Times - 15 March 2023

LUXON CALLS OUT LABOUR AFTER RESTAURANT RAIDED

By CHRIS HARROWELL

Arestaurant is the latest local business to be targeted by thieves and the National Party says the incident is an example of the Labour Government’s failure to enforce law and order.

The break-in happened at The Rib House restaurant in Ormiston Road, Flat Bush, at about 5.38am on March 4. Those responsible smashed a window at the front of the restaurant to gain entry. One of them appeared to be young, according to The Rib House’s owners Althea and Kurt Jacks.

The couple were visited by Botany MP and National Party leader Christopher Luxon and National police spokesperson Mark Mitchell on March 12.

Althea Jacks told Luxon what was caught on the business’s security cameras during the break-in.

She said two people, including the youth, tried to smash the window, before a woman got out of their vehicle and began kicking it.

“Then they were in. They jumped over the counter.

“There was a float [cash] in the till and they took all the alcohol.

“They took the top shelf, bottom shelf, all the wine, stuff out of the chiller, beers and things out of the chillers, and they took all the meat out of the fridge.

“They were just loading it into the car. The driver was in the car and he was filming them, watching what they were doing. They were in and then gone.”

Althea Jacks told the Times she estimates the total loss to the business including damage and stolen

goods is about $10,000. With seven months until this year’s general election, Luxon used the break-in at The Rib House to highlight the

impact of crime across the country. He said the restaurant’s owners work hard, have gone through the Covid-19 pandemic and its

impact on business, pay their taxes and have raised three “outstanding” children.

“They do a lot of good stuff in the

community as well,” Luxon said.

“In this block [of businesses] other restaurants have been broken into. There were two big breakins in the space of three months.

“What we’re seeing is a Government that’s soft on crime.

“We’ve seen a 40 per cent increase in retail crime and we have 292 retail crime incidents each and every day in New Zealand. That’s up from 140 [each day] back in 2018.

“We don’t have to accept this as the status quo. We want the Government to consider and implement our plan, which is about backing our police, tackling gangs and dealing with serious youth offenders.”

The police data showing an almost 40 per cent rise in retail crime last year was obtained by Mitchell, who says the figure shows crime is “surging” under Labour.

The Counties Manukau Police district, which includes east Auckland, saw a 63 per cent increase in retail crime last year.

“Labour is utterly asleep at the wheel on crime,” Mitchell says.

“The tsunami of ram-raids, retail crime, youth offending and rampant growth in gang membership are the direct result of Labour’s soft approach to law and order.”

National wants to introduce a new Young Serious Offender category for young repeat criminals, create Young Offender Military Academies and give police more powers to tackle gangs.

A police spokesperson says a youth has been charged in relation to the break-in at The Rib House on March 4.

Althea and Kurt Jacks own The Rib House restaurant in Flat Bush, which was broken into on March 4. Times photo Chris Harrowell

Helping families with National’s FamilyBoost MP

Last week, I held my State of the Nation speech in Auckland where I outlined the state and conditions of New Zealand and highlighted what issues National is focused on delivering.

What an extraordinary beginning New Zealand has had to 2023, especially the North Island. I’ve visited places that have been devastated by the floods and by Cyclone Gabrielle and, put plainly, this is a period of great anxiety.

The state of the nation right now doesn’t make for great reading. Interest rates, rents and inflation are damagingly high, and investor, business and consumer confidence are worryingly low. Core public services are dire. Hospital wait times are at record levels. So is retail crime. School absenteeism is shocking. These are not records any government wants to claim, but this is New Zealand under Labour.

Globally, the war in Ukraine, rising geo-political tensions and the impacts of climate change create more volatility and uncertainty.

Added to those global events, many Kiwis up and down the country are understandably feeling frustrated and worried about the direction New Zealand is heading.

The impact of the cost-of-living crisis is being felt in households and is the most important issue facing the country right now. Labour’s mismanagement of the economy means that Kiwis are going backwards. Whether it’s at the supermarket checkout, buying a school uniform, keeping up with the rent or having to re-fix your mortgage, things are getting harder for Kiwi families. I wanted to end my State of the Nation speech on a positive note - by announcing a new policy that will help thousands of families who are struggling with the ever-rising cost of living, should National be fortunate enough to win this year’s election.

National’s new FamilyBoost policy is a childcare tax rebate, which will mean that eligible families will receive a 25 per cent rebate on their early childhood education

expenses, up to a maximum of $75 every week. This will help 130,000 families keep up to $3900 more of what they earn each year.

Families with young children are particularly vulnerable right now. The majority of these families need two incomes to keep the household afloat. But going to work often also means paying for childcare, which in New Zealand is among the most expensive in the developed world.

This is a targeted programme that will be available to families earning up to $180,000, with the full $75 a week rebate available to families earning up to $140,000.

This means that, for example, a teacher and a plumber earning $130,000 between them who are spending $300 a week on childcare would receive a weekly rebate of $75, paid fortnightly by IRD to the parents’ bank account.

This will make a real difference to people’s lives.

FamilyBoost will be fully funded by cutting Labour’s wasteful spending on contractors and consultants

for Botany Christopher Luxon

and redirecting it towards making early childhood education more affordable for lower- and-middleincome families to help make their lives a little easier.

After making this announcement, I was fortunate enough to go to BestStart Botany Road, an early childhood education centre right here in Botany. I spent an hour chatting to the teachers and children, with one of the kids asking me the most important questionwhere has my hair gone!

After making this announcement, I have heard from many families around New Zealand that FamilyBoost is going to help them be able to go back to work, pick up an extra shift, or just help cover the ever-growing everyday cost. It is reasons like this I do what I do.

A National Government I lead will be one with a big heart, a big view and a big determination to ensure that all New Zealanders do better and get ahead.

