Rural Living March-April 2018

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ruralliving.co.nz

March/April 2018

� Swiss farmer Meret • Game(s) shooter • Line of fire

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Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 1

Brought to you by members of Franklin’s

Largest Rural/Lifestyle Sales Team PUKEKOHE | TUAKAU PUKEKOHE 68 King St, PO Box 147, Pukekohe | bus. 09 238 7019 | fax. 09 238 7018 | www.barfoot.co.nz/pukekohe

Royal Easter Show

march/aprIl n EXPOS & FESTIVALS Balloons over waikato March 21-25, locations vary With so much competition out there these days, some festivals crash quicker than a led zeppelin. However, Balloons Over Waikato continues to see its success soar. While its name may seem rather self-explanatory, this five-day fest’ of high-flying fun has plenty to offer. For details see balloonsoverwaikato.co.nz.

Franklin home & lifestyle expo April 7-8, 9.30am-4.30pm & 9.30am-4pm (respectively), PIA Events Centre, 57 Ward St, Pukekohe Quite frankly, if you’re only going to attend one home and lifestyle expo in 2018, this has to be the one! While some of the bigger events are well worth a look, when it comes to a friendly fest’, Franklin lays out the welcome mat. At the heart of one of the fastest growing areas of Auckland, this event showcases the best from the big boys, but also from locals who know this delightful region best. Details via franklinexpo.co.nz.

Craig

Trudy

Brendon

021 998 605

021 898 483

027 238 6660

n EASTER TREATS Royal easter show March 29-April 2, ASB Showgrounds, 217 Green Lane West, Greenlane For more than 160 years, creatures of all sorts have hopped on over to the Royal Easter Show. In addition to circus acts of all sorts, rides and more, this event brings more than just a touch of country to town as the Super City’s rural residents hit the big smoke to lay on one heck of an A&P Show. Visit eastershow.co.nz, and to read our interview with show sheep dog trialist, Leo Jecentho, see pages 18-19.

the great pumpkin carnival April 8, 10am-2.30pm, Hamilton Gardens, Hungerford Cres (off Cobham Dr), Hamilton If you think a pumpkin is a pumpkin is a pumpkin, think again! This annual event is stuffed full of ‘fall’ fun with carving competitions, recordbreaking attempts, races, cooking demonstrations, a bouncy castle and more. Visit hamiltongardens. co.nz for more information.

2 — Rural Living — March/AprilMoore 2018 Ashby Boyce

pukekohe park wedding expo April 15, 10am-3pm, Pukekohe Park, 222-250 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe If you don’t want to go to the chapel and don’t want to be married, be sure to make other plans with your partner on April 15! With so much on offer regarding everything related to that ‘big day’, this event is sure to inspire many to take the plunge. See pukekohepark.co.nz.

amazing Maze n Maize giant easter egg hunt March 30-April 2, 11am-2pm, Amazing Maze N Maize, 833 Kingseat Rd, Karaka Prick up your ‘ears’ readers! Throughout the Easter break, there will be more to a-maze little ones in Karaka with four days of cracking good fun. See maze.co.nz.

the success of his last album I believe, Kiwi country superstar, Dennis Marsh, will be performing songs from this gospel album in a most appropriate setting, along with more of his greatest hits. With the talented assistance of the St Paul’s Choir, this Pukekohe performer promises to offer a concert to remember... and that’s the gospel truth! See bsgevents. co.nz for details. nZ Bee gees tribute show April 7, from 8pm, The Kentish Hotel, 5 Queen St, Waiuku Not all of the three Gibb lads who took the music world by storm may still be ‘Stayin’ Alive’ these days but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the music of this magnificent trio. Highly rated as one of New Zealand’s best Bee Gees tribute acts, the Gee Bees are still rockin’ strong. For more information, contact the hotel via thekentishhotel.co.nz.

n MUSIC a night to Remember with Mr dennis Marsh & the st paul’s choir April 7, St Paul’s Collegiate Chapel, 77 Hukanui Rd, Chartwell, Hamilton Marsh is marching down to ‘the Tron’! To celebrate

Sue

Stephanie

027 527 0094

027 246 7911

McCardle Alderlieste

Hunter

Utatao

027 482 2488

handel & Bach – handel consort & Quire April 8, 3-5pm, St Andrew’s Anglican Church, Cnr Queen and Wesley Sts, Pukekohe Composed to commemorate the signing of the Utrecht peace treaties – which brought 14 years of war to an end – Handel’s Utrecht Te Deum & Jubilate

Hadley

Pierce

027 480 2741

Graeme

David

021 770 733

027 485 9321

Willsonwww.ruralliving.co.nz Powell

Community Calendar TUAKAU 22 George St, Tuakau | bus. 09 237 8310 | fax. 09 237 8331 | www.barfoot.co.nz/tuakau Chop Chop Hiyaaa!

allows musicians and choirs to showcase their skills thanks to an exuberant work.

Along with Bach’s Orchestral Suite No 4, this event promises to delight fans of classical music and choral singing.

Contact the church via pukekoheanglican.org.nz. a night of Firsts April 12, from 8pm, Auckland Town Hall, Queen St, Auckland City Internationally acclaimed British composer, Mark-Anthony Turnage, tops the bill for this concert. In addition, audiences will also be treated to the premiere of Sibelius’ First Symphony, and Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No.1. It seems even famous firsts come in threes!

See apo.co.nz/whats-on for more about this and other concerts presented by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.

n THEATRE spirit level April 13 - May 5 (Thurs-Sat nights), from 8pm, Backstage Theatre, Victoria Ave, Waiuku While Jack Cameron may not have gained admission through the pearly gates, the atheist crime writer has found a little piece of heaven on earth at home in the cottage he shares with his wife (and fellow apparition), Susie. However, the couple’s spirited fun could well encounter a crisis of (a lack of) faith when real live residents move in. See waiukutheatre.org.

n ARTS hound dog group exhibition March 27-April 14 (official opening April 7), Community Gallery, Franklin Arts Centre, 12 Massey Ave, Pukekohe The artists showing their work during this exhibition may never have caught a rabbit – then again, they may have – but they’re certainly friends of man’s best friend!

Featuring a range of works inspired by

Scott

Kevin

027 210 8887

027 497 8223

www.ruralliving.co.nz Lim McElhinney

canine kind, the celebrations roar into life during an official opening (late due to Easter) on April 7, with music by DJ Hound Dog, where ‘socialised’ dogs are welcome. For details, contact the gallery via facebook.com/FranklinArtsCentre. pollok co-op easter exhibition From March 30 (opening night from 6pm), 4121 Awhitu Rd, Pollok Once again, Pollok Co-op will transform into a full art gallery for its annual Easter exhibition. With plenty of work from artists throughout our region and further afield on show, this exhibition is well worth ‘hopping’ over to the Awhitu peninsula to experience. Contact the co-op on 09 235 2225. chroma: contemporary watercolours April 14-May 19, New Zealand Steel Gallery, Franklin Arts Centre, 12 Massey Ave, Pukekohe Five watercolourists explore one of paintings most traditional (and most loved) of media, albeit with a contemporary spin. Showcasing the work of Elizabeth Crosby, Norah Johnson, Kristy Kirkpatrick, Claudia Slaney and Jon Tootill, this exhibition features a wide variety of engaging paintings. See facebook.com/FranklinArtsCentre.

n FAMILY FUN chop chop hiyaaa!

March 24, from 11am & 4pm (respectively), Clevedon Community Hall, 1 PapakuraClevedon Rd, Clevedon, and Waiuku Memorial Town Hall, Queen St, Waiuku The Auckland Arts Festival comes to Franklin as the irrepressible Anika Moa tours with her fun, cheeky, family show.

Featuring music from her Songs for Bubbas albums, Chop Chop Hiyaaa! presents a delightfully wicked world where witches, taniwha and rat ninjas take centre stage. See aucklandfestival. co.nz to read more.

Debbie

Maria

020 438 5958

021 885 703

Courtney Macpherson

Simon

Macrae

027 420 2540 Tuakau

Zirka circus April 6-8, times vary, Waiuku Primary School, George St, Waiuku There’s no need to run away to join the circus because the circus is coming to town! Presenting a new show, titled Send in the Clowns, this animal-free circus is packed with illusion, daredevil acts and graceful, often acrobatic performances.

See zirkacircus.com for details. eye on nature April 14, 11am-5pm, Auckland Botanic Gardens, 102 Hill Rd, The Gardens Take a journey through New Zealand’s native wonderland during this free family day. In addition to learning how to identify native trees and their special uses over the years – in everything from navigation and construction to providing food and medicines – visitors will discover how to protect this magnificent resource. See aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz/whats-on.

n SPORT & FITNESS Relay for life auckland south April 7, from 4pm, Bruce Pulman Park, 90 Walters Rd, Papakura Forget pulling an all-nighter at the office!

Instead, how about pushing yourself during this all night fundraiser? During this relay, participants will take their turn on track in efforts to support the hard work of the Cancer Society. More information at relayforlife.org.nz.

Murray Nick Rural LivingDawson — March/April 2018 —3 Bates Sales Manager Branch Manager

From the editor... shambles in the morning.

I shudder to think how we will all manage as housing projects around Drury and Karaka (not to mention others) come to fruition. What’s more, I don’t see congestion charging easing the situation – start time is start time and only a few companies are in a position to allow glide time or staggered working hours.

If I have to pay and still queue, the mayor and councillors, can expect plenty of backlash from this quarter. And please, please don’t talk trains; they don’t go near my work and buses are hopeless especially when I have after-work commitments.

So, on that note it’s time to depart – tonight I’m looking forward to a quick run home….just kidding, we all know what’s in store.

totally unpredictable and it’s not all about the motorway.

There was the day it took me two full hours from home to work, one hour spent entirely working my way from one end of Walters Rd (of Blackbridge Rd) to the other.

There’s generally a bit of a queue to exit onto Linwood Rd but this was the worst ever.

I like to take this route because at least on Linwood Road I have choices – motorway or head for Clevedon and over the hill to Brookby, eventually taking Sandstone Rd to Ormiston. Though I might gain only 10 minutes or so, if lucky, at least I keep moving for most of the way.

Despite the frustrations, I do commend our courteous local motorists who employ the one/one, zip effect to allow Walters Rd traffic to enter the Linwood Rd vehicle queue. Everyone is always so obliging. It must be their country manners!

Of course, I’ve tried other routes – Porchester Rd, Mill Rd even the Great South Rd – all to no avail. Really something has to be done about our access to the city – and forget going through Drury township towards the back roads; I’ve never known it to be anything but a

Helen Perry, Editor

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am about to break one of my New Year resolutions which was not to mention local traffic problems for at least six months. Well, three months down the track I just have to vent.

On March 1, after clocking up one hour on the road between Pukekohe and Flat Bush, I heard on the news that Kiwis spend and average of 80 hours a year trapped in traffic.

I think you must have heard my hysterical laughter all the way to Wellington and back. Did this report actually survey any Franklin residents travelling north daily for work?

Husband and I spend at least 2.5 hours a day, often longer, Monday to Friday, queuing, crawling, stopping and starting as we make our way to and from work. No matter what time we leave in the morning the journey seldom runs smooth.

With a regular start time of 8.30am, and a bit later on occasion, we have tried 6.50am, 7am, 7.10 (a regular time) 7.20, 7.35 and on the days when I can sometimes start at 9am, I have left at 7.50am and 8am.

If I intend to work late, I’ve even waited until 9.15am, thinking to miss most of the traffic – nothing works. Mornings are

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Wa

WhISTLES WhEN hE WoRKS: As city meets country during Auckland’s annual Royal Easter Show’s A&P events, one Waikato resident, in particular, will be hoping his dogs win by more than just a... nose.

Ahead of this year’s show (March 29-April 2), we caught up with sheep dog trialist, Leo Jecentho, to learn more about his right rural sport and discovered why a proficient working dog (such as the happy chap on this month’s cover) is indeed good to find.

See pages 18-19 to read our interview.

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info@ruralliving.co.nz Editor: Helen Perry DDI 09 271 8036 editor@ruralliving.co.nz Sales: Kate Ockelford-Green DDI 09 271 8090 kate@ruralliving.co.nz Jackie Underhill DDI 09 271 8092 jackie@ruralliving.co.nz Cathy Renolds DDI 09 271 8019 cathy@ruralliving.co.nz Art Director: Clare McGillivray DDI 09 271 8067 clare@ruralliving.co.nz Publisher: Brian Neben Level 1, The Lane, Botany Town Centre, Chapel Road, Auckland PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163 Ph: 09 271 8080

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Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 5 KAT5300

Gentle Shepherdess

Loves Living the Good Life

Its many years since Meret Horlacher walked sheep through her home village in Switzerland. She’s still a shepherdess and likes nothing better than tending to her flock.

By modern standards her way of life is time consuming and hard work but as ANGELA KEMP discovered, living the good life has its benefits.

M

eret Horlacher is 63 and had a hip replaced just before Christmas. I saw her barely a month after her op and she showed no signs of having had major surgery bar a slight limp. Apparently the day before she’d been lifting 25kg sacks of zinc which I estimate would be around half her weight!

The removed hip bone is in the fridge awaiting a decent burial when Meret will mark its final resting place with a fencepost and plaque. “It’s part of me and I didn’t want to just chuck it out or leave it in the hospital,” she remarks.

