The Fringe, February 2022

ISSUE 211, FEBRUARY 2022

community news, issues, arts, people, events

contents

Heritage facade to be preserved ...........................................................3 Keeping it local ......................................................................................4 A chance to meet the West’s makers and creators ...............................5

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Out and about: Titirangi Theatre; Folk – World – Acoustic ...................6

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Soap and toys a great combination ......................................................7 Bandstanding: Melanie – inspired by the pop-punk/emo scene .........15 Celebrate World Wetland Day ...............................................................9 Art and about with Naomi McCleary ...........................................10 – 11 Places to go: Events listing ..........................................................12 – 13 History: Toroa, the last steam ferry .............................................16 – 17

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War on Weeds returns with free bins for weed disposal ....................19 Naturally West: Kekeno – thriving on the West Coast ........................20 Weather by the moon .........................................................................21 Live @ the lounge ..............................................................................22 Advertisers’ Directory ..........................................................................23

On our cover:

These sheep, made from recycled timber were part of an innovative Christmas display produced by Karen Ric-Hansen and the team at The Crossing (Titirangi Baptist Church’s community centre). For more information see page 11. Photo by Bruce Crossan.

www.fringemedia.co.nz 21,000 copies delivered free to letter boxes, post boxes, libraries and selected outlets throughout Titirangi, Glen Eden, Green Bay, New Lynn, Kelston, Konini, Wood Bay, French Bay, South Titirangi, Waima, Woodlands Park, Laingholm, Parau, Cornwallis, Huia and Oratia.

Published by: Fringe Media Ltd, PO Box 60-469, Titirangi, Auckland 0642

Editor: Bevis England 817 8024, 027 494 0700 bevis@fringemedia.co.nz

Adver�sing:

info@fringemedia.co.nz

Features: Moira Kennedy 021 723 153 moira@fringemedia.co.nz

Got a great story idea?

Know someone we should talk to?

Writers and contributors: David Thiele, Naomi McCleary, Susannah Bridges, Fiona Drummond, Jade Reidy, Zoe Hawkins, Rob Taylor, Marlo Schorr-Kon.

Contact The Fringe by emailing info@fringemedia.co.nz

Every issue of The Fringe (and the Titirangi Tatler before it) since April 2011 is on-line at www.fringemedia.co.nz. Like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ FringeWest) to hear when each issue is available and get other updates.

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The Fringe FEBRUARY 2022

Advertising deadline for March 2022: February 11.

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our place

Heritage facade to be preserved

213 – 215 Woodlands Park Road, Titirangi, Auckland 0604 Phone: 09 817 8495 or 09 817 6188 www.kenturnermotors.co.nz

The 1925 OAG building facade is to be preserved in a new development.

Photos by Rick Mayne.

Auckland City Council has sold its Totara Avenue site in New Lynn to Kainga Ora for a mixed use development, but there is no set date yet for work to get underway.

The 2000m2 site is currently partly a car park along with the remains of the 1925 OAG Building which has fallen into a dilapidated state, but was once regarded as an iconic feature of New Lynn with its brick and ceramic work.

About a decade ago, locals fought to have the building preserved but a heritage architect ruled it was earthquake prone and too costly to save in its entirety. The buildings were then bought by the former Waitākere City Council for future redevelopment.

As part of the new development agreement, Kainga Ora says the OAG facade will be retained, forming part of the frontage of a proposed state-of-the-art nine-storey mixed-use building.

Once complete the development could include approximately 80 homes on the upper levels with commercial space on the ground floor.

Target completion is 2025.

Whau Ward Councillor, Tracey Mulholland says she’s pleased with the news which has been a long time coming.

“There’s been a lot of work behind the scenes by many people to help get this moving to achieve an agreement that now will progress, unlike previous negotiations,” she says “I, along with many others in the community, are delighted to have reached this point.

“It’s a good outcome not only for the people who will come to make this their home, but also in retaining its historical elements of the original building, a part of the history of the area will be preserved.”

Kainga Ora is the Government’s urban development agency which aims to deliver new, quality urban developments that connect homes with jobs, transport, open spaces and facilities.

The Totara Avenue site adjoins New Lynn’s transport hub, community centre, LynnMall and a wide range of retail and business operations.

Kitchen | Bathroom | Laundry Design | Supply | Install leanneharleydesign.co.nz

Your local MP Dr Deborah Russell MP for New Lynn New Lynn Electorate Office 09 820 6245 newlynn.mp@parliament.govt.nz 1885 Great North Rd, Avondale, Auckland

Authorised by Deborah Russell MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

– Moira Kennedy

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keeping it local

The Fringe is keen to help our businesses and community groups and makes space on these pages available for current advertisers and non-commercial organisations, at no charge.

To be included in our next issue, email info@fringemedia. co.nz before February 11.

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Drains CCTV – five reasons to book yours today

‘An intelligent exercise’

Invasive diagnostics are mostly a thing of the past.

Using CCTV to check your drains is a relatively inexpensive and quick process that can save you a lot in the long run, particularly when used as an on-going maintenance method.

Here are five scenarios where CCTV is great value for money.

Blocked drains: before and after repairs – Having an inspection before repairs start helps you to get information about what’s wrong and how bad it is, decide the best way to go, and compare costs and quotes. An inspection after repairs is often enough proof for insurance and warranty, and gives you the reassurance that the work done is of good quality.

Keeping things working fine – Even if you haven’t noticed anything wrong with your drainage, small cracks in pipes happen, which results in seepage and soil to enter pipes. The result? Eventually, drains empty more slowly, adding pressure and leading to bigger cracks.

CCTV inspections can also find corrosion (in metal pipes), fat build ups and roots, which could lead to complete breaks in the future if left to chance.

Buying a new home? – Just as you get the property bag and a builders’ report to know what you’re in for, a CCTV drain inspection can give you leverage to reduce the price should repairs be required, or even to pull out of the sale.

For landlords – How do you argue that a massive pipe break is due to tenants’ misuse? The footage of a CCTV inspection can give you just that evidence.

For tenants – On the other hand, if the toilets are getting blocked easily, the water in the kitchen and shower drain slowly, rooms smell funky or you hear gurgling or knocking noises, there could be an issue that needs checking. Requesting a CCTV pipe inspection in writing could be the way to go. If it shows there are issues that need addressing, the report can also be used in the event of a dispute.

If you don’t know where to start, ask the friendly team at Drain Ranger. Call 021 709 783, visit www.drainranger. co.nz or see their ad on page 23 of this issue.

Pilates is a powerful exercise method that is focussed on creating a strong and healthy body and mind. It is practiced all over the world and has attracted many people to its unique system.

Turning Tide Pilates is an award-winning Pilates studio based in Titirangi.

Founder and owner, Susan Nash says Pilates helps us to work on our balance, posture, strength, and flexibility – in a unified way. This helps us to better our overall fitness, improves our body image, lifts our posture and encourages flexibility, and can help people to manage pain.

Not only does Pilates benefit the body, but it also benefits the mind greatly as it releases endorphins, enriches the brain with oxygen, and is a mindful way to stay strong and fit.

“Pilates is an intelligent exercise,” says Susan. “It helps us to form a stronger bond with our bodies and minds as we start building strength from the inside out. As it re-wires our brains to create stronger bonds and better muscle memory, we consciously control and refine movement making better, smoother, deeper movement patterns.”

Turning Tide Pilates studio started life as a fiveyear plan in 2011 and has grown into an effective, enthusiastic and dynamic team. Susan has created a studio that is welcoming and the team is knowledgeable about the body and the Pilates method, and compassionate in its approach.

Susan has created a haven for a sweet escape and a time and place to reset and recharge. For the future, TTP will be continuing to flourish while it helps a wide range of individuals to upgrade their exercise regimes as well as take care of their mental wellbeing.

Turning Tide Pilates in Titirangi is nearly 6 years old and thriving. “We look forward to 2022, hoping for a year with no lockdowns and a great bounce back for Turning Tide Pilates,” says Susan. https://www.turningtidepilates.co.nz/

Music collective The Human Kind are to celebrate the release of their third single Find My Way in the lead up to Solacium a series of live shows launching on March 3 at The Pah Homestead, Hillsborough at 7pm The shows are a continuation of the collective’s initiative to support organisations promoting mental health in Aotearoa. 100% of the profits from the shows will be donated to the Mental Health Foundation.

Find My Way hints at the late 1970s soul-groove vibe, with the deep, smooth vocal melody of Jason Slade who then

adds a spoken word delivered in a self reflective, poetryslam style. The call of the lead vocal is answered by the rich earthy solo of Debbie Toko-Stevens, supported by the layered harmonies of Chrissy Diamond. Acoustic guitar, Rhodes keyboard and synth create a warm soulful blend and Mitch French adds the magic with his bass grooves that get your head nodding.

The song is about finding a way out of whatever is hindering progress or growth, discovering why you might be stuck, and figuring out what caused it by addressing it, accepting it, releasing it, and moving on.

The Human Kind have gained strength through their own mental health challenges and are now turning pain into purpose through their shared creative vision. Made up of professional creatives from different cultures and gender identities, The Human Kind combines live music, songs and images in audio-visual events that express the spectrum of human emotions.

The second performance in the series will be at 7pm, March 4 at The Lopdell Theatre in Titirangi.

Tickets from www.thehumankind.net/events.

The Fringe FEBRUARY 2022

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out & about

A chance to meet the West’s makers and creators

Open Studios Preview Exhibition at Lopdell House.

“This special exhibition features artwork from participating artists and is a great way to begin your Open Studios Waitākere experience. It might help you decide which of the many studios you’ll add to your list to visit over the weekend,” Renee says.

“In previous years the opening event was reserved for participating artists only, but this year we’re looking forward to the opportunity to gather everyone around and celebrate our artists and our community.”

