Rural Living November-December 2014

F E

R E

November/December 2014

www.ruralliving.co.nz

PETROL

RE-VOLT

pages 57-58

FIT FOR THE

SADDLE

pages 6-7

THERE’S NO

DUCKING

RESPONSIBILITY page 18

RURAL | FASHION | BEAUTY | FOOD | gARDEN | HOME | MOTORINg | TRAVEL www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 1

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

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

n CHRISTMAS Waiuku Christmas Display and Santa’s Wonderland November 29-December 24, 10am-8pm, Waiuku Memorial Town Hall, Cnr Queen St & Victoria Ave, Waiuku The excitement is mounting and the advent calendars will soon be making an appearance.

As is the custom, the Waiuku township has a wonderful line up of attractions to keep the festive energy buzzing. Marvel at the stunning Waiuku Christmas Display with its dazzling lights, snowy scenes and, of course, Santa’s Wonderland! Catch a glimpse of a variety of animated Santas as they perform songs, dance, or a cheeky trick or two.

For a real vintage experience, catch the Glenbrook Vintage Railway (GVR) Steam Train each Sunday while the display is open.

And on Santa Day, December 14, all children will be able to ride the GVR Santa Train and check out the display for FREE! See christmasdisplay.co.nz and railfan.org.nz.

Christmas Lights House December 1-3 & 10-24, 8.30pm10pm, Christmas Lights House, 25 Prospect Terrace, Pukekohe The lights are sparkling at Christmas Lights House to again raise funds for the Pukekohe Volunteer Fire Brigade. A live Santa will be on-site from Dec 10-24 (weather permitting) and people can show their support by contributing to donation buckets.

And due to popular demand, the Find the Peg competition will be back – keep eyes peeled! For more info, call Craig on 021 36 36 82.

Pukekohe Christmas at the Races December 3, 1pm, Pukekohe Park Raceway, Manukau Rd, Pukekohe Gallop into the festive mood at Pukekohe Park complete with all the trimmings! Enjoy live music and a visit from Santa, competition giveaways as well as losing ticket draws whilst being in the thick of all the exciting thoroughbred action happening on the track. Of course, there will be a feast to remember and indulgent Christmas offerings to whet the appetite. The more, the merrier – so bring friends, family and colleagues!

Waiuku’s Magical Christmas Parade December 13, 11am-3pm, Queen St, Waiuku Dance away with the Christmas Parade in Waiuku as it embraces a classic theme of ‘Movies and Music’. Festivities begin in the town centre at 11.30am with a huge market, family entertainment, live music and carnival fun for the children.

Don’t miss visiting Santa’s Wonderland at Waiuku Memorial Town Hall.

The parade starts at 2pm but arrive early for the best viewing spots! A rain date has been set for Sunday, December 14 at 2pm for the parade only.

Contact the Waiuku Business & Development Association phone 09 235 6231 for more info.

Huntly Christmas Parade December 13, 10am-4pm, Huntly Domain, Wight St, Huntly Gather at Huntly Domain alongside the picturesque Hakanoa Lake and witness the town come to life! Featuring many new children’s attractions such as chair-o-planes rides, mini jeeps, clowns, bouncy castle, a human gyroscope, slippery pole boxing and pony rides, this event will be buzzing with food and drink stalls and entertainment. The popular float parade will start at 1pm with cash prizes to be won.

Paeroa Christmas Lights Show December 13-31 (closed on Christmas Day), 8.30pm-10pm, Puke Rd, Paeroa Whip down to Paeroa to see Paeroa’s historical Maritime Park transform into a magical wonderland in the lead-up to

Christmas. Young and old will be captivated by the star attraction – a brilliant light show coordinated with music. Meander through the Enchanted Forest and watch children playing in the snow.

With a best-dressed Christmas tree competition, Santa Sweet Shop, a real-life Santa, as well as performing dogs from the SPCA, it’s bound to bring joy to the hearts of many. Entry is $5 per child, $7 per adult or $20 per family; proceeds go towards the continued operation of the Paeroa Maritime Museum, wharf and facilities. Email paeroachristmas@live.com or find Paeroa Christmas Lights Show on Facebook.

Hamilton Christmas Parade December 14, 3pm, Anglesea St, Hamilton Trot out to see Hamilton’s annual Christmas Parade in all its finery! A must-do Christmas experience, this festival fantasy will see more than 80 colourful floats and groups parade down central Hamilton. Be entertained by crazy characters, lively marching bands, spectacular character balloons, and, of course, the star of the show:

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

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Stephanie Alderlieste Craig Ashby

David Powell

Community Calendar

From the team at Barfoot & Thompson.

Santa Claus! The parade will begin at the cnr of Rostrevor and Anglesea Streets, and will continue for 1.2km.

The Great Gatsby Christmas Revue December 14, 8pm-10.30pm, Clarence St Theatre, Clarence St, Hamilton Flap away with the glitz and glamour of a famous fictional Gatsby party for one night. A cabaret show recreating the hedonism portrayed in American novel The Great Gatsby, this sumptuous affair will feature comedy, singing and dancing reminiscent of the 1920s when everyone was ‘Makin’ Whoopee’, dancing the Charleston or doing the Boogie Woogie. So book a party, dress up and celebrate!

Santa Day December 14, trains depart 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3.30pm, Glenbrook Vintage Railway, Glenbrook Station Rd, Glenbrook While Santa, baby, may slip a sable under the tree for the lady of the house, boys of all ages would surely prefer a train set, particularly one as well set up as the Glenbrook Vintage Railway!

Come December 14, Santa will be steaming in to deliver fun for the family. What’s more, children will ride the train for FREE when accompanied by their parent(s). While waiting for Santa, youngsters can enjoy jigger rides, refreshments, and the railway’s play train. Adult tickets, $20; for more info visit railfan.org.nz.

Christmas at the Proms December 17, 11am-1pm, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Drive, Papakura Breeze into the festive spirit by marrying both Christmas and

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the Last Night of the Proms – synonymous with some of the world’s best loved songs and heaped with fun and frivolity.

Music from these two greats is combined into a gala concert, filled with famous Christmas carols and songs. Flag-waving classics such as Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory, and Rule Britannia, Gilbert and Sullivan numbers, peppered with a few skits, and even an appearance from Santa Claus are on the programme. Music, madness, magic and mayhem makes for a marvellous way to celebrate the holiday season. Tickets are $32 and include lunch with the artists after the show. Visit daytimeconcerts.co.nz for more information.

n showtime Sue Nicholson – Answers from the Other Side December 10, 7pm–9:30pm, Off Broadway Theatre, 41 Elliot Street, Papakura Looking to break through to the other side? As part of her latest tour, psychic medium Sue Nicholson is popping into Papakura to ‘lift local spirits’.

An entertaining and engaging show is promised by organisers with Sue set to communicate with worlds beyond. See the events page at suenicholson. co.nz for tickets ($55) or more information. Please note: this is an R16 event.

n fairs Gypsy Fair Original December 13-14, 9am-5pm, St Aidan’s Reserve, Great South Road, Takanini December 20-21, 9am-5pm, Pukekohe Intermediate School, Queen Street, Pukekohe

Hunter Kevin Utatao Lim Scott McElhinney TrudyKatrina Boyce Riedel

Life’s not always fair, but when it comes to finding crafty bargains and enjoying lively entertainment, fortune’s favour awaits in our region this summer. Once again this annual event is set to attract visitors from throughout the region as tarot and palm reading, tattooing and piercing, arts, crafts, live music and more take centre stage. So load up the house truck, caravan or car and let all roads lead to the Gypsy Fair.

See gypsyfair.co.nz for details; admission FREE of charge.

n motorsport GT Radial Thunder in the Park December 5-7, 10am-6pm, Pukekohe Park Raceway, 222-250 Manukau Road Thunder, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah... thunder! Holden or Ford, Hatfield or McCoy, petrolheads of any persuasion are sure to enjoy being thunderstruck as GT Radial Thunder in the Park rolls into town. Featuring favourite classes of racing, it’s set to test the mettle of drivers around every turn of the Pukekohe Park Raceway circuit. So, get that motor running, your engines on and ride down the highway to Thunder in the Park! See thunderinthepark.com for details or tickets.

400kw Holden V8 Race Drive Experience & 400kw Holden V8 Hot Laps December 11-12, 10am-5pm, AND December 11-13, 10.30am-4.30pm, Pukekohe Park Raceway, 222-250 Manukau Road How’s life in the fastlane? Well, it’ll surely make you lose your mind, unless you’re buckled up and ready for a ride of a lifetime at Pukekohe Park Raceway!

Various options available.

n markets Pukekohe Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Massey St, Pukekohe Pokeno Market Every Sunday, 9am-4pm, main street, Pokeno Crafty Cows Market – Pokeno Second Sunday of each month, 10am-1pm, Pokeno Town Hall Awhitu Country Market Last Sunday of each month, 10am-2pm, Matakawau Hall, Awhitu Rd, Awhitu Peninsula Clevedon Village Market Every Sunday, 9am-2pm, Clevedon Community Centre, 1 Papakura-Clevedon Rd, Clevedon Clevedon Farmers Market Every Sunday, 8.30am-12pm, Clevedon Showgrounds, Monument Rd, Clevedon Pine Harbour Fresh Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Pine Harbour Marina, Jack Lachlan Dr, Beachlands Alfriston Country Market First Saturday of each month except January, 8.30am-12.30pm December, normally 9am-12pm, Alfriston Community Hall, Mill Road, Alfriston

Pine Harbour Fresh Market

Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 3

Hunter Graeme Utatao Trudy Willson Boyce Graeme Sue Willson McCardle Sue McCardle

covershot

“Ho, Ho, Ho and a Merry Christmas to all,” says our cover Santa aka Andrew Burt from Papakura who is a regular Santa Claus at Westfield Manukau shopping centre. Andrew, a St John paramedic in ‘real’ life found his Father Christmas calling when he answered a Lowie Recruitment advertisement seeking suitable Santa figures. “That was five years ago and I just love bringing a bit of festive cheer to the scores of children who come visiting.

Every child is different and their expectations vary. But, happily, nearly all love to talk with Santa!”

Photo Wayne Martin

From the editor...

I am sure readers have plenty to do in the countdown to Christmas and I’m no different but I couldn’t resist a quick trip to Sydney for a bit of festive shopping – so good!

While there I also visited the Australian Botanic Garden, Mt Annan, south west of Sydney near Camden.

Beautiful as they were, these gardens were very different from our own lush parks where greenery and, flowers beds abound. And they were certainly a far cry from Pukekohe’s fertile soils and thriving horticulture.

With the exception of the Connections Garden, where the luxuriant growth (including annuals, perennials, Australian natives and even punga) reflected the time put into watering, most areas appeared dry and windswept.

With plenty of picnic areas and open space, nevertheless the ground was parched even

though summer had not officially arrived.

Temperatures hovered around 27°C and 30°C and the fire danger rating was high.

Nevertheless, I so enjoyed examining many new (to me) plants which showed distinctive features and colours – red waratah, green bottle brush, yellow native frangipani and dusty/rusty bull banksia (to give them their common names).

But enough of foreign lands; here at home, it’s been all about show jumping, the Clevedon A&P show, orphan ducklings, toy-making, and, of course, Christmas prep.

On the latter, we have compiled a list of helpful hints to guide readers through this busy time and to make the most of the festive spirit.

And on that note, here’s hoping this holiday season will give you all time to rest, relax and still enjoy the fruits of the

earth so that everyone emerges from festivities re-invigorated and in a positive frame of mind.

While many farmers and lifestylers will still need to attend to their land and their stock, it’s important to take time out too.

So, to you all, a joyous Christmas, a revitalising New Year and throughout take care to remain safe and at peace with yourselves and others.

Blessings, health and happiness to you all.

Cheers,

Helen Perry Editor

inside RURAL A Publication of Times House Publishing Ltd

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

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

Page 2-3 Community Calendar sponsored by Barfoot & Thompson

Page 6-7 Saddle fitter rides proud

Page 8 Brian’s Diary

Page 10-11 Over the Gate with Karen Shields, district commissioner of the Franklin District Pony Club

Page 12 Bumpkin Banter

Page 17 Law clear on rural fence rules

Page 18 Going quackers over fluffy orphans

Page 24-25 Focus on Clevedon A&P Show

4 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

Be prepared for Christmas – hints and tips pages 33-35

Living Page 32 Toymaker hammers home traditional skills

Page 36 Reay’s Diary – a city girl’s perspective

Page 38-39 Family warms to Sunshine Coast holiday

Page 41 Alister Gates zings

Page 42-43 Chef’s journey a culinary hotpot

Page 47 Who’s the ‘Pokeno’ behind Queen’s Redoubt?

Page 57-58 A Volt out of the blue www.ruralliving.co.nz

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Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 5

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Fit for the saddle!

According to Sir Winston Churchill, no hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle. Someone after the great statesman’s own heart is horsewoman, Eleanor Whitehead, who is blazing a trail in the niche profession of saddle fitting as ANGELA KEMP discovered.

HRF

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Both fate and destiny appear to have played their part in the career path of Patumahoe local, Eleanor Whitehead.

The first and only person in New Zealand to gain the American Certification in Saddle Fitting qualification, Eleanor was privileged to study in the USA with Mike Scott, by all accounts the saddle fitter equivalent to the Horse Whisperer.

But her involvement with horses started long before; when she was just a child.

“It was a Sunday afternoon when my mother drove into a rather elegant looking driveway in Clevedon.

“She stopped to ask whether the owners would give her daughters riding lessons, despite the fact that there was no signage to illustrate that they did such a thing.

“As it turned out, Susan Humphries, who was working with John Cottle [legendary tri-

ple Olympian show jumper] at this beautiful facility, agreed to teach us.

“I don’t think my mother ever envisioned that both her girls would aspire to gain a career out of the sport she was about to introduce us to.”

Eleanor was given her first pony when she was nine and her passion was well and truly ignited.

Her formative years were spent eventing and competing up to open pony club level.

“One of the most valuable lessons I have learnt is that I love taking lessons and now dislike competition,” she says.

“I am a competitive person by nature but my love for horses is hampered only when competition becomes a factor.

“I love to learn with and about them all the time which is what led me to train in saddle fitting.”

To gain her qualification Eleanor made two trips to the

CLOSED SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2014.

53840-V12

6 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

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Eleanor Whitehead putting her saddle-fitting skill to good use.

USA in 2013 to Mike Scott’s facility which she had to manage round her job at Pukekohe’s Saddlery Warehouse.

She also completed 30 case studies and was required to do a significant amount of time in a volunteer capacity with Riding for the Disabled.

Furthermore she had to undertake a 45-hour internship with a qualified saddler.

In her case, this was Ross Pryor of Tuakau whose father founded Pryor’s Saddlery business, once one of the largest saddle makers in the southern hemisphere.

Since qualifying earlier his year, Eleanor’s business, EquiFit has boomed and she is already looking to expand her services to include her own saddlery brand.

She says she is living the dream of working with horses although she originally aspired to a career in the food industry.

But life’s pathway took her on a three-year OE during which she travelled extensively through Europe, the Middle East and Africa. www.ruralliving.co.nz

“On my return I studied for a business management degree at Otago University and afterwards worked as operations manager for a boutique coffee-roasting company in Auckland.”

Despite loving her job, Eleanor found the daily commute from Pukekohe to the city increasingly hard.

Then, when she fell asleep at the wheel and drove her car into the central barrier she knew the time had come to make a lifestyle change that would include horses in the mix.

First she helped her father at his farm in Patamuhoe, fencing and landscaping the 24 acres to turn it into a horse facility.

Then she gained a job at the Saddlery Warehouse in Pukekohe where she became manager.

By that time she had acquired Chip, a commanding 15.3hh percheron, station-bred pinto gelding.

Difficulty in getting help fitting him with a saddle started Eleanor on her journey to gain her qualification.

Photos Paul Vettoretti

“I was coming across a lot of people who were having similar problems but it was only after my partner Alex bought me a DVD by Mike Scott that I decided to do something about it.”

Eleanor persuaded Scott to tailor the course to facilitate the time and financial constraints she faced being in New Zealand.

“The course included 250 hours of course work and practical time which I completed both under his personal guidance in the US and extramurally here in NZ. “Part of the course was practicing leatherwork which I did with Ross Pryor. He was unbelievably generous with his time and extremely patient with me.

His help was invaluable.”

Now, Eleanor does fittings at her Patumahoe facility and travels throughout Franklin and further afield.

Her work has taken her to clients in Morrinsville, North Shore and Kumeu and she has had enquiries from as far away as Tauranga.

“Saddle fit is one of the most crucial aspects to get right for every equestrian.

“It is a massive contributing factor to whether the horse and rider are comfortable in their work.”

Eleanor’s qualification requires her to have a thorough understanding of equine anatomy so she can analyse how a horse moves, be it naturally because of conformational issues or due to impairment from an outside source.

Much of her course work revolved around the sound principals of saddle fitting, addressing issues with the saddle, correcting them or assisting the client to find a suitable saddle.

As one of only two certified fitters outside the US (the other one is in Canada), her tutor Mike Scott is proud of his longdistance pupil.

“Eleanor completed all the requirements successfully and in the highest regard,” he says.

“She will no doubt be an asset to the equine community in New Zealand.”

Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 7

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Tra ic woes rural worry shear our 12 rather large sheep.

Also involved was the trimming of feet and drenching. They are a lot happier without all that wool which has convinced me to go back to twice a year shearing and not leave the sheep as I have done this year.

Having sold my two steers some six months ago I needed to buy two yearlings to fatten up over the next year or so.

