Times - 26 July 2023

By CHRIS HARROWELL

Police are working to identify what led a man who was serving a sentence of home detention in Flat Bush to carry out a mass shooting in downtown Auckland.

Matu Reid, 24, entered a commercial building on lower Queen Street armed with a pump-action shotgun shortly after 7am on July 20.

Police responded to reports of an active shooter at about 7.22am as Reid moved through the building discharging his firearm.

Numerous armed officers swarmed the area.

They encountered Reid in an elevator shaft in the building and exchanged

gunfire with him. He was later found dead. Police found two civilians who had been working at the building dead on the lower floors.

The two workers killed in the attack have since been named as Solomona Tootoo, 45, and Tupuga Sipiliano, 44. Both men lived in South Auckland.

“Police extend sincere condolences to the families, who are grieving the loss of their loved ones,”

Detective Superintendent Ross McKay says.

Multiple people, including two police officers, were injured during the incident and were taken to hospital for medical treatment.

The Times understands a police officer shot by

Reid sustained an injury to his jaw.

Following the incident, it emerged Reid had previously admitted charges of wilful damage, male assaults female, impeding breathing, and injuring with intent to injure.

The charges stemmed from a domestic violence incident in which he had kicked and strangled a woman. A bone in her neck was broken during the attack. The crime of strangulation carries a maximum sentence of seven years’ imprisonment.

Despite that, Reid was sentenced at the Auckland High Court in March to five months’ home detention, which he was to carry out at a property in Flat Bush.

Public housing complex damaged in huge blaze

By CHRIS HARROWELL

Apublic housing development in east Auckland, which is under construction, has been damaged in a large blaze.

It’s understood Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ) was alerted to the fire at the Kainga Ora complex in Guys Road, Huntington Park, at about 5.30am on July 24.

Multiple fire trucks, including from Howick fire station, were present when the Times visited the scene at about 10am.

Water from a fire hose atop a crane was being used to dampen the interior of the building, the steel frame of which is exposed.

Part of Guys Road was blocked to traffic as firefighters removed bent and burned steel from inside the building’s ground floor. A fire investigator was at the site also.

A member of the public at the scene said he didn’t see the blaze when he drove past the area at about 5am, but when he returned shortly after 6am the building was alight.

The man said he saw a police car nearby.

A spokesperson says police were called just after 5.30am.

“At this stage there are no reports of injuries. Enquiries into the circumstances of the fire are continuing.”

PUZZLE NO. 8120

John Tubberty, Kainga Ora regional director for central and east Auckland, says the 48-home development in Guys Road is being built in stages by developer Gemscott. It’s due for completion in mid-2024.

“The block where the fire occurred was reasonably well advanced.

“Fire and Emergency New Zealand is responsible for investigating the cause of the fire.

“Once FENZ has completed its

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SUDOKU

investigations, we will work with Gemscott to understand what impact the fire will have on timeframes for the final completion of this development.”

The Times reported in May that 640 people had signed a petition calling for a halt to a plan to build dozens of new public housing places in Huntington Park.

Officials from Kainga Ora fronted a heated public meeting held earlier this year in Botany to discuss

the agency’s development in the community.

The Times was told by people who attended the meeting that irate residents shouted at the officials, who threatened to leave if people didn’t calm down.

The Huntington Park Residents and Ratepayers Association was planning to write to Housing Minister Dr Megan Woods, the Howick ward’s two councillors, and Howick Local Board about the group’s opposition to the project.

It was considering taking legal action to try to stop the development also.

The group was disappointed in what it says was a lack of consultation with residents about the development and other potential issues relating to vehicle parking and housing density.

Tubberty previously said the Huntington Park public housing development would add 48 “much-needed” new one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes, as well as 62 off-street parking spaces and a community room for residents. He said there’s an “urgent need” for more public housing across New Zealand.

There were 291 households on the Ministry of Social Development’s housing register within the Howick Local Board area in March.

Firefighters extinguished a blaze at a large housing complex in Huntington Park on July 24.

Times photo Wayne Martin

Times making exciting changes

It’s time for a change and we know readers and advertisers will love it.

From next week, August 2, the Howick and Pakuranga Times is changing, with a new look which embraces our vibrant community.

Global and national economic pressures on newsprint costs, supply chain impacts and increased fuel pricing affecting delivery has forced us to adopt a more efficient and acceptable way to continue to bring the news to you, something we successfully managed to do during Covid-19 lockdowns via the popular times.co.nz website and

electronic newsletters.

The most dramatic change is the cessation of deliveries to letterboxes. Instead, we will be making the papers available each Wednesday at more than 60 pick-up boxes throughout the community including here at the Times office in Howick [see map and list below]. These will be topped up again each Friday. Sadly, after 51 years, we will be saying goodbye to paper-delivery people.

These moves in themselves will drastically reduce our carbon footprint while wastage through excess copies etc will also disappear, but they enable the paper to

remain in print as demanded by our readers.

We are working hard to ensure papers are available at locations close to you throughout the east Auckland region.

The other big announcement is the merger of the Howick and

Pakuranga Times and its sister publication, EastLife magazine.

It’s exciting as we will now incorporate all the excellent EastLife magazine content you’ve come to love as well as our usual news coverage focusing on our area from the Panmure

Mass shooter kills two in gun rampage

h From page 1 He was allowed as part of his sentence to work at the construction site where he carried out the shooting on July 20.

Police Commissioner Andrew Coster says Reid did not possess a firearms licence.

In a statement provided to the Times , Department of Corrections acting national commissioner Sean Mason says he expresses his deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims of the shooting.

Corrections’ chief probation

officer is carrying out a full review into Reid’s management, Mason says.

“He was sentenced in court to five months’ home detention for family violence offending on March 28. He was subject to 10 standard conditions, plus ... five special conditions.”

Those conditions were to not possess, consume, or use any alcohol or drugs not prescribed to him; to attend and complete an appropriate alcohol and drug programme; attend and complete an appropriate non-violence pro-

gramme, to not associate with or contact a specific person without the prior written approval of a probation officer; and to reside at a specific address.

“While our full review is yet to be undertaken, initial information suggests community Corrections staff managed his compliance with these conditions closely,” Mason says.

“He was in frequent contact with staff, and was required to report in to his probation officer twice every 10 days.”

Mason says Reid had com-

pleted an alcohol and other drug programme, and had been drug tested twice during his sentence, with negative results on both occasions.

He was also actively engaged in a non-violence programme.

“While initial indications are community Corrections staff were appropriately monitoring and managing his risk, the full review being carried out by our chief probation officer will identify any action we can take to help prevent a horrific tragedy like this from happening again.”

Bridge/Pakuranga through to Beachlands/Maraetai and across to Botany/Ormiston and encompassing East Tamaki/Highbrook. We hope you’ll love the new format and welcome your feedback.

