Mahurangi Matters_Issue 428M_25 April 2022

Local Folk: Roger Trotter page 11

Women who “wow” pages 24-30

Out and about at Easter pages 38&39

April 25, 2022

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Board delivers million dollar loos Ratepayers are paying more than $2 million for two prefab toilet blocks – one in Wellsford and the other at Omaha.

Work has started on the Wellsford facility which will contain five toilets, urinals and a baby change table. It is expected to be transported to the site, behind the existing brick toilet block on State Highway 1, at the end of this month.

Utilities and fit-out will take a further month, provided there are no Covid-19 or supply chain delays, so the toilets are expected to open late next month. The existing toilet block will be then demolished.

“I am sure everyone is excited to see it underway,” Board chair Phelan Pirrie says.

“Positioning the new facility at the back of the existing toilet block really opens up the site and creates a green space that connects very well with the town centre.”

Better lighting in the carpark has been included as part of the project.

The Omaha toilet block will be installed in the William Fraser Reserve, next to the surf club, and will include seven toilets, urinals, changing rooms and outdoor showers.

Local Board deputy chair Beth Houlbrooke says an Omaha Beach scene will decorate the side of the building.

“The surf club toilets are showing their age, requiring increasing maintenance, and cleaning, and wind-borne sand frequently blocks the drains,” Houlbrooke says. continued on page 2

William Fraser Reserve – Omaha Beach: Design & consenting – $111,000 Project management – $26,000 Upgrade of bore water supply - $110,000 Construction - $995,500 Total: $1,242,500

Wellsford: Design & consenting - $86,600 Project management - $68,000 Construction - $979,600 Total: $1,134,200

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Board delivers million dollar loos “While the impact of extreme weather events and potential flooding on the facility has been considered, it is still the best site available.”

of the Omaha toilet block will be durable to withstand periodic exposure to flood waters, with all power outlets placed higher up than usual.

She says materials used in the lower portion

Northern Board representatives were asked

from page 1

to comment a) if they were comfortable with the $2m-plus cost for the two toilet blocks; b) did they scrutinise where the money was being spent; and c) did they raise any concerns at Board meetings or workshops? Here are their answers:

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a) No, I am not comfortable with the Board spending this amount on prefabricated anything. b) Yes, and the repeated messaging we get from Auckland Council staff is that this is the best or only way to achieve what we want for our community. c) Yes, the cost to Council vs what a private individual would pay for a service or item/structure is abhorrent!

This has been the case from day one of Auckland Council and needs to change – from the top! Council needs to enable activity development and progress, and find ways to speed things up rather than slow them down.

a) No, these toilets were chosen because they are prefab and easily movable. I would hate to think of what it would cost if they were built onsite. Why build the toilets in Gisborne – what was wrong with local builders? b) No, there was no cost mentioned.

Being prefabbed, we were informed this was the most cost effective way c) Yes, I did raise concerns about the toilets. This process has taken far too long and Council costs are not cheap.

Wellsford needs a toilet at the Gull service station. We were to have three public consultations, to save money we only had two. This is what happens when the Local Board is run by a ticket. I believe the Board workshops should be open to the public to stop this happening.

Tim Holdgate a) Yes, I am certainly very uncomfortable, particularly because your … “$2 million on two prefab toilet blocks” is the first I have heard of any fiscal detail relating the likely cost. Such was to have been presented back to the Board following an earlier workshop, which raised some questions on the project. b) No, simply because no such financial information has been presented at Board level. c) Yes, I raised some concept concerns after meeting some Omaha residents to listen to their concerns regarding the proposed toilets. This is symptomatic of ineffective Board workshop meetings and lack of collaborative decision-making. Council’s current financial position calls for financial costs to be reviewed with all such projects.

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Beth Houlbrooke (abridged) I find it incredible that the other northern members are saying that they do not recall debate on this topic, or being kept informed of costs of this project along the way. There have been multiple opportunities for members to avail themselves of all this information through reading the material which contains all the financials, and to ask questions as these projects have progressed: • Annually, when we approve the Work Programme • Quarterly, when we receive the Performance Report • Monthly, when Community Facilities update the local board on current projects • Anytime, by consulting the Work

Programme spreadsheet which we all have a copy of, and by contacting staff.

All of this is public information and can be found in the minutes and agendas of the Board’s business meetings where these projects were approved by the Board.

Although these are prefabricated, they are custom made for the sites

by Permaloo. They have to be built extremely robustly for the amount of use they will receive from large visitor numbers at both sites. As well as the costs of design, consenting and project management, the construction costs have included the addition of a water upgrade at Omaha, demolishing the old toilets at Wellsford and siteworks to prepare for the pocket park which will take their place, and then there’s things like the connection of services, and additional items such as ramps, steps, and paths.

Although these are large sums of money, understand that these are funded from depreciation because they are renewals of existing facilities.

Even if we had been able to find any additional savings on them, we would not have been able to spend that money elsewhere (no it can’t go on repairing roads!). This does not mean that we have not carefully scrutinised the costs every step of the way. So no, we should never feel “comfortable” when responsible for such large sums of ratepayer money. It is a matter of staying alert, asking questions, and then taking ownership of the decisions we make collectively as a Board.

See cartoon and We Say on page 8.

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In brief Bowlers switch sites

Bowls Warkworth is shifting its focus for new clubrooms from Shoesmith Domain to Campbell Reserve, at the top of Glenmore Drive. The club has been looking for a new site for several years and put forward its plans for an ambitious $7.5million worldclass facility on public land at the bottom of Shoesmith Domain late last year. The project would be funded by the sale of its Mill Lane property. Last week, the club updated the Rodney Local Board on its plans. Club secretary Mike Newland said that the two-hectare Campbell Reserve was suggested to the club by Auckland Council. The larger site will allow for three greens, rather than the two proposed at Shoesmith. “But otherwise, the plans are pretty much the same,” he said. The club is meeting Council staff early next month to further the project.

Sandspit parking One local’s take on the speed cut proposal.

Why us? Leigh residents want to know why AT has singled them out for a blanket 30km/h zone.

Leigh blanket speed cut plan ‘unnecessary’ A group of Leigh residents is taking issue with an Auckland Transport (AT) plan for a wholesale speed limit reduction throughout the town from 50 km/h to 30km/h.

The proposal is part of the latest phase of AT’s Safer Speeds programme, where the focus is on residential roads around schools.

However, many Leigh drivers say imposing a 30km/ limit on 19 roads and streets, or the entire town centre, is overkill and unnecessary.

Campaign coordinator and volunteer fireman Tony Enderby branded the scheme “crazy”, saying there had been no serious accidents or community demand to justify such a move, and it would cause delays for emergency services.

“Having been to most motor vehicle accidents around Leigh over the past 20 years, I have a pretty good idea of the causes and it’s not speed,” he said. “There has not been a car versus pedestrian or bicycle in Leigh during that time. And fire crews will have to drop their speed to callouts or drive illegally.”

Leigh Business Community president Richard Scott said, like many others in the town, the group would be more than happy with a speed reduction around the school itself, but not a blanket speed cut.

“It’s illogical. We haven’t been consulted, it’s without any reasoning and it bewilders me,” he said. “Why can’t they do the four things we have been asking for – seal Pakiri Hill, put a footpath in from Leigh

to the Sawmill, create a two-way bridge at Tramcar Bay and put a ‘no thoroughfare’ over Seatoun Avenue, so people come right into Leigh when they’re on their way to Goat Island.”

Another resident pointed out that the regular trucks from Leigh Fisheries would struggle to maintain 30km/h up and down the hills into and out of town.

“

... fire crews will have to drop their speed to callouts or drive illegally.

”

“Trucks will have to use their engine brakes in first gear, which will mean a heck of a lot more noise, smoke and diesel,” he said.

A petition against the plans has been placed in several local businesses, although many at a recent protest believed AT had already made its decision and local views would not be listened to.

However, AT’s senior media specialist Natalie Polley said all feedback was welcome, community engagement in the area would continue and Auckland Transport staff would be visiting Leigh to talk to the community in person in the coming weeks.

She said information about the fish trucks was just the sort of knowledge they were looking for.

“This is great localised feedback to receive,” she said. “It would be good to understand

what are the most common routes for the fishery trucks in and around Leigh. This is something that our staff will be keen to discuss in person at a community session next school term.”

She said Leigh and other seaside towns were considered future risk areas for road trauma as tourism and development activity increased, and that 30km/h was considered the safe and appropriate speed around schools and residential areas.

“The data we have for the streets that have been included in this proposal around Leigh School find that the mean operating speeds on 16 of the 19 roads is less than 30km/h. In this area many of the streets are cul-de-sacs where most drivers are already comfortable driving below the current speed limit.”

She said the area-wide approach and permanent nature of the speed limit changes also reflected that often school areas were a hub for the community, with a lot of walking or cycling around them.

“Instead of just focusing on the school gate, this area-wide approach aims to encourage walking and cycling through the entire area and to prevent drivers travelling at speeds that are not appropriate for this type of residential environment, whether it’s the weekend or a few hours after school has closed,” she said.

Meanwhile, a kea crossing and school zone signage funded by Rodney Local Board is due to be installed outside Leigh School, although AT estimates it won’t be completed until April next year.

A specialist parking provider is being sought to run the carpark at the Sandspit Wharf.

The Rodney Local Board was told last week that the purpose of the parking regime would be to better manage the fair use of the reserve and increase parking turnover and compliance, as well as provide options for longer term concession agreements for Kawau Island residents and ratepayers.

The independent operator would oversee charging and enforcement, although the Local Board would set the tariffs. Council staff said that given that there was already a fee regime in place, consultation was not strictly necessary but agreed consultation with affected parties would be a useful.

The carpark contains about 320 parking spaces, divided into 10 distinct bays, and has historically provided parking to more than 150 leases, mobility and casual parking customers. Parking charges were discontinued in October 2020 when ownership transferred from Auckland Transport to Auckland Council. Staff reported that as a result, the site was overused and improper parking behaviour had occurred.

Molesworth closure

As part of the infrastructure works associated with the Mangawhai Central development, a 500-metre section of Molesworth Drive will be closed entirely to all road users, apart from emergency services, from early Tuesday, April 26 to late Sunday, May 1 inclusive. This is to allow a major road upgrade and realignment connecting to the new subdivision. The closure will involve night works so the project can be quickly completed and disruption to road users minimised. During this time a detour will be in place via Cove and Tara Roads to enable access between Mangawhai Village and Mangawhai Heads. This will add 1015 minutes to the journey between the two centres. Traffic management will be in place at the two one-way bridges en route.

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Closure rumours denied as trust in banks decreases

The festival has stayed alive because it has evolved as times have changed, but it remains to be seen if it can weather the fallout from Covid.

Kowhai Festival faces uncertain future

For the third year in a row, Warkworth’s largest community event – the annual Kowhai Festival – has been cancelled.

And unless volunteer organisers step forward, the cancellation could be permanent.

The festival was last held in 2019 when it celebrated 50 years, making it the second oldest festival held continuously in New Zealand.

However, Covid-19 stymied plans for both the 2020 and 2021 festivals, and it seems the absence of the event has taken its toll on organisers. Only nine people attended the annual meeting held on April 12, where Phil Tyler was elected chair.

“It was a difficult decision not to go ahead with this year’s festival, but Covid and lockdowns have made it hard to keep people engaged,” Tyler says. “We need to move into a rebuilding phase and the small group currently involved is incredibly motivated to make the festival happen next year, but we will clearly need more in terms of human resources.”

Tyler says the group also needs more time to sort out council processes.