The stock agent, whom I have used for the past 15 years, Robin Ayre from PGG Wrightson, always makes good purchases on our behalf and supplies quality stock.

This year they were more expensive than previously but when selling them down the track, good quality fetches the best return.

Paddocks I have locked up for hay are looking great at the moment and, weather permitting, I would like to have haymaking finished before Christmas – fingers crossed!

I mentioned last month that Willowbrook (my mare) has had her foal, a filly by Auckland Reactor and already I have had some names submitted.

One I really like is Brookland, but I would love to have lots more to choose from, so put on you thinking caps and email me your suggestions at briann@ times.co.nz. Or mail me at the office.

The chosen name will win its creator a dinner for two at Alexandra Park, so have a go.

See you next month.

Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

COUNTRY LAD At the time of writing, it seemed to me that spring had been going on forever.

Although the rain has been great for grass growth and the gardens, this growth has also been due to mostly warm weather. But that wind – it’s been a real curse.

We have had lots of branches breaking off our trees, plus the leaves on many of our deciduous trees have been ripped away. This has created another task – having to rake them up and dump them in the compost heap.

Anyway, we can’t wait for summer. Our swimming pool looks inviting until one feels the water which is very, very cold.

So, roll on the warmer temperatures.

When we shifted to this property nearly 20 years ago a big plus was being only five minutes from the motorway. But things have changed so much over time.

In those days we never had traffic congestion at the Drury on-ramp. Now, this occurs most weekdays, from 6am, and the motorway is congested for most

Good quality steers will fetch the best price.

of the journey north to the city.

With all the new housing developments at Pokeno, Tuakau, Pukekohe, Karaka and beyond, this will continue to worsen.

In light of this, the decision to electrify the railway only as far as Papakura, must be seen as a major blunder by someone who lives in the city and doesn’t have to face the daily traffic struggle.

There is also a need for train

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I estimate that each new house could see another two cars added to the already jampacked highway and, when one considers the thousands of new homes being planned, mounting traffic will surely bring things to a standstill.

Back to Rural Living. We recently called on Mr Clip to

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Merry Christmas It is with gladsome voice that the team at Rural living celebrates the upcoming Christmas season and warmly thanks everyone – readers and advertisers – for their wonderful support this past year. we have been privileged to bring you a mix of rural tidings and urban news, blending the significant with the lighthearted in the hope of giving you all a great read. we have appreciated the confidence shown in our magazine by advertisers and have taken great pleasure in showcasing their products and services. now, as 2014 draws to an end, we wish you all a blessed Christmas and safe holidays.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 9

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Over

the gate

With

Karen Shields

It’s often said: never work with children or animals. However, since taking up the reins of the Franklin District Pony Club (FDPC) a few months back, Karen Shields has been committed to providing the best for both. This month Rural Living spoke with this undaunted horsewoman... over the gate.

Where were you raised, and when did you move to the Franklin region?

I was born in Auckland, one of five children from Dutch parents who immigrated to New Zealand, although I also lived in Holland for a year when I was 10. I moved from Bucklands Beach to Franklin in 1998. We bought 50 acres in Hunua so we could get out of the suburbs and give our children a taste of the country lifestyle.

Did you grow up around horses, were you a member of a pony club and do you still ride?

I come from a very ‘non-horsey’ family, but I managed to get my own horse when I was 16. My father then felt he was missing out when my mum, sister and I spent so much time with horses so he started buying racehorses and set up a small breeding concern at our farm in Orere Point in the early 1980s.

I helped school the racehorses occasionally and was groom for the yearlings when they went to the sales.

I was a member of Howick Pony Club, which was located where Papakura Athletic Club is now. I still ride and compete in dressage up to level 2, as well as riding for pleasure. I also instruct.

Do you keep ponies or horses at home; any other animals?

We have three horses and three grazers with a stable, yard and big arena. We also have 25 heifers as lawn mowers.

In short, what benefits do pony clubs provide to members?

They provide an opportunity for members (aged 5-25 years) to sit and achieve certificates from D up to A and H level, which involves all aspects of riding and looking after horses – we define this as horsemastership.

Also, they provide the Equine Training Coaches Programme from D to A level as a qualification for coaches and also the Equine Certificate Programme for those without horses to gain knowledge.

Pony club is designed to deliver fun for everyone. From those riding for pleasure, to the most competitive, we provide games, dressage, showjumping, camps and adventures so all can participate. Most of our famous eventing riders – including Mark Todd and Andrew Nicholson – came from pony clubs so they certainly do help develop competitive riders.

Why did you put your hat in the ring for the role of FDPC district commissioner?

I was asked to take on the role as no one else was available or had the time and energy.

Everyone at FDPC is a volunteer dedicated to ensuring pony club continues to provide great equine experiences well into the 21st century.

I love pony club and so does my daughter, so I hope that any leadership I can provide will enable all members in the district to have positive, fun adventures with their ponies and to achieve their equine dreams and goals.

Generally, what does your role entail and what have you accomplished so far?

My role involves trying to

10 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

ensure branches are supported in organising certificates and providing help with any concerns or complaints. Also, helping plan events, so members can experience games, ribbon day, showjumping, dressage and team ODEs [one day events] in a relaxed competition. While I do enjoy it, trying to keep pony club a positive experience and everyone happy can be quite a challenge at times!

So far, I have started to streamline the process for gaining C+ and B certificates so it is more cost effective, uncomplicated and examined at a consistent standard.

Also, ensuring all our FDPC team competitions are run to a high standard and the rules are clear and transparent is important. My next goal is to improve links and communication with branch members so everyone understands the work FDPC does.

How has membership fared considering the growth of urban areas?

I am not sure about the exact number of members, but sadly the number of pony clubs has declined due to the spread of Auckland City. The biggest challenge is availability of land, as some branches exist only because of the generosity of farmers.

I like to think pony clubs will survive for the next 100 years.

Some have expanded by developing adult riding clubs, which seems to provide more support for all activities; I am sure this will help membership increase.

Improving links with Equestrian Sports NZ and trying to make rules more consistent between them and the New

Karen Shields

Zealand Pony Club Association could also help. And providing more grassroots competitions, so new riders can experience events is an important step.

As you’re also GM at the Counties Manukau Kindergarten Association, how do you find the time to attend to your duties at FDPC? I am very busy, but I feel it’s important to give back to our community. As a trained and registered teacher, I enjoy coaching at pony club and I love working with children and horses. I get a great buzz from seeing children have fun with www.ruralliving.co.nz

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If you could grow any crop or raise any animal imaginable, what and why?

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

My mum, who died when I was only 20. I miss talking to her about family and my children.

Nelson Mandela. He was such a great leader and whatever challenges he faced, he never lost hope and never gave up on achieving his goals.

Hillary Clinton. She has had to reinvent herself several times, and when things did not go well, she always appeared strong and in control. I need to know her secrets especially when making tough decisions!

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Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 11

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

What a bale up!

An Englishman, a Kiwi and a Samoan walked into a field...

And from there developed quite a joke, indeed, as we watched these three unlikely (although likeable) lads trying to bale our neighbour’s hay.

Enlisted to help out, the willing – yet witless – trio were on the ball but way off the bale, as they set about stacking up their troubles and offering a masterclass in the wrong way to make

hay while the sun shines.

They may have given it a good, old college try, but I guess city schools obviously don’t teach such subjects and the lads soon found themselves coming a cropper.

Full marks for trying though, boys. However, now that you’re back in the city, by all means stop by, but just for a visit next time, okay?

– Local lifestyler

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12 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

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By Dr Paul Eason BVM&S MANZCVS (Surgery & Critical Care) As the temperatures rise and summer advances, so do flea and tick populations.

One of the biggest myths surrounding fleas is that your pet will always be scratching if they have them.

We find fleas on many pets that come to see us with no obvious signs of itchy skin, often to the shock of their owners!

In addition, if your pet has fleas and comes inside your house, you will have flea populations inhabiting the carpet, rugs and even your bed!

We are excited that a number of new products are available which will make your battle with fleas much easier. These products are only available from veterinary clinics, and of course are backed by support and veterinary advice.

Bravecto® and Nexgard® are new oral flea and tick treatments for dogs, with Bravecto providing 12-week protection in one chewable tablet. Bravecto® is suitable for all breeds of dogs and puppies and is approved for use with breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs.

Activyl is a new, highly effective, topical flea treatment for cats and dogs available in single and multi-dose packs.

For cats, Broadline® is a new topical product that controls fleas, ticks, biting lice, plus internal parasites (roundworms, hookworks and tapeworms) in one, easy to use application. No more trying to get your cat to swallow worm pills! Broadline can be used on kittens from eight weeks of age.

Successful flea control programmes are more involved than just applying a product.

The majority (95%) of the flea population (eggs, pupae, larvae) are not found on your pet, but instead inhabit the pet’s environment, e.g. carpet, bedding and outside, under plants and houses.

Fleas do not jump from animal to animal. All new flea infestations come from fleas that have developed in the environment with adult fleas laying an egg about once every 30 minutes.

The pupae form of the flea is very hardy and can survive for years in the environment,

attaching itself to carpet fibres and other substrates. Fleas biting today will have come from female fleas laying eggs 3-8 weeks ago.

To overcome flea infestations, every cat and dog in the household must be treated, and the environment as well. Use flea bombs or specific household sprays. It is also important to vacuum and wash pet bedding weekly.

It takes several weeks to eliminate fleas and ongoing treatment of pets should be maintained even after flea numbers have subsided.

Miss one flea treatment and fleas lay eggs and re-infest the environment. Stray animals or untreated visiting pets will infest the environment when they drop fleas from their fur.

Fleas have been around a long time, and will always be there to annoy us and our pets. But, now, there are quality products that can make the job of eliminating this pesky pest much easier than it used to be.

Seek sound veterinary advice about developing a good flea control programme that works for you and your pets.

DECEMBER Check List ■■ Horses: Does your horse have the whites of its eyes (sclera) showing? Our harsh summer sun puts their eyes at risk of sun-induced cancer.

Protect them with a quality face mask. The competition season is also heating up, so strangles vaccinations should now be up to date.

■■ Pets: Have you protected your pets against worms?

Unless the flea product you’re using has an allwormer incorporated in it, you need to worm your pets every three months with a separate worming product.

It’s also a good idea to pick up poo from your dog regularly as worm eggs can survive in the environment and cause re-infestations.

■■ Farm: Lambs and calves should be drenched for worms every 4-6 weeks over summer, depending on the product used. During the Barbers Pole season (January to April), ensure a product with persistent activity is used to ensure sheep are not re-infected between treatments.

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Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 13

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Scientists set the moo-d Most mothers will tell you that raising young can be tough work, leaving little energy (ironically) to engage in romantic affairs.

However, after seven years of study and $40m, scientists have confirmed why cows are less likely to generate a new future for their species, even if they have found the energy to enjoy... a load of bull!

An expert in the field of reproductive biology, Victoria University researcher, Dr Janet Pitman, says cows worldwide have become less fertile, partly due to farmers selecting them especially for high yields of milk. “This creates a population of cows that use much of their energy to produce milk, with the consequence that less energy is directed towards fertility,� she says. “What we are asking cows to do – in a conventional, New

Zealand pastoral-based system – is demanding, so it’s not surprising that fertility suffers.�

In fact, Dr Pitman says the amount of energy a dairy cow uses to produce milk each day is equivalent to completing a

“We will then be able to immerse cow eggs in these artificial conditions and treat them with factors they might be exposed to during lactation, to see how well they cope. “Measuring the differences in the eggs exposed to various environments will help provide indicators of infertility in dairy cows and may help us design better diets,� she says.

The research follows on from previous studies which suggested eggs exposed to very low amino acid environments were quite fragile and couldn’t cope with the presence of additional stressors, such as non-esterified fatty acids and low cholesterol levels. “We’re [now] thinking about what we can feed dairy cows that may help increase amino acid composition in follicular fluid and allow the egg to better cope with other stressors.�

mountainous portion of the Tour de France; now that’s one tough cycle for anyone!

To address this problem, Victoria University is attempting to recreate a natural fertility environment in the laboratory.

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14 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

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RURAL

Great outdoor reads What great outdoors we have! From rugged bush to placid lakes and tempestuous shores, we really do have a wonderful world right on our doorstep. With summer here, Rural Living takes a closer look at some top titles designed to showcase the treasures our country offers and to provide the right advice when stepping out.

Ken Ring’s NZ Weather Almanac 2015 Mother Nature can be a fickle mistress. Thankfully, Ken ‘the Moon Man’ Ring is on hand, once again, to predict Ms Nature’s moods before they happen!

From day-per-page forecasts, to planting guides, this handy guide includes rain potential, and likely wind activity in a convenient table form. Graphs are designed to assist farmers predict severe weather and, ideal for fishermen, it has daily best bite times and a rating of fishing conditions from poor to excellent. While Ken’s method of predicting weather by the moon’s cycles may be controversial, there’s no doubting his high strike rate for reliability.

Ken Ring’s New Zealand Weather Almanac 2015 by Ken Ring. Published by Random House. RRP $50.00.

The Heart of Hunting While taking home a prize buck may be ‘deer’ to a hunter’s heart, beyond the thrill of the hunt lies the pleasure of the experience.

In The Heart of Hunting, Greig Caigou and Matt Winter set out to capture the complete experience and explain its attractions.

As Greig explains: “The writing attempts to portray the very

Win! The Heart of Hunting AND Ken Ring’s NZ Weather Almanac 2015 As a special summer treat, Rural Living has copies of BOTH these titles to give to one lucky reader! To be in to win this duo of title (RRP almost $100), simply complete the form under the competitions section at ruralliving.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close December 31, 2014. Winner notified by phone or email. real and raw experience of the final act of hunting, as well as the other elements that get us out into the hills – wilderness values, free living within the rhythm of nature, seeing and appreciating animals, comradeship, shared adventure and individual hardiness.�

The Heart of Hunting, by Greig Caigou and Matt Winter.

Published by Craig Potton.

RRP $49.99.

Tramping – a New Zealand History Strolling down the avenue is not what Kiwis mean by a good walk! Since the early days of our nation, intrepid New Zealanders have put their best feet forward

exploring our wonderful, but often rugged, great outdoors.

In Tramping, authors Shaun Barnett and Chris Maclean explain how our love affair with a good old walk has evolved.

From the development of statesponsored tracks and huts in the 19th century, to the establishment of tramping clubs and, more recently, battles to protect national parks, this book explores why we like to hike!

Tramping – a New Zealand History, by Shaun Barnett and Chris Maclean. Published by Craig Potton. RRP $69.99.

Open Season While it may seem like an angler’s life revolves around

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tales of the one that got away, according to Dave Witherow, getting away from it all is precisely what fishing is all about!

Of course, catching a few fish does enter into it, but this Kiwi pastime is just as much about men (and women) seeking escape from domesticity and daily cares to find their inner hunter-gatherers. In Open Season, Dave takes readers on a tour of some of New Zealand’s finest (often most secluded) fishing spots; however, readers also meet the crafty characters who frequent them.

Open Season – An Angler’s Life in New Zealand, by Dave Witherow.

Published by Random House. RRP $39.99.

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RURAL

building fences

By John Sheddan, partner in Bannermans Lawyers in gore Robert Frost wrote ‘Good fences make good neighbours’ which is a great maxim by which you should farm.

Issues and accidents arising from wandering, escaped and uncontrolled stock result in many disputes, accidents and deaths in rural New Zealand.

If you are the landowner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your stock is constrained by an adequate fence.

The legalities of what constitutes an adequate fence, and the rights and responsibilities of landowners, can be found in the Fencing Act 1978.

The Act provides that an ‘adequate fence’ is a fence that, as to its nature, condition, and state of repair, is reasonably satisfactory for the purpose that it serves or is intended to serve.

adeQUaTe fenCIng The legislation details examples of what is adequate in terms of a fence in urban and rural environments. In rural areas an adequate fence includes: n A substantial 7–8 wire fence, properly strained, battened, with up to 2 strands barbed wire, with durable posts of timber, metal or concrete, evenly spaced and not more than 5 metres apart n A substantial 9–10 wire fence, properly strained, with or without battens, with durable posts of timber, metal or

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concrete, evenly spaced and not more than 5 metres apart n A substantial prefabricated (netting) fence, properly strained, with or without battens, with durable posts of timber, metal or concrete, evenly spaced and not more than 5 metres apart, and n A close and sufficient live (electrified) fence.

The onus is on the landowner to show that the fence is reasonable for the purposes for which it’s being used and the stock that it’s containing.

If you’re farming or grazing large or boisterous animals it’s your responsibility to ensure that the fencing is sufficient for the type of stock you’re carrying.

For example, deer fences are quite different from fences designed to keep in sheep.

ReCenT Cases Recent disputes which have arisen over fences include: n A subdividing land owner claiming that a 2-wire electric fence, with widely spaced posts, was sufficient for the purposes of a boundary fence between a dairy operation and a sheep farm n The adequacy of an historic fence over which one landowner’s heifer calf kept escaping, although it was suitable for the other’s grazing sheep, and n A patch of virtually impassable gorse being viewed by one owner as an adequate boundary fence.

landowneR ResponsIbIlITy Landowners must be aware of their liabilities and responsibilities. Escaping stock affects not only neighbouring landowners but also the wider community if the escaped stock cause an accident that results in damage or a fatality.

Farm owners and lifestyle block owners are well advised to ensure that they hold public liability insurance to protect against the liabilities arising from these risks. Large animals, which are frequently darkly coloured, don’t mix well with high speed vehicles travelling on empty dark roads.