168 Aveimore Dr

• Highland Park Library, 16 Highland Park Dr

• Countdown Highland Park, 507 Pakuranga Rd

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• Howick Historical Village, Bell Rd, Lloyd Elsmore Park

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• Rices Mall, Picton St

• Lily White, 113 Picton St

• Apothecary, 27 Picton St

• Poppies Books, 83 Picton St

• Howick Village Optometrist, 94 Picton St

• Ray White Howick, 12 Uxbridge Rd

• Howick Library, 25 Uxbridge Rd

• Times Media, 10 Central Tce

• Taste Explosion, Howick Village Mall, 21 Central Tce

• Fig and Plum, 109 Vincent St

• Bin Inn, 219 Moore St

• Juliet Dairy, 59 Juliet Rd

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• Seaside Meats, 3 Litten Rd

• Bellevue Bakehouse Café, 11 Litten Rd

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• Countdown Meadowlands, cnr Meadowlands Dr & Whitford

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• Sunny Dairy, 2/138 Millhouse Dr

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• Cascade Superette, 123 Cascade Rd

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• Gossamer Dairy, cnr Usser Pl and Gossamer Dr

• Pakuranga Heights Four Square, cnr Reeves Rd and Gossamer Dr

• Gossamer Mini Mart & Lotto, 147 Gossamer Dr

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• Ray White, 102 Pakuranga Rd

• Pakuranga Plaza, Countdown Foyer

• Pakuranga Plaza, rear entrance by Steakhouse

• Tiraumea Superette, 56 Tiraumea Dr

• Ti Rakau Dr Superette, cnr Edgewater Dr and Ti Rakau Dr BOTANY

• Ray White, 20 Cresent Lane, Botany Town Centre

• New World, Botany Town Centre

• PO Box Lobby, Te Koha Rd, The Hub FLAT BUSH

• Pizza Hut, 345 Chapel Rd

• Texture Cafe, 1 Arranmore Dr

• Ormiston Hospital, 125 Ormiston Rd

• Ray White Ormiston, 240 Ormiston Rd

• Ormiston Town Centre, 240 Ormiston Rd

• Optometrist, Mission Heights HIGHBROOK

• The Quest, Highbrook, Highbrook Dr WHITFORD

• Barfoot & Thompson, Whitford Village

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Matu Reid shot and killed two people at a construction site in downtown Auckland on July 20. Photo supplied

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$850,000 for busway crossings

By CHRIS HARROWELL

Auckland Transport (AT) will spend $850,000 to install “unwanted” raised pedestrian crossings as part of the Eastern Busway public transport project.

More than 2400 people previously signed Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown’s petition calling for three crossings proposed for Ti Rakau Drive to be scrapped. Brown presented his petition with a letter on the issue to AT chief executive Dean Kimpton which describes the “speed bumps” planned for Ti Rakau Drive as “unnecessary” and states they provide “no real benefit while

having a detrimental impact on non-busway traffic”.

The proposal would see two raised safety platforms installed near the future Gossamer and Pakuranga Stations, while a raised crossing would be at the Edgewater Station. AT says the crossings are intended to help people safely cross Ti Rakau Drive by calming the speed of traffic without causing significant delays. Brown wants AT to consider alternative solutions that increase safety at the crossing points without worsening congestion, such as better signage and lighting and other measures.

He asked the agency in May for information about the costs asso-

ciated with the crossings’ design and installation.

Brown received a response from AT group manager for strategic programmes Jane Small. It includes a breakdown of costs for three raised safety platforms on Ti Rakau Drive, six raised safety platforms on side streets, and one raised intersection, all of which adds up to $851,380.

“The cost for the Reeves Road and Cortina Place raised intersection is higher due to its larger size compared to other side road raised safety platforms, no realignment works being undertaken on Reeves Road ... and its location beneath the Reeves Road Flyover leading to a more com-

plex construction methodology,”

Small told Brown.

A raised safety platform will be installed at the Gossamer Drive and Ti Rakau Drive raised intersection. Another will be at the intersection of Palm Avenue and Ti Rakau Drive. There will be two raised platforms on Ti Rakau Drive providing access to the Edgewater Station.

Platforms are also planned for side roads including Edgewater Drive East, Wheatley Avenue, Edgewater Drive West, Tiraumea Drive, and Roseburn Place.

And they’ll be installed at three locations along William Roberts Road and at the raised intersection of Reeves Road and Cortina

Place. Brown says the purpose of the Eastern Busway is to get east Auckland moving, with greater access to reliable public transport options and grade separation of traffic through the Reeves Road Flyover to reduce congestion.

“Sadly, AT seems to have forgotten the reason they’re building the busway and flyover in the first place.”

He says AT needs to understand installing “speed bumps” is only slowing people down and, in most areas, is attempting to solve a problem that doesn’t exist.

“With 2500 people signing my petition a few months ago opposing these crossings it is clear where the community stands.”

MP: Restore the previous speed limits

Following Auckland Transport’s (AT) decision earlier this year to lower the speed limits on major roads in east Auckland, I have launched a petition in response to community opposition to these changes calling for the previous limits to be restored.

As arterial roads in our area, Pakuranga Road, Ti Rakau Drive, and Te Irirangi Drive carry tens of thousands of vehicles a day.

These recent speed limit reductions have only increased travel times for local commuters without providing any kind of benefit in return.

When AT first proposed these changes, they claimed the reduction in speed was being made in the name of safety, but they have been unable to identify an actual safety problem related to speed on these roads.

Statistics show that major accidents resulting in serious injury are rare on each of these roads, numbering only a few, on average, each year, no different to any other road in Auckland.

It is yet another case of AT trying to solve a problem that doesn’t exist to appear like they are doing something meaningful.

But what Kiwis want are better roads not slower roads, and where there is no evidence of a safety issue, like on these east Auckland roads, we should be looking at ways to increase traffic flow and reduce congestion, not the opposite.

AT are preparing another round of speed limit reductions in Auckland despite no statistical evidence that they are necessary or indeed that previous reductions have had any positive impact. With Auckland’s economy already thought to be losing over $1 billion in lost productivity each

year due to congestion, we literally cannot afford to slow our city down even further.

Now is the time to invest in solutions that get our city moving, including new and resilient infrastructure, improved transport network connections and greater access to reliable public transport options.

Sadly, AT seems incapable of forward-thinking and consistently falls back on simple measures like speed limit reductions that, in most cases, are nothing but busy work.

If you agree that our speed lim-

MP for Pakuranga Simeon Brown

its should be restored to their previous levels, namely 60km/h on Pakuranga Road and Ti Rakau Drive, and 80km/h on Te Irirangi Drive, please sign the petition. You can do so by visiting my website at simeonbrown.national.org. nz/60kmpetition.

SimeonBrown, MPforPakuranga

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Kainga Ora rejects claims

By CHRIS HARROWELL

Kainga Ora – formerly

Housing NZ – is swatting down claims made on social media it’s planning to build public housing at two adjacent sites in east Auckland.

A member of a local community Facebook page recently posted a screenshot of another post made on a different page that was directed at people who live near the intersection of Cook Street and Rodney Street in Howick.

The author asks if anyone on the Facebook page, which has 15,000 members, has been told or sent a letter about a “company called Kainga Ora housing developments”, which the author states is building 12 state houses on two adjacent properties in Cook Street.

The post says the development could contain properties that are two- or three-storeys high.

It also says Auckland Council approved the plan in May this year and the author has spoken to the council about the development.

The post ends with the author saying they think building work will start “around Christmas time”.

The Facebook post drew more than 70 comments, many from people unhappy such a development was apparently planned for the location. Others said it is positive news and people need somewhere to live.

Several people also commented

about the issue of housing intensification and said building multiple homes on one or two sections can strain local infrastructure, such as wastewater, and cause problems around parking spaces.

Kainga Ora lists on its website the sites it’s developing and there’s no mention of the supposed development in Cook Street.

The Times asked Kainga Ora if the agency has bought the two properties in question and if so, what its plans for the sites are.

Kainga Ora regional director central and east Auckland, John Tubberty, says: “We are not the owner of the properties, nor do we

have any current plans to acquire the properties.”

The agency also says it is not in

Dirt bike riders injured in accident

Two people riding the same dirt bike were injured when they crashed into a vehicle in east Auckland.

Counties Manukau East

Police senior sergeant Anson Lin says he anticipates charges will be laid as the investigation into the incident in Pakuranga on July 15 continues.

“The incident occurred when a dirt bike crashed into a van that was turning into Kentigern Close, from the Pakuranga Highway, at around 12.40pm.

