Stacks of stories from

Taranaki - a region like no other. Unique, legendary and impressive!

#2 - MAY/JUNE 2021

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Creating Creating lakes lakes from from puddles puddles in in our our minds. minds. Whatever Whatever may may cloud cloud our our lives, lives,

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with with some some reflection reflection the the sun sun will will shine shine upon upon our our souls souls again. again.

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Photos by Justine and eRiQ

~ By Justine Joyce Olckers ~

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Autumn and winter, my favourite times of the year. When the leaves fall to the ground creating mother nature’s picturesque scene and the park gets a new ‘winter look’. King Edward Park, what a magical place to be. A horticulturist’s form of pure perfection. Entering the park via the main entrance you will see rows of green round tractor seat plants and blue and red salvia (sage) too. While walking in just take a minute to stop and observe the remarkable 100-year-old tree.

Take in all the beauty around you which is truly a great feeling. There is something for everyone in the park. Whilst the children enjoy the playground make your way around to the scented garden. It is not just visually attractive but smells great as well. Walking around you will find a wide variety of giant exotics such as your phoenix palm. Then there is the oriental garden which has a 118-year-old tree next to it. There is something alluring about older trees that not many people appreciate. Protecting the entrance of this garden are two neatly pruned yew trees, known to keep out bad energy.

King Edward Park is lucky to have a myriad of monarch butterflies and during the season they go and retire on the 100-year-old totara tree. There is also an abundance of old trees in the park, so next time you visit just stop and observe the beauty of these trees. Make your way to the perfectly pruned and laid out rose garden with its vast number of different coloured roses. King Edward Park also has an ‘annual garden’ that gets themed often. I love stepping in and seeing the geraniums and portulacas, and watching the little bumblebees hovering around. Sit down on the bench and absorb nature’s beauty.

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Have you spotted the remarkable kowhai and rimu trees standing proud alongside the green shrubbery? Heading to the other side of the park, a carpet rose showcases its beautiful pink flowers alongside the large duck pond.

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To the left of that is a smaller pond for the friendly ducks that sits in front of rhododendron bushes in a variety of colours awaiting their turn to burst into flower. As you head back out stop by and admire the pohutukawa trees and many nikau palms.

There are just so many trees, shrubs, and flowers to name; see how many you can discover the next time you visit King Edward Park.

Magical Creatures

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From an early age I was playing in the sand and exploring the beaches in the Netherlands. There wasn’t much to be found rock-wise, but my love for the mineral matter would soon be growing into much more than just using pebbles as makebelieve toys.

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TARANAKI

FOSSIL HUNTING

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One of the first rocks my grandmother brought back from Canada

It all started when my late grandmother brought back rocks from her trips to Canada, where one of her daughters (Auntie Jeanne) had moved to before I was even born. Some of them I incorporated into the world I created for my toy cars and figurines, while others were polished in my auntie’s rock tumbler and kept as treasures in a special place in my room for years to come. I have since collected many rocks and stones that I keep in my office as inspiration or a memory of

I love finding fossils of shells embedded in rocks

places visited, or as props in some of my photography. However, it wasn’t until we moved to Taranaki that I went full rockhound. The coastal highway of Taranaki with its rugged sandstone cliffs and black sand beaches fascinates me. It is intriguing how many pebbles, stones, rocks, and larger boulders you come across; some even showcasing fossils of shells and other natural elements. Personally, there is nothing more relaxing than going to a beach on a nice morning and looking at all

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the different varieties and shapes. As a photographer and cartoonist, the forms I often stumble upon inspire me and at the same time put me in touch with the history of this wonderful planet we live on. I have also discovered a feeling of relaxation with the process of stacking rocks and balancing these geological chunks, then taking photos of them while the sun is rising in the background. This perfect form of meditation helps me to cope with the hectic times we live in.

Piddocks are a strange group of clam-like shellfish that burrow into soft rocks such as clay and sandstone. They begin this process after settling as larvae and slowly enlarge and deepen the burrow as they grow. As such, they are essentially locked in and will live there for the rest of their lives.

The great thing is that you don’t need to be a genius geologist or radical rockhound to enjoy the many facets of fossils. They are right there for everyone to appreciate; with the imprints of shells or oysters left in the large boulders that line up along the shore. This is an ideal adventure for kids as they can learn about the history and nature of New Zealand and these little treasure hunts can make a trip to the beach a fun explorational journey through time.

You may even spot some rocks with holes in them; we call them holey rocks – the son of a friend of ours calls them Cheese Rocks. These holes are created by ‘boring molluscs’; not boring in the sense of your great uncle telling the same story about his trip to England in the fifties - no, they are known as Piddocks (or Angelwings) that have specially-adapted oval shells edged with fine teeth which they use to bore their burrows into rocks. One of these ‘holey rocks’

is basically like an abandoned apartment complex where little creatures used to live. Think about that the next time you walk along one of the Taranaki beaches. These days it’s easy enough to take nice close-up photos of the fossils you come across on your beach walks. Another fun activity for kids is to take some pencils and paper and do rubbings of the rocks, like what you can do with coins. You can create a unique piece of art from natural history.

You never know what you might come face to face with whilst exploring the rocks, just be careful not to slip and break yourshinbone!

‘ROCK FACES’ - THE FOLLOW UP BOOK BY THE AUTHOR OF SNACK FACES (AVAILABLE FOR FREE ON ISSUU) WILL BE OUT SOON! CRISP MAGAZINE

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By Cheval Graham

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The Waipipi Wind Farm is a mammoth construction project that has been developed by Tilt Renewables, an Australian electricity generation company focusing on renewable energy via wind and solar. CRISP MAGAZINE

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Tasked with the development in the South Taranaki region, the project which is now fully operational is located approximately 6km south-east of Patea and 8km south-west of Waverley, in South Taranaki. The site was the old Waipipi iron sands mine that was operational in the 70’s and 80’s and after the ceasing of mining the land reverted to a working cattle farm. Now this site is the region’s newest source of renewable energy.