By now, readers may have come to the same conclusion as I have about this diminutive but determined woman – she’s quite a girl.

Home is a 126-acre farm east of Pukekohe, which she shares with partner Malcolm Brown along with some 100 beef cattle, a few dairy cows, horses, chickens, ducks, two llamas and a small but muchloved flock of milking sheep.

Meret insisted I taste her sheep milk, homemade soft sheep cheese and sheep milk yogurt before our interview and yes, 6 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

they were all delicious.

Thing is, I could have spent all day (and probably the next) sampling her other foods (both savoury and sweet) that she’s bottled and preserved. Because Meret is a wise woman of the old school, who doesn’t believe in waste, she uses everything that’s produced on the farm.

In one bedroom a wardrobe doubles as an overflow pantry, its shelves packed with a mind-boggling array of preserved fruit and vegetables. Dried leeks, grapes, beans and stevia, poached feijoas, dried feijoas, bottled apples and peaches, jams, chutneys and pickles stand row on row.

The produce is obviously home grown – fruit from the orchard (peach trees grown from stones by Meret), as well as apples and plums, oranges, mandarins, limes and lemons.

Tamarillos flourish in the duck pen which is presided over by elderly Rose who came from (the now defunct) Pokeno Zoo several years ago. “I used to give the zoo honey and citrus branches to hang up for the monkeys so I asked if I could have some ducks. They’d only let me have Rose because she was by herself.”

Needless to say, the couple enjoy good food all year round and what makes it taste even sweeter is that they spend less than $2000 at the supermarket per year for essentials such as olive oil, tuna, rice, flour, salt and spices.

Meret’s pieces de resistance are the cheeses and yoghurt she makes from her small flock of sheep, East Friesians with a bit of Border Leicester to strengthen the bloodlines.

They produce up to seven litres a day, more than enough for the couple’s daily needs so the surplus is turned into yogurt and cheese or frozen. Meret milks them by hand for nine months of the year and says they jostle to be first in line.

“They are absolutely gorgeous. Sheep are wonderful, you can live off them.”

Meret likes to keep the flock size manageable so each sheep can receive her personal attention – she even shears them herself.

Her cheeses are made to simple recipes and alter in taste and texture during different stages of their maturity.

“The first one is eaten very quickly and we don’t eat the second one until the first www.ruralliving.co.nz Photos Wayne Martin

one has gone, and so on. They get older and harder. We don’t make a particular cheese, we just make cheese; it’s a way of preserving the milk.”

Nothing is wasted. The whey left over from cheese-making is used in breadmaking or turned into ricotta and then perhaps used in cheesecakes. If the calves are lucky, they’ll get a whey feed too. “We just live from what we have,” Meret says.

Growing up in Switzerland, Meret’s family home was a farmhouse with just a little bit of land.

“I kept sheep but had to graze them in the surrounding orchards. Every morning after milking I would tie the three ewes and a ram together and with the kids I’d walk them to their grazing, before returning them to their stable at the end of the day. They wore bells and they missed me when I left them.”

Meret immigrated with her then husband Christof and three children, first setting up home in Howick before moving to the Harrisville farm 20 years ago.

“It was my dream to move to more land and to live a more sustainable life.”

The couple, who remain good friends, separated a few years ago but Meret was determined to carry on running the farm herself. Then five years ago love

Riding school popular with youngsters

blossomed between Meret and retired firefighter, Malcolm Brown.

“I brought my grandchildren for a riding lesson and basically never went away,” says Malcolm. “I was a professional firefighter for 41 years in and around Auckland but was raised on 600 acres in Hawkes Bay. “We came to Auckland after my dad switched to horticulture. We tried to do in Papakura what they did on Pukekohe Hill.”

Malcolm chose the fire service over a career on the land and later lived on a lifestyle block in Karaka before meeting Meret. He says Meret can’t wait to get up at 5am to go and see the sheep. After seeing to her horses and other chores she doesn’t return to the house for breakfast ‘till 8am.

“When she’s not working on the farm or cooking she’s sleeping.”

Meret Horlacher has run riding schools all her life both in Switzerland and Howick and currently has nine horses and ponies.

Recently she and partner Malcolm built a large sand area so lessons can continue even when the weather is as wet as it was last winter.

“Children come from across the district, as far away as Papakura and Onewhero. We also run a holiday programme which gives the kids a longer time to handle the horses and learn how to look after them.”

Meret’s granddaughter, Lilia (12), and her daughter-in-law, Delwyn help out with the riding school as they live just next door.

Meret now plans to develop the facility further by enlarging a pond so the children can enjoy the fun of riding through the shallows.

And, true to her nature, she has promised a home to two rescued Kaimanawa ponies from the this year’s muster. In no way does she look like slowing down!

KAT5206

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Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 7

The cat who came to stay If you recognise Jessie from the photo, and have worried about her over the past four years, you are welcome to come and visit. But you can’t have her back! She’s well settled here.

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

COUNTRY LAD

J

ust as I sat down to write this month’s Country Lad (who is now 80!) the power went off. Not that I wasn’t warned; we had received notification from Counties Power that this would happen but once the letter was filed on the fridge door with a magnet, it was completely forgotten.

Of course, when everything shut off, it caused quite a few anxious moments as having no power closes our rural home down almost completely. My wife was just leaving for the office when we realised we couldn’t use the remote to open our electric garage doors. Never having experienced this problem before, we then had to figure out how to open them manually. We managed to do so but only after some time.

I then went for a shower but….no water!

Our water is electrically pumped into the house. There was no computer either and no landline phone. Thank goodness for cell phones – at least I could stay in touch with the outside world.

The shutdown came just as my breakfast porridge was ready to go into the microwave; thankfully the barbecue has a side burner so popped the porridge into a pot and heated it there. I must say it seemed to cook better than in the microwave.

Luckily, we also have an old whistling

kettle which we keep filled with water so I was also able to boil this and make a pot of coffee. What’s more, I needed it as the power wasn’t resumed until about 3.30pm.

Now, for my tale this month. It’s about our stray cat, who we named Jessie. She has now been with us for more than four years. I wrote about her at the time I found her on the edge of the road in Runciman.

She was hiding in the long grass and appeared to be in very poor condition and was also very frightened.

I took her some food which she ate hungrily. After about two days, I managed to catch her and bring her up to the house.

Fortunately, she appeared to be quite domesticated and loved to be patted and held. It seemed obvious she had been well loved so we took her to Town and Country Vets in the hope that she was microchipped. No such luck.

We also advertised on Lost Pets and spread the word up and down our road.

Although two families, who had lost their cats, rushed to our house in excitement,

they were disappointed to find Jessie was not theirs.

I am writing this now because Jessie is such a lovely cat and, because I feel she must have been well loved and sorely missed, I thought the owners might, by chance, read this column. I want them to know she has been extremely well cared for and has had a great cat’s life.

The vet estimates she is now about 16 years plus so, it’s possible she won’t be a around for many years longer.

If you recognise Jessie from the photo, and have worried about her over the past four years, you are welcome to come and visit. But you can’t have her back! She’s well settled here.

Now on to horses and a hot tip for harness racing fans – one of our Rural Living ‘name the foal’ horses, Willedu, has had a great start to the year with three wins. Although a little bit unpredictable, he’s going great and I’m hoping he’ll go even better! Keep an eye on him and…go the Chiefs!

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Aliens have landed ‘Emerging aliens’ are threatening New Zealand, a Lincoln University professor asserts.

“We need to make sure our biosecurity system is sufficiently flexible and wellresourced to deal with unexpected incursions by species we probably will know nothing about,” says Professor Philip Hulme.

While this may not be a War of the Worlds scenario, the threat of invasion by little green beings is very real. Prof Hulme’s warning follows his work as part of an international collaboration of scientists, which analysed sightings of invasive animal and plant species around the world over the last five centuries.

Results found no evidence of a slowdown in the number of new pests and weeds emerging, in fact a quarter of new pest incursions were from species that had never before been recorded as being invasive, he announced.

“If we look at the pests and weeds already in New Zealand, most have come from Europe, Australia or North America, our traditional trade partners and sources

of immigration. However, Asia is now becoming more important to both trade and immigration, and this is where many new pests and weeds appear to be coming from.”

“The responsibility rests with all of us: government, industry, the public, and every tourist who crosses our borders.

We all need to be vigilant, understand the risks and act in a way that minimises the chances of any new pest or disease making its way to our shores.”

pokeno a Go, daIry co eXpects While Pokeno may be ‘world famous in Franklin’ for its ice-cream, demand from a much ‘smaller’ dairy market sector could result in a new cash cow for the region.

Synlait plans to invest $260 million in development of a new manufacturing site, the dairy processing company’s CEO, John Penno, confirms. The site will help Synlait meet a growing demand for infant formula. “We want to partner with dairy farmers who are excited to do more with their milk,” he says. “We’re really excited to bring these opportunities to the Waikato.”

Synlait is inviting potential suppliers from Waikato to register their interest via synlait.com. However, plans are still (somewhat) in their infancy until all consents and approvals – including that of the Overseas Investment Office – have been finalised.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

rodeo rIdes on It seems mommas can still let their sons (and daughters) grow up to be cowboys, for the time being at least. While Associate Agriculture Minister, Meka Whaitiri, says animal welfare issues surrounding rodeos will be addressed further, an outright ban of the sport is not part of the plan.

“I acknowledge there is public concern about the use of animals in rodeos, at the same time there are number of communities in New Zealand where rodeos are a well-attended annual event,” the Minister said recently.

“I have asked NAWAC [the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee] to fast track further advice on rodeos this year. In the meantime, the Ministry for Primary Industries continues to enforce current animal welfare requirements, and investigates any complaints.”

As it stands, rodeos must operate under the Animal Welfare Act 1999 and relevant codes of welfare. Such codes prohibit activities such as pyrotechnic displays and sheep riding events, and a veterinarian and animal welfare officer must be present.

“I expect all rodeo events and participants to comply fully with their obligations under the Animal Welfare Act, regulations and the code of welfare for rodeos,” Ms Whaitiri adds.

more pork abroad Kiwis of unacceptable ‘character’ may not consider Australia to be all that ‘fair’; however, at least those who are permitted to remain will soon be able to sample a certain taste of home, providing they’re prepared to make pigs for themselves, that is.

Recently, Jarred Mair from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) confirmed New Zealand pork will be on the menu across the ditch thanks to a deal struck between the Ministry and Australia’s Department of Agriculture and Water Resources.

“Australia is already a very important market for New Zealand’s primary products,” he says. “We’re pleased to be able to add pork and pork products to the list.”

As, until now, our pork exports have been limited to a small number of markets, access to Australian tables could prove quite the boon for the industry, Mr Mair expects.

Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 9

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ranklin Local Board chair, Angela Fulljames, is the first woman in the board’s six-year history to hold the post. Also a wife and mother of two, the Clevedon resident is used to juggling family and work but says it calls for versatility and flexibility.

Reflecting on her election 15 months ago she says: “I said to myself then, if I spent more than three full days in the office behind the computer, I wouldn’t be doing my role justice. Getting out meeting people and working with board members, our support team, ward councillors and council officers to continually learn what is happening in our communities, is important to me. When I took on the role, I declared to work in Franklin’s best interest and that’s what I strive to do.”

Keen to know more about this busy chair, Rural Living asked Angela to share her thoughts on Franklin’s future.

Pukekohe and Drury-Paerata Structure Plans are in progress. These will identify commercial areas and developers already focused on commercial sites.

The 10-year budget which proposes financing growth infrastructure is out for consultation and closes on March 28.

At the end of April the Land Transport Strategy will also be released for public consultation. I encourage Franklin people to make submissions to support our advocacy work. Deputy Mayor and Franklin councillor, Bill Cashmore is taking a lead role working with the new government to keep the Auckland Transport Alignment Project alive; this includes the full Mill Road corridor.

communities that were a mix of permanent and holiday residents transitioning to become almost fully permanent living. More people are also commuting from Waikato and Hauraki to Auckland, an indication that people are purchasing where they can afford no matter the personal cost.

I suspect their quality of life is reduced due to long periods of travel; the impact on people’s health and wellbeing personally concerns me but I don’t see one solution to the problem. Changes are needed across all facets such as the way we build, what we build, where, and how it is financed from infrastructure down to first home buyers seeking a mortgage.

While there are more housing estates in the pipeline, is there enough local commercial and industrial growth to cater for a rapidly growing population?

Some would argue that while council is standardising rates, access to services can never be standardised. Rates-wise, are Frankliners paying too much?

New subdivisions are cropping up locally; what steps is Franklin Local Board taking to ensure our infrastructure will cope with issues such as congested rural roads and on-flow to the motorway?

The board has very good relationships with the Waiuku, Pukekohe, Waiau Pa and Clevedon Business Associations and we get information from ATEED economic barometers. Listening to business owners is key and there has been good input on the two structure plans.

The board is presently refreshing our Local Economic Development Plan so we can direct what funds we have to achieving the best outcome. In the draft Auckland Plan 2050, one of the outcomes is Opportunity and Prosperity which is focused on employment growth, productivity, skills and talent. This is out for consultation until March 28; I encourage Franklin residents and business owners to comment at www.akhaveyoursay.nz.