The Open Studios Weekend takes place on February 12 and 13, 10am-4pm.

“We are very grateful to the Waitākere Ranges Local Board who fund and support the event and to Lopdell House for hosting the Open Studios Preview Exhibition,” says Renee.

Pick up a copy of the event brochure and map or contact Renee (021 149 6707 or email openstudioswaitakere@ gmail.com) to receive one in the post. Visit the event website www.openstudioswaitakere.co.nz to find out more.

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Locals will have the chance to see how many of the West’s artists work during Open Studio Weekend this month.

Thinking ahead: local body elections

Don’t look now but it is local body election year.

This year’s mayoralty contest promises to be very interesting.

win but the question is if he has sufficient resources to fund what is a very intense campaign.

Other declared candidates include Craig Mayor Goff, who in my Lord who also ran in 2019 view has managed the and finished 150,000 complex job of running the votes behind Goff, and country’s largest city very restauranteur Leo Molloy well may or may not stand. whose focus will be He has stated that he will The Waitākere Ranges Local Board Future West team are (left to “people who travel in announce his future plans in right) Mark Allen, Saffron Toms, Sandra Coney and Greg Presland. cars”.

I don’t see either of February. If rumours about a role representing the country overseas are correct then them succeeding in what is the most difficult election campaign in the country. this term may be his last.

Other progressive names who have been mentioned are former Labour leader David Shearer and current Manukau Ward Councillor Efeso Collins. My initial impression is that Shearer could struggle to adjust to what is an incredibly complex job whereas Collins knows how the super city works and, more importantly in an election, would dominate the South and the West of the city, two areas that have so far decided who the Mayor is. Collins would also be the first Samoan Mayor in the world’s largest Pacific city. He has the charisma and the intelligence to

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The right may not have a formally nominated candidate, with former and current MPs Paula Bennett, Nikki Kaye and Mark Mitchell each declaring they will not stand.

For the local board Future West will again run a ticket. It has been our privilege to have significant representation on each of the local boards elected so far. We think that the west is a special area and in need of special care and attention.

– Greg Presland Advertisement

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WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN IN THE WEST...

The annual Open Studios Waitākere event has been running for the last six years and is growing in popularity every year.

“Each year some of the most inspiring creative studios open their doors to the public, and this year we have several new studios joining in which is phenomenal,” says Renee Tanner who organises the event.

The event provides the unique opportunity for people to meet artists and makers, see art in action, purchase artwork and learn about the creative process.

Historically the West is well known as a haven for artists, and Open Studios brings that to life in a participatory way.

“Open Studios has had more than 1000 visitors for two years running, and we aim to increase that with the variety and scale on offer each time. The feedback we get is overwhelmingly positive thanks to the artists involved,“ says Renee.

Over 80 artists and 40 studios throughout the Waitākere Ranges Local Board area will be part of the weekend including sculptors, painters, jewellers, illustrators, ceramic artists and photographers, with many offering limited editions and one-off pieces.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour by using the Open Studios Waitākere App, or by picking up a copy of the event brochure and map.

“There’s also an Open Studios Bus Tour which visits a wide range of studios and includes a packed lunch, so however you want to get involved we’ve got the bases covered,” says Renee.

The event launches this year on February 8 with the

our & out place about

WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN IN THE WEST...

Well, we made it! But before I tell you what we achieved, I would like to wish all our members, supporters, patrons and interested parties, a very happy New Year, and a healthy and pandemic-free 2022.

After all the postponements and disappointments, we managed to hold auditions for Jack and the Giant Kauri Tree, and we have a cast! And, just as good, we have the makings of a great stage crew. So – we have a show!

The cast comprises actors known to our audiences, as well as several bright new faces. The part of Jack will be taken by Thoma Perin, and that of his mother, Shirley, by Karen Soulje.

Richard McFadgen will play Baron Morgan, the cat-hating villain, and Allan Howie will be the Ranger. Old favourites, Hansel and Gretel, will be played by Connor Walters and Sophie Meadows, and the kindly Jacinderella by Shaylee Edwards. Fern Capes, Taylah Jones and Sydney Gibbs will play those pesky Titirangi cats. We still have room for two billy goats, to join Connor Walters, and the plum parts of the front and back ends of Betsy the cow are still up for grabs. If you know someone who would like to be involved, do phone director Terry Rutledge on 021 260 0807 or email him on terryrutledge21@gmail.com The crew is looking pretty glam as well, with Alan J Thomson as producer/production manager, Evellen Edwards as choreographer, and Bob Jessopp as set designer. Jack and the Giant Kauri Tree opens in Titirangi Theatre, Lopdell Precinct, on March 22 and runs until April 2. Check the website for booking details.

And thanks are due, as always, to the script writers, Kerynn Walsh and Ella Bernstone.

I am sorry to announce that our drama tutor, John Goudge, is unable to continue with his classes this year. The continuing uncertainty of Covid-19 has had a marked impact on John and his students, and it seems unfair to him and his classes to start this year and then have to stop again. Hopefully, after a quiet year to regain strength and spirits, John will feel able to resume the classes next year. We would love to have him back.

In better news, I am delighted to let everyone know that our wardrobe, in the Treasure House behind Lopdell Precinct, will open for business in 2022 on Wednesday, February 9 at 4pm.

This is dependent on Auckland being on orange or green in the current ‘traffic light’ system. We will be delighted to see you there. Opening hours are Wednesday 4-6pm, Friday 5-7pm, and Saturdays 10am to midday.

Please don’t forget to keep an eye on our website www. titirangitheatre.co.nz for upcoming events, plays, auditions, stories and pictures.

– Phoebe Falconer

Auckland Council rubbish collections

Folk – World – Acoustic

With the cancellation of the Auckland Folk Festival, normally held over Auckland’s Anniversary Weekend, many musicians lost an important opportunity to perform and many locals were denied their annual fix of acoustic and world music.

Robin Kewell and Noel Jameson have stepped into the breach and organised a unique, one-off musical event to be held at the iconic Davy’s Cottage, 37, McEldowney Road, Titirangi on January 29 from 6pm. Koha (cash only) if not already sold out. Covid vaccination passes must be shown at the gate. There is a limit of 100 people at this event.

A host of local and national artists will be performing at this event including Chris Jenner, Andrew Graham, Ron Ridell, Willie Tekatoha (Arua), Danny Morris, HOOP, and Moebius Orchestra. The night will end with a late night movie on the big screen and a fireside jam.

Across the Great Divide, pictured above, are a Wellington-based lineup who have brought Americana music and Celtic spirit together into a unique world music fusion. Tony Burt’s virtuoso dobro guitar, Karen Jones’ Celtic harp, clarsach, rhythm guitar and voice are beautifully complemented by Hanna WiskariGriffiths’ saxophone. The group has performed at many of New Zealand’s premier festivals and folk clubs including Whare Flats Festival, Tui Farm Folk Festival, Wellington Folk Festival, Wellington City Council Gardens Magic Concerts, Folk by the Sea Festival (Sydney), Hamsterfest, Wellington Bluegrass Society, Titirangi Folk Muisc Club, Barebones Acoustic Folk Club, the Bunker and many other North Island folk venues. It has also released two albums Uncommon Ground in 2018 and Beyond Shadow in 2020.

From soulful Celtic airs, wild jigs and reels, to Americana and Swedish compositions, Across the Great Divide brings a new fusion of artists and instruments not normally gracing the same stage. https://www.acrossthegreatdivide.website/videos

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We provide quality, value services for our customers. We’ve worked hard to keep the prices down, but due to the Government’s increase to the Waste Levy, from Monday 31 January, we will be introducing part two of the price increase for our rubbish bags and rubbish bin tags.

New prices are set out below: Product

New RRP*

Product

New RRP*

80-litre bin tag

$ 2.85

40L rubbish bag - single

$ 1.75

120/140-litre bin tag

$ 4.25

60L rubbish bag - single

$ 2.45

240-litre bin tag

$ 6.15

60L rubbish bag - 5 pack

$ 12.25

*New RRP in place 31 January 2022.

Customers who use the Pay-As-You-Throw service do not pay rates for rubbish.

Bin tags are the only way they pay for the service.

22-PRO-0697

Thank you for your help minimising waste to landfill.

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Visit makethemostofwaste.co.nz for more information.

The Fringe FEBRUARY 2022

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people

Soap and toys a great combination Looking for a part-time job last year turned into a whole new passage of discovery for Green Bay student, Bryn Haliday, when Covid lockdown got in his way.

Bryn, 14, started searching for options on the Internet with his mother, teacher Sue Newby, when they hit on the idea of making soap and selling it online. Better still, Bryn had a clean out of small toys from his bedroom and Soap To Toy began to take shape.

The idea was to encase small toys in a bar of trasnslucent soap to encourage children to wash their hands.

Bryn and Sue realised research was key – again via the Internet. They watched videos and there was heaps of trial and error. They agree things did go wrong with their processes and there was a fair amount of robust debate but one thing led to another and soon they were on a roll.

Using a base soap (so no chemicals were needed) and adding natural colours and scents all mixed together, Bryn soon had a product to test on friends and family, especially those with young children.

Grandparents thought it was a great idea and children were super-keen to wash their hands with some intensity to get to the little toy inside.

Bryn also designed and made the packaging and labelling and as Bryn was still doing school work online, dad Bruce Haliday got in on the act too, helping source moulds, scents, colours and more little toys, and researching marketing options. Eventually they launched the product on the Internet.

Much in demand as fun and useful Christmas presents,

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Bryn reports the best selling-soaps featured unicorns for girls and Pokemon figures for boys, although there were others too. And Bryn says it’s been a buzz hearing from parents racing their kids to the sink to use the soaps.

He’s experimenting with new shapes (like balls, which are proving tricky and slow to create) but says it’s a case of “keeping on, keeping on.”