“There are so many hoops to jump through, from health and safety to traffic management plans, which all have to be done by volunteers who mostly have full-time jobs.

Tyler says the festival also needs to rebuild partnerships with businesses interested in sponsoring the event, which costs between $30,000 to $50,000 depending on entertainment costs.

However, this isn’t the first time the festival has been on the brink of closure.

It was about 15 years ago that Lesley Ingham took over its management to keep it going, after Dave Parker stepped aside. Ingham ran it for seven years and during that time, built up an enthusiastic team of volunteers.

“It was a matter of shoulder-tapping people like Shona Pickup and Kath Bartlett, and then getting processes in place to make the running of it easier,” Ingham says. “At the start, Sally Groenhart took on the children’s festival, which was a big help.

“It will be a real shame if the town loses the festival. It’s had a long history and it is such a fun event. Also, Warkworth doesn’t have a lot of events that are as inclusive. The Kowhai Festival brings everyone together, even teenagers!”

Ingham says she can see how things have probably become harder post-Covid, but believes there is still potential for it to be a community festival again.

Phil Tyler can be contacted at Philip.tyler@hotmail.com or 027 5830 486.

Continuing rumours that ASB is planning to permanently close its Wellsford branch have been denied by the bank this month.

ASB’s head of external communications, Brigitte Ransom, said while the branch at 139 Rodney Street was currently operating temporary reduced hours as a result of Covid-19, the bank hoped to return to normal opening hours soon.

“We have no current plans to close our Wellsford branch,” she said. “We will continue to monitor the progression and impact of Covid-19 but expect Wellsford to return to normal opening hours in the next month or so.”

And she added that the current closure of the Warkworth ASB branch was also just a temporary measure.

“Our Warkworth branch is temporarily closed and we look forward to reopening to customers in the coming weeks, as the impact of Covid in the community declines,” she said.

“In the meantime, our Warkworth team is helping to back up our phone and online teams, as we have seen a significant uptick in customers choosing to use these channels rather than coming into branches in person.”

Rumours that the Wellsford branch was set for closure originally surfaced after the first lockdown in 2020, when its opening hours were reduced from five days a week to three, and they continue to resurface on local social media pages.

Meanwhile, a new Consumer NZ survey has found that customer trust in banks is fading fast, with almost three quarters of New Zealanders thinking they charge too much and need monitoring more closely, and half thinking they can’t be trusted.

Consumer NZ chief executive Jon Duffy said the rising cost of living was the most concerning issue for the majority of those surveyed.

“While the cost of living soars, banks are reporting major profits, which is not going unnoticed by customers,” he said.

“Consumers are telling us that the bigger half of the banking industry is doing poorly on customer service … the big banks should note that consumers see a lot of room for improvement.”

Omicron hours – what’s open and when in Wellsford and Warkworth Wellsford ASB

Tuesday and Thursday, 9am-4.30pm

Kiwibank

(NZ Post) Monday to Friday, 8.30am-5pm

Warkworth ASB closed ANZ

Monday to Friday, 9am-4.30pm

BNZ

Tuesday and Thursday, 10am-4pm

Kiwibank

(NZ Post) Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm

Westpac

Monday to Friday, 10am-2pm

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Plan ahead for overnight SH1 closures and daytime stop/go near Warkworth It’s a busy and exciting time in the north as our team progress works at Pukerito (Northern Connection). Once complete, this connection will provide a safer, more resilient and reliable connection to the current SH1 and future Matakana Link Road.

Urban Partners is seeking an external party who can ensure the site delivers a world-class health and wellness service.

Historic Waiwera site for sale The derelict Waiwera Pools and campground are once again being offered for sale.

The resort closed in February 2018 with promises of a major redevelopment into a wellness spa, which never eventuated.

Now the current owners Urban Partners are seeking expressions of interest from a joint venture partner or a purchaser.

The site is recognised as a regional tourist attraction under the Auckland Unitary Plan and has zoning allowing for business, residential development, health and wellness, tourism, hospitality and visitor accommodation. Project director Doug Osborne says Urban Partners has always had high ambitions and the best of intentions for the freehold location.

“Now that the main issues behind the protracted delays have been resolved, we are marketing the site to those interested in partnering, developing or buying this worldclass wellness destination,” Osborne says.

“We expect the site to be of real interest to specialist operators from around the globe.

“While we have long understood the potential of the site, Covid and the associated border closures have added further delays to our goal of finding a partner who can see the wellness opportunity of the site and work with us to develop the coastal haven to its potential.”

Waiwera’s thermal waters have a reputation for their therapeutic and curative powers dating back to pre-European times. The area was home to New Zealand’s first spa and purpose-built tourist facility, which later included a hotel, bath houses and, more recently, a hot water resort first

constructed in 1970.

Osborne says the marketing campaign will target those best in class in the wellness, tourism and leisure and recreation and residential category.

The Waiwera complex is being marketed

by Colliers.

Timeline

Next month, the project will be undertaking pavement improvement and tie in works on State Highway 1 (SH1) between Kaipara Flats Road/Goatley Road and Hudson Road intersections. A section of SH1 will be closed will this happens to ensure the safety of our teams working at night and all other road users. During the day the area will also have a stop/go operation in place keep crews safe while doing their work and to prevent damage to vehicles and new road seal.

The works will be carried out during the following times: Daytime works – stop/go and lower speed limit in place: • Monday 2 May to Friday 6 May between 5am and 9pm Overnight full closure – detour in place: • Monday 2 May to Thursday 5 May between 9pm and 5am

Pre-1840 – The area was widely populated

by Maori, with several iwi contesting the bay for its prime fishing and therapeutic waters. 1840 – Waiwera became recognised as the First Spa. 1844 – Robert Graham, a Scottish immigrant, returned to Waiwera where he purchased land along the foreshore from the Maori chief, Te Hemara.

1850 – The first bathing facilities are built.

1870 – Waiwera and the Hot Spring Hotel were recognised as the first purpose-built tourist facility in New Zealand. 1905 – A 400m long wharf is built. 1939 – The Hot Springs Hotel is destroyed by fire.

1943 – The new 42-bed South Pacific Hotel was built to replace the Hot Springs Hotel. 1953 – The wharf is demolished.

1970 – The thermal resort activity was first commenced as Hartley Hot Pools.

1980 – Thermal Resorts bought by John St Clair Brown followed by water bottling operations. 2007 – The thermal resort and water bottling are sold on a leasehold basis to Mikhail Khimich, with Waiwera Properties Limited (WPL) acquiring the freehold of the resort site (subject to perpetual lease). 2009-2014 – WPL acquires the hotel site and campground site. 2018 – WPL acquires total control of the site following Khimich default. 2022 – Urban Partners seeks expressions of interest for all three sites.

When the full closure is in place, there will be a detour between Warkworth and Wellsford via State Highway 16, for those needing to travel at night. The detour could add up to 30 minutes travel time for some road users, so we advise planning travel over this time carefully and apologise in advance for any inconvenience. We will work closely with the project neighbours and there will be early warning signage to advise motorists ahead of the works.

Safety is our highest priority, and a reduced speed limit of 30km/h will be in place during the daytime stop/go, for the duration of these works. We ask that drivers keep to the temporary speed limit for the safety of our work crews and road users, drive to the conditions and don’t be distracted by work activity.

While we will try to limit disruption to traffic flows, road users should plan ahead by checking the Waka Kotahi journey planner https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/ before heading out and allow more time for their journey. Please do email info@nx2group.com or call 0508 7295 4636 if you have any questions about this work.

Ngā mihi, Robert

Thank you for buying local and supporting our businesses, as our economic recovery from COVID-19 gains momentum.

Marja Lubeck

Labour list MP based in Kaipara ki Mahurangi

For more information, call the NX2 team on: 24/7 Freephone: 0508 P2WK INFO (0508 7295 4636) Email: info@nx2group.com Facebook: Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth Web: nx2group.com

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April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

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Town centre plan on the way, says Local Board

Warkworth is a step closer to getting its own town centre plan that will guide how the CBD can be improved and developed in the future.

Rodney Local Board is on the verge of choosing a consultant to develop the plan and once that contract is awarded, the process and a timeline will follow.

The need for a town centre plan was outlined in Rodney Local Board’s 2020 three-year plan and it is also a priority for One Mahurangi Business Association this year (MM, Feb 22).

“Our town centres and villages have seen little improvement for over a decade,” the Board said in its plan document.

“We need the community to be involved in creating town centres, parks and facilities that are fit for the future, that create a sense of pride, and that encourage people to buy local food, goods and services. This will be particularly important as we recover from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

One Mahurangi says that with all the development that is coming, development of such a plan needs to start this year.

Board deputy chair Beth Houlbrooke agreed.

“As the Local Board project lead for Warkworth Town Centre Improvements, as well as the local board liaison on the One Mahurangi BID, I’m keenly looking forward to seeing progress on this project,” she said. “So naturally I want to see a start well before the end of the electoral term.”

Any such plan would attempt to address issues such as parking and traffic, as well as putting in place visions, aims and priorities for future development.

New motorway opening stalled in slow lane There is still no indication when the Puhoi to Warkworth motorway will open, but it definitely won’t be next month.

A Waka Kotahi spokesperson says it is still working on the revised programme of works from NX2, the consortium building the motorway, which sets out realistic timeframes, including an opening date that is achievable within the context of the current and ongoing impacts of Covid-19.

The motorway was first slated to open last December, but this was shifted to May after Covid delays. Waka Kotahi says it recognises that lockdowns, alert level restrictions and ongoing supply chain constraints have impacted NX2’s ability to meet the May opening date.

The stakes are high for NX2, which faces a $250,000 a day penalty for every day it goes over an agreed completion date.

Waka Kothai says negotiations regarding associated costs are being discussed.

“We will announce the new opening date as soon as it is confirmed.”

Meanwhile, NX2 relationship manager Jonathan Green told a Warkworth Area Liaison Group meeting this month that 166 works completion tests had to be completed, inspected and signed off before even one vehicle was allowed on the road.

“Within this there are about 1200 construction packages that all need to be done and inspected. There is still a long way to go before this can be achieved,” he said.

Motorway signage pointing to Warkworth was raised as an issue at the meeting.

There was concern that unless it was clear, travellers would not bother doubling back south at the top of the motorway to the

town. Green agreed to take these concerns back to NX2.

Green was also asked if the completion of the intersection with SH1 and the Matakana link road could be advanced, so the link road could open as soon as it was finished.

“Hand on heart, I can’t answer that,” he said.

Motorists heading north will be given a taste of the motorway in late May, when traffic is diverted off SH1, between Puhoi and the tunnels, to allow work on this stretch of road. At the northern connection to SH1, between May 2 and 5, there will be a full road closure from Hudson Road to Kaipara Flats Road each night between 9pm and 5am. This will allow road sealing of this area.

Waka Kotahi provided the following update: Construction works – complete

Construction works – still to do

• One-third of the total road pavement laid – or 52,000 tonnes of pavement

• Paving and asphalting across the project, including the southern connection on and off ramps

• The Arawhiti ki Ōkahu and Arawhiti ki Pūhoi viaducts

• Resurfacing works at the northern intersections

• Hibiscus Coast highway widening

• Foundations and placement of artworks

• Street light installation at the southern connection • 3100m of kerb and channel • 500,000 plants in the ground • 15,000m3 of mulch spread • Five of 12 stormwater treatment wetlands completed

• Completion of the E530 culvert • Landscaping, including fencing, mulching and planting • Wire rope and w-section barriers project-wide • Further kerbing construction • Completion of median and verge sealing • Completion of stormwater management systems • Street furniture and road sign installation • Slip-form barriers at bridges

To watch a flyover of the project taken in February, visit: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=NMf0LDtOgkE

• Completion of culvert works • Completion of constructed wetlands • Safety, compliance and assurance tests

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It’s full steam ahead for Mangawhai Central, following the resolution of appeals against Plan Change 78.