Whether we agreed with the merge or not, we are all a part of Auckland, therefore, the ability to raise funds, due to the critical mass of Auckland, trickles out to all of us. For example, if the Environment Target rate goes through, then Franklin will benefit from the contribution of other parts of Auckland. Some $116m has been put into the upgrade of water services and around $500m for new sewage plants for Pukekohe which shows the benefit of being part of Auckland’s scale. On our own, the scale of these sorts of projects wouldn’t be achievable.

The board’s role is to strongly advocate, ensuring we communicate effectively and develop good working relationships with CCOs (Council Controlled Organisations) such as Auckland Transport, council’s governing body, and the Government through the NZ Transport Agency.

NZTA has engaged regularly with the board and with our communities and businesses to make improvements on State Highway 22 and add extra lanes, which, with our feedback, will now continue to Bombay. We are in regular contact with Auckland Transport to provide a rural perspective to any policies or plans.

Rural road safety and road surfaces are always a concern to us and, it is fair to say, we are seeing pressure on these and, sometimes, conflict between motorists and heavy vehicle businesses trying to keep up with Auckland’s building demand.

There is no denying there will be more traffic, so in addition to road improvements, we need to encourage car sharing and more public transport options.

Having more work opportunities closer to home would, of course, lessen the load on peak city commuting. Currently, the 10 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

What about car parking in Pukekohe. Are there any plans for a car park to serve the King Street precinct or any other area?

A car park assessment is being undertaken

by Auckland Transport to understand where the pressure is and when and, with our projected population, be able to act with good information.

With the housing market flattening a little, could we end up with more houses than people wanting to live in Franklin?

I’m no economist, but in the past four years we have seen some Franklin

In the past, you had the arts and heritage portfolio; considering Franklin is home to many artists, what plans are there to boost our region as a hub of culture?

In the last term of 2014, the arts community highlighted inequalities when compared to other activities such as sports and recreation. In response, the board boosted its support and has funded an arts broker along with various projects which have been successful in developing artists, an Arts Trail and actioning more projects and opportunities in our communities.

We invest in the NZ Steel Gallery which includes work from local, established and emerging artists. We help the regional public art programme in scoping new installation sites and promote council’s art philosophy of including art into daily life. www.ruralliving.co.nz

not become buried under concrete. Is enough of our region’s most arable land is being protected?

The Unitary Plan defines the rural urban boundary and the Future Urban Land Supply signals the timing of development over the next 30 years. Decisions made in the past to develop housing on fertile soils cannot be undone. Going forward we are being very careful to ensure Franklin can continue to produce food for Auckland and NZ. Reverse sensitivity, where the lifestyle of residential living conflicts with grower operations, is an issue that needs attention. In the draft Auckland 30-year plan it has, through our advocacy, been stated in a section as “must be managed”.

If you could grow any plant or raise any animal what and why?

I love fruit trees, they constantly change – flowers, new green leaves, autumn colours and skeletal forms; then there is the anticipation of how much fruit they will bear. I’d also like to grow more roses and floral foliage. Normally, I might want to raise an animal, but years of Ag days has left me wanting some time out for now.

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

Franklin Local Board chairman, Angela Fulljames.

Council has invested in a huge upgrade of the Pukekohe train station but are train ticket prices cost-effective in attracting the commuter market? Are enough Frankliners who work outside the area taking advantage of rail?

I am a public transport convert. When I started in politics I drove into town. I rarely do so now preferring to use the train or the ferry. Compared to paying for petrol, adding mileage and wear and tear to my car, parking costs and being unable to do something more productive (or enjoyable) with time spent in a car are things to factor into the value of public transport travel.

More added value services are being scoped such as Click and Collect groceries at train stations and coffee outlets. We’ll be www.ruralliving.co.nz

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watching the outcome of these so we can bring added value to Franklin and help our commuters travel as easily as possible.

Once Pukekohe has electric trains, the station work has been completed, and there are stations at Paerata and Drury, the overall experience will be improved and I’m sure trains will be used more. Ferry trips cost more than the train, but are a well-used mode of transport for Wairoa communities. Given that Auckland is flanked by two harbours, I’m a advocate of making more use of our blue highway.

The board will continue to advocate for improved facilities and equity in fares.

Last year, Deputy Mayor, Bill Cashmore, told Rural Living that ‘the most productive’ land in Franklin would

Barrack Obama – I’d like to learn more about his earlier life, how he came through the ranks and how his early years influenced his role as president. He comes across as a really approachable guy who’d have some good stories to tell.

Angela Merkel – as a woman leader in a male dominated environment, handling complex issues, it would be good to get her perspective of women in politics.

Guillermo Penalosa – Chair of the World Urban Parks. I’d like to hear about his work as the Commissioner of Parks for the City of Bogota where he created car-free Sundays to connect kilometres of pavement into temporary extensions of the city’s parks. That would be very interesting.

If you could be Auckland Mayor for one day, what would you do first and why?

And, what would you do with Phil Goff?

I would visit each local board area to understand the challenges and opportunities. This would probably take more like two weeks than a day given there are 21 local boards. Phil needs to stay where he is and keep the good leadership going.

Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 11

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hen Kiwis flew to Feilding to give some games a go – from gumboot and cow pat tossing to wine barrel racing – the final word was reserved for serious sport sorts at the recent, annual Rural Games.

Four-time Golden Shears champ’, Napier’s John Kirkpatrick, was named Rural Sportsman of the Year, while fencing legend, Paul van Beers (Hawke’s Bay) won the inaugural Lifetime Legacy Award.

Fellow fencing great, Franklin’s own Nick Liefting, was a finalist in the Contribution to the New Zealand Rural Sports Industry category, taken out by Jude McNabb from Shearing Sport’s NZ. The roll of honour also featured rodeo star, Tegan O’Callaghan (Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year), and Morrinsville’s Chrissy Spence (a five-time world champion tree climber) named Rural Sportswoman of the Year.

The games themselves saw plenty more accolades claimed in events ranging from speed milking and olive stone spitting, to harness racing, tractor pulls and sheep dog trials.

Notable performances from Frankliners included Waikaretu’s Emily Welsh who placed second (to Laura Bradley, Wairarapa) during the women’s speed shear; axeman, Jesse Whitehead from Waiuku finished seventh in the Trans-Tasman Wood Chopping Championship, won by Shane Jordan from Taranaki.

Capping off the games, the Rural Sports Awards were presented courtesy of a judging panel chaired by Games Trust board member and former All Black World Cup-winning coach, Sir Brian Lochore.

“We had a fantastic line-up of entrants and finalists for each category,” he said. “Our 2018 winners have proven themselves on the field of their rural sport or in the committee room organising rural sporting events around New Zealand.”

For more information regarding winners of the sports awards and games as a whole, see ruralgames.co.nz.

12 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

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From left: signs of bumblefoot – swelling, black scab, Blackberry after her treatment.

Bumblefoot awareness Dr Sarah Clews, BVSc, BSc Bumblefoot is an infection of the foot in birds, which enters through damaged skin. You may see varying signs from red swelling all the way to crippling lameness and deformity.

Owners may also notice black scabs on the bottom of your bird’s foot, trapping the infection beneath and resulting in a core of dead tissue. Antibiotics are required early to fight the infection, and your hen should be kept on dry, soft bedding during recovery.

Bumblefoot progresses through four stages: 1. The foot simply looks red and swollen, but tissue is still soft and the bird may or may not show obvious signs of pain.

2. Black scabs are obvious on the most weight-bearing aspects of the foot. Pus and dead tissue will form beneath the scab and your bird will likely show pain at this stage.

3. The infection spreads to the bone and surrounding soft tissues, causing deformity, severe lameness, immobility and weight loss.

Depending on the stage, your bird may require foot baths, surgical removal of the dead tissue, antibiotics, pain relief and bandaging.

If severely progressed, euthanasia may be recommended.

Causes and prevention

Heavier breeds and male birds are most susceptible, however, the cause of bumblefoot is often multifactorial and requires environmental modification.

Here are some easy ways to support healthy feet in your flock: n Perches should be 40-50cm high. Any higher can cause excessive weight on the feet when landing. n Avoid rough perches that may cause splinter injuries n Ensure the ground beneath roosts is not hard, rocky or

rough; aim for gentle landing. n Be conservative when nail trimming to avoid wounds n Ensure dry bedding; walking around on wet, soiled bedding for long periods can cause ulceration and poor skin health n Regularly check the area for sharp objects or rocky ground that can cause damage n Regularly check of your chickens’ feet to ensure early identification of infection n Ensure a balanced diet, appropriate to the life-stage: – Protein levels should be 20-22% for growing chicks, but only 16-18% for adults.

Limit starchy foods such as bread.

–E nsure a healthy supply of Vitamin A. Sources include fresh fruit and vegetables and can be supplemented with spirulina powder sprinkled over food. Seeds and grain do not contain effective levels of vitamin A.

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n Continue to monitor facial eczema spore counts and ensure cattle, sheep and alpaca are protected with oral zinc. In most situations, zinc boluses provide the most reliable protection. n Parasite challenge becomes high in autumn with warm, wet weather.

Ensure an effective control strategy is in place. This may involve treatment with drenches. n Flystrike in sheep remains a risk during the warm weather. Prevent with shearing, protective sprays, and good parasite control.

–C alcium levels should be fed at 4-5% in layers, this high level is inappropriate for young, growing chicks.

Other internal disease such as digestive system upset, infection or other recurrent illnesses can also predispose to Bumblefoot.

Book in with your vet for a full check-up, or for a flock health consult at your property.

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Nailing autumn jobs O

wning land of any size always comes with maintenance issues and that’s why it pays to make the most of good weather when it comes along.

With that in mind, local lifestylers can count their blessings that autumn weather is still warm and mild so, waste not, want not – get on to those essential tasks before the wet and cold sets in.

First up, think fences, especially if you own animals. Ensure all fencing is in good repair – renew entirely if necessary; a new fence is much easy to maintain in winter than one that is starting to show real signs of age. Mend slackening wires and fix loose boards.

Ensure all machinery and tools are serviced, clean and stored where they are dry and at hand. Ensure storage sheds are as rodent proof as possible; place bait traps if you think there is a problem.

Remember to clean tools after use and to put away properly. You don’t want to find them lying outside, rusting in the rain just

when they are needed most.

Be sure power tools are also in good working order and check tractor batteries too; it’s a good idea to have tractors fully serviced ahead of winter – having a tractor ‘die’ just when you’re about to feed out silage or hay is no fun.

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Spraying for and/or grubbing out weeds is an ongoing task. Wind can make spraying difficult but granules can be used for spot application on weeds such as ragwort and a good, old fashioned, double-ended grubber would prove a god-send when dastardly weeds burst forth.

Use one for winkling out thistles and ragwort and use the wide end to deal to gorse, blackberry and flannel weed before it becomes established and needs more radical treatment.

There is a long list of plants poisonous to livestock including some common in urban gardens so, if new to the land, be

Septic tanks and multi-stage septic systems are delicately balanced environments. It does not take much to upset them. Common practice is to ignore the septic system until problems occur. Good practice is to always keep your septic system well maintained.

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sure to compile a check list and don’t overlook plant matter such as oleander, rhododendrons, buttercups, foxgloves, acorns from oak trees, pine needles and many more which may surprise.

Finally, never throw domestic weeds and cuttings into paddocks – it’s very likely there may be something poisonous to your animals buried within.

On the other hand, dead autumn leaves can be a useful source of carbon for the garden so be sure to compost. Where leaves are the type to break down slowly, layer thinly and add a bit of fresh manure to help the process.

For small block owners, who have considerable livestock, this may be a time

to cull big eaters especially if you think feed might fall short over winter. Most animals should be in good condition after the summer so now could be the time to reap rewards. And talking of feed, check stocks to ensure you have plenty to take you through winter.

With that list of tasks, new lifestylers might think they are done – but there are many other important jobs to attend to, septic tanks for one. Don’t wait for winter to find out your septic tank needs emptying and cleaning – add that little job to your autumn check list. Finally, be aware it is mid-March so get cracking and hope the good weather continues; that way you’ll get the jobs done.

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Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 17

Leader of the pack We all know that dogs are (wo)man’s best friend but the bond between working dogs and their owners is something special. ANGELA KEMP met up with one of New Zealand’s top sheep dog trialists.

t

he day I met Leo Jecentho he’d just come down from mustering ‘a mob’ of 5000 ewes to lower pastures. He had help, of course? I enquired. “Sure”, he replied. “Me on a quad and six dogs.”

He’s a softly-spoken man with a placid nature who clearly loves his work nearly as much as his dogs. Work is running the 7000 acre Waikoha Station where dogs and master are kept busy farming 9000 sheep on the property’s challenging terrain.

About 30km south-east of Raglan, the station is dissected by the Kapamahunga Ranges and has magnificent limestone outcrops and sweeping views across to Hamilton.

Leo’s a relative newcomer to the Waikato arriving seven years ago after a lengthy tenure on a station at Cape Reinga.

He grew up on his parent’s sheep and beef farm near Kaitaia in Northland where the die for his future was firmly cast.

“I helped out on it as a kid but after school I went to work as a shepherd at another station. I was 16 when I got my first dog but had worked with my dad’s dogs before that; dogs were just a part of life. I love dogs.”