Then there are all the skills he has developed with his entrepreneurial project, including improved research skills, setting up systems for production and managing the costs.

“It’s been a big learning experience and actually making a product I can sell is great,” he says. “And family discussions over the project have improved my debating skills too!“ www.soaptotoy.com

Bryn Haliday, above, and some of his soaps, below.

– Moira Kennedy

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bandstanding: music in the west

Melanie – inspired by the American pop-punk/emo scene

Titirangi resident Robin Lusk, from local punk “They were all messaging rock band Melanie, says his band has been us saying that it’s awesome productive throughout the Covid lockdown, to have a band playing this writes Fringe guest writer MARLO SCHORRkind of music in Auckland. It KON. was just a real wholesome, “We’ve been writing and recording five new encouraging, positive song demos as well as performing an online live experience which was quite set through Facebook for Ding Dong Lounge. a surprise.”

“It was a cool learning experience setting Melanie draws the most up our own live show at home, and quite a inspiration from “the challenge trying to get the lighting right, micing American pop-punk/emo everything up so it all sounded good, as well as scene. “Joyce Manor is being able to hear the audio without it feeding Melanie are (l-r) William Dentice, Robin Davey Lusk, James Dentice always one of the first bands and Joe Gasparich. Photo by Jordan Randall Whiu. back.” that gets mentioned and The band’s first post-lockdown in-person show was also at Ding Dong other bands include Title Fight and Remo Drive. UK influences include Lounge. Robin says it’s awesome to have gigs back again, even if they stuff like Arctic Monkeys, and all sorts of poppy punky type tunes.” are seated and socially-distanced. “A small show is better than no show, Like many other bands, the Covid lockdown affected Melanie. “We anything’s better than nothing, and it was a unique and more intimate had gigs cancelled and had to put the whole live part of the band on experience. You don’t usually get to see our kind of band in a seated hold,” Robin says. “But we probably coped better than most bands. venue. Some bands try to address this by making their show more low- We’re in a fortunate position where we all live in the same flat where key, alternatively others might try and make up for the lack of audience we have recording equipment, plus we all have recording knowledge so participation and play even harder. Who knows!” we were definitely in a good position for lockdown, and getting some Robin’s favourite Melanie show was the release gig for Melanie’s new releases ready.” debut album, 42 Losers, at Whammy Backroom. “It was cool ’cause the Robin’s dream gig for Melanie would be “opening for Joyce Manor, crowd were just super into it. When we were about to start, everyone just cause they are maybe my favourite band of all time, and I think started chanting ‘Melanie! Melanie!’ and we were like ‘what’s going their live shows always look so much fun, and they’re a massive on?’ That had never happened before. influence to our sound.”

“The very, very first Melanie show ever was at my 19th birthday in Robin has always been into music. “I would be in the car trying to Bethells,” Robin recalls. “I was just organising a party for it, and I was find where the stations playing music were, and when I was at home I studying at SAE (School of Audio Engineering) at the time, and all my always wanted to listen to music. I used to get those NOW compilation mates were studying there as well. I was like ‘let’s make a band to play CDs and I discovered what I liked through those. My grandfather gave some covers’. We played 90s-2000s pop-punk like Blink-182 and stuff me my first album, American Idiot by Green Day. That really lit the like that.” flame for me.”

The band covered the iconic Stacy’s Mom by Fountains Of Wayne, Robin’s favourite Auckland venues include the old UFO premises. “It but with a twist that also led to the band’s name. “We swapped ‘Stacy’s was definitely very loose. Whammy Bar is always great, it’s such a cool Mom’ with ‘Max’s Mom’ – Max is our mate and his mum is called experience to play there – the sound system is massive, which makes Melanie, and so that’s where the name ‘Melanie’ came from. it so much fun. I’ve mixed a few shows there, so I’ve felt the full force!

“There’s this band out of Muriwai called Lookin’ Up, and Luke, their And The Ding Dong Lounge – because they have just been forever guitarist, hit me up a month or two later looking for a band to open supportive of Melanie. They’re always picking us up for shows and stuff for them at a show at Whammy Bar. We accepted of course and spent like that. They’ve really helped us grow as a band.” the next few weeks in our vocalist James’ garage where we wrote five 2022 holds much in store for Melanie. With lockdowns now ended songs and learned a couple of covers to put a set together with, so that the band has got shows booked for most weekends of January and was the inception of Melanie as a band.”

February. “We've also just finished our four-song EP, as well as two Melanie released 42 Losers in May 2020. “We got a really positive music videos which will be coming out on January 26 with a release reception, plus the album was discovered overseas. We got reviews show at Whammy Backroom on January 28.” overseas from people we’d never met or heard of before. Overall, it Instagram: @melanie.for.fun was just real positive, and we gained lots of fans from the release.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melaniebandnz

You Shop We Deliver

Shopping delivered to your door

Titirangi Supermarket 429 Titirangi Rd, Auckland, 0604

Owned & Operated by Locals

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The Fringe FEBRUARY 2022

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places to go

Celebrate World Wetland Day

At the Libraries

WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN IN THE WEST...

In November 2016 the Matuku Reserve Trust was able to buy 37 hectares of bush and wetland after an intensive fundraising campaign. The purchase ensured the safety of the wildlife in the area and forms a vital connection by linking neighbouring eco-restoration projects Ark in the Park, Habitat te Henga and the Forest & Bird reserve Matuku. Hence, the reserve was named Matuku Link.

Over 90% of New Zealand’s wetlands have been drained or filled, yet on Auckland’s doorstep is Te Henga wetland, the largest wetland in the region. Matuku Link is at the head of this wetland and consists of river flats at the foot of a large native forest block in Auckland’s Waitākere River valley. It is a home to rare wetland species such as its namesake, the matuku (Australasian bittern), puweto (spotless crake), pateke (brown teal, pictured above), freshwater fish species and native bats foraging along the river forest edge. The kauri and broadleaf forest is home to many bush birds like kereru, fantail, tui, ruru, and tomtits.

Usually visits to Matuku Link are by appointment only, for working bees, events or education, but its annual Open Day celebrating World Wetland Day is to take place on February 12, 10am-2pm and everyone is invited.

There will be guided walks, information stalls, locally-made produce and a fundraising BBQ and cake stall. The local big eels will probably show off as well.

Matuku Link is at 111 Bethells Road, Te Henga/Bethells. Please bring your vaccination certificate for scanning.

Titirangi library will be displaying a selection of 1980s vintage action figures from mid-February until mid-March, including He-Man and knock off figures. Local collector Steve will wow you with his collection including New Zealandmade toys and maybe a glow bug or two thrown in. This will be a perfect after-school treat.

Titirangi Library is also organising a special Pride Month Drag Queen Story Time to take place on Lopdell House’s rooftop terrace on Saturday 26 from 2.00pm. Join Miss Trinity Ice and Medulla Oblongata as they present stories, music and dancing that celebrate diversity and being your confident self. All ages are welcome and vaccination passes will be required.

For more information and bookings visit titirangi library/facebook Glen Eden Library is running a Rainbow Storytime on Thursday, February 10, 10:30 – 11am.

Join library staff to celebrate Pride Month with a Rainbow Storytime. Expect singing, dancing, stories and fun with the library’s Drag Queen.

Suitable for ages 2 and over.

All events listed are subject to any Governmental level change in response to Covid-19.

Photos by Stefan Marks.

WestWards Community Voice

Partnership in name only Governance is the building of rules, systems, and processes within and by which council bureaucrats run our city.

If Co Governance means elected and Iwi representatives jointly designing these guiding principles, then why as a Local Board member can’t I get to talk with my Iwi counterparts?

The term ‘co governance’ conveys an image of cooperation between people who know each other and are working sideby-side. But our WRLB interaction with iwi doesn’t work like this. All our dialogue with Iwi is conducted via bureaucratic intermediaries, the very people that are supposed to be constrained by governance directives. Board staff meet with Iwi representatives and then inform the Board what Iwi “does and doesn’t want”. And presumably iwi get told by these staff what the Local Board “will and won’t support”.

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I want a better understanding of Iwi’s opinion on matters than what I get from an appendix to staff Reports. I would like to hear first-hand from Iwi what they think about Targeted Rates, roads and footpaths, mode-shifts in public transport and cycleways. And I’d like to know when we can expect the Rāhui over the Waitākere Ranges to be lifted and will that be in part or in full. I suspect we will have lots in common.

For three years I have been asking for our Board to have scheduled, formal face-to-face talks with the persons who are Iwi’s voice. Iwi representatives have twice commented that such meetings would be good. But WRLB staff have never come through on promises of such meetings.

I will continue to request face-to-face Board participation with all community stakeholders. And that council’s bureaucracy sticks to its two core purposes. Firstly, facilitating meetings, ensuring transparent process, and supplying specialist advice to decision makers. Secondly, managing the delivery of council services in line with the democratically decided directives of Co Governance representatives.

– Ken Turner

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So why are Local Board members as a collective not getting to sit beside and talk with Iwi people in the same way as we interact with each other? Why am I denied the

opportunity to debate directly with my fellow citizens that Council recognises as representing our area’s Māori point of view.

9

art & about with naomi mccleary

Tip-toeing into 2022

“I’ve rarely seen a community arts project that was so authentic and absolutely ‘kiwi can-do’.”

Christmas decorations at The Crossing: Angels (below) and a Nativity scene (opposite).Photos by Bruce Crossan.

I’m drawn to reflecting back on the closing days of 2021. It’s a bit safer than projecting forward at this moment in time. Over our ‘Covid’ two years, I’ve more than once talked enthusiastically about a coming event or programme which simply failed to eventuate. So I’ve become a little cautious.

