Times - 23 November 2022

Crowds flock to Christmas Fair

RESIDENTS WIN FIGHT FOR PARK

By CHRIS HARROWELL

Apassionate east Auckland community has come together to celebrate winning the fight to maintain public ownership of its much-loved local reserve.

About 100 people turned out last Sunday for a free sausage sizzle at Golfland Park, which was among the large number of properties Auckland Council eyed for sale in an effort to raise $244 million from “asset recycling”.

The sale of local public reserves is opposed by community leaders including Botany MP and National Party leader Christopher Luxon, Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown, the Howick ward’s two councillors and the Howick Local Board.

An effective communityled effort by local residents

recently saw the council vote to not move forward in trying to revoke the reserve status of the park in Golfland Drive, which is part of the legal process that needs to be followed before it can be sold.

Joining a large number of happy locals at Golfland Park on Sunday were Luxon, Howick ward councillors Sharon Stewart and Maurice Williamson, and Howick Local Board chairperson Damian Light, deputy chair Bo Burns, and member and former chair Adele White.

As well as the sausages being served up there was also free bottled water and live music provided by two talented singers.

Luxon delivered a short speech, thanking the residents who led the effort opposing the reserve’s potential sale, including Neil Pinkerton, Roger Schneiderman and John

Mooney, and all those who participated.

“You’ve done a brilliant job stepping up and leading and activating this community, this amazing neighbourhood,” he said.

“Thank you for being so smart about how you made your submissions [opposing the sale] and for celebrating the success together.

“This is what happens when people step up.

“We believe in the National Party there are three big actors in society.

“There’s the Government, which sets the rules and the frameworks and enables stuff to happen.

“There are businesses that move with great speed and scale, and there’s the community that sees the need, the hurt, and the frustration and what’s needed on the ground.

Volunteers needed for environmental project

By CHRIS HARROWELL

East Auckland artist Daisy

Nicholas needs about a dozen members of the public to help her create an environmentally-themed project at Mellons Bay Beach this Saturday.

Her latest work is part of the Arts Out East initiative funded by the Howick Local Board and supported by Te Tuhi contemporary art gallery in Pakuranga.

Nicholas says she’ll be creating a ‘cyanotype’ that’s 20 metres long, about 1.5m wide, and is made of thin muslin fabric.

“It’s a large-scale artwork that documents environmental factors such as erosion and the movement of the water in the shallow bedrock at Mellons Bay,” she says.

“One purpose is to document the environment but I also like to bring attention to the environment in a more meaningful way so people can connect with it.

“It’s a very visual demonstration of how nature works.

“A lot of people are disconnected from the environment around them at the moment and it’s sometimes harder to reconnect if you don’t already have that connection.

“Creating this artwork visually

displays it in a really beautiful way.”

Nicholas says when the cyanotype is placed on the ground at the beach it will be a shade of green before it reacts to the sun.

It slowly becomes blue and finally settles into a “rich blue” colour, “almost tie-dyed watercolour looking”, she says.

“I’m going to need at least 10-15 people to move and place the artwork down and then remove it at the end.

“As part of it I’m providing everyone there with their own smaller cyanotype to make alongside it, as a gift.

“They’ll be able to mimic the process I’m doing on a smaller scale and they’ll be able to take that home.”

Once the cyanotype is placed on the ground it’s left there to develop.

Nicholas says it will be placed on the bedrock at the beach while the tide is out so people can explore the rock pools.

“I like to sit and watch it change because it’s a really stunning process.

“I’d like people to get there for 2.45pm and I’ll place the artwork down at about 3pm.

“The artwork will take about 40 minutes to develop and I think it’ll be finished by about 3.30pm.

“People are more than welcome to come and go while they check out what’s happening.”

Nicholas says she’s passionate about making contemporary art available to all.

“I don’t think people should be prevented from experiencing experimental art in their everyday lives just because it’s sometimes challenging.

“Mellons Bay Beach is one of my local beaches and it’s quite meaningful to me and my family because I’m fourth generation [resident] liv-

ing in Howick.”

Arts Out East broker Ashley Grogan says: “We’re so excited to be supporting contemporary emerging artist Daisy Nicholas.

“Daisy’s project demonstrates how arts can connect creatives and community with art-making.

“We can’t wait to see the installation of the artwork on display at Palmers Garden Centre on Pakuranga Road.”

People keen to help Nicholas with her project at Mellons Bay Beach this Saturday can just turn up.

Local artist Daisy Nicholas earned the People’s Choice Award at this year’s Estuary Art and Ecology Awards and her latest project is part of the Arts Out East initiative.

File photo supplied

Boot camp for worst young offenders: MP

National has launched a plan to combat youth offending with a series of actions which will include sending the worst offenders to boot camps.

National Party Leader Christopher Luxon says the party will crack down on seri ous repeat youth offenders like ram-raiders to turn their lives around and to protect the public.

“A ram-raid every 15 hours shows that Labour’s soft-oncrime approach is failing,” says Luxon, the MP for Botany.

“No place is immune from the youth crime wave, but some are being hit harder than others. For example, 20 per cent of all recent ram-raids were in the Waikato. Gang membership in the Waikato is up 70 per cent over the past five years and gangs are recruiting nearly three times faster than police.

“Enough is enough. My mes sage to young offenders is that, under National, you will face consequences for your actions.”

NATIONAL’S COMBATTING YOUTH OFFENDING PLAN WILL:

1. Target serious repeat offenders

National will create a new Young Serious Offender (YSO) category, targeting the ringleaders of crimes like ram-raids. This will apply to offenders aged 10 to 17 who have committed a serious offence such as a ram-raid, other aggravated burglary, or serious assault at least twice.

Consequences will include being sent to a Young Offender Military Academy, electronic monitoring, or being subject to an intensive supervision order in their community.

2. Create young offender military academies

National will create Young Offender Military Academies where YSOs aged 15 to 17 can be sent for up to 12 months. The academies will provide discipline, mentoring and intensive rehabilitation to make a decisive intervention in these young offenders’ lives.

The Academies will be deliv ered in partnership with the Defence Force, alongside other providers.

3. Back police to tackle gangs Some serious youth offend ing is being driven by gangs. Young people are stealing to order and committing ramraids as a form of gang initia tion. As previously announced, National will give Police greater powers to tackle gangs including by banning patches and stopping gang members gathering in public.

4. Empower community groups to break the cycle of offending

National will fund commu nity organisations and other non-government agencies to break the cycle of offending. Some YSOs will be ordered to undergo intensive supervision by community-based organi sations. This will mean they face consequences for their actions and are equipped with tools to turn their lives around, while remaining connected to their families.

“New Zealand’s youth jus

tice system works well for the majority of young offenders; 80 per cent of first-time offenders who interact with the youth justice system are dealt with quickly and put back on the right path,” Luxon says.

“National’s Combatting Youth Offending Plan tar gets the most serious repeat young offenders and will dis rupt crimes like ram-raids by removing the ringlead ers, some of whom have gang connections.

“Labour’s current approach is to wring its hands and do nothing.

That’s not working for busi ness owners getting a call at 2am to say a car has smashed through their shop, which has been looted.

Doing nothing is also not helping offenders whose lives are destined for mayhem and misery unless there’s a circuit breaker.

“National is the party of law and order and we will not ignore the serious challenges that New Zealand faces.” h Naisi Chen on crime, p5

DDL Homes owed $18 million

By NICK KRAUSE

The company behind a mas sive development on Ormiston Road called in liquidators cit ing related party companies and their debt of $18 million and their failure.

In the first report to credi tors and shareholders released recently, insolvency practi tioners Reynolds & Associates DDL Homes Central Limited said the company was incor porated in October 2018.

It was a civil contracting company undertaking civil contracting work for related parties, in particular devel opment companies DDL

Homes Ormiston Limited and DDL Homes Ormiston 2020 Limited, both of which are in receivership and liquida tion. Director Baljit Kaur Dheil, whose address is recorded as Flat Bush according to the NZ Companies office, explained to

the liquidators that the causes of the company becoming insolvent included the DDL Homes Ormiston Limited and DDL Homes Ormiston 2020 Limited (the related parties) being placed in receivership and liquida

tion. “The company is not able to continue to trade as a result of the failure of the related par ties,” the report said.

“The related parties are indebted to the company in the amount of approximately $18,000,000 for construc tion work undertaken by the company and the contractors engaged by the company on the respective development sites.”

In a statement of affairs, as at September 30, both pref erential and unsecured nonpreferential creditors are owed $1.06m and $4.06m respec tively. There are 300 creditors in total named in the report.

A body found on a beach in Beachlands is believed to belong to a kayaker who went missing a week prior.