He has lost count of the number of sheepdogs he’s had over the past 40-plus years and the number of prizes he’s won in sheep dog trials the length and breadth of the country. However, Leo does recall being supreme champion at the Easter Show trials two years ago and runner-up last year. “I can’t remember how many times I’ve competed or how many times I’ve won, but I know it’s quite a few.”

Judging by the amount of ribbons hanging in his living room (enough to decorate a Maypole) his memory is correct. Leo also runs the sheep dog trials for the Waikato A&P Show and is hoping to score a trifecta at this year’s Royal Easter Show (March 23-April 3) encompassing the Auckland Agricultural & Pastoral Show.

Leo says his best dog currently is Smoke, a three-year-old bred by legendary Kaitaia trial-blazer Merv Cameron. He’ll be partnered with Scott for the Easter Show trials.

Patience and hard work is what makes a

18 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

Above, Looking through fence, puppies Sarge and Ace. Left: Leo’s pet dog Ruby the Schnauzer Right: Leo with heading dogs Prince and Smoke.

good sheepdog says Leo although not all dogs make the grade no matter how good the teacher. Training can take up to three and a half years for heading dogs, sometimes longer for Huntaways. Training starts as soon as the dogs show an interest in sheep, anytime from four to five months of age.

“You’ve got to spend time with them every day. It doesn’t have to be for long, five minutes is long enough with a young pup. The dogs love the work and what makes it for me is watching them improving all the time.”

Come the trials, luck plays no small part in how well a dog performs.

“It can all depend on the sheep on the day. You can have the best dogs but the sheep that come out are the worst of the day. You never think you are top dog because there is always someone waiting

round the corner to knock you off.”

While dogs will never be replaced for the work they do on the farm, the number of people competing in sheep dog trials continues to dwindle. Leo says his local club has just eight members with only three of them actively participating.

“It’s slowly dying out and I don’t know what the future holds for trialling. The young ones are just not coming through although there are a few interested. Going further north, there are a number of clubs which have fallen over.”

Dogs and rugby have been Leo’s lifetime passions but since his rugby playing days ended he’s devoted himself to breeding, raising and training some of the finest sheepdogs in the world. It’s that competitiveness that has made him so successful in the trials.

It’s clear that the affection is mutual between Leo and his dogs. Watching him work them is a sight to behold and one you shouldn’t miss if you’re attending the Easter Show.

I can’t end without mentioning Leo’s schnauzer, Ruby. She’s his ‘pet’ and goes to all the trials where she loves to watch the other dogs working their butts off while she takes it easy. Yes, it’s a dog’s life on Waikoha Station for sure. www.ruralliving.co.nz

❝

You’ve got to spend time with them every day. It doesn’t have to be for long, five minutes is long enough with a young pup. The dogs love the work and what makes it for me is watching them improving all the time.”

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 19

Silver bullet available now,

– lead shot still needed

By Ditch Keeling, Coastal Pest Solutions

I

t was March 1997. We were all sitting around the dining table on Motuihe Island planning the island’s imminent rabbit eradication when the boss’ cell phone went off.

I remember it vividly for two reasons: one, the cell phone was a ‘brick’, the type that took up half the table and, two, I had never seen such a serious look on the boss’ face as he put the phone down and addressed the room.

“Lads, calici virus has just been illegally released in the South Island.”

For me it was one of those moments you will always remember where you were and when you heard it.

The news changed my career path on the spot as I’ve pretty much worked with rabbits ever since that day.

Six months later we were back living on Motutapu and chasing the last wallabies on Rangitoto. We all roared into the garden on motorbikes after work and were settling into cups of tea when one of the boys said, “I haven’t seen many rabbits the last few days.”

The room went silent; we all immediately realised that he was right, we hadn’t seen any rabbits in any of the usual places riding to and from Rangitoto.

Calici had been released on Motutapu by persons unknown and the population had crashed overnight. A week later the media was reporting deaths of domestic rabbits at nearby Musick Point on the Bucklands Beach peninsula.

Subsequently, I followed the course of calici around the country and undertook a case study looking at the predator prey

Ditch (left) collecting bunnies on Motuihe Island during the first release of calici virus in 1997.

switching effect which occurs when feral cats are suddenly denied their usual prey source (in this case, rabbits).

It was fascinating stuff showing an increased risk to any threatened species where they occurred close to wild rabbit populations.

Now, 20 years later, we have seen the patchy nature of viral kills right across the country – a sudden and localised die-off of rabbits followed by a gradual increase back to normal numbers.

Every year, or so, the calici virus still cycles through the highest densities of rabbits but fails to kill enough rabbits to make any long-term difference in overall numbers. This is due to the inherent immunity factor that viruses must have to ensure the virus itself does not die out, and also to the fast recovery rates achieved by rabbits’ year-round breeding cycles.

Current data on the new version of the virus RHDV1-K5 in Australia is showing kills

ranging from between 40%-80%. This is a real problem as we know that unless you are taking better than 80% of a population in one go, complete recovery will be achieved inside one to two years, with higher immunity in the population every subsequent season.

For many land owners, even small numbers of rabbits cause unacceptable levels of damage and I suspect the new virus will not change this.

Viruses spread best through very high numbers; those with hundreds will be left with 20% or more and those with low numbers will not see any real decline.

The best advice at this point is to hope for the best but plan to follow up with manual control i.e. shooting and fumigation. The best case scenario will be achieving higher than usual levels of control by putting the work into whatever rabbits remain after the new virus has passed through.

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20 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

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What’s up with D. O’C...

Whatever the weather thrown at New Zealand, our dear Damien (that’s Damien O’Connor, Minister for Agriculture, Biosecurity and Rural Communities to the rest of you!) is often in the eye of the storm. As these little ditties (based on some recent reports from the Minister’s office) reveal, this can result in many hours of... Labour.

Urban v rural – long division?

Macro stance on Myco B

While one party campaigned (in part) on bridging a supposed division between rural and urban New Zealanders, another one – the one that won, even though they were the second most popular – claims no such division exists.

Recently, Damien O’Connor (as Minister for Agriculture) concluded that results of the New Zealanders’ Views of the Primary Sector survey show rural and urban Kiwis are in accord with regards to many primary sector concerns.

“It was pleasing to see those surveyed felt very strongly that responding to key issues such as climate change and biosecurity were the responsibility of all New Zealanders,” he said.

“It looks like we’re getting on the same page and that’s important as we drive a new strategic direction for the primary sector.”

Results revealed “a sharp increase” – compared to a similar survey in 2008 – in urban respondents who said everyone should have access to services and would pay more if it meant rural people could access them at a reasonable cost, Mr O’Connor added.

While 53 percent of rural people surveyed noted water quality as ‘the most significant environmental issue facing New Zealand’, compared with 47 percent of

When Mycoplasma bovis (M. Bovis) began breaking out, the then governing party soon started on efforts to contain this potentially devastating disease.

Unfortunately, despite the efforts of former Minister for Primary Industries, Nathan Guy, M. Bovis has spread.

Now, in association with industry – including DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb New Zealand and the Meat Industry Association – Mr O’Connor has announced that fresh funds to the tune of $85 million will help check this right rural pain in the milk market.

“This has been a particularly challenging time for everyone and in particular those caught up in this disease. The animal tracing to determine the spread is ongoing... [But] I am heartened by the industry contribution as we work together to give ourselves the best possible shot of getting rid of this disease.”

M. Bovis was first discovered last July in the South Island, and, in December, Hastings as well, although it has not been found in our regions. Including mastitis, abortion, pneumonia and arthritis, it causes serious health issues among cows.

Information evenings have been held nationwide with testing kits supplied to farmers.

For details see mpi.govt.nz.

“It looks like we’re getting on the same page and that’s important as we drive a new strategic direction for the primary sector.” urbanites, both groups were also similarly concerned about threats to biosecurity from pests and disease (rural 88%, urban 87%).

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Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 21

Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit ruralliving.co.nz and enter this month's code – RLAPR6532. One entry per person/email address; entries close April 30, 2018. Winner notified by phone or email.

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Our ‘fur babies’ deserve the best and, if your cats are like those of a certain Rural Living writer, they darn well expect it too!

Available in three flavours – Tuna, Tuna & Salmon, and chicken – the Dine Creamy Treats range is tailored to kitties with sophisticated tastes. So, if you want your cats to continue to work hard at their demanding role as the world’s finest moochers, make sure you inspire them with DINE! To make one (or more) cat’s dinner that’s definitely is not a dog’s breakfast, we have a prize pack (features FIVE multipacks) of these treats up for grabs.

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22 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

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When taking a shot at the heavyweight championship of the world or simply trying to stay in shape, powdered supplements can be helpful but, if they’re not blended to perfection, they can leave a bad taste in the mouth. Thankfully, Big George Foreman has a tricky solution, a blender that can be used on the go.

Dishwasher safe, the SuppMix (RRP $49.99) can be charged via micro USB and, thanks to its high speed motor, there will be no need to shake it ‘till you make it any longer!

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Billed as ‘pastoral yet gritty, sweet but with a sting’, this work shows that you can’t (necessarily) judge a book by its cover. In this, her latest collection of poetry, Anna Jackson describes everything from uneasy nights out with dead Russian poets, to dalliances with German gasfitters and emotionally fraught games of badminton. Thanks to the good folk at Auckland University Press, we have THREE copies up for grabs. ◆ Anna Jackson: Pasture and Flock | RRP $34.99 | Auckland University Press

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The best of home ideas H

ey readers – it’s home show time! Yes, the third annual Franklin Home and Lifestyle Expo is about to hit town so be quick and mark April 7-8 on your calendar.

With some 130 exhibitors taking part there’s sure to be something for everyone who comes along to the PIA Event Centre, Ward Street Pukekohe.

Bigger and more popular than ever, this year’s Expo sees new stalls including an Artisan Market featuring a large range of hand crafted products ranging from jewellery through to hand built wooden toys, indoor and outdoor art and furniture.

For those planning to build or renovate, there’s a fantastic line-up of Franklin’s top home builders, products and services so bring along your plans or ideas and talk to some of the industry leaders about how you can make your dream home become a reality.

Two brand new, state of the art kitchens, built especially for the Expo, will also be on display, their designers and cabinetmakers

on hand to help with any questions and to provide tips on how to go through the process of choosing the right layout for you.

Once again there will be live music from local entertainers playing each day, from 10am through to mid afternoon, in the

EXPO

FRANKLIN

Rural Living’s stand at last year’s Expo – the team will be their again this year.

7-8 APRIL 2018 PIA EVENT CENTRE WARD ST PUKEKOHE

food court marquee where visitors can also enjoy good food while relaxing to some laid back tunes.

Free face painting will available for the kiddies making this a real family day out.

What’s more, mums and dad are sure Continued on page 25

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Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 23

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24 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Continued from page 23

Expo hours:

Saturday, April 7 9.30am-4.30pm; Sunday April 8, 9.30am-4pm.

Entry, $8 adults; $7 Gold Card; U15 free accompanied by an adult. www.franklinexpo.co.nz for more info.

to love the door prize of $1000 cash to be won by a lucky Expo visitor – no strings attached.

If it’s outdoors you’re interested in there’s plants, landscaping supplies, gardening tools, lawnmowers and garden art right through to wooden gates, fencing materials and even locally produced organic garden fertilisers along with plenty of expert advice on how to action your landscaping decisions.

Readying your home for a cosy winter will be easily sorted, too – see a comprehensive display of heat pumps, carpet and curtains all on offer at superb Expo prices from local businesses. Be sure to stop by and check out hot Expo deals on beds too.

So, whether you’re looking for inspiration to improve your home, seeking advice on how to go about building the home of your dreams, securing a good deal on a new car or simply looking for a relaxing day out, make sure you head into the Franklin Home & Lifestyle Expo on April 7 & 8 – you’re sure to love the warm community spirit that the district is lucky enough to enjoy.

Come and see us at Stand #40 at the Franklin Home & Lifestyle Expo

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Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 25

Congestion frustration!

Typical motorway congestion for Frankliners on any day of the working week.

Reay Neben is a Franklin resident and publisher of Rural Living.

CITY LASS

I

t is the end of March and we are already heading into the fourth month of the year but what a wonderful summer we have had especially as I’ve been putting in a lot of new plants.

The growing has been amazing and I haven’t had to spend every evening holding the hose. When the water tanks got a bit low, as is normal over summer, we had those huge downpours which filled the tanks again.

I must say it is a bit of a relief with temperatures now dropping a couple of degrees but the thought of being cold is not something I look forward to. I don’t like the short days either and, sadly, daylight saving is about to end. Oh dear, I think I have the autumn blues.

Our daughter has returned to Dubai after being home for five weeks. Her husband came over for the last week she was here but now our house is quiet and back to normal….that is, until our Pukekohe daughter sells her house and moves in with us while her new tiny house is being built. Such fun.

Now for a groan – lately, when talking to anyone who has been a resident out this way for a while, most conversations have turned to how bad the traffic is. To make matters worse, the other morning I left the Patamahoe roundabout and reached the motorway at Karaka one hour later.

The traffic was stopped at Paddock to Pantry (corner of Linwood and Blackbridge Roads) and just didn’t move. While sitting, I had a text from my pilates instructor who passed me going the other way. She had seen the queue as she travelled home from Papakura and just hoped my day would improve!