There are two, completely unrelated, experiences that have stayed with me through the last weeks. The first, the opening night of the Portage Ceramic Awards. Over the 20 years of the awards, opening night has been party time; a celebration of what has become New Zealand’s premier ceramics awards, but with a distinctly Westie vibe. Big numbers, wine and food, entertainment and all the glitz and glamour of winners being announced by an international judge, followed by the rush to the galleries to extol or moan about the decisions. One really prized being on the invitation list for this one; it was fun!

When director Andrew Clifford invited me in December to a hastily mounted and smaller ‘Covid version’ of the opening I was initially amazed at the courage of the team at Te Uru in attempting an alternative but meaningful event.

And it was very different; but as the evening progressed it had its own loveliness.

Starting on the roof of Lopdell House on an exquisite evening, we tentatively removed our masks to take a glass of wine and hone our socialising skills! (And have

Cut Lights Available now Te Uru 420 Titirangi Road

those got rusty!) We warmed up – and it was such a delight to see familiar faces.

Then, masks on, we progressed to the theatre for the award announcements. I think it was live-streamed but I was unaware of that. The New Zealand judge, Raewyn Atkinson, commented that it was clear from the work submitted that climate change and the pandemic was a consistent theme, sometimes implied and sometimes screamed out loud. A possibly controversial decision on the top prize; a photographic work of clay objects.

This is always one of the delights of the awards; that the judges, always significant practitioners or experts in their field, ultimately make decisions on their subjective response to the work. It spawns many a conversation.

Then, a sedate walk to the gallery and a more careful progress around the exhibition, trying to keep twometre distances and failing some of the time. The 33 pieces in the show are so very much worth a look, both for the influences as noted and for the sheer joy of the ‘love it or hate it’ experience. So this is how we dance with our new world; it takes a little practice but I’m learning the moves.

As if to drive home the shifting sands of ceramics, Antireality perversion void is in an adjoining gallery. Past McCahon artist resident, Jess Johnson, has created an immersive experience; walls painted with a nightmare mural of images drawn from horror anthologies and

Linda Cooper Linda Cooper

Councillor for Waitākere Councillor for Waitākere Please feel free to

Please feel free to contact me with contact me with issuesissues or ideas or ideas

021 629 533

021 629 533 linda.cooper@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz linda.cooper@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

susannahbridges.co.nz

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art & about with naomi mccleary

science-fiction omnibuses to enclose ceramic sculptures by individual artists working outside the ‘ceramic norm’.

If the main show doesn’t confront you, this will. I was drawn by the total concept and the perfection of the detailed walls and ceramics – and driven back by the hallucinogenic content.

Both shows continue until February 27.

When, a couple of weeks before Christmas, I drove down Kaurilands Road, I was literally stopped in my tracks by the decorations at The Crossing (the Titirangi Baptist Church’s community centre).

Decoration is not quite the right word; and here I state my personal dislike of the traditional way we decorate our homes and communities with the confused emblems of the mixed-mythologies of the festive season. I’m pretty ambivalent about draping kilometres of fairy lights over houses too.

At The Crossing, those mixed messages were still there, but expressed in the most beautiful and organic way. The site is big with a long road frontage and it was filled with traditional trees, angels, animals, biblical scenes – all made out of recycled timber offcuts. There was a lovely roughness to each unique piece, but there was definitely the sense of an overarching artistic hand there, and the whole had a connectedness that elevated each piece. Each time I drove that route I got renewed pleasure from it and started to tell friends and family to go look.

I have only now discovered the story behind this. Prior to Christmas, the staff team at The Crossing met to plan what they could do in the Covid environment to replace their usual carol-singing event.

It just so happens that one of their team, Karen RicHansen, is a successful artist in her own right. She was the guiding hand that created the plan to use the offcuts from their recent building project to tell the Christmas story. Then it became a group project involving I know not how many other church members.

The end result was a sprawling, site-wide installation of recognisable images of the nativity, a few angels and the traditional trees thrown in. I’ve rarely seen a community arts project that was so authentic and absolutely ‘kiwi can-do’. The nativity scene was my highlight; especially the grazing sheep!

Sensibly, it has been taken down now, but there are 15/11/16 plans afootFRINGEADLTD.pdf to recreate and 1expand it next 16:33 year – and a possible venture around Easter. I can’t wait.

Here is a future event that I can safely talk about!

Corban Estate Arts Centre (CEAC) is one of the participating sites for an Auckland-wide, arts trail over the summer: Whales Tales 2022.

New CEAC Director, Luana Walker, is excited about launching into 2022 with a project that is full of positivity and invites participation from all ages, is family-friendly, and has such a strong environmental message. Corban Estate is a perfect place to see their ‘tail’, by artist Lang Ea. Take a picnic and visit the homestead galleries or Studio Café.

Whales Tales 2022 will take place until April 18. It is a trail of unique and stunning whale tail sculptures, designed by well-known and emerging kiwi artists and schools, and sponsored by businesses and organisations. The trail will animate Tāmaki Makaurau and bring to life themes of protecting and restoring the mauri of our ocean.

Featuring 80 Big Broos (large Tail sculptures) and 80 Pēpi (mini-Tail sculptures), the Tails – inspired by the endangered Bryde’s whale – will tell the “tales” of our moana and how we all have a part to play in sustaining a healthy ocean.

When the trail ends, the mini-Tails will be returned to schools to enjoy, and the large Tails will be auctioned to raise funds for WWF-New Zealand’s vital work to protect and restore the Hauraki Gulf/ Tikapa Moana/Te Moananui-à-Toi. For further information, maps and a programme of events and activities, go to https:/whaletales2022. org.nz.

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11

places to go

WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN IN THE WEST...

Event organisers:

Do you have an upcoming event you’d like listed in The Fringe? Send the details, including a contact person and number, to info@fringemedia. co.nz.

Readers:

While we take care to ensure listings are correct, errors may occur. Check with the contact person wherever possible.

collective; Corban Estate Arts Centre, 2 Mount Lebanon Lane, Henderson. Phone 838 4455

the mobile library bus, and live entertainment; Craigavon Park; from 11am. (Rain day February 27.)

w – 20, Kōtiro, Emepaea, the first major solo exhibition

by George Watson (Ngāti Porou, Moriori, Ngāti Mutunga); Te Uru, 420 Titirangi Road. Phone 817 8087.

w

– 20, Stars start falling, Teuane Tibbo’s paintings from the 1960s and 1970s ‘in conversation’ with work made by Ani O’Neill in 1999 and new commissions by Salome Tanuvasa; Te Uru, 420 Titirangi Road. Phone 817 8087.

w

w – 27, Portage Ceramic Awards, 33 contemporary ceramic works from artists across Aotearoa; Te Uru, 420 Titirangi Road. Phone 817 8087.

12, Titirangi Folk Music Club presents Beverley Young, floorsingers in first half; Titirangi Beach Hall, bottom of Titirangi Beach Road; 8pm; $12, members $8, under 18 free. www.titirangilivemusic.co.nz or text Cathy on 021 207 7289.

w 12 – March 12, Between the tides, ceramics by Kairava Gullatz and oil paintings by Stefanie Kroeger; West Coast Gallery, Seaview Road, Piha; Thu/Fri 10am-2pm, Sat/Sun 10am-4pm. Phone 812 8029. www.westcoastgallery.co.nz 15, SeniorNet West Auckland, speaker, morning tea and chatting about computers; RSA Henderson, Poppy Restaurant, 66-70 Railside Avenue, Henderson; 10am.

Phone June 021 179 3635.

w

w – 27, Antireality perversion void, a ceramics exhibition curated and designed by Jess Johnson; Te Uru, 420 Titirangi Road. Phone 817 8087.

w

All events and gatherings in these listings will require full compliance with relevant Covid regulations. Masks, vaccination passes and scanning the Covid QR codes (or logging in) will be required.

– 27, The moon was talking, Edith Amituanai MNZM presents a series of portraits made in collaboration with Year 11 art students at Kelston Girls College; Te Uru, 420 Titirangi Road. Phone 817 8087.

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January 29, Folk-World-Acoustic, a day of music featuring a host of local and New Zealand artists; Davy’s Cottage, 37 McEldowney Road, Titirangi; 2pm onwards; $30/$20 at the gate, if not sold out. Text bookings to 0210 222 5558.

w 8, West Auckland Historical Society Family History Group meeting; Henderson Central Library West Auckland Research Centre; 10-11.30am. Phone Gary Snow 832 5098, 021 618 434 or email gary@snofam.co.nz.

Covid precautions:

w

January 30, Titirangi Village Market: art, craft, produce and music; Titirangi War Memorial Hall; 10am-2pm. Contact Tess on tvm.manager@gmail.com or phone 022 631 9436.

w

february w – 7, Paintings from the pandemic, oil paintings by Zeke Wolf; West Coast Gallery, Seaview Road, Piha; Thu/ Fri 10am-2pm, Sat/Sun 10am-4pm. Phone 812 8029. www.westcoastgallery.co.nz w

– 13, The Maxx Dose, works by a graffiti and artist

w

w 6, Pony Rides, Huia Road Horse Club; 436B Huia Road, Laingholm; 3-4pm; $5 per child per ride. Phone 027 499 1732.

w 11, Ladies’ Probus Club, fellowship, fun, speakers, and a monthly day trip; St John’s Hall, Te Atatū South; 9.45am-Noon. Phone Betty 09 832 0484. w 11, West Auckland Men’s Rebus Club, guest speaker and morning tea; Friendship Hall, 3063 Great North Road, New Lynn; 10am-12noon. Phone Laurie 820 2234.

11, Flicks Outdoors presents a film to be confirmed; Davy’s Cottage, 37 McEldowney Road Titirangi; 8.15pm; Limited tickets available. Enquiries to 0210 222 5558 or email robinkewell@xtra.co.nz.

w

12, Pride Family Picnic in the Park, a fun-filled picnic day with bouncy castles, face-painting, craft activities,

w

18, Flicks presents a film to be confirmed; Lopdell Theatre, Lopdell House, Titirangi; 10.30am, 6pm and 8.15pm. Enquiries to 0210 222 5558 or email robinkewell@xtra.co.nz.