“We are aware this dirt bike had been riding through nearby intersections prior to this incident disregarding the road rules.

talks with the owner or developer of the properties to build public housing on them.

VAPE STORE TARGETED

Police are investigating after thieves allegedly targeted an east Auckland vape store.

A police spokesperson says officers responded to a call about a burglary at a commercial premises in Springs Road, East Tamaki.

Police received a report about people entering the property at about 1.42am on July 17.

“At this stage it appears a number of items were taken,” the spokesperson says.

“Police enquiries are continuing. Anyone with information is asked to contact police via 105, referencing job number P055353242.

“Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

“At the point of the crash, the dirt bike has failed to stop for a red light. Both the rider and passenger sustained injuries, and neither were wearing a helmet.”

Lin says speculation by people around the circumstances of the incident is “not overly helpful in this case”.

“However, we can confirm the van driver stopped at the scene and waited for police to arrive.

“He spoke to our staff who attended and fortunately he did not sustain any injuries.’

The incident resulted in hundreds of comments being made on local community Facebook pages by people who debated who was to blame for the crash.

Kainga Ora says it is not planning to build public housing in this area of Cook Street, Howick, contrary to claims made on social media. Times photo Wayne Martin

Teo wins public affairs award

Wei Tian Teo, a former student of Macleans College, has won the prestigious Zonta International Young Women in Public Affairs Award.

Teo won the east Auckland award for her extensive involvement in her school and community affairs, then the Zonta District 16 (28 clubs) award and was one of 36 recipients to be award the Zonta International award with a prize of US$5000 ($8107.65).

The Zonta Club of East Auckland’s Robyn Fox said Teo’s success was due to her extensive work with national and international charity organisations as the president of her school’s UNICEF and Interact clubs, leading more than 600 students each year in numerous service projects and raising around $30,000 over her years of leadership.

As head girl, elected Board of Trustees student representative, and Student Council president, she led the modernising of school policies and practices for intersectional inclusivity.

Wong retires after almost 33 years

By BEN PLUMMER

One of Howick’s most prominent local practitioners has received a heartwarming farewell after taking an early retirement.

Dr Richard W Wong qualified as a General Practitioner (GP) from the University of Auckland in 1985 and five years later purchased the Juliet Avenue Surgery practice in Howick.

Ever since, Wong has run the practice, taking on approximately 2500 patients while simultaneously looking after four nursing homes

in the area.

“He has three to four generations of families in his books and knows everything about them when you talk to him and his patients think the world of him,” an employee at the practice says.

Wong was farewelled on June 30 with patients going back over four generations calling in to wish him all the best in his next step.

“We wish him all the best in his retirement as he is now able to take up old hobbies, especially boating and fishing,” says the practice’s employees.

ACT WILL PROTECT KIWIS FROM HARM IN THE WORKPLACE

The ACT Party has announced it will introduce tougher sentences for offenders who attack victims in their workplace if elected to Government this year.

“Workers on the frontline are facing an increasingly violent New Zealand,” party leader David Seymour says.

“It’s time to take an approach that puts victims first, so New Zealand’s shopkeepers, taxi and bus drivers, security guards, small retailers and other frontline workers can operate without fear.”

He says the party will amend the Sentencing Act 2002 so judges must take into account the fact a serious violent offence occurred against a worker during their course of work as an aggravating factor.

That means if a victim suffered a serious violent crime in their workplace or during the course of their work, a judge will be able to hand down a longer sentence.

Particular regard should

be taken if the worker and/ or their family was particularly vulnerable, for example if they were working alone, or had an adjoining home.

“The frequency and intensity of retail crime is on the rise,” Seymour says.

“We see shocking images of workers being assaulted in the media every day.

“Dairy owners and other small retailers are now putting themselves inside cages

“Teo has also demonstrated international understanding through raising money towards helping migrants and refugees assimilate in New Zealand,” said Fox.

“Beyond school, Wei Tian advocated for a $1,045,000 city council budget towards reducing emissions and campaigned for increased youth involvement in civic affairs as a United Nations Youth ambassador.”

She also founded her school’s UN chapter to enhance civics education, engagement in local politics and created spaces for students to develop debating, diplomacy and public-speaking skills. Teo has also led the coordination of the UNICEF Ball Committee; a national student-led initiative that raises money towards aid for Yemen children.

She co-founded and directed The Girl Empowerment Conference, an island-wide social case competition, aimed at empowering female students through critical-thinking as she engaged influential speakers and mentors.

For her advocacy and initiative, she was named an international finalist in the Youth-To-TheFront-Fund and received several national accolades.

Teo is studying at the University of Auckland as she undertakes a degree in biomedical science with a view to becoming a physician.

“Her time at university has enabled her to become increasingly aware of the inequities in the health system. This has now inspired her to think about the politics of medicine as she is aware that injustice seems to be to do with legislation,” said Fox.

“This will inform the choices she makes as she goes forward in her career. She acknowledged that her mother, sister, teachers and senior students also helped her realise that anything is possible. Wei Tian is an outstanding young woman and a very deserved winner.”

The Young Women in Public Affairs application packs will be in all secondary schools in the third term. h For further information contact eastauckland@zonta.org.nz.

One term and done for new politician

By CHRIS HARROWELL

Damien Smith is calling time on his political career after just one term in Parliament.

The former business banker stood in the Botany electorate as the ACT Party’s 10th-ranked candidate at the 2020 general election.

ACT received 7.6 per cent of the party vote nationwide and Smith was elected as one of its nine new List MPs.

Botany-based ACT Party

List MP Damien Smith is not seeking re-election at this year’s general election.

Times file photo

so criminals can’t get behind the counter.

“There is no place for this kind of senseless violence in New Zealand. The law needs to reflect this.”

Seymour says police data shows there were 18,769 aggravated robbery victimisations from 2017 to April 2023, but only 8,162 proceedings.

“Every instance of aggravated robbery in a workplace represents an instance where the worker faces a risk of real harm.

“Too often, workers on the frontline of an aggravated robbery suffer completely unprovoked assaults, making the prospect of an attack even more distressing.

“It’s time we sent a message to New Zealand that crime will be punished, that criminals can’t get away with committing senseless violent acts on people trying to earn a living, and that victims are at the heart of the justice system.”

He’s its spokesperson for arts, culture and heritage; commerce and consumer affairs; land information; racing; revenue; sport and recreation; and state-owned enterprises.

Smith is also associate spokesperson for finance and is on Parliament’s finance and expenditure committee.

Prior to entering politics he had a successful career in banking and worked as a consultant and independent company director.

He’s contemplating what challenge he wants to take on once he leaves Parliament and may return to banking.

Smith says he believes this year’s general election, scheduled for October 14, will see a change of Government.

Labour isn’t telling the public that “things are still going to be tough” economically in the near future, he says.

“This time next year it’s not going to be any easier.

“I’ve enjoyed being on the finance and expenditure committee and understanding [Finance Minister] Grant Robertson, [Revenue Minister] David Parker and [Reserve Bank governor] Adrian Orr.

“It’s given me a great training and platform to see what needs to be changed in the country.

“That [the committee] is where the business of the country gets done ... so it’s been an honour to be on there.”

Smith says one highlight during his

brief stint in Parliament was “telling Labour they’re wrong with their tax policies and wrong with their Deposit Takers Bill”.

“I’ve voted against everything they’ve proposed over the past three years.

“That’s what you do when you’re in Opposition. I firmly believe they’ve got things wrong and people are paying a price for it out there. It didn’t have to be this way.

“In my maiden speech I pointed out that a selfengineered or –induced recession was likely to happen if the Government kept spending [so much] and it’s come to pass.”