The Fencing Act states that in the country, as in town, the cost for an adequate boundary fence is to be shared equally by the two landowners. If, however, one neighbour requires a fence in excess of what is adequate it would be the responsibility of that neighbour to meet the costs above what would be reasonable.

The process for building a new fence would usually be by agreement with your neighbour. You both need to agree on the type of fence and its materials, its location (if the exact location of the boundary is an issue), who is going to do the work and how the costs are to be divided.

If you and your neighbour can’t agree or one of you refuses to contribute, the legislation provides that one of you can

John Sheddan

serve a Fencing Act Notice to the other detailing the requirements and details of the proposed fence and the starting date for construction.

The landowner being served with the notice, in turn, has the right to oppose the proposed fence if they believe the current fence is adequate or, if they disagree with the type of fence proposed, to offer a counterproposal as to a suitable fence.

If you’re proposing to issue, or you receive, a Fencing Act Notice talk with your lawyer as if you don’t issue a notice correctly the Notice may be void. If you don’t respond to a Notice in a timely manner this may result in a default acceptance of the new fence.

If, however, neither of you can reach agreement then there’s the option to apply to the court for an order for the construction of a fence. This is a last resort, and a somewhat drastic and expensive outcome for good neighbour relations.

If the fence looks like being a problem, get in touch with your lawyer early on.

– This article was first published in Fineprint (Summer 2014), the client newsletter of NZ LAW Limited member firms. Bannermans is a member of NZ LAW.

Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 17

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Quackers or a little daffy?

By Rebecca Glover Many of us like to take things easier with advancing years, and cats are no different.

Having long terrorised the local rabbit population, my oldest cat has taken to heart the adage ‘old age and treachery always triumph over youth and skill’, and has trained his younger housemates to do the job for him.

He is now content (mostly) to have his fresh bunny brought to him, even if that means he has to miss out on the tastiest portion – the yummy, crunchy head.

However, he hasn’t lost the urge to hunt – if you could call his present method of wildlife retrieval ‘hunting’. Stealing baby birds from their groundnesting parents is hardly sport so he carefully brings ’em in alive to his aghast mother.

Showing no interest in eating them, he deposits them at my feet with obvious pleasure.

Which is how I became a duckling wrangler.

One morning last spring, duckling No. 1 magically appeared, paddling flat out around our swimming pool.

Conscious of my woeful track record of raising baby birds, I bundled it off to Robyn’s Nest.

I should have waited. A few days later Mr Cat proudly presented another duckling, solving the mystery of how its sibling came to have its early morning dip. Similarly undamaged, it too went to Robyn’s

Photo supplied

to be reunited with its bro.

Some months later, I collected the two from Robyn, now grown and able to fly, which they did promptly as soon as I released them on to our pond.

Fast forward a year – another spring; another duckling.

I like to think the latest present from pussy is the offspring of one of last year’s.

It emerged indignant but unharmed from his jaws, quite a feat considering he had to carry it 400 metres from pond to house. One can only admire his skill while wishing he hadn’t robbed the nest at all.

This time I thought I’d try rearing my ‘gift’ myself. So far that hasn’t proved difficult.

The duckling is doing very

well on soaked chook pellets.

Helpful information on the web advised adding boiled egg and a little eggshell, reminiscent of my mother’s legendary egg sandwiches. And after every meal the duckling has a swim in a trough – the normal rules about not swimming on a full stomach apparently don’t apply to ducks.

When not fossicking for frog porridge, it paddles around furiously, plunging its little head under, splashing itself with water, which runs....like water off a duck’s back. Really!

The rest of the time the duckling lives, ironically, in a cat cage. With little space to stretch its legs, I was concerned it might not be strong enough

to deal with the outside world when the time came.

I need not have worried. One day when I went to remove it at the end of its swim, I wasn’t quick enough. With a frantic flap it flopped out of the trough and flat-footed it for freedom.

I can handle being outrun by day-old calves, but being given the bird by something that’s only designed to waddle is surprisingly undignified.

Clearly those little legs hadn’t atrophied and were in fact startlingly efficient, having me ducking and diving all over the place trying to grab the escapee.

With the Other Half called upon to help, the sight of two large humans trying to rugby tackle something that would fit in the palm of a hand – or should, if only we could lay a hand on it – had a distinct Monty Python feel.

Luck and desperation finally won out and the miscreant was returned to its cage.

The addition of a fence around the trough, rather like a trampoline safety net, means swimming sessions can continue.

Evidently appreciating its aquatic experience, the duckling stands upright mid-swim, flapping its miniature wings and cheeping – maybe calling for the next hapless family member to be brought in by the cat courier.

And guess what I found standing bewildered on the kitchen floor one morning two weeks later? Yep, another duckling.....

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exclusive to October 2014 style may vary depending onon Terms and Conditions: These offers are exclusive to Andrew Andrew Simms Simms Botany Botany until until 31st 30 December 2014ororwhile whilestocks stockslast. last.All Allaccessories accessoriesshown shownare areexamples examplesonly; only;the theactual actual style may vary depending availability. ORC deposit as as stated stated and weekly payments over availability.

ORC is is $750 for Petrol and $990 for Diesel vehicles. ORC includes a full tank of fuel, registration and WOF. Finance offers are based on deposit over 60 60 months as in the the fifigures stated. stated at an interest interest rate rate of of 11.9%.

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lIMb defoRMITIes In foals

By Neil Houston, Veterinary Associates As newborn foals start stretching their legs some limbs are unfortunately not quite straight.

The most common problem is the occurrence of angular limb deformities where the leg is bent either outwards or inwards when observed from the front (valgus or varus deformity or “bow-legged” foal).

The most common cause of angular limb deformity in newborn foals is joint laxity.

Present to some degree at birth, exercise usually increases muscle tone and tightens joints sufficiently to correct the deformity and there is a great improvement in the first few days.

However, if joint laxity is severe and goes on uncorrected, it can result in damage to the bone growth plates and progressive worsening of the deformity as the foal grows.

To prevent this, it is important to confine the mare and foal, preferably in a box.

Foals with moderate to severe deviation due to joint laxity, premature foals with immature carpal bones, and foals that don’t respond to conservative management quickly, usually require splinting or casting.

This may be for a brief period only.

Another treatment that is often successful is the use of glue-on shoes. These are spe-

Paint and pinto ponies can be expected to catch the eye but it was riders and mounts in fancy dress that attracted looks and laughs at the recent Auckland Show Jumping Grand Prix held at Pukekohe A & P Showgrounds.

Photographer PAUL VETTORETTI was there.

Local pony clubs from Franklin and nearby districts turned out in force for a variety of classes, one of which was the evening class sponsored by Rural Living.

This included a fancy dress element although riders were there to showcase their equestrian skills and compete for prizes as in other classes.

cially made for the purpose and accentuate what hoof trimming would do by causing one side of the foal’s hoof to strike the ground first.

This has the effect of pulling the hoof, and hence leg, back into a straighter position.

Where the degree of deviation or deformity is severe, or previous treatments have not been successful, a surgical treatment is often required.

This consists most commonly of a periosteal strip. This is a routine surgical procedure and should not normally have any untoward side effects or affect future athletic endeavours in any way.

Other surgical repairs are the insertion of a staple, or screw and figure eight wire across the joint growth plate.

Although they are more involved, the outcome is often still successful.

As with most things, early intervention is best when treating foals’ limb deformities.

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20 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

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22 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

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Joyce pays while Waikato sprays With $3m on the table, from Crown Entity, Callaghan Innovation, the FoodWaikato spray drying facility is set to receive a feast of funds.

At full capacity, the facility at Waikato Innovation Park could generate a cash injection to the tune of $38.25m per year for the economy, says Science and Innovation Minister, Steven Joyce.

“Additional export revenues [are] expected to flow back into the economy due to this initiative,” he says, “expansion will help more companies take innovations to new export markets and the Government reach its goal of doubling the value of exports by 2025.”

Producing dried product

from ingredients including milk products, fruit and vegetables, FoodWaikato produces powders for use in cosmetic, nutraceutical and food applications.

The $3m from Callaghan is expected to provide a kick-start to $5m expansion plans.

Waikato Innovation Park CEO, Stuart Gordon, echoes the minister’s optimism.

“If we’re successful, we will see our customers using the spray dryer to scale up to commercial production, take new products to market and become successful enough to build their own commercial factories. Our role is to facilitate as many companies as we can through this process.”

scent to beat bad car odours Odour-free farm vehicles, which have seen their fair share of animals and vegetable matter, might have been wishful thinking in the past but not anymore, it seems.

Now, if the inside of your ute smells like cow pats, try putting a Scents – Under The Seat sachet under the driving seat.

Making good scents, this new style of air freshener has been created to combat even the most pervading of bad smells, and can also be used in the home, office, caravan, motor home or boat where it helps to eliminate musty smells and cooking odours.

Place the sachet anywhere in a vehicle, such as an ash-tray, or under a seat (hence the name) and the scent will combat cigarette odours and other lingering smells such as stale sweat, doggy smells and musty upholstery.

There are five refreshing fragrances – vanilla, wildberry, strawberry, ocean breeze and citrus zest – and once opened the scented beads release a steady flow of scent for several weeks.

Scents – Under The Seat air fresheners are available from automotive outlets and selected DIY retailers throughout New Zealand.

Photo supplied

Tool Talk

hedge trimming

Follow these handy tips from STIHL SHOP PUKEKOHE to get the best from your hedgetrimmer.

Keep it sharp Sounds obvious, but keep trimmer blades sharp. If cut branch tips appear ragged or light in colour, or if blades snag on a hedge, the blades are probably blunt and tearing rather than slicing material. Take the trimmer to the STIHL SHOP PUKEKOHE for professional sharpening.

Keep it Lubricated

the blades sticking together.

Keep it in order Cut the vertical sides of a hedge first, using an upward and downward sweeping motion. Move forwards along the hedge as you work.

When trimming the top of a hedge, angle the blades at around 10° to the horizontal and use a horizontal scything motion to sweep cut material off the hedge.

A blade that is not clean and lubricated is inefficient. As a hedge is trimmed, sap builds Keep it safe Always use recommended up on the blades, setting hard and follike glue.

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Clevedon A&P CALL 0508 46 25 46 TO ARRANGE YOUR TOUR

The sun shone bright on this year’s Clevedon Agricultural and Pastoral Show making it a great day out for locals and visitors. Between the show rings and competitions; the entertainment and the food, photographer JANET KEELING captured all the fun of the A&P fair.

This is the perfect time to adopt a pet.

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24 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

Phone 09 292 8348 6 Main Road, Clevedon www.barfoot.co.nz

Hollier Greig Ltd Land & Engineering Surveyors Rural, Commercial, Residential PO Box 1149, Newmarket, Auckland 09 524 2723 • 021 727 067

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Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 25

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Ag Days

As spring gingerly nudges into summer Rural Living says goodbye to the last of school calf club, Ag and country days for 2014.

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26 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

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Rattling council cage Auckland Council has been requested by the RNZSPCA to refuse resource consent for Craddock Farms’ colony cage chicken farm in Patumahoe.

The farm – which would see 310,000 hens in cages – would be a “backward step,” says Ric Odom, the society’s CEO. “This flies in the face of current trends towards improved animal welfare in commercial farming. Colony cages confine each bird to an area about the size of a piece of A4 paper, which means it can’t exhibit normal behaviours and do much except eat and lay eggs.”

Mr Odom adds the society supports free-range layer and broiler farms through its Blue Tick programme. Farms are assessed by third party auditors

with spot checks to ensure they meet set welfare standards.

He believes the proposed Craddock Farms’ facility would not meet these standards.

However, Michael Brooks – executive director of the Egg Producers Federation (EPF) – says colonies are widely regarded as “the way forward for the industry” as battery cages are removed by law.

“There was unanimous support for colony farms in the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee report which accompanied the 2012 Layer Hens Code of Welfare,” he says. “It said colony systems offer equal, if not superior, standards of animal welfare to production systems such as barn and free-range.”

The SPCA is represented on NAWAC which decides codes of welfare for various animals.

“The claim that colony farming prevents birds from normal behaviours is out of line with scientific and veterinary advice.

Colonies are recognised as offering world-leading standards of welfare,” he says.

The new facility will comprise colonies of up to 60 hens, adds Stefan Craddock, from Craddock Farms. “[This] is an ideal number, with areas for nesting, scratching, pecking and perching. Food and water are always available and a belt removes waste.

“Eggs remain affordable sources of protein. By building such a facility we can maintain affordability for a vast majority.”

Win! For the Love of Horses For the Wilson Sisters, there’s a lot more to equines than just horsing around!

Beyond the trials of pony club and competitive showjumping, For the Love of Horses is a story about their efforts to train wild Kaimanawa horses.

Interestingly, this year, 2014 Equidays in Hamilton partnered with Kaimanawa Heritage Horses to launch New Zealand’s first wild horse challenge, in which Kelly and her

sisters Vicki and Mandy took part. They were among 25 leading horse trainers competing to highlight the talent and trainability of wild Kaimanawas.

But long before this, it was seeing beyond these magnificent horses’ fiery eyes and shaggy coats to the potential beneath, that set the sisters on their quest to develop future champions.

■■ For the Love of Horses: The Wilson Sisters’ Inspiring Journey to Save New Zealand’s

Wild Horses, by Kelly Wilson.

Published by Random House NZ. RRP $45.

RURAL

arabian spectacle worth a look The Arabian Spectacular has been showcasing Arab horses for 23 years, and on Sunday, December 14 the show promises to live up to its name once again.

This year, incorporating the North Island Arabian Championship, the Clevedon show has attracted entries from around the North Island, with horses travelling from as far as Wellington to compete under the discerning eye of Australian panel judge Glenys Lilley, from NSW. From this year’s cute foals to majestic stallions, the show promises to be a feast for the eyes with both led and ridden classes.

Not to be missed are the colourful costume classes, in which the horses evoke their desert origins in truly spectacular style.

The show will be held at the Auckland Manukau Dressage Group grounds in Monument Road, Clevedon, beside the A&P showgrounds.

With the farmers’ market right next door, it’s a great opportunity to indulge in a little shopping while enjoying a rare sight of some of the world’s most beautiful horses gathering together to show off their breed and strut their stuff.

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Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 27

RURAL �������������������������������������������������������������������������������

where there’s a

weed

weed THeRe’s a way!

New fast-growing grass varieties that produce more seeds and are resistant to drought, pests, grazing and disease may be a farmer’s (or a cow’s) dream but, it seems, there’s no keeping a good weed down.

The development of more resilient grasses could be the making of the next generation of invasive weeds warns an international team of researchers.

As the global demand for dairy and beef escalates, farmers are increasingly seeking ways to reap greater productivity from their pastures. But in making grass varieties more robust, they are prone to becoming a problem for the environment.

New varieties can invade adjacent areas and spread across the landscape, or they

can interbreed with existing invasive weeds, according to Professor of Plant Biosecurity at Lincoln University and lead researcher at the Bio-Protection Research Centre, Philip Hulme.

Co-author of a research paper published in the latest edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), Professor Hulme says pasture species such as ryegrass and fescue may not strike people as major threats to the environment but they are regarded by the Department of Conservation as environmental weeds.

Subsequently, the research team has highlighted the need for government and agribusiness to ensure pasture plants are of low risk to the environment.

“Pasture is big business in

REPORT

New Zealand and a large part of our economic success arises from agribusiness developing ever more productive or persistent varieties,” says Professor Hulme.

“As a result there is a clear conflict between economic and conservation outcomes.”

Agribusinesses do not have to assess the environmental risk of new grass varieties they develop, but Professor Hulme believes some consideration in this area might prevent the future spread of environmental weeds.

“It is probably those varieties being developed for greater persistence, especially in the face of drought, that might pose the greatest future risk,” he says.

The researchers have made four biosecurity recommendations for government, industry and researchers: governments should manage a list of prohibited varieties (not just species); develop a weed risk assessment; ensure rapid detection and control of invasive weeds; and develop an industry-pays system.

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Ditch and his rodent dog, Fox, searching a commercial truck prior to departure to Motutapu Island.

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keepIng THe HaURakI gUlf pesT-fRee THIs sUMMeR

By Ditch Keeling Coastal Pest Solutions Ltd Biosecurity, it’s a word that immediately conjures up images of men in white overalls spraying insecticide or stern-looking officials searching bags at the airport.

Over the past 20 or so years I have worked in the little known realm of animal biosecurity which focuses on halting the spread of invasive animals into new areas and developing plans to deal with any new outbreaks of animals not known in New Zealand.

For many years this work entailed learning how to identify when something new, e.g. a rat or a stoat, has made its way to one of our pest-free islands, and then removing it as quickly as possible.

The learning process has been fascinating and ultimately successful with New Zealand now ranked as among the best in the world when it comes to halting the spread of invasive species and maintaining pest-free environments as sanctuaries for our most threatened species.

Along this journey of discovery one point has been continually made clear to us; we simply cannot achieve these

great results without the support and vigilance of the public.

Several very good examples of this can be found in cases such as the rainbow lorikeet outbreak in Auckland in the late 90s when a few members of the public persistently reported seeing a number of loud and exotic parrots.

It took some serious investigation to work out that a large number of these birds had been deliberately bred and released.

Two years later we had caught more than 150 lorikeets and averted yet another costly pest being added to our flock.

In the case of the first ever rat to make it to Motuora Island in the Hauraki Gulf, we had detection gear all over the island.

However, at the end of the day, we only discovered it was there because a couple of visiting school girls reported finding what they believed were rat footprints in the sand.

They were right. Three weeks later we caught a record 550 gram Norway rat.