21, Henderson Falls Combined Friendship Club – fun, friendship and fellowship with monthly speakers and frequent outings; Henderson Bowling Clubrooms, 2/20 Alderman Drive, Henderson; 10am-noon. Contact Joy 837 4646 or 021 267 3544.

22, Titirangi U3A – meet interesting people 60-years and older; West Lynn Garden, 73 Parker Avenue, New Lynn; 1pm. Contact 818 8809, 027 699 5480 or heathertanguay@slingshot.co.nz.

w

22, An Evening with GALS Rainbow Choir. Auckland’s premier rainbow community choir celebrate its 30th anniversary with a selection of choral classics; New Lynn Community Centre, Totara Avenue, New Lynn; 7.308.30pm; Free.

w

25, Glen Eden Combined Probus Club: company and fellowship, interesting speakers, morning tea and monthly outings; Ceramco Park Function Centre, 120 Glendale Road, Kaurilands; 9.45am. Phone Brian Holt 838 5857.

w

25, Titirangi Folk Music Club presents Friday Folk, an informal gathering of musicians and singers; Titirangi

w

Welcome to The Fringe for 2022. We are looking forward to continuing to support our community and to providing interesting and informative content. What do you enjoy reading? What would you like to see more of in the magazine? Let us know by emailing info@fringemedia.co.nz.

We also remain committed to supporting our local businesses. Please let us know how we can help you.

Have you thought you could be a good writer? We’d love to hear from you ...

The booking deadline for bookings for our March 2022 issue is February 11 with finished artwork due by February 15. Please let us know your requirements as soon as possible.

Contact us at info@fringemedia.co.nz.

12

The Fringe FEBRUARY 2022

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places to go

l WHERE IT’S AT: 27, Titirangi Village Market: art, craft, produce and music; Titirangi War Memorial Hall; 10am-2pm. Contact Tess on tvm.manager@gmail.com or phone 022 631 9436.

w

march March 6, Pony Rides, Huia Road Horse Club; 436B Huia Road, Laingholm; 3-4pm; $5 per child per ride.

Phone 027 499 1732.

w

March 6, Jazz on the Roof with Toby and the Rest and guests; Lopdell House rooftop, Titirangi; 3-5pm; Tickets $20/$15 concessions/$10 under 14). Bookings on 0210 222 5558.

w

March 6, March. 8pm SEAWEEK MOVIE NIGHT; Lopdell House rooftop, Titirangi; 8pm; Free. For details go to .www.flickscinema.weebly.com or e-mail robinkewell@ xtra.co.nz.

w

There is so much happening in and around our community, including many weekly events, that we can’t fit everything into these listings. To find out more about whatever you are interested in, visit:

www.fringemedia.co.nz/ourplace

• Corban Estate Arts Centre, 2 Mount Lebanon Lane, Henderson; 10am-4.30pm daily. 838 4455, www.ceac.org.nz.

• EcoMatters Environment Trust, 1 Olympic Place, New Lynn; Wednesday – Sunday, 10am-2pm. 826 4276, info@ecomatters.org.nz.

• Flicks cinema, Titirangi Theatre, Lopdell House.

818 2489, www.flickscinema.weebly.com.

• McCahon House Museum, 67 Otitori Bay Road, Titirangi; Wednesday – Sunday, 1-4pm, except public holidays. 817 6148, mccahon@ mccahonhouse.org.nz.

• Playhouse Theatre, 15 Glendale Road, Glen Eden.

818 5751.

• Te Toi Uku – Clay Works, 8 Ambrico Place, New Lynn; Wednesday – Friday, 10am-4pm, Saturday 10am-3pm. Phone 827 7349, www. portageceramicstrust.org.nz.

• Te Uru Waitākere Contemporary Gallery, 420 Titirangi Road, Titirangi; Tuesday – Sunday, 10am-4.30pm. 817 8087, info@teuru.org.nz.

• Titirangi Theatre, Titirangi Theatre, Lopdell House; Titirangi. 817 5812, infoline 817 5951, www.titirangitheatre.co.nz.

• Upstairs Gallery, Level 1, Lopdell House, 418 Titirangi Road; Tuesday – Sunday, 10am-4pm, 817 4278, www.upstairs.org.nz.

• West Coast Gallery, Seaview Road, Piha; Thursday/Friday, 10am-2pm; Saturday/Sunday, 10am-4pm. 812 8029, www.westcoastgallery. co.nz.

NEW DATE Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 February 10am–4pm Visit some of Waitākere’s most celebrated artists including sculptors, painters, jewellers, illustrators, ceramic artists and photographers.

d e l l nce

With over 80 artists involved, and 40 studios from Piha to Glen Eden, Titirangi to Te Henga, it’s an inspiring weekend out and about.

Ca

Take a self-guided tour at your own pace with our Open Studios Map and mobile App, or jump on an Open Studios Bus Tour.

For more information visit

openstudioswaitakere.co.nz or find us on Facebook and Instagram.

Proudly supported by

Studio Reformer Pilates Strength Posture Flexibility

19 The Grove, Titirangi https://turningtidepilates.co.nz 0272325051

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WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN IN THE WEST...

Beach Hall, bottom of Titirangi Beach Road; 8pm; $5. www.titirangilivemusic.co.nz or text Cathy on 021 207 7289.

Mid-Year Update.

It has been an interesting first six months to the financial year that can be summed up by the three Cs of: • COVID • Challenging • Collaboration We have noted significant year on year financial improvement in the operating business despite the impact of COVID. Great credit must go to our people who have performed extremely well through the difficult COVID lockdowns in August and September.

This is all the more pleasing when hospitality closures and reduced trading at Quality Hotel Lincoln Green have significantly impacted our business performance.

We have had many highlights and challenges in the first six months of the financial year.

Our highlights include the launch of our first Liquorland franchise, a new retail store in Hobsonville as well as the adoption of the Living Wage for our team. The August lockdown delivered the biggest challenge, but the experience of previous lockdowns allowed us to adapt quickly and as seamlessly as possible whilst keeping everyone’s safety paramount.

We have also completed a significant piece of work on our Trusts’ brand, which began at the start of the financial year. Our aim is to better

1 | Chair & CEO Mid-Year Report 2021

14

The Fringe FEBRUARY 2022

inform, so the community understands the asset they all own. We want to increase our awareness and connection to the community and acknowledge we have often been criticised for being an out-of-date concept.

The new branding slogan of “Keeping it Local” is an evolution that reflects the aspirations of our organisation, and we will use it to communicate in a more compelling and

relevant way.

1/2 Year to Date - September 2021 FY22* $000

FY21 $000

Income

$63,273

$52,760

Expenses

$60,842

$53,316

EBITDAI

$2,431

- $556

EBITDAI %

3.8%

- 1.1%

Operating EBIT

$1,551

- $1,593

Operating EBIT %

2.5%

- 3.1%

Dividends Received

$39

$45

Equity Investment Revaluation

$1,122

$2,538

Support West

$1,000

$775

- $3

$7,464

$1,708

$9,424

Description

Gain/(Loss) on Sale of Asset EBIT

*Please note these results are unaudited.

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Community Support

The Future

At the start of this financial year, we launched our largest ever sponsorship programme of over $500k for fantastic events, sports, cultural and community initiatives. We had several new sponsorships in the pipeline to support great projects, including the Portage Ceramic Awards, NZ’s premier ceramic art competition, as well as a partnership with Everybody Eats to sponsor their new restaurant in Avondale. We also sponsored Vision West’s Winter Warmers fundraising campaign to keep vulnerable families warm this winter. With the lockdown, there have been some inevitable changes to the programme, and we have had to adapt to better suit our sponsees. For example, we changed the sponsorship of school prize givings to allow schools to use the money for any purpose they saw fit and we increased support for Christmas initiatives knowing many will find Christmas especially hard this year.

We are pleased that despite our challenges, we have been able to deliver many of the projects we set out to advance last year, but the aim of all that we do is to be:

In August, we launched our first Your West Support Fund for this year. We increased the original budget of $500k to $1 million as a result of excellent trading conditions in our first quarter. Due to the lockdown, we extended the application period and received a record number of applications – 259 in total for over $6.6 million. This made for some extremely difficult decisions, and our Elected Members prioritised operational funding for local community organisations to keep them going through lockdown.

• A high performing, community-owned organisation • Well respected and understood • Providing high community returns There is still much work to do but with COVID lockdowns hopefully behind us, we will become a far more efficient, cost-effective and profitable organisation as we further develop our operational and company strategies for the future. The by-product of our success will be the increased support that we can deliver back to our communities from our Your West Support Fund and sponsorship.

We have much to thank our team members for, including their hard work, commitment and good old-fashioned grit and determination as we worked through some times of high stress and uncertainty. We have a fantastic team of people at The Trusts. Operationally and commercially, we have matured over the last year with some strong results providing evidence of this change in thinking.

130

community organisations received a share of $1,000,000 of funding from The Trusts.

Tim Livingstone MNZM

Allan Pollard MBA, MInstD

Chairman

Chief Executive

December 2021

2 | Chair & CEO Mid-Year Report 2021

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December 2021

The Fringe FEBRUARY 2022

15

history

Toroa, the last steam ferry

Readers will be familiar with decked, ‘double-ended’ the large rustic wooden vessel screw steam passenger beside of the motorway by ferries to be built – the the Selwood/Lincoln Road first was the Albatross in turn off. It has been there for 1904 and Toroa is Māori some years and has become for albatross. something of a motorway ‘Double-ended’ here landmark. You could be means having a propeller, forgiven for thinking that the rudder and wheelhouse at vessel, the Toroa (the last both ends, reversing the of Auckland’s steam ferries) whole ship for the return is languishing with nothing run so as not to waste happening, but nothing could time or space in turning, be further from the truth, especially in the crowded writes FIONA DRUMMOND. basin below the Ferry The Toroa is being brought Building on Quay Street. back to life and seaworthiness Until her retirement in – from the inside out.