ChristopherLuxonisNational PartyleaderandMPforBotany

NZF’S WINSTON PETERS TO ADDRESS GREY

POWER

TIMESWORD

PUZZLE NO. 8101

CRYPTIC CLUES

ACROSS

7. Meet when you arrive to fetch the lady (4,8).

8. Head Silver back at a fast pace (6).

9. He’s from somewhere in England, we’re told (6).

10. Propose to, in torn clothes (7).

12. Loose coal (5).

15. Peel off, in the snow (5).

16. Dirty and sullen, the worker emerges (7).

18. Understand the maxim “It has its ups and downs” (6).

20. The dread nipper! (6).

22. Looked at unintelligently and was peeved by (4,1,3,4).

1. A short “Don’t mention it” (3,2,3).

2. Said to ring John (4).

3. Cross one on foot! (7).

4. Meted out, having a lot of time (5).

5. Kettle, the painter? (8).

QUICK CLUES

6. Footloose and it’s spring! (4).

11. Is conducive to, when one heads towards (5,3).

13. Calm, wrote the notes (8).

14. Belong to the painter who’s gone out (7).

17. Promise, when there’s sun, to put it on (5).

19. Sends down (4).

21. Talk wildly about a tailless bird (4).

Former Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters is the guest speaker at an upcoming event for senior citizens in east Auckland.

Grey Power Howick Pakuranga and Districts Association president Peter Bankers says the organisation’s next meeting is being staged in Howick on March 24.

It will get under way at 1pm with a brief extraordinary general meeting, followed by a talk from new Howick ward councillor Maurice Williamson, he says. “Quite a few members were wanting to hear Maurice Williamson in his return to politics.

“So in his new role as councillor he is our first speaker who, among other things, will speak on help-

ing the mayor [Wayne Brown] fill the hole in his budget.

“2pm sees a 15-minute refreshment break after which we experience the political homecoming of Winston Peters, who can speak on whatever he wants.

“We anticipate excitement, entertainment, tension and some enlightenment from both speakers. We finish at 3.15pm.”

Before entering Parliament in 1979, Peters worked as a lawyer in Howick. He’s led the New Zealand First political party since 1993 and served as Deputy Prime Minister in a coalition Government with Labour Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern from 2017-2020.

Peters was not re-elected to Parliament at the 2020 general election when New Zealand First received 2.6 per cent of the party vote nationwide, below the 5 per cent threshold needed. Since leaving Parliament, Peters has been a vocal critic of the current Labour Government. The meeting is at St Andrews Presbyterian Church, 11 Vincent Street, Howick, from 1pm on March 24. All are welcome and entry is free.

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters is speaking in Howick on March 24.

Photo supplied

Additional charges laid over homicide

Three people have appeared in court in relation to a fatal assault in east Auckland late last year that led to a man’s death.

The incident happened in a car park in Lady Fisher Place, Highbrook, in the early hours of November 13.

A 26-year-old man, whose name is suppressed, was killed and three others were seriously injured.

Police arrested and charged 17-year-old Soldier Huntley with murder and two counts of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

A police spokesperson says four people are now before the courts in relation to the homicide investigation.

“Two 25-year-old men and a 26-year-old man are before the court on a variety of charges.

“Those charges include wounding with intent, injuring with intent and doing a dangerous act.”

Three defendants in the case appeared in the Auckland High Court on March 8.

Immediately following the incident last year, Detective Inspector Tofilau Fa’amanuia

Va’aelua of Counties Manukau

Police’s criminal investigation

branch said three people with serious stab wounds and one person with a serious gunshot wound had self-presented at Middlemore Hospital at around 4.30am on November 13.

One of the injured people subsequently died from his injuries.

Police cordoned off the scene near Highbrook Drive and publicly appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

Investigators also wanted to hear from people who had video footage of the assault.

An online portal allowing

people to upload photos and video was set up.

“Police believe there were a large number of people present in the carpark and surrounding area at the time of the altercation,’ Va’aelua said at the time.

“It is likely some of these people had their phones recording their night out and may have captured parts of this tragic incident.”

In December last year the Howick Local Board voted to implement a 24/7 alcohol ban at the Highbrook boat ramp and car park in Lady Fisher

Second person sentenced in SFO’s $8.7m fraud case

Place, which is where the fatal assault took place, and on publicly accessible adjacent grass and coastal areas.

Auckland Council received two requests in September last year for an alcohol ban at the location.

Work by council staff identified moderate to high levels of alcohol-related disorder in the area.

There were 17 incidents of disorder caused or made worse by alcohol there over a period of 10 months.

Examples include four involving intimidation, aggression toward the public or assault with a deadly weapon.

One saw 15 people fighting, two gunshots fired, one person suffering a gunshot wound and bottles thrown at a person on the ground.

In another, a group of eight to 10 people were drinking in the car park, disturbing bystanders by arguing and throwing glass bottles on the ground and in front of businesses.

Another occasion involved 30 youths and 10 vehicles in the car park, drinking and throwing bottles, blocking an entrance to private property, dancing in the road and playing loud music.

A woman who took part in a multi-milliondollar mortgage fraud scheme with her husband and another couple was sentenced on Friday to 12 months’ home detention after pleading guilty to charges brought by the Serious Fraud Office.

Sian Grant, whose address is given as Flat Bush on the Companies Register, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to four charges of obtaining by deception and one charge of attempting to obtain by deception.

Grant’s husband Joshua Grant and his associate Bryan Martin were found guilty in December following a trial for their part in the scheme.

Martin’s former partner, Viki Cotter, pleaded guilty in July 2022 and was sentenced to nine months’ home detention in January.

Both couples sought to invest in the Auckland property market, however did not have the income needed to secure loans.

Martin used a non-trading entity, Momentum Transition Developments, and created fake employment agreements for Cotter and Mrs Grant.

By moving money between their private bank accounts, the group were able to give the impression that they received regular salaries.

Mortgage applications were initially submitted through a brokerage where Cotter was a licensed broker, and later in person.

Fourteen loan applications were made between August 2015 and October 2016 which falsely stated the applicant was employed by Momentum. In total, the four fraudulently obtained $8.7 million in loans. Five of the loan applications were in Mrs Grant’s name.

Sentencing for Martin and Mr Grant has been adjourned to April 6, 2023.

Four people are facing criminal charges following a fatal altercation in this Highbrook car park. Times photo Wayne Martin

Join our summer high tea tours

Why does summer always go by so fast?

Here at Summerset Heritage Park in Ellerslie we’re busy trying to hang on to summer for as long as possible, so we’re planning a month of summer high teas and you’re invited.

Just pop along anytime between 10am and 2pm, on any Thursday in March, and enjoy a range of delicious food, tea and coffee on us.

Whilst you’re here, why not also get a taste of the Summerset life that our residents love so much. We’d love to show you around our village and the brand-new homes available.