New stores open at Mangawhai Central later this year A New World supermarket and a Bunnings Warehouse are expected to open in Mangawhai later this year.

They will be the first commercial buildings in Mangawhai Central, a large scale development over 130 hectares off Molesworth Drive, between Mangawhai Village and Mangawhai Heads.

The development includes a mix of commercial, retail and residential options, including a retirement village. Originally called Estuary Estates, the land is owned by an Auckland-based company, Mangawhai Central Limited.

A spokesperson for the company says the bulk of residential sales won’t get underway until next year when titles are issued, but a small 15-lot subdivision on Old Waipu Road should be ready to sell off the plan in the next couple of months.

Meanwhile, appeals to the Environment Court against the Mangawhai Central Private Plan Change 78 have been settled through mediation.

Mayor Dr Jason Smith says this outcome is a good example of the democratic process at work.

“The agreement has achieved the right balance of enabling development, and preserving the parts of local character

and amenity that makes the magical Mangawhai environment so special and unique,” Smith says.

Last year, residents group Mangawhai Matters and Clive Boonham filed separate appeals to the court against Kaipara District Council’s decision to approve the plan change.

The Mangawhai Matters appeal resulted in the amendment of the plan change by changing financial contribution requirements, enabling wastewater applications to be declined if there is insufficient capacity, strengthening the water supply and stormwater provisions, changing provisions to maintain the small town coastal character of Mangawhai, amending minimum lot size and density rules, as well as several changes to address potential effects on NZ fairy tern and improve management of effects on wetlands.

Mr Boonham was primarily concerned with the capacity of the Mangawhai wastewater system and the court has confirmed that the provisions need to be more explicit around having sufficient current or planned wastewater capacity for any proposed development.

The Environment Court has now finalised this process.

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April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

7

WeSay What a stink!

If you have ever wondered why your rates keeping going up year after year, look no further than our story on page one.

The news that the Rodney Local Board is building toilet blocks at Omaha and Wellsford should have been something to celebrate. The townsfolk of Wellsford have long been asking for a replacement for their antique public facilities and anyone who has been to Omaha Beach on a hot summer’s day knows that the facilities under the surf club are far from adequate.

But the expenditure of $1.24 million on seven toilets, urinals and changing rooms at Omaha and $1.13 million on five toilets, a baby change table, men’s urinal and carpark lighting in Wellsford is shameful.

It is yet another example of a bureaucracy (Auckland Council) that is out of touch with reality, with little or no fiscal nous or responsibility.

Out of interest, we spoke to two local house building companies to get an idea of what people in the trade thought of these charges. They confirmed that the cost of an average three-bedroomed home, with a bathroom and en suite, starts around $450,000 to $500,000. That’s two houses for about the same price as just one of these toilet blocks! One company representative commented: “Sweet deal for the builder. I wish someone would ask me to build a few toilets for that price!”

In 2018, Hutt City came under fire for spending $260,000 on two new public toilets and Nelson City Council was also criticised for spending $798,000 on an architecturally designed toilet block in 2020. These prices pale in comparison to the Mahurangi toilets.

According to figures released by the Board, the design and consenting fees for the Omaha block cost $111,000, while Wellsford wasn’t much better at $86,000.

Excuse our ignorance, but isn’t building public toilets bog-standard work for Council? How much ‘design’ do they need?

Surely a set of toilets designed for Kowhai Park in Warkworth, Blockhouse Bay or Takapuna would be suitable for Wellsford or Omaha with minor modifications.

What’s troubling about all this is that members of the Local Board, who we rely on to keep these projects in check, were either not paying attention or were comfortable with this level of wastage. The final insult is that despite the mantra to ‘buy local’, we understand that that toilets were built in Gisborne and trucked here.

Talk about money down the toilet!

See story page 1

YouSay

Contributions to Your opinion and Off the record are welcome, to submit email: editor@localmatters.co.nz

Bus services clarification

I note that in John Griffin’s letter to the editor (MM Apr 11) titled ‘AT out of touch’, refers to “buses on this route to Omaha have been operating for a number of years, funded by a transport tax imposed upon local ratepayers”… and … “Never once have I seen anywhere near enough passengers to justify the tax pilfered to fund the service”.

I assume that Mr Griffin is referring to the Rodney transport targeted rate. Can we please assure him and other readers that the local bus services are not funded by this rate, but from general rates. The only bus service that has been funded by the transport targeted rate in the Warkworth area is the 998 service to Wellsford, which is a success, reaching agreed patronage targets over its three years of operation and will be taken over by Auckland Transport from May this year, and will be funded by general rates from then onwards. Quite a milestone actually.

It would be helpful if the Local Board could be given an opportunity to comment or have right-of-reply to letters to the editor that make statements about decisions or projects and programmes of the local board which may require clarification. I am sure you are very familiar with the transport targeted rate programme so might have known that the statements in Mr Griffin’s letter which allude to it, are not accurate.

Beth Houlbrooke, Rodney Local Board member Editor’s Note: In the same issue, a letter by the Maltbys was also critical of some of the bus services. That letter was referred to Board chair Phelan Pirrie who responded: “Unfortunately I haven’t received the information in time for the deadline that I needed to respond meaningfully to this.”

Given his response, there seemed little point in referring the subsequent letter. Additionally, while the targeted rate is not funding the Omaha run, the point the correspondent was making is that these services aren’t attracting the patronage to justify any rates being spent on them. Whether it’s from a targeted rate or the general rates makes little difference to the average ratepayer.

Paper wasps

One of our clients sent us an article in your paper regarding paper wasps (MM Mar 28). He was concerned that the article indicated that Vespex works for paper wasps and was querying this as I had told him Vespex would not work for paper wasps.

I read the Department of Conservation wasp control page that the article referenced and can see where the confusion arises as they included a bit about paper wasps in their introduction, but the page is about controlling common and German wasps.

Paper wasps take live prey and will not take Vespex.

Spray is the best option to kill a paper wasp nest. Spray nests at dusk when all the adults have returned to the nest. You can get sprays from the hardware store that will spray a long way so you don’t have to get too close to the nest.

Once the adults have dropped off the nest, snip off the nest into a plastic bag, seal and put into the freezer to kill the larvae.

Research is currently underway to find a bait that will work for paper wasps, but it is a challenge to find an attractant. A new generation of insecticide specific to paper wasps is providing some hope, however, as it will allow for sweet baits to be trialled.

Kerry Barton, Merchento (manufacturers of Vespex), Nelson

Rodney backs deposit recycling scheme The Rodney Local Board has put its weight behind the Ministry of the Environment’s proposal to introduce a container return scheme and the use of vending machines.

At its meeting on April 20, the Board suggested that reverse vending machines be put in convenient locations where people regularly visit such as carparks, loading docks and supermarkets.

Other initiatives it supported were: • The use of resource recovery centres

for large-scale deposits of containers from the hospitality sector • That dairies be used for over-thecounter container returns but with a limit to the number of items per person, given that the store may have storage constraints.

• That reverse vending machines allow consumers the option to donate container refunds to a charity or receive a voucher to spend or swap at a participating retailer.

• The exemption of plastic milk containers from the scheme.

• The standardisation of kerbside recycling across NZ. • Food scrap collection across urban areas.

• Businesses separating food waste from general waste.

The Board’s suggestions will inform Auckland Council’s submission on the document Te Kapanoi i te hangarua: Transforming Recycling, which will be finalised by the deadline of May 8.

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Lower speeds supported 2022 is almost one-third gone already, and the world still feels foreign. This appears to be a time of change. But looking back through the ages, nearly every moment in time has probably felt like a period of change for those living it. Much and certainly the most drastic changes take place over relatively long periods. The oil crisis, for example, was hitting us back in the 70 and apparently, we should have run out completely by now. Electricity is supposedly going to save our ability to ‘own’ and maintain our transport options, but I am really relieved to see that the understanding about how energy is produced is the bigger issue. Does it really make a difference if grid-lock is people stopped on the motorway in petrol or electric cars?

Speed reductions are happening around our area now. It is irrefutable that slower speeds equal less serious outcomes from accidents.

And one good measure is that fewer people die. It is also interesting that higher speeds, exponentially increase the damage done to roads. Slower vehicles equal roads being in better condition longer! So, while I understand some people’s reticence, and that for some in remote locations this might be a bitter pill, I support lower speed limits.

The Matakana link road needs to be opened as soon as it can be. Regardless of the status of the new motorway. Open the link road! Would diverting all traffic from Matakana and Mahurangi East currently

turning right at Hill Street to the link road reduce the pressure and make the Hill Street intersection work better? How could it not! The build-up of local traffic at this intersection is horrendous. That there is quite regularly a 35-minute queue in the morning along Sandspit and Matakana Roads is abysmal. Hill Street intersection must be fixed and ‘thanks’ to the many groups who have lobbied to keep this moving over many years.

In the next few months, you will hopefully see or even be using some new footpaths being installed and funded by the Local Board, the parks and reserves are predominantly in good shape going into winter, our many varied community groups are supported, the life is slowly returning to ‘normal’ in our businesses and town centres. Auckland Council requires the input of elected people who have the interest of our community and understanding of structure of government and governance. It’s certainly not an easy thing.

We, the current Board, are already being told that the next three year term is going to be fraught. Budget constraints may mean a further lowering of services! One of the most effective and efficient things we can do, now, is speed up process and allow things to happen. Now is the time to enable and support activity, and Council must adapt and make this happen.

Coxhead project funded Efforts to restore a section of Coxhead Creek have received a significant boost with a $16,500 grant from the Rodney Local Board Healthy Harbours Waterways Fund.

The money will go towards 250 metres of fencing and the purchase of 3000 native plants.

The application for funding was submitted

by Coxhead Creek Trust, supported by Whangateau Harbourcare.

The group’s application stated that the project would be a catalyst for collaborative change in the creek’s catchment, situated between Whangateau and Matheson Bay.

“It’s the first step in the restoration of the stream, and a precursor to collaborative action across adjoining stream properties,” volunteer project coordinator Alicia Bullock says.

Bullock says there is increasing concern about the ongoing and apparent increase in major sediment discharge into Whangateau Harbour from the upstream catchment.

“Investigations have revealed that erosion in Coxhead Creek is a major source of this sediment. A critical mass of landowners, residents and community groups have come together to address the erosion issue in a holistic manner.”

Got council issues? ...

Say it to

Sayers

Online consultations available or book an in-person one-on-one

Greg Sayers – Rodney COUNCILLOR P: 021 285 9900 | www.gregsayers.co.nz

www.localmatters.co.nz

Central’s Tips May 2022

The fruit and vegetable garden • Prepare beds for traditional mid-winter crops such as garlic, onions, asparagus, and strawberries. Compost, blood and bone and Aquaticus Soil Conditioner (ground mussel shell) are all ideal.

• Chinese Snow Peas can be sown from now on, but ensure you have a wall or a frame for them to reach their mature height of 1.8metres.

• New winter vegetable seedlings such as cabbage and broccoli need to be protected from late season attacks by caterpillars, slugs and snails.