POLICE Body found is believed to be missing kayaker

Police believe a body found on an east Auckland beach on November 12 is that of a kayaker who went missing on the Firth of Thames seven days earlier.

On November 6 police publicly announced a search was under way for a kayaker who set out from Kaiaua at about 3pm the pre vious day with the intention of fishing at mussel farms.

“He did not return as expected and was reported missing last night [November 5] by his family,” police said.

“An extensive search has been carried out since the man was reported missing.

“Police have led the search with both the police maritime unit and Eagle helicopter involved.

“Coastguard has provided assistance and a fixed-wing aircraft has also been deployed this morning.”

At about 6.30am on November 6 the man’s kayak and fishing gear was found some dis tance from Orere Point.

Police said they urgently wanted to hear from anyone in the Firth of Thames area who may have seen something which could assist in locating the missing kayaker.

On November 12 police said a body had been found in Beachlands.

They were notified at about 6.30am to a report of a body on the beach.

“Until we complete the formal identifi cation process we are unable to confirm the identity of the body,” police said in a statement.

Police said recently the formal identifica tion process remains ongoing after the body was found near Beachlands on Saturday morning.

“However, police can advise we believe the body to be that of the kayaker reported missing on the Firth of Thames on November 5.

“The matter will be referred to the coroner.

“At this stage police are not able to release the identity of the person found while formal identification procedures are completed.”

Times file photo Wayne Martin

DDL Homes Central Limited was a civil contracting company undertaking civil contracting work for related parties.

Join our birthday morning tea tour

Summerset has been bringing the best of life to our residents since 1997, which makes us 25 years young. To help celebrate, here at Summerset Heritage Park in Ellerslie, we’re planning a month of birthday cake and tea, and you’re invited!

Just pop along any Thursday in November and get a taste of the Summerset life that our residents love so much. After all, we’ve had 25 years to get it right.

And what’s a birthday without a gift, when you drop by, you’ll have a chance to enter into the draw to win an Air New Zealand Luxury Mystery Weekend for two.*

the life you choose

Youth offending ‘socio-economic’

By CHRIS HARROWELL

ALabour MP based in east Auckland says the nar rative that youths who commit ram-raids and smashand-grab burglaries face no con sequences for their crimes is false.

Police recently announced hun dreds of arrests had been made and thousands of charges laid over offending at retail businesses in Auckland and Waikato in recent months.

Police Assistant Commissioner Richard Chambers says officers across Auckland have arrested 142 youth offenders and laid 1036 charges relating to burglary, rob bery and unlawful taking offences since May.

He says some businesses have been targeted by young offenders more than once and it has a huge impact on the victims.

“Police focus continues to be on working to try and prevent this type of offending and continuing to hold to account those respon sible and place them before the courts where possible.

“We know that what drives this offending is a complex issue police can’t solve alone, so we have also been working with other agen cies on alternative resolutions for some of these young people.

“However, for repetitive offend ers, we’re taking a stronger stance.

“Police have opposed bail in many of these cases and we

will continue to do so for recidi vist offenders who pose a risk to business owners and our wider community.”

Numerous east Auckland busi nesses have been targeted in ram-raids or smash-and-grab burglaries this year. They include a dairy, a liquor store, a pizza res taurant, a fruit shop, a health foods store, a jewellery store, a home appliance store, a sushi shop, and the Ormiston Town Centre, among others.

Botany-based Labour List MP Naisi Chen says there needs to be more coverage by the news media of the consequences youths face for such offending.

“I’ve spent hours at the police station having those discussions so I can understand the youth jus tice system and the answer police give me is that it’s not without con

sequences. Not only do we catch the young perpetrators but we also are able to catch the puppet-mas ter behind them.

“There are people who want those goods taken from the smash-and-grabs and they sell on the black market. That person is over the age of 18 so there are more consequences for them, but he or she is smart enough to not go there [to the targeted store] by themselves and they use kids.

“So now the police have tools to get that person behind the scenes as well.”

Chen says some families aren’t getting the necessary support, tools, and education they need to deal with their children when they get into trouble with police.

“I see it as being two parts and one is a societal thing.

“I come from an Asian com munity where family values and

Save our public reserve

h From page 1

“That’s exactly what’s hap pened here. The community has stepped up and delivered some thing really special.”

The Times spoke with Pinker ton, Schneiderman and Mooney in early 2021, when they were campaigning to save their reserve. They’d circulated a peti tion objecting to the proposed sale that at that point had been signed by people from more than 450 local households.

Their main concern was, if

sold, the reserve could be used for high-density housing and such a development would not be in keeping with the character of Golflands’ neighbourhoods.

“It’s a public reserve that’s used by our children and for recrea tion,” Schneiderman said at the time.

“To take that away from people would be hugely disappointing. The council has to see that.”

Pinkerton wondered what the council would do next if it was able to sell the reserve.

moral values are very strong and are being taught.

“As a migrant coming to New Zealand I sometimes get shocked by what gets said in families of lots of different Kiwi ethnicities.

“The other side is socioeco nomic. If [a child’s] parents are in jail and they’re being raised by their grandparents, then they don’t have a lot of say over what they [the child] can and cannot do.

“A lot of times they don’t educate the moral side of life and just being able to see a role model.

“If their dad is in prison they don’t see that male role model, and often they go into gangs and with other people who commit crime and they think it’s a cool thing to do.”

A big plus for older people in our community.

Introducing HBH Group – homes, care and community for seniors.

Since Howick Baptist Healthcare was founded back in 1977, our not-for-profit organisation has grown considerably. Guided by purpose, not profit, we now own and manage several Auckland aged care homes, villages and community services .

For that reason, we’re delighted to introduce HBH Group, a new brand created to stand behind our growing ‘family’. Two of our care facilities also have new names – HBH Senior Living Howick Views in Union Road, and HBH Senior Living Gulf Views in Cockle Bay.

These changes will not affect the excellent, responsive care for which HBH is well known. They’re simply another step towards fulfilling our mission of creating more opportunities for older people to age well and live fully.

www.hbhgroup.org.nz

“This is one thing now but how far does it go, and what else are they going to do after that?

“Is it going to continue right through until every green space is gone? Where does it stop?”

Numerous local businesses have been damaged in burglaries this year including, from left, LiquorLand Howick, David Fels Jeweller in Howick, and Centre Superette in Bucklands Beach. File photos

Bad weather failed to dampen spirits at a community barbecue staged at Golfland Park last Sunday.

Times photo Chris Harrowell

RYMAN

HEALTHCARE PRESENTS AN AFTERNOON WITH

DR ASHLEY BLOOMFIELD

Thursday 1 December, 2pm

Join us for an afternoon with Dr Ashley Bloomfield as he shares insight into his career and the challenges he faced during uncertain times. Ashley’s vast career experiences over the last 25 years in public policy and health leadership include being based at the World Health Organization in Geneva, working on non-communicable disease prevention and control with a global focus. He has held leadership positions across multiple District Health Boards including Capital & Coast, Wairarapa and Hutt Valley where he held the role of Chief Executive. Followed by afternoon tea this event is not to be missed!

This will be a Covid-safe event and RSVP is essential. Call Rose on 09 535 0225 by Tuesday 29 November to secure your place.

BRUCE MCLAREN RETIREMENT VILLAGE 795 Chapel Road, Howick rymanhealthcare.co.nz

Final 175 pop-up soon

The final Howick 175 popup classic car display is on December 10.

It will feature about 20 classic Jaguar cars, many of which are from Rev Dr Richard Waugh’s recently published Classic Jaguars in New Zealand book,

including some east Auckland cars.

There are already 18 cars confirmed, including some prewar models from the book so the display promises to be quite special.

The publishing trust will also

offer a special Christmas and end-of-year discount to book purchasers at the event.

The pop-up events have been running throughout this 175 anniversary year at Fencible Walk.

It is estimated each

involves more than 120 hours of voluntary effort from car drivers and others, volunteer preparation and organising time, cleaning preparation, getting there early and being available over the morning.

Images from Saturday November 12’s Brit & Euro Classic Cars pop-up taken by Stephen Broadbent.

The benefits of shopping on Black Friday

Black Friday is just around the corner, and for many, this kicks off the holiday shopping season.

Black Friday in New Zealand is a shopping observance imported from the United States that traditionally falls on the fourth Friday of November – the day after American Thanksgiving.

Are you wondering whether it’s worth braving crowded stores to take advantage of incredible deals? Here are three major perks

to shopping on November 25, 2022.

1. You get more bang for your buck. Black Friday is a prime opportunity to stock up on all the items you need at a reduced price. Not only will you pay less than usual, but the deals offered will likely allow you to afford highquality models of the items you want.