August 1980 the Toroa Toroa heading for Devonport in early morning haze, 1969. The stoker has been working The Toroa is the last of the perhaps too hard, hence the smoke from the funnel and the steam from the safetyserved the North Shore, great succession of steam valve vent pipe. The photo also shows the froth from the pulling propeller under the sharing the Auckland ferries that worked the Devonport end and the clean wake from the well-shaped hull. Photo © Barry Davis. to Devonport run with Waitematā Harbour for 120 years, beginning with the paddle-steamer Makora. The two ferries carried 20,000 or more passengers a day at Emu in July 1860 and ending with the last scheduled voyage of the the peak of the service before the opening of the Auckland Harbour Toroa in August 1980.

Bridge in 1959. Toroa ended her working life and was laid up in 1980 The ship was built in Auckland by George Turnbull Niccol for the when her certificate of survey expired after 55 years of service, having Devonport Steam Ferry Company and was launched on April 28, 1925. carried more than 70 million passengers.

She was of composite construction, planked in heart kauri over a The vessel’s restoration is now in the hands of a group of dedicated riveted steel skeleton. Her machinery, including boiler, triple-expansion volunteers from the Toroa Preservation Society, with specialist engine, condenser, pumps, valves, pipework, propeller shafts and contractors hired as needed for particular aspects of the project. propellers, was fabricated in Clydebank in Scotland, once one of the Steelwrights, shipwrights, engineers and heritage practitioners have major ship-building centres of the world. She was the last of eight two- supplemented the range of skills and experience of the volunteers, from steam and marine engineering to woodworking, and general handicraft skills. Volunteers are mainly from West Auckland and the North Shore, with one from as far as Aotea Great Barrier Island.

Among these dedicated volunteers is Titirangi resident Peter McCurdy, who prepared the conservation plan for the ferry, and carries out design work and much of the fundraising. Peter’s association with boats started when he was two years old, boarding the old SS Wairua (also built by George Niccol) at Bluff to cross to Stewart Island. His grandparents owned a crib there, along with a clinker-built doubleended launch left at the Island by the Norwegian whalers who wintered in Paterson Inlet for 10 years before the War. Trained as a civil engineer, Peter later became the first curator at the new maritime museum at Hobson Wharf, one of the small team working with the director, the late Rodney Wilson, who established the museum. Peter got involved with the Toroa shortly before she was 19th-century shipbuilding reinvented for the 21st: bevelling a new bulbangle frame. Photo by P.J. McCurdy. brought ashore.

This space is being seen by up to 70,000 local residents. It could be yours for as little as $240 + GST, or 0.34 cents per reader.

Email info@fringemedia.co.nz or phone 817 8024 to find out more.

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The Fringe FEBRUARY 2022

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history

Peter outlines the vision of the A kilometre of special bulbPreservation Society for the vessel: angle steel is now incorporated in “The Toroa is being restored to the ribs. A third of a kilometre of authentic, seaworthy condition, to steel main-deck beams, 200 square operate again on the Waitematā – metres of steel plate-&-angle in steam – as a heritage excursion bulkheads fastened with 10,000 ferry. She will operate much as the rivets, and most of the large durable Earnslaw does on Lake Wakatipu, timbers for critical components carrying locals and visitors alike has been acquired and timber for as a floating, working museum less critical components is steadily demonstrating the slow, breathing accumulating, much of it donated. power of steam machinery, and The triple-expansion steam connecting with the built and engine has been rebuilt and other environmental heritage of the Renewed bulb-angle frames and riveted bulkheads aft of the engine machinery restored. The two Harbour and the inner Hauraki Gulf. room. Photo by P.J. McCurdy. wheelhouses have been restored She will also serve as a function venue and the perfect grandstand for and one of them refitted with gear and fittings. The main-deck cabins Auckland’s Anniversary Regatta.” have been refurbished outside, and the Ladies Cabin, at the Devonport The conventional twin-furnace fire-tube marine boiler which end, has also been refurbished inside. provided the steam for the Toroa engine was coal-powered but with Renewing the steel skeleton of the hull required relearning and climate change, fossil fuel will not be viable, or available. The boiler reinventing 19th-century ship-building techniques, mostly obsolete – will be wood fired in the future, burning forestry slash or, even better, hot-bending the heavy bulb-angle steel, and hot-riveting steel plate kanuka and/or manuka from a sustainable plantation. The latter burn and angle. The bulb angle, itself an obsolete section, had to be specially with a hot flame and produce much less smoke, tar and ash than coal made, in a factory in Yorkshire where iron plate for Victorian ships had or radiata slash. What ash there is can be used in agriculture. The once been produced.

Toroa’s original riveted boiler will be replaced by the similar but much The hull was very fragile and floppy to begin with but after jacking it younger welded boiler salvaged from the floating steam crane Rapaki back into shape, corroded frames were replaced with new ones, one or which was scrapped to make way for America’s Cup developments. two at a time so as not to lose the shape or the strength. Work started Of the approximately $2 million funding raised to date, most has in the middle of the hull, developing the technique where the shape been put to the renewal of the steel skeleton of the hull and the was straight forward, then progressing towards the ends with tight and acquisition of the very large baulks of timber needed for planking and reverse curvature and bevelling to fit inside the old planking.

Continued on page 21 >> backbone renewal.

Merger of West Auckland Law Firms We are pleased to announce the merger of David J Brown & Associates (lawyers in Titirangi) with Thomas & Co Lawyers Limited (lawyers in New Lynn).

Thomas & Co already incorporates the practice of Ray Ganda (Titirangi Law Centre) from a merger in 2017. The original principals of the three practices, Ray, David and Don, have many years of experience working in West Auckland.

The David J Brown & Associates team – Paula Fletcher, Legal Executive, Jaimee KirbyBrown, Lawyer and Danielle Norrie, Lawyer - join the merged team to continue to assist all their existing clients as well as the clients of the merged practices. See the “Our Team” tab on the website for the whole team.

Our focus on service for our community and clients is behind the merger. The directors and staff of the combined practices can now offer an even wider range of skills and resources. This means we can meet your every legal requirement. There is always someone available with the necessary knowledge and experience to assist with any legal matters that might arise.

Give us a call, or come in and visit us. We welcome enquiries and are happy to answer any questions.

Details of our office location and on-site parking can be found under the “Contact” tab on our website. We have lift access and are also handy to the bus/train interchange. This means that visiting our office is easy and convenient.

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17

WORST WEEDS WATCHLIST

Have you spotted these in your backyard? Pest plants have a real ecological impact when they jump the garden fence and smother our forests and streams. Keeping them at bay means that native plants and birds can flourish.

CLIMBING ASPARAGUS

MOTH PLANT

WILD GINGER

Smothers the forest floor and prevents growth of native plants. Climbing plant with small, thin leaves, white flowers and green berries that ripen to orange/ red. For small amounts, dig out tubers, rhizomes and seeds & rot in a water barrel or dispose in community weed bins. Try to remove before seeding occurs. Large infestations may require herbicide.

Strangles native plants and is a prolific seeder. Noxious woody vine with white sap and large green pods bearing up to 1000 seeds. Wear gloves when removing pods and dispose of in community weed bins. Pull out young plants at the root, or cut woody stumps and apply herbicide.

Avoid skin contact - sap is an irritant.

Quickly forms dense stands that prevents native plants from growing. Cut off seed heads and dispose at community weed bins. Green stems and leaves can be left to compost. If rhizomes can be removed without causing erosion, dig out and rot in water barrels or dispose in community weed bins. If leaving rhizomes in the ground, cut stems at base and paste immediately with herbicide.

WOOLLY NIGHTSHADE

JASMINE

TRADESCANTIA

Quickly forms dense stands that prevent native plants from growing. Small shrubs grow into large trees with furry grey/green leaves, purple flowers and green fruit turning yellow when ripe. Dig or pull out small plants or cut and paste large trees with herbicide. Remove seeds and dispose of in community weed bins.

Grows densely and smothers native plants on the ground and in the subcanopy.

Evergreen climber with tough stems, dark green leaves, red/pink flower buds and white, five-petalled flowers. Cut vines and leave upper stems to die in trees, alternatively dig out roots. Rot down in a water barrel or dispose in community weed bins.

Forms dense mats preventing native plants from growing, and will regrow from stem fragments. Rake up or pull out all pieces and compost in a weed bag, or dispose of in community weed bin.

For large infestations or more detailed information, visit https://pestsearch.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz To prevent the spread of kauri dieback, refrain from removing weeds from around the root zones of kauri.

Those who live in the Waitākere Ranges Local Board area can dispose of invasive weeds free of charge at the community weed bins: www.ecomatters.org.nz/weed-bins

18

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our place

War on Weeds returns with free bins for weed disposal Invasive weeds can be a source of grief, but from February 22 to March 31, local residents will be able to dispose of them for free. Funded weed bins are coming back for the annual War on Weeds, thanks to support from the Waitākere Ranges and Henderson-Massey local boards and Auckland Council.

“We’re very excited. This is a golden opportunity for everyone to scan their backyard for pest plants, save money on disposal, and help keep them out of our shared forest, parks and reserves,” says Mel Ward from EcoMatters Environment Trust, who manages the bins.

Invasive weeds accepted at the 15 bin locations include wild ginger, moth plant, tradescantia, Japanese honeysuckle, jasmine, climbing asparagus, woolly nightshade and more. These are all species that are known to smother and disrupt native ecosystems.