Spray for caterpillars or use slug bait around seedlings • Check lemon and other citrus trees for scale infestations on the backs of the leaves in the form of hard brown lumps. Spray with mineral oil • Place pots of winter herbs by the kitchen door – thyme, rosemary and bay leaves are staples for infusing flavour in cold weather food • If your maturing feijoa and citrus fruit have been attacked by guava moth, make a note for the coming spring season when traps can be used to control them

The rest of the garden • Get hardy cold season annuals in for winter flowers. Plant polyanthus, poppies, primulas, pansies wallflowers, stock, sweet william and cyclamen • Loving the autumn colour? Take photos of the trees and shrubs you like then take them to your local garden centre. They’ll be able to identify them and let you know what they’ll need to grow well • Plan for some winter scent - wonderful, scented flowers in winter include daphne, wintersweet, boronia and the Burkwood viburnum.

• Organic product Lawnganics ROOTS should be applied now to give some extra nutrition to build winter resilience in the lawn • Mulching helps: a layer around prized plants neatens the look for winter and has benefits such as protecting exposed roots from cold, limiting weed growth and evenly dispersing heavy rainfall • Boggy areas developed in winter? Apply a layer of gypsum to those areas, to open up the clay and aid drainage • Once leaf fall is finished, a copper and oil spray over deciduous fruit trees helps strengthen against disease and stops scale developing

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localfolk Roger Trotter

Life has moved at a quiet pace for Roger (Hops) Trotter. He still lives in the house on Hamilton Road where he was born 75 years ago, still tends his own garden and still likes a beer or two, as long as it’s DB. Although he has never married, seen the South Island or touched a computer, if he had his life to live over again, he says there isn’t much he would change.

Roger has also never ridden a bike in his life, but this hasn’t stopped him and his niece Shelley Trotter providing easements along more than six kilometres of their adjoining properties to help see the Matakana Coast Trail Trust become a reality.

Hops sat down for an afternoon chat with Mahurangi Matters …

M

y section of the easement is about 1.3 kilometres on my Duck Creek boundary.

There is already a track there that was formed a few years ago and it’s a popular bush walk with a few locals. My father fenced off part of it from stock long before riparian planting was fashionable, so it is a mix of naturally regenerating bush and trees that were planted as part of the Mahurangi Action Plan. The family is taking care of it at the moment including my great-nephew Joe, who has been keeping it clear, pruning branches and cleaning out the scrub and privet.

The Trotter family has been in the Mahurangi area a long time. My grandfather Alexander arrived in Dunedin from Lanarkshire, Scotland, in 1868. He then moved north to work as a farm hand on the Lushington Estate at Dairy Bay, where he met and married Annie Davie-Martin in 1882. Annie was born in Tiller Bay (now Martins Bay) in 1856, making her one of the earliest European babies born in the area. They went into partnership with a man named Hille and together they owned the original Solway property that covered 1649 acres, extending from Sharp Road to the Mahurangi River. Hille is the man who gave his name to the Auckland suburb of Hillsborough, as well as the notorious Hill Street intersection. Later, Alex independently bought a 330-acre farm in Wright Road, Matakana, which is still farmed by a branch of the family.

Alex and Annie had four sons and six daughters and my Dad, Davie, was the youngest. He married Mavis Crawshaw, of Hamilton, and they had three children – my brother Mike, my sister and me. In her single days, Mavis worked for her aunt, Annie Eves, who ran Orewa House, a guest house in Orewa. It is said she met my father when staying with the Rowe family in Hamilton Road, across the road from where Davie lived. My parents never spoke about my sister Sybil and I never met her, but the story goes she was intellectually handicapped. When Mum found out she was pregnant with me, she was more or less told to send my sister to a home in Nelson as people thought it would be too much for her to look after both Sybil and a new baby. They put her on the bus and never saw her again. It must have been heartbreaking for them all. My brother Mike and his wife Maureen now live in Russell and Mike will be 87 this year.

I went to Warkworth Primary and was in the fourth form when Warkworth District High School changed its name to Mahurangi College. I used to catch the bus with Lloyd

www.localmatters.co.nz

and Kay Phillips and Ted and Dick Morrison. Herb Tucker was our driver for a while and I remember that the bus was always breaking down. I left school when I was 15 – I couldn’t wait to get out of the place. I helped on the farm milking and looking after the pigs – the pig yard was on the corner of Hamilton Road. I also helped Dave McNaught who grew vegetables. From 1973 to 1995 I spent a fair bit of time working in forestry at Mangamuka and around the Hokianga, and later in the Woodhill Forest and locally. I was mainly involved in planting, pruning and measuring.

I enjoyed the work, the company of the other men, being out in the open and a beer or two at the end of the week. I wish I’d got into it a lot younger. It wasn’t without its risks and I had to take three months off after a falling branch broke my wrist once.

I was too small to play rugby, but I’ve always enjoyed fishing and cruising around the Hauraki Gulf. I’ve done a bit of game fishing over the years, but I always thought the best fish to bring in were the skipjack tuna. We used to have some good nights at the Mansion House pub on Kawau Island. I’ve still got the 40-foot Purple Haze moored at Sandspit but don’t get out as much as I used to.

I remember the first time I went to Great Barrier when I

Pedal power The Matakana Coast Trail Trust was established in 2015 to deliver a multi-purpose trail network from Puhoi to Mangawhai, via Warkworth, Matakana and Pakiri with connector trails to other locations such as Snells Beach,

was still a kid – it was one of my most memorable trips. I couldn’t believe how easy it was to catch fish. There were plenty of fish in those days; not like it is now.

I was 36 when I got my driver’s licence – there never seemed to be any rush because there were always plenty of people around to give you a lift if you needed to go anywhere.

These days I still work 16 hours a week, weeding the orchard at the organic blueberries at Omaha. I’ve been there 15 years and was pretty much fulltime until Covid came along. I’ve also done vineyard work trimming vines, and picked mandarins and kiwifruit at Point Wells. I like the work and I like being outside. I’ve got a good cat called Bullet for company at home. I’ve never owned a mobile phone, sent an email or gone on the internet. I wouldn’t have a clue how to even turn a computer on. But I don’t feel like I’ve missed out on anything. I read a bit, mostly nautical books and fishing magazines. I’ve always had a vegetable garden and I love honey, which I think is very good for you. We used to have someone else’s hives on the farm years ago. I’m glad to still have good health and I put it down to the fact that I’ve never smoked and never drank Lion Red!

Point Wells and Omaha. The development of the trail will happen in three stages, span 117 kilometres and cost around $50 million to complete. It is forecast to handle some 410,000 individual trips per annum.

To find out more, visit: www.mctt.org.nz

April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

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Mangawhai brewery granted consent Construction of a start-up microbrewery and distillery in Windsor Way, off Black Swamp Road, on the Mangawhai estuary, is expected to start soon.

Pacific Coast Beverages was granted a resource consent by Kaipara District Council late last week for the first stage of its development.

The consent was non-notified.

Company spokesperson Adam Booth says the packaged beer and spirits side of the new business will launch later this year, with construction of a hospitality wing set to happen next year.

Operations will be headed by brewing expert and beer judge Sam Williamson, who has 20 years’ experience working in various New Zealand breweries.

“The last year has seen a huge revolution in brewing knowledge, with the advancement of analytical technology and the evolution of beer styles” Williamson says. “Brewers are now challenging their own preconceptions on the correct way to brew, and making hugely accessible styles with techniques that bat against tradition.

I have intertwined my experience, theory and research to develop some tasty, contemporary recipes.”

Booth says the spirits will be in a league of their own, unique recipes that are intense and immediate classics.

He says an American-designed still will be the centrepiece of the venue and will be showcased in a viewing bunker on site.

“It’s a versatile piece of kit that will allow us to make really clean vodka, as well as flavoursome gin and wholesome rums – and maybe even some limited release whisky.”

The microbrewery will be an adjunct to the vineyard where planting started last year. The first wine is due in 2024.

The complex has been designed by architects RTA Studio whose previous work includes luxury and commercial

Brewer Sam Williamson.

A concept drawing of the new Mangawhai hospitality venue planned for Windsor Way in Mangawhai.

projects such as Black Estate and Hellmann Logistics.

Booth says the bistro will embrace extensive

north-western views, offering a relaxing space and will deliver “the best drinking experience New Zealand can offer”. Plans

are underway for tapa-style plates served alongside bespoke cocktails and 15 beer taps at the bar.

Feedback wanted for Centennial Park ‘masterplan’ to start in March last year, after Rodney Local Board voted to endorse the idea, which itself came from a Council needs assessment report that looked at future community sport and recreation needs in 2020. That ‘desktop review’ raised a few eyebrows locally, when it concluded that just one tennis court would be sufficient for Wellsford and the surrounding area’s future needs.

A Council spokesperson said the Centennial Park masterplan was still in its very early stages.

“Council staff are working with key stakeholders to identify future priority uses for Centennial Park, which builds on

The continuing saga of Wellsford Centennial Park’s future – and when, if and how its facilities will be redeveloped – has reached yet another stage.

Auckland Council is currently seeking public feedback on what people want to see at the park so that it can develop a draft masterplan for the 16 hectare sportsground.

That draft masterplan will then go out for public consultation later in the year.

To start that process off, an online ‘drop-in’ session was held on April 12 and forms for written feedback are available at Wellsford Library until April 30.

The development of a new masterplan for Centennial Park was originally due

research undertaken by Council and the Wellsford Sport Collective,” she said.

“Written feedback closes on April 30. The next step is preparing a draft masterplan, which the Rodney Local Board will approve for consultation.”

That draft plan will then be published on Council’s ‘Have Your Say’ website and there will be another drop-in session for community feedback.

Info: Email wellsford.library@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or call 0800 695427 for a feedback form, or email feedback to wellsfordcentennialparkmasterplan@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz by April 30.

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| Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

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Vale M

ost locals will likely remember Bruce Scoggins as someone who liked to get things done.

He was so annoyed about rural rates, he ran for the Rodney Local Board not long after he and wife Suzanne retired to their secluded waterfront property at Scotts Landing 12 years ago.

He was also involved with the Warkworth Area Liaison Group and Mahurangi East Residents and Ratepayers Association, and lamented the lack of a broader local group to action local issues.

Bruce and Suzanne were enthusiastic early shoppers on Saturday mornings at the Matakana Farmers Market,

Bruce Scoggins

13 December 1940 - 18 March 2022

and loved the cosy viewing offered in the cinemas.

His ability to bring disparate groups together and scrutinise projects and funding hinted at a different side of Bruce.

When Dr Bruce Scoggins died in March there was an outpouring of sadness for one of the finest science, research and health professionals this country has produced. He was a Research Fellow at the prestigious Howard Florey Institute of Experimental Physiology and Medicine, senior principal Research Fellow of the National Health and Medical Research Council, and the Gordon Meiklejohn Professor of Medicine in Denver, Colorado. Then for 15 years he was chief executive of the Health Research Council of New Zealand. He was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship and served on committees connected to the World Health Organisation and APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation).

Much of his work at the Health Research Council in New Zealand involved increasing the amount of research focused on improving health outcomes for children from deprived backgrounds, including Maori and Pacific Island children.

In retirement, he volunteered his skills, at least one day each week for 15 years, to Cure Kids, to support research improving the lives of children with serious health conditions.

He was always a kind man, says Suzanne, and a great mentor to his own children, both of whom have successful careers in London.

Originally from the UK, Bruce came to New Zealand

with his brother Keith when their parents Alan and Augusta Scoggins emigrated in 1950 – a huge adventure for a 10 year old boy.

His father was contracted to a Christchurch optician’s business for five years before starting his own business and moving to Rangiora.

One of Bruce’s most enduring memories of that time was his parents love of playing bridge. Both were formidable players, but their competitive arguing put Bruce and Keith completely off the game.