But why was it built there? Tilt Renewable monitored sites and continues to monitor

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many sites throughout New Zealand as potential zones to develop and harness the power of wind. Based on the attributes listed below, Waipipi is a ‘Grade A’ site due to it having a high average wind speed and is located close to the electrical connection point at the Transpower Waverley substation. These are the two most important attributes for a wind farm site. In addition, other favourable aspects of the site are flat topography, a low ecological impact, good site access for construction, and the location of the wind farm adding diversification to the New Zealand electrical supply.

The wind farm consists of 31 wind turbines connected to the Transpower 110kV network via 11 kilometres of 110kV transmission line to the Waverley Substation. Resource consents for the Waipipi Wind Farm were secured in July 2017 for the construction and operation of the wind farm and transmission line. Now complete, the project involved the construction of 31 wind turbines and support infrastructure including an on-site substation, access tracks, and during the construction period, an on-site concrete batching plant.

The resource consent restricts the maximum wind turbine tip height to 160 metres, with the lowest point of the blades required to have a minimum ground clearance of 30 metres, allowing the design to use a maximum rotor size of 130 metres. The Waipipi Wind Farm will produce enough clean energy each year to power about 65,000 homes and save the emission of roughly 250,000 tonnes of carbon. The 800-hectare project envelope covers four properties, excluding those areas which have been identified as part of the Environmental Buffer Zone (EBZ). The formulation of the EBZ within the project site has

been informed and refined in response to the various environmental assessments – particularly those relating to visual amenity, natural character, coastal hazards, noise, ecology, avifauna, and heritage matters. The community feedback to date has been mainly positive. The only complaint we have received during the whole construction and operation of the wind farm was in relation to the wind turbine aviation lights which are in operation on 9 of the 31 turbines. These lights are a safety feature for aircraft and are required as a condition of the resource consent and the regulations of the Civil Aviation Authority. They are a legal requirement.

In comparison, some of the positive attributes that have been shared with us include the positive economic impact the project has brought to the regional and local economy through contracting, lodging, goods, and services. Tilt Renewables is committed to open and honest dialogue with all stakeholders, with an aim to build and enhance community acceptance and trust in all projects and in the renewable energy industry. The Waipipi Wind Farm will directly employ 150 staff during the construction period, which will be up to two years.

Economic assessments forecast the multiplier effect will sustain around 700 jobs per year throughout this construction period. The Waipipi Wind Farm will employ three fulltime staff during its 30-year operation. There have been positive comments about how the wind farm will act as a tourist attraction for the Waverley / Patea area and how this will draw people to the area and have them stop in town. Tilt Renewables are currently working on a carpark and viewing area with wind farm information boards that will be installed at the end of Dryden road and at the Patea lookout.

There has also been feedback on how quiet the turbines actually are when visitors get up close.

Why not see for yourself ? The eye-capturing landmarks are visible from many coastal vantage points throughout the South Taranaki region. Getting up close to see them is something to behold.

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Paige Hareb surfing the Taranaki waves 16

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“We’re spoiled for choice on the Taranaki coast and when the surf ’s too big for my mediocre ability, I’m lucky that I get to live vicariously through my lens.” - Adrian Cleary

INSTAGRAM @taranaki.surf.photography - @acphotographynz

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By Justine Joyce Olckers Photography by eRiQ and Justine

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Taranaki Pioneer Village on State Highway 3, just south of Stratford in Central Taranaki, offers 10 acres of Taranaki Heritage.

Go back in time to the 1850’s and experience a full day living like the pioneers. This historic village is built on a four-hectare site and has over 40 authentic buildings to explore. You will get an appreciation of what the schools, churches, hospitals, and many more of the wonderful buildings looked like. This is a fantastic experience for the whole family. They have chickens and sheep that one can feed and a train that will depart from the station and take you for a trip around the whole village. Make sure to stop by the Village’s neighbour, the Shakee Pear Café, on your way out for some mouth-watering food.

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Helen McLorinan, Taranaki artist

A Wharf of Tryphena, Great Barrier Island – ‘Serendipity’ (around 2004).

Where were you born and where did you grow up? I was born in Whakatane, Bay of Plenty in 1976 and I grew up there. I spent my childhood cycling to school, making huts, creating buildings out of renovation offcuts, and sewing dolls clothes. During my teen years I worked after school in a sign shop and loved playing hockey.

What first got you into art? Interesting question as I always thought I would give my High School art teachers credit here but realistically my parents did. Many of our toys were revamped or made from scratch, so my parents have the creative mind and taught my siblings and I to create.

Who was your art teacher and what is the most important thing you learnt from them? Mr Soppitt and Mr Baird from Whakatane High School Art Department. Experiment. Share what you know. Have an open door for anybody who would like to give art a go. Art is therapeutic.

Who inspired you to become an artist? I cannot really pinpoint one person, but initially the talented trade people from my initial trade of signwriting. The techniques they showed with composition, transferring an image to a substrate, lettering skills and colour mixing. I knew that I was attracted to buildings, structure, history, but I did not come to paint these until 2004. My first experience in an art studio was on Great Barrier Island nearly 25 years ago. That artist was potter Sarah Harrison showing me that there was a difference between commercial and fine art.

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What inspires you and what do you enjoy painting the most?

How would you describe the art that you typically create?

Anything that I think I can convert into my version/style on canvas. I find buildings in nature at the right angle inspiring or a composition that makes the viewer feel like they are the ones standing there. I enjoy painting skies and water and could do that forever, but that would just get boring.

That is a tough one. Bright paintings with connection. Quirky and sentimental sketches. I have painted and challenged myself over time but still go back to coastal and water scenes.

What piece of art are you most proud of and why?

How can people follow your work? www.helenmclorinan.com

A Wharf of Tryphena, Great Barrier Island ‘Serendipity’ (around 2004) - Why? It is a view that I associate with my visits to the island and the years of self-healing I went through to get there. The view is one of a time I remember knowing that I would live there someday and ‘live the dream’. The other piece is ‘Beautiful Survivor – 2019’. This piece was donated with all funds to Taranaki Retreat - why? It raised $10,000. Oh, and then there was my 100-day challenge last year when I drew our daughter every day.