Recently, we’ve also made several trips to the airport to drop off or pick up family and even on a Sunday afternoon it took us an hour to the airport because the motorway was at a standstill. Living out south is great but this building of more and more houses has to stop while something is done about the roads and not in 30 years time.

It is just ridiculous that with more subdivisions coming to Waiuku, Glenbrook, Patumahoe, Paerata and, of

course, Pukekohe, commuters must make do with the same roads. Public transport may be wonderful but buses use the roads and trains don’t exist anywhere near us other than the vintage rail and of course the steel mill, so no use to me.

Yes, there is a service from Pukekohe – great if you work on route, not so great when you work off route, such as in Botany. Furthermore, my daughter lives up the hill from Pukekohe’s railway station and it is impossible to get a park outside her house during the week as the whole street is taken up by train users. Where is the provision for parking?

Well, that’s my moan for the month but as I say, it is now a major topic of conversation and despair! Of course, the ideal is to live and work locally but for most of us, that just isn’t an option.

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roses...

Coming up Country living frequently calls for easy wear, casual clothes with a dash of panache – Madly Sweetly delivers with this range of autumn florals offering plenty of mix and match options.

Use layering to tackle any weather while still looking chic but, once out of the cold, any one of these comfy tops which make the ‘Fleur and Denim’ look easy to achieve, are sure to cheer.

So, out of the way winter, Madly Sweetly is coming through with a collection to suit town and country – it positively blooms!

new technology Natasha Harris of Alberts Hair Salon talks about the new Cezanne smoothing treatments.

O

ur Keratin smoothing service delivers extraordinary results with no trade-offs but with increasing demand to have smoother more manageable hair, Alberts has been searching for new technology, which gives clients the best results possible.

Not only do we still have Kerastraight for our Keratin blow dry service, we have also introduced Cezanne Express and Classic treatments to our service options. These give clients a choice without compromise. ◆◆Cezanne smoothing treatment is 100% formaldehydefree. For that matter, it is also free from any other kinds of aldehydes and harmful toxins and it is long-lasting. ◆◆Hypo-allergenic and dermatologically-tested, it won’t irritate the scalp or release any noxious gases. Hair is strengthened through the use of revolutionary low pH technology which restores bonds that are broken or damaged during thermal, mechanical or high pH services. ◆◆Cezanne’s unique blend of ingredients is non-toxic, naturally safe, and effective. There are no vapors or fumes – it’s nature’s way of smoothing. ◆◆Contains active ingredients such as aloe vera and sericin, a component of silk which acts as cement between filaments of fibroin. Other ingredients are keratin and glycolic acid, a popular anti-ageing ingredient which fully penetrates the hair shaft, enhancing softness, improving manageability, preventing breakage, and protecting from heat. Vitamins C, E, B3, B5, B6, and extracts such as sugar cane, lemon, apple and green tea are included.

Cezanne smoothing service takes between three and four hours depending on the length and density of your hair.

Included in the service is a take home Cezanne shampoo, conditioner and styling product.

For further information or bookings please phone Alberts.

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Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 27

Tristan de Chalain

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GOOD NEWS FOR YOUNG WOMEN The Sustainable Period Project has arrived in New Zealand Lunette NZ is inviting all schools to encourage sustainable practices and reduce waste by including the Sustainable Period Project in their health education classes. Resource kits contain biodegradable disposable pads, reusable period underpants, reusable cloth pads and menstrual cups are available via sustainableperiodproject.org/resource-kit Fast fact: There are six million Australian and NZ people of menstruating age. Each will use about 11,000 -16,000 disposable sanitary products in their lifetime. In stark comparison, one Lunette menstrual cup will last up to 10 years.

s a parent, you might think about braces for your child’s crooked teeth when they are teenagers. Contrary to the popular belief that it’s all about genetics, there are a number of things that can be done to help avoid the need for braces.

As crooked teeth are a result of small jaws which haven’t grown into the correct position, growing the jaws is critical.

At birth, breastfeeding helps to mould the palate and to create the correct suck, swallow and breathing patterns as well as helping to correctly develop the facial bones. The longer mum can breastfeed the better. We understand that breastfeeding can be a struggle for some; that’s why it’s vital to get the correct information and support starting before baby is born.

Artificial teats such as bottles and dummies change the suck and swallow pattern resulting in improper tongue movements which stop the jaws and face developing well. As 50% of the growth of the face is completed by age 6 months, getting this right from the start is important.

It is important to rule out lip and tongue ties as these affect breastfeeding, impact the suck and swallow patterns and hinder the tongue’s ability to sit in the top palate. The tongue sitting correctly helps to mould the palate to be nice and wide rather than narrow and high.

On introducing solid foods, it is important to feed baby harder rather than mushy foods as this stimulates growth and development of the face and jaws. This is called, ‘baby led weaning’. You can learn more about this online. In non-western cultures extended breastfeeding is common and baby led weaning is the norm. Subsequently, the need for braces is seen less.

Mouth breathing rather than nose breathing changes the patterns of facial growth which leads to crooked teeth. Ensure your baby, and older children, breathe through the nose and that lips are together at rest.

Hope is not lost if you are worrying your child may need braces.

Functional orthodontics is the practice of growing and widening the jaw. This increases the palate space and airways, ensuring there is room for all the adult teeth without the need for extractions.

Alongside cranial chiropractic, myofunctional exercises and buetyko breathing are helpful correct dysfunction. Please contact us if you would like to know more about functional orthodontics.

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For bookings contact: Ph 09 235 8752 | M 021 027 65400 34 Queen St, Waiuku.

28 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

Open 6 days: 9am–7pm

Contact us now for your appointment KAT5209-V4

• Traditional Thai Massage • Aromatherapy Massage • Sports Massage

Soon moving to Tobin Street (opp Resene) and renaming as Sanctuary Dental

166 King St, Pukekohe | info@thedentistpukekohe.co.nz | Ph 09 238 4619

www.the-dentist-pukekohe.co.nz

KAT5285-v4

www.ruralliving.co.nz

ADVERTORIAL

Facial rejuvenation, aesthetics and the mid-face By dr. tristan de chalain, Msc. MBcnB. Fcssa. FRcsc. FRacs.

t

hree things happen to the face as we age. Firstly, the tissue descends with gravity; secondly, we lose fat in the deeper planes and elasticity in the skin and supporting structures; thirdly, we develop wrinkles and creases. The bad news is that these changes, which inevitably mark the passage of time, are, to some degree almost inevitable.

The good news is that something can be done to reduce and delay them. At what stage in your life these changes start to become a problem for you, is partly due to genetics and lifestyle choices, (which determine how rapidly you age) and partly due to attitude.

For most faces, both male and female, one of the most prized beauty assets is a well-contoured, full cheek. This sets off the eyes, smoothes the lid-cheek junction and helps to suspend tissues around the mouth.

Individuals with a flat mid-cheek region tend to show ageing changes earlier and dissatisfaction with this area of the face is a common complaint heard in my office.

For the younger patient, or those with very deficient mid-face bony support, facial implants are an excellent consideration. These are easily placed, www.ruralliving.co.nz

may consist of solid silicone or a betterintegrated material such as Porex®, or even the patient’s own, autologous tissue such as fat and dermis.

Either will give a convincing fullness and contour to the face and greatly improve the aesthetics of the area. It is a particularly good procedure for those considering having baggy, wrinkled lower eyelids treated.

In many such cases there is a deficiency of mid-cheek fullness and a lengthening of the lower eyelid, with an obvious lid/ cheek junction zone as well, all of which can be addressed by a simple mid-face lift.

For a face which has been injured, leading to loss of symmetry, or an ageing face, where there has been wasting of native fat pads, (soft tissue such as muscle and even bone), plus tissue slumping (known as “ptosis”) and sagging, these can be reversed by performing a mid-face lift, or by placement, of a cheek implant and sometimes, by both.

A mid-face lift is not a true face-lift, although it does literally, lift the face.

Where a classic face and neck-lift requires an incision along the contour of the ear and up into the hairline behind the ear, and addresses mainly the lateral cheek, the neck and the jawline, the midface lift is performed through the lower eyelid and the space behind the top lip. It addresses the central face, on either side

of the nose, out to the outer corner of the eye and the cheekbones.

It is a virtually undetectable procedure which can literally take years off a face, rejuvenate the eyes and lift the corners of the mouth, yet still make the patient look like nothing more than a better, more youthful version of themselves, rather than someone else, or what’s worse, someone who’s had too much surgery.

Alternatively, depending on the patient’s wishes, properly planned and executed, mid-face lifting with implants can make a bland face appear exotic and exciting.

In selected cases, a mid-face lift can easily be combined with a classic face and neck lift.

This is one group of procedures you need to find out more about, but as not many surgeons perform the surgery, do your research before committing.

Level 2, onehealth Building, 122 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland Phone 09 522 0652 Fax 09 522 0435 reception@plassurg.co.nz www.plassurg.co.nz Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 29

Good news for South Auckland – Cheryl Griffiths has joined our team.

Loves fabric, colour and texture! Phone today!

Skills for Writing

Ask about our FREE curtain making terms.

Curtains Blinds Shutters Mobile Showrooms Phone 379 5599

By Cheryl McKinstry, Suits & Gumboots Country Daycare

M

any parents ask us, “when are you going to teach my child

Showroom: 43 Sale Street, Auckland City

     Thank you      To our valued sponsors, our exhibitors, everyone who came along, and those who  volunteered to help make 2018 another great year.

 

PUKEKOHE SHOWGROUNDS  Station Rd, Pukekohe PUKEKOHE SHOWGROUNDS 9am—4pm each day Station Rd, Pukekohe Free parking 9am—4pm each day

    

     

    

     

KAT5213

www.aucklanddrape.co.nz

to write?”

Some children show an interest at 3 ½ years, others are nearing 5 years and still have no interest. There are many skills needed to write and there are lots of ways we can support our children before they start the writing journey.

When interest is shown, or the time comes to move on to the next adventure at school, we like our children to be armed with confidence and the skills to give it a go.

Children are developing skills from a young age; they all help. For example, young children feeding themselves using a spoon, exploring with puzzles, tipping and pouring, all benefit. How? These skills help children learn to use the muscles in their hands, use their fingers to grasp, move their wrists, develop distance precision and to track movements with their eyes.

Playing with playdough is another great experience; it continues to strengthen the muscles in the hands, and helps children explore concepts such as short and tall.

Other activities include scrunching up paper, throwing small objects into a bucket (such as tennis balls), hammering nails, pulling scarves from containers, doing/undoing buttons and zips, threading beads, helping to hang washing with pegs, peeling potatoes, using scissors and picking up small items using chopsticks, tongs or tweezers. These are all things that can be done together at home.

Along with developing muscles in the hands and eyes, understanding what print is, is another important factor as is reading to children. Reading encourages children to hear words they can use in their stories. It helps them to develop and understand that stories have a beginning, middle and end.

Reading also encourages children to see print and eventually to realise that the squiggly print equals words.

Without an understanding that print has meaning, writing won’t have meaning.

When your child can confidently and independently hold a pencil they may start drawing pictures. Encourage your child to tell you about their picture, write down the story they tell so that print becomes a natural part of their world.

Most importantly, remember ALL children learn at different paces. All children have different skills in which they are confident while others may need encouragement. Life is not a race, nor is it a comparison game. The more skills and experiences we give our children now, the more naturally others will follow.

Suits & Gumboots Country Daycare 12 Helenslee Rd, Pokeno.

46 Waerenga Rd, Te Kauwhata Phone 0800 464656 www.suitsandgumboots.co.nz

KAT5513-v2

30 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Fired up for the

community Everybody knows that children and fires don’t mix but seemingly that isn’t always the case. The driven owner of two local childcare centres, Tarina Moorfield, is basking in the glow of being named Firefighter of the Year. She spoke to ANGELA KEMP.

M

ost of us would find running two busy daycare centres 25 kilometres apart exhausting work and would expect to put our feet up when we eventually arrived home. Not Tarina Moorfield whose dedication to serving her local community has been officially recognised.

When she’s not overseeing ‘littlies’ at the Pokeno and Te Kauwhata, Suits and Gumboots Country Daycare, Tina frequently dons a firefighter’s suit and boots as a senior member with the Te Kauwhata Fire Brigade.

She says she is humbled at receiving the Firefighter of the Year award after being nominated and chosen by the senior members of the brigade. The award is presented to someone who has shown courage and dedication, not only to their community but to their fellow firefighters.

Tarina says there have been many times she’s had to show courage. “But I feel the more you put in the more you get out.

We’re not there for a reward, the reward is wanting to contribute. The award is just a bonus.”

One of her most challenging callouts was to a traffic accident which involved a child from one of her daycare centres.

“The child I knew wasn’t seriously injured, but the child in the other car died.

You just have to do what you are trained to do to make better the situation and to get the help that’s needed. It’s made me realise how quickly things can go from bad to worse and how sometimes by helping a little, it can mean so much to the people affected.”

Tarina has served in the brigade for five www.ruralliving.co.nz

Fire-fighting family, from left – Tarina, husband Jason, daughter Tayla and Jason’s father Warren.

Photo supplied

years and previously worked as a volunteer with the St John Ambulance Association.