Bruce initially went to Lincoln University with the aim of becoming a vet. But after heading off to university in Melbourne to do his PhD, he became drawn more into human health and was offered a research position with the Howard Florey Institute, where he stayed for 20 years.

During this time Bruce met Suzanne at a party. While perhaps an unlikely pair, as Suzanne didn’t know anything about academia or the scientific world, and she had hated biology at school, they were married three months later, a union that lasted for 48 years.

“I thought he was a good catch.”

Bruce was always very dedicated to his work and was the classic absent-minded professor. He was also a great reader and would always read the Economist from cover to cover, never missing an issue.

He was also a great friend of this newspaper, contributing occasional columns and frequently writing letters to the editor. His involvement in the Warkworth community will be greatly missed.

Bruce is survived by wife Suzanne, children Warwick and Amanda, and six grandchildren.

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15

Mistaken identity sparks Russian racist letter The war in Ukraine has sparked a racist attack on a woman living in Snells Beach.

Margo Atkinson, who speaks with a heavy South American accent, has received an anonymous one page letter telling her to, “Hang your head in shame for the actions of your president”.

Margo is a NZ citizen who emigrated from Bolivia 22 years ago.

“I have no idea who would do this, but believe it must be someone who has heard my accent,” she says.

“I used to feel safe, but I don’t anymore.

When I am in my garden, I hear someone toot and wonder, ‘Is that someone saying hello or is that someone targeting me because they think I am Russian?’

“I can’t get over how absurd it is.

“Haven’t we got enough problems to focus on without creating a racist environment in NZ? “Even if I was Russian, racism is not okay.

A person can’t control where they are born, what their accent is or their government.

People need to find peace in their heart and stop hating one another.”

Warkworth Senior Constable Hamish Buick says this is the only case he knows of in the Mahurangi area, but anecdotally he

Snells Beach mother Margo Atkinson with the letter her husband found in the letterbox.

has heard of similar cases elsewhere.

He says the letter that Margo received has been taken as an exhibit and is being forensically examined.

“The matter is under inquiry,” he says.

“This sort of behaviour should not be

tolerated and if anyone else has been subjected to anything similar, I encourage them to come forward and let us know.

“It is beyond foolishness to detect an accent and make an assumption. Even if Margo was Russian, this behaviour is appalling.”

New owners support landfill project The change in ownership of Waste Management NZ, from Beijing Capital Group to Igneo Infrastructure Partners, will make no difference to plans to build a landfill just north of the Dome Valley.

Igneo senior communications manager Brenda White says Igneo supports Waste Management’s current projects, including the Auckland Regional Landfill proposal.

“We are of the view that Auckland is a growing city and urgently needs a new landfill to keep up with its waste generation,” she says.

“We note that Waste Management held an exhaustive search looking at over 75 different sites, and the site in the Wayby Valley was considered the best choice to minimise adverse environmental and amenity impacts.

“The modern landfill design captures all of the leachate, so there is no threat to the environment and to waterways. Waste Management has engaged extensively with the community and

tangata whenua, and incorporated their concerns into the design of the site. Under our ownership, Waste Management will continue to engage constructively with stakeholders.”

The project was granted resource consent with a majority decision by commissioners last year and that decision is being appealed by a number of parties through the Environment Court. The hearing is set down for July.

White says Igneo Infrastructure Partners supports Waste Managements’ view that this is vital infrastructure, which is critical for a city like Auckland to grow and to function.

According to the Igneo website, Igneo Infrastructure Partners is an unlisted infrastructure asset management business and is part of the First Sentier Investors Group, a global asset management business.

First Sentier Investors is ultimately owned by Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc, which is a Japanese bank holding and financial services company headquartered in Tokyo.

Netball finds temporary solution to court shortage

Netball Rodney has found a temporary solution to its lack of courts for the 2022 competition and a further two seasons.

Club representatives Karyne Ross, Lynette Gubb and Kelly Ayres told a Rodney Local Board meeting on April 20 that with a little TLC, the tennis courts at Centennial Park in Wellsford could be utilised.

This was necessary because of the poor state of the existing six netball courts – two were playable, two were marginal and two were unplayable due to lack of maintenance.

Ross said it could cost the association between $50,000 and $70,000 to repurpose the tennis courts.

“The condition of the asphalt isn’t too bad, but it will need tidying up and linemarking,” she said.

She said the club hoped to see a Netball Rodney Court Development Strategy start in November, as part of the Centennial Park Master Plan. The strategy would look at investment, court design, governance and operations, costs and funding, and an implementation plan. Ideally, new courts would be in place by March 2025.

The Board was told that there are more than 600 playing members, with 31% growth in juniors in the past five years. However, membership had been affected by both Covid and the poor quality of the courts.

Ross said netball needed to be local, affordable and accessible.

Regional parks

Auckland Council received 4684 written submissions on its draft Regional Parks Management Plan, which closed for consultation last month. Of the total, more than 3830 submissions were generated from a campaign website of which 3646 were identical. Mana whenua, individuals, and 82 organisations submitted on the plan, with Rodney residents topping the number of unique submissions (172).

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Don’t sweat the small stuff During Easter weekend, while I was listening to the traffic reports of snarl ups and reading the comments on Facebook about “bloody Aucklanders” coming up here causing the roads to be chaotic, it occurred to me that we do spend an awful amount of time worrying about things we have no control over. It was over this noisy Easter weekend backdrop, I also learned of the passing of two people I knew. One was a lovely lady who had been a volunteer at the Warkworth Information Centre, and the other a larger-than-life character who I knew through Toastmasters and the Warkworth Great Debate in past years.

The news of their passing helped put things into perspective for me. For the families of both lost loved ones, their lives have been abruptly changed and will never be the same. For them, trying to understand the why and the how to from here, while coping with the grief, will be their focus right now and all the other day-to-day noise of life will fade into the background.

This reality check doesn’t mean that we should stop working to solve the issues that affect our daily lives such as traffic and infrastructure, of course. As a business association we are committed to advocating for workable developments in infrastructure that will benefit economic growth in the area and build a strong community.

Reflecting over the Easter weekend, I was reminded again that in this life there are

things we can change and there are things we can’t. Should our time be spent on the things we can’t change, or is it time we shifted our focus to the things we can?

What if that small thing was getting more involved in your community, taking a role in the PTA, or joining Lions or Rotary Club? These community organisations desperately need new members, especially an infusion of younger people who want to serve their community. Joining a local club to volunteer is a great way to help enable change, support community, and make new friends along the way.

Perhaps another small act we can do is keep choosing to support our local businesses.

From retail to hospitality, to tradesman or accountant, choosing to use local is an action that supports the local economy and is worth investing in. Each day we get to make a choice. Do we sweat the small stuff, or do we really try to make a difference in any small way we can? All we really need to ask ourselves today is: what can I do to help?

I lost a good friend this week and my heart hurts for his family and all his friends. But he was a man who made the choice to try to make a difference. I want to be like him, so if you see me sweating the small stuff, feel free to remind me that making a difference matters. And to make a difference all I have to do is look for where I can contribute and let go of the rest.

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The people of Aotearoa are embracing the goal to eradicate four-legged predators from our land but when it comes to green pests – we’re not so enthusiastic. Weeds, shrubs, trees and climbers have escaped from our gardens, and hitched a ride into the wilderness on the wind, water, our socks or via bird poop. Unfortunately, removing weeds just isn’t as exciting as trapping a rat.

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Karyn Hoksbergen removing invasive ink weed.

The removal of problem plants is a never-ending task for volunteers, but it is rewarding. Since learning about invasive weeds, it makes my eyes water when I spot them thriving along roadsides, throughout reserves and along Kawau Bay’s coastline.

Weeds should be the next big thing for conservationists.

Last November, the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, Simon Upton, released a report, Space Invaders: A review of how New Zealand manages weeds that threaten native ecosystems.

The Commissioner recommended ways to improve the management of invasive weeds in New Zealand and called for improved national leadership to coordinate action.

While the powers that be discuss strategies, actions we can take are – check the weed status of plants before buying them from garden centres and stop sharing them with neighbours or chucking them onto seemingly unoccupied land. There are also plenty of weed eradicating opportunities with Tossi at Tāwharanui and other groups around the region.

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Know someone who deserves a big “thank you” for their community spirit? Tell us and they will receive acknowledgement in Mahurangi Matters and an amazing hamper from Chocolate Brown, 6 Mill Lane, Warkworth. Send your nominations to editor@ localmatters.co.nz (subject line: Sweet Appreciation) or post to: Sweet Appreciation, Mahurangi Matters, PO Box 701, Warkworth. Kindly refrain from nominating members of your own family.

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“We are particularly aware of the challenges faced by rural women, where

a lack of services, unreliable connectivity and distance add further complexity,” she says. “We’re disappointed not to see a rural health strategy included in the legislation, alongside the women’s health strategy.

Addressing inequity based on where a person lives is vital to ensure better health outcomes for all New Zealanders.

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Minister criticised for scallop beds decision

The group will also be involved in educating the community about the need for the trapping programme. Pictured with one of the traps is Alan France.

Grant extends Snells Beach pest project A plan to rid Snells Beach of pests has been boosted by a $2500 grant from the Predator Free New Zealand Trust.

Snells Shoreline Conservation Community will use the money to buy traps, which it intends to distribute to householders, initially between the beach and Mahurangi East Road. This will start towards the end of next month.

The group formed just over a year ago to rid the beach area of rats, mice and mustelids to help protect and improve the Snells Beach ecosystem, particularly for native birds.

Co-founder Alan France says one householder has caught 25 rats in three months, which demonstrates the need for the programme.

The group would like to see one trap in one of every five backyards in the neighbourhood.

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Snells Beach so that amounts to nearly 750 traps, so it will be quite an undertaking,” he says.

At $20 to $100 per trap, the latest grant will cover the purchase of about 50 traps. France says traps will be distributed for free, but recipients will be encouraged to give a donation to help fund the purchase of more traps.

Initially, the focus will be on protecting the shoreline.

Participants will also be given instruction and information on how to set the traps, health and safety, and recording their catches, and backup support will be provided.

The group is working in conjunction with Restore Rodney East and Auckland Council to target publicly owned land.

Possum traps are also being set on larger properties.

The big picture goal is to see a predator free Mahurangi Peninsula.

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Opponents of Fisheries Minister David Parker’s recent decision to leave Hauturu Little Barrier and the Colville Channel open for commercial scallop dredging, despite closing the rest of the Coromandel and Northland grounds, are not giving up their fight.

Iwi, conservation bodies, fishing groups and maritime organisations had been hopeful that the minister would place a blanket ban on scallop fishing across the Hauraki Gulf, not least since a rahui tapu was laid over the gulf at Tawharanui Regional Park on Waitangi Day by Ngati Manuhiri. Similar rahui in the past have led to the government placing temporary bans on fishing or shellfish harvesting to allow stocks to recover.

However, although Minister Parker conceded that the state of national scallop stocks was “parlous” and they needed drastic action to recover, he decided to allow some “limited ongoing harvest” using commercial and recreational dredging in those two local areas.

Sustainable fishing lobby group LegaSea said leaving the areas open was risky at best, as they were important spawning grounds, and criticised the minister for seemingly dismissing the community-backed rahui.

“We would like to see the minister close the remaining two beds and give all of the gulf a chance to recover quickly and reopen one day,” he said. “These areas are actually vital to the recovery of scallop populations around the wider Hauraki Gulf, the Eastern Coromandel Peninsula and also the Bay of Plenty.”