Facebook: Helen McLorinan Artist or Little Nikau. Instagram: Little Nikau. Mob: 0277405549 or call by where I work at Janes Gallery, 30 Devon Street East, New Plymouth.

What is your most important artist tool?

My daughter - 100-day challenge.

My hands.

Is there something you couldn’t live without in your studio? Music. I can improvise around the rest having lived in remote locations. I am grateful to have a studio.

Gairloch - Beautiful Survivor (2019)

What other pastimes do you have besides art? Renovating a caravan, gardening, walking, fairy letters for our daughter, and creating a less complicated life lol.

What is the best advice you’ve been given? The hardest part of starting something is starting.

What’s next for you? Finishing the caravan as it’s going to be an ART CARAVAN based in Urenui for my work and a few other local talented creatives. An exhibition in Oct/Nov at Mokau Art Gallery. Taranaki Arts Trail. Painting to restock for Great Barrier Island Community Art Gallery.

What would you tell someone wanting to get into art? Ask another artist (of interest) if you can spend a bit of time with them and if they have any spare product, give it a go. Make mistakes, they might be accidental brilliance. If you are wanting to do art to sell it is a hard market out there. But never undervalue the hours you spend on a piece. That part has taken me 25 years to figure out.

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Laconic Zephyr are a funky pop/rock band from New Plymouth, New Zealand. Their achievements include six number one hit singles in the NZ iTunes Rock Chart and a #1 on the NZ National Heat Seekers Chart.

If you have a fundraiser or event to organise then Laconic Zephyr are guaranteed to attract the crowds with their high energy show performance.

Since 2014 Laconic Zephyr have created a foundation of musical talent where they have worked collaboratively with various artists around New Zealand. The band performs at private events, festivals, weddings and functions. Laconic Zephyr’s repertoire covers a variety of song styles, from different artists, genres, and decades. Their vocal harmonies are guaranteed to get you moving and their rhythmic beats will leave you inspired!

Joss Bines

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Visit www.laconiczephyr.com for links on where you can enjoy their sounds or to book them for your next event.

(Lead vocals and bass) Where were you born and where did you grow up? I was born in Wellington and grew up in Waitara and New Plymouth, Taranaki.

Who inspired you to get into music? My mum inspired me – I was singing and learning how to play guitar from six years of age.

How would you describe the music that you typically create? Leading vocalisation melodic harmonies and driven by guitars, keyboards, and rhythmic drumbeats. Described as colourful uplifting inspired by Pink, Gin Wigmore, Fleetwood Mac, The Cure and Six 60.

Who would you most like to collaborate with? Dua Lipa, Fleetwood Mac, L.A.B or Six 60.

If you could go open a show for any artist who would it be? Any of the bands above!

Do you sing in the shower? What songs? Don’t Start Now - Dua Lipa Don’t Forget Your Roots - Six 60 Stronger - Kelly Clarkson Let’s Come Together- Laconic Zephyr

What other pastimes do you have besides music? Relay For Life - Music Director Taranaki Groove Festival - Marketing Manager Yoga, Gym, Mountain Biking, Tramping and Gardening

Do you have a business or where do you work when you aren’t performing?

What is one message you would give to younger people wanting to get into music?

Music Teacher and Vocal Coach.

Keep playing and learning new things - be yourself and be as open as you can. Always go to shows or attend meet and greets. Have fun and do your thing!

What is your favourite song to perform? Wake Up - Laconic Zephyr

What’s next for you?

What is your most amazing moment you have experienced as a musician?

We are currently recording and will be releasing our new single ‘Let’s Come Together’ in June, along with a video.

Performing at Christmas at the Lake counting down the fireworks display!

What is the best advice you’ve been given? Never forget to stop and appreciate how far you’ve come! Always feel grateful.

What are your social media details so people can follow and contact you? Laconic Zephyr on Facebook, Instagram, Spotify. Digital links can be found on www.laconiczephyr.com

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Instagram:@egmontphotography

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Teresa Greenhill Ask any child what they would like to be when they grow up and chances are the answer they give will be a far cry from what they end up doing, and it’s probably just as well. I don’t recall having any ‘childhood visions’ of what I wanted to do apart from work in a pharmacy, because it always smelt nice! My career has been varied, but one thing that has shone through in all my roles is my desire to help people, to make their lives easier, and to give them exceptional customer service. I started my ‘real estate life’ back in Tauranga working with a fantastic and supportive bunch of people. When I relocated to Hawera almost 13 years ago (where that time has gone, I will never know), I diversed and worked at the then Radio Network as an Account Manager. It was a great opportunity for me to get to know the business folk in town and for some time I was also on the executive committee for Bizlink Hawera. Two children later, I decided to get back into what I was passionate about, people and property. I joined the team at Harcourts and here we are, the present day almost seven years later. During these years, I have had the joy of helping numerous first home buyers into their first homes, sharing in their journey, and sometimes the ‘nail biting’ wait for things to go through. Everyone’s situation is different, and it is an absolute privilege to be just a small

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Sales & Marketing Consultant Harcourts Hawera

part of every story. From working with families that have lost loved ones or moved into retirement homes, to separations and other difficult and stressful situations, I have been there to provide support and counsel. Selling or buying a home, I believe, is the by-product of what I actually do. It is the people behind the homes that are of utmost importance to me and helping them through the process. It is definitely not just about selling homes. Whilst we try not to get emotionally involved in issues faced, it’s hard at times when you naturally care about outcomes and the people involved. Many clients I have worked with have become good friends and I think that’s a testament to the good relationships I have built. If I were to write an advertisement for my job, I think the following attributes would be advisable; shows tenacity and

empathy, is able to provide counselling, property financial advisor, a good listening ear, able to think outside the square, a genuine care for people. I love talking real estate, but I also love talking about other things. So, if you have any property questions, or you just want a chat over a coffee, I’m only a phone call away.