ACT leader David Seymour says Smith has been a valued member of the party since 2020 and he thanks him for his “service and hard work”.

“He came to politics from a successful banking career in multiple countries and has used that expertise in Parliament, particularly with his Member’s Bill to liberalise our overseas investment laws and to bring about common-sense changes to the CCCFA [Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act].

“His distinctly Irish cheer and optimism will be missed, and the ACT caucus wishes him all the best for the future.”

ACT president Henry Lynch says Smith has worked hard over the past three years, particularly in east Auckland.

“We’re proud of the way the 2020 intake of MPs has performed over the past three years, and while it’s a shame to see Damien move on, we’re optimistic about the new talent the party has attracted for 2023.”

Smith says he has “profound gratitude” to the people who provided him with support, mentorship, and guidance during his tenure in Parliament.

Wei Tian Teo is studying at the University of Auckland as she undertakes a degree in biomedical science.

Photo supplied

Dr Richard Wong has run the Juliet Avenue Surgery practice for 32 years. Photo supplied

ACT Party leader David Seymour wants to see tougher sentences for criminals who attack a person in their place of work. Times file photo

Half Moon Bay is just a few minutes down the road.

If you’ve always had boats in your life, Half Moon Bay could be close to heaven! It has that particular blend of chaos and serenity - where boats are kept and cared for, or you can simply enjoy a coffee and watch the world go by. The pace of life in Pakuranga is slower than the city, and locals enjoy that there is practically everything you need close by. If there is a specific reason to head into town, it’s easy to get in, get the business done and head home in time for afternoon tea!

Many retirees choose to stay in Pakuranga for that very reason, deciding to move from the family home with all the maintenance and costs that came with it. It is appealing to remain in a familiar location, especially if they have been brought up in the area and are Pakuranga locals. There are many home options available close to Half Moon Bay, so it is important to find the right next move - one that offers more time to enjoy the boat, relax with friends and have the grandkids over. Of course it’s not always easy, and it sometimes takes time to get your ducks in a row to get the family home sold. There have been complications around Covid recently and many are unaware of their home’s current value due to the rise in interest rates. Thankfully this situation now looks to be stabilising. A smaller and more economical home attracts many as they seek to retain independence but also find a little more companionship. We all want to escape mowing lawns and cutting hedges, and apartment-style living can have a strong

appeal. Another concern may be support and care if it’s ever needed in the future.

The brand new apartments in Pakuranga Park offer an interesting option that should be considered in any search. The apartments are very generously sized and the views out to the north flood the interiors with light and warmth. Just a few minutes from Half Moon Bay and Howick Village, you can be connected to both external and internal communities without being reliant on either of them.

Fully renovated villas ideal for independent living are also available. The prices are very competitive for Pakuranga, which means you can still handle that rainy day if it ever comes. So before you decide on your next move, we suggest you add Pakuranga Park to your search list and come and check out the options available for yourself.

realliving.co.nz/village/pakuranga-park

Sun, views and spacious luxury

Before you decide on your next move, we suggest you add Pakuranga Park to your search list. Call 09 576 5990 or 027 314 5767 to arrange a viewing. realliving.co.nz/village/pakuranga-park

Fidget board will challenge seniors living with dementia

Avision and a large dose of kindness helped to create a dynamic fidget board that’s challenging and entertaining for older east Auckland residents who are living with dementia.

The interactive fidget, or sensory, board was on the to-do list at The Cottage by Ambridge Rose in Pakuranga for several years.

The project took off when a resident’s son-in-law became involved.

The care facility’s manager, Jackie Wood-Ciobanu, talked with Roger Dunn about her ideas for a board, which inspired him, and he offered to build it for her.

“We planned to build a board when my father-in-law, Michael, lived at home,” Dunn says.

“We’d bought and collected a lot of things but didn’t get round to it.”

To make the board for Ambridge Rose residents, Dunn added items from Michael’s garage, and various objects Wood-Ciobanu had collected. Armed with pictures provided by Wood-Ciobanu, Dunn

and his wife Angela researched how to repurpose the materials and played around with the design until they achieved an ideal layout. When it was nearly ready for installation, Wood-Ciobanu vis-

ited the Dunns’ home and went through all the items to check they were suitable for people with dementia.

Dunn was worried some of them were too busy and others weren’t busy enough. However, WoodCiobanu was happy and the fidget board is now installed in a sunny courtyard at the facility where residents, relatives and visitors can explore it in any weather.

A popular item is the musical base of a broken snow globe Angela Dunn bought in Europe soon after the couple was married.

“A lot of the residents play with the telephone, and we probably need to get more,” Roger Dunn says.

He ensured everything had round edges and the design is both sensory and decorative because

Howick concerts offer double delights

Audiences at Thursdays @ Seven concerts at All Saints Church in Howick will enjoy a double dose of fine classical music next week, as concerts are offered two nights running, at the usual start time of 7pm.

Thursday, August 3 will feature wellknown Auckland artists in a programme of glorious music by Schubert. Duo pianists Kay Shacklock and Peter Watts will be joined by soprano Katharine Watts to present famous piano duets and muchloved songs. The three artists have performed numerous concerts in Auckland, creating programmes of interest and variety. Friday, August 4, will showcase one of New Zealand’s brilliant young musicians, pianist Tony Yan Tong Chen, a former student of Macleans College in Bucklands Beach, as he returns briefly from undergraduate studies at the Eastman School of Music in the United States. He is about to take up further study at the Cleveland School, Ohio. He has performed throughout New Zealand

and also internationally, winning awards in major international piano competitions and gaining valuable pro-

WORKPLACE BULLYING

Workplace bullying is repeated and unreasonable behaviour directed towards a worker or a group of workers that can lead to physical or psychological harm.

WHEN BULLYING OCCURS, EMPLOYERS NEED TO:

 Take all allegations seriously and act promptly.

 Set timelines and deal with reports/ complaints as soon as possible after they are received.

 Clearly communicate the process. This means telling the people involved what they are going to do, keeping them updated and informed of any delays to timelines.

 Protect the people involved from victimisation and let them know what support is available to them. Tell the people involved that they can have a support person present at interviews or meetings.

 Maintain privacy (confidentiality) for all parties involved by ensuring details of the matter are only known to those directly concerned (except their representative or support person).

 Treat the people involved fairly. This includes getting someone unbiased and trained to look into the allegation/s and then making decisions on how to deal with the allegation/s based on the facts.

THE FOLLOWING LAWS PROTECT

PEOPLE FROM BULLYING IN THE WORKPLACE.

 Employment Relations Act 2000

 Health and Safety at Work Act 2015

 The Harmful Digital Communications Act 2015 When complaints of bullying cannot or are not dealt with internally, government agencies can help. You can go to www.worksafe.govt.nz for information

fessional experience. His Howick programme includes favourites by Chopin and Tchaikovsky.

Concerts last one hour, 7pm-8pm, and admission is by donation at the door.

 If you require further information contact Katharine and Peter Watts, 534 2445/027 5227124 or email watts@wattsandwatts.co.nz.

problem-solving requires creativity and motivation, no matter what age or ability the problem-solver happens to be.

Wood-Ciobanu loves the look on residents’ faces when they discover the board, and they immediately want to touch items that are familiar to them.

There are tools, keys and locks, power points and plugs, little doors, magnetic speakers, Velcro straps, and more.

“It’s a visual symphony and seeing someone enjoying exploring something in that very moment is wonderful,” Wood-Ciobanu says.

The Cottage’s staff, residents and families are grateful for the kindness and ingenuity of the Dunns, who have enhanced the well-being of the growing number of people living with dementia.

What’s on

FIRE SAFETY TALK

Welcome along to Howick Library to hear our guest speaker from Fire and Emergency New Zealand talk about fire safety on Friday, August 4 at 10.30am. All welcome and refreshments are available.