With summer fast approaching it’s time to remind everyone about the very real threat that invasive species pose to so many of our pest-free islands, and that these beasties seldom arrive under their own steam.

The most common means of pests reaching new locations in the gulf are private and commercial vessels carrying freight.

These pests can be anything from Argentine ants in a box of food to rainbow skinks in amongst potted plants heading to someone’s bach.

Both of these species have had a devastating effect wherever they have established so it’s well worth spending what small amount of time it takes to check your gear prior to heading to any island location.

Auckland Council has spearheaded the fantastic Treasure Islands campaign over the past few years which is aimed at raising biosecurity awareness in the Hauraki Gulf and providing a real platform for all citizens to play an active part in maintaining pest-free locations.

For more information visit this excellent website: treasureislands.co.nz.

Remember, folks, vigilance is the key. Check all your gear for ‘stowaways’ and report anything you think may be of importance; it’s our land and environment to protect.

Please help us to provide the advice you require by sending all pest animal questions to info@ coastalpestsolutions.co.nz.

To place your order or to request more information email: sales@trapinator.co.nz or phone: 09 579 408953417-v2

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Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 29

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Spring clean those rods and reels We are now nearing the end of spring with summer on the doorstep so it’s time to take stock of rods and reels and consider what repairs or replacements are required.

Fishing rods and reels require the normal care required by any precision equipment. Rods with ferrules need checking for tightness. If too tight they need lubricating with candle grease.

Check the reel seat for cracks.

Modern, mass-produced rods with non metal rod seats which are cracked, should be replaced with a new rod. Undo the ring(s) and remove the reel and check for corrosion and clean away any build-up from under the reel feet.

No matter how careful you are with your rods, they can be knocked and bumped causing damage to the guides and the rod itself.

Check rod tip, guides and rod for cracks. The guide feet should be firmly bound to the rod.

Consider having loose guides rebound by a rod repairer.

Some modern rods feature guide rings made from hard materials such as ceramic

agate and aluminium oxide inserts. Missing inserts cannot be repaired. The whole guide needs to be replaced.

No matter what material the guides are made of, they need to be inspected for nicks, cracks or tracks. Good light and a magnifying glass may be required.

Damaged guides need replacing. Damaged rod guides will damage your braid or monofilament (nylon) which will guarantee lost fish.

Reels should be visually checked. Ensure all screws are tight and caps in place. During storage, reel drags should be backed off.

Sun, salt and sand are harsh on monofilament (nylon) and braid. They should be replaced at the beginning of each season along with a reel service to ensure that all internal mechanisms are clean and operational – warranty on your reel will be voided if there is corrosion in the reel. Test your reel drags for smoothness.

If you do not know how to do any of the above, call into your tackle shop with your rod and reel and ask for some help.

FISHING & HUNTING SPECIALISTS

AMMO

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Do your reels need a service, have jerky drags or noisy bearings?

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Bring them into Hamills Fishing and Hunting Manukau.

30 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

Find us on Facebook

R100045-V7

43B Cavendish Dr, Manukau. P: 09 974 2672.

E: manukau@hamillsnz.co.nz W: hamillsonline.co.nz/HAMILLS+STORES/Manukau

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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Win!

living

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit www.ruralliving.co.nz click on the competitions link then fill in the form. One entry per person/ email address; entries close December 31, 2014. Winner notified by phone or email.

WIN! Jenny’s Kitchen Tamarind Chutney pack Since securing a Cuisine Artisan Food Award in 2012, Jenny Stewart’s chutney has delighted taste buds throughout New Zealand. Although Jenny’s now retired, the flavours she created have developed a cult following. Available as medium, hot and extra hot, in 300ml jars, Jenny’s Kitchen Tamarind Chutney has a tamarind base, sugar and a secret blend of spices – no artificial colours and preservatives! Fabulous with cheese, meat and more, it can add flavour to dips or even perfect those pizzas. Jenny’s Kitchen Tamarind Chutney (300ml RRP $14), available from Farro Fresh and specialty food stores but Rural Living has a gift pack of the hot and medium chutneys to give away – enter the draw!

WIN! New Wild Appetite Sauces Go crazy this summer with Wild Appetite’s three new saucy products created to celebrate the company’s 25th birthday. Ideal for entertaining and Christmas giving, the range includes two new salad dressings – Mango, Lemongrass & Chilli (an Asian-style dressing made from tropical mango with a blend of lemongrass and chilli) and Blood Orange & Poppy Seeds (vibrant in colour and flavour). Then there’s the Whisky Spare Rib BBQ Sauce, a bold, whisky-based sauce blended with mild chilli. New Zealand-made and free from artificial flavours and colours, they provide every reason to be creative with salads, meats and casseroles. Wild Appetite’s new 250ml summer dressings & sauce (RRP $12.99); available from participating supermarkets, specialty food stores and gift stores but Rural Living has a gift pack of all three to give away.

WIN! Eye contour cream from Plantae

Win! A $300 Stubbies prize pack Every girl may be crazy about a sharp dressed man, but a man who has legs and knows how to show them is ‘tops’ in the ladies’ books too! As Movember comes to an end and blokes dispose of their facial manifestations of manliness, thanks to Stubbies’ prize pack (worth $300) it’s possible to retain a little masculine dignity. This pack includes shorts, t-shirts, a beer holder and vouchers. Complete the form at ruralliving.co.nz to be in to win, and see page 37 for more about Stubbies’ support of Movember.

Summertime is the most revitalising and infectious time of the year when we all want to look our best. And what better way to reduce fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes than with Plantae’s Avocado Pear Eye Contour Cream? Light and gel-like, this nutritious cream is a blend of cold pressed NZ-grown avocado pear and borage seed oils, polyphenol-dense blackcurrant leaf and pine bark complex and works to condition and protect the delicate skin around the eye. Not tested on animals, Plantae Avocado Pear Eye Contour Cream RRP $40.90 (15g) available at selected pharmacies and health food stores. Rural Living also has a tube of this beauty must-have up for grabs.

Win! A copy of Dairy Nation Since the early days, New Zealand has been a dairy nation, shaping the way we live and acting as the backbone to our economy. In Dairy Nation – the story of dairy farming in New Zealand, author Nicola McCloy examines the affect of dairy on our culture, business and national identity. From small, labour intensive farms, to major, mechanised, high-tech operations, this book leads readers through busts and booms, with lively text and colourful photographs. Dairy Nation by Nicola McCloy. Published by Random House NZ. RRP $49.99. www.ruralliving.co.nz

WIN! Summer Make-Up Collection Rural Living cast its line into the goody pond and came up with a summer make-up bonus for one lucky reader. It includes three L’Oreal shadow duos, a natureluxe mousse mascara (black), a Maybelline FIT Me pressed powder (honey beige), three Nicole

by O.P.I nail polishes and a lipstick (iced latte) – just the thing for a little party time magic.

Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 31

LIVING �������������������������������������������������������������������������������

Pioneer-ing artisan’s special Christmas graft Wooden it be lovely to give something a little different this Christmas?

While today’s children could be forgiven for thinking Santa works at The Warehouse, it seems there are still some who prefer that hands-on touch, as JON RAWLINSON recently learnt.

It can be all too easy to hand over plastic credit cards for plastic toys at chain stores during the Christmas shopping splurge.

However, when it comes to giving gifts which will last the distance, Murray Neale believes the best things take time.

Hammering away in Pioneer Wooden Toys’ workshop on Paerata Road for almost 30 years, Murray has crafted toys for generations of children, including his own.

“We have two daughters, Debbie and Caryn, and four granddaughters – Jessica (18), Tegan (15), Allanah (12) and the youngest, Ella, is eight. I’ve made all sorts of stuff for them over the years, rocking horses, cribs and playhouses, but Ella wants a laptop this Christmas, so I’m not going to be making her one of those!” Murray laughs.

Margaret (his wife) adds: “When the girls were younger they’d go down to the workshop and say ‘I need this, Poppa!’ As they grow up, children want computers, Xboxes, iPads and tablets, but there’s something extra special about one-of-a-kind, handcrafted toys.”

Despite valuable space on children’s Christmas lists now being taken up by more high-tech toys, Murray says parents are still on the lookout for

The real Santa’s helper – Murray Neale in his toy grotto. gifts well built and designed to last.

“Our motto is: ‘A toy today [is] an heirloom tomorrow’; there are still people who want to give their children the same types of toys they had when they were young.

“We’re also finding toys are being brought back in – ones which have been enjoyed already – to be done up for second and even third generations of children.”

Living in Franklin for the last 50 years, the Neales settled on a 10 acre block on Paerata Road almost 30 years ago.

It was around that time that Murray, a carpenter/cabinetmaker and former farmer, turned his talents to toy making.

“We bought the business from an old fellow in Papatoetoe who worked

32 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

from his garage and only made four types of toy. We thought it’d be an interesting thing to do,” he explains.

“Today, we have about 50 toys in our range, from old fashioned rocking horses, trucks, push trolleys and dolls’ houses, to tables and chairs, and we also make toys to order.”

In addition to toys, Murray produces made to order tables, cabinets and other such items for a number of preschools.

While his profession may be unusual, he believes the secret to the success of the business is simple: “It’s because we make things that last! It’s pretty uncommon [to hand make toys and cabinetry] these days; most things are machinemade. You can buy some things at

Photo Wayne Martin

The Warehouse cheaper, but they probably won’t last a long time.

Because I’ve personally made our toys, I can be sure the quality is as it should be,” he says.

Although still busy in the workshop, particularly at Christmas, Murray has limited his hours as age catches up with him.

“In the early days, we used to do 40-50 craft shows a year and up until a few years ago I was working long hours,” he says.

“I’ve worked for myself pretty near all my life, and I love my job.

Unfortunately, once older people go, so do their skills. But I’m hopeful we can find someone who’s ready and willing to learn the trade so we can carry on making children happy, now and into the future.” www.ruralliving.co.nz

Making Christmas merry

At Rural Living we want everyone to have a Christmas to remember – for all the good things it brings. However, we know the pressures of family work, shopping and even making the dollars stretch can put pressure on families at a time which should be filled with love and joy. So here are just a few ideas to help make festive preparations a little easier, a little different and a little tastier!

Mango Magic!

e st unheard of in the average Kiwi hom A generation ago, mangoes were almo o mang of s slice fresh While rite. a favou – today this tropical fruit has become is their own or with ice cream, this fruit are a real summer refresher served on salad n praw to hed matc salsa o Mang s. suited to both sweet and savoury dishe y eaten the Thai way – fresh with stick or barbecued chicken is a winner and rice – it’s an unforgettable dessert.

Remember when choosing mangoes to avoid a completely green fruit as they may not ripen to the rosy yellow/orange blush you’ll want before using. Also, the skin should give a little when gently pressed; it shouldn’t be mushy or bruised. Ripe mangoes exude a deliciously fragrant aroma.

umpkin! p r u o y p u n n’t Peca ble but you do t the festive ta

stuff on p it up. Cu bles are hot e way to pum Roast vegeta so here’s on at wedges fl ll or s fa be to cu uash riety) in to va r want your sq he ot r of oil and a (o s t pumpkin of tablespoon le up co a one butternu to coat. with dukkah. Toss roasting pan en a dash of ev and place in fuls , er nd pp ha o pe ing – salt, and add tw little season e from oven ndful of ov ha m a Re s, . ie es rr ut be min d cran Roast for 30 fresh or drie ightly, return o handfuls of Stir around sl y. ne ho d of pecans, tw ui liq golden. and 1/2 tblsp minutes until sage leaves further 10-15 r fo ok co d to oven an

Keeping kiddies under the Christmas spell busy as the christmas countdown races on, from out ren child keep to parents will want to under their feet. Here’s two easy ways make they est sugg . pied keep them occu phs, their own gift tags using old photogra or ers stick r, pape news ngs, magazine cutti s and plain card adorned with petals, leave same twigs – the ideas are endless. in the for way they could also make name cards , cards ting gree old using the yuletide table , star paints, coloured pens, glitter and glue stickers, ribbon and more.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Don’t be a turkey….failure!

These days many store-bought turke ys come with a thermometer and cooking instru ctions included but for those lucky enough to have their own turkey from down on the farm there are a few tips to ensure it comes out of the oven deliciously succulent. Before placing bird in the oven, mix some slightly softened butte r with herbs; make a slit in the skin near the breast and slide mixture under. The breast area is often the first to dry out and this will help keep it moist and flavoursome. Baste turkey with pan juices every 20-25 minutes during cooking. Final ly, when removing from the oven allow your turke y to rest – at least 30 minutes. Cover with a tea towel and foil while it is doing so.

Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 33

Jamie needs your help Jamie needs your help this Christmas this Christmas

Jamie needs your help this Christmas

incomes. Or where parents may need guidance with developing One four New Zealand One in in four New Zealand childrenchildren life and parenting skills. Children who need you to bring them hope this Christmas. now lives lives inin desperate need. need. now desperate incomes. Or where parents may need guidance with developing

CHRiSTMAS

Be prepared!

T’was the night before Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring not even a mouse…. Well, it would be lovely but in most homes Christmas Eve is all go! However, this Countdown Calendar might help keep festive stress at bay.

• December 3: Send out Christmas cards if this is a tradition. Make a list of gift recipients and write down against individual names any gifts already purchased. As the month progresses, and you reach your gift target for any one person, stop buying and ‘tick’ as done.

• December 20-22: Shop for stage one of Christmas Day requirements – drinks, non-perishables, paper plates, napkins, Christmas crackers; perhaps items such as potatoes, too. Somewhere in this band of days take time out for the family. Attend a Christmas show or concert if possible – keep up the spirit of Christmas.

incomes. Or where parents may need guidance with developing life and parenting skills. Children who need you to bring them hope this Christmas.

That’s why we ask you to help by donating to our Christmas One in four New Zealand children At The Salvation Army, we see the impact of poverty on children Appeal. life parenting skills.

Children need you by to bring them to our Christmas Yourand donation will provide That’s whymuch-needed we ask who yousupportive to help donating like Jamie every day. Children going without basic necessities— serviceshope this such as lifeChristmas. skills programmes and budgeting advice, Atnow The Salvation we see the impact of poverty on children lives Army, in desperate need.

Youranddonation missing out on meals, without a proper bed, warm clothes and a as well as emergencyAppeal. help with food clothing. will provide much-needed supportive

likehealthy Jamie every day. Children going without basic necessities— home. services asbylife skills programmes and budgeting advice, That’s why we ask yousuch to help donating to our Christmas At The Salvation Army, wewithout see the impact of poverty on children missing out on meals, a proper bed, warm clothes and aYour provide supportive PleaseAppeal. donate today and give hopemuch-needed tohelp those asdonation well aswill emergency with food and clothing.

But it’s not about statistics or who’s to blame. It’s about children like Jamie every day. Children going without basic necessities— services such as life skills programmes and budgeting advice, healthy home.are struggling to cope with the pressures of low who need it most. whose families missing out on meals, without a proper bed, warm clothes and a as well as emergency help with food and clothing.

Or where parents may need guidance with developing One in four New Zealand children incomes. healthy home. life and parenting skills. Children who need you to bring them Please Christmas. donate today and give hope to those But it’s not about statistics who’s blame. It’s need. about childrenhope this nowor lives into desperate Please donate today and give hope to those But it’s families not aboutare statistics or who’stotocope blame.with It’s about children charges (standard apply) whose struggling the pressures of lowThat’s who most. why we askneed you to help it by donating to our Christmas At The Salvation Army, we see the impact of poverty on children whose families are struggling to cope with the pressures of low who Appeal. needYour itdonation most.will provide much-needed supportive

Txt HOPE to 4411

and we’ll call you back for your donation like Jamie every day. Children going without basic necessities— missing out on meals, without a proper bed, warm clothes and a healthy home.

services such as life skills programmes and budgeting advice, as well as emergency help with food and clothing.

But it’s not about statistics or who’s to blame. It’s about children whose families are struggling to cope with the pressures of low

Please donate today and give hope to those who need it most.

HOPE 4411 and we’ll call you back for your donation

TSA SUN 583502

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Txt to 4411 and callHOPE you back for your donation or atwe’ll salvationarmy.org.nz and we’ll call you back for your donation (standard charges apply)

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CHRISTMAS APPEAL

CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS APPEAL APPEAL CHRISTMAS

Give in-store at

or at salvationarmy.org.nz

APPEAL

or at salvationarmy.org.nz

• December 15-16: With shops a little quieter after the weekend, purchase gift wrapping and spend an hour or two wrapping gifts in hand. This task always takes longer than expected.

Spend a little time each day wrapping a gift or two.

• December 6-7: Decorate the Christmas tree and the house.

Organise children to help – this will keep them busy and relieve you of a task.

• December 23: Check that cameras and batteries are charged – you won’t want to miss out on those special festive photos. Complete last minute shopping – don’t leave it until Christmas Eve as many shops now close early on that night.

• December 9 -12: Primary school children are still in class so get on to gift buying in peace. Take advantage of one-day sales and store specials but don’t buy unnecessarily. Stick to the budget.

• December 24: One day to go – pick up fresh greens, fruit and perishables early; be back before the rush.

Vacuum; freshen bathrooms but don’t go overboard with the cleaning.

By the end of Christmas Day you may have to start again. Set table, fill ice trays, put drinks in the fridge. Defrost large meat cuts, prepare desserts and even peel roasties last thing – avoid these big jobs on Christmas Day.

The effect of cancer, and cancer treatment, on appearance can really lower spirits. That’s why we started our Look Good Feel Better workshops over 25 years ago. The work we do helps women, men and teens with cancer improve the way they look, making a real difference to their confidence, strength and positivity.