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By Cheval Graham

Just A Puppy Cut Just down from the Hawera town centre, a High Street icon has undergone a transformation. From the familiar Parklane Takeaways to a few other eateries in between, this building now has a new operation inside. Under the helm of Michelle Henderson, Just A Puppy Cut is taking bookings and up styling and grooming South Taranaki dogs, big and small, from near and far. Michelle has always loved animals. When she studied tourism and travel, she felt out of place but changing over to vet nursing ignited a spark in the field of animal care. Work experience in a zoo was enjoyable but tough work and then a passion for dog grooming was discovered after an opportunity was offered at Animates.

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“Getting trained as a dog groomer involves both the practical side of learning to wash and blow dry, and then clip, as well as exams that teach the different techniques for the breed and size of the dog,” explains Michelle. After working her way up to regional manager with Animates Hamilton over three years, Michelle started her own business in the city before finally returning to her hometown of South Taranaki. She spent time researching the viability of dog grooming in the region but was

also fully committed to returning to Taranaki’s lifestyle, affordable house prices and business prospects. Originally operating from a home base in Manaia, the customers grew quickly with many loading their dogs into the car and travelling from Hawera. “It wasn’t long before the demand from Hawera was so great that I had to make the move to town.” The location on High Street is perfect; easy for clients to get to, plenty of space for parking, but also far enough from

the CBD that the noise of dogs barking won’t cause disturbance to neighbouring businesses. When I visited Just A Puppy Cut, Michelle was working with a labradoodle named Copper who was receiving a standard service. This consists of a wash and blow dry, nails cut, ears cleaned, and a haircut which will take about an hour. Copper enjoys the treatment as he watches the cars and pedestrians going by out on the main street. The cost and time taken varies depending on the breed and size of dog, with additional services able to be requested such as teeth cleaning.

“South Taranaki is a great place to grow up. Being a small community, you are with the same people through school and work, who become life-long friends. In a city, people tend to get separated as they attend different schools and make various career choices.” Returning clients combined with referrals now keep her busy and Michelle is often booked out weeks in advance. Community support has also been amazing and helped with the success. Just A Puppy Cut certainly has become a viable business that South Taranaki can enjoy having on their doorstep.

If you would like to support Just A Puppy Cut, visit @justapuppycut on Instagram and click like. You can also book an appointment on their Facebook page or phone/text 027 308 7953.

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Gastronomic Quest Taranaki

By Justine Joyce Olckers

Where we brag about our ‘go- t

Heading into Hawera, nestled on the corner of the town’s main street, sits a bestloved coffee shop of mine. What makes this coffee shop perfect to me is their trading hours. If you need a coffee at 6am in the morning, then this is the place to be. I highly recommend stopping here for a quick bite and a coffee, and don’t forget to grab one of their fresh banana breads when you head back out. Going into this coffee shop and not just having friendly service but staff who eventually know your order by heart is amazing. You feel like part of a family there.

My favourite treat is their iced coffees and butter chicken pies. There is not a day that I haven’t seen this coffee shop busy, so get in quick.

“Gastronomy, has been the joy of all peoples through the ages. It produces beauty and wit and goes hand in hand with goodness of heart and a consideration of others.” - Charles Pierre Monselet (1825-88) French author. 32

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HAWERA KITCHENS With Hawera Kitchens you can expect quality workmanship and can deal with the owners from start to finish.

It made sense for Klint and Lance to start Hawera Kitchens together, as they both shared an interest and had a natural ability working with wood from a young age. They both pursued careers in the cabinet making industry by leaving school to enter apprenticeships with a renowned Cabinet Maker. In 2010 they purchased an established family business. Their lives then became extremely busy being husbands, fathers, and sportsmen, alongside working hard to develop and expand the business. “We enjoy working closely with our clients to produce their dream kitchen. Each kitchen, no matter how large or small, creates an exciting new challenge and we cater for all budgets. As our business grows, we have invested in new machinery enabling better quality and efficiency. Although kitchens are our specialty, we both have retained the skills that allow us to build and restore custom furniture. This includes wardrobes, laundries, other benchtops, and kitchen repairs throughout the Taranaki area. We cater for all budgets.

In 2012 and 2013 Hawera Kitchens received awards for Business Presentation and Service. This was reassurance that they are heading in the right direction. They are also Häfele Studio Partners and have access to their world class kitchen and joinery hardware and fitting systems. The ‘Kitchen Brothers’ are now located in the former Noel Leeming building on the corner of Union and

Wellington Streets, which is larger and closer to the middle of town. “We were running out of space where we were. We’ve taken on more staff and are striving to be more efficient and display more product.” We service residential and commercial customers from New Plymouth to Whanganui.

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WE ARE THE KITCHEN BROTHERS - KLINT AND LANCE HUNT We’ve been producing quality joinery for over 30 years. From new kitchens in high-end architectural homes to benchtop replacements and small kitchen repairs. All our work meets Master Joiner Association standards.

Where were you born and where did you grow up? Both Hawera born and bred.

What encouraged you to be a joiner?

We have always been good with our hands and had an uncle in the trade.

What were you doing before Hawera Kitchens?

Both did our time locally, Klint first started in 1990 and Lance later in1996.

Who was your biggest inspiration growing up?

Our parents, Cliff and Helen. They have always been hard workers.

What piece of work are you most proud of and why?

We are proud of all the work we have done for the locals in and around South Taranaki, supplying them with quality kitchens. Why? Because we love this place.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

Work smarter and a little harder.

What are your hobbies besides your trade?

We both play football and have done for many years. Klint enjoys watching movies on the big screen at home with his wife and kids and Lance loves his WilliamsWarn brewing.

What would you tell someone wanting to get into your trade?

If you want a long-lasting career with plenty of job satisfaction, joinery is a smart choice. There is high demand for manual trades these days.

How can people contact you?

Phone 06 278 7044, email: contact@hawerakitchens.co.nz, Website: www.hawerakitchens.co.nz

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NEW PLYMOUTH

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Kaponga Post and Telegraph Office, built 1915.

Carman’s Bookstore

This was a proud well-maintained building right up until the government ordered its closure. Kaponga residents remember going in the left-hand side door to post a letter to family living in Australia when they were children. They also have fond memories of opening their first post office bank account when they turned five-years-old; the oak-cased stamp machines in the left hand foyer; and running up and down the black rubber mat in the hall that led down to the post master’s office. The Telephone Exchange was inside the door and older residents still have memories of Ida the cleaner shaking a mop out in the wind each night. The old safe is an amazing antique that remains even though someone has now resided in this building for a few years.