2. You get to finish your holiday shopping. With the right preparation, you can check most gifts

off your shopping list before December even starts. This will reduce your stress in the coming weeks and allow you to focus on spending time with loved ones.

3. You get to be more generous. With so many items on sale, you don’t have to think twice about spoiling family and friends. You’ll also find plenty of well-priced products for coworkers, children’s teachers and other people on your gift list.

Merry Christmas Wishing you alla

Big turnout despite weather

Rain failed to dampen spirits at this year’s Christmas Fair in Howick on Friday. Raincoats and brollies came out, as did hundreds of locals happy to soak in the atmosphere of music, food and seasonal cheer. Times photographer Wayne Martin captured the Christmas fun.

Christmas window comp winners

It was wonderful to have so many registrations in our Christmas Window Competition 2022, celebrating our 175th commemorations.

Our impartial judge had a retail business in Newmarket for more than 30 years and commented on the high standard of our entries in this competition.

After much deliberation, he has made the following placements:

First: Amazing Interiors – 92 Picton St

Second: Poppies Books – 85 Picton St

Third: Marbled Delicatessen – 111 Picton St Congratulations to our successful businesses.

We would also like to acknowledge and thank the 175th committee who kindly assisted us with these awards.

Newbury Manager, Howick Village Association

Jane

Amazing Interiors’ first-placed window. Photo Wayne Martin

Marbled Delicatessen window.

Aprogramme of music from the Pakuranga Choral Society concert choir will have reflective readings from scientists and politicians, philosophers and mystics of the Muslim, Hindu and Christian faiths.

New Zealand poets Joy Cowley and James K Baxter, and the words of Carl Sagan,

Martin Luther King and Mahatma Gandhi will also feature as it tells the Christmas story through music, both modern and traditional. The first performance of a new work by conductor David Gordon will also feature, alongside international mezzo soprano Andrea Creighton, organist Michael Bell and the Rainbow Ringers

on handbells.

 Sunday, December 11, 5pm, All Saints Church, Howick. Adults $25 Seniors and tertiary students $20 School children $10 Tickets at the door (Please note starting time). https:// pakchoralsociety.wordpress. com/

Gordon, conductor of the December concert

Cranberryrosemary cocktail

The colour, flavour and fragrance of this pretty cocktail makes it an ideal drink to serve at Christmas.

INGREDIENTS | Servings: 2

1/4 cup whole cranberries, frozen

3/4 cup cranberry juice

1/4 cup simple syrup

1/3 cup vodka

3/4 cup soda or tonic water

2 sprigs fresh rosemary

DIRECTIONS

1. In each of 2 cocktail glasses, place half the ice cubes and half the cranberries. 2. In each glass, pour half the cranberry juice, then slowly add half the simple syrup, vodka and soda or tonic water. 3. Garnish each glass with a sprig of rosemary.

Grapefruitpomegranate mocktail

Raise your glass to the holiday season with this tangy, alcohol-free virgin cocktail.

INGREDIENTS | Servings: 2

cup fresh grapefruit juice

cup simple syrup

cup sparkling grapefruit water

grapefruit, sliced into wheels

tablespoons pomegranate seeds

DIRECTIONS 1. In 2 highball glasses, equally divide the ice cubes, grapefruit juice, simple syrup and sparkling water. 2. Garnish with grapefruit slices and pomegranate seeds.

Councillors backed Kendall for deputy

By CHRIS HARROWELL

One of the contend ers to become the new Howick Local Board’s deputy chairper son says the communi ty’s two ward councillors encouraged him to go for the role.

Board members Bruce Kendall and Bo Burns put themselves forward as potential deputy chairs when they and their col leagues were recently sworn in to begin their new three-year term.

The meeting at Uxbridge Arts and Culture in Howick began with newcomer Damian Light being elected the board’s new chairperson by six votes to three over rival David Collings.

Kendall and Burns were then asked to explain why they wanted to be deputy chair.

Burns said she’d consid ered standing to become chairperson, but decided against it.

“It’s not that I can’t do the role, it’s that I thought I was more prepared to work alongside Damian Light.

“He has more time than I do to put the 40 to 60 hours into that role, and I have the time, energy, passion and vision to support him, and the drive as a profes sional deputy chair.

“I would greatly appreci ate being elected in and I wouldn’t disappoint.”

Kendall said he’d had encouragement from the

community to stand for chair and deputy chair.

“I don’t really feel like I have the time to do the chair [role] and don’t really feel like I have the experi ence to be the chair, but I do have time to be deputy chair.

“I’ve developed a lot of relationships in the com munity and I think I’d be good at this role in sup porting Damian and the other board members to be the best they can achieve in the community.”

Board members then had the chance to com ment or ask questions of the two candidates.

Collings said it’s an important time for the board to work with the Howick ward’s council lors, Sharon Stewart and Maurice Williamson, both of whom were in attendance.

“I think it’s really impor tant we’ve got really good working relationships with our two councillors,

so I’d like to hear from both of the candidates in regard to that.”

Burns responded she’s a collaborative person who likes working with many people in the community.

“I haven’t had the oppor tunity to work with Sharon [Stewart] directly over any projects in the last three years.

“I don’t think we’ve all many opportunities to do that in the Covid environment.

“I’m looking forward to building relationships not just with our two coun cillors but all groups and stakeholders.”

Kendall then addressed Collings’ comments.

He said he’d spoken to Williamson that day and Stewart previously and both councillors “would very much like me to stand for deputy chair”.

“I’ve worked quite a lot with Sharon in the last term and she’s introduced me to a lot of members of the community and a lot of the issues in the commu nity,” Kendall said.

“We’ve worked together to try to progress these issues and solve them.

“Some of these projects are still ongoing, so I would like to continue in that role.

“I believe as deputy chair it would be easier to get some of these things done with our councillors and our other board members.”

Burns was eventually elected the board’s deputy chair by five votes to four.

Sixth salon at Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery

The 6th Art Salon hosted by Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery in Flat Bush has begun.

On the recent opening day, an artist get-together was held to invite par ticipating artists to return to Fo Guang Shan North Island for the opening cer emony. The Curator of Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery New Zealand, Abbess Manshin, led the organis ing team to participate in the ceremony.

The guests included Howick Ward Councillor Sharon Stewart; former MP and now Howick Ward councillor Maurice Williamson; Howick Local Board member Adele White; New Zealand Police Senior Sergeant Anson Lin; director of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Auckland Kendra Chen and more than 200 artists and their relatives

and friends.

This year, there are 90 local artists, with more than 400 artworks exhib ited in the Art Salon. There is a vast variety of art works in the exhibition, which include but not lim ited to oil painting, water colour painting, glass arts, photography, sculptures, weaving and embroidery.

Abbess Manshin deliv ered a speech to express her gratitude to the artists for returning to the Temple and coming together to celebrate the aesthetic of arts. Many artists have participated in the exhi bition since the first Art Salon in 2016.

Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery is a gift from the Founder of Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, to the world.

The art gallery team has been working day

and night to set up the exhibition.

Stewart pointed out that the temple is the pride of the community. She urged everyone to bring along families and friends to come along. She hopes the public will purchase these local artworks. Williamson, who participated in the Art Salon for the first time, shared, “It’s great to see the joy on everyone’s faces, I look forward to seeing the artworks on display and getting in touch with tal ented New Zealand artists.”

The manager of Howick Historic Village, Lexie Palmer,-Gapper a historian, said that art and educa tion are the basic building blocks of a culture. “All art works are creations made with lots of dedication, which is why these mas terpieces often have spe cial meaning and worth reminiscing.”

Bruce Kendall speaking during the recent inauguration of the new Howick Local Board. Photo supplied Auckland Council

Supermarket disorder arrests

By CHRIS HARROWELL

Several people were arrest ed following what police describe as a “disorder incident” in an east Auckland supermarket.

A police spokesperson says a number of calls were received about disorder and fighting just before 3.30pm on November 20 at Beachlands Countdown.

“[Police also received] informa tion suggesting some [members] of this group were attempting to steal items.

“Police arrived in around 10 min utes. Three people were taken into custody.”

The spokesperson says it appears there were reports of

about four people in the store who were injured, “although [it] does not appear seriously”.

The incident drew a frustrated and angry response on a Facebook page for Pohutukawa Coast resi dents, some of whom commented on a post that they were in the supermarket at the time and saw what happened.

An eyewitness said three women “lost control and started throwing and breaking things”.

One comment said a man slipped on a drink that had been spilled on the floor after being thrown by one of the people involved.

Another said an older man and a woman were injured in the incident and bystanders inter vened and held one of the women

involved.