Ngati Manuhiri Settlement Trust chief executive Nicola McDonald said leaving the Hauturu and Colville Channel beds open was simply not acceptable.

“We cannot allow the continued depletion of our taonga species for commercial gain,” she said. “This is not something that we will accept in our rohe moana. It’s not enough until the whole of the gulf is protected.”

McDonald said Ngati Manuhiri had followed the placing of its rahui with a formal application to the minister for a temporary ban on scallop fishing in the Hauraki Gulf under Section 186a of the Fisheries Act, a process that was ongoing and would include public submissions.

“When public consultation becomes open, Ngati Manuhiri will be asking our communities, other mana whenua and stakeholders to write in support, so the minister is under no illusion that there are a large number of New Zealanders who feel as strongly about this as we do,” she said.

“In some ways, it’s fortunate that Ngati Manuhiri persevered and submitted the application because it gives us another opportunity to revisit this decision.”

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Mental health support If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, struggling to be motivated, feeling anxious, or generally exhausted, you’re not alone. Last month, the World Health Organisation reported that the pandemic has triggered a 25% increase in depression and anxiety worldwide. Our own country is said to be facing increasing challenges with mental health, the worst affected being women and youth.

Human beings are social creatures, who don’t do well alone and healing mental illness requires support. There are numerous ways this can be achieved, and certainly this small article will not cover them all. However, we also know that finding information or making a choice can be just as overwhelming, so the following is a brief guide on what is available in the Warkworth and Wellsford areas for mental health support, and when to contact services.

What should you do if someone you know is struggling with thoughts of harming themselves? If you are unable to get to them yourself, call the police on 111 and ask them to do a wellbeing check. You will asked for details, as well as those of the person you are calling about, in addition to phone numbers or a location. Or if you are with them and need emergency support, call the crisis assessment team on 09 427 0360.

In non-emergency situations, further resources and contact details for support services can be found on the Hearts and Minds directory (https://www. heartsandminds.org.nz/directory-of-supportservices), or The Mental Health Foundation website (https://mentalhealth.org.nz).

The Anxiety NZ Trust website (http:// www.anxiety.org.nz) has great resources and

workshops, and they also provide a free 24/7 helpline (0800 269 4389). There is also a Depression Helpline (0800 111 757) or website for information and help (http:// www.depression.org.nz/). And lastly, you can access the New Zealand mental health and addictions helpline for free counselling via phone or text messaging 1737.

As wonderful as online or phone services are for accessibility, it can often feel not as good as the ‘real’ thing. So, here’s a few local organisations providing support: • Abuse Prevention services (425 8130) offers individual and group therapy for family members living with violence and anger.

• The Women’s Centre (425 7261) also provides counselling, legal clinics, support groups, and programmes for learning new skills.

• Hestia is the local women’s refuge. They offer support for women and families leaving harmful relationships including temporary housing and in-community support.

• Age Concern Rodney (426 0916) provides support and resources for the elderly living alone • Te Ha Oranga is a free communitybased Māori mental health and addictions service (0800 MY TEHA or 423 6091) referrals need to come through your GP. • Homebuilders (425 7048) offers support for families, including counselling, WINZ information, advocacy and food parcels.

And if asking for help seems too much, please go and speak with your doctor about what you are experiencing.

Many local companies have contributed to the build. Project Manager Kevin Pyle speaks highly of these companies and their commitment to the project.

ATLAS Silverdale has produced and delivered all of the tilt slabs for the building.

ITSS Engineering stood up the tilt slabs, and have set the steel structure for the roof. The team has been paying close attention to detail to ensure perfection to the millimetre. This week they started work on the bridge across the foyer, and further steelwork on the roof structure.

Jacobson Projects have poured foundations and floor slabs for the building, meeting every deadline which has kept the project moving forward consistently.

This is particularly impressive given the current environment of various supplychain issues.

Davco Electrical Ltd. has risen to the challenge this community centre posed.

They have installed all the necessary services, ducts and wires on the property.

The building team is looking forward to working with Davco again when they are ready for the electrical fit-out.

Other local contractors who have contributed to the project include Mason Contractors Ltd., JG Wech Plumbing & Drainlaying Ltd., and Coast to Coast Painters Ltd. Continuing progress following the Easter break will see a set of precast stairs fitted in the office/kitchen area of the building, and also the placement of all remaining unispans supporting the first floor.

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This project is still requiring community funding support to achieve the goal of being debt free for the first two stages. If you would like to be involved please contact Brian Dangerfield at 021 672 500 April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

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identify and remove or mitigate fish barriers across the region,” Mansell said. “To date, we have identified more than 1000 barriers on Council-owned assets in Auckland. The Warkworth weir is one of those.

“At this stage, no decision has been made regarding the future of the weir as we are still in the information gathering stage. We understand that the weir has a long history and is valued by members of the local community.”

Mansell said there were still a number of phases to go through before a decision was made, but he expected that Council would be ready to present the final options for assessment in March next year.

“This will give us time to consider, evaluate and cost all options before making an informed decision.”

Groups interested in saving the historic Warkworth weir, near the Bridgehouse Hotel, may be making traction.

In 2020, Auckland Council’s position was that the weir would be removed and no further consultation would be undertaken.

Senior publicity officer Liz Kirschberg was quoted at the time, stating that once a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) to facilitate the weir’s removal was granted, which was essentially a “rubber stamp” exercise, the only thing preventing removal of the weir was the budget to do it.

However, Council appears to be rethinking its position.

Last week, sustainable outcomes programme manager Tom Mansell said a decision was still pending.

“Healthy Waters is undertaking work to

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to a positive result in 80 people with the remaining 20 receiving a false negative result. On the other hand, a clearly positive RAT test result is almost certainly a genuine result. RAT tests are better at detecting Covid-19 when people have developed symptoms. Therefore, they are recommended for people who feel unwell with Covid-19 symptoms or for those who live in the same household as someone who has Covid-19 (NZ Ministry of Health advice). RAT results are less reliable for people who don’t fit these categories.

In conducting a RAT test for yourself, the process of swabbing to ensure a good contact sample is taken from the lower part (2.5cm or one inch) of your nasal passages is probably the single most important step to achieve an accurate result. Other steps are also important, therefore, follow the kit instructions closely, time your test, delay the test until two days after Covid exposure and then repeat regularly during the following seven days. When a person is symptomatic and has a high population of virus in their system, RAT tests can be very accurate. When a person is in the early stages of infection, and there are low levels of virus in the nose and throat, RAT tests may fail to detect the virus.

Finally, if your test result is a surprise based on your prior expectation of a false positive or negative result, then take appropriate precautions and repeat the test on to two days later or have a PCR test done.

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With millions of Kiwis now checking their Covid virus status each day, it is important for the public to be aware of aspects of rapid antigen tests (RAT) including their limitations and the differences when compared with polymerised chain reaction (PCR) tests. Put simply, RAT tests are less sensitive but simpler and faster to conduct than PCR tests.

RAT tests employ artificial antibodies to detect Covid viruses. This type of test can be easily conducted by a person without any special training or expertise and do not require specialised expensive laboratory equipment. PCR tests, on the other hand, are much more sensitive than RAT tests but require analysis by professionals with technical training using specialised expensive laboratory equipment usually in large testing facilities. Because of these complications, PCR tests are also more time consuming and more expensive.

PCR tests involve amplification (that is, reproduction) of the genetic (DNA) material of the Covid virus via a molecular process known as polymerised chain reaction. Such genetic amplification, which gives PCR tests their sensitivity, is not possible with RAT tests.

Because RAT tests are less sensitive, they are prone in marginal cases to give more false negatives than PCR tests. To illustrate using a hypothetical situation, applying a RAT test with 80% sensitivity to 100 Covid-infected people would lead

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COURSES FOR TERM 2 2022 WARKWORTH

We are looking forward to a busy term at the Women’s Centre. Make sure you like us on Facebook - womenscentrerodney and check out our posts for all the latest news and happenings. Also follow us on Instagram @womenscentre_rodney.

A huge thank you to everyone who has been donating to the centre and supporting us in many ways. We are so grateful. www.womenscentrerodney.org.nz Personal Development Group Online via ZOOM Monday 2 May for 10 weeks, 10am - 12.30pm. FREE

An empowering support group for women offering resources to face life’s challenges and encouraging mindfulness & inner growth in a caring & confidential environment. The course will be run online via Zoom for Term Two. Facilitated by Heidi Downey

Young Mum’s Education Programme Thursday 5 May for 10 weeks, 10am - 12.30pm. FREE

For mothers up to 24 yrs. Make friends and explore strategies for raising healthy, happy children. Childminding & morning tea provided.

Facilitator: Sarah Woolford

“Walk and Talk” Guided Walking Group Every Monday, 10am at the Women’s Centre.

FREE

By supporting mothers to care for their babies, Immerse believes fewer children will be taken into care.

Foster parents needed for new mums and bubs initiative A new fostering programme that puts a baby’s mother as well as her child under the care of foster parents has been initiated

by North Shore-based charitable trust Immerse.

The Incourage programme is designed to keep babies who are at risk of being taken into care together with their mothers, by providing support for both mum and baby in special semi-independent foster homes.

The programme is being led by Immerse coach and support person Davina Laumea, who says the aim is to help and support mothers so they can learn to care for and nurture their children.

“The intensive work of Incourage is to repair, restore and rebuild mum to be the best parent for her baby,” she says.

“The goal is that she will eventually take full parental responsibility. We believe Incourage will reduce the number of babies being uplifted into care.”

Laumea says there has already been one successful case study, and a house has been made available where a foster couple can move in with further mum and baby pairings.

Now the trust is looking for new foster parents to join the programme from the Mahurangi and Hibiscus Coast regions.

“We’re looking for parents with lived experiences who can bring innate problem solving, a depth of empathy and a resilient approach, as there will be challenges along the way,” she says.

Potential foster parents also need to be able to commit to a minimum of six to nine

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Are you interested in a walking group leaving from the centre? Enjoy some exercise and have friendship and support and a cup of tea after the walk.

Workout Sesh

Every Friday, 10am at the Women’s Centre.

FREE

Come and do a variety of exercises including Zumba, Dance, Yoga and Bootcamp style. A good way to end the week having fun and fitness.

Sustainable Living – Waste Not Want Not Date and time to be confirmed: keep an eye on our website and Facebook page.

We will be running a sustainability course this term that will include gardening in our centre garden, cooking and reducing food waste, reducing rubbish, composting and much more. Make a difference to our planet and save yourself money.

“A Work in Progress” Self Reflection Series Tuesday 17 May for 6 weeks, 10am - 12pm at the Women’s Centre Have you experienced a major life change or been going through a tough period?? A relationship ending or loss of a job? Moved to the community or started a family? Our six week course with Kath Dix will support women to focus on healing, self-empowerment, building confidence and reconnecting after or during challenging times.

FREE Cervical Screening

Clinic date Tuesday the 10th May. Call or email for an appointment.

For women aged between 20 and 69 who are due for a smear test. Appointments are at the Women’s Centre with a specialist female smear taker. Also support with contraception. Part of the national cervical screening programme and run in conjunction with the Well Women and Family Trust.

FREE Legal Clinic

9.30 – 10.30 every third Friday. Bookings essential. 13 May, 3 June, 1 July. Book online or call us to make a booking. Phone and in person appointments are available.

FREE Counselling for Women (Phone or Online)

Six sessions available. Please call the Centre to discuss an appointment. 09 425 7261

FREE Lunchtime Lectures -

Keep an eye on the Website and Facebook Pages.