Cancer, and cancer treatment, has many impacts. One that The support we give is free to anyone with any cancer, and can be very hard to bear is the toll it takes on appearance. extends right across New Zealand. We rely entirely on donations, At Look Good Feel Better we’ve been supporting women, men the generosity of the cosmetics industry and the work of volunteers and teens with cancer for over 25 years. Our workshops help people with cancer improve the way they look, letting them to keep going. By donating to Look Good Feel Better you help face the world with more confidence, strength and positivity. make a difference to people’s lives when they need it most.

The support we give is free to anyone with any cancer, and And every dollar goes directly to running the workshops. extends right across New Zealand. We rely entirely on donations, Please visit our website or find us on Facebook to contribute. the generosity of the cosmetics industry and the work of

www.lgfb.co.nz

LookGoodFeelBetterNZ

volunteers to keep going. By donating to Look Good Feel Better you help bring smiles to faces that have had little to smile about.

And every dollar goes directly to running the workshops.

Please visit our website or find us on Facebook to contribute. www.lgfb.co.nz

LookGoodFeelBetterNZ

34 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

• December 13-14: Bake Christmas biscuits if this is your forte. Also write down your Christmas lunch or dinner schedule and shopping list. Look out for meat specials – buy while cheaper and freeze. Wash windows.

• December 25: Wake up and enjoy.

Yes, there will still be a few tasks but make use of willing hands. When everything is done you can relax and let it all come together however it may! www.ruralliving.co.nz

CHRiSTMAS

be sUre cHristMas blossoMs! pretty in pink

Deck the halls with boughs of holly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or lilies or roses or any other summer stunner from the Flower & gift Shoppe, Pukeohe. Ingrid and her talented team have a fabulous array of flowers to fill your vases or for gift giving â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ask about table arrangements (festive designs a specialty), pot plants or celebration bouquets. Daily delivery Franklin- Auckland.

Also â&#x20AC;&#x201C; small gifts, scented candles, sweet-filled baskets, gorgeous umbrellas and more. Interflora/Teleflora service for delivery worldwide.

94 king st, pukekohe. ph 09 238 7691 ďŹ&#x201A;owergiftshop@slingshot.co.nz

Flower & Gift Shoppe

You know she is going to look pretty in pink this Christmas. This stunning 18ct white and rose gold Pink and White Diamond ring has a total diamond weight of 0.48ct and is only $2995. Summer will never be the same! stonz Jewellers, 63 king street, pukekohe 09 238 9075, shop 7a, 30 Walters road, takanini village, takanini 09 298 9166

look WHoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s HaMMing it Up!

stoneX saves tiMe!

Christmas bells are ringing in the orders for festive hams from Tuakau Quality Meats.

Smoked, cooked or ready for the oven â&#x20AC;&#x201C; full of flavour, low on water content and big enough to feed the family! Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t delay, place your order now â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Jim and his team are at the block ready to deliver. Also ask about our famous sausages, lamb, beef and pork roasts for the holiday feasting and our own cured and smoked bacon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; home kill service available too. Tuakau Quality Meats â&#x20AC;&#x201C; specialising in traditional meat and meat products â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a cut above the rest and service with a smile! tuakau Quality Meats, 23 george st, tuakau. ph 09 236 8732

A stitch in time may save nine, but a visit to Stonex will save many more! Able to quickly and thoroughly check and repair watches (and jewellery), water test and reseal or change batteries while we wait, the team at Stonex Jewellers are ones to watch! Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, with Christmas almost here, their Papakura store has more than one would expect, with a gorgeous range of unique jewellery designs and gifts also available. stonex Jewellers, 175 great south rd, papakura. ph 09 296 6136

SJ STONEX JEWELLERS

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Christmas GiďŹ&#x2026; Guide Be] OQ`S b`SOac`S b`]dS ]T QS`O[WQ ^]ba b`SSa O\R aV`cPa UO`RS\ ]`\O[S\ba O\R ac^^ZWSa bVOb eWZZ [OYS ^S`TSQb 1V`Wab[Oa UWTba # " 5`SOb A]cbV @]OR 2`c`g >V]\S ' '& "'" =^S\ % ROga R60023

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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living

Picking up festive pace Reay Neben is a Franklin resident and publisher of Rural Living.

CITY LASS After visiting the recent Franklin Hospice garden Ramble I have decided to never talk about my garden again! Although the weather was horrid on the Saturday, the gardens we visited still looked wonderful.

The rain set in the afternoon so we decided to head for home and continue the ramble the next day.

This proved a good idea because we woke up to sunshine. The gardens varied hugely so there was certainly plenty to like whatever your taste.

When we arrived home I was straight into our garden with a whole lot of plans to make changes.

What a busy month November is for our family with seven birthdays and, of course, the start of Christmas outings. I was able to buy most of my gifts locally from stores such as Interiors.etc, Little Paris and For Home & Kitchen. Then it was new shoes from Footloose, nails at Queen Nails, eat at Town Mouse and Cafe Kaos plus goodies from Alberts and Whisk also on the agenda.

Monarch’s whitebait fritters are a draw card any time of the week but on Fridays, on my way home from Pilates with Jo, I call in at the Red Shed to

The Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble showcased many fabulous planting ideas. pick up a coffee for Christine, my wonderful gardener. The Red Shed also makes the best date scones ever. It may sound as if I am a social butterfly but, really, it is only because it’s November that I am so very busy.

Of course, while out shopping for birthday gifts, I realised that I needed to start thinking about Christmas presents too.

This year we are celebrating our family Christmas on December 20. This feels so strange but as the family grows there comes other commitments for the children and their partners so we thought we would make it easy by celebrating early.

I know when Christmas Day comes, I will miss everyone being about but maybe we will do something with friends or go somewhere special for lunch.

Christmas shopping in Pukekohe and other local towns rather than attempting the motorway even though I travel it every day as far as Highbrook.

This month, Brian and I were invited to dinner at Soul Bar in at the Viaduct. It’s a fabulous restaurant that always delivers but the ordeal of getting into the city by 7pm was ridiculous. Even though it was a Wednesday night, it was very wet and it even hailed so, as you can imagine, the motorway was diabolical.

It is hard to believe that this is our last issue of Rural Living before Christmas and how quickly this year seems to have gone. Maybe that’s a sign of age but even the young are saying that last Christmas doesn’t seem to be 11 months ago.

That one experience was enough to ensure I will be doing most of my

On that note, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and please support our local businesses as they are the people that make all our small towns interesting places to be.

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36 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

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living

Hair from the heart Natasha Harris from Alberts Hair Salon, Pukekohe brings you the latest in hair trends.

Today I churned through the many topics in my mind and in the end I decided to just write from the heart; after all, it is Christmas!

So here you go…

Happiness,

Photos supplied

Movember’s caught shorts!

If clothes really do maketh the man, then Stubbies maketh the Kiwi bloke.

So, in support of Movember – designed to raise money for men’s health – Stubbies is inviting men to flash their legs, all in a good cause, of course!

Wendy Clark from Stubbies says for every pair of Stubbies sold during November, $1 will be donated to the cause.

He’s got legs?

“We are proud to be sponsors of Movember for a second year. Last year, we raised $4,340 and we hope to top that. Our team will also be donning their shorts to compete in special challenges around Auckland,” she says.

To discover exactly what our blokes are made of, Stubbies is on the hunt for New Zealand’s Real Man. Simply upload photos of the ‘perfect’ specimen of Kiwi manliness to the Stubbies Facebook page (facebook. com/stubbiesNZ).

“We are passionate about men’s health and, if we can encourage Kiwi blokes to get their legs out this summer, then that’s even better!”

Apart from ultimate bragging rights, the most favoured photo will win a pack including a V8 SuperTourers Hot Lap, Stubbies clothing, Hard Yakka steel cap boots and a barbecue.

So, if you see a bro’ sporting a mo’, be sure to show your support!

More information about Movember is available at nz.movember. com; and even when the month is over, donations are still gratefully received.

We all have so many facets to our lives – we work, we love, and we give. Our family and friends are never more prolific than they are at this time of the year; they give us strength and bring us joy. We laugh and they share our experiences ultimately creating memories for our minds to reflect on and to make us smile. This is happiness.

I am blessed to have the love and support of a wonderful family who constantly reward me with their crazy, busy, ‘keeping it real’ attitude which I love. Without family, life would be a lot quieter but far less complete.

Treasure your family and friends this Christmas and shower them with love (not just presents). My fondest memories are times spent together, not the gifts I received.

We should do our best to ensure that any part we play in someone else’s life is as happy and positive as it can be.

The most special thing about happiness is that it is contagious.

Being happy doesn’t mean that everything is perfect, it means deciding to look beyond the imperfections and just do our best.

I want to take this opportunity to thank my second family, the fantastic team at Alberts for being the best and working hard every day to maintain an environment we all love being a part of.

From my family to yours MERRY CHRISTMAS!

– Natasha, Alberts Hair Salon

Natasha and the Angels at Alberts.

And don’t forget to visit our competitions page in this issue of Rural Living for a chance to win a $300 Stubbies prize pack, including shorts, t-shirts, a beer holder and vouchers!

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Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 37

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Family warms to Sunshine Coast New Zealanders are well known for their love of the Queensland coastline – a warm escape when Aotearoa shivers or a taste of the tropics in summer. Here SARAH ELLIS recommends the Sunshine Coast, namely Noosa for a family holiday.

We just love the Sunshine Coast! And when the New Zealand winter sinks its teeth in about June or July we start looking for that family holiday in the sun to break up the winter blues.

Earlier this year we thought about a Pacific Island break but with two active girls we needed more to do than lie in the sun. So, our ‘go to place’ was Australia’s Sunshine Coast as it offered warm weather, great shopping and a ton of places to visit.

This time we stayed at the RACV Resort Noosa, just a two-minute drive from Noosa Junction and a five-minute drive from iconic Hastings Street.

Without a doubt it was the best place we have stayed as a family.

Clockwise from top left; Eumundi Markets; seafood platter at The Boat House; 10kg koala at Australia Zoo; RACV Resort Noosa.

Photos Tourism and Events Queensland/Sarah Ellis

With two heated lagoon-style pools, a kid’s splash park and a toddler pool, the girls were in seventh heaven.

Even with a couple of days of rain (which, we were told, was highly unusual) it didn’t stop them spending several hours each day immersed in the warm water.

Resort staff were friendly and professional and our two-bedroom apartment was large, modern and overlooked the wetlands sanctuary, which ensured peace and privacy.

With a fully-fitted kitchen we could self-cater, or when boiling the water for our eggs became too much of an

effort, we headed to the restaurant for a cooked buffet breakfast – kids ate for free with a paying adult.

For dinner the resort options were a-la-carte dining, wood-fired pizza or

casual eating in the bar, where I enjoyed some of the best fish cakes I have ever tasted!

Speaking of things fishy, it is almost

a rite of passage to have a seafood platter experience on the coast and there was no better place than The Boat House on the banks of the Noosa River at Noosaville.

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Noosa

Photos Tourism and Events Queensland

The restaurant was right on the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edge and we really did feel as if we were on a boat with pelicans floating by as we watched the sunset â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it was a magic evening!

Our three-tier platter for two arrived with instructions, no less, on where to start â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our lovely young waiter suggested bottom up although when on holiday, all rules can go out the window! The platter came with a complimentary bottle of wine, and again, the kids dined for free (conditions applied).

No visit to Queensland is complete without a trip to at least one of the theme parks on the Gold Coast â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and whilst it was a good two-hour drive from Noosa it was so worth the journey to see how much our girls enjoyed it.

lizard, cuddle a koala (which weighed 10kgs) and feed kangaroos.

Handy Tip: download a few movies onto your iPad for youngsters to watch on long car rides.

There is no better feeling as a parent than to see your children grinning from ear to ear with excitement and laughing at their mother getting soaked on Dreamworldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wild West Water ride.

Another great day out was a visit to Australia Zoo. Since our last visit, just before the great Steve Irvin died in 2006, there has been significant money invested in the infrastructure and the African encounter was one of those investments.

Again, the girls were completely entertained and engaged with the animals and the shows. Both were brave enough to stroke a blue tongue

Our nine-year-old coerced us into having a professional photo taken with a koala and, as all proceeds went back into wildlife conservation, we knew we were making the children happy, and were contributing to a worthwhile cause.

And because the bus followed the coast road, it meant passengers could also take in the ocean scenery and the other tourist spots along the way, including Peregian and Coolum Beach.

Both my husband and I enjoy shopping â&#x20AC;&#x201C; although he may not admit to it â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so when the tropical rain fell on a couple of occasions we headed down to either the Sunshine Plaza at Maroochydore or Hastings Street, Noosa. Both locations were easy to access even without a car.

Of course, there was a host of other wonderful places to visit. We suggest first timers should definitely check out the colourful Eumundi Markets, operating Wednesday to Saturday, and take a trip to charming Montville with its fascinating array of shops and eateries.

The RACV Resort ran a free shuttle to Hastings Street a couple of times a day and there was a bus from

Without doubt, Queenslandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sunshine Coast is a winter holiday destination which is hard to resist.

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living

Bring in the Zing thing!

Since Whitford entrepreneur, Alister Gates, took his range of sports drinks to market earlier this year, it seems many doors have already opened, as JON RAWLINSON discovered.

Running a business can lead to sleepless nights. Fortunately, Whitford’s Alister Gates has all the energy he needs right at his fingertips.

many drinks have a lot of sugar, and chemicals and preservatives are needed to keep substances, such as vitamins and electrolytes, stabilised in water,” he says.

The founder of VitalZing says the company’s sports drinks have helped him manage a hectic schedule caused by the meteoric rise of the new business.

“I began thinking how we could make healthy drinks without adding chemicals and preservatives. Then I came across dosing cap technology from a US company called BlastMax.”

“I’ve hired a national sales manager and a customer services manager recently; we’re expanding rapidly,” he says. “I’m now spending most of my time speaking to people overseas at all hours of the day!”

Developed by “crazy American” – and now good mate of Alister’s – Mikel Anderson, BlastMax stores active ingredients in VitalZing caps so their effectiveness does not diminish, eliminating the need for preservatives.

When not shuffling between his home in Whitford and the company’s offices in Grey Lynn, Alister is busy building the business and developing new markets worldwide.

“We introduced the range to the market at the Fine Food Show in June and had an absolutely mind-blowing response!” he says.

“Every element is different, but some, such as vitamin B, break down by 50 percent once they’ve been in water for a day. But, with BlastMax, all the active ingredients, such as electrolytes and vitamin D are stored in powder form in the cap. Then you just hit the cap, shake it and you’re good to go!”

Alister Gates

“Since then, we’ve been signed up by Countdown, we’re into Foodstuffs – including Pak’n Save and New World – we’ve launched in 53 Jetts gyms, which has been fantastic, and we have product ready to go in Australia as well.”

“We set some expectations which have been markedly exceeded. This has to be the most fun, exciting and fast-moving product I’ve ever been involved with. I’ve had some successes (and failures) but with this one, we just caught a wave and away we’ve gone!”

He says VitalZing is already going international with product on the ground in Australia and even plans for a factory in the USA to serve the abundant American market.

“The challenge with water is that there’s little money in it, so I looked at ways value could be added. Also, www.ruralliving.co.nz

While sales have already been incredible amongst individuals, top sports teams – including Waikato’s ITM Cup rugby team – are also turning to VitalZing. Waikato’s head of strength and conditioning, Todd Barker, says the Mooloos’ mood has improved as a result.

“The VitalZing products were a great addition to the athletes’ weekly preparation. The men enjoyed it and found it gave them a great lift in mood and energy, and helped them perform at a higher level than previously experienced with other supplements,” he says.

Alister expects other sports teams to follow suit.

“We have some lead-ins for a number of other teams, but haven’t confirmed anything yet… there just hasn’t been time! But we’re confident it’ll catch on.”

Photo Wayne Martin

Win! VitalZing prize pack Good sports are sweet enough already! At least that’s the theory to which founder of VitalZing, Alister Gates, subscribes. Featuring vitamins, minerals and nutrients with no sugar, artificial sweeteners, or preservatives, VitalZing has been designed to deliver an energy boost when it’s needed most.

And, just to ensure active ingredients are at their peak when you are, they’re stored in its unique BlastMax Cap. When you’re ready to drink, blast the powder into the natural New Zealand spring water base, shake to combine and enjoy!

Rural Living has a prize pack including a selection of four VitalZing Green Teas, four Electrolytes and a box of eight of the brand’s Water Drops up for grabs. See the competitions page at ruralliving.co.nz to be in to win.

One entry per person/ email address; entries close December 31, 2014. Winner notified by phone or email.

Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 41

LIVING ����������������������������������������������������������

Clevedon takes on new flavour There is a story behind every culinary masterpiece, dining experience and chef.

NATALIE BRITTAN meets a Clevedon personality who has rubbed shoulders with politicians and movie stars, lived a life of culinary adventure and knows how to cook up a good story.

He may have an impossibly short attention span but one thing remains consistent for chef, Adam Dickson: food.

The “new old guy” at the Log Cabin recently relaunched the well-known Clevedon restaurant (which has been shut for the past four years), as Chef’s Kitchen. “I wanted to create something fresh and exciting, and I wanted my own brand,” says Adam, who ran the Log Cabin prior to its closing.

Factor in Adam’s colourful culinary background and it is evident his idea of “fresh and exciting” is very different to that of most people.

Life was no bed of roses for Twizelborn Adam who grew up with divorced parents and a nomadic childhood scattered across New Zealand and Australia. But even as a 14-year-old, he had big dreams. “I wanted to achieve and be the best.