One person described it as “dis graceful behaviour” whilst another said they saw people handcuffed and sitting on the road between two police cars afterward.

A Countdown spokesperson says: “The safety and well-being of our team and community is our absolute priority and violence or abuse of any kind is not tolerated in our stores.

“It’s upsetting for everyone involved when an incident of this nature takes place, however we’d urge members of the public not to physically intervene as this often further escalates the situation.”

The incident unfolded just hours after Botany MP and National Party leader Christopher Luxon

CHRISTMAS Howick Primary to join Cato at parade

Organisers are working on the final touches to the Farmers Santa Parade which will ringing in the festive season on Sunday, November 27 in Auckland’s CBD.

Howick Primary School this year will be getting involved in the excitement and Christmas cheer as their choir will join the parade, alongside children’s entertainer Suzy Cato.

They’ll also be singing at Santa’s Party after the parade in Aotea Square on stage alongside the tv host too.

The choir is led by Christina Bevan, who has worked with the choir for 16 years.

“It is a privilege to foster the love of singing in others and the Howick Primary School choir students are enthusiastic, responsive and learn a wide variety of musical genres throughout the year.”

Performing at the Farmers Santa Parade – the biggest Christmas parade in the coun try – will be a combination of two choirs from Howick Primary, ranging from ages 7 to 11-years-old. During the parade they’ll be singing a medley of Christmas classics such as Jingle Bell Rock and at Santa’s Party they’ll join the fun with a couple more of Suzy’s Christmas songs.

Sample the delights of our Christmas Market Day.

Here’s an opportunity to join our residents and browse their quality handiworks, affordable gifts and delicious food.

Hand made jewellery, scarves, leather goods, knitting, candles and much more. There will also be a selection of antiques and collectibles, plus unique gift cards and wrapping.

And whet your appetite with exquisite honey, Christmas cakes and all manner of scrumptious temptations. Enjoy a coffee and a muffin while you wander through the market.

Pakuranga Park Community Centre (turn off Fortunes Road into the main entrance and follow the event signs).

*License

visited Ormiston Town Centre in Flat Bush to talk about his party’s new plan to tackle youth crime.

The shopping complex has been the site of several ram-raid burgla ries this year and is only about 2km from the Counties Manukau East Police headquarters in Ormiston Road.

Luxon said he’d talked to retail ers in the mall “and what I’m struck by is the huge suffering they are under and how it plays out for them, their victims, their custom ers, their staff and people not feel ing safe in their own businesses as a consequence”.

“Earlier in the week we announced our policy around young serious offenders,” he said.

“We believe that is the answer to

ensure we’re doing the right thing to look after the victims.

“We care deeply about these young people [who are offending] but they need some boundaries and some tough love.

“And, most importantly, mak ing sure we’re keeping New Zealanders safe in their own homes and their businesses and their communities.”

When Luxon recently announced the National Party’s new plan to combat youth offend ing he said a ram-raid is being committed in New Zealand every 15 hours and that’s a sign the Labour Government’s “soft-oncrime approach is failing”.

h See page 3 for story on National’s young offender policy.

Howick Primary School choir will be getting involved in the excitement and Christmas cheer of the Farmers Santa Parade as their choir will join the parade, alongside Suzy Cato! Photo supplied

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

DO WE NEED HOUSING INTENSIFICATION IN

AUCKLAND?

Out of the five major cities where housing intensification is pro posed, Auckland has the “Unitary Plan (Operative in Part, September 29, 2016) to progressively develop Auckland.

A significant amount of con sultation was undertaken and appropriate design guidelines are provided in the AUP (Auckland Unitary Plan) to enable the city to grow as population increases.

The AUP allows for more than 900,000 new dwellings within res idential areas. From plan change 78 of the proposed housing inten sification, approximately 2,389,000 new houses are expected to be delivered in Auckland. Auckland Council’s data (June 30, 2021) sug gests that the estimated popula tion of Auckland in 2022 is 1.72 million people.

For 2048, the high, medium and low population projections are reported to be 2,624,300; 2,302,900; and 1,993,400 people respectively.

Considering the medium projec tion, the projected population of Auckland in 2048 will be 2,302,900

people.

The estimated increase in popu lation between 2022 and 2048 is 582,900 people. Reports suggest that Auckland will need 320,000 new houses by 2050.

The KiwiBank modelling reported by Stuff (April 29, 2022) showed that another 20,000 to 30,000 houses were currently needed in Auckland. Out of the 320,000 total new houses required by 2050, about 300,000 new houses will be required to provide accom modation to the new population of 582,900 people.

If 300,000 new houses can accommodate 582,900 new people, the 900,000 houses provided by the AUP can accommodate 1,748,700 new people. The total population at that time in Auckland will be 3,468,700 people.

The average growth rate between 2022 and 2048 is 22,419 people per year, it takes 78 years from 2022 to reach 3,468,700 total population in 2100.

The question is, if the 900, 000 houses provided by the AUP from a systematic growth planning can provide enough houses for Auckland until 2100, do we really

need to have the proposed housing intensification now in Auckland separately that potentially will deliver 2,389,000 new houses?

If we are planning beyond 2100, what about the planning of other infrastructure to support housing intensification?

Yuva Adhikary, Vice President – Flat Bush Ratepayers & Residents Association Inc

ANTI-SMACKED RAMRAIDERS

Were the parents of the ramraiders intimidated by the antismacking legislation of the Helen Clark government’s Green MP, Sue Bradford? This was rejected by 85 per cent of the public.

Have the raiders not known punishment for misdemeanours, but have been allowed to get away with bad behaviour? Are they aware that up to a certain age, they will only get a slap on the hand with a damp, expired bus ticket?

Corporal punishment in schools has been abolished; borstals have been closed; industrial schools no longer exist; prison is not considered to be an option; the shopkeepers are forbidden to arm themselves to protect their property.

No doubt the Government will employ a number of hand wring ers at the cost of millions of dollars when a good belt on the backside would be far more effective.

Spare the rod and spoil the child. Arthur Moore, Pakuranga

GIRL GUIDING NZ UNIT LEADERS REQUIRED

We have some Girl Guiding units that could do with a few more helping hands.

Help facilitate opportunities

for girls to contribute to the plan ning of future programmes and activities and ensure that there is a strong girl voice in the unit and that girls are heard and listened to.

Units meet weekly during school terms. Full training and ongoing support provided.

Bucklands Beach

Buckland’s Beach Pippins 5-6 year olds, Tuesday 4.15pm-5.15pm. Bucklands Beach Sea Scout Hall

Pax Tu Brownies 7-9.5-year olds, Tuesday 4.15pm-5.45pm.. Bucklands Beach Sea Scout Hall

Sunnyhills

Whetu Brownies 7-9.5-year olds, Wednesday 5.15pm-6.45pm. Glenmore Road Hall

Pakuranga

Arawhai Guides 9-12.5-year olds, Tuesday 6pm-8pm Glen House Hall

Email volunteer.enquiries@ ggnz.org.nz for more information

Sign up online: https://girlguid ingnz.org.nz/volunteers

Claudine Tonga,Volunteer

Recruitment Co-ordinator –Central and Upper North Island GirlGuiding New Zealand

CONTRARY TO ALL EVIDENCE

Re: Climate fearmongering, Ryan Price, (Times, November 16).

Ryan Price exhorts us not to fear rising CO2 levels. Funnily enough, none of the claims he makes – all highly visible and cherished on a certain sort of internet site – seem to persuade any significant num ber of scientists who work and publish in the field, or professors of physics, chemistry, zoology, botany, mathematics, or econom ics, or university leaders, or gov ernment or independent research institutions, or prestigious scien

tific societies, or the IPCC (respon sible for considering the evidence for and against and publish ing synthesis reports), or world governments, or even rational, informed members of the public ... that the science is wrong and the scientific consensus is fake.

I’m sure it’s true Mr Price does not want his grandchildren con demned to “miserable poverty”, so now might be a good time to explain to them why he holds the views he does, contrary to all the evidence, then at least they might have a reason to forgive him when their lives turn to s*** after he’s made good his departure from this life himself.

Dennis Horne, Howick

CLIMATE FEARMONGERING

Ryan Price’s letter (Times, Wednesday November 16) was like a breath of fresh air. At least I am not alone in thinking the whole man-made climate change thing is grossly exaggerated.

Kudos to you for actually pub lishing Mr Price’s comments. Normally, alternative views will not be published in the main stream media, no matter how qual ified the writer.

Lots of scientist do not subscribe to the doomsday scenario: physi cists, mathematicians and clima tologists, and computer modellers: but they are being ignored, and even ridiculed.