Love the life you choose

Summer high tea tours

Every Thursday in March, 10am – 2pm

Summerset Heritage Park

8 Harrison Road, Ellerslie 09 950 7962 | ellerslie.sales@summerset.co.nz

Cracking wordsmith and very proud West Coaster

Agnew’s Angle with Ivan Agnew

When Kiwi runner John Walker became history’s first sub-3:50 miler [recording 3 minutes 49.4 seconds at Gothenburg, Sweden] on August 12, 1975, a tall, wiry sports journalist was right there with him.

Walker, now Sir John Walker, broke the record of 3:51.0 held by his long-time rival, the great Tanzanian Filbert Bayi.

The man near the finish line was Ivan Agnew, who died in Howick on March 6 aged 80.

Sir John told the Times he was “incredibly sad” to hear that his old mate has passed away.

“He was a talented and gifted writer with a wonderful sense of humour,” Sir John said.

“He was the first to greet me with stopwatch in

hand when I broke the mile world record in Gothenburg, Sweden.”

Agnew, in his final column for the Howick and PakurangaTimeson May 18, 2022, wrote: “That race provided the highlight chapter of my second book Kiwis CanFly.”

“We shared many hours together in those years and I valued his advice and opinion,” Sir John said.

“He had an endearing love and devotion to his wife Jill and his two daughters. My love to them. RIP Ivan, you were one of the best.”

Agnew, who won the sports writer of the year award in 1970, wrote two other books, Aim High and The Loner. But it was in newspapers that he spent his working life beginning in 1960. It began at the Grey River Argus then Greymouth Evening Star and Christchurch Star before moving to Auckland

and the SundayNewswhere he worked for nine years and became sports editor.

He was the sports director at Radio Hauraki in the early-to-mid ‘80s and sports editor at the Howick and PakurangaTimes from 19851990, followed by a stint at the Auckland Star and the Sunday Star , plus several years in the ‘90s as the press officer for the Auckland Rugby Union. He returned to the Times a few years later.

Said daughter Leonie, “In total, including the years when Dad worked as a columnist after his retirement, Dad worked for the H&P Times for 33 years.”

Leonie and sister Donna are proud of their father, who was, they reckon, at times a man of contradictions.

“He was a storyteller, both in person and on the page. He was a wordsmith who could even write the odd poem,” they said.

“But, at the same time he

was a typical West Coast, Kiwi bloke – a straight talker with no stomach for nonsense, a guy who loved a cold beer and rugby with an equal passion. Dad enjoyed a good joke and everyone was friends at the bar.

“He loved people and they often opened up to him, told him their stories. I suspect this made him a good journalist. That and a genuine love of sport – he was a true fan and respected the grit and mentality of athletes. “He didn’t just follow sport, he dissected it, examined every angle and honoured every person who gave their all to the sport. I think that’s why athletes liked him so much.

“For us, he was just Dad. A passionate supporter of our Saturday netball (whether we liked it or not), supportive and proud of all our endeavours, loving grandfather to Quinn and Emmie.

“However, his greatest

achievement was marrying Mum [Jill], one of the finest ladies anyone could ever meet (she also worked for several years at the Howick andPakurangaTimes as the distribution manager. It’s a family tradition)!

“Over the last 10 years, Dad proved his mettle with his devotion to Mum over a long illness and was, hands

down, the most regular visitor on the dementia ward. This was not an easy task and broke his heart every day.

“Fortunately, West Coasters have hearts of gold, built to last, and his stoicism in the face of both loss and his own illness was an example to us all. We love you Dad. Thank you for everything.”

Young Ivan Agnew in the late ‘60s or ‘70s phoning in news copy; all who read Ivan Agnew’s sports columns would be familiar with this graphic (up in the heading) Photo supplied

Art exhibition will explore the mind

Anew art exhibition in east Auckland explores questions relating to the inner workings of the human mind.

For whom the bell(s) toll – is it you?

Rainbow Ringers are one of the best-kept secrets in Howick/ Pakuranga.

This is a group of hand bell ringers. They have been playing their music for more than 30 years. They have 48 handbells with up to 15 ringers. Practice times is at Pakuranga Park Village each Tuesday afternoon.

Over the years they have played to many audiences at retirement homes, clubs, international groups and even performed as part of a TV programme with the late broadcaster Paul Holmes many years ago.

Brian Gauld, at present the only male in the group, said, “I joined 15 years ago. While I have had no musical training, I can count quite well and that is half way there.

“The music is marked for the bells we each play but modest

musical knowledge is required.

“I have loved the challenge of playing as part of the bells choir. We play a variety of music ranging from Beethoven to the Beatles.

“We have open days soon so this is a good chance to give bell ringing a go.

“It would be great if we could have a few more men to become part of this special group.

“It is an excellent way to keep the brain cells active. Our group will particularly suit those newlyretired or people free on Tuesday afternoons for a couple of hours.”

Open days for both men and women interested in having a go at this activity will be on March 14 and March 21 at Pakuranga Park Village at 1pm.

h Contact Rainbow Ringers president Ann Day on 021 434 758 or email annday06@gmail.com.

The showcase, entitled Who canthink,whatcanthink , is on at the Te Tuhi gallery in Pakuranga until May 7.

Te Tuhi communications and programme co-ordinator Sophie Elborough describes it as a “ground-breaking exhibition”.

It “addresses our understanding and experiences of both biodiversity and neurodiversity by challenging definitions of ‘intelligence’ in relation to human and non-human cognition”, she says.

“Engaging with the work of 13 artists and collectives from Aotearoa and overseas, the exhibition has been curated by Bruce E. Phillips, a New Zealander currently based in Edinburgh, Scotland.

“While conducting research for his PhD at Massey University, Bruce realised questions around neurodiversity and inclusion have never been addressed in the 50-year curating history of the major public galleries in Aotearoa.

“Moreover, it is not standard practice for exhibitions in this country to facilitate the inclusion

of many neurodiverse people.”

Elborough says the exhibition seeks to being to readdress such silences through its subject matter and accompanying public event programme. It also tries to ensure that accessibility is at the heart of the exhibition and as a result information on it is provided in a dyslexic-friendly format as well as audio, braille, easy-read, sign language and te reo.

And for visitors who want them it offers reading aids, accessibil-

ity and sensory maps, a quiet space and relaxed events.