Volunteers -

We are keen for volunteers to help us at the centre.

Why not see if you can be involved.

Not sure if we offer a service for you?

Come and see us or call us anytime and see what we can do.

Davina Laumea is keen to find foster parents to help mums and babies.

months to the programme, while working together with Immerse and other specialist services.

Immerse was founded by a group of foster parents to develop specialist training and support to people fostering children whose lives have been scarred by trauma. The team is made up of social workers, trainers, coaches and support staff.

Info: Visit www.immerse.org.nz, call 09 282 3724 or 0508 367837, or email info@ immerse.org.nz

Bookings essential: Contact us on 09 425 7261 or 0800 2DROPIN (0800 237 674) Email: info@womenscentrerodney.org.nz • Book online at: www.womenscentrerodney.org.nz • Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/womenscentrerodney 10 Morpeth Street, Warkworth • OPEN 9.30am to 2.30pm Monday to Friday April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

23

feature mother’s day Fab four – from left, Feeling Fab founder Elizabeth Caines-York with regular volunteers Michelle Kennedy, Carol Collett and Angela Mills at the Warkworth wellness day.

Local charity offers relief from grief and a chance to share Nothing can prepare anyone for the trials of grief and trauma, but self-care and sharing your experience with those who understand can help to ease the path to recovery.

That’s a core belief behind Feeling Fab Foundation, a Dairy Flat-based charity that organises wellness days for women who have experienced bereavement, loss or trauma.

After two low-key years due to Covid-19 restrictions, the group is starting to increase the number and frequency of local events again, including a recent afternoon at the Warkworth Hotel on April 10.

Founder Elizabeth Caines-York says the aim of the sessions is to provide a safe and supportive space where women can reflect, share stories and bond over their shared experiences, while having feel-good treatments to give their morale a muchneeded boost.

She readily admits that most women who come along can be reluctant and often need a bit of coaxing to face a room full of strangers when they are still experiencing the immeasurable pain and intense process of grieving.

“We are here to help them to leave that blanket of grief and their worries at the door.

These days are about being heard and about finding yourself again,” she said. “Women can come here, get out of that deep, dark hole and feel better about themselves.”

Elizabeth knows only too well how horrendous bereavement can be. After her grandmother’s sudden death 24 years ago, her husband Allan died the next day in a road crash as he drove home to be with Elizabeth and their three young sons.

“You never think you’re going to be the one to get the knock on the door, but when I looked out of the window and saw the police and two victim support people, I knew,” she says. “From there, it was hell on earth. Grief is massive. It’s like childbirth – you don’t know what to expect. And whatever anyone tells you, it’s 50,000 times worse. If it wasn’t for my three boys, I wouldn’t have got out of bed.”

It took three years before Elizabeth felt strong enough to seek help and share her story, and she subsequently went on to run a grief support group herself for nine years.

“In 2014, a friend of mine asked me what

I missed most since losing Allan and I just said ‘feeling fab’, and I thought that’s it, that’s what I’ll do. I thought it was time to bring some joy back into my life and help others to do the same,” she says.

From working with one North Shore grief centre and running two events a year, Feeling Fab has expanded to provide several events a month, and works with more than 20 organisations in Rodney, Hibiscus Coast and North Shore, including Hospice, cancer charities, women’s groups, counselling services and funeral directors.

Feeling Fab is also extending its programme to include activities for men and young people and it has local teams in Warkworth and Mangawhai. However, the charity is reliant on the goodwill of its volunteers and sponsors to help make events happen.

“We get funding by begging, borrowing and almost stealing – no one’s ever been paid,” Elizabeth says.

Anyone can suggest a person who could benefit from a Feeling Fab day, providing they have the agreement of the recipient. It might be someone who has lost a partner or

child, or someone who is in palliative care themselves.

“We provide hairstyling, make-up, manicures and hand massage, goodie bags to take home and yummy food throughout the day. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet others who have had a similar experience and to make new friends,” she says. “Our team of volunteers have huge hearts and understand that those grieving need tender loving care in a safe environment, and we all feel blessed and honoured to have these ladies come along and tell their stories.

“Unfortunately, due to Covid, we’ve only been able to run seven events last year and eight the year before, but this year we are starting off with a bang with two for Harbour Hospice in Stillwater and Warkworth, where the venue was kindly donated by The Oaks.”

The next Feeling Fab wellness days will be at Dairy Flat on May 22 and in Mangawhai on May 23.

To learn more, make a donation, volunteer or suggest a recipient, visit www.feelingfab. org.nz or email feelingfab2010@gmail.com

What’s a perfect day at the Village? A coffee from The Roastery and a walk down the river, lunch made from beautiful local ingredients, shopping in our independently owned & operated boutiques, then dinner with a nice glass of local wine at the Vintry finishing your day with a movie in Auckland’s most beautiful cinema.

It’s an experience - and it’s open every day.

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| Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

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Rosie West with her Feeling Fab goodie box at the Warkworth Hotel.

Comfort in a shared experience Like many women who attend Feeling Fab sessions, Rosie Shaw of Mahurangi West was reluctant to go to the organisation’s recent wellness day in Warkworth. Her husband, Peter, died in August and it was only Warkworth Wellsford Hospice staying in contact with her since then that resulted in her hearing about the event and going along.

“I didn’t want to go,” she said. “But hospice rang me – they’re so caring, they keep in touch – and they said get yourself along to this. My response was if they’re kind enough to put this on, I should go.”

And, like many others before her, once she got there, she was glad she did. Any initial nerves were quickly dispelled and she left

with several phone numbers and a keenness to keep in touch with other attendees.

“I had a lovely day – I had my hair done, my nails done, and a massage. But it was more just meeting people and sharing with people who have been through the same as you,” she said. “It was nice to share with people with empathy, they were all interested and like-minded.

“You can’t blame people for not knowing what it’s like and, as much as you might try, you can’t understand grief unless you’ve been through it.

“You feel loved, which is important. I would definitely come again.”

Host a pink breakfast in May Residents in Mahurangi and Kaipara are being encouraged to host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast next month to support Kiwi women affected by breast cancer.

Pink Ribbon Breakfast is the Breast Cancer Foundation’s largest annual fundraising campaign. Each May, thousands of Kiwis come together to raise vital funds for the charity. As well as fundraising breakfasts, they host virtual events, hold bake sales, take on a challenge, run raffles, hold garage sales or just donate their daily coffee.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer for New Zealand women, with around 1030 women in the greater Auckland region diagnosed with it annually. The money raised from every Pink Ribbon Breakfast goes towards ground-breaking research, awareness and education programmes, and

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patient support services.

Foundation chief executive Ah-Leen Rayne says it doesn’t matter if your Pink Ribbon Breakfast or fundraiser is big or small, fancy or casual, homemade or store-bought – every effort makes a big difference for women living with breast cancer.

“Your generosity will take us closer towards our ambitious vision of zero deaths from breast cancer, so please, sign up to host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast this May,” she says.

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April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

25

InsideOUT has just released a series of print and online booklets aimed at helping schools to create rainbow-inclusive school policies and procedures, and make schools safer for trans, gender diverse, and intersex youth. Go to www.insideout. org.nz/resources/ Nearly half of all transgender and gender uncertain youth have experienced physical abuse at school.

Helping hand for Rainbow kids at school High school years can be pretty tough for kids who don’t feel they fit in. This can be even harder for rainbow youth, who will likely have figured out by14 their attractions are different to what they or their family might have expected, or that they don’t fit with the gender they were born with.

Wanting acceptance at school as they are can open them up to bullying and physical abuse.

A youth survey done in NZ in 2012 (the most recent survey available) showed that rainbow students were more than four times more likely to be hurt or subject to ongoing bullying at school, compared to others kids.

Transgender or gender uncertain kids, who make up about four per cent of students at high school, are especially likely to endure these higher levels of bullying, with nearly half being subject to some form of physical abuse at school.

Toilets and changing rooms are where the kids feel most uncomfortable and also where much of this bullying takes place, and this can lead to kids not going to the toilet at school, “holding on” until they get home.

This is unhealthy, managing director of

InsideOUT, Tabby Besley says, especially if they are also not drinking water in an effort to reduce the need for a toilet break.

InsideOUT is a non-profit charity that works to make young rainbow people feel safer and have a sense of inclusion in schools and communities in New Zealand.

They supply resources information and workshops concerning rainbow or LGBTQIA+ people to schools, workplaces and community organisations.

They have advised hundreds of schools across the country including Mahurangi College and Otamatea College, with their advice being sought more often these days from both primary and intermediate schools.

Urban schools are in contact more often than rural ones, Besley says. This may come down to rural communities being more conservative in nature, with kids less likely to want to come “out” to family or school.

Encouraging schools to provide toilets and changing rooms that align with different gender orientations is a part of what they advise, similarly with changing facilities.

This should be a private space such as a single stall or cubicle within a larger

changing room, or in a separate space or bathroom nearby.

InsideOUT also advises that students have a right to privacy around their gender identity, as well as teachers and others respecting wishes on using different names and pronouns at school. Inclusive dress codes and uniforms are also encouraged.

Homebuilders Family Support coordinator Quentin Jukes sees first-hand the struggles rainbow kids can have.

“How these kids are treated often comes from an out-of-date belief that people choose to be different rather than that’s how they are,” Jukes says, “This can see negative comments like they are ‘attention seeking’, which can really impact badly on young people who are already very vulnerable.”

Rainbow youth are five times more likely to take their own lives than others.

“The whole of society needs to get their act together and get over these bad attitudes.”

Mahurangi, Rodney and Otamatea Colleges did not respond to a request for comment on this story.

Kids can win flowers for Mum

One lucky Mum in the Wellsford area will be the winner of a beautiful big bouquet this Mother’s Day, thanks to a competition organised by local business group Wellsford Plus. The $100 bunch from Briar Rose Flowers in Warkworth will go to the mother of the child who comes up with the most convincing letter or picture depicting what makes their mum special and why she deserves a fabulous floral treat. Entries should be dropped into the wishing well inside Hobbs Gifts & Homewares at 163 Rodney Street from now until 4pm on Monday, May 2, when they will be judged by local author Theresa Sjoquist.

Celebrating

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ALL SERVICES ARE FREE 26

For further information talk to your LMC/Midwife or Warkworth Birth Centre. Phone 09 425 8201 56 View Road, Warkworth | www.warkworthbirthcentre.co.nz

| Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

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When the country went into lockdown last year, research group Te Pūnaha Matatini at Auckland University noticed a sharp increase in Covid-19 specific disinformation.

This included what is considered ‘dangerous speech’ – talk around gun control, antiMāori sentiment, anti-LGBTQIA+, conservative family ideals and structure, misogyny, and anti-immigration. All was related to far-right ideologies and white supremacy groups, and a lot of it US-based.

Te Pūnaha Matatini raised concerns this was a ‘kind of Trojan Horse’ trying to normalise and entrench these far-right ideologies in this country, which posed significant threats to ‘social cohesion, freedom of expression, inclusion and safety’. There has also been a big increase in the amount of online misogyny aimed at Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, other women politicians and women in positions of authority.

A recent Australian Government report ‘Women in the spotlight: Women’s experiences with online abuse in their working lives’ found female politicians and media personalities were targeted for gender, appearance or being working mothers. A third of Australian working women with an online presence had also been targeted, mostly by strangers on social media, and mostly on Facebook.

Facebook is Rodney Local Board deputy chair Beth Houlbrooke’s platform of choice, and she saw a big increase in nastiness during lockdowns, mostly around comments on her physical appearance. She did a lot of blocking and is rethinking how much time she spends online. She is concerned other local women could be put off public office after seeing the comments.