Science is never settled, regard less what a certain ex-president of the USA wants you to believe.

But apparently asking questions is heresay these days.

Can’t have the plebs revolting, can we.

H. Weekers, Howick

TE TUHI CAFE

Te Tuhi Cafe is hosting its annual Christmas market on Saturday, November 26, from 10am-2pm. An inclusive event designed to develop awareness, show case the community’s potential and encourage local support for NZ-made, socially conscious prod ucts. On sale are goods from One by One Candles, Our Harvest and many more enterprises with a heart for disability rights. Te Tuhi is at 13 Reeves Road, Pakuranga.

SOLO VOCALISTS’

CONCERT IN BOTANY

Some top Chinese vocalists are in town, songs of yesterday and today. Organised by the Pakuranga Chinese Association, November 25, 2.30pm-4.30pm, St Columba Presbyterian Church, 480 Ti Rakau Drive, Botany. Free entry.

GROOVE IN THE GRAPES

January 21, 2023, 1.30pm, featur ing pop/rock band Stellar* with opening acts Coupe de Ville and Hands Off. Free parking, gates open at noon. Bring chairs, shade and sunblock. Food trucks, bever age tents and picnic options avail able. Tickets $66.55pp, free for kids 12 and under. Tickets on sale at Eventfinda. Visit turangacreek. co.nz/events for details.

GENEALOGY

Scottish interest group, research day Sunday, November 20, 11am5pm, Auckland Public Library 2nd Floor, Lorne St, City. Scottish Interest Group usual meeting time 12pm-1pm. Help with research. Bring own lunch, tea/coffee provided. Free admission, all welcome.

INTERCULTURAL CLUB

Topic in November – How to Appreciate Chinese Painting, Tuesday November 29, 3.30pm4.30pm. Fiona Luo, the founder of Art One International will talk about traditional Chinese painting and explain how to appreciate it. There will be a demonstration by local artists to follow. All welcome!

The talk will be delivered in both English and Chinese. Highland Park Library, 16 Highland Park Drive, Phone 377 0209.

EXPLORE NEW ZEALAND WALKWAYS

Sunday, December 4, 2pm-3pm. Get out and explore these sum mer holidays! Come and listen to John Spiller, local avid tramper, talk about his visit to the Heaphy Track and other great local tracks, including the Mangemangeroa Walkway and Rotary Walkway. Registration required. To register,

phone 377 0209 or email high landpark.library@aucklandcoun cil.govt.nz; or message us on our Facebook page @highlandparklib, Highland Park Library, 16 Highland Park Drive.

AGE CONCERN SUPPORT SERVICES

Monday, December 5, 10.30am11.30am. Join Highland Park Library as we host a presenta tion by Diane and Leti from Age Concern Auckland. The session will be an informal talk on the services Age Concern provides, with a Q & A session at the end. Registration required. To reg ister, phone 377 0209, email highlandpark.library@auckland council.govt.nz or message us on our Facebook page @highland parklib, Highland Park Library, 16 Highland Park Drive.

LEARN WATER SAFETY

Saturday, December 10, 1.30pm3pm. Keep you and your fam ily safe this summer by learning about how to stay safe near the water. Madison from Drowning Prevention Auckland (DPA) will talk about water safety. The ses sion will include a live demon stration on using life jackets, opportunity to ask questions and giveaways at the end. All welcome.

Highland Park Library, 16 Highland Park Drive, phone 377 0209.

EASTERN DISTRICT COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

Wednesday, November 30, 7pm. Come and be entertained with live music or come and sing or play an instrument. All visitors welcome. Bucklands and Eastern Beaches War Memorial Hall, Wharf Road, Bucklands Beach. Non-members $5. Phone Bev 021 11 56 866.

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS MARKET

Come and buy Christmas goodies from the Christmas Market stalls at Botany Library. Community groups held at Botany Library and local businesses will be contribut ing items where a portion of the sales will be donated to KidsCan. Sale items will include food, small, knitted goods, potted plants and handmade gifts. Cash only. Saturday, November 26, 10am2pm. Email botany.library@auck landcouncil.govt.nz.

CONSUMER RIGHTS SESSION

Migrant Connect Citizens Advice Bureau Pakuranga invites you to a free information session on ‘Know your Rights as a Consumer’ facili tated by Auckland Community

Law Centre on Friday, November 25 at Howick Local Board Room, Pakuranga Library Building, Pakuranga from 11am-2 noon. To register text 021 459 520 or email settlement.pakuranga@cab.org.nz.

CHILDREN’S AUTHOR

Come along and hear children’s author Renisa Viraj Maki read her recently-published book The Grandmothers of Pikitea Street at Howick Library, Tuesday, November 29 at 10.30am. Renisa’s book will be available for sale on the day. All Welcome.

ZONTA EAST AUCKLAND

After a very busy year, we are hold ing our final meeting at the Howick Club on December 6 at 6pm. Please join us for dinner and to hear our guest speaker Vivienne Broderick tells us about her life as a train ing consultant who works with a large number of people to help them grow professionally and per sonally through her training and one on one coaching. She’ll tell us about personality profiling and why she considers it so impor tant. If this sounds interesting to

and you would like to learn more about Zonta, we welcome you at our dinner meeting. Phone President Gay Gallagher, 021 145 1574.

Bruce McLaren Retirement Village along with the Howick Art Group warmly invite you to their art showcase.

This is a free event Refreshments will be provided Village tours available

Artwork from this talented group of artists will be displayed in the Village Centre and all artwork will be available for sale.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the artwork will go towards our charity partner, the Fred Hollows Foundation.

This will be a Covid-safe event and RSVP is essential. For more information or to RSVP, call Rose on 09 535 0225.

BRUCE MCLAREN VILLAGE 795 Chapel Road, Howick rymanhealthcare.co.nz

‘Kōtuku’ by Elise De Silva

Congratula�ons To Our Senior Achievers of 2022

UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

AUCKLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY (AUT)

Find Your Greatness Scholarship ($23,000)

Ashleigh Au, Vrunda Patel

Find Your Greatness Scholarship ($14,000) Bianca Day

UNIVERSITY OF AUCKLAND

Top Achiever Scholarship ($20,000) Thomas Donnell

Academic Potential Scholarship ($6,000) May Thazin

UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY

Hiranga Scholarships ($5,000)

Leila Alsabak, Viraaj Kapadia, Manveer Singh Saini Horomoata Scholarship ($6,000)

Leila Alsabak

Kaupeka Ture Scholarship ($5,000) Leila Alsabak

Go Waitara Scholarship ($5,000) Jaime Leckner, Jaime Skilton

UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO

Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship ($30,000)

Leila Alsabak, Thomas Donnell and Hazel Stratford

Leaders of Tomorrow Entrance Scholarships ($6,000) Zachary Wight

Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship ($5,000)

Neske Growewegen, Vienna McDowell, Vrunda Patel

Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship for International Students ($10,000) Kaveesha Chandran

Māori Entrance Scholarship ($14,000) Kaiin McOnie

Māori Entrance Scholarship Summer Ellis

Pacific Peoples Entrance Scholarship ($18,000) Mose Milo

Pacific Peoples Entrance Scholarship ($16,000)

Myah Leilua

New Frontiers Entrance Scholarship ($2,000) Holly Nelson, Emma Tucker

VICTORIA UNIVERSITY

Tangiwai Scholarship ($5,000)

Hazel Stratford, Amber Vodanovich

Totoweka Scholarship ($5,000)

Stephanie Cary, Alana Pereto

Raukaraka Scholarship ($10,000)

Leila Alsabak

WAIKATO UNIVERSITY

Te Paewai o te Tangi: Scholarship for Outstanding Academic Achievement ($28,000 over 3 years)

Hayden Corbett, Manveer Singh Saini

Ko Te Tangata School Leaver Scholarship ($7,000)

Ella Deane, Viraaj Kapadia, Akshay Patel

Ko Te Tangata School Leaver Scholarship ($5,000)

Hannah Burt

Senior Scholar of the Year and 4Cs Values Award Leila Alsabak

Deputy Head Student 2023 and Zonta Award For Female Leadership Ka�e-Rose Pemberton

Deputy Head Student 2023 Jack Styles

Performing Arts Award Amber Vodanovich

Sportsperson of the Year

Joshua Willmer

Hazel Stra�ord, Sophie Zaadstra

Manukura Tane and Head Student 2023 Mitchell Carr Head Student 2023 Tiana Thomson

Erika Sawyers

Family’s legacy spans 160 years

This year marks the 175th anniversary of Howick, Pakuranga and districts which presents a wonderful opportunity to feature people in the area and their memories of their past. These are the thoughts of Kenneth Victor Kelsey, born in Howick on June 27, 1940.