I came from a rocky background – I didn’t want to go back there.”

And education wasn’t the way out. “I hated school. I couldn’t read or write and was severely dyslexic but I really enjoyed cooking. It’s free food that I

get to eat, taste and savour; you can sleep anywhere but it’s pretty hard to get food if you don’t have money.”

So Adam put his foot in the door of the Bush House restaurant in Martinborough and began washing windows, cooking and cleaning. At the same time, he sold sandwiches over the window of his stepmother’s florist shop – “highly legal!”

Then, he saw an advertisement for apprentice cooks in Australia’s tourist hotspot Port Douglas. “I saved up my money, lied to my father and said I was popping over to see mum for the holidays.”

Landing in Cairns, the gutsy redhead hitchhiked to Port Douglas. “It was two weeks before my 15th birthday, I had $50 in my back pocket and I was determined to be a chef.”

Arriving at the five-star ITT Sheraton Mirage Resort, Adam, despite his age, got the job. “I had no ID and no tax code. I got away with it by lying through my teeth. I had a beard at 12 – that helped.”

What he lacked in integrity he made

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Adam transferred his apprenticeship to Taste of Thailand restaurant and its owners took him under his wing, teaching him martial arts and cookery.

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42 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

school to learn to read and write properly.”

Slightly older, wiser and richer, Adam opened three pubs in Mossman, just outside of Port Douglas – his “own little empire”.

During that time, he held down numerous extra jobs including selling ice-creams and hot dogs – “I would sell hot dogs to the drunks outside night clubs – I made a lot of money!”

He also catered for film sets, and in the process, met movie stars such as John Travolta, Woody Harrelson and Marlon Brando as well as American president, Bill Clinton and rock outfit, Guns ‘N Roses.

This go-getting attitude was born out of necessity, he explains. “I always pushed myself; it’s what I had to do to survive. In between that I took myself through correspondence

But it wasn’t long before Adam “got bored” – a recurring phenomenon.

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living

Chef Adam Dickson enjoying the good life close to home with children Kiedis and Brier.

Photo Wayne Martin

addition of Adam and Faye’s children – five-year-old Kiedis (after Red Hot Chilli Peppers front man Anthony Kiedis) and two-year-old Brier (after the cheese). Add to that a cat and four chickens of Dorking and Suffolk breeds (aptly named Poached, Boiled, Scrambled and Fried), and the Dickson household was complete.

Not so, on the culinary front. “I was making all this money for what and making money for who?” Adam asked himself.

Guinea and back to Cairns. “I was camp cook and tour driver for about two years but when I couldn’t get a day off for my 21st birthday I quit and jumped on another tour – come hell or high water I was going to celebrate!”

When the partying subsided, Adam headed south exploring Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. He then went cooking on gas and oil rigs in central Australia, catering for the discerning tastes of corporate circles, as well as workers. “They didn’t want just fish and chips; they wanted the finest cuts of meat, the best fillets, truffles, Canadian salmon, beluga caviar and spices from India.”

His time on the rigs saw him survive a gas explosion, and he also witnessed some gruesome scenes of people losing arms and limbs and dying on the rig.

In the late ’90s, he’d had enough and “yearned to come back home and see my dad and sister.” He was appointed head chef at the Central Viaduct Cafe at a time when the Auckland Viaduct was coming to life for the America’s Cup in 2000.

Then he hopped back across the ditch for the Sydney Olympics, becoming head chef at the Truffle Group, a highend catering company. “We went nuts for the Olympics. We made our own www.ruralliving.co.nz

floating restaurant in Pearl Bay and I got shot, stabbed, and electrocuted! I wasn’t just cooking.”

When the excitement and “carnage” died down, Adam decided to head back to Port Douglas on a Harley Davidson. However, he never made it, detouring instead to answer a call for help from a friend who owned a backpackers further down the coast.

“Day one, I walked in and there was this woman standing there covered in mud, wearing a dirty old singlet, big floppy hat and jandals. It was the woman who would become my wife – Faye.”

Originally from the United Kingdom, Faye had been backpacking through Australia and working on orchards.

The pair bonded over their love of music, travel and hospitality. But circumstances led to them parting ways – Faye returned to England and Adam remained in Australia.

Then the “pining” set in so Adam jumped on a plane and headed to Canberra for a visa. A quick stop in Japan followed before he finally landed in England. Catching up again with Faye, marriage soon followed.

Because of visa restrictions, Adam initially worked as a waiter but it wasn’t long before people caught drift of his culinary talent. Working

predominantly at four-star hotels in Devon and Cornwall, he soon “struck it famous” at Azure at Living Coasts, a restaurant linked to a marine coastal zoo and major attraction.

His emphasis on local produce and “paddock to plate” attracted attention from the BBC – “I was among the top 100 UK chefs at number 14”.

As with most career successes there was a price to pay. That’s when the couple decided on a change of lifestyle with New Zealand an obvious choice – “Australia was too dry!”

The Dicksons settled in Clevedon, where Adam’s sister lived, and he began working at the Log Cabin.

“When we opened at night it spiralled out of control – it was great!”

Things ran smoothly for a few years until the Log Cabin owners decided to call it quits.

The ever-resourceful Adam then moved into a new role as executive food specialist – “chief bottle washer, flour stacker!” – for gourmet supermarket brand, Nosh, juggling it alongside consulting for hospitality recruitment group, Bravo, as well as lecturing at the Manukau Institute of Technology.

Home life, bustled too, with the

Tired of battling traffic into town and then parking, Adam looked closer to home and the Log Cabin premises proved to be the perfect opportunity.

Together with Faye, and business partner and fellow local, Ginny Alexander, Adam finally launched Chef’s Kitchen in September.

“We want to open it to the community again. Clevedon has such a strong sense of community and we want to be good hosts, serving local food with seasonal ingredients and countrystyle portions at a decent price.”

Everything is kept as local as possible using Clevedon suppliers such as Clevedon Coast Oysters, Curious Croppers, Clevedon Valley Buffalo Company, and Puriri Hills and Vin Alto vineyards. The beef is sourced from Ginny’s herd of Highland cattle just a stone’s throw away.

“It has a lower fat content but more marbling which sounds contradictory.

It’s fat that’s lower in cholesterol – good fat,” says Adam, who harbours bigger plans for the restaurant, including opening an on-site deli selling homemade condiments as well as smoked meats and also hosting cooking classes.

But will this be enough to keep the boredom at bay?

“Certainly,” says Adam. “This is it – it’s our love child. Even if we won the lotto we’d still be doing this. I love that you can create beautiful pieces of art you can eat, that can be mysterious, seductive and wholesome – it’s limitless.”

Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 43

LIVING �������������������������������������������������������������������������������

Reviving passion for healthy food the revive cafe cookbook 4 Author: Jeremy Dixon Publisher: Revive Concepts RRP: $29.99 Reviewed by: Helen Perry The Revive Cafe Cookbook 4 couldn’t be better named. With festive socialising on the calendar, Christmas Day feasting closing in and holiday barbecues the way to entertain over summer, most folk will need reviving!

But this colourful and beautifully presented cookbook by Jeremy Dixon, founder of the Revive cafes in Auckland, should do more for cooks than just perk them up. It will make

Jeremy says the objective of his book is to encourage people to eat healthier food – and just one look at the mouth-watering illustrations accompanying each recipe, is sure to do exactly that.

• 1 tblsp oil • 2 cloves garlic finely chopped or crushed • 1 1/2 cups red onion sliced (1 large onion) • 1 cup red capsicum (bell pepper) sliced thinly (around 1 capsicum) • 1 cup carrot julienne (around 1 medium carrot) • 1 tblsp finely chopped ginger or ginger puree • 4 cloves garlic •4 00g (12oz) tin black beans (drained) • 1 tablespoon honey • 1 tsp salt

Yes, Revive food contains whole grains, plant-based protein, fresh produce and virtually no processed sugars or flours. All recipes are dairy and egg-free and most are gluten-free.

To date The Revive Cafe Cookbooks (this is the fourth) have sold more than 75,000 copies in New Zealand and the books appear regularly on Whitcoulls Top Five bestselling cookbooks list.

Revive 4 keeps up this winning formula by providing 78 nutritious, delicious and easy-to-follow

BLACK BEAN STIR FRY Makes 3 x 1 cup serves

Importantly, nothing seems too hard.

It’s the kind of book where you want to march into the kitchen and get started – vegetarian or not.

them eager to eat well without feeling bad.

• 1 tsp black sesame seeds • 1 tsp white sesame seeds • 2 tblsp lime juice (around 1 lime) • 1 large spring onion (scallions) sliced In a pan saute the oil, garlic, onion, peppers, carrots, ginger and garlic for around 5 minutes or until onion is soft.

vegetarian recipes. They include salads, hotpots and stir fries, mains, soups, sweet things, flavour boosters, and for the first time, sides.

But if you’re a dedicated carnivore, don’t let prejudices deter. Go looking for this great cookbook – it’s a real goodie. What’s more, you can also sign up for weekly recipes, news, health tips and special offers at revive.co.nz – now that’s a bonus!

We’ve featured two Revive Cafe Cookbook 4 recipes below.

BLUEBERRY PARFAIT Makes 4 x 1 cup serves BASE: • 2 cups cashew nuts raw • 2 cups water • 1 tblsp honey or date puree • 1 tsp agar agar FRUIT TOPPING:

Add the black beans, honey and salt and heat while stirring gently for another 3 minutes or until everything is cooked (but still firm).

• 1 cup frozen or fresh blueberries • 1 tablespoon honey • 1 tsp arrowroot • 1/2 cup cold water

Garnish with sesame seeds, lime juice and spring onions and serve.

Combine all of the base ingredients into a blender. Blend until smooth.

Pour into a pot or small frying pan and heat. Stir regularly until it is thickened.

Pour into 4 nice serving glasses.

In another pot heat the berries until they are defrosted. Mix the arrowroot, water and honey in a cup and pour over the berries. Keep stirring until you have a nice thick mixture.

Pour the berry mixture over the base ingredients in the glasses.

Refrigerate for at least half an hour for it to firm up and cool.

Photos supplied

This recipe is best when it is really well blended to make it smooth. You may have to blend for several minutes. Some lower powered blenders may struggle. You can also soak the cashews in water overnight to soften them which may help.

These festive recipes are just two featured in Jeremy Dickson’s new book The Revive Cafe Cookbook 4. Available from revive.co.nz and all good bookshops.

44 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

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‘Pokeno’ on parade The new Queen’s Redoubt Visitor Centre is due to open early next year but recently ANGELA KEMP peeked behind the preparation and discovered a fascinating story about the New Zealand Wars which is anything but a shaggy dog tale.

Australia in 1869 and amalgamated with the 97th Regiment based at Fort Charles, Kinsale.

In a little corner of Ireland lies the remains of a scruffy, likeable-looking mutt called Pokeno. His terrier traits suggest he might have been a good rat-catcher in the farm buildings of the small northern Waikato settlement for which he was named.

But Pokeno was destined for a grander life which would see him transported across the world and awarded a military medal.

Born in 1863 at the start of the Waikato Wars, the dog became the mascot of the British Army’s 50th Queen’s Own Regiment stationed at the Queen’s Redoubt in Pokeno.

What his duties were is anybody’s guess, but what we do know is that he lived until he was 13 before being buried in a field beside the Kinsale Barracks in Cork, Ireland.

According to the Queen’s Own Gazette, a granite slab marking his grave bore the inscription: “To the dog Pokeno. Born in New Zealand 1863. Died at Kinsale Oct 20, 1876.

For 13 years he followed the colours of the 50th Queen’s Own”.

This touching aside to a bitter conflict was uncovered by local historian, Ian Barton, of the Queen’s Redoubt Trust, which is set to open a new $150,000 visitor centre. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Ian Barton His research into the important earthworks has taken him to archives in this country and the United Kingdom in pursuit of documents relating to its history.

“One of the best finds I’ve made is the discovery of the little dog. There’s a photograph of him in the regiment’s museum in Maidstone,” Ian says.

“The remarkable thing about this photograph, obviously taken before 1876, is that Pokeno remained remarkably still for the up to one minute exposure required at the time. No doubt he learned this while standing on parade with the regiment.”

Ian says Pokeno ended his days in Ireland after the regiment returned from duties in New Zealand and

However, the little dog’s story will now be seen in the Trust’s new visitor centre at Pokeno, which incorporates a large display room and space for storage and repair of artefacts as well as a library containing archival material. The latter will eventually be available to the general public for research.

The centre is the first step towards the Trust’s goal of creating a national land wars study centre in Pokeno. It also wants to see a memorial erected in memory of all those who fell in the wars.

“The biggest problem we have is that any memorial must have the names of everyone who died and that will be very difficult from both the Maori and British sides,” Ian says.

“The original settlers’ cemetery in Helenslee Road was also the military cemetery where the noncommissioned ranks, who died at Queen’s Redoubt, were buried.

There is supposedly about 70 privates, sergeants and other ranks buried there but no officers as they were taken to Symonds Street in Auckland.

The Queen’s Redoubt trench in the foreground of the new Queen’s Redoubt Vistor Centre waiting on finishing touches before opening.

Inset; ‘Pokeno’ – a local terrier who became a regiment’s mascot.

“Because, only wooden monuments were erected, they soon rotted. By the end of the century, it wasn’t known where anyone was.”

In 1902 a memorial cairn to British soldiers who died at Queen’s Redoubt was erected and in 1999 this was up-graded when inscribed granite panels were added.

“I’ve found a few more names after searching Papers Past and found six others who are not listed on the monument,” Ian says. “There are a lot more we don’t know about.”

Another local conundrum the historian is keen to throw light on is the location of a house in Pokeno which was used as an internment centre for wives of Japanese nationals during the Second World War. “The men were in prison on Soames Island in Wellington and the women, who were mostly Tongan, were looked after in the house by the first woman police officer in New Zealand.

We’ve never been able to pinpoint exactly where that building was.”

Anyone interested to learn more about the Trust should check out its website at www.queensredoubt.co.nz where there are details as to how to become involved.

Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 47

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From left, Stu Keven, Steve Coleman, Nev Henderson and Lina Sant.

Photo Wayne Martin

Kevens – for better bedding buys Those dreaming of a comfy Christmas when staying with friends or family during the holiday season could be disappointed, says Stuart Keven from Keven’s Department Store.

“While it’s great to catch up with family, it’s not so great to lose sleep, and even head home with a bad back, all down to a dodgy settee or bed! Because this time of year can be so stressful, a good night’s sleep is important for health, happiness and well being.”

With a wide range of beds and foldout sofas in store, Stuart and team can provide locals with the things that dreams are made on!

“People can buy top quality, luxurious beds, with five year and 10 year warranties at unbelievable prices. We also carry a large selection of marginal seconds – usually with only minor carrier damage – at super hot prices as well!”

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went through the waterbed phase – they were the best thing to own, until they became the worst”, he jokes.

a century ago, Stuart says the family has been focused on meeting the needs of the community.

“All Black Ben Smith is endorsing Slumberzone’s range – which includes Orthocool Gel memory foam, Durafoam and ‘Aircool’ memory foam in beds and models designed to ensure perfect posture. If anyone knows how important it is to get a good night’s sleep, it would be pro’ athletes,” Stuart says.

“It may seem like a bed’s just a bed, but there’s been a lot of development in terms of style and function. Today, there are all sorts of new ‘memory’ foams which mould to the body, zoned pocket spring beds – which provides ultimate sleeping comfort and minimal partner disturbance.”

“From dress materials, when we first started, to a focus on beds, chairs, sofas and furniture, my family has seen a lot of change in the area over the years.

The range even includes beds that emit a heavenly lavender scent to further facilitate satisfying slumber.

With so many options, today’s bedbuyers are best to consult an expert, Stuart says.

“We’re thrilled to be working with Slumberzone – not just because it’s a Kiwi company from just up the road in Manurewa – but because the beds are amongst the best we’ve ever seen.”

“Life’s stressful at the best of times and few of us really get as much sleep as we need, so it’s important to have the right bed to ensure deep, restful sleep.”

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And Stuart has seen quite a few beds in his time. “The first beds we sold were wire-wove with spring wire matting; later on, we had latex, then inner-sprung mattresses. We also

“However, we’ve always stayed up with the play in order to keep our community comfy with all aspects of purchases, including lounge, dining, rugs, orthopaedic chairs, and occasional furniture. And we also offer free local delivery, just to make life that little bit easier.”

While the Keven’s helm is steadily held by Stuart these days, a fourth generation is also involved.

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Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 49

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By David & Kirsty Powell, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe As we work our way through a windy spring some new trends are emerging in the rural property market.

The sheep and beef, horticulture and arable farms have had increased sales over last year compared to dairying and finishing.

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Total sales of lifestyle blocks also fell, however, the volumes in Auckland held up to be just ahead of last year.

• The NZ median farm price per ha increased from $18,000 to $26,000/ha.

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• The majority of districts have experienced increased prices of lifestyle blocks over the last two years. Exceptions being Southland, Manawatu/Wanganui and Gisborne.

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Native to Taiwan, orangeberry plants (Rubus pentalobus) produce flavourful berries; however they are notorious for their reluctance to produce fruit.

The reason for its lack of fertility is suspected to be that the plants require cross pollination from another member of the rubus family, but trials are still being conducted.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thought that yields could be improved by restricting the roots, refraining from pruning and feeding, and applying potash.

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Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; November - December 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 53

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In the swim – safely!

Come summer families lucky enough to have a swimming pool in the back yard can enjoy hours of refreshing fun but to keep youngsters safe it’s important to have pool rules.