The artists and collectives involved in the exhibition hail from around the world.

They include US artists Devin Ronneberg and Kite, Australians Laresa Kosloff and Prue Stevenson, Scots Neuk Collective and Simon Yuill, and Kiwis Bailee Lobb and Martin Awa Clarke Langdon, among others.

Elborough says works that value the minds and neural-networks of plants and non-human animals form the “spine” of the exhibition. “Alongside these, and concerning the subject of human cognition, a number of works address how certain classifications of intelligence are linked to the control of information, language and social behaviour, with dehumanising results.

“Other works confront current discriminatory systems and propose ways that individuals and society can include a diversity of minds.”

The exhibition includes a programme of live events and will contribute to the collaborative project.

Whocanthink,whatcanthink is at Te Tuhi, 13 Reeves Road, Pakuranga, until May 7.

Turns out you can live on the golf course!

Rainbow Ringers practising at Pakuranga Park Village last month. Photo supplied

This piece by artist Simon Yuill is among the works in an exhibition at Te Tuhi art gallery in Pakuranga.

Photo by Tom Nolan

TEST OF TIME

LOCAL BUSINESSES WHICH HAVE STOOD THE TEST OF TIME

The story of the Eastgate Op Shop is one of foresight and faith. It was an idea planted in the heart of Eastgate Christian Centre’s senior pastor Allan Taylor, one evening in 1987. Some 14 years later, the vision for the shop continued to stir in his heart. When the old warehouse next door to his new office came up for sale the church purchased it and opened it as a second-hand shop to the community for the first time in 2002. Eastgate’s Op Shop is now a big part of the east Auckland community. They offer a huge range of new and second-hand furniture including antiques, linen, bric-a-brac and clothing. Great deals. Delivery service available. WINZ, Afterpay, Layby available.

21 YEARS

DE0490

9 Ben Lomond Cres, Pakuranga | Ph 09 576 1507 | eastgate-op-shop.myshopify.com

Sur face Tiling Ltd

TILING& WATERPROOFING SERVICES

Tony heads Surface Tiling in East Tamaki and has been tiling for over 25 years. The company takes on both residential and commercial projects and their expertise include kitchens, bathrooms, pool surrounds, courtyards and more. They have extensive experience in renovations and new builds and offer obligation-free quotes as well as expert advice on any project. They are trained and licensed applicators of leading ‘branz’ approved waterproofing systems Ardex, Mapei. Also BCITO qualified and members of TANZ as licensed professional and qualified tilers.

25+ YEARS

DE0491

Ph Tony 021 935 699, a/hrs 09 533 5566 | tonythetiler@xtra.co.nz | www.surfacetiling.co.nz

Rapid Property GroupLtd.

Onsite Fast Rubbish

Removal

Locally owned and operated by Tim Holmes. Rapid Property Group specialises in rubbish removal, including residential and commercial. Instead of hiring a skip bin, our staff will come to you, load up the rubbish in our trucks and take it away – it’s that easy! As well as rubbish removal and waste disposal, we have other services including lawn work, landscaping, tree work (qualified arborist), pruning and stump grinding.

DE0482

Ph Tim 0800 789 248 | tim@rapidpropertygroup.co.nz

24+ YEARS

Howick Guitar School was established 1999, teaching guitar in the Howick/Bucklands Beach area for over 20 years. We can help you reach the musical goals you always dreamed of...whether you want to be in a band, record and write you own music or just have fun with friends we have the experience and know how. Teaching songs and all styles of music for over two decades. Beginners welcome! Book a free playing assessment today. If you have always wanted to play, then don’t delay!

Ph Andrew 021 267 5702 | howickguitarschool@gmail.com | howickguitarschool.nz

DE0484-v2

Dream Doors first opened in the UK over 20 years ago and now many branches across the UK. In 2007 this was duplicated here in NZ. By choosing us, at Dream Doors Central and East, you will benefit from the quality and reassurance of a national brand along with the personal approach of a local business owner. With thousands of satisfied customers from being supplied with quality kitchens throughout the UK, Australia, USA and NZ, Dream Doors have the experience to help you make the right decision for your home.

DE0481

18+ YEARS

16 YEARS

Ph 09 533 6956 | aucklandce@dreamdoors.co.nz | www.dreamdoors.co.nz

35 YEARS

Keith Hunter has been in the business for 35 years. He has a great team of builders and apprentices who love the challenge of building quality projects, from the beginning to the end. Quality, communication and performing under pressure are paramount, so give us a call to discuss your project and let us make your dream come true. New builds, alterations/extensions, renovations/reclads, decks, bathroom, all aspects of property maintenance and seismic strengthening – we do it all.

Ph Keith 021 939 253 | keith@keithhunterbuilders.co.nz | www.keithhunterbuilders.co.nz

About Kindcare: We are a home care team that specialises in care for the elderly so that they can maintain their independence. Kindcare was established by Judi Prins who is truly a caring and kind person with a strong affinity for older and vulnerable people. Judi has over 15 years’ experience in home aged care. Judi wanted to be involved with an organisation that cared and really made a difference for older people. She also wanted to ensure that quality services were available to support and maintain independence in the elderly. It is important to Judi to have a strong relationship with her clients providing the highest quality of care by getting to know your needs and requirements. Our home care team are fully mobile and service East Auckland.

Our Services:

Judi Prins

When you choose Kindcare, you will benefit from the compassionate support of a Home Care Worker who genuinely cares and really gets to know you and your loved one. Perhaps you need a few hours of help around the house each week. Or you may be caring for a loved one who needs in-home care support. We will personalise the assistance provided by our team to suit your goals and requirements. We offer support that can be short term based or on ongoing Our team are kind, knowledgeable and highly skilled. We ensure our team are providing the highest quality of care by getting to know your needs and requirements. You can trust that all our team are thoroughly reference and police checked.

YEARS

Ph Judi Prins 0800 4 KINDCARE | admin@kindcare.com | www.kindcare.co.nz

DE0485

A fresh coat of paint: call the experts

There is no time like now to touch up the interior and the exterior of your home.

Now is the perfect time to get your interior painting booked in before the winter sets in. As the to-do list around the home builds up, refreshing the interior and exterior becomes a top priority and adds appeal and value to your property.