The Kelsey family has been associated with Howick since 1862 when my grandfather Frederick William Kelsey arrived in New Zealand on the William Miles from Hull.

In the late 1870s, he and his wife Clara opened the Kelsey General Store and Furniture makers in Howick on the ground floor of their family home. They raised their 11 children there. How they all fitted in, I can’t imagine. The house still stands today on the corner of Howe Street and Ridge Road but without its top storey which was removed to Mellons Bay to accommodate my Uncle Fred (Dad’s brother) and his wife.

It was my grandfather Frederick William Kelsey who started the 60-acre farm on the corner of Bleakhouse Road including five acres on the corner of Howe Street, opposite where the old homestead and store stood.

One of the Kelsey sons, my father, Kenneth Allpress Kelsey with his wife Isabella and their five children, carried on the family business in the old homestead, as well as running the local milk float and tending the farm. Roads were unsealed and muddy and the draught horses

pulled wagons all over the village.

My father bravely fought in WWI and is buried in St Andrew’s Presbyterian churchyard in Vincent Street.

I had a very happy childhood helping on the farm and swimming at the beach, occasionally getting into trouble if my mates and I decided to go eeling in the creek or fishing instead of going to school!

I was educated at Howick District High School where I enjoyed English and Maths but especially woodwork. I had been brought up

around cabinet making and tools and eventually left school to work for a cabinetmaker in Khyber Pass in Auckland.

I can remember the wheels of my motorbike getting stuck in the tramlines in town until I could afford a little car. The apprenticeship took five years or 10,000 hours, I loved the work and eventually started my own business. I am proud to say Kelsey Furniture Restoration is still going strong in the original premises in Remuera where my daughter Jennie has followed in my footsteps as a master cabinet maker.

I met my wife Ann at a dance in Pt Chevalier and we were married in 1961.

After the Kelsey farm was subdivided in the 1960s, I bought a section in Mellons Bay Road where I built a family home on weekends and in my spare time.

Although now in a retirement village, I still enjoy the occasional ballroom dance and playing Rummikub.

I keep in touch with my old friends through the Howickian get-togethers and will definitely be raising a glass to the 175th celebrations.

Howick Library 175th anniversary celebrations

East Auckland Embroiderers’ Guild is partnering with Howick Library celebrating Howick and districts’ 175th celebrations.

There is a display of work showcasing traditional and contemporary work stitched by members of the group. This includes a wallhanging featuring historic homes in the Howick district.

Howick Library has invited us to have small groups stitching in their library during the week at different times – if you see them, please go and say hello, and look at their work.

For further information about the guild, we have a Facebook page –East Auckland Embroidery Guild or contact eaegpresident@gmail.com.

 We meet on the second Thursday morning of each month at 9.30am and the fourth Tuesday evening of each month. Both meetings are at St Columba Youth Hall, Botany.

THANK

TO YOU ALL!

Howick and districts 175th anniversary highlight events have been a great success.

The community luncheon was a full house, with a wonderful cross section of the community gathered and a festive atmosphere.

Then the highlight weekend. At Waipaparoa/Howick Beach the community picnic had it all –the tide was in, the sun was out, a sea breeze, so many families and children having fun, many water activities, and delicious food. Informative speeches were about the history of the beach and the Fencible families’ arrival.

Later, the Fencible families’ plaque was unveiled at Fencible Walk Park in the centre of Howick. The ambience was set by the Howick Brass Band and a good crowd in attendance. Simeon Brown MP and Christopher Luxon MP unveiled the plaque – do visit at 110 Picton Street and read the important wording and see the nearby new wall mosaic.

Many people then visited All Saints and the iconic historic church built for the Fencible families in 1847. The civic service acknowledged the faith and aspirations of the early pioneers and all they contributed to the community we know and love today. Wonderful music and young people’s participation was another highlight.

Then to top it off a successful live day at Howick Historical Village reminding us of just how precious the resource of the village is to all our citizens, and to wider Auckland.

Thank you to 175 Trustees Morrin Cooper MBE, Jim Donald and Alan La Roche MBE. It was Jim who helped begin

the 175 planning initiative back in 2016. Thank you to 175 Committee members Philippa McGimpsey (Secretary), Marin Burgess (Heritage Leader), Katie Treneman (Treasurer) and John Russell, Jim Donald, Reay Neben and Adele White.

We gratefully acknowledge and thank all our sponsors and supporters (please read the long list in this feature), especially recording our appreciation for the significant financial support from the Howick Local Board and the leadership of former chair Adele White.

So much work has been done by many volunteers including our willing 175 ambassadors representing a diversity of cultural groups.

For me, one of the key highlights was the work done to encourage many of our younger people to have a better understanding of Howick and districts history. School projects and artwork was a thrill to see, especially the wonderful creative 175 drawings.

There has been a ‘dawning consciousness” from so many of our east Auckland community about the important settler history of our area. As someone said, “I had no real idea just how unique our Howick history is.”

Yes, the new plaque in Fencible Walk will last for generations. What is even more important is the impression the 175th anniversary year is making on our children and young people’s lives now – and how they are much better informed about our history to take with them into the future.



Rev Dr Richard Waugh is chair of the Howick 175 Committee

Rev Dr Richard Waugh (above) at the Howick Coastguard premises at Howick Beach during the 175 picnic; The new plaque in Fencible Walk at the unveiling on November 12. Rev Dr Richard Waugh (right) is with National Party leader and Botany MP Christopher Luxon and Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown. Times photos Wayne Martin.

Kenneth Victor Kelsey, aged 82 years. Photo supplied

Holmes makes NZ squad

Local athlete Patrick Holmes has been selected to represent New Zealand in sev eral top class powerlifting events.

Holmes will compete in the 2022 IPF Commonwealth Classic and Equipped Powerlifting Championships, Classic and Equipped Bench Press Championships and Special Olympics Classic Powerlifting Championships in Auckland between November 28 and December 4.

Holmes and his good friend James Wilson, both with the Howick/Pakuranga Special Olympics Club, have been selected.

Holmes said it is a great honour to com pete for New Zealand and hopes to come away with a medal. There is a large team from New Zealand competing against other Commonwealth countries and he hopes that everyone will get a medal as well.

He has trained hard for this but has had a foot injury in late October which meant he missed some training but said he will be fit for the event.

Holmes and Wilson will be competing on November 30 and those wishing to go along and support the New Zealand team can go to the Due Drop Events Centre (previously Vodafone Events Centre) in Manukau.

COMMUNITY

Elim College Middle Years Athletics Day fun

Elim Christian College has held its first Middle Years Athletics Day since 2020.

“It was such a success,” said Elim’s Golflands Campus Lead Mandy Heim.

Senior students sold snacks and raised more than $400 for Interact, the youth arm of Rotary.

“The enthusiasm and delight of all our participating students is vis ible on the many faces,” said Heim.

“We had almost 85 per cent attendance on the day and the general comment was that the day was fun and cool to be outside at a great facility.”

BASEBALL 19-year-old prospect contracted to Tuatara

By BEN PLUMMER

Howick Hawks outfielder Tui Amosa is among the four young baseballers who have received a development player contract with the Auckland Tuatara for the 2022/23 Australian Baseball League (ABL) season.

Amosa, 19, finished his last year at Botany Downs Secondary College in 2021 and has already racked up several impressive accolades.

Amosa made his Auckland premier grade debut for the Howick Hawks when he was just 15 and has represented New Zealand in age-group baseball for the Under 12, 16 and 18 sides respectively.

General manager of sport and communications for Auckland Tuatara Dale Budge

says, “Tui is someone we have been keeping an eye on for a couple of seasons now.

“He is very talented and combines that with a great

attitude. We hope to continue to see him in a Tuatara uni form in the years ahead.

“He has plenty of athleticism and a nice left-handed swing. We think he is one of the best prospects in New Zealand and feel he can go a long way in the sport.”

“Having experienced the competitive aspect the sport brings, it has allowed me to develop the drive and motiva tion to develop and sharpen my skills in all areas of the game, both physically and mentally,” says Amosa.

Dan Amosa, Tui’s father, says he has been playing since October 2009, at age six, and has made it clear that’s what he has wanted to pursue since he was about 13.

“There was no Tuatara or much baseball in New Zealand

for that matter when he was younger, so we were mapping out a path to get to America to go through the NBL (National Baseball League) farming system or college route,” says Amosa.

“It has been our life support ing Tui with his baseball, as with all our children - we are there week in, week out,” he says.