ZONTA BIRTHDAY

Zonta Club of East Auckland invites you to its meeting on August 1 where members and guests will celebrate the club’s 36th birthday and reflect on the club’s amazing achievements in serving women and girls internationally, nationally and locally. We have a lot to be proud of in our club and would love to share this event with you. Join us at the Howick Club, Botany Road at 6pm. For further information email eastauckland@zonta. org.nz.

U3A SPEAKER

Are you one of those good sorts who pick up the plastic and glass and cans as you walk on the beach or on your way to the shops or outside the shops? On Monday, August 14 at 9.30am, Hayden Smith of Sea Cleaners will talk about his discovery, whilst kayaking, of a huge convergence of rubbish in the sea just outside the RNZYS and under the Auckland Harbour Bridge. To date he has collected 15m litres of waste from our water. All welcome. Howick Bowling Club, Selwyn Rd. Phone Jan 027 220 3777.

SENIORNET MEETING

on dealing with workplace bullying and www.employment.govt.nz has information for employers and employees about each parties’ rights and obligations to prevent and deal with workplace bullying.

Further information is available on our website, www.cab.org.nz or you can call, email or visit a CAB office for free, confidential help about an issue in the workplace.

 This Solutions Column has been compiled by Vani and is a regular Times editorial from the Citizens Advice Bureau Pakuranga/Eastern. Email enquiries.pakuranga@cab.org. nz Phone 09 576 8331 or visit us at the Library Building, Pakuranga. You can also email our Botany offices botany@ cab.org.nz or Phone 09 271 5382 or visit us as at Botany CAB, rear Food Court entrance, Botany Town Centre.

Visitors are welcome to hear Associate Professor Stephen Hoadley present at SeniorNet’s August 4 meeting at St Andrew’s Church Centre, Howick, starting at 10am. Professor Hoadleys topic is “International influences on Senior Citizens”. This will be proceeded by member Kate Senner’s demonstration of more smartphone apps.

U3A PAKURANGA

Learn Laugh Live. The next meeting of U3A Pakuranga is on Monday, August 7, at St Andrews Church Centre, Vincent Street, Howick at 1.45 pm. Visitors welcome and entry is free. For further information, ring Robert 021 1490069.

DINNER CLUB

The Howick Women’s Dinner Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month for dinner and an interesting talk on a wide range of subjects. If you are keen to hear more, email our committee on hwdc.committee@gmail.com.

In front of the new fidget board at The Cottage by Ambridge Rose are, from left, its creator Roger Dunn, his father-in-law Michael, and facility manager Jackie Wood-Ciobanu. Photo supplied

Piano duettists Kay Shacklock and Peter Watts, and Tony Yan Tong Chen. Photos supplied

Students to represent NZ at cycling world championships

By BEN PLUMMER

In a tremendous feat, two east Auckland students have been selected to represent Cycling New Zealand at the UCI World Championships in Glasgow.

Ruby Spring (Y13) of Saint Kentigern College and Finn Wilson (Y13) of Macleans College are part of the 29-strong New Zealand squad largely comprising World Tour riders and European-based professionals.

This will be Spring’s first time representing New Zealand in what she says has been a lifelong dream.

“I have always looked up to the older cyclists and wanted to be like them. Racing at this high of an international level is something I never thought I would achieve, so to be selected is so exciting for me,” Spring says.

She will be one of four Kiwi women to compete in the junior women’s road race on August 5.

Spring began cycling at the age of 11 and was instantly attracted to the competitive and social aspects of it.

“The competitive aspect was something I loved and drew me to the sport as I love a challenge. The

social aspect was also a driver for me to do the sport as it was such a cool way to meet new people and I’ve made lifelong friends.”

Spring’s success in cycling lead to her being named the 2023 Saint Kentigern sports prefect as well as cycling captain.

St Kents’ premier team sport manager Lynne Scutt says Ruby

is a very focused and determined sportsperson and has represented the college since year seven in a number of sports and events.

“I have known Ruby since she started in year 7 and she has grown into a top student and athlete. She has set high standards and has worked very hard to achieve her goals and I know representing

Pakuranga United RC to host Auckland NPC blockbuster battle

By BEN PLUMMER

One of the biggest rivalries in NPC Rugby will be making its way to east Auckland as Pakuranga United Rugby Club (PURC) are set to host the ‘Battle of the Bombays’ between Auckland and Waikato in September.

Coined the ‘Backyard Blitz’, the Round 7 match is set to be the first in what will become a new look rugby and entertainment experience as Auckland Rugby plans to revolutionise its Bunnings Warehouse NPC home games.

The Backyard Blitz event is aimed at amplifying the fan experience, reaching new audiences and taking Bunnings Warehouse NPC matches out to Aucklanders.

“This is about taking NPC rugby away from the typical stadium environment and reaching Aucklanders throughout the region with a fresh and exciting fan experience,” says Auckland Rugby CEO Jarrod Bear.

“It’s a way for us to reach new audiences and amplify the typical match day programme with a festivalstyle atmosphere for fans of all ages to enjoy and where rugby is just one part of the overall experience. We

thank Pakuranga United Rugby Club for their support of Backyard Blitz and for being such exceptional hosts.”

The club will be transformed with temporary seating, a beer garden, kid’s zone, live music and boot party as part of the festivities on Saturday, September 16.

Pakuranga United Rugby Club’s general manager Mike Bongiovanni says it is a major coup for the club to host such a big match.

“We are incredibly excited for not only our rugby community but the wider east Auckland community to have some of the best players in the country playing right here in our own backyard.

“We have been privileged to host big events in the

past with the World Masters Games and the World School Sevens, this will be another fantastic occasion and one we are sure will be passionately supported,” says Bongiovanni.

Pakuranga members will be invited to an exclusive meet and greet with the team the week of the match, while several other exciting initiatives are in the pipeline.

Tickets are limited and will go on sale on Wednesday, July 26, starting from $20 for adults, $10 for secondary school students and $5 for kids. Boot Party tickets are $40 but are strictly limited, so fans are encouraged to get in quick to avoid disappointment.

h Visit the link https:// aucklandrugby.flicket. co.nz/ to purchase tickets.

New Zealand was something she really wanted to do,” Scutt says.

Spring says she owes her success to her coaches and family for providing unwavering support throughout her career.

It will also be Wilson’s first-time representing New Zealand as he gears up for the junior men’s road race on August 5 alongside only two other Kiwis.

“To represent my country and wear the fern has been a childhood dream and has been a big motivator in the past few years,” he says.

Wilson began cycling in BMX when he was much younger at the local Mountain Raiders BMX Club before being introduced to mountain biking while at Bucklands Beach Intermediate.

“When I got to Macleans College I decided I wanted to take mountain biking (MTB) more seriously so I got a road bike for training. Then I did a road race and did quite well and really enjoyed it. I have been racing both MTB and road cycling ever since. This year I have started to turn my focus solely on road cycling,” he says.

Wilson says, above anything, he is most excited about wearing the

fern at the pinnacle event for junior cyclists.

The 2023 World Cycling Championships is the first time that all the different cycling disciplines (road, track, BMX, MTB) have been hosted at the same time and location.

“It will be special to be part of this two-week event and part of the biggest ever New Zealand cycling team at a world championship,” he says.

As for their careers after school, both Spring and Wilson are looking to continue cycling and push for higher honours.

“The goal of my trip to Europe this year was to gain international race experience and prove myself on the world stage while also, hopefully, gaining selection for world champs and to be offered a professional development team contract for 2024 (his first year in U23s).

“My long-term goal is making to the world tour, the highest level of professional cycling,” says Wilson. Spring says she hopes to head back to Europe in 2024 and complete more international experiences and develop as a rider.