She says the ability to be dedicated, adaptable, level-headed, calm, compassionate and think quickly on your feet are important traits of being a firefighter.

“You’re dealing with people who are watching their house burn down or have just lost someone.

“If you go in with tunnel vision it can catch you out. You have to be openminded about what you might encounter; be prepared for anything and take a few deep breaths.”

Before becoming a firefighter, Tarina says she enjoyed her role as a St John volunteer. “I am passionate about the volunteer emergency services within our community and l feel valued as a volunteer.”

She says she also enjoys the camaraderie and recognition Fire and Emergency NZ has for its members.

“I was really drawn by the brotherhood between members, the discipline and the opportunity to be able to help the community.

“They are such an amazing group of people from all walks of life who give up their time to serve each other and their community and I am very proud to be part of their family.”

But this ‘family’ connection runs a lot deeper for Tarina – a unique element of the Te Kauwhata Brigade is that three generations of Moorfield firefighters are still active and operational.

Tarina’s father-in-law, Warren Moorfield, has served in the brigade for 42 years and recently received a long service and good conduct medal.

His son, Jason (Tarina’s husband) has been in the brigade 17 years and is the current Deputy Chief Fire Officer.

And, now, the couple’s daughter, Tayla, has just graduated from the National Training Centre in Rotorua making her the fourth Moorfield member serving in the brigade.

Juggling a busy career with her firefighting duties has its challenges, Tarina says.

“I like to keep busy but finding a balance between work and home life is not always easy. It’s a work in progress.”

Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 31

Nashi Caramel desseRt INGREDIENTS

METHOD

◆ 1 med-large nashi (c 300g) ◆ 100g flour ◆ 100g sugar ◆ 1.5 tsp baking powder ◆ 1 egg ◆ 1 tsp vanilla essence ◆ 75g melted butter

heat sugar and water over moderate heat, stirring constantly until syrup is turning golden. Quickly and carefully (avoid splashes) pour into baking dish and tilt to cover bottom and sides with a thin film of caramel.

Peel core and thinly slice nashi. Place dry ingredients in a bowl. Beat in the egg, then fold in vanilla and melted butter.

Place nashi slices in rings in a single layer on top of the caramel. Cover with the cake mixture.

Put the dish in the bottom half of the oven. Cook for 1.25 hours at 160ºC. Allow to cool.

Place a plate of greaseproof paper over the dish then turn over.

Bake at 190ºC for 15-20 minutes.

For caramel ◆ 1/2 cup sugar ◆ 1 Tbsp water

For more recipes, or tips, see nashi.org.nz

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32 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

CR0099-v2

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Pot the bunny!

RaBBit loin with pRosciutto, oysteR MushRooMs, BRaised RaBBit leg, RaVioli, BRussels spRout noisette and Quince

r

un, rabbit, run rabbit, run, run, run to Napier’s Mission Estate where you will satisfy the palates of at least one lucky diner thanks to this loin-tingling recipe!

ingRedients Rabbit loin ◆ 2 slices of prosciutto ◆ 1 rabbit loin (approx. 50-60g) ◆ 10g crushed juniper ◆ 10g thyme Braised rabbit leg ◆ 4 rabbit legs ◆ 1kg diced vegetables – carrots, onion, leek, celery ◆ 500ml of red wine ◆ 1 bay leaf ◆ 1 sprig thyme ◆ A handful of black pepper corns ◆ 3L of veal or chicken stock ◆ 2 Tbps of quince paste Ravioli filling ◆ 300g seared pancetta ◆ 100g parmesan cheese ◆ 4 egg yolks ◆ Shredded or picked rabbit meat

Wine match: Mission Estate Riesling 2015 or VS Pinot Noir 2014 Pasta ◆ 100g Tipo Flour (Italian pasta flour) ◆ 1 whole egg ◆ 20ml water Burnt Butter Vinaigrette ◆ 200g butter ◆ 6 Tbsp sherry vinegar ◆ 6 Tbsp olive oil ◆ 1 tsp mustard ◆ 1 chopped shallot Assembly ◆ 4 oyster mushroom ◆ 100ml burnt butter vinaigrette ◆ Handful of blanched Brussel sprout leaves

Method Rabbit loin – Lightly season rabbit loin and roll generously in the juniper and thyme mix. Wrap tightly in prosciutto and then in cling film. Poach in boiling, seasoned water for 8-10mins. Once done set aside and allow to cool.

Braised rabbit leg – In a braising tray add vegetables, wine, bay leaf, thyme, peppercorns and stock. In a fry pan sear rabbit legs until evenly browned and add to braising tray. Double tin foil and cover

tray. Braise for 3 hours at 200°C. Once done remove rabbit legs; cool and shred meat from bone. Strain liquid, reduce and add quince paste to make quince jus.

Ravioli filling – To form ravioli filling, add all ingredients to food processor and pulse until combined. Roll 12g (approx. one heaped tablespoon) of filling into circular discs. Fill pasta to form ravioli.

Pasta – Combine ingredients into a dough, knead and pass through pasta machine starting with the thickest setting and gradually reducing down to the lowest setting to form thin sheets. Cut with cookie cutter to desired size, fill with rabbit filling and form into ravioli parcels.

Burnt Butter Vinaigrette – Brown butter in pot about 15 mins or until dark golden brown; set aside. Place vinegar, shallot, mustard, oil in a blender and blend until a smooth paste. Slowly drizzle in the burnt butter while blender is running until the vinaigrette thickens.

Assembly – Sauté mushrooms. Blanche ravioli in boiling water for 4 mins. Unwrap poached rabbit loin and slice into even portions. Garnish with the ravioli, blanched Brussel sprout leaves, burnt butter vignette and quince jus.

Buying or Selling?

M. 021 955 141 I E. c.cooper@barfoot.co.nz I Papakura 09 298 8029 www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5291

Cherry Cooper - Rural, Equestrian & Lifestyle Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 33

Of Nick’s knack...

W

hen it comes to indulging in the upper crust of cafe dining, the Ponsonby set may believe they know where to go but, with fresh accolades under his belt, it’s Nick King who holds the crown down our way!

After claiming the Auckland region’s People’s Choice award for the second year running late last year, Nick’s Cafe in Waiuku has been named ICG Classic Kiwi Cafe at Cafe of the Year’s national awards.

Owner, Nick King, attributes the business’ success to, “living in the best town in the world! I’m so proud of my team,” he adds.

“Without them this would not have been possible.”

Practically raised in a kitchen – Nick’s mum worked in catering – he has taken old, family recipes and spun gold, building a successful business off the back of tasty,

down-home cooking.

Since first opening its doors in 2011, Nick’s has perked four regional Cafe of the Year awards and was voted national ‘People’s Choice’ in 2016.

“I love Waiuku very much. I’m keen as anything to put it on the food map and try to attract more foodies here,” Nick told Rural Living at the time. “The competition means a lot as it validates all our hard work.”

While Nick’s secured national recognition, other Franklin cafes also claimed regional awards late last year – The Sugar Shed in Pukekohe was named Auckland’s Best Rural Cafe, The Butcher’s Shop Café in Patumahoe claimed Best Regional Town cafe, and Ardmore’s Friend of the Farmer Cafe won the region’s Best Suburban award.

For details of other winners, see nzcafeoftheyear.co.nz.

right on, guys!

When Chris met Sally, they were destined to be more than just friends. Years on, united by a passion for living on the land, the local couple was recently anointed Share Farmers of the Year at the Auckland/ Hauraki Dairy Industry Awards. “Chris always wanted to pursue a career in dairying,” says Sally.

“Living on the farm means we see each other throughout the day and allows more time for him to spend with our young son, Hunter.”

While working as a builder in Australia, Kiwi Chris met Sally – an Aussie teacher raised on a sheep and beef station. A move to New Zealand to pursue their dream soon followed. Today, the couple milks 200 cows on a 80ha Papakura property. To read more of their story – and those of other award-winners, see dairyindustryawards.co.nz.

Hot Spots RED EARTH EATERY & WINE BAR

CANOPIUS Canopius has a new menu bringing as always the finest, freshest and free-range product to the area’s surrounding Papakura. Paired with our 100% fair-trade, organic coffee for the best brunch in the South. Be it Eggs Benedict for brunch, or our Canopius Burger for lunch, with beef ground fresh in house, Canopius’ focus on high quality is sure to please. Whether you choose your favourite from our menu, or grabbing something from the extensive cabinet selection, Canopius will cater to what drives your hunger.

145 Great South Road, Papakura Open Tues-Fri 7am-4pm Sat-Mon 8am-3pm Phone 09 299 1180 www.canopius.co.nz www.facebook.com/canopiuscoffeehouse

KAT5630

34 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

KAT5233-v3

Red Earth, open 7 days a week, 10am till late for brunch, lunch and dinner! Red Earth eatery & wine bar offers a premium dining experience in Papakura, with fare ranging from smaller Tapas-style sharing plates and platters to full meals. Glutenfree and vegetarian options available. Red Earth’s extensive wine list offers a wide selection of wines from around the country and the world. For something extra special, there is a cellar list for more exclusive bottles too! Don’t miss live music every Saturday night. Pop in and see our friendly team for a fantastic time.

255 Great South Rd, Papakura Phone 09 296 9027 www.facebook.com/redearth.winebar

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Benefits of buying at auction With many people selling properties by auction, Barfoot & Thompson explains why this is effective for buyers too.

A

uctions can seem intimidating for first-timers, but they are a great way to buy, providing many benefits over other methods of

sale: ◆◆Quick and simple. An auction has a set date of sale, and you know that you can buy the property unconditionally on the day to avoid any complicated negotiations that can drag on. ◆◆Transparency. There are no hidden surprises – you know the terms and the settlement date in advance, you’re bidding unconditionally, you know who your competition is and exactly what other buyers are willing to offer. ◆◆Assurance of market price. You can see what others believe the property is worth,

and that everyone is on an even playing field with all bids unconditional. You know when the house meets reserve, and you also know the price at which the owners are willing to sell. ◆◆No vendor bids. At Barfoot & Thompson, we guarantee that our auctioneers never make bids on behalf of vendors, accept bids they believe to be made on behalf of vendors, or knowingly accept any bid that is not genuine.

With the right guidance from your real estate salesperson, buyers can have all the support and information needed to bid successfully.

Contact us with your auction questions by visiting www.barfoot.co.nz/find-us – we can steer you through the requirements.

Lifestyle sales down – prices up Despite lower numbers of lifestyle block sales the market is still showing good strength.

Data released in February 2018 by the Real Estate Institute of NZ (REINZ) shows there were 100 fewer lifestyle property sales (-5.5%) for the three months ended January 2018 than for the three months ended January 2017.

The rural and lifestyle markets are experiencing similar trading conditions to those in the residential market. The national median number of days for lifestyle properties to sell was the same in the three months to January 2018 as in the three months to January 2017, sitting at 55 days and Auckland at 51 days.

Buyer interest is strong throughout the region but there is caution as to whether prices have settled. Those sales that are being made are at prices consistent with those paid in the last quarter of 2017.

Solid demand continues in Auckland for re-zoned rural land and it is of note that there have been strong results across the Auckland region for lifestyle properties offered at auction, clear evidence of continued competitive buyer demand.

Whilst the number of sales is down nationally, compared to recent years, the demand in the Franklin district is still strong with good enquiry and good sales being achieved, particularly in the $800,000 to $1,800,000 range. A number of strong sales have also been achieved for properties over $2,000,000 of late. www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5232-v3

By Darren Szaszy, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe

Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 35

ADVERTORIAL

Bringing the outdoors in

O

ne of the most modern and comprehensive showrooms in Pukekohe – that’s a major point of competitive advantage for Franklin Aluminium.

Supplying windows and doors under the First brand, Franklin Aluminium has invested in a superb, hands-on display of product options which is paying dividends for owner manager, Robert Brown, and the team at Franklin Aluminium.

“Once people come in, the display sells itself,” says Robert. “We think it’s important that people get a good idea of how our products look in the flesh, so to speak. It makes it much easier to get a handle on what windows will work best in their own homes.”

That’s not to say the sales team can sit back and take it easy. They know that customer service is a key factor that carries through to completion of window installation, and the final product operating as it should for the homeowner.

Robert can draw on more 30 years’ experience in the window industry to ensure the job goes smoothly. He says that the first step is to choose the right products for the build and budget.

“For example the Metro Series and APL Architectural Series are ideal for bold, large format applications while First Residential is perfectly designed for mainstream use.”

36 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

certainly notice the difference when the temperature drops!”

As ThermalHEART helps regulate temperature, it can even help homes stay cooler during the summer too.

At Franklin Aluminium’s showroom, Robert and team have a wide range of First Residential windows and doors in Palladium Silver powder coat on display.

Sliding doors, French doors, sliding windows and bi-folding windows are also to hand for customers to inspect, as well as the Metro Series – for larger format, high performance applications – which includes a multi-slider, bi-fold door and window.

In addition, the showroom features a stunning Glass Plasma entrance door in dual colour – blue on the inside and white on the outside.

“We invite you to pay us a visit the Franklin Aluminium showroom today to experience it for yourself,” adds Robert.

“We’re sure we’ll have the right solutions for you.”

The impending winter weather is a timely reminder of how important the right windows are in ensuring we live in healthier homes, Robert explains.