The Auckland Tuatara have given a further three contracts to Central City infielder Ayrton Laird and left-handed pitch ers Todd Hatcher and Maclain Roberts.

The New Zealand side begun their ABL season on November 10 when they travelled to Brisbane for a four-game series against the Brisbane Bandits, which they lost three games to one.

Tomato grow-off turns into fierce rivalry

By BEN PLUMMER

What started out as a friendly, morale-boosting community competition has turned into a fierce battle to be crowned the first Apothecary tomato growing champion.

A competition set up by the Apothecary Licensed Eatery’s Ted Waters and friend Greg Holmes has given members of the com munity a chance to ‘exercise their green thumb’ and grow the heavi est tomato possible.

Holmes, who came up with the idea, planted about 80 beefsteak tomato plants for the competition, not thinking the idea would be so admired.

“Now we have run out and peo ple are still coming in wanting them,” says Holmes.

The plants were given out free of charge at the Apothecary to any one who wished to participate.

“It was just an idea for a bit of fun over summer, to get people involved and bring the community together a bit more,” says Holmes.

Competitors are asked to send in progress pictures to a Facebook page set up for the competition

“People have started naming their tomatoes and getting quite into it which was been awesome,” says Waters.

Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown, Opposition Leader Christopher Luxon and former rugby league star Richie Barnett are among those hoping to take out the ulti mate title as the Apothecary tomato growing competition champion.

Holmes says that if the compe

tition takes off it will become an annual rivalry in the community and might look into a potato grow ing competition over winter.

“There have been a few cheats already… one lady sent in a pro gress picture of a big red capsicum under the plant,” says Waters.

The official weigh-in will be held at the Apothecary Licensed Eatery at 2pm on January 22, 2023, giving contestants almost three months to nurture their tomatoes.

“Afterwards we’ll probably put them all in a blender and gel a few Bloody Marys together,” says Waters.

There will be prizes for the top three heaviest tomatoes; 1st place – $150 bar tab and a trophy; 2nd place – $75 bar tab; 3rd place – $25 bar tab.

POWERLIFTING

Patrick Holmes.

Photo supplied

Greg Holmes, left, and Ted Waters came up with the friendly competition to bring the community together over summer.

Photo supplied

Tui Amosa, 19, has received a development player contract with the Auckland Tuatara for the 2022/23 Australian Baseball League season. Photo Richard Spranger

There was colour, fun and plenty of action at Elim Christian College’s Middle Years Athletics Day.

Photos Ruth Beale

PAINTERS

A1 CHINESE PAINTERS

SUNDAY MORNING – 8AM – 1PM: $25 PER HOUR

Can you open UXBRIDGE on a Sunday morning at 8AM and lock up again at 1PM? During that time, we’d also ask you to do simple repairs, like filling a few holes or sticking back a fascia strip. Nothing very physical and nothing challenging – just superficial jobs that you probably do at home anyway.

Although this is only a few hours a week at the moment we do anticipate that we’ll require more hours in future. This job is likely to suit someone local to Howick.

INTERESTED – DROP BY FOR A CHAT Monday – Friday, office hours. If that’s not convenient call 027 464 2926 to make another time.

UXBRIDGE (NEXT TO THE LIBRARY), 35 UXBRIDGE ROAD, HOWICK DE285483

Curtains/ Romans

Venluree is NZ’s leading blind manufacturer and in the past 6 years we have expanded into the curtain industry. Due to the success of this venture and the ongoing demand we are looking for an experienced sewing machinist.

Our manufacturing facility is located in the Highbrook Industrial area of East Tamaki Auckland. All machinery, tools, and material will be supplied.

To be considered for the role you must have the following attributes:

• Able to work at speed while maintaining excellent quality & workmanship

• Be proactive and helpful to others in the team

• Reliable, honest and able to work unsupervised Keen to learn as we will show you all duties within the department

Applicants for this position should be entitled to work in NZ.

If this sounds like you then please apply in the strictest of confidence by sending an up to date CV to: tarsis@venluree.co.nz

BUILDERS WANTED

We require experienced builders to join our small energetic team of passionate tradespeople specialising in higher end renovations/alterations and the occasional new build.

You must be experienced, have all your own tools and transport and enjoy the team atmosphere.

Be time conscious, polite to clients and willing to go that extra step to impress.

Please call Keith on 021939253 or email your CV to keith@keithhunterbuilders.co.nz DE279387

SITUATIONS VACANT

LIVE LOCAL, WORK LOCAL

Pakuranga Park, is an evolving and growing village. With the village undergoing an extensive regeneration and our new Ruru apartments selling fast, we are looking to expand our team.

We are currently looking for the following positions, Registered Nurse, Care Givers, Maintenance Hand, House Keepers.

If you are interested in joining our team please email ursula.glynos@realliving.co.nz with your CV

SITUATIONS VACANT

FENCING FOREMAN & FENCING LABOURER POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Reliable workers wanted, opportunity to grow within the company. Competitive pay based on experience/skill Please email c.v to accounts@absolutefencing.co.nz Or call Kirsty on 0211776279 DE284872

SERVICE ENGINEER

We are a leading NZ importer, manufacturer and distributor of commercial and industrial duty water blasting equipment, high pressure pumps and agricultural spraying equipment.

Our office and workshop is located in East Tamaki.

We require an Engineer/Technician to service our electric, petrol and diesel powered water blasters, pumps and hot cleaners, to do P.D. checks of new equipment, assist with assembly work, and liaise with customers on service matters from time to time.

LEARNING ASSISTANT FIXED TERM

You should have experience servicing pumps, or hydraulics, be familiar with petrol and diesel engines. A NZ Electrical Service Technician certificate would be useful, but not essential.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills are a requirement.

PAKURANGA COLLEGE Assistant to the Associate and Deputy Principal Team

We are looking for an enthusiastic and organised assistant to work within our Administration Team to provide support to our Associate Principal and our five Deputy Principals. This is a permanent, full-time position of 37.5 hours per week, secondary school term time only.

Start date is Term 1, 2023.

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

DE275352-v4

Owairoa Primary School Howick

TEACHER AIDE SPECIAL NEEDS

We are seeking an understanding and compassionate person who is able to manage, nurture and support Special Needs Students with their learning. Hours 9.00am-3.00pm Monday to Friday. Term �me only.

Applica�ons to: Jane Huang, Human Resource Manager jane@owairoa.school.nz

DIRECTOR OF SPORT

Sancta Maria College is a Year 7-13 State Integrated co-educational Catholic Secondary School with 1000 students in Flat Bush, East Auckland. As a school of excellence, we take pride in providing students with holistic opportunities to grow. It is a school that values inclusion, service, and community.

We are currently seeking a Director of Sport who will have the vision, strategy, commitment, and ability to lead and enhance Sancta Maria College’s growing sports programme. The Director of Sport is to drive our school sport to new heights through increased participation, performance and promotion using a strategic approach, sound financial management and strong collaborative leadership, along with supporting the strategic aims and the special character of the school. Commitment to the special character of the college is a condition of employment.

This is a full-time, permanent position (which includes some after school hours and some weekend work).

Start Date: 31 January 2023

Applicants for this position should have NZ Residency or a valid NZ work visa.

Send your application form and all required supporting documents to the Principal’s PA at employment@sanctamaria.school.nz Visit the school website at www.sanctamaria. school.nz/employment/ for application forms. DE285562

DE283490

Applications close on 2 December 2022.

DE285577

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Any applications taken forward will be required to undertake a pre-employment health assessment through an external provider to confirm work fitness including Drug and Alcohol screening. You must be an NZ citizen, have NZ Permanent Resident status or a valid NZ work visa.

If you have the above attributes and are excited at the prospect of joining a progressive and dynamic company, then please apply!

Forward cover letter and CV to jobs@gleesoncox.co.nz. DE285344

We have a vacancy for a classroom-based Learning Assistant to support a Year 7 student with special needs. The posi�on is fixed term (term �me only) commencing on Wednesday, 1 February 2023 through to 6 April 2023 with the possibility of being extended term by term throughout the 2023 school year.

Hours of work will be Monday – Friday 10.15am2.45pm totalling four hours per day. Remunera�on is in line with Grade A3 set out in The School Support Staff Collec�ve Agreement 2022-2024.

Flexibility with hours is required. Previous experience is desirable but not essen�al.

Please forward your CV and covering le�er by 4.00pm, Wednesday, 30 November 2022 to enquiries@farmcove.school.nz.

APPLICATIONS FOR THE ROLE OF PURC GENERAL MANAGER

NOW OPEN

With the retirement of our current General Manager, applications for the role of General Manager Pakuranga United Rugby Club are now open.