One Eltham resident remembers their schooldays in the 1950’s and buying weekly comics from this bookstore. Later in the 1970’s they bought books until the store’s closure. Eltham was a busy little town back then and Friday night trips into town were a real treat, with everyone making an effort to dress in their best outfits. In the 1980’s there was late shopping on Thursdays and groceries were purchased from Jack Starks where the 4-Square is now. There were butchers, chemists, clothes stores, bookstores, toyshops, hairdressers, barbers, hotels; everything you needed.

Visit Taranaki Old & Abandoned Houses, Buildings & Machinery on Facebook for more great photos.

Photos by Brenda Sixtus 38

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Kaponga Post and Telegraph Office.

Carman’s Bookstore

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Potaema Swamp Walk Hanging gardens and carpets of moss and ferns dwarfed by a towering forest. Potaema Swamp walk is a wheelchair friendly track where raised boardwalks take you through lush lowland forest made up of rimu-rata/ kamahi, kahikatia and mountain totara/ pokaka. The track leads to a large lowland bog that sustains a wide variety of flora and fauna. Magnificent views of the mountain can be enjoyed on a clear day from the viewing platform as you look out across the swamp.

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Goblins, elves, hobbits would all feel at home here in this enchanted place. It is primarily kamahi trees which began life perched on the trunks of other trees. Their trunks and branches have grown through and around the existing trees, creating the distinctive gnarled, twisted forest.

How do I get there?

In Stratford, turn into Pembroke Road, signposted Egmont National Park The Plateau.

The Department of Conservation Area Office is on the left after 8.2 km, 1.7 km before the entrance to Egmont National Park. The Mountain House is 4.5 km inside the park boundary, 4.5 km below the Plateau Carpark at the road end. The start of the track is signposted from the parking area 1.7 km from the park entrance. There are picnic tables close by.

Goblins, elves, hobbits would all feel at home here in this enchanted place.

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Stratford celebrates Puanga Stratford celebrates Puanga in style by holding a special market day on Saturday 3 July. Storyboards are put up in Prospero Place and a flag design competition is organised with local schools; the winning ones getting made into street flags that hang down Broadway during celebrations. This year Percy Thomson Gallery is also holding a Puanga exhibition with local schools. Stratford’s Puanga Rakau can be viewed in the foyer of Percy Thomson Gallery and people are invited to write down their aspirations for the year ahead, as well as take time to reflect on the previous year.

Puanga background:

Prior to colonisation, Māori used their own system to distinguish specific time periods. Environmental events such as the migration of birds and fish species, the flowering of plants and the movements of stars across the sky were markers for time and signalled changes in the seasons. Our tūpuna traditionally observed the stars noting the rise of a particular star or constellation just before the sunrise.

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These changes were recorded in stories, songs and whakataukī (proverbs). Ko Puanga te pae ārahi i ngā tohu o te tau hou i te pae ururangi. Puanga leads the celestial signs to herald the New Year. While the exact timing of the Māori New Year differs among tribes, most iwi celebrate in the lunar month of Pipiri (June-July). In Taranaki, Whanganui, parts of the Far North and parts of the South Island, the star Puanga (or Rigel) is the marker for the Māori New Year. For other iwi, the cluster of Matariki (Pleiades or the “Seven Sisters”) signals the dawning of the New Year. The first new moon in the month Pipiri is the period when stars like Puanga and Matariki set. This phase is an opportunity to reflect on the past year. Puanga and Matariki will rise again about a fortnight later. In this phase we acknowledge the rising of our loved ones that have passed during the year so that their spirits may become stars themselves, and to prepare to celebrate and move forward. In traditional times, the celebration of Puanga was the conclusion of a lot of hard work carried out during the warmer months – the growing,

harvesting and storing of food for the long cold nights ahead. Without a telescope, we see Puanga as one star but it is actually a binary star meaning that it cloaks another close to it. `The easiest way to find Puanga is to look into the sky in an easterly direction just before the sun rises. `Look for Tautoru, Orion’s Belt or the bottom of ‘the Pot’. Puanga is the brightest star above Te Kakau or the handle of the Pot. Now if you follow a line directly from the bottom of the Pot to the left, you will come across the bright orange star Taumata-kuku or Aldebaran. `The next cluster to the left of Taumatakuku is Matariki – a group of what looks to be seven bluish stars clustered close together. There are about 500 stars in the Matariki cluster, but we only see six or seven without a telescope. Customs heralding Puanga traditionally centre around the gathering of food and people. In modern times, this has not changed. With the colder weather, Puanga is an opportune time to share hospitality and knowledge by hosting or attending wānanga (learning centres), to feast and celebrate, to share memories of those that have passed and to plan and set goals for the future.

With the rising of Puanga and Matariki bright moments appear more frequently.

“Here in Taranaki, we have a magnificent maunga that blocks (for a period of time) our view of Matariki. Puanga shines bright in our sky and appears during the month of June and at this time our rohe come together and celebrate. We remember those who have left us and acknowledge our works of the past year. Then we make plans for the future and look forward to what is to come.” Tērā Puanga ka rewa i te pae. Nau mai, haramai te hua o te tau hou - Yonder is Puanga, suspended over the horizon, welcome and come forth the fruits of the New Year.” @orangatamariki

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Eltham buildings Just 20 km north of Hāwera, Eltham has a fascinating history and the intrigue of the pioneer buildings and vibrant murals make you stop in your tracks. The buildings are significant for their architecture and importance to Eltham’s social and economic history. Eleven of the buildings are registered as significant buildings with the NZ Historic Places Trust.

Eltham was proclaimed a town district in 1884 and on 10 October 1901 was constituted a borough, with the town hall being built in 1911. Historically, Eltham has been the most highly industrialised town (per capita) in New Zealand, this rural town being where the New Zealand dairy industry first went global.