Naturally, a fresh coat of paint is often the way to go. Homeowners who prefer to enjoy their spare time relaxing, may be better off leaving their painting jobs to the experts from East Auckland Painting Ltd.

Debbie and Greg Mustill employ an experienced team whose skill and knowledge are second to none. They offer a diverse painting service ranging from simple repaints of single rooms through to full interior or exterior work including doors, windowsills, surfeits and roofs.

“In today’s working family scenario it so easy to let maintenance slide,” says Greg.

“Unfortunately, when paintwork deteriorates it can downgrade the value of a home, and if you’re thinking of selling it’s a turn-off to buyers. Peeling or grubby paint can make people wonder if there are bigger maintenance issues at stake. Also it is much more effective to keep on top of small jobs than put off maintenance until suddenly one is confronted by a big and costly bill to put things right.”

Debbie says now is the ideal time for painting houses, fences, garages and other buildings.

“We tackle every job, no matter how big or small, with the same thorough professionalism, starting with proper surface preparation and undercoating then carrying through to the final

topcoat and finish. Importantly, we don’t keep our customers waiting,” she says.

As an added bonus for customers, East Auckland Painting Ltd has a great all-year round special and is offering FREE pre-paint washing with all exterior repaints (conditions apply).

“In fact, now’s a good time to plan ahead and take advantage of this special,” says Debbie.

As always before painting, Debbie and Greg consult thoroughly with clients as to colour, the type of paint most suited to the job and the number of coats required.

“We use all major paint brands, such as Wattyl, Dulux and Resene, and work with oil and water-based paints. We also advise on the correct sheen to use as this can make a big difference in high traffic areas, wet rooms, or where exterior walls are exposed to the worst of the elements.”

All East Auckland Painting Ltd., clients’ receive an on-site consultation and FREE, written, no-obligation quote so there are no surprises.

“Whether we are painting a ceiling, refreshing interior rooms or tackling a full exterior repaint, we take pride in our workmanship,” they say. To give your house a face-lift with a fresh coat of paint, call East Auckland Painting Ltd Phone Greg 027 619 2619 Email eastaucklandpainting@xtra.co.nz

Pakuranga College alumna honoured for impressive design portfolio

By BEN PLUMMER

Aformer Pakuranga College Student has been honoured for her design portfolio which was recognised as being one of the top 10 in New Zealand.

Amy Yang completed her final year at the college in 2022.

Her portfolio was selected as one of the top 10 design external portfolios in the 2022 NCEA exams, meaning that her work will be part of an exhibition of the Year 13 visual art disciplines that tours the country in 2023.

“I felt shocked when I heard my work had been selected but I think the originality of the concept was part of the appeal,” she says.

The brief was for students to explore a social issue and, after first dabbling with the topic of depression, Amy was inspired to create a design that promoted giving blood.

Her logo depicts a strawberry plant bearing bloodbag fruit.

Amy says she wished to convey the message that blood reserves replenish every day, just as a strawberry grows, and therefore people can donate multiple times.

“I wanted to target youth blood donations and came up with the concept of a blood berry. The idea was that strawberries grow until they are red and ripe and then we pick them and each plant can grow many strawberries to pick.

“I wasn’t that confident when my work was sub-

mitted, but this recognition has given me a lot of assurance in my abilities,” she says.

Amy’s teacher and head of the art department at Pakuranga College, Sylvie Huang, says she is thrilled to see her student achieve at this level.

“The art department staff work very hard to create a supportive and challenging learning environment that allows students to excel and we are very proud of what Amy has accomplished,” she says.

Huang says Amy was a cheerful student who showed a strong commitment to her work and was actively involved in supporting others.

“The recognition is a testament to Amy’s hard work, dedication and the support she has received from her family and the college community,” she says.

Amy will continue her studies at the University of Melbourne in 2023, pursuing a Bachelor of Design with her major being graphic design.

She will also be taking architecture and animation as her minors.

“I hope through my studies I can explore designs that resonate with me and that I find satisfying to work on,” Amy says.

Amy says she has almost always enjoyed design and her dream job is to become a graphic designer.

“Amy is not afraid to put in time and effort to succeed and her positive attitude towards learning has allowed her to achieve,” Huang says.

The Top Art Exhibition travels the country until October as three different tours named Pohutukawa, Pīwakawaka and Kauri.

More details can be found here: www.nzqa.govt.nz/ ncea/subjects/visual-arts/ top-art-exhibition/top-artexhibition-schedule/

Amy (right) with her year 13 teacher and head of the art department at Pakuranga College, Sylvie Huang (left); Amy’s logo depicts a strawberry plant bearing blood-bag fruit- to promote giving blood, especially for youth. Photos supplied

Residents’ group asks for help over security, traffic problems

By CHRIS HARROWELL

Members of an east Auckland community have raised concerns about a range of issues in their neighbourhood with the Howick Local Board.

Brian Brown and Alan Davies of the Huntington Park Residents and Ratepayers Association addressed the board at its recent monthly business meeting.

Davies said broken yellow lines the group asked Auckland Transport (AT) to install on Huntington Drive have been installed “to a degree”.

“We’d like to get those lines further up, to track a bit further.

“Judder bars [requested] on Huntington Drive looks like a ‘no’.

“We get a lot of traffic coming through bypassing the bottleneck at the Ti Rakau Drive lights. They do a short circuit through our area.

“It’s creating more traffic and some of them are definitely not doing the required speed limit.”

Davies told the board there are uneven footpaths in the area which had been addressed “to a degree”.

“It’s only a patch-up job with tar seal. At least people won’t trip over them.

“It looks a bit untidy but that’s what we’ve got to put up with.”

He said the group also wants security cameras installed in Huntington Park.

Davies said he’d provided the board chairperson, Damian Light, and deputy chair, Bo Burns, with a letter from Howick Police sergeant Brett Meale, “who is backing what we would like to do and is supporting our application for funding to get these cameras”.

Brown said having number plate recognition [NPR] cameras at the

three entrances to Huntington Park would be helpful.

“There have been a lot of cars being abandoned and broken into and all sorts of things like that.

“The NPR cameras would record all the number plates coming in and out and that would be monitored by the police so they can track the locals from a visitor.

“That’s quite an expensive option as those cameras are around $10,000 each.”

Brown said another option would be to have a network of

cameras on residents’ homes.

“Some people would pay to buy those cameras and some you might want to fund as they’re a prime position to have a camera.