PURC look to build on our position as one of the premier NZ community based sporting clubs with the appointment of a new General Manager early 2023.

The role offers a sporting administrative professional all the management components; multiple sporting codes, facilities management, hospitality, an established high performing administrative team that is supported by a professional board of management.

With the creation of the Howick & Pakuranga Community Sports Centre as the central theme, we are poised to implement some aggressive capitol and operational plans that will evaluate the organisation to a premium position of sports delivery across multiple codes with one of the best community facilities in the country.

If you are interested in this role or know someone who fits bill, in the first instance have them send their CV to our Chairman at robn@safarigroup.co.nz

The job description for this role can be downloaded by clicking the attached link.

https://www.sporty.co.nz/asset/ downloadasset?id=e0a2b138-7fb4-456d-9b4e36d070a8d307

GM Job Description 2023.

Full training will be given.

Position would suit a person who enjoys working in a small friendly team environment.

Please e-mail your application to:

The Director – AES Waterblasters alan@aesblasters.co.nz www.aesblasters.co.nz

DE283673

TEACHER AIDE

Somerville Intermediate is looking for a committed and compassionate Teacher Aide to work alongside students with additional needs to suppor t them with their learning. This position requires someone who has a high degree of empathy, enjoys working with children and can work on building student confidence within classroom environments.

The position is 25 hours per week, fixed-term until 16 December 2022, commencing as soon as possible.

The successful applicant will:

Somerville Intermediate is looking for a committed and compassionate Teacher Aide to work alongside students with additional needs, to support them with their learning. This position requires someone who has a high degree of empathy, enjoys working with children and can work on building student confidence within classroom environments.

● Show patience and empathy

● Be flexible, adaptable

● Demonstrate both initiative and the ability to take direction.

The position is 25 hours per week and is fixed-term. The position will commence on 1 February 2023 and finish on 16 December 2023.

● Have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to create meaningful relationships

The successful applicant will: Show patience and empathy

● Enjoy working in a busy team environment

● Able to work 1-on-1 or in small groups helping with reading, writing and maths

Be flexible, adaptable

● Be an excellent communicator in English (both written and verbal)

● Be an NZ resident, or have a current work visa and is eligible to work in NZ

• Demonstrate both initiative and the ability to take direction.

Pay rates in accordance with the Suppor

• Have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to create meaningful relationships

t Staff in Schools’ Collective Agreement.

Please send your CV, including referee details, to Steph Ready sready@somint.school.nz

Enjoy working in a busy, team environment

Able to work 1-on-1 or in small groups helping with reading, writing and maths

Applications close Wednesday 29th June 2022

• Be an excellent communicator in English (both written and verbal)

Be a NZ resident, or have a current work visa and is eligible to work in NZ

Pay rates in accordance with the Support Staff in Schools’ Collective Agreement.

Please send your CV, including referee details, to Jo van der Mescht jvandermescht@somint.school.nz

Applications close Wednesday 7 December 2022

Browse our digital papers online www.times.co.nz both current and past issues

CARETAKER

Howick Primary School is looking for a technically minded, self managing person to join our team. Previous experience in property management is advantageous. Duties include:

• Maintaining school buildings and the immediate surroundings to the highest standard

• Ensuring that Building Compliance obligations are met

• Ensuring that the school building and site are clear of litter and cleaned to the highest standard

• Preparation for assemblies and school events

• Security – opening the school in the morning

• Responsible for site and buildings health and safety and comply with legislation Hours are 7:30am-4:00pm during the term time and by negotiation during school holidays. These can be negotiated for the right applicant.

The position start date is negotiable. All applicants must be police vetted and hold a full drivers licence. CVs should be emailed to m.earl@howickprimary.school.nz

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8087

Across - 6, Chloroform. 8, Plod. 9, Flat. 10, Raise. 11, Laid. 12, Grenadier.

16, Nipponese. 20, Cuff. 22, Lasso. 23, Warp. 24, Blue. 25, Conspiracy.

Down - 1, Choler. 2, Fortune. 3, Torrid. 4, Polite. 5, Impel. 7, Comic. 13, Imp. 14, Unaware. 15, Sully. 17, Insane. 18, Prompt. 19, Spruce. 21, Fleck.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8087

Across - 6, String-bean. 8, Duck. 9, Co-op. 10, (Bat)Terse(a). 11, R-apt. 12, Test-match. 16, Land of nod. 20, (th) G(in)-rab (rev.). 22, A-vers(e). 23, Ruff (rough). 24, Bent. 25, Hours on end.

Down - 1, St-rove. 2, Dis-p-ute. 3, A-gat-ha. 4, C-edric. 5, Under. 7, S-cope. 13, TaN (rev.). 14, Affront (a front). 15, Order. 17, A-venue 18, Des-I-St. 19, Off-end. 21, Bat-he.

CRICKET

Walsh, Young dominate with the bat for HP

By BEN PLUMMER

Howick Pakuranga Cricket Club’s premier men opening batters Bill Walsh and Daniel Young have starred in day one of the side’s first home game of the season against Kumeu. Walsh (70 not out) and Young (72 not out) were the only Howick Pakuranga players to get involved in the game before rain ended the day’s play leaving the home side 149/0.

These performances have put Howick Pakuranga in a strong position before the second day of their fixture against Kumeu on Saturday.

Howick Pakuranga’s premier women had a difficult weekend of cricket trav elling to Wairau Valley to play a strong Takapuna district side.

It proved a difficult day after being asked to bat first as the Llamas (HPCC Premier Women) struggled to form partnerships and were dismissed for 61 after 24 overs.

Takapuna’s dominant bowling side can take the credit for the strong performance before the team went out to chase Howick Pakuranga’s total.

Three early wickets from impressive opening bowlers Holly Lightbourne and Ayaan Lambat left the home side scram bling with only 16 runs on the board.

The hope was short-lived as Takapuna chased down Howick Pakuranga’s total in 14 overs with seven wickets to spare.

The HPCC premier women now have a week off to rejuvenate before facing Parnell in their next fixture at Lloyd Elsmore Park on December 3.

Women’s domestic cricket got under way on the weekend which saw eight of Howick Pakuranga’s premier women fea ture for Northern Districts and Auckland

Hearts teams respectively.

Those selected for Northern Districts were Holly Topp, Marama Downes, and Brooke Halliday, who was named as cap tain of the side.

For the Auckland side, five were selected – Saachi Shahri, Skye Bowden, Josie Penfold, Molly Penfold and Amberly Parr. A special mention to Marama Downes, who took a wicket on debut for the Northern Districts side and skipper Brooke Halliday who picked up four wickets and scored 38 not out in their win against the Otago Sparks.

Premier Men Hedley Howarth Two-Day Competition | Round 3

Parnell playing Suburbs New Lynn – day one of two abandoned due to weather.

North Shore playing Cornwall – day one of two abandoned due to weather.

Takapuna District playing Papatoetoe – day one of two abandoned due to weather.

Eden Roskill playing Auckland University – day one of two abandoned due to weather.

Tom Hellaby Two-Day Competition | Round 3

Howick Pakuranga 149/0 (D Young 72 not out, B Walsh 70 not out) playing Kumeu after day one of two.

Grafton 187 (D Taylor 31; B Smith 4-33) playing East Coast Bays 33/0 (R Schierhout 26 not out) after day one of two.

Waitakere playing Hibiscus Coast – day one of two abandoned due to weather.

Ellerslie playing Birkenhead City – day one of two abandoned due to weather.

Barfoot and Thompson Royal Oak Premier Women Prichard Cup Limited Over Competition | Round 4 Howick Pakuranga 61 (M Kaur 13; R Nicholas 4-12, K Irwin 3-4) lost to Takapuna District 62/3 (K Irwin 24 not out; A Lambat 2-12) by Seven wickets.

Auckland University 150 (S Petherick 60 not out; C Gallagher 2-1, C Hakeagatoa 2-8) defeated Papatoetoe 106 (M Templeton 52; S Vaia 3-21) by 44 runs.

Parnell 171 (M Lamplough 30, M Curren 26) defeated Cornwall 94 (O Anderson 5-30) by 77 runs.

Howick Pakuranga Cricket Club Fixtures 26/11/22

Round 3, Day 2 Tom Hellaby Two-Day Competition

– Howick Pakuranga Premier Men VS Kumeu CC

Premier Men at Lloyd Elsmore Park – 11am

Howick Pakuranga Premier Women VS BYE

The Howick Pakuranga premier men’s side (top photo) is in a strong position after unbeaten halfcenturies from Bill Walsh and Daniel Young; above, the club’s premier reserve men’s side had a good day before rain hit, bowling out Ellerslie for 95.

Photos supplied