Chinese businessman Chew Chong exported the country’s first butter from Eltham to England in 1884. He also built the first dairy factory in 1887. Today, cheese is the town’s main claim to fame with the main employer being the cheese factory. Make sure to buy something delicious for your picnic basket before heading to the lake. Eltham Municipal Building. Built in 1911, this two storeyed building houses the Eltham Borough Council with the Public Library and Reading Rooms on the upper floor. The building was designed by Architects, Rough and Duffill, and is constructed of reinforced concrete. Did you know that the basement of the present Municipal Building was used as a morgue during the 1918 influenza epidemic? Today the lower floor houses the Eltham Service Centre of the South Taranaki District Council.

The Eltham Argus came into existence in December 1897 as a biweekly paper, and in the year 1902 appeared as a daily evening paper.

Hallenstein Brothers, or ‘HB’, as almost everyone called the firm, began in 1873 when German-born merchant Bendix Hallenstein (1835-1905) established the New Zealand Clothing Factory in Dunedin to supply his stores. Most cities and towns had at least one Hallensteins shop.

Eltham’s former neoclassical-style bank, resplendent with Corinthian columns, was originally designed by Wellington architects Crichton & McKay. The old BNZ closed for business in 1998 and after a facelift has now transformed into a cool and quirky home.

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Visit the Fonterra Eltham Cheese Bar on Bridge Street, Monday to Friday, to sample speciality cheese and other products.

Did you also know that in August 2010 Eltham broke the Guinness World Record for the world’s biggest scone? The massive 121kg scone creamed the previous British record of 60kg. In 1906 Eltham’s Bridge Street became the first tar sealed road in New Zealand. The town also claims the first concrete floored cowshed, first use of concrete power poles, and the invention of the turnstile cowshed. There is also the invention of the quick release trailer couplings by Carac Couplings. In 2009 the Eltham community provided location sites for the filming of a full-length movie of Ronald Hugh

Eltham’s vibrant murals make you stop in your tracks!

Morrieson’s novel ‘Predicament’. The film, a comedy crime caper directed by Jason Stutter, required many of the shop frontages to be renovated and repainted and these improvements boosted the appearance of this remarkable little town. Stroll through the town and enjoy the cafes, visit the Village Art Gallery, and if you are a bargain hunter and curio collector

you will love the many charming village shops which celebrate the retro past.

The many charming village shops celebrate the retro past.

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By Justine Joyce Olckers

Tara Woodhouse has always had a passion and love for horses since she was a young child and has a remarkable way of connecting with animals.

Rehabilitating She came across her pride and joy, Billy, three years ago in 2018. Billy’s journey had been rather rocky but from the day Tara got her horse he has steadily improved. Billy has developed kissing spines, which occurs when two or more bony projections at the top of the vertebrae touch or overlap. Tara has put in lots of love and effort, along with sweat and tears to help Billy with this condition. It is not over yet, and this is a never-ending beautiful journey between her and her magical horse. Tara got her horse from Martinborough

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it was love at first sight. The trip to Billy’s new location was easy and he settled well, being rather excited to see new places. He seems to have made Taranaki his forever home. In the beginning Tara had felt that it just all seemed too perfect and at one stage even doubted herself and her ability to educate and retrain a racehorse. This was a new undertaking, but she is achieving her goals and proving everyone wrong who told her she wouldn’t succeed. Tara is not doing it for anyone else and this journey is based purely on the love she has for Billy and the love he has for her.

a Racehorse Tara has spent many hours educating herself on the issues a racehorse incurs or can develop. She has faced every problem that has arisen and dealt with them, even if it has cost her a lot of money, time and mental energy. Billy’s core strength has been helped through regular slow yogabased movements and carrot stretches and she has seen great improvement. I have never seen anyone connect with a horse in the way Tara does and she just knows what Billy is needing.

She sees the beauty in everything around her and Billy feels this energy. Tara’s fondest memory with Billy was their first ride out on a farm, where he was looking at all the farm animals Tara explains, “It’s seeing the flowers together and feeling that gentle breathing he does that brought me the greatest joy.” Tara wishes to have more places where one can experience the benefits of horse therapy. In the meantime, she is grateful to be able to wake up and see Billy just across the road.

Tara would like to thank Belinda Wakeling from the local Pony Club and Michelle Radford for their advice, encouragement, and some extra grass for Billy when she had first moved to Taranaki. If you love something enough, you will fight the battle with it. The day you give up on it, you give up on yourself. Never give up on something you love. Tara has proven this through facing the tough challenges like a champion.

Billy seems to have made Taranaki his forever home.

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Patea beach (5-4-21) Photography by Angela White Instagram: angwnz CRISP MAGAZINE

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JUSTINE JOYCE OLCKERS Where were you born and where did you grow up? I was born and grew up in Gauteng, South Africa. What first got you into writing and at what age? I have been writing ever since I was a child and could write. I never had anyone who inspired me, it was just something I believe I was ‘born to do’. Did you have a teacher who inspired you and what is the most important thing you learnt from them? I am lucky to have gone to a private ‘artsy’ school. My English and Drama teachers would be my high school inspirations for writing. My English teacher despised the word ‘very’ and urged everyone to stop using ‘intensifiers’, and made sure we spelt ‘a lot’ correctly. These were his major pet peeves. They also encouraged me to read a range of books. Read, read, and read some more. My Drama teacher enjoyed reading my poetry and gave me tips and tricks to make it sound better. I was fortunate to have two amazing teachers that I still look up to so much. What is the best advice you’ve been given? The best advice comes from my editor who says, “keep writing and don’t miss one day or you will lose the flow.” If you could tell your younger writing self anything what would it be? “Believe in yourself and keep writing. Take the good criticism to heart.” What is your fondest memory? Finding an Oscar Wilde book in the U.K. A great thick book of all his work. Why do you love being a writer? It gives me a chance to escape reality and live in my own make-believe world. What do you enjoy writing the most? I have always loved poetry and it is the first writing I did as a child.