“We and the police would have the technology to log into any of those cameras if needed.”

Davies told the board the group wants to keep Huntington Park as crime-free as possible as lawbreaking affects land and house values.

He and Davies also raised the issue of rubbish being dumped at the back of The Hub business complex on Ti Rakau Drive and broken curbing along Huntington Drive.

“This is halfway around Huntington Park, just on the bend by the park,” Davies said.

“There are two gardens on either side but this sort of curbing is awful.

“I think it’s a simple job for the council to get rid of that concrete. It’s terrible, it’s awful.”

The board’s members asked Davies and Brown questions about the issues they’d raised before voting to ask AT for an update on the group’s service request regarding broken yellow lines on Huntington Drive and speeding vehicles on that road.

Road spikes stop stolen car

Police used road spikes to stop a group of youths travelling through east Auckland in a car that was believed to have been stolen.

A police spokesperson says that at about 1.45am on March 9, officers were alerted to an allegedly stolen vehicle being driven along Highbrook Drive in East Tamaki.

“Police tracked its movements as it travelled toward Howick.

“The vehicle was successfully spiked on Botany Road and eventually came to a stop on Bleakhouse Road, Mellons Bay, where six people were taken into custody.

“One person has appeared in Youth Court and five others have been referred to Youth Aid following the incident.”

A 15-year-old suspect appeared in the Manukau Youth Court on March 9 charged with unlawfully getting into a motor vehicle.

Huntington Park Residents and Ratepayers Association chairperson Brian Brown, left, and member Alan Davies want action taken over numerous issues in their community.

Times photo Wayne Martin

A brand new luxury apartment, or a villa?

Onc e you have made the decision that Pakuranga Park is the right retiremen t v illage for you, the only o ther decision is whether it w ill be one of our surprisingly aff ordable luxury apartments or a villa.

We’ve had amazing feedback about the Ruru Apartment sizes and spaciousness of the building. One of these beautiful homes could be yours, but you’ll have to be quick as we hav e only eight of these amazing apartments left.

Priced from $1,1 5 0,000 to $1,400,000.

Here are just a few more reasons why viewing this exciting option of a lifestyle apartment is a must.

Call Sylvie now to arrange a viewing o n 09 576 5990 or 027 314576 7.

Fortunes Road, Pakuranga

Ruru Apartments:

•Favourable price comparison to Villas.

•Luxury finish and fittings that will impr ess you.

•Well-positioned close to our r estaurant, reception & pool.

•An atrium lounge ar ea where daily morning teas take place.

•A weekly f ee that’s excellen t value and includes power, fibre and much more.

•Large balconies.

•An extra layer o f securit y.

•An electric car av ailable for Ruru residents’ use.

“We ended up deciding on a Ruru Apartment as we loved the space, outlook and price.”

New Resident

Named after NZ’s native owl, featured on a 4 storey Flox mural in the atrium.

AUTUMN PROGRAMME –CLIMATE RESILIENCE

I am the Flat Bush Community Coordinator for the Otara Waterways and Lake Trust.

The Otara Waterways and Lake Trust has a mission to restore the waterways of the Otara Catchment, which runs from the top of Redoubt Rd, through the Flat Bush/Ormiston area (and parts of the East Tamaki area) and finally out to the Tamaki Estuary. The waterways are heavily polluted and modified, and require urgent attention for their restoration.

My role as the Flat Bush Community Coordinator is to create events to enable community members to have a connection with the Otara waterways. Some of my activities are tree planting, walks and stream clean-ups.

Planting trees and making waterways resilient in the advent of climate change is on everyone’s minds at present following the recent flood events in Auckland. We provide the community, including businesses, an opportunity to get involved and do their bit.

Next walk is March 18, Riviera

Your opinion matters to us. Email us at editor@times.co.nz; comment on our Facebook page, facebook.com/ timesonlinenz; or write to us at The Editor, Times Newspapers, PO Box 38232, Howick, Auckland 2145. Letters should not exceed 200 words and should carry the name, residential address and contact telephone number of the author.

Reserve, Flat Bush, intersection of Clady Dr and Killarney Dr at 10am.

Please have a look at our FB page facebook.com/otarawaterways. Email Pragna@otarawaterways.org.nz.

Pragna Patel

Flat Bush Community Coordinator Otara Waterways

‘GUTTED’

HOWICK

TO BE SOLD

RSA

Re: Returned Services Club, Howick. I was absolutely shocked when I attended a recent meeting of members of this organisation that was set up to discuss the future of this club given the current state of the club.

It is to be noted that while a form giving a record of the results of income and expenditure was given, no information was given as to the income source or expenditure destination ‘detail’ as the information had not been independently audited.

Without this information, the members were asked to vote in ignorance for the sale of the RSA property to satisfy the debt (all rushed through I might add).

So no alternative discussion was had to look at other alternatives of raising finance to retire the debt.

What should be done given such bad management, because it now looks as though Howick RSA has finished?

Firstly, every paid up member that does not agree with what happened should seek an alternative to selling the property to raise funds to eliminate the debt or immediately apply for a refund for membership fees paid recently. As a service member, it has been destroying to see what has happened to ‘my club’ as it didn’t need to be this way.

IRMMcIntyre,No2867,Howick

THANK YOU TO CAR SHOW VOLUNTEERS

On behalf of our committee of volunteers who organise the Auckland Brit & Euro Classic Car Show, we would like to thank Times Newspapers very much for your excellent support for the recent event held at Lloyd Elsmore Park on Sunday, March 5. The weather cooperated very well. We had a record public

Entries open for environmental art competition

Entries are now open for people wanting to take part in east Auckland’s most prestigious annual art contest.

The Estuary Art and Ecology Award is staged at Uxbridge Arts and Culture in Howick and is the only contemporary art prize in the country with ecology at its core.

Uxbridge visual arts programme co-ordinator

Ashleigh King says artists who enter are invited to “research and respond to the Tamaki Estuary, to underscore the ecological value of this vital waterway and encourage action against its pollution”.

The contest offers a prize pool of $10,000 with the winning artworks needing to be intelligent and innovative responses to ecology in the field of contemporary art.

Entries will be judged by Benjamin Work, an Auckland artist who has Tongan and Scottish heritage.