For example, an adult should be present at all times to watch children and they need to be extra vigilant where there are infants or toddlers.

That doesn’t mean watching from the kitchen window! Should a young child slip into the pool or get into trouble whilst swimming, an adult should be just a stride away. A turn of the head and a child can drown in three minutes.

r11030

ACCREDITED BUILDING CONSENT AUTHORITY

Building or Buying or Selling? s Residential, Commercial & Industrial Plan Approval and Compliance Inspection Services s Pre-purchase Inspection Reports s Building Advice s Unauthorised Building Resolution Ph 272 2269 Fax 272 2270 Email: info@bldgcert.co.nz Unit 23/2 Bishop Dunn Place, Botany South, Auckland 2013 PO Box 217 012, Botany Junction 2164 www.compassbuilding.co.nz

For older children, an adult should still be paying constant attention and not be distracted by talking on the phone, socialising with friends or doing household chores.

Importantly, ensure fencing that doesn’t allow a small child to climb or to slip through bars.

Some sensible pool rules:

Pool fences should be:

• Keep toys away from the pool when it’s not in use.

•E mpty blow-up pools after each use.

• No tricycles or other ride-on toys at poolside.

• No electrical appliances near the pool.

• No running on the pool deck or tiled surrounds.

• Climb-resistant and should not have poolside furniture or other items stacked against the fence. This could be used to climb on and over a fence into the pool area.

• At least four feet high and have no footholds or handholds.

• No more than about 100mm between vertical bars or slats.

• Accessed through a well maintained, self-closing and selflatching gate that opens away from the pool. The latches should be higher than a child can reach.

We all know pool fencing is imperative and most councils have strict bylaws to ensure pools are fenced and feature child-proof gates.

For above-ground pools always keep children away from steps or ladders.

When the pool is not in use, remove the ladders or secure in some way to prevent access by children.

Other ways to assist in pool safety include: • Automatic pool covers (motorised covers operated by a switch). Pool covers should cover the entire pool so that a child can’t slip under them.

Make sure there is no standing water on top of the pool cover • Door alarms • Doors to the house that are selfclosing/self-latching • Window guards • Pool alarms

reducing risk in pools Families planning to install a pool need to make swimming lessons a priority for both children and also for parents who cannot swim.

• Physical limitations • Health concerns related to swimming pools (eg, swallowing water, infections, pool chemicals)

Many youngsters learn water confidence as toddlers then as older pre-schoolers are instructed in water survival skills or may even start learning to swim properly. However, be aware that children develop at different rates and some may need more patience than others.

Diving Safety

Before starting swim lessons consider: • Frequency of exposure to water • Emotional maturity

Keep safe by following these simple commonsense diving rules: • Check how deep the water is. Enter the water feet first, especially when

Serious spinal cord injuries, permanent brain damage, and death can occur to swimmers who dive into shallow water or spring upward on the diving board and hit it on the way down.

going in for the first time.

• Never dive into above-ground pools; they are usually not deep enough and never dive into the shallow end of a pool.

• Never dive through inner tubes or other pool toys.

• Learn how to dive properly by taking classes.

53844

54 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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living

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

Seed soil contact

As November nears its end, the year is warming up and many gardens are already looking prosperous but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still plenty to be done.

By David Aspin, Dip Turf Culture

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no time like the present to plant beans. Warm, moist soil is the key to successful sowing and when it comes to runners have a bean pole, climbing frame or tie string between stakes to support them as they grow.

As the germination process takes place, the root is the first to emerge from the seed and it needs to anchor in the soil. If the seed is free to move, the root will move the seed along the ground preventing the seed/plant from feeding off the soil.

As a result, the seedling will die.

Soil preparation is vital for good seed germination. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bury the seed too deep â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5-7mm is fine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and some seed can be on the surface as long as good soil contact is made.

Seeds have different sowing ratios because the seeds are a different size eg; rye grass needs to have about 15 seeds per two square centimetres whereas brown top needs about 35 seeds per two square centimetres.

A base fertiliser is a must to get seeds growing. The major elements at seeding are calcium and phosphate; both are root fertilisers.

Calcium is needed by the whole plant and phosphate is the main root fertiliser. Nitrogen is not so important until plants reach the two

Prepare the seed bed well and after seeding, roll, then water. Grass seed needs to be watered at least once a day and evening is the best time although morning is also good.

Wind will dry the seed bed faster than the sun.

Earth up potatoes too. As they begin to grow heap the earth around the plant to prevent new tubers from turning green and poisonous. The yield from each plant will be much higher as more potatoes form on the buried stems.

Do not mow the grass until it is at least 2 to 3cm high and then cut no more than a third off the height, making sure the mower blade is sharp.

Tomatoes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; plant â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;em and stake â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;em fast ! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the last opportunity to get tomatoes underway as growers will finish releasing new plants shortly.

Weed Control Now is the time to control that pesky Onehunga weed in an established lawn. Spraying now will ensure that youngsters can run barefoot on your lawn and not suffer prickles in their feet.

There are many safe herbicides to remove weeds from a lawn, but be sure to read the label first. Measure the lawn and get the rate right; spray when there is no wind, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spray in the heat of the day and if you are unsure, employ someone qualified to spray the lawn for you.

Next month â&#x20AC;&#x201C; convert your kikuyu lawn to a fine fescue lawn. Good luck and stay stuck to the soil.

%BWJE " "TQJO

www.ruralliving.co.nz

The early appearance of mites and brown scale on citrus leaves can turn them pale and pitted, not to mention the disease Citrus verrucosis, which can malform leaves. Spray with Conqueror Oil or Neem Oil.

Garden centres now have available kumara seedlings that are planted lengthwise into soil. Plant into a good free-draining mix (or add a bit of sand) and consider elevating in tyres or planters to stop them rooting into soil, rather than producing nice kumara! Kumara requires up to six months of warm growing time and regular watering.

Conserve Water: Last month we launched BLACKGOLD Mulch a brilliant new product exclusive to Central Landscape. Naturally dyed black wood chip is combined with Living Earth Organic Certified Compost to nourish existing plants, maintain soil moisture at the plantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; roots and suppress weeds. Available at all Central Landscape yards.

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If the tree is not yet flowering, sprinkle Neem Granules under the tree out to the drip-line. As the tree starts to flower, hang a small, partly filled tin of treacle in the tree.

The objective is to catch the male moths in the treacle. Codling moth pheromone traps to hang in the tree are also available. Some gardeners then keep up a Neem Oil spray programme every month.

Stake all vine tomatoes with at least a 1.8m high stake as they grow quickly. Feed regularly with specific purpose tomato food. For bush types that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need space try a variety called Scoresby Dwarf, which yields surprisingly high fruit volumes.

AGS K â&#x20AC;˘ BOAN L U â&#x20AC;˘ B REE L â&#x20AC;˘ F AILERS VICE TR Y SER R BLE LIVE â&#x20AC;˘ DE AVAILA

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Now is the time to consider spraying programmes. Codling moth devastates crops of apples, pears, walnuts and quinces and while there are several control remedies, Digger recommends a combination.

R100042-v2

For grass seed to germinate you need to ensure the seed is stuck to the soil.

leaf stage because the seed stores energy to get the plant started.

Open 7 days a week www.centrallandscapes.co.nz

We can deliver and also have FREE LOAN TRAILERS

Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; November - December 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 55

LIVING �������������������������������������������������������������������������������

Enabling financial success Since establishing its first office in Auckland’s CBD in 2007, enableMe has helped more than 3000 clients achieve their financial goals and stay on track through the simple but powerful approach pioneered by founding director, Hannah McQueen.

With the success of the city branch, enableMe is now expanding and has an office located in Manukau. This new business has been established to serve the growing south-east Auckland area.

Becoming mortgage-free is a flagship principle for enableMe and was indeed its genesis – though the service offered now covers financial support through all stages of life.

It all started when Hannah, as a successful young chartered accountant with a master’s degree in taxation, took on her first mortgage. Troubled by the prospect of it gobbling up a significant chunk of her and her husband’s financial future, she sought a way to repay it as quickly as possible, at the lowest possible cost, while still having flexibility to live the life they wanted.

After considerable research, Hannah worked with Dr. Jamie Sneddon in the Mathematics Department at the University of Auckland and developed a formula (now patented) which structures debt in a way that it is repaid as quickly as possible, at the lowest cost and with maximum flexibility.

Every client’s structure is unique as it is based on the specific cash surplus each client has – and that is the first piece of the puzzle: identifying and creating a cash surplus by reconstructing a detailed spending plan.

By partnering with an expert that can apply financial “smarts” to your situation, you can reach financial goals with little or no change to your lifestyle. enableMe clients are teamed up with their own financial consultant who examines their current financial situation, identifies areas where money is “leaking” or being frittered

and formulates a plan to create the all-important cash surplus.

The relationship between client and consultant is a lot like the one you have with a personal trainer at a gym – hence their moniker ‘financial personal trainers’.

When clients first engage with enableMe, their consultant will help identify which category they are currently in (‘sinking’, ‘floating’ or ‘flying’); which financial life stage they are moving through (‘starting out’, ‘building up’ or ‘sitting back’); and what their plans and goals are for the next two, five and 10 years.

A detailed plan is then prepared in consultation with the clients and the consultant works alongside them, just like a personal trainer, to keep their clients accountable and motivated every step of the way.

Bank accounts are re-organised and mortgages optimised and restructured by enableMe’s own in-house mortgage team. Plans are prepared to help clients change their money behaviour on a day-to-day basis and easy to follow “to-do lists” and instructions are provided to remove any hurdles that could get in the way of clients achieving financial success.

Face to face check-ins every three months for the first year help clients ensure they are sticking to their plan and allow consultants to closely monitor their clients’ progress.

The consultant is also available on phone and email to offer support and guidance every step of the way. And, because life can throw curveballs at any time and circumstances can quickly change, the plans often evolve and are updated as time goes on.

Whatever your starting point or financial goals, enableMe can help

56 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

Dianne Barlow, Manager – enableMe – Auckland South. you do things smarter to ensure you get ahead faster.

They will diagnose your current situation and behaviour around money. They will also be honest with you and offer independent and impartial advice to get you ahead.

Photo Wayne Martin

Her experience covers a vast range of business enterprises and while she has always enjoyed helping her clients with the challenges associated with successfully running a business, she is now looking forward to changing tack and helping individuals achieve their financial goals to get ahead faster.

Dianne Barlow is the Auckland South manager and owner; she is a qualified chartered accountant and registered financial adviser.

Dianne and her husband have been clients of enableMe and, having seen the results, Dianne is very excited to bring this new business to the area.

Phone 0800 897 898 to organise an obligation-free consultation. enableme.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

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living

Pay cash, or charge it?

By Alistair Davidson Usually when I pick up a press car it’s simply a matter of grabbing the keys, signing my life away, and driving off.

However, I approached Holden’s long range electric Volt with some trepidation and a list of questions as long as that of a kid who, for the first time, just saw a calf born.

How do you charge it? How long does it take to charge? How far will it go on a charge? What happens when it runs out of power, will I be stranded on a rural road with no power point? You can’t exactly hitchhike to the nearest service station for a can of electricity.

Volt is an electric car, so why doesn’t it have a power driver’s seat?

So, I waited around at the Holden dealership for the dude who’d just gone to Volt school to explain the ins and outs. To be honest I needn’t have bothered. I’m not the brightest crayon in the box but I could have figured it out myself; Volt is so simple to use.

There’s a neonish blue button on the console marked ‘power’. Funny that.

Push it and there’s a starship USS Enterprise start-up whir (not from the motor, it’s a synthesised sound) to let you know something’s happening.

Then there’s absolute silence. The only clue that you’re ready to rock ‘n’ roll is the instrument panel is lit up, and the word ‘ready’ is glowing in green. Select drive and you’re off.

If you forget to release the electric park brake don’t worry, the car does it for you.

The silence is remarkable, as is the

Volt’s a similar size to Cruze, but more futuristically styled. Not only is it an electric vehicle, it’s also positioned as a premium product that’s loaded with comfort, convenience, safety and ‘geeky’ high-tech features. There are two separate seats in the back due to the batteries being mounted centre and forward, for better weight distribution. The computer display is all good news: no petrol used on the drive to work.

Photos Alistair Davidson

super smooth ride. There are no gear changes, no rev counter, it just goes – very well, indeed.

The six-cylinder level of performance came as a pleasant surprise. The reason it pulls so strongly around town and during the overtaking lane grand prix is that the motor puts out a hefty 370Nm of torque. The only problem with a heavy right foot is that it significantly affects the car’s range.

You’ll get around 70 to 80km from a single charge, but even 100-metres of

hard acceleration will instantly shave a kilometre or two off the range.

household power point) and it’s done.

My daily commute is 50km, a combination of rural roads and rushhour Manukau City mayhem. Volt did this comfortably on a single charge, so there was no need to run an extension cord out of the office window.

You can even set the recharge start time to coincide with off-park cheap electricity – so easy. Unplug the car in the morning, drive to work, drive home and repeat. The process didn’t get tiresome even after the novelty factor wore off.

The evening charge routine was a piece of cake. Park in the garage, push a button to open a filler flap, plug in the lead that comes with the car (the other end goes in the

Although I couldn’t be described as a greenie, I must say a trip computer showing 0.0 litres/100km fuel used by the end of a 300km week was cool.

Continued on page 58

EUROPEAN CAR REPAIR SPECIALIST R11070

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Rural Living — November - December 2014 — 57

Engineering Supplies & Service s Bearings & Seals s Steel Sales s FASTENINGS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all types s Chains & Sprockets s Galvanised & High Tensile Chain s Wire Rope s V-Belts s TOOLS s Manufacture of replacement machine parts

Tims dreaming of a moderate Christmas Red faced, red nosed and reined in by the boys in blue is no way to spend the holidays!

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The new, lower limit [allows] us to reduce the number of people killed on our roads. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s already great to see many drivers taking the new limits on board and moderating their behaviour by not having alcoholic drinks at all before driving,â&#x20AC;? says Superintendent Tims.

21 Paerata Rd, Pukekohe (Opposite John Deere)

Call in for a Christmas safety tyre check

From page 57

Fear not. The Volt isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a hybrid (hybrids are electric/petrol with no plug-in recharging) but it does have a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;range extenderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; petrol engine as back-up, which takes its range to around 550km.

Tyre Management System Suspension & Brake Repairs Wheel Alignment Wheel Balancing Puncture Repairs Oil & Lube Service Batteries FREE pick-up & delivery * (*local area)

A read out on the instrument panel shows electric and power ranges, and the total range of the two combined, so even if you failed math at school youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll know how far you can go.

P: 09 239 1015 E: sales@tyresplus.co.nz Rob Mitchell

Drivers who provide readings of 251-400mcg face a $200 fine and 50 demerit points; 100 points or more from driving offences within two years is a three month licence suspension.

While all this doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean Christmas need be a sober occasion, lower limits may cause pause for thought about whether we want to spend Christmas with Saint Nick, or in the nick!

guy who drives a V8 Mustang?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;But what happened in the weekend when you went further afield?â&#x20AC;? I hear you ask. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like one, but our farmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s out in the sticks, the car would run out of charge.â&#x20AC;?

All brands available

R110112-V3

With a reduction to the alcohol limit for drivers in effect from December 1, Counties Manukau Police district commander, John Tims, says drivers best think before they drink.

Rather than 400mcg of alcohol per litre of breath, drivers will only be permitted 250mcg â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, down from 80mg. The limit for under 20s remains at zero.

I was sceptical about Voltâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s practicality, ease of use and driving appeal. In other words, I went into the test drive expecting to be disappointed. Yeah, I know that sucks, but what do you expect from a

Now I have to admit that I really enjoyed it, and apart from there being no power seat I found little to fault. It is the perfect car for daily commuting, yet it still has the ability to travel long distances.

This small carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s price is a sticking point though. Holden dropped $10,000 off the launch price, but even at $75k doing enough fuel-free miles to offset the buy-in cost is unlikely.

However if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re an early adopter, keen to reduce your carbon footprint or like the idea of driving past gas stations for weeks on end then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dead easy to justify Voltâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hefty price.

If Holdenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Volt is a glimpse of the future, things arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t looking too bad.

As long as I could still take my V8s for a blast to counter a weird urge to go hug the nearest tree, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be happy.

&ULLY FACTORY TRAINED TECHNICIANS 3TATE OF THE ART WORKSHOP FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT .EW (OLDEN AND .ISSAN 6EHICLES !CCESS TO OVER USED CARS /NSITE l NANCE AND INSURANCE

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58 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; November - December 2014

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Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 9am-12pm. Closed Sundays & Public Holidays.

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Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; November - December 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 59

Services offered Catering for a wide spectrum of engineering work CEW specialises in: N Site works N Entrances N Driveways N Drainage N Earth works N Hotmix N Chip sealing N Crack sealing N Retaining walls N Subdivision development N Pavement rehabilitation N Special jobs eg rural culverts N Contract supervision and management

We supply a wide range of commercial & domestic:

N Carpets N Vinyls N Auto & Marine carpets N Cork, Porcelain & Glass Tiles

Our services include:

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R1101165-V2

For a FREE no obligation quote contact our friendly team

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FARM PLANS & AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS RESOURCE MANAGEMENT APPLICATIONS BUILDING SET OUTS

Prompt, Professional Service for residential, lifestyle, commercial, industrial Valuations

TILES on elliot 29b Elliot St Papakura

-ORTGAGE &INANCE s "UILDING 0ROJECT s 3ELLING s "UYING s 2ENT 2EVIEWS s )NSURANCE #ERTIFICATES

/Fl CE OR s !NDREW (OPPING

TRADE PRICES for Rural Living customers!