TWO NATIONAL TITLES FOR PAKURANGA FIGHTERS

Two boxers fighting out of Revills Boxing Gym in Pakuranga have secured national titles at the recent New Zealand Boxing Championships in Tauranga.

Three boxers from the gym represented Auckland. Head coach for Auckland this year was Revill’s assistant coach Jonathan Nevin.

This year’s nationals had a record number of entries with a total of 197 boxers chasing national championship glory.

Wendell Stanley [71kg elite male] and Auckland team captain was accompanied by Tim Max [75kg elite male] and Kheva Potatau [67kg elite male].

Tim Max, who has been with the gym for about three months and has shown huge improvements and potential since coming on board, secured his spot in the team after winning the Auckland champs in the 75kg division and impressing the Auckland selectors. This was Max’s first nationals and he lost his bout against the eventual winner in a stacked division. “There are lots of learnings for the middleweight who has the desire to work hard and improve for next year’s event,” Nevin said.

Kheva Potatau, who was runner up last year at 63.5kg, stepped up a weight division to 67kg, having two hard bouts to win the gold and the Morgan Cup in the Welterweight division. wPotatau’s opponent in the finals represented New Zealand last year at the Youth Worlds and is a very talented boxer from Christchurch.

“Kheva’s performance was high class and he used technical skills and speed to control the bout, in what many have commented on as his best ever performance,” said Nevin.

“Having won previous title in the junior and youth divisions, this was a fantastic achievement for the 21-year-old.”

The one to watch was Wendell Stanley going for his third back-to-back title in the light middleweight division and with Olympic selectors watching, the pressure

was on to perform.

Having won his semifinal bout, Stanley faced a very skilful boxer in Xavier Mata’afa-Ikinofo, who represented Niue at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. “This was a close even technical bout leading into the third and final round in which Wendell stepped it up to seal the deal,” said Nevin.

“This round had the crowd on their feet with an all-action, fast-paced round and Wendell winning the bout 4-1. (five judges officiated).

“Due to the action and skill shown in the final bout, Wendell was awarded the Jameson Belt which is New Zealand boxing’s most prestigious award and given to the most technical elite male boxer at the end of the tournament.

“The list of previous winners of this belt is a who’s who of New Zealand boxing legends and is a great honour to receive this award.”

The

Saint Kentigern College sports prefect and cycling captain Ruby Spring is one of four Kiwis to compete in the junior women’s road race; Finn Wilson, right, winning the prestigious National French race – Sebaco Trophee, Brittany, France, in June 2023. Photos supplied

icing on the cake for Revills Boxing Gym was head coach Lance Revill being awarded the Joe Thwaites Memorial Challenge Shield as trainer of the Jameson Belt winner Stanley.

Revills Boxing Gym fighters Wendell Stanley, left, and Kheva Potatau came away with national titles.

Photo supplied

Mike Bongiovanni.

Photo Wayne Martin

PAKURANGA COLLEGE

Enrolment Procedures for 2024

We have moved to online enrolments and encourage you to visit our website: www.pakuranga.school.nz/enrolments to complete the procedure. Please contact our Reception on 09 534 7159 or via email: info@pakuranga.school.nz if you need to pick up a hard copy enrolment pack.

In-Zone enrolments close on Wednesday 23 August 2023

Online enrolments must be submitted by the end of the day on Wednesday 23 August 2023. Hard copies must arrive at Reception by 4pm on Wednesday 23 August 2023.

Out-of-Zone enrolments close on Wednesday 30 August 2023. Online enrolments must be submitted by the end of the day on Wednesday 30 August 2023. Hard copies must arrive at Reception by 4:00pm on Wednesday 30 August 2023.

If required, a ballot will take place on Wednesday 6 September 2023.

There will be NO places offered for Out-of-Zone Year 10-13 enrolments for 2024.

Enrolment Scheme – Home Zone

Commencing at the coast, travel east along the centre of A Tai Road and along the centre of Pigeon Mountain Road (Compass Point Way included) as far as Himalaya Drive (included). Head east along the northern boundary of Pigeon Mountain to Gills Road. Continue along Gills Road before heading south east along Bleakhouse Road (excluded). Turn south along Ridge Road (53, 60 and above included) and continue south along Botany Road. Head west along the centre of Ti Rakau Drive until meeting the Ti Rakau Culvert, head north west along the creek to join Pakuranga Road, head south west along Pakuranga Road until Johns Lane (267 included), then along the centre of Pakuranga Road until St Kentigern College. Head west along the northern boundary of St Kentigern College before heading north along the coast to the starting point.

Students living outside the Defined Home Zone

If places are available the following students may be accepted, with places offered in the following order of priority:

First Priority Will be given to students who have been accepted for enrolment in the Pegasus Unit, a special programme run by the school and approved by the Secretary for Education.

Second Priority Will be given to siblings of current students.

Third Priority Will be given to siblings of former students.

Fourth Priority Will be given to any applicant who is a child of a former student of the school.

Fifth Priority Will be given to any applicant who is a child of an employee or board member of the Pakuranga College Board of Trustees.

Sixth Priority Will be given to all other applicants. If there are more applicants in the second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth priority groups than there are places available, selection within the priority group will be by a ballot. .

Saturday 29 July 2023

9:00am to 12 Noon

Parents of prospective students and their families, and members of the public, are warmly invited to visit our school on Open Morning to experience our students in action, view displays and meet staff and students.

Michael Williams, Principal

HOWICK INTERMEDIATE

A school of excellence where every person is able to succeed in a safe, happy and stimulating environment

2024 Enrolment Information

Year 6 Student & Parent Information Evening

Tuesday 2nd August, 2022

Our Principal, Ian Morrison, warmly invites Year 6 students families to MHJC’s 2023 Enrolment Information Evening.

In Zone enrolments started from 12 June 2023

The evening will start at 6:00pm in the MHJC Theatre. be made to supervise younger siblings in the library, if they to join the school tour section of the evening.

Applications can be found on our school website: www.mhjc.school.nz > enrolments.

ACCELERATED STUDENTS

Respect, Attitude, Integrity, Service, Excellence

The Enrolment Information Evening will present families wonderful opportunity to meet teachers, observe areas of action and ask questions about our online enrolment.

Applications close 30 August.

Out of Zone Students for 2024

There are a limited number of spaces available for out of zone students in 2024. Applications must be made by 4:00pm on 30 August.

Confirmation by ballot is scheduled for 6 September. Results 8 September.

‘Experience a Day in the

* Online enrolment must be completed by Friday 5th www.mhjc.school.nz > enrolments > Online Enrolment Form for In MP287550

INFORMATION EVENING on Wednesday 2 August at 6pm in the MHJC Theatre.

Growing Greatness

ENROLMENTS 2024

Our online enrolments for Year 7, 2024 are now open. Please enrol on the school’s website: www.bbi.school.nz then headings of : Our Students; Enrolments and Uniform Please check the requirements, and attach a PDF attachment of all requirements (proof of address etc) plus the latest school report.

The closing date for both in zone and out of zone enrolments will be 3.00pm on Wednesday 30 August 2023.

OPEN MORNING

Saturday 29 July 2023

9:00am – 12 Noon

Parents of prospective students and their families, and members of the public, are warmly invited to visit our school on OPEN MORNING to experience our students in action, view displays and meet staff.

Please contact our Reception on 09 534 7159 or via email: info@pakuranga.school.nz for more information.

Michael Williams

Principal

PART TIME WORK

General

SITUATIONS VACANT

SALES MANAGER WANTED

Part-Time - 9am-2pm (school hours)

3 days per week

We are looking for a dynamic sales manager to help grow our boutique health-food and skincare business in East Tamaki.