He lives beside the Tamaki Estuary in Pakuranga where throughout his life he has experienced the changing complexities and pressures upon that unique ecosystem.

Work is the recipient of the 2019 CMBB Para Site International Art Residency in Hong Kong and a 2021 finalist in the Molly Morpeth Canaday Award.

He’s also a published author and exhibits nationally and internationally.

The competition’s partners and sponsors this year include the Howick Local Board, Tamaki Estuary Environmental Forum, Rice Family Partnership, and Gordon Harris Art Supplies.

Entries close at midnight

on May 27.

An exhibition of work by finalists will be staged from July 1 to August 26 at Uxbridge Arts and Culture.

The awards ceremony is at 2.30pm on July 1. The contest costs $25 to enter and forms are available online at the Uxbridge website, www. uxbridge.org.nz.

attendance estimated at 10,000 to 12,000+ people, and with over 1000 cars on display. We are absolutely delighted with the wide range of photographs in the following two links by Times photographer Wayne Martin: www.times.co.nz/photos/ photos-brit-euro-car-show-2023/ www.times.co.nz/photos/ photos-2-2-brit-euro-carshow-2023/

A special thank you for the work with local east Auckland stories leading up to the event and the two-page feature published on March 1. I have already thanked [the Times’] Janine Hickmore for her good work. Our committee of volunteers

is committed to organising the Auckland Brit & Euro Classic Car Show annually, now one of the largest classic car shows in New Zealand, and the only one free to the public, and among the most significant free community events in east Auckland.

The event would not be possible without sponsorship support, including from Times Newspapers. We look forward to a continuing mutually beneficial working relationship and for our next event on Sunday, March 3, 2024.

What’s on

RACE RELATIONS COMMISSIONER SPEAKS

Meng Foon, NZ’s Race Relations Commissioner, will be speaking at Pakuranga Library on the need for increased diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace and society. Saturday, March 25, 1.15pm-2pm. All welcome. Pakuranga.library@aucklandcouncil. govt.nz, Phone 377 0209.

TRAP LIBRARY EAST AUCKLAND

Trap handout and return, third Saturday of every month. Borrow or return a possum or stoat trap. Join our Mustelid Control Zone project. Register for a free rat trap with Pest Free Howick Ward. March 18, 9am to noon. Underground carpark directly below Pakuranga Library, Reeves Road side. Look for our flags.

AROUND THE WORLD’S KITCHENS

Experience the diversity of our community and promote appreciation for different cultures through tasting and sharing food from around the world. Cook on spot or bring a dish that represents your culture to celebrate Race Relations Day. Botany Library, Tuesday, March 21, 11am. To register, email botany.library@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

WORKSHOP: AWAKENING YOUR POWERFUL SELF

Enjoy an interactive and thought-provoking workshop to learn to access your unique intrinsic power, present in all of us and hear about the paradigm shift needed to manifest your desires in life. Workshop run by Saeid Bassam. Botany Library, Sunday, March 19, 11am. To register email botany.library@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

BEES AND NATURE

All are welcome to come along and hear our guest speaker Ibrahim from BeezThingz, at Howick Library, Tuesday, April 11 at 10.30am, talking about bees and nature. This is a great opportunity for adults and children to learn more about bees. Free event.

HOWICK BRIDGE CLUB LESSONS

Want to play a fun, social and competitive card game? Lessons begin March 21 at 7.30pm and March 23 at 9.30am. Ten lessons, the first an introductory one, total cost $50. 563 Pakuranga Road. Enquires to cherylhowickbridge@gmail. com or 027 277 7400. All levels of players welcome. howickbridgeclub.org.co.nz.

SINGLES, FRIENDSHIP

New Horizons Singles Social and Friendship Club for 50s-up seeking new members. We generate our own fun and entertainment. If you’re looking for company to enjoy outings, dining out, walks, movies, summer BBQs etc, contact Rachel 02102691679 or Mike 021840141 or www.auckland-singles-social-club. org.nz.

THURSDAYS @ SEVEN CONCERTS

A Night in the Gardens of Spain – Miles Jackson classical and flamenco guitar. Virtuosity and sensitivity for both classical and flamenco styles, Miles has lived and worked in Spain. A must for all lovers of Spanish guitar. Thursday, March 16, 7pm-8pm, All Saints Church, Howick. Admission by donation.

EASTERN DISTRICT

COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

Wednesday, March 22, 7pm. Everyone is welcome to listen to our live music or come and sing or play an instrument. Bucklands and Eastern Beaches War Memorial Hall, Wharf Road, Bucklands Beach. Non-members $5. Phone Bev 021 11 56 866.

U3A ORMISTON

A club for retired and semi-retired citizens, offering the opportunity to learn and to socialise. General meeting Thursday, March 23, Flat Bush Old School Hall, cnr Murphys Rd/Flat Bush School Rd, Flat Bush, 10am-12noon. Guest speaker Dr Stephen Hoadley will talk about current events in Ukraine, Russia and the United States. Visitors welcome (no charge), morning tea provided. Contact Dave 022 6449650.

Rev Dr Richard Waugh QSM Chairman, Auckland Brit & Euro Classic Car Show Committee

This work by artist Daisy Nicholas was among the winners at last year’s Estuary Art and Ecology Award. File photo supplied

A great shot taken from the cockpit of a NZ Warbirds Spitfire that did an aerial display over the classic car show.

Photo Mike Jones

PAINTING

Premier Women crowned champions after Pearl Dawson Trophy T20 grand final win

By BEN PLUMMER

Howick Pakuranga Cricket Club’s (HPCC) premier women have been crowned winners of the Pearl Dawson Trophy T20 competition to cap off a dream weekend of cricket.

The star-studded line-up of women’s domestic players showed their strength, continuing their unbeaten competition run when they faced Cornwall on Sunday.

After losing the toss and being asked to bowl first, HPCC’s premier women’s (Llamas) season standout bowlers Marama Downes (2-20), Josie Penfold (2-18), Ayaan Lambat (2-16), and Amberly Parr (3-16) shared the wickets around.

Cornwall were restricted to 90 runs, leaving a decent chase for the women if they wished to take out the grand final in front of their home crowd at Lloyd Elsmore Park.

Openers Saachi Shahri (21 off 28) and Radhika Patel (19 off 28) all but sealed the deal, putting on a partnership of 50 runs before the first wicket fell.