What is your favourite quote? ‘I don’t know where I am going but I am on my way’ by Carl Sagan. I even have this tattooed on the back of my leg. As a writer what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal? I don’t have a mascot that cheers me on BUT I have always seen my own characters in my books as my ‘mascots’ and make-believe friends. Those characters who aren’t real but get me. They give me a reason to wake up and write some more. What other hobbies do you enjoy when you aren’t writing? I have grown to love hiking. As a child it was something I despised, but now I love it. My other hobbies are photography and cooking. Where is your favourite place to go for inspiration? This is a tricky question because I have a lot of places. Music is more of an influence on my writing than places. As a writer you see a story in everything but with the right music you have a story. What is your favourite adult book? Spud by John van de Ruit and anything by Shakespeare. I love that style of writing. What is your favourite childhood book? I don’t have a favourite but have fond memories of my mum and grandparents making up stories that had me believing in them. I suppose that is why I now have such a great imagination. What is the first book that made you cry? It would have to be Spud. When the little guy died from meningitis I cried like a baby. This was probably because I knew there was truth to Spud.

What music do you listen to when you are writing? A variety. The key to great writing is to listen to every genre. I can sometimes listen to ‘Beautiful’ by Karen Zoid on repeat while writing a whole chapter and not get bored, and then for the next chapter I will jump to Chopin classical music. It really depends on what my characters are doing and where my mind is. Do you have a favourite spot to sit when you are writing? I used to always sit on my bed and write but now sit at the dining room table, as I get less tired. I sit up straight and it makes me think straight. Sometimes when I get a writer’s block I tend to shift around until I can feel my writing again. Usually sitting outside for some fresh air gets me back in the game. What is next for you? I am busy with loads of projects. I am finishing off a few children’s books, a short story collection and have more ideas in the pipeline. What would you tell someone wanting to get into writing? If you want to write, then research your topic. If you are not feeling your writing anymore then put it down and move on to something else. Do not throw any writing away. Invest in a good editor. Don’t make writing a task, make it fun. You will get people who love your writing and others who hate it. The only opinions that matter are your own and your editor, don’t be discouraged by anyone else. Always carry a pen and notebook with you. It is such a waste when you get a great idea but have nowhere to write it down and then it is forgotten. How can people follow your work? Facebook: Justine Joyce Olckers – Author Instagram: justineolckers Amazon: Justine J Olckers

What piece of writing are you most proud of and why? My novella ‘Letters to Titan’ because it was my first writing achievement.

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www.eqube.co.nz

The Authors of

eRiQ QUAADGRAS Where were you born and where did you grow up? Little Erik was pushed into the world in the city of The Hague, the Netherlands. Until high school that was where I grew up before moving to Voorburg, Leidschendam and Leiden. What first got you into writing and at what age? Writing has always been a passion for me. In Primary School I wrote short stories and had my first ever comic strip printed in the school paper. I started writing a journal from 1977 and have since built up quite a library of them that I can use for inspiration. Did you have a teacher who inspired you and what is the most important thing you learnt from them? I can’t say that there were any teachers that inspired me to write. As an artist my high school art teacher, Mrs. Vucsan, was an inspiration for my drawing and illustration. What is the best advice you’ve been given? The past doesn’t equal the future. If you could tell your younger writing self anything what would it be? Keep writing and collect things that you might be using in your future writing. Make sure to back up your digital journal ‘back up’ (I lost SEVEN years due to a computer glitch that wiped all those entries, even from the back up). What is your fondest memory? My first trip to Disneyland in 1977 with my grandmother when I was ten years old. Why do you love being a writer? Writing is a form of therapy. It’s a way to formulate the complicated thoughts that spin around in my brain each day. For years I had kept my writing to myself, fearing it wouldn’t be good enough to share – worrying about any negative reactions. I am glad I have found the strength to be able to overcome that fear to the point where I have been able to publish some of my stories.

What do you enjoy writing the most? Any stories loosely based on my personal experiences, with humour added and a touch of mystery. Whether it is poetry, a short story, a book, or even an article. I enjoy playing with words – letting them dance on the page, hoping someone will get enjoyment from even one sentence. What piece of writing are you most proud of and why? My Shock Trilogy is something I am very proud of as it kick-started being published. What is your favourite quote? The past doesn’t equal the future. As a writer what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal? A meerkat as they are my favourite animal. But I do love birds as well and often think some of the sparrows that come to visit during the day are there to inspire me. What other hobbies do you enjoy when you aren’t writing? Drawing on my digital tablet, PlayStation games, watching movies and photography. Where is your favourite place to go for inspiration? Ohawe Beach – I love going there around sunrise, just being alone with all the rocks. Stacking them, taking photos and looking for fossils. What is your favourite adult book? It would be a battle between Stephen King’s ‘IT’ and John Irving’s ‘The World According to Garp’. What is your favourite childhood book? It’s a Dutch book, ‘Kruistocht in Spijkerbroek’ (Crusade in Jeans) – a time travel story about a boy who travels to the time of the crusades.

eQuBe Publishing

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What is the first book that made you cry? Not many books make me cry, but when I was reading ‘WIDOW FOR A YEAR’ by John Irving in the year my father had died, parts of the book brought me to tears whilst reading it during a train trip. What music do you listen to when you are writing? A mixture of music but I am mostly drawn to movie soundtracks. I like using song titles in my writing and often play the music to get inspired. Like in ‘Cul-De-Shock’ there’s a strong David Bowie influence. Do you have a favourite spot to sit when you are writing? With modern technology it makes it easier to have my tablet anywhere, but I do tend to write more at my desk. Over the years my typing has become faster and I often find myself typing blindly, yet if I consciously try to do this it doesn’t work. What is next for you? There are so many stories still to tell. I have a few series that I will be exploring over the coming years, spin-offs of the Shock Trilogy – all part of the Q-niverse. I do have a few other ideas that I have been working on in my mind, so just keep reading the CRISP magazine to find out what might sprout from my brain in time to come! What would you tell someone wanting to get into writing? Marry an editor :) - Google is your friend when it comes to research. Find your passion and just start writing. Make sure to jot down in your journal those real-life experiences as they could become gems for future stories. Write, write, and then write some more. How can people follow your work? Google eRiQ Quaadgras to follow me on the different platforms. My books are either available on Amazon or ISSUU. My photography is on Instagram, Facebook, and of course in the magazine you are reading right now.