Up to 45% OFF!

CURTAINS

Fantastic opportunity to invest in top quality fabrics at clearance prices.

While stocks last.

Give Andrew a call today for a free In-Home Design Consultation

F: 09 299 2587

Call the girls at Rainbow Curtains for quality and affordable prices

E: tilesonelliot@vodafone.co.nz

Ph / Fax: 09 298 9002 Email: sandywilson@xtra.co.nz www.rainbowcurtains.co.nz

Rural Living is delivered on the first week of each month.

Copies will go quickly so be quick to collect yours from any of the following outlets.

An electronic version is also available at ruralliving.co.nz

Roller, Venetian, Vertical and Roman Blinds Plus Awnings and Insect Screens

Makers of curtains, drapes, roman blinds plus suppliers of roller, venetian and timber blinds!

P: 09 214 6044 R11071-V2

R11063

URBAN & RURAL LAND DEVELOPMENT

0800 836 587 021 775 168

R101117-V3

David Lawrie Dan Madsen

R1101143

For a free consultation contact

R10108-V2

S

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www.venluree.co.nz

Rural Living is available FREE from selected advertisers and the following locations: Pukekohe Barfoot and Thompson, 68 King St. Pukekohe Library, 12 Massey Ave. Kevens Department Store, 73 King St. Franklin Vets, 86 Harris St. Papakura Franklin Vets, 365 Great South Rd. Pokeno Pokeno Bacon, Great South Rd. Waiuku Franklin Vets, 2 Court St. Mitre 10, 25 Bowen St.

60 — Rural Living — November - December 2014

Bombay Autobahn.

Tuakau H.R Fiskens, 295 Tuakau Rd. Tuakau Meats, 23 George St. Field Fresh Fruit & Vege, 3/53 George St. Profarm Tuakau, Cnr Madill Rd and George St. Ardmore Animal Stuff, 192 Airfield Rd. Karaka Animal Stuff, 671 Karaka Rd.

Drury Animal Stuff, 222 Great South Rd. Drury Butcher, 232a Great South Rd. Town & Country Vets, 257 Great South Rd. Hunua John Hill Estate, 144 John Hill Rd. Clevedon Clevedon Rural Supplies, 13 Papakura-Clevedon Rd, Clevedon Village Patumahoe The Butchers Shop Cafe, 4 Patumahoe Rd.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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SEPTIC TANK AND

SST SERVICES 39 Firth St, Drury

For use around the home, including: weatherboards, bricks, roofs, fences, tiles, cement boards, windows, driveways or any surface that needs a freshen-up. Great for car, boat and caravan.

R1101170

N Streak-free finish

NZâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s BEST Gardening Website

Freephone

show nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;shine

Advanced Concentrate Makes up to 80 litres!

e: msport@ihug.co.nz John: 0274 923 669 Robbie: 0274 967 430

Garden

W! NE

GREASE TRAP HOUSE CLEANING wash p: 09 294 7611

R11011104

DIRECTORY

N Spray on & wash off N Formulated for NZ conditions N Concentrated so you use less

email: vanb@wave.co.nz

Garden

N Non-corrosive to application equipment, hoses, fittings, pumps

The ultimate online resource for the gardening community garden-nz.co.nz offers information and advice on home gardens, fruit, vegetables, herbs, flowers, trees and shrubs.

It also includes great giveaways, competitions and a comprehensive directory of products, services and more.

Web:

www.bioloo.co.nz 54026

RIQUALIT Y APPR SANITISEOVED AS A R FACTOR FOR FARM, Y, FO OD NON-CO NTACT AR & EAS

www.homesafeproducts.co.nz Marketed by: CHEMSAFE

MANUFACTURING PO Box 231, Tuakau 2342.

Ph 09 238 5959, Fax 09 238 5676.

Email: rod@chemgroup.co.nz

WWW.GARDEN-NZ.CO.NZ Service & Value

53403

0800 BIOLOO (246566)

N High soap build and lifting agents to get all the dirt off AG

GUARANTEED

Commerical / Industrial / Residential

Waterblasters

â&#x20AC;˘ House soft wash â&#x20AC;˘ Roof cleaning â&#x20AC;˘ Gutter cleaning â&#x20AC;˘ Pre-paint cleaning â&#x20AC;˘ Fence and walls â&#x20AC;˘ Deck cleaning â&#x20AC;˘ Path cleaning WE ALSO OFFER...

Pest control

Window cleaning Carpet cleaning Furniture and upholstery cleaning Ph 0508 932 532 (0508 WE CLEAN), mobile 021 366 615 Email: ofďŹ ce@bestpropertyservices.co.nz

09 267 9100

www.bestpropertyservices.co.nz

R110115

54050

ROY F PARKER & SON LTD

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Killâ&#x20AC;? Ferrets, Possum, Rats and Rabbits â&#x20AC;&#x153;Deadâ&#x20AC;?

Philproofbait bait feeders feeders areare the answer Philproof the answer sizes, standard and mini available Two Two sizes, standard and mini available

Baitstation Mini

Timms

Possum/Rat/Rabbit bait stations Specially developed to protect bait from s 3UPECIl CALLY DEVELOPED TO PROTECT BAIT FROM rain and to protect blockages which can RAIN AND TO PROTECT BLOCKAGES WHICH CAN occur in other bait stations. Waterproof OCCUR IN OTHER BAIT STATIONS 7ATERPROOF The preferred bait station used by s 4UHE PREFERRED BAIT STATION USED BY professional pest control agencies PROFESSIONAL PEST CONTROL AGENCIES Large Philproof is ideal for baiting Rabbits ,ARGE 0HILPROOF IS IDEAL FOR BAITING 2ABBITS

Servicing Franklin for over 45 years Target Species Possum

Target Species Possum

Large Baitstation

Rodent Baitstation

AlsoRodent available Rodent Bait Stations, Block Timms Also available Bait Stations, Block Baits, Timms traps, RodentBaits, Snap traps traps, Rodent Snap traps (prices available on request). (prices available on request).

Target Species Rabbits & Possums

Ferret/Stoat trap covers UĂ&#x160;-ÂŤiVÂ&#x2C6;fi cally designed to s 3PECIl CALLY DESIGNED TO COVER -+ cover MK 4 or OR -+ &ENN KILL TRAPS MK 6 Fenn (kill) traps s .ARROW ENTRANCE GUIDES THE FERRET UĂ&#x160; >Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x160;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x2DC;ViĂ&#x160;}Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2C6;`iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160; the ferret/stoat STOAT OVER CENTRE OF TRIGGER PLATE over centre of trigger plate s 3TOCKPROOF UĂ&#x160;-Ă&#x152;Â&#x153;VÂ&#x17D;ÂŤĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Â&#x153;v s !VAILABLE IN SINGLE OR DOUBLE UĂ&#x160;Available in single or models double models UĂ&#x160; >`iĂ&#x160;vĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Â&#x201C;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x20AC;iVĂ&#x17E;VÂ?i`Ă&#x160;ÂŤÂ?>Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;V s -ADE FROM RECYCLED PLASTIC UĂ&#x160; Ă&#x160;{]Ă&#x160;}Ă&#x20AC;i>Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x20AC;>Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x20AC;>ÂŤĂ&#x160;iĂ?Ă&#x160;1 s -+ GREAT RAT TRAP EX 5+ Free advice Free advice7 days.

7 days.

PHILPROOF

Target Species Mice & Rats Single cover & trap

Double cover & 2 traps Fenn Trap without cover

Double Trap Cover

Target Species Stoat/Ferret

Trex Snap Trap

Sales, Service & Design of: s "ORES

s 0IPES 0ARTS

s 0UMPS

s &ILTRATION

s )RRIGATION s 0OOL 3PA

Target Species Mice & Rats

148 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe 52010

PO Box 4385, Hamilton, 3247, NZ

www.ruralliving.co.nz

*Remember to include your courier or RD address

PHONE/F 8Ă&#x160;­äĂ&#x2021;ÂŽĂ&#x160;nxÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x201C;Â&#x2122;{Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160; Â&#x153;LÂ&#x2C6;Â?iĂ&#x160;­äĂ&#x201C;ÂŁÂŽĂ&#x160;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2021;äĂ&#x160;xnÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x2C6; Email philproofJ}Â&#x201C;>Â&#x2C6;Â?°VÂ&#x153;Â&#x201C;Ă&#x160;U Website www.philproof.co.nz

53450

www.parkerspumping.co.nz

09 238 9588

Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; November - December 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 61

Supply, Installation & Servicing of:

Fully Qualified Arboricultural Specialists 202 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe Ph: 09 239 0136 or 021 399 298

s 7ATER 0UMPS &ILTER 3YSTEMS AND 56 ,IGHT 3YSTEMS s 4ANK #LEANING 2EPAIRS s 2EPLACEMENT &ILTERS s ,OAN 0UMPS AVAILABLE ON !,, (OUSE 0UMP 3ERVICING 2EPAIRS

pure & simple

2

Tree Felling and Removal Chainsaw work UĂ&#x160;Efficient reliable service UĂ&#x160;Competitive rates UĂ&#x160;No job too big or small

Please phone or text for a free quote R110113

021 076 0602 or 021 0235 4378

DAVIS TANKS

Totally mobile shearing service.

Bombays to Kaiwaka.

s &OR ALL YOUR CONCRETE TANK REQUIREMENTS s 7E BUILD n GALLON WATER TANKS Water tank repair and recondition specialist Concrete Tanks Tried & True

From One Animal Upwards

Y

%80%2)%.#%$ .: 7//, "/!2$ s #%24)&)%$ 3(%!2%23

Ces & Jan Mayall Phone (09) 276-1219 or mobile 0274-853-234 Mr.Clip.Ltd@gmail.com

Neil 0274 973 865 â&#x20AC;˘ Grant 021 678 720 A/hrs 09 232 7709 53449-v2

Sheep, Goats, Alpacas, Llamas

53559-v2

Grant Escott FENCING

CONTRACTOR

PEST CONTROL

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

53850-V2

s )NSECTS RODENTS s $OMESTIC COMMERCIAL s #ONSULTANCY work

Free quotes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Competitive rates

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

s grant.kylie@xtra.co.nz

Water - Septic - Retention - Specialty Tanks

Ph Neil for a quote: 021 794 148 anytime, A/H 09 232 8540

BOBCAT & TRUCK HIRE Building Site Preparation Site Cleaning and Base Filling Driveways and Landscape Shaping Free Quotes

s $ECKS s 0OST $RIVING s 2ETAINING 7ALLS s 2URAL 2ESIDENTIAL &ENCING

Mike mobile 021 765 629

ENVIRONMENLTYALL FRIEND

KEVIN PLATT BOB CAT SERVICES 0274 928 701 ah 09 238 6923

53407

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DUCKING

53434

Phone 238 9885 Mobile 0274 789 857 Main Highway, Paerata

R60019

MR CLIP LTD

â&#x20AC;˘ Excavators and truck hire â&#x20AC;˘ Farm drainage and races â&#x20AC;˘ Driveways and roading â&#x20AC;˘ House sites and horse arenas â&#x20AC;˘ Grader/roller and bulldozer hire â&#x20AC;˘ Metal cartage

WALKERS

9/5 .!-% )4 n 7% ,, +),, )4 #ONTROLLING YOUR PESTS FOR YEARS

021 109 9778 09 236 9947

Available for:

0800 826 525

FITZGERALD Earthworks

ALLSORTS TREE SOLUTIONS

T/A RW & NS PARTNERSHIP

Conventional Hay Making Mulcher Mowing | Post Ramming Farm Maintenance

53846

53578

7 Subway Rd, Pukekohe franklinwater@vodafone.co.nz

ROBERT CURRIE CONTRACTING

53426

www.urbantreecare.co.nz

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Subscribe to Rural Living Rural Living is a stimulating magazine delivered to RD addresses in the Franklin district. It is designed to provide readers with varied rural information, which is both informative and helpful to the lifestyle market, as well as a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Livingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; section providing for all aspects of living.

HOW TO SUBSCRIBE: For your free e-edition of Rural Living delivered straight to your inbox go to www.ruralliving.co.nz/ subscriptions/e-edition For a copy of Rural Living mailed to your letterbox go to www.ruralliving.co.nz/subscriptions/print subscriptions. Postage costs $49 inc GST per annum.

RESPONSIBILITY page 18

RURAL | FASHION | BEAUTY | FOOD | GARDEN | HOME | MOTORING | TRAVEL www.ruralliving.co.nz

RL NOV-DEC.indd 1

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

20/11/2014 1:34:20 p.m.

62 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; November - December 2014

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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ď Ź 20 tonne diggers

COUNTIES BULK SPREADERS

ď Ź 5.5 tonne digger

ď Ź Tree Removal

ď Ź Tip trucks

ď Ź D65 Bulldozer ď Ź Roading

& scoop

ď Ź Low loader ď Ź Grader

ď Ź Excavations ď Ź Dams

VISIT US AT

www.trackworks.co.nz

s '2/5.$ 302%!$).' s ,)-% s &%24),)3%2 s 52%! s ,3 &OUL -ANURE ,IME -IX

ď Ź Drainage

& trailers

DIRECTORY

ď Ź Stopbanks

ď Ź Building sites

FOR ALL YOUR UNDERCARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS...

COUNTIES BULK HAULAGE

ď Ź Demolition

ď Ź Horse arenas ď Ź Metal/sand/

Workshop â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Engineering â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Onsite Welding and Mechanical services available Castrol Distributors: Agents for Fleet Guard IIIIIIIII IIIII Filters, Exide Batteries.

IIII IIIIIIII IIII IIII

s "5,+ #!24!'% /& -%4!, s 3!.$ s &%24),)3%2 s ,)-%

slag supplied

ď Ź General cartage

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III III WE KNOW TRACKS, ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S IN OUR IIII III IIII I I IIIIIII IIIIIII IIIIIIIII IIIIIIII NAME, MAKE TRACKS TO US IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

Experienced Operator 28 years+

Craig Nicholson Earthmoving & General Cartage

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

Boyd (09) 233 4466 0274 978 685 50390

Ph/Fax: 09 238 4047 or 021 987402 600 Buckland Rd, RD2, Pukekohe

Brenton (09) 236 3639 0274 921 916 53452

54039-V2

Call us for all your farming supply needs For the best advice and friendly service

1

IN TWO GREAT LOCATIONS

PROFARM

0800 SUCKA1

RURAL & LIFESTYLE

53420-V2

Certified Plumbers and Drainlayers

Cnr Madill & George St, Tuakau.

Ph 09 236 8228.

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

Alan Wilson Plumbing 235 9066

6 3

5

4 53791-V2

53445

0800 782 521

18 Elliot St, Papakura.

Ph 09 298 7767.

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Sat 8.30am-2.30pm

Or:

2

FOR ALL YOUR WATER NEEDS CALL IN AND SEE US

53562-v2

14 Constable Rd, Waiuku.

Ph 09 235 8268.

s "ORE 0UMP 3ALES 3ERVICING s 7ATER 0UMP 3ALES 3ERVICING s 7ATER 0URIlCATION s 7ATER 4ANKS s 7ATER 4ESTING s %LECTRICAL s &ILTERS

24-Hour Callout Service

PH 09 237 0050

s 0Ump 7ELL 3ERVICES s 0LUMBING n $RAINAGE n #ONCRETE 3UPPLIES

40 CROSBIE ROAD, PUKEKOHE

53842-V3

s 3ERVICE OF ALL FARM INDUSTRIAL AGRICULTURAL IRRIGATION AND DOMESTIC PUMPS s &ULL RANGE OF GALVANISED ALKATHENE PVC PIPES AND lTTINGS s 0OOL PUMP SALES AND SERVICE n CHEMICAL SUPPLY s "ORE PUMP DESIGN INSTALLATION AND SUPPLIES s $RAINAGE SUPPLIES s 7ATER lLTER SYSTEMS n $ESIGN AND INSTALL s "ULK SAND AND CEMENT s 7ATER TANKS n !GENT FOR 28 AND !QUA s $EEP WELL PUMP SALES AND SERVICE

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Tell us what is happening â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we want to know what you think... what you like... what you want to see in Rural Living

Be in our next issue â&#x20AC;&#x201C; booking deadline December 15 Phone 0800 456 789 s info@ruralliving.co.nz s www.ruralliving.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; November - December 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 63

Glenbrook

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Maria Davis

M: 0800 224 071 E: maria.davis@harcourts.co.nz

BCRE Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

24 Seddon St, Pukekohe, Auckland 2120 www.pukekoheproperty.co.nz

Pukekohe

87 Yates Road, Pukekohe

Tender

Trot into land banking – with income

xÊ i`À ÃÊÊNÊÊÓÊ³Ê£Ê >Ì À ÃÊÊNÊÊÓÊ Û }ÊÊNÊÊÓÊ >À>}iÃ

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Carola Hehewerth

M: 0275 973 558 E: carola.hehewerth@harcourts.co.nz

BCRE Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

24 Seddon St, Pukekohe, Auckland 2120 www.pukekoheproperty.co.nz

S

O

LD

We have SOLD 411 Karaka Road and have heaps of hot buyers that have missed out.

IF YOU WANT YOUR PROPERTY SOLD?

027 434 5563 BCRE Ltd

54241-V12

Licensed Agent REAA 2008

www.harcourts.co.nz 36a

CALL KEVIN NOW M: 0800 345 563 P: 09 238 4244 E: kevin.seymour@harcourts.co.nz

Contributor to realestate.co.nz

24 Seddon St, Pukekohe, Auckland 2120 www.pukekoheproperty.co.nz