You will need experience with MYOB, MS Office, social media and the food & health industry.

The right applicant will have great communication, initiative and interpersonal skills to represent our company/brand.

Please email your CV to: info@waihekeherbs.co.nz

| waihekeherbs.co.nz

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR

• Part-time, 20 hours, Monday to Friday

• General Administration support

• Successful family owned, NZ business

• Based in East Tamaki

Production Techniques Limited (PTL) produces innovative machinery solutions for the food industry here in NZ and offshore.

We are seeking an administrator with demonstrated skills and experience in office and production administration, data entry, record keeping and organising meetings and social events.

To deliver the support required you will need to bring to this role:

• A high degree of attention to detail and accuracy

• Accurate data entry skills

• Competency in Microsoft Office – Word, Outlook, Excel

• Be an ‘organiser extraordinaire’

• The ability to multi-task and prioritise

• Initiative

• Can do attitude – prepared to do what is needed

• A willingness to learn and contribute.

This role involves:

• Administration support across the business

• Organising meetings, note taking and co-ordinating action plans

• Catering and support organising in-house social events

• Organising and maintaining office consumables

• Documentation preparation and filing maintenance

• Arranging training and maintaining records

• Arranging travel

• Data entry

• Plus, more!

This is an opportunity to join a successful, reputable organisation which prides itself on working and collaborating together to deliver the best machinery solutions for our customers. If you have a friendly and professional approach, enjoy being part of a busy team making a difference we would like to hear from you. Please apply now by forwarding your CV and cover letter to sarah@peopledevel.co.nz.

Note: In order to apply for this role you must have the legal right to work in NZ.

MP285865

Howick RSA Poppy Fund Trust & Howick RSA Community Welfare Trust

RSA WELFARE SUPPORT ADVISOR

The job will involve, but not be restricted to:

• Maintaining and continuing to update a data base of eligible recipients of welfare support

• Supporting clients with transport to appointments such as medical/hospital appointments

• Help clients with applications for assistance such as trust welfare grants, funeral grants from the trust.

• Assistance and information around availability of other agencies for support such as VA, MSD

Hours will be allocated at maximum of 60 hours per month, allowing flexibility when some weeks are busier than others.

If you think you are the right person for this role please send your CV to:

welfare@howickrsa.co.nz

Closing date 4th August 2023

Service Coordinator

Primary Options for Acute Care (POAC)

• Training and ongoing support within a fun and dedicated team

• Flexibility for part-time hours (up to 32 hours per week

Mon-Fri)

• Great Botany location

POAC is a regional Auckland service supporting primary and secondary health care providers to access a range of community based health services for their patients.

The aim of the POAC service is to facilitate timely, flexible and coordinated services, meeting the healthcare needs of individual patients in a community setting.

We are a small team, looking for a part-time service coordinator superstar.

The role will involve:

• Utilising your exceptional people skills and experience to provide service and support to a range of healthcare providers. Assist with the navigation of the services and funding streams available to provide optimal service delivery, focusing on timeliness and best care options for patients

• Coordinating high volume referrals and scheduling of both urgent and routine patient appointments

Skills and experience you will bring to this role:

• Strong problem-solving skills and demonstrated ability to use initiative

• A high level of personal integrity

• Ability to work well in a fast-paced pressure environment

• Strong customer service ethic

• Excellent time management and organizational skills

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, particularly the ability to communicate clearly, concisely and in plain language

• Strong data entry skills with a high level of accuracy

• Experience working in a customer service based role (experience within the healthcare sector may be beneficial but not essential).

• Willingness to learn and ability to adapt positively to changes If this sounds like you we’d love to hear from you.

To apply please forward a current CV and covering letter to aimeew@easthealth.co.nz

A copy of the position description is available from aimeew@easthealth.co.nz

Applications close Friday 4 August 2023

Please note, only applicants with the right to permanently live and work in NZ will be considered for this role.

SITUATIONS VACANT

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN CARS?

Cascade for Mazdaparts is an industry leading Car Parts Company in Pakuranga. We are looking for full time, permanent employees to join our friendly team. Multiple positions available working in the Warehouse. Excellent pay and career opportunities for reliable, hard working car enthusiasts.

Please email CV to tom@cascadeformazda.co.nz or call 022 623 6778 DE287442

TUITION

DDF

Terry’s

PAINTERS

PAINTING & DECORATING

A1 CHINESE

3388

PAINTER, experienced in int/ext, roof & plastering, free quotes. Phone Mark 022 666 6380

PAINTER/HANDYMAN, 40+yrs exp. Phone Muzza Ph 027 6770294

PAINTER Int/Ext painting, high qual workmanship, plastering. Howick based. Ph Kenny 021 897 445

WALLPAPERING specialist. Strip, hang. Ph Andrew 027 4600048 or 5244 111

Wayne’sPaintingLtd Wayne’sPaintingLtd

Free quotes Interior & exterior Quality work at affordable

ADVERTISING TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1. In accepting an advertisement for publication and in publishing it we are doing so in consideration of and relying on the advertisers express warranty, the truth of which is essential.

a. That the advertisement complies in all ways with the Advertising Codes of Practice issued by the Advertising Standards Authority inc (ASA) and with every other code or industry standard relating to advertising in New Zealand b. The published advertisement will not give rise to any liability on our part or in a claim being made against us.

c. That the advertisement is misleading or deceptive or likely to mislead or deceive or breaches the Fair Trading Act 1986 that is defamatory or indecent or which otherwise offends against generally accepted community standards that infringes a copyright or trademark or otherwise infringes any intellectual or industrial property rights that breaches any provision of any statute, regulation, by law or other rule or law

2. Where the advertiser utilises any aspect of our creative/design services in the production of an advertisement (including photographic work) the advertiser acknowledges that we own the copyright in such work and that such work is not work for which a commissioning payment has been made or agreed.

3. The advertiser agrees to indemnify us against all losses or costs arising directly or indirectly from any breach of those warranties by the advertiser and from any costs incurred in our making corrections or amendments in accordance with the terms that follow.

4. We may refuse to publish, or withdraw an advertisement from publications without having to give a reason.

5. We may publish the advertisement on the next available day if there is an error or delay in publication of the advertising as booked.

6. We may correct or amend advertising to conform to style or for other genuine reason as long as we do so using reasonable care.

7. The guarantees contained in the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 are excluded where the advertiser acquires, or holds himself out as acquiring, goods or services from us for the purpose of a business.

8. The advertiser must tell us as soon as possible if there is an error or omission in any advertisement the advertiser has placed. We will not be liable for any indirect or consequential loss from an error (which includes ommission, negligence, system or press failure, mistake, misclassification, early, late or non insertion of advertisement or loss or delay in the delivery of replies) and if we are found to have any direct liability for any circumstance that liability is limited to the cost of the space of the advertisement.

9. To cancel an advertisement a cancellation number must be obtained from us.

Times Newspaper Limited, 10 Central Terrace, Howick (behind Rice’s Mall) www.times.co.nz

SOLUTIONS

13, Yawl. 15, Ever. 17, Repeat. 18, Brutal. 20, Extra. 21, Lower. 23, Rota. CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8120 Across - 1, Left. 7, Down-right. 8, Stir. 9, M-I-c-e. 10, D-OO-r. 11, S-age. 14, Mighty fine. 16, Well-heeled. 19, O-at-S. 22, Wolf (rev.). 24, Peal (peel). 25, Star. 26, Re-dressed 27, Chow. Down - 1, Lists 2, Fling. 3, Do-t-ing. 4, In-tent. 5, Wind. 6, Thrown out. 12, Ant-elope-s. 13, Emil (rev.). 15, F-I-do. 17, Ex-pose. 18, Leaves. 20, A-itch. 21, Screw. 23, Fare (fair).