Josie Penfold closed the match

SITUATIONS VACANT

Macleans College

Food & Textiles Technician

out with an important innings of 19 not out off 23 balls.

HPCC chased the total down with just less than two overs to spare and five wickets still in hand to crown themselves winners

SITUATIONS VACANT

HOUSEKEEPING

Cleaning

INNER

We will place your public notice in the next available issue of the Times for only $215.90 + GST per insertion

Just give us a call or email your form to classifieds@times.co.nz

Please include your phone number

Ph 09 271 8000 www.times.co.nz

SOLUTIONS

Are you looking for a part-time job, with flexible hours only during term time? 15 hours per week flexi-time roughly 3 hours per day during the week.

Job Description:

• help with organisation of the textiles & food subjects

• ordering online ingredients for food tech, receiving and storing

• general help in both the textiles and food classes. You will work within a collaborative supportive faculty. If this sounds like you feel free to contact Rosemary.Winn@macleans.school.nz.

Application close Wednesday 22 March. MP286620

PRINCIPAL’S PERSONAL ASSISTANT

Permanent Full Time

Sancta Maria College is a coeducational Y7-13 state integrated Catholic college in Flat Bush, East Auckland. We are seeking an enthusiastic, multi-tasker, professional person to provide administrative support to the Principal.

The successful candidate will have a high level of written and oral communication capabilities, be pro-active, flexible and committed to excellence. Position to commence as soon as possible.

Please visit our website for the full role description and application form: www.sanctamaria.school.nz/employment/

Applications close on 31 March 2023. Apply via email enclosing application form, CV and covering letter to: employment@sanctamaria.school.nz DE286687

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8101

Across - 7, Schoolmaster. 8, Florin. 9, Singer. 10, Stopper. 12, Radio. 15, Grape. 16, Yiddish. 18, Frolic. 20, Mishap. 22, Butterscotch.

Down - 1, Sculptor. 2, Moor. 3, Blunder. 4, Cause. 5, Standard.

Brie. 11, Populate. 13, Instance.

Dismiss. 17, Screw. 19, Ruby. 21, Slot.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8101

Across - 7, Come to-get-her. 8, GA-llop. 9, Lester (Leicester). 10, R-aim-ent. 12, Slack. 15, Flake.

SPORTS COORDINATOR

We are seeking an enthusiastic and organised Sports Coordinator to support the College sports programme. The successful candidate will enhance participation in sports within the College. This is a permanent, full time position of 37.5 hours per week, plus weekend hours during the sports seasons.

For more details about the position and how to apply, please refer to our website: www.pakuranga.school.nz

SITUATIONS VACANT

SPORTS CO-ORDINATOR

Permanent Part Time

Sancta Maria College is a coeducational Y7–13 state integrated Catholic college in Flat Bush, East Auckland. As a school of excellence, we pride ourselves on providing students with holistic opportunities to grow. It is a school that values inclusion, service and community.

We have an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about sports to join our Sports Department in the role of Sports Co-ordinator.

We are seeking applications from individuals with the following attributes:

· High quality communication and rapport with students, parents, coaches & staff

· Willingness to work as part of a team

· Strong administration, ICT, time management and organisational skills

This position is 40 hours/week; term time only. However, some hours will be required out of school time and holiday periods by negotiation.

Position to commence as soon as possible.

Please visit our website for the full role description and application form: www.sanctamaria.school.nz/employment/ Applications close on 31 March 2023. Apply via email enclosing application form, CV and covering letter to: employment@sanctamaria.school.nz

GREENKEEPERS ASSISTANT

Whitford Park Golf Club is looking for a reliable, motivated individual to fill a Greenkeepers Assistant role as we look to increase our staff numbers. This role is not an apprenticeship or qualified Greenkeepers position but may suit someone with previous work history in this field. The role will entail some rostered weekend work. Along with the opportunity to be part of a progressive club and team, the role will come with a golf membership.

If you are keen and willing to enthusiastically help maintain our golf course and be a part of the Whitford team, please email your CV to: course@whitfordpark.co.nz

Closing date for applications is Friday 30th April 2021.

of the Pearl Dawson Trophy T20 championship.

After making the finals for each of the past four seasons – finishing 2nd once and 3rd three times – the Llamas are finally in the winner’s circle.

The premier women had a dominant weekend all round, also winning their Saturday 50-over match against table-toppers Takapuna.

It was the Neena Woollaston story, taking six wickets for only five runs after Howick Pakuranga was asked to bowl first.

Takapuna were dismissed for just 68, which left an easy chase for HPCC.

Saachi Shahri top scored again with 21, with supporting roles from Auckland Heart’s teammate Skye Bowden (14* off 12 balls) and Northern Braves all-rounder Marama Downes (19 off 23 balls).

The Llamas are on a strong run to make the finals of the Prichard

SITUATIONS VACANT

Cup Limited Over Competition to cap off an outstanding season to date.

HPCC’s premier men had a bittersweet first innings victory against Ellerslie on day two of their Tom Hellaby two-day match.

After being in a strong position after a Liam Winn batting masterclass last week, HP bowled Ellerslie out for 157 to win the first innings. Howick Pakuranga then batted again, and with the end of the day approaching, declared with a lead of 172 runs in hopes of achieving an outright victory.

Ellerslie’s openers, Abrar Alam (85* off 83 balls) and Shannon Wimalaratne (82* off 99 balls) came to play and chased down the target with 10 wickets still in hand.

The premier men face Grafton United at Victoria Park on Saturday in the first day of their final two-day match in the 2022/23 season.

CHURCH RECEPTIONIST

St Columba Church, Botany

St Columba Presbyterian Church at Botany is looking for an organised, outgoing receptionist to manage our welcome desk on a daily basis.

In this position, you will assist with a variety of clerical and administrative duties. You may also assist with invoicing, updating database files, and maintaining office supplies.

Proven work experience and proficiency with Microsoft Office is essential. We are looking for an individual who can represent the face and voice of St Columba Church whilst maintaining a professional appearance and attitude at all times.

This is a permanent part-time position, five days a week from 9am to 12pm. A full job description is available on request. Please apply to admin@stcolumba.org.nz before Sunday, 2 April 2023.

MP286603

The HPCC premier women pose with the T20 Pearl Dawson Trophy after a grand final win against Cornwall on Sunday. Photo supplied