“Moth plant is one to look out for, because their infamous pods are visible around this time. Pods can contain up to a thousand seeds that get dispersed far and wide by the wind, so it sometimes shows up in unexpected places. Our team spotted some in Karekare this summer, which was an unusual find for the area,” Mel says.

This year’s War on Weeds will be accompanied by a series of community conversations called the Pest Plant Roadshow.

“If you want to find out which weeds you should bin, bag, or put in a barrel, come along for a chat with the EcoMatters team. We’ll be sharing tips on weed identification and control, and other resources for weeders,” says Mel. The Pest Plant Roadshow will be running from 10am-1pm at Huia Domain, Huia Road on Saturday, March 19; Laingholm Hall carpark, 69 Victory Road on Sunday, March 20; Kōwhai Reserve carpark, 28 Withers Road on Saturday, March 26; and Waiatarua Hall carpark, 911 West Coast Road on Sunday 27 March The series is supported by the Waitākere Ranges Local Board and Auckland Council.

For more information visit www.ecomatters.org.nz/ war-on-weeds.

EcoMatters’ Mel Ward with one of the weed bins, soon to be available at 15 locations in the West.

There’s a group for you ...

Have you ever wanted to get involved in improving your local community?

Perhaps you’re concerned about controlling vermin in your neighbourhood, or maybe you’d like to attract more native birds to your garden.

There’s an estimated 70 community groups working to improve the local environment and control weeds and pests, and they’re having fun doing it.

Whether you can help with advocacy, education or fundraising; baiting, trapping or monitoring; working in a plant nursery, weeding or planting; cleaning beaches, environmental protection or sustainability, there’s a group for you. Some groups focus on specific pests such as wasps and some are only open to close neighbours.

The Pest Free Waitākere Ranges Alliance has been working to identify these groups and their contact details and has created a web resource cataloguing and categorising each group. Visit https://www.pfwra.org.nz/find-yourpeople/?page=1 to find the group for you.

FREE BINS FOR PEST PLANTS AVAILABLE 22 FEBRUARY – 31 MARCH 2022

For more info on weed bins and Pest Plant Roadshow events visit ecomatters.org.nz/war-on-weeds

HENDERSON-MASSEY LOCAL BOARD 1 HENDERSON MPHS carpark, 27 Corban Ave 2 TE ATATŪ PENINSULA 580 Te Atatū Rd 3 MASSEY Massey Leisure Centre, corner Westgate Dr and Don Buck Rd 4 SWANSON Central Landscape Supplies, 598 Swanson Rd WAITĀKERE RANGES LOCAL BOARD 5 LAINGHOLM Laingholm Hall carpark at 69 Victory Rd, opposite Laingholm Primary School 6 PARAU 695 Huia Rd 7 KAURILANDS Konini Primary School, 44 Withers Rd 8 TE HENGA Regional Park carpark, next to 110 Te Henga Rd 9 TITIRANGI Otitori Bay Rd, French Bay carpark 10 TITIRANGI Tangiwai Reserve carpark, Huia Rd PERMANENT WEED BINS PERMANENT WEED BINS 11 WAIMA Corner of Boylan Rd and York Rd PIHA DOMAIN Seaview Road 12 WAIATARUA Waiatarua Hall, 911 West Coast Rd PIHA DOMAIN Seaview Rd 13 HENDERSON VALLEY 17 Mountain Rd HUIA DOMAIN Huia Rd HUIA DOMAIN Huia Road Proudly supported by

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The Fringe FEBRUARY 2022

19

naturally west with fiona drummond

Kekeno – thriving on the West Coast Once their numbers were decimated for seal fur for the commercial fashion industry, but kekeno, the New Zealand fur seal, our most numerous seal species, is no longer classified as threatened.

However, all has not been well for kekeno on the Waitematā Harbour this spring. The Friends of the Hauraki Gulf newsletter recently reported that a total of 74 dead seal pups had been found over the season on

Kekeno: more prevalent than ever on West Coast beaches.

20

Waiheke Island and North Shore beaches, an alarming number in the eyes of local residents. Authorities have been somewhat dismissive, as they have no recorded baseline data from other years to compare and the species are not threatened so are not a priority species for the Department of Conservation. It is suspected that the reason for the deaths is likely to be starvation, and DOC will endeavour to do post mortem work to learn more.

Friends of the Hauraki Gulf is supporting investigations into the cause too, seeing the mass die-off as a clear signal from the natural world that all is not well in the Hauraki Gulf. Local conservationist Shaun Lee has been asking people to send him locations and photographs of dead seal pups so he can build a picture of frequency. He can be contacted at shaun@stet.co.nz.

The good news is that sightings of kekeno are more prevalent than ever on the Manukau Harbour’s rocky platforms and beaches, especially out towards the Heads, and more frequently on West Coast beaches, and in locations such as The Gap at Piha.

Unlike larger seals, kekeno can be identified by their external ear flaps and hind flippers which rotate forward meaning they can move quickly on land. In fact, DOC recommend giving them a 20-metre berth as they can catch a person running and inflict a nasty bite on the calves.

Kekeno are quite small, the female being only 1.5 metres in length and weighing 20-50 kg and the male 2.5 metres and 90-150 kg. They start to breed at about six years. The males are polygamous and mate with many females in the breeding season between mid

The Fringe FEBRUARY 2022

November and mid January. The females can mate only days after giving birth, but kekeno use a method called delayed implantation meaning the fertilised egg doesn’t implant for about three months and gestation is nine months, giving a year gap between pups.

Pups are fed milk for at least a year, and start to feed on solid food before weaning, spending a large proportion of their day playing with other pups and objects such as seaweed and reef fish, thereby attaining skills for later life (such as foraging, anti-predator behaviour and also social behaviour) during this period.

Females alternate foraging trips (periods of up to 20 days at sea) to feed, with attendance periods of 1-2 days when they are at the breeding colony to suckle the pup. As the year goes on and the pups grow, the females take longer and longer foraging trips.

During spring most pups are weaned and disperse. Juvenile fur seals have been found over 1000 kilometres from their place of birth.

Kekeno can dive to 240 metres in search of prey but usually feed at night when fish are nearer the surface. They can stay underwater for up to 11 minutes.

They feed mainly on squid and small mid-water fish but also take larger species such as conger eels, barracuda, jack mackerel and hoki.

They are very sociable animals with their own kind, fraternising in non-breeding groups and forming colonies when they breed. Kekeno are also noisy - the males vocalising their territorial rights and the females calling for their pups.

Seal observation squad volunteers

Each year Department of Conservation rangers train volunteers with the intention that they will follow up on reports of injured or distressed seals and report back to DOC if action is required.

The volunteer role requires a driver’s licence and good communication skills as it involves talking to members of the public about seal behaviour, and site management which involves taking photos and putting up signage if called to a seal location. Volunteers will record and report on behaviour, keeping a log of seal activity in the designated area.

Volunteers are not expected to handle or re-locate any seals, just report their behaviour to DOC. It is anticipated that volunteers may spend up to three hours a week responding to calls throughout the winter/seal haul out season when seals are more land-based for body temperature regulation, moulting, mating and breeding.

In the West, volunteers are required for locations at Cornwallis, Huia, Titirangi-Hillsborough, Piha, Te Henga/ Bethells and Muriwai. Applications for the June to October season this year open in May 2022.

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history >>

Toroa, the last steam ferry, continued from page 17 All the specialist skills and materials to complete the restoration are now available but around $5 million is still required to finish the hull, superstructure and machinery, along with the necessary testing, survey and certification. With a steady $1 million a year in funding the Toroa could be back on the water in five years. More volunteers would also speed things up and spread the load.

It will be a privilege to see this historic ferry back on the Waitematā. If you can assist in any way, contact the Society via the website www.steamferrytoroa.com or email crew@steamferrytoroa.com.

The refurbished Ladies Cabin, with some of the characteristic slatted wooden seating installed – comfortable enough for 12 or 15 minutes across the Harbour and just about tolerable all the way to Drunken Bay and back on a Rangitoto-Motutapu excursion. The similar cabin at the other end was the Smoking Cabin – in those days Ladies did not smoke. Photo: P.J. McCurdy

Rivets were heated to nearly white heat in a gas forge, inserted in pre-drilled holes and headed over with a pneumatic hammer instead of the original hammers wielded by Ponsonby Irishmen.

The Toroa has four new name-boards, mounted on the upper bulwarks at each quarter. Of the original boards, one was gifted to the Society by the family of the engineer on the last voyage, one is held by the last commercial owners, another probable one is in West Auckland, and the whereabouts of the fourth is unknown. Quite a few items from the Toroa that have been in private hands since she stopped work have been gifted to the Society and it is hoped that more will reappear as restoration nears completion.

The major grants for the restoration have been from the Lottery Grants Board, the ASB Community Trust (now working as Foundation North) and The Trusts Community Foundation. There have been many other grants, including from the St Lazarus Trust, and donations and bequests, many from individuals. Many local firms, including Selwood Coatings, Bunnings and Mitre 10 have also provided support.

A skipper of the future in one of the refurbished wheelhouses. Photo: R.L Mason

Soft plastic recycling is back

If your soft plastic for recycling has been piling up over the recent extended lockdown, you’ll be pleased to know that collection bins have been reinstated at a number of local locations including Countdown in Lynfield and LynnMall, and New World and Huckleberry in New Lynn. For information about what can and can’t be recylced visit https://www.packagingforum.org.nz/softplastics-recycling-programme/.

Among the users of recycled soft plastics is Future Post, a fence post manufacturer which is struggling to keep up with demand for its posts. The posts, which last a lifetime, are gaining popularity for vineyards and as they don’t leach chemicals, they are approved for use on organic farms. As well as being 100% recycled and recyclable, they are as strong as a timber post.

weather by the moon Ken Ring’s predictions for February February is fine for the first and third weeks but may be wet for the second and fourth week.