“High thermal efficiency choices utilising the ThermalHEART system definitely need to be considered, whether you’re building or renovating. Available in a range of designs and styles, ThermalHEART features At Franklin Aluminium we pride ourselves on our top-notch a nylon thermal insulator which separates service and comprehensive product offering. We also the inside and outside metal faces. It may have one of At theFranklin most Aluminium modern and extensive showrooms in not be too obviously noticeable when Phone 09Aluminium 238 8828 we pride ourselves on our At Franklin we pride ourselves ontop-notch our Pukekohe. looking at these products but people will franklinfirst.co.nz service and service comprehensive product offering.

We also top-notch and comprehensive product offering. also have oneand of extensive the most showrooms modern have one of We most modern Our customers have thethechoice of a range of mainstream in www.ruralliving.co.nz and extensive showrooms in Pukekohe.

Pukekohe. residential windows and doors,have as well as our other ranges customers the choice of a of range of OurOur customers have the choice of a range mainstream like our Metro Series and the APL Architectural Series.

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Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 37 KAT5648

The Countryside Begins with Townsend...

Light up your life

It’s often Christmas time when thoughts turn to lighting up your home exterior – and then it’s all about creating a bold, festive focus. But, if, say a visit to the Auckland Lantern Festival, has you inspired to light up your landscape in a more permanent way that’s really going to show your property off while maybe making it safer, here are a few things to think about: n Safety: Walk the main thoroughfares of your property in the dark, with just a torch. It will quickly help you identify the areas that need lighting. Where are you likely to trip? Is the pathway clear? Does it change direction? Are there steps? Are there places you’re likely to walk into things like overhanging trees, or jutting out bay windows? Are there areas you need to access a lot in the dark, such as wheelie bins or the wood pile? Use all these things to plan your safety lighting. You may need one or two bright lights, or a trail of smaller lights that brighten up walkways. n Security: Good lighting can be a huge help in making your property more secure.

If you’re often coming home in the dark, good sensor lights where you have to get in and out of the car and walk to the door are a great idea. And think about lighting up dark corners of the garden where intruders may be able to hide. Sensor lights are good option for security lighting as they turn on in response to movement and mean you can avoid having your section constantly lit up like the flight-deck of the USS Enterprise. n Style: So that’s the strictly sensible stuff done, but the right lighting in the right spots

can really add some welcoming warmth and style to your property. Think about the areas you use most in your section and how you use them. An ideal lighting plan should allow you flexibility in how you light up for different uses. Brighter spots where you cook on the BBQ or around a pool, for example, and more subtle, dimmer lights with prettier fittings in areas you may be sitting and socialising. Do you have a showpiece tree that might look great dotted with fairy lights? Can you wrap strings of lights underneath a pergola? Or perhaps a freestanding showpiece light you can sit around. If you have great indoor/outdoor flow also think about how your outdoor lights may work with nearby indoor lights. n Sense: It’s also vital to consider how your lights will be powered and make sure you have them fitted by a qualified electrician where necessary. But also keep an eye out for solar power lights which are a simple, safe option. Be sure to select light fittings that are designed for outdoors and, when it comes to selling your property, make sure everything is well-maintained before open homes. A well-lit, inviting, outdoor entertainment area can be a big selling point for a home, so if you know it looks great at night, make sure you talk to Jo-Ann about photographing it that way.

Jo-Ann Day-Townsend 021 1696 056 jo-ann.day-townsend@harcourts.co.nz www.joanndaytownsend.co.nz BCRE Ltd Licensed Agent REA 2008

Mauku, 557 Waiuku Road

Onewhero, 169 Kauri Road

Glenbrook, 22 Ronald Avenue

Puni, 99a Massey Road

Awhitu, 278 Orua Bay Road

Mauku, 481 Waiuku Road

KAT5307-v5

for sale with jo-ann

the Importance FIrst home oF Good desIGn buyers –Is a neW buIld For you?

By Kylie Bosanac, nick Bosanac Builders limited

l

ately, I’ve been pouring over plans with clients who feel as if the layout of a particular room doesn’t work or, rather, it just makes do.

I’ve talked about a kitchen that feels as if it was designed around the rest of the house rather than the other way around and looked at the shape of a living room which doesn’t really suit family living.

Have a look around your own home. What area really works and flows well? Are there areas which ‘just make do?’ It might be the kitchen, your bedroom, or storage space; it could be that the whole house no longer suits they way you want to use it.

Now, I’m no architect, nor am I an interior designer, but I am passionate about GOOD DESIGN. Good design considers both form and function with function being the most important. However, there must be balance, too, and any compromise must be workable.

If planning a new home layout or adjusting existing space consider these points: ◆ What do you always use? – make these things easy to get and tidy ◆ Where do you need to spend most of your time? – put effort and funding into making this space enjoyable! If it’s the kitchen, use colours which inspire and set up a working quadrant which is easy to move through: prep, cook, clean. ◆ Where do you want to spend most of your time? – pay attention to your sanctuary – whether it is a quiet or busy zone, create the right shape and feel through colour, light and soft furnishings ◆ What do you LOVE? – do you have a special vase, painting, or throw? Make space for it and sacrifice less loved pieces if need be.

If you’re in the planning stages of your home, you have a bit of a blank slate. This is the best time to get things right; visualise what you want in each room and how you want it to feel. Don’t be afraid to whip out the tape measure or re-create spaces with tape on the floor to gain a feel for how things will go together.

Nick and I want to ensure everyone has a good home building experience, and that starts with good design. So, to help out, we are giving away three of our Dreambook folders – full of useful information, handy hints, worksheets and organiser tabs to get you sorted! Just email us your name, postal address and tell us your build project goals! kylie@bosanacbuilder.co.nz or phone for a friendly chat about how we can help – 09 236 8413.

Let us build your Forever Home www.bosanacbuilders.co.nz 09 236 8413

www.ruralliving.co.nz

021 989 636

nick@bosanacbuilders.co.nz

We’ve got you covered

Phone Philippa Farmer – 021 432 748 Email philippaf@canopygroup.co.nz KAT5204-v2 KAT5302

Licensed, Quality Builders Off Plan & Custom Built Homes Modern and historical home experience Attention to detail We manage it all, design to finish!

Renovations & Addtions

t

here are a number of new housing developments popping up around Franklin, offering home buyers a myriad of choices. For some buyers, especially those who have never owned a property, the options can be a bit overwhelming.

There are some very compelling rationales to buying a new build – the benefits extend further than being able to choose your own carpet and curtains.

The two big advantages for first home buyers are both related to their deposit: ◆ New builds require less deposit. Home and land packages, or newly built homes, less than six months old, are exempt from the Reserve Bank loan-to-value restrictions, meaning you don’t need 20% deposit. Of course, subsequent home buyers and investors can take advantage of this benefit also, but generally speaking it is first home buyers who struggle most with saving enough deposit. ◆ More assistance from Kiwisaver. If you are eligible for the Homestart Grant (not to be confused with the First Home Withdrawal) then you could receive up to $10,000 per person (compared to only $5,000 per person for an existing/older home). New builds are also subject to a higher purchase cap (for Auckland the cap is $650,000, compared to $600,000 for an existing/older home). This benefit is available to first home buyers only (or those who meet the second chance criteria).

What about the downsides? Lenders are likely to charge a slightly higher interest rate if buyers have less than 20% deposit.

The good news is that this will only apply until the loan-tovalue ratio is under 80%.

Buying a house and land package will mean you will need to wait for your new home to be built, and depending on your contract with the builder you may be required to make payments along the way.

If you would like to discuss finance for your own new home, contact Philippa on 021 432 748 for an obligation free chat.

Your insurance, mortgage and Kiwisaver advice specialist

We Build Beautiful Homes.

Bring us your plans, or let us design you something unique.

We take pride in assuring that all work is of the highest quality.

By philippa Farmer, canopy

www.canopygroup.co.nz www.facebook.com/karakafinance Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 39

Got a landscape Project on?

Central Landscape Supplies Drury can help - we have a wide range of landscape supplies from pebbles, soils and barks to pavers, sleepers and grass seed.

Now’s the time to get that job done!

Talk to our friendly Central Landscape Supplies team at Drury about the best products for your landscape project.

Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 7am - 5pm, Saturday: 8am - 4pm, Sunday: 9am - 1pm 40 — Rural Living — March/April 2018 www.centrallandscapes.co.nz

www.ruralliving.co.nz Auckland • 09 294 8410 • 141 Great South Rd, Drury, KAT5290-v5

pot o’ marigold

A

lthough all that glitters isn’t necessarily gold, these little beauties are certainly worth more than their weight in the garden. Easy to grow, marigolds are common favourites, filling gardens with brilliant orange or yellow blooms, in some cases, year-round.

The Calendula nova (Calendula officinalis) or pot marigold is thought to derive its name from calend (or clock) due to its ability to thrive throughout the year.

From the Asteraceae family, these marigolds have sticky leaves and feature daisy-like flowers with up to three rows of petals grouped around a brown centre.

Growing to approximately 50-60cm in height, pot marigold cultivars range in colour from the deep orange-red of Indian Prince, to the pale yellow of the Lemon variety.

Thought to have originated in southern Europe, the pot marigold is now found worldwide, growing in warm, temperate regions, flowering throughout summer and, in warmer climates, in early spring and late autumn. ◆◆When, where and how to plant: In most parts of New Zealand, pot marigolds can be planted in autumn for winter colour. Seeds can be sown in containers or directly into the garden. Plant seeds roughly 30cm apart in rich, well-drained soil for optimum results.

This golden child loves the sun! Choose an area in your garden that receives full sun or partial shade. Although they are perennials, pot marigolds do not fare well in extreme temperatures.

Many people plant marigolds near and around their vegetables as they repel many pests. However, other insects are attracted to them; some good, such as bees which will cross pollinate, and some not so good. Consider carefully where you place these colourful and long-lasting flowers when it comes to the veggie plot. ◆◆Care: Aside from a little water, marigolds require only limited care. It is recommended, however, that the dying flower heads be regularly removed to ensure an even production of blossoms. ◆◆Uses: What’s good for the garden is good for the gardener! This is especially true when it comes to pot marigolds. While they are excellent companion plants, they also offer a range of medicinal benefits.

Marigolds have been used in the treatment of ailments ranging from skin infections and warts, to periodontal disease and even stomach ulcers.

Believed to have first been used by the ancient Greeks, marigolds were employed on the front lines during the American Civil War, where poultices were applied to open wounds, sores and burns.

Some studies suggest the reason for their wide ranging healing properties could be that the plant’s extracts have anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties. Their medicinal value is usually gained through ingestion, or by being applied directly to the affected area.

And they’re tasty too! With a flavour similar to saffron, marigolds are often used as a garnish, bringing a new flavour to such savoury dishes as risotto and pastas or as bursts of colour for salads.

While some may grow them for aesthetic or medicinal values and others to produce a tasty treat or a hard-working garden ally whatever their reasons, gardeners worldwide have gone to pot and have become sold… on marigold!

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Central’s Tips April 2018 Sow broad beans and cut back globe artichokes. It’s also an ideal month to dig compost into your vege gardens and sow lawns. Plus don’t forget to add colour into your winter garden and start planting spring bulbs!

In the Veggie Patch • Seasoned vegetable gardeners like to have their broad beans sown by ANZAC Day.

• Save seeds of heirloom tomatoes by rubbing tomato flesh through a sieve. Allow the seeds collected to dry, then package in a paper bag or envelope and store in a cool dry area.

• Cut back globe artichokes and divide plants if necessary.

• Dig compost through finished vegetable beds to condition soil.

Lawns • Autumn is Nature’s time for sowing lawns.

Our range of seed blends from Prolawn, will give you the best lawn strike for your soil.

• The Prolawn range of lawn fertilisers will help you start a new lawn or fertilise existing grass.

The rest of the Garden • Garden pretties: Sow cornflower, dianthus, nigella seeds and sweet peas.

• Plant a hedge of sasanqua camellias – these early-flowering varieties avoid the petal blight of late season ones.

• Planting time for all – ideal soil temperatures to dig in and get plants into the ground.

• Spring flowering bulbs: tulips, narcissi and hyacinths in pots and garden beds. Place pots in semi-shaded areas until the bulbs shoot.

KAT5290A-v5

The gardener’s

Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 41

Roll out the medals...

With shooting conspicuously missing from the 2022 Commonwealth Games programme, this year’s edition on the Gold Coast could be a last chance saloon for some competitors hunting gold; JON RAWLINSON recently caught up with one straight talking (and straight shooting) son of a gun in Maramarua.

t

he quarry Myles Browne-cole will be looking to obliterate in april may differ (quite literally) ‘in nature’ to that which he first lined up as a youngster. however, should Myles secure his first commonwealth games medal on the gold coast, his eyes will likely light up as bright as they did one christmas morning many years ago “i can’t remember exactly how old i was, maybe 10, when my brother [lewis] and i got our first air rifles for christmas. we spent the rest of the holidays shooting sparrows and mynahs in the chicken run,” the Maramarua local explains. “i was about 12 when i shot my first duck at a dam in Bombay. lewis, who’s a couple of years older than me, missed and i hit it with a single barrel [shotgun]. dad was amazed.” could this shot have been an early sign of the talent which would lead Myles to compete against the world’s best trap shooters or just a stroke of luck – for him, not the duck. “i always call it skill when i hit!” he says, followed by a wry smile. at this year’s commonwealth games (april 4-15), Myles will take his third crack at glory after competing at the delhi (2010) and glasgow (2014) games. experience shooting at the same range on the gold coast could come in handy. the Kiwi shooting team also includes fellow trap shooter, natalie Rooney (olympic silver, Rio) and commonwealth rifle champs, John snowden (delhi) and sally Johnston (glasgow). “i did reasonably well in delhi, i was one off making the final. i’ve shot quite well in Brisbane in the past, so i think i could do well this time; you’ve got to be good enough to be there and, if you are, you always have a chance,” says Myles.