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Only Angels Have Wings By Courtney Hatcher

P S I R C RY T E PO D R A BO

Tainted from the light, imperfections show. Unsightly weeds thorned around my ankles, they cut at flowers that grew from the sun. Creating a disaster that will one day cease to exist. She was an angel, even angels cry. Helping those who could not see their reflections in full form. Leading the misguided to a beautiful disaster called ’normal’. Her flaws shined and she owned them, in small trinkets of light. The definition of perfect that cannot be touched by cruel hands. Turning into something beautiful. Only angels have wings, she flies to great heights.

Alone By Justine Joyce Olckers I sought your approval for many years You were not there for me You were not there I craved your attention But you left me in despair You left me feeling lonely You left me in this big world alone I hide the pain in my songs I hide my sadness in my smile I will always feel alone

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s r e g n Stra friends e m a e c m a be c be o h w ! s e i enem e stin - Ju

It is their land By Justine Joyce Olckers Crystal clear water In pristine natural springs Where the wind blows And no one dare goes

ull The glass is f yet broken! - Justine

It’s a little hidden gem It is their land

Respect

Hectares of white sand Strewn across the land Exotic wild creatures Not discovered by man It is their land

Pillar of Hope By eRiQ

By eRiQ Mutual Love ... It’s a path we take Unless we want to break Up and down The hills and thrills Of togetherness Sometimes tears of frustration Other moments tears of joy No road is as smooth as glass Or it would shatter under the weight of life When you walk under a cliff You can expect rocks to fall down The trick is to dodge them And stay alive Respect the cliffs

No matter how down you might get there will always be some loving lifeline out there in the wide world Just send a sign, just shake a tree just reach out and share - even with me the troubles that could cloud your mind there are those that TRULY can be KIND

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MORTY MULIGAN By Justine J Olckers and eRiQ Quaadgras Available on Amazon

The second book in the new children’s book series by New Zealand Author Justine J. Olckers and illustrator eRiQ Quaadgras is now also available on Amazon. In this latest adventure, Morty Muligan the Magnificent Mole and Flintie the Frog are both helping Keri the Cricket find something she has lost.

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Make sure you get a copy for your kids of these new children’s books by Justine J Olckers and eRiQ Quaadgras

the Magnificent

MOLE

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CRISP Letters to Titan By Justine J. Olckers A young woman’s life is turned upside down as she stumbles across a mystery involving sketchy government agencies, friends with questionable motives, and even members of her family. Apart from the fact that she can no longer trust anyone, there still are a handful of those who want nothing more than to keep her safe, even though some of them aren’t human at all. She finds out hidden truths of who her family really were and why she hadn’t met her father before. With special forces involved and strange alien-like creatures from Titan; this book is sure to keep your suspense levels on a high. NZ ORDERS

$7

BELIEVE:

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A collection of poetry and short stories By Justine J. Olckers A personal collection of poetry and short stories, inspired by Oscar Wilde. Poetry is the window to my soul and writing is the view

NZ ORDERS

$5

Published by eQuBe - Available on Amazon or by emailing kiwiolckers@gmail.com Facebook: Justine Joyce Olckers - Author or Instagram: justineolckers

BELIEVE A COLLECTI ON OF POETRY AND SHOR T STORIES

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Stop Bullying: Be Proud to be you! By Justine J. Olckers When you see people being bullied or read about it, you can’t help but get this hollow feeling in your heart. The sadness engulfs us as we feel their pain. Whether it is physical or mental bullying, or even cyber bullying, it is all so bad. I decided to write this chapbook to help motivate people with low selfesteem due to bullying. To encourage people to stand up and believe in themselves. I hope in my heart that this book reaches those that have had to face the challenges of bullying and that it helps their journey a little.

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Published by eQuBe - Available on Amazon (print and eBook) Instagram: eriq_nz_author

Cul-De-Shock: A Novel

By eRiQ Quaadgras

eRiQ’s first novel focuses on the people of Kõwhatu, a small rural town in Taranaki, who wake up to a terrible tragedy in their community. When they have recovered from the initial shock, they soon realise there is more to it. A local journalist and one of the new police officers find themselves working together in order to find out what’s really going on in the cul-de-sacs.

Kindle version

ONLY U$2.99!

“Cul-de-Shock has all the elements - suspense, well defined characters, great observations of people and places, riddles, some science, great quotes and then the two seemingly separate stories (cul-de-sac murders and Bowie twins) linked together in a very clever way. Recommend this read whole-heartedly.”

SHOCK-TEA:

Book 2 the Future (Shock Trilogy 2) By eRiQ Quaadgras

Mystery, murder and a quest to deliver the mysterious ‘GITA’ USB stick. Tarquin and Maddy, the Taranaki duo, find themselves on another action-packed adventure that leads them to solving the riddles of life? The horrible events of the 2019 ‘Kõwhatu Killings had escalated Tarquin’s anxiety but with the events that unfold during this mystery, he has a chance to become more in tune with the ‘higher being’. He starts to reflect on that ‘secret’ power within. In the end, there is nothing like a cup of relaxing tea to settle your soul. “Shock-Tea is a fun sequel that brings a new case for Tarquin and Maddie. Cleverly written, connecting current real events to fiction. Not too serious despite tackling serious topics. The riddles kept me guessing and entertained throughout the story, excited for the next one. Would definitely recommend it.”

Thundering Shock

By eRiQ Quaadgras

Get ready for the explosive finale to eRiQ’s ‘Shock Trilogy’. It was the end of a crazy year for the world. It sure had been one hell of a ride for Tarquin and Maddy. When a mysterious man turns up on their doorstep he reveals more than they were prepared for. A series of events then combine the Tree of Life, Shakespeare, time travel and tarot cards to provide the answers. Tarquin believed he might see his dad again, one day. For now, he closed the curtains on the ‘unyear’ that was 2020.

NEW

eQuBe

Make sure to follow his Instagram account ( eriq_nz_author ) for more details!

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