Overall, expect a wetter, cloudier month than average, with temperatures close to normal. The barometer may average around 1012mbs, with highest pressures in the first week and lowest pressures in the last week. Heavy rain is expected around the 11th - 13th. The 8th may be the day with highest temperatures and the start of the warmest week. The best weekend for outdoor activities may be the 19th/20th.

For fishermen, the highest tides are around the 3rd. The best fishing bite-times in the West are around noon on the 1st-2nd and 16th-18th. Chances are also good for around dusk on the 8th-11th, and 23rd-25th.

For gardeners, planting is best (waxing moon ascending) between the 14th-16th, and pruning on the 28th (waning moon descending).

For preserving and longer shelf-life, pick crops or flowers on neap tide days of the 12th and 25th.

Always allow 24 hour error for all forecasting. For future weather for any date, visit www.predictweather.com. © Ken Ring 2021.

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21

live @ the lounge

163 years later we’ve come up with the electric car. Now that’s progress.

Yeah gidday or Kia Ora. Sweet. Phew. Who knew? It’s 2022. True!

I took my black, Proud to be a Westie tee-shirt off for 20 minutes the other day and ended up as pink as a pitbull pup’s tongue. Careful out there.

Speaking of black tee-shirts, I was looking cool in mine and rocking a pair of black tight-as jeans just strolling past Tangiwai Reserve, when these two dudes who were trying to start a Harley, asked me if I’d like to join them on a march-thingy later on that afternoon. I think it was because they were also heavily into wearing black clothes. But dudes, leather pants on a hot day are a bit stink. They said I had to paint a ‘protest sign.’ Sweet.

Just like ’Stop the Tour’ all over again. Good times. I managed to kick- start their bike for them and they took off saying ‘God Bless our freedom.’

Later that day I caught the train into town and met up with heaps of people. My sign got heaps of looks. It said, ‘Jacinda… just because you got a sweet trade deal with foreigners.… got us one of the strongest economies in the OECD and are doing heaps to try and stop violence in the home… It’s pronounced ‘community’ not ‘communidy’.’

Yeah, it may have been a bit strong.

We walked for ages. There were tons of cops all around, stopping traffic and giving us the ‘eye.’ And sunblock. And bottles of water.

I learned heaps!

Did you know that at least a half of the world’s leaders are actually lizard creatures?

Get this: fewer people have died saying “Covid doesn’t exist” three times into a mirror, than have died getting the booster injection. I regret getting all my jabs now that I know it is made up of mainly really, really expensive lake water, diethylene glycol and infused hot air. Apparently those world doctors are trying to rid the world of its high population figures and that.

The people I was rubbing shoulders with knew a lot more about that kind of stuff than me. You can factcheck them on Facebook.

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I said I might come along on the next march but Shaz and me already had plans to head up north for New Years.

The next day, Mopey Jesus dropped in for a home brew and to give me a hand putting bigger carbs on Whitevan. He’s developed a miss at 4000 revs. Jokingly I said I should probably go electric.

Get this: Mopey Jesus said that some French bloke called Gaston Plante’ in 1859, invented a lead-acid cell.

163 years later we’ve come up with the electric car. Now that’s progress.

He said that in most overseas cities, the air coming out the back of their cars is cleaner than the air going in the front. Crazy.

We went inside to have a piece of Shaz-made Christmas cake. On top she had put nuts. Nuts! What’s next, salad with your steak, eggs and chips? It was delicious, by the way.

If Elvis was still alive (and a few up at the Razza think they’ve spotted him working nights at the Glen Eden kebab shop), he’d be 87. Where does the time go? Mopey said,”Entia non sunt multiplicanda praeter necessitatem.”

“What?”

“The simplest explanation is usually the correct one,” he replied. Hell, it’s been 15 years since Sandra Bullock and Jesse James split up. That crazy love rat. Are choppers even cool anymore?

Shaz said that ‘once in a blue moon’, meant it wouldn’t happen for yonks, but now it’s every two or three years.

In fact in 2018 we had two of them. Only two months apart and one was a lunar eclipse! Blimey.

She’s actually quite a deep thinker is our Shaz. She said the other night, “It’s easy to let the cat out of the bag but try getting the bugger back in.” Classic Shaz.

Anyway. Have a ripper year. Remember to sneeze into your elbow. Keep up your liquids.

Later, Lizard.

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The following advertisers support us and our community by making this publication possible. They deserve our gratitude and support.

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Jewellers Collective ............................................ 11

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Open Studios Waitakere .................................... 13

Auckland Council rubbish collections .................. 6 The Trusts: Half Year Report ...................... 14 – 15

AUTOMOTIVE Ken Turner Automotive and Auto Electrical ........ 3

BUILDING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Drain Ranger ...................................................... 23 Leanne Harley Design .......................................... 3

West Lynn Garden Society: manager wanted .... 23

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HOUSE & HOME Susannah Bridges, ceramics and lighting ........... 10

LEGAL & POLITICAL Deborah Russell, MP for New Lynn...................... 3 Future West ......................................................... 5

GARDENS & LANDSCAPE Gordons Nurseries ............................................. 23

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EcoMatters: worst weeds watch list .................. 18

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EcoMatters: War on Weeds ............................... 19

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Bill Korver, lawyer .............................................. 22

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writers and are not necessarily endorsed by the publication or its publisher. Fringe Media Ltd is not responsible in Phone (09) 212advertisement, 6098 any way for the contents of any article, 3/402 TITIRANGI ROAD, TITIRANGI photograph or illustration contained in this publication.

(ABOVE THE TITIRANGI WINE SHOP) While every reasonable care will be taken by the Editor, For a Free Quote: www.cnzitera.com/contact-us/ no responsibility is assumed for the return of unsolicited material. © Copyright 2021 by Fringe Media Ltd. All content in this issue is the property of Fringe Media Ltd and may not be reproduced in any way or form whatsoever without permission from the publisher. All rights reserved.

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23

Waitematā Table Tennis Association Stadium reopens

Backing from Auckland Council has played a vital role in the extensive refurbishment of the Waitemata Table Tennis Club Stadium, providing $830,000 to help the $1.9million project.

The purpose-built facility at 72a Seymour Road in Sunnyvale is twice the size and is wheelchair accessible. It replaces the original building which was built by volunteers in the 1970s from second-hand materials. The refurbishment involved demolishing the old structure but keeping the playing floor, one of the best playing surfaces in the country.

Council funding for the refurbishment came from Waitākere Ranges Local Board, Henderson-Massey Local Board, and the council’s Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund.

Valuable community asset

Waitākere Ward Councillor Linda Cooper says that the project has been a long time in coming.

“Good things come to those who wait, and we’ve had to wait for this, but what a result,” she says.

“We’ve backed this project since the start as we know how important it is to the community, and the result is magnificent.

Well done to all involved. Not only is it a valuable community asset, but the facilities will help put the club on the map and attract high-calibre players and tournaments to the area.”

about access to the stadium. We would also be suitable for indoor bowls, or any group wanting to use the facilities for meetings.

“We expect to more than double membership as in the past we have simply been full, all the time.”

Visit www.wtta.nz for more information.

Improved transport safety options from $1 million fund

Three transport projects in the Waitākere Ranges Local Board area have been given the green light.

Funding was agreed for the construction of the Verdale Circle to Glendale Road walkway, at a cost of $600,000. A raised table crossing on Glendale Road is to receive $200,000 while almost $100,000 was allocated toward improving pedestrian safety at the intersection between Titirangi and South Titirangi Road (below).

A further four projects have had investigative work funded.

The Parrs Park to Sunnyvale shared path and the proposed walking and cycleway from Glen Eden Train Station to Upper Waikumete stream have been allocated $15,000 and $20,000 respectively while an additional $40,000 has been allocated for two projects on Candia Road to look at pedestrian safety and potential barrier options and construction outside Henderson Valley Scenic Reserve.

Important improvements

L-R: Andrew Palmer (WTTA Building Committee Chair), Simon Fenwick (WTTA Project Manager), Nick Harris (Auckland Council), Craig Dye ( Building Committee), Alfred (member)

Delighted

Waitākere Ranges Local Board Chair, Saffron Toms, is also delighted at the outcome.

“We were so pleased to be able to help fund this project,” she says. “There is a really active and involved community who utilise the facility and this project means that they will be able to continue for a long time.”

Significant difference

Andrew Palmer, club chairman, says that the accessibility of the new building will make a significant difference.

“Being wheelchair accessible was a big driver for our club as there is huge unmet need for wheelchair and para table tennis in West Auckland.

“Without council backing, and council funding there is no way this project would have got off the ground. The council has been invaluable this entire journey,” he says.

“The expansion means we can run coaching at the same time casual hire or other sessions are on, meaning it’s easier to cater for all members.

Now that we have more space we are also open to other community groups enquiring

24

The Fringe FEBRUARY 2022

Waitākere Ranges Local Board Chair Saffron Toms says that the funding will keep transport improvements moving in the area.

“We have allocated funding to practical, construction-ready projects that will improve the safety of our communities, as well as looking forward and providing funding for investigative work to be done on others to see how feasible they are.

“Constructing the walkway from Glen Eden Town Centre to Verdale Circle will provide people with an option to leave their cars at home and safely get into the centre of Glen Eden. This will enhance the existing area and provide a formal pathway on the route, improving the morning commute, as well as for families with young children. We are really excited about this project and look forward to seeing it get underway in 2022.

“Improving the pedestrian crossing on South Titirangi Road will make a big difference to what is a dangerous crossing.

Extending the refuge and improving visibility will make the crossing a whole lot safer and easier, particularly for people with mobility issues, wheelchairs or prams.

“At the same time, we are moving forward with investigative work for a number of other projects to help us and the community understand what costings and next steps will be. This will be a positive step in progressing these projects.”

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