42 —Photo Rural Living Wayne Martin — March/April 2018

www.ruralliving.co.nz

“I don’t like to count my chickens, but we have a strong team and most of us are coming into form so we have a good prospect of winning medals.”

As any keen hunter (or sportsperson) will tell you, if you have the chance, you take the shot, and that’s exactly how Myles has approached his game. His ambitions to shoot competitively first gathered steam during his school years while living on a lifestyle block near Glenbrook Vintage Railway.

“Pukekohe High had a [clay pigeon shooting] team so my and I brother shot with them to begin with. At the end of 2002, we rallied together finding a few others who were interested and started a team at our school [Waiuku College]. The principal wasn’t too keen but we talked him into it.”

Armed with a double barrel dose of Browne-Coles, the squad quickly gained a reputation as hotshots on the competitive college scene, winning national honours in 2004.

“That was the first time Waiuku had won a national title in anything so we received quite a lot of kudos,” he pauses then adds in a deadpan manner: “Even from the principal.”

Since then, both brothers have competed at a range of events, qualifying for world champs’ teams in 2004 and 2006. A year later, Myles’ won silver (doubles) and gold (singles) at the Youth Olympics.

While hunting may help Myles bring home the ‘bacon’, amateur sport isn’t the most lucrative pastime to say the least. He says working for his family’s businesses – Pelleted Products (produces organic fertiliser) and Premium Forest Products – provides the flexibility he needs to compete.

GOT GAME! when rustling up ‘fast food’, the Brownecoles could be said to show that the family who slays together stays together.

“My wife, Kirsten comes hunting with me now and then and has done a bit of trap shooting too, not competitively, just whenever i drag her along,” says competitive trap shooter and keen hunter, Myles Browne-cole. “Friends of ours set us up and we actually first met shooting pigeons in a paddock so she knew what she was getting herself into!” after their rather unusual first date, Kirsten (a teacher at pukekohe high school) and Myles tied the knot in January last year. he says his wife doesn’t tend to www.ruralliving.co.nz

Beyond the Gold Coast games, Myles has Olympic goals in his crosshairs, however he concedes he’ll need 20/20 vision to make the podium in Tokyo.

“I’ve come close but I haven’t quite managed to qualify for the Olympics. It is a big step up, with a lot of European and Middle Eastern countries being quite strong. I’m hopeful I’ll get to Tokyo in 2020 though.”

Shooting has been at the Olympics since 1896 and Commonwealth Games (solidly) for more than 40 years. However, in a move which has seen fans and competitors ‘up in arms’, 2022 host city, Birmingham, has not included the sport (which is optional at the Comms) on its programme.

Myles says he was surprised to hear of

the decision late last year.

“England is particularly strong in shooting so it is very weird,” he says.

“Apparently, they’ve already sold out of tickets for shooting at the Gold Coast games so I doubt the decision has to do with the sport’s [lack of] popularity.”

Reports by the BBC that the host city’s decision was attributed to a lack of appropriate facilities near Birmingham must be off the mark, he believes.

“I’ve heard something about that but when Manchester held the games in 2002, they used Bisley, a range just outside of London... so, if they’re using that as an excuse, it doesn’t ring true to me.”

The Bisley National Shooting Centre is actually closer to Birmingham than it is to Manchester.

In response to Rural Living’s enquiries, Martin Reynolds from the Commonwealth Games Federation provided general reasons, including the suitability of facilities, as to why hosts may choose not to include certain sports.

“A combination of factors was considered,” he says. “[Birmingham games] organisers select[ed] alternative optional sports (such as 3x3 Basketball) which they feel works better for them.”

Unfortunately, Mr Reynolds stopped well short of confirming specifically why shooting has been dropped.

Whatever the 2022 host city’s reasons, Myles says the move has provided him with extra incentive to medal at this year’s games.

“I am disappointed because it’s a great event to work towards. The Olympics is the pinnacle for me but the Commonwealth Games offers a solid stepping stone to younger competitors looking to progress in the sport.”

worry too much when he heads to the hills, lakes or anywhere else to hunt. “there’s a lot of hype around gun safety but, in theory, if everyone goes by the basic rules, there shouldn’t be any accidents. that’s the only concern Kirsten has – who else is wandering around in the bush and are they sticking to the rules.” hunting plays an essential role in keeping some animal and bird populations under control (in some cases, native as well as introduced species), Myles adds. in fact, it can prove essential in ensuring waterfowl don’t foul the water. “the habitat paradise shelducks prefer, for example, is open grassland and, since so much native forest has been cleared in new Zealand, they’ve capitalised on all the extra pasture and breed quite rapidly.”

“there would be massive die-offs if some species weren’t kept in check. in particular, botulism is a real problem; if a duck catches it and dies, the maggots that eat it are infected, so when other birds eat them the disease spreads rapidly.” while Myles prefers to target game birds, deer are in his sights often enough. asked how much game he’s bagged over the years, he laughs and simply says: “lots!” before elaborating with: “i try to shoot everything but i still have a couple of things to tick off the list” he says. “i enjoy getting out too, for me hunting isn’t just about killing things. “you see a lot of animals and parts of the country most people don’t; bringing home something to eat is a bonus.”

Possum pays – Myles’ first ‘big’ trophy.

no Bang-Bang in BiRMinghaM?

Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 43

MOVING AHEAD AT SSANGYONG – NEW SERVICE CENTRE SET TO OPEN Home to the award-winning SsangYong range of vehicles and with a second yard showcasing one of New Zealand’s fastest growing brands, LDV vans and utes, Takanini SsangYong has risen to the challenge of ever increasing demand.

General manager, Peter Murray says with several European awards for design, safety and not least, 4x4 Of The Year, SsangYong is moving high on the shopping list of motorists seeking reliability, style and a cost-effective price tag. “In line with our steady growth curve we now have more than 30 full time staff and we are set to open our new service department at the end of March,” Mr Murray says.

“Being situated in South Auckland means we have an incredibly talented workforce pool to draw from but our biggest challenge has been keeping up with the growth. In light of that challenge we have learned a lot and are continually working to become more efficient.

“In particular, the new workshop, which I’m especially proud of, will cut down on customer waiting time.”

Established in 2012, originally with just four staff, Mr Murray says Takanini SsangYong today and the newer LDV super site are a credit to the hard work of his team over the past six years.

“It’s interesting to also note that SsangYong is South Korea’s longest running vehicle manufacturer having produced cars for more than 60 years,” he says.

“Combine that with its long-running, working partnership with Mercedes and being a third generation family company here in New Zealand, it really is an impressive combination that has worked well for Kiwi drivers.

“So, whether it’s the impressive SsangYong range of SUV’s and utes or the hard-working stable of LDV commercial vans and economical diesel utes, motorists would be hard pressed to beat the finish and value available from Takanini SsangYong and the LDV super site where dedicated staff will ensure they receive the service they deserve!

“Drop by for a look and a chat – the coffee is always good!”

Takanini Ssangyong | Ph 09 295 1660 170 Great South Road www.takaninissangyong.co.nz 44 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

www.ruralliving.co.nz SC3851-V2

TI M E TO TA KE AC TY ON !!

UN BE AT AB LE PR IC IN G! !

Iconic sports car concept debuts at Geneva

G

azoom! Local motor racing fans are sure to appreciate a move by Toyota to revive the heritage of one of its most famous sports cars.

The Gazoo Racing Supra Concept, which made is world debut at the Geneva Motor Show, is sure to bring back Supra memories, the name evoking the power, performance and handling that defined a succession of world-class coupes from 1978 to 2002.

Toyota New Zealand’s general manager (product and new vehicle sales) Neeraj Lala, says as a youngster, he remembers it was one of the most loved sports or street cars on the road.

“I can’t wait to reintroduce this [car] to the roads of New Zealand. The production car is closely aligned to the original concept, so the design and styling is going to be exceptional and a real head turner. We’ve already had customers offer to pay deposits to secure the first cars – such is the hype already surrounding Supra.”

As a thoroughbred sports car, the Toyota Supra built a reputation both as a formidable performer on the road and on the racetrack, dominating Japan’s top-level GT racing series.

The GR Supra Racing Concept provides a huge visual clue to the fact that it heralds Supra’s return: the large ‘90’ race number on its doors is the codename for the fifth-generation Supra, following the A40, A60, A70 and A80 series produced between 1978 and 2002.

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 45

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Rural Living is available FREE from selected advertisers and the following locations:

46 — Rural Living — March/April 2018

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Pukekohe RD1 Pukekohe, 239 Manukau Rd. Cafe Kaos, 44 Edinburgh St. Barfoot and Thompson, 68 King St. Pukekohe Library, 12 Massey Ave. Franklin Vets, 86 Harris St. Papakura Franklin Vets, 365 Great South Rd. Pokeno Pokeno Bacon, Great South Rd. Waiuku Franklin Vets, 2 Court St.

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We are looking for somewhere to put a few bee hives.

Mitre 10, 25 Bowen St. Bombay Autobahn, State Highway 1.

Tuakau Tuakau Meats, 23 George St. Tuakau Pharmacy, 51 George St. H.R Fiskens, 295 Tuakau Rd. 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. Patumahoe The Butchers Shop Cafe, 4 Patumahoe Rd. Clevedon Clevedon Dairy, 14 Main Rd, Clevedon Village

Rural Living is delivered the last 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

Clevedon Rural Supplies, 13 Papakura-Clevedon Rd, Clevedon Village Te Kauwhata Te Kauwhata Pharmacy, 14 Main Rd. Peplers, 5 Main Rd

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• 4-20 Ton Diggers • Tip Trucks & Trailers • Farm Drainage and Races • Horse Arenas • Driveway Remetaling • Roading • Dams • Building Sites • Subdivisions • Free Quotes

MORE THAN 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE Phone Warren 0274 434 778 or 09 238 5567

KAT5217

PH 09 237 0050

warren.arnet@xtra.co.nz

40 CROSBIE ROAD, PUKEKOHE

KAT5208

WALKERS

WIN

PEST CONTROL

with

• Insects and rodents • Domestic and commercial • Consultancy work

1 2 6

YOU NAME IT – WE’LL KILL IT!

3

Controlling your pests since 1988

4

5

Mobile 0274 789 857 Main Highway, Paerata

KAT5229

www.ruralliving.co.nz

BC0190

l 5.5 tonne digger l Tip trucks

ANd

& trailers

GREASE TRAP CLEANING SST SERVICES

21E Ryan Pl, Manukau

l Drainage

l D65 Bulldozer l Roading

& scoop

l Low loader l Grader

l Excavations l Dams

l Stopbanks

l Demolition

For the best advice and friendly service

l Metal/sand/

IN TWO GREAT LOCATIONS

l Building sites l Horse arenas

slag supplied l General cartage

Craig Nicholson KAT5226

Ph/Fax: 09 238 4047 or 021 987402 600 Buckland Rd, RD2, Pukekohe

PROFARM RURAL & LIFESTYLE

18 Elliot St, Papakura.

Ph 09 298 7767.

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

Ph 09 236 8228.

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

www.ruralliving.co.nz

CALL IN AND SEE US

KAT5303

Ph Brenton (09) 236 3639 or 0274 921 916

14 Constable Rd, Waiuku Ph 09 235 8268 KAT5322

Certified Plumbers and Drainlayers

KAT5287

Alan Wilson Plumbing 235 9066

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

• Service of all farm, industrial, agricultural irrigation and domestic pumps • Bore pump design, installation and supplies • Drainage supplies • Water tanks – Agent for RX and Aqua • Deep well pump sales and service • Water filter systems – Design and install • Bulk sand and cement • Pool pump sales and service – chemical supply • Full range of galvanised, alkathene & pvc pipes and fittings

• GROUND SPREADING • LIME • FERTILISER • UREA • LS100 (50/50 Fowl Manure & Lime Mix)

0800 782 521

Free quotes – Competitive rates

FOR ALL YOUR WATER NEEDS

COUNTIES BULK SPREADERS

0800 SUCKA1

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

KAT5297

e: sstseptictanks@gmail.com John: 0274 923 669 Robbie: 0274 967 430

Earthmoving & General Cartage

KAT5289

p: 09 294 7611

CONTRACTOR

Call us for all your farming supply needs

l Tree Removal

Experienced Operator 28 years+

5 mins from Rainbows End

Or:

Grant Escott FENCING

l 20 tonne diggers

KAT5317

SEPTIC TANK

24-Hour Callout Service • Pump & Well Services • Plumbing – Drainage – Concrete Supplies Rural Living — March/April 2018 — 47

www.ruralliving.co.nz KAT5286-v5

48 — Rural Living — March/April 2018