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Howick Local Board meeting

Meeting will be held at 12pm on Thursday 17 August.

The venue is the Howick Local Board meeting room, Pakuranga Library Complex, 7 Aylesbury St, Pakuranga.

Find out more: phone 09 301 0101 or visit aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Pair selected for handball champs

By BEN PLUMMER

In a remarkable feat, two talented east Auckland athletes have been selected in the U19 New Zealand side for the Handball World Championships in Croatia in August.

The selections of John Whittaker (Flat Bush) and Nicholas Choi (Bucklands Beach) shines a light on the growing presence of handball in New Zealand.

Handball is an Olympic sport played between two teams who try to throw or hit an inflated ball into a goal at either end of a rectangular playing area while preventing their opponents from doing so.

For Choi, who moved to New Zealand from Hong Kong in 2019, the opportunity to represent his adopted nation on the global stage is an immense honour.

“There is no greater honour than being able to represent the country at the World Championship. Being in New Zealand is a great opportunity to do this, it is a once in a lifetime achievement,” he says.

Handball, a sport typically dominated by European nations, presents a unique challenge that Choi is eager to take on.

Preparations for the tournament have been intense for both Choi and Whittaker, pushing their physical and mental limits.

Choi dedicates between 6 to 8 hours per week to pure handball training, in addition to rigorous physical fitness routines. He

believes that consistent training, whether it is handball-specific or general fitness exercises, is crucial in preparing his body for the intensity of consecutive game days.

Whittaker, dubbed a young handball sensation, shares Choi’s enthusiasm for the upcoming championship.

“Being able to play and represent New Zealand sporting wise was a childhood dream and I am stoked that I’m doing it for a sport that I

can see myself doing long-term and helping to build a bigger and better future for Handball in New Zealand,” he says.

The training regimen for Whittaker has pushed his physical and mental limits. The level of intensity required for the tournament has surpassed anything he has experienced before.

In addition to organized sessions with coaches and individual training, Whittaker has also

juggled his commitment to basketball and school. Despite the challenges, he is determined to meet the demands head-on and push himself to new heights.

Reflecting on their handball journeys, Choi discovered his passion for the sport in Hong Kong, where his exceptional talents were recognized by the team captain. Playing a bit of the Asian style of handball has contributed to the diversity and versatility of his gameplay.

Whittaker, on the other hand, was introduced to handball in 2020 during his school’s physical education programme.

“I am a give it a go type of person so I am willing to try any new sports and become good at them, but Handball was different as it piqued my interest a lot more than what other sports would,” he says.

Whittaker says he started playing Handball for the experience and has kept playing for the love of the sport.

“My message to the community is simple. Try new things out, you’ll surprise yourself,” he says.

Choi and Whittaker’s participation in the U19 Handball World Championships represents a significant milestone not only for their personal achievements but also for the growth and recognition of handball in New Zealand.

With their dedication, skill, and unwavering determination, the two are ready to make waves on the international stage, leav-

ing their mark on the world of handball.

Both young men say they have had a countless amount of support throughout their short, yet successful Handball careers, but none more influential than Head of Delegation for the U19 New Zealand Youth Handball team, Thomas Schmider.

Schmider says Whittaker is a young Handball sensation with unmatched agility and precision.

“His extraordinary talent and skill have propelled him to new heights in the world of handball. With each game, Whittaker continues to dazzle, breaking longstanding records and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the sport,” Schmider says.

As for Choi, Schmider says he is quickly emerging as a rising star in the world of handball, combining speed and strategic brilliance to dominate the court.

“Choi’s deep understanding of the game and tactical awareness give him a strategic edge. As he continues to excel and leave his mark on the handball scene, his ascent to stardom seems inevitable,” Schmider says.

The 10th IHF Men’s Youth (U19) World Championship will be held in Croatia from August 2 to 13, with New Zealand being the only Oceania nation to compete.

If you wish to sponsor either player and help fund their travel to Croatia, visit the link https://nzyouthhandball.raisely.com/.

Hundreds of Happy Customers Love Supremo Autowash ‘Simply the best’

4.

John Whittaker, from left, Auckland Handball Committee president Thomas Schmider, and Nicholas Choi. Whittaker and Choi will represent New Zealand at the U19 Handball World Championship in August. Photo supplied

OFF TO HANDBALL WORLD CHAMPS Page 15

PURC U21s crowned Auckland Champions in thrilling clash

hey’ve done it! The Pakuranga United Rugby Club (PURC) U21 men are Auckland champions!

T

The teams met in round robin back in April, with the Cannons winning 27-17 that day, also on Bell Park.

First five Riley Harrison calmly slotted an early penalty to put the team in front 3-0 before the Cannons crossed for their first try 10 minutes into the first half. A well worked line out move saw Daren Uili show his strength by powering through the defence from close range to nab the five pointer which Harrison duly converted.

Far from one-way traffic, Grammar TEC bounced back with a converted try of their own midway through the first half.

Elkanah Petelo had several menacing runs down the left flank and crossed for a try to extend the Cannons’ lead to 15-7 at halftime.

View photos online to buy www.times.co.nz

A late venue change saw the undefeated U21s (Cannons) host Grammar TEC on Bell Park in front of a vocal crowd on Saturday morning. The Cannons won 23-15.Pakuranga United Rugby Club’s Under 21s have taken the Auckland title after subduing Grammar TEC at Bell Park on Saturday. Times photo Wayne Martin

The team traded second half penalties before a Grammar TEC try was awarded much to the ire of the home crowd who thought the player went out before scoring. The conversion bounced off the upright onto the crossbar and away, leaving the Cannons with

a 18-15 lead to defend in the last 20 minutes. While the match lost some structure in the latter parts of the game, Harrison did a good job with his territorial kicking to keep the Cannons at the right end of the field.

It was a sneaky kick through the

line from reserve halfback Regan McGregor and a tenacious chase line that put Grammar TEC under pressure close to their line, and when a pass went to ground, second five Kalepo Paualaisa pounced to score and extend the Cannons’ lead to 23-15.

The closing exchanges were tense as Grammar TEC had a number of attacking opportunities, all of which were thwarted by championship-winning defence.

Pakuranga director of rugby Grant ‘Boof’ Henson says Saturday was the icing on the cake for an awesome season.

“Our boys all came from local areas and 1B schools and, together with a good coaching crew, they just went from strength to strength this year. What really stood out to me was their culture, they had a large squad that kept together and really embodied one club, one culture. It’s exciting for the future of the club as many of those boys will be competing for starting spots in the prem team next season,” Henson says.

After their efforts on Saturday,

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the Cannons raised the Arthur Bayliss Cup to go alongside the Whetton Brother Cup and the Sir Wilson Whineray Challenge Cup, which they also claimed during their undefeated season.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t the same storybook ending for the PURC premier development side who went down to Puketapapa.

AUCKLAND CLUB RUGBY FINALS RESULTS

 Premier men results:

Gallagher Shield Final (1 v 2): University 14 – Manukau Rovers 20

Jubilee Trophy Final (5 v 6):

Suburbs 14 – Papatoetoe 41

Portola Trophy Final (9 v 10): Otahuhu 22 – Waitemata 35

 Premier reserve men

George Nicholson Trophy Final (1 v 2): Manukau 10 – Waitemata 29

Peter Fatialofa Trophy Final (5 v 6): Pakuranga 26 – Puketapapa 36

 U21 Men

Arthur Bayliss Cup Final (1 v 2): Grammar TEC 15 – Pakuranga 23

Stan Foster Memorial Plate Final (5 v 6): College Rifles 15 – Waitemata 22

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