Labour-list MP Marja Lubeck says all forms of misogyny are unacceptable with a need to call out bad behaviour when it is seen.

“Unfortunately, there is no simple fix to overcoming sexism but societal change is

possible. People need to understand and acknowledge the harm it can do and call it out for what it is,” she says.

Video essayist focusing on far right and conspiracy theory scene in New Zealand, Byron Clark doesn’t believe this abuse is aimed at keeping women out of positions of authority, but it has that effect. He cites scientist Siouxsie Wiles, a prominent voice on Covid 19, who was vilified online.

He says white supremacy and misogyny often originate from the same place, with white men who feel that other groups have usurped them from positions of power that they feel entitled to. Misogyny is a core part of far-right ideology and in far-right spaces, feminism is often blamed for the downfall of western civilisation, alongside “gender ideology” and “cultural Marxism”.

But it has become so normalised online, he believes it’s now a bigger issue than just from extremists.

“I think there’s a wider conversation to be had about whether the tools available such as Netsafe and the Harmful Digital Communications Act (HDCA) are adequate for addressing this problem or whether more or different tools are needed,” Clark says.

Netsafe offers advice if content falls outside the HDCA. Even if it falls within the Act, it can only try to resolve things like doing take-down requests, mediation, or referring to another agency.

The District Court has stronger powers.

It can order that material be taken down, issue cease and desist orders, and identify the person behind anonymous communications.

Fines of up to $50,000 for an individual or $200,000 for a body corporate can be imposed with a two year jail term for posting with intent to cause harm, increasing to three years for incitement to suicide. But this all takes time and effort that many people don’t have.

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April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

27

CELEBRATING OUR BUSINESS LEADERS Alyssa qualified as a Physiotherapist in 2009 and became the owner of Active+ Warkworth & Snells Beach in 2016.

What advice would you give to a young woman setting up her own business?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Seek clarification of things you don’t understand. Speak to other business owners – even if their business is completely different.

There is so much to learn from other industries, and it can really help you think outside the box and create your own point of difference!

Work into your best body with Pilates

+

+ Physio

What gave you the confidence to go out on your own?

As a young planner and having gone on parental leave, I was supported strongly by other professionals including a very successful local engineer and female landscape architects, all of whom I retain friendships with 20 plus years later. These people gave me the courage and support to start my own business. In fact, they told people I was starting a business before I had fully decided to do so and boom, I was busy straight off the bat.

+ +

Pilates

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Rehab

If you have children, how difficult has it been to + Physio + Pilates + Rehab Kickwork start year balance andyour family fitness life? Whatthis would haveby coming in to see the team made easier? atitActive+ Warkworth and Active+ Snells Beach for a 30min Finding a work/life balance was something I really Pilates with of our qualified Pilates instructors. struggled withsession the first few yearsone of business ownership.

Two years ago a concussion injury forced me to step back in a big way, and our team really stepped up. It made me Physiotherapy realise I didn’t have to be doing it all – I had a great team who were super capable, willing to help, and understanding the fact I have a family to care for Pilatesofclasses as well.

What do you want to achieve next?

Rehabilitation I’m personally planning to complete my Lymphodema Therapist training later in the year, and I’m looking registered clinic therapy forward toACC being able to offer lymphodema services within our region. As a business we will firstly build backNo up from Covid, and then I amneeded aiming to doctors referral increase our physiotherapy and occupational therapy services and the accessibility of these to our community.

Active+ Warkworth Warkworth Health Centre, 5/23 Percy St ph 09 425 7698 warkworth@activeplus.co.nz

Pilates session

CONDITIONS: for the mo nth Alyssa Gordon Va of Feb lidruar fory Feb and Mar an

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Active+ Snells Beach 336 Mahurangi East Rd ph 09 425 4433 snellsbeach@activeplus.co.nz

What advice would I give a young woman setting up her own business?

Know precisely what it is you want to create and gather an excellent team around you. The best piece of advice I can give, and I can’t state this strongly enough is “DON’T BURN YOURSELF OUT” !!!!! Always look to the long game, so give yourself breaks, delegate to your team and remember Rome wasn’t built in a day (now if I’d only take this advice myself).

How have you navigated Covid?

Never having encountered a pandemic before I had no alternative but to roll with the punches. The 8.55 to Cairo opened its doors almost exactly 3 weeks before the long lockdown, so we closed up shop and went home to binge Netflix/pies, etc like everyone else. With no website for online sales, trading halted. I then had to decide how to navigate the various vaccination and mask issues, so instituted protocols to protect everybody regardless of their views. It’s impossible to please everyone and is definitely a contentious issue for many. We clean our Eftpos keypad between transactions and I’m sure this helps with not passing on all manner of bugs. HOT TIP….. if a keypad has not been cleaned before you use it, type in your PIN using a corner of your Eftpos card or the tip of a car key. I’m going to keep doing this, pandemic or 2A Kapanui Street, Warkworth no pandemic. jenny@the855tocairo.co.nz

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What do you want to achieve next?

and receive 50% off a foam roller

What gave you the confidence to go out on your own?

I’ve had my own business previously, so knew what was involved. A very supportive hubby and a clear vision of what I wanted the store to be, made it a very straight forward process. My family and friends were fabulous too. I picked their brains and bombarded them with questions. They were amazing. My background as a Registered Nurse has always stood me in good stead when it comes to looking calm while wondering what in God’s name was going to happen next. (LOL)

Rachel Cooney

I think being a woman in business, having to balance family life and business activities, makes you superefficient and organised, otherwise you cannot really do it.

My children learned to be independent pretty early on. It was often hard, and certainly tiring, but my children and I were just clear that we were a team and we had to make it work together. My business has given us choices and lots of great adventures.

B O OK a 30min 1:1

www.activeplus.co.nz

Jenny Mitchell

Do you think there are any advantages to being a woman in business and if so, what are they?

Burnette O’Connor Planner | Director

Rebuilding my business again from scratch in 2019 has been challenging with needing to procure and train staff during COVID. I am blessed to have a great team that grew and strengthened during COVID. The next step is to grow staff within the business; expand our team – numbers and skills wise, so that I can step back a bit in a few years’ time and we retain a strong healthy business providing quality, cost effective planning services.

info@thepc.co.nz | +64 21 422 346 | www.thepc.co.nz

it always seems impossible until it’s done.

Getting pregnant in my last year of university was a turning point in my career. I recall fondly, Margaret Wilson telling me that having children would prove to be a defining moment and she was correct as it meant that to succeed in law and be a mother I would need to have my own business so I could do things my way. Having children and running a law firm has been challenging but I have always had a fantastic team around me and have been very fortunateNelson to work with amazing clients who value our Mandela expertise and who also value whanau. Unfortunately there is still a glass ceiling for many wahine working in law however at times being a woman has been advantages as often you are under estimated until the deal has been concluded! My advice to any woman who wants to have their own business is to stay true to you, don’t follow the crowd and don’t be afraid to make your own mark. As Script sang – “you gotta stand for something or you'll fall for anything” Stephanie Paxton-Penman LLB (Hons) Stephanie Paxton-Penman LLB (Hons) stephanie@ppetal.co.nz stephanie@ppetal.co.nz 17 Neville Street, Warkworth 17 Neville Street, DDI: 09 425 0968Warkworth | Phone: 09 425 7701 DDI: 09 425 0968 | Phone: 09 425 7701 Auckland Office Auckland Level 5, 26Office Hobson Street, Auckland CBD Level 5, 26 Hobson Street, Auckland CBD Phone: 09912 9128500 8500 Phone: 09

2A Kapanui Street, www.the855tocairo.co.nz Warkworth | 021 129 1611 Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, jenny@the855tocairo.co.nz | www.the855tocairo.co.nz Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat Sat 10am-5pm, 10am-5pm, Sun Sun 10am-2pm 10am-2pm

How have you navigated Covid?

COVID was really tough for us, as it was for everyone. New Zealand law required us to check vaccine passes and I decided that I would be the person to sit at the gate, checking passes and welcoming people in.

The advantage to having a woman on the door is that I don’t look like a bouncer. I’m friendly and nice and look totally unthreatening. It gave me the opportunity to greet people as they were entering my business and make them feel welcome. When you make your customers feel important and valued they tend to come back!

What do you want to achieve next?

Our focus is local. The Tahi Bar is very much a local ‘hang-out’ and it’s where a lot of community events take place. Where newcomers to the area can come to make new friends. The number of friendships and relationships that have started at The Tahi is wonderful. And that gives me great joy. I love that we’re helping build communities.

Our focus on local is also about the products we offer. We specialise in craft beer, cider and fine wines from around the Warkworth and Matakana areas. Looking forward I’d like to do more regular ‘live’ events. When we’ve got a great band, really giving it their all, and the crowd is overjoyed and dancing and singing along there’s nothing else quite like it.

1 Nev ille S tre e t, Warkwor th W W W.T H E TA H I .COM

CELEBRATING OUR BUSINESS LEADERS What gave you the confidence to go out on your own?

I had approximately 40 years experience in several different businesses and not for profit organisations, raised 4 children and knew I had the experience to succeed.

ata 997 M

kana Road. Ph 09 422 7 105

When did you realise you wanted to be your own boss?

I knew I had the confidence to do this as I found communicating with people very easy. What I didn’t know was when and if this opportunity would arise. I was very nervous to start with 40 years ago, but I felt that I could be a boss and treat my staff like my friends. Actually I would like to have been a Primary School Teacher.

What gave you the confidence to go out on your own?

I am rather an independent woman and so the confidence just happened really.

I was encouraged by my family and friends which helped knowing that they were behind me with their support.

What are some of the struggles you’ve faced being a woman in business?

Probably the main thing in this trade,

What are some of the struggles you’ve faced being a woman in business?

Gay Smith

is the knowledge I have that is challenged by males.

This can be frustrating, but over the years I have learnt to just take it in my stride. Often they come back and thank me for the help I have given them.

What does being a woman in these times mean to you?

It means that women can be successful in their choice of business careers now, yes we can do it and stand up to the challenge ahead. What I have really enjoyed and am grateful for is being part of a small community that is very vibrant and supportive.

Jacqueline Ironside

When did you realise you wanted to be your own boss?

I was on holiday visiting my family in Kenya in 2005, my Uncle had taken me to a safari park and we were sitting by the pool, discussing the pros and cons of him purchasing a business. After sharing my thoughts and business valuation analysis with him, he asked me why I was still an employee and why I didn’t own a business for myself. I really respected him and this gave me the confidence to think about becoming my own boss.

It was really difficult when I first started working. Equal pay had only just been brought in, there was prejudice for working mothers who put their children in day care, and men got promoted. I was once told I would never make a manager!! Certainly not confidence building stuff. However as times have changed, I have encountered less struggles, certainly since starting my own business.

What does being a woman in these times mean to you?

I think I have been a great role model to my children and women in general. The accounting profession is slowly changing to have more women owners, having previously been male dominated. I think women bring a holistic approach to the profession as we understand the dynamics of business ownership and balancing work and family life.

P 09 973 3620 E jacqueline@kgaww.co.nz 54 Whitaker Road, Warkworth 0941

www.kgaww.co.nz

We know holiday pay & payroll data.

INTRODUCING ResolvePay

Managing Director Kathleen Webber…

When did you realise you wanted to be your own boss?

I started my first dog walking business when I was 12.

Fast forward to my mid 20s, I was working in a large, old-school consulting firm and thought…what have I got to lose starting my own business. ResolvePay was born out of the idea of making the complex, simple. Our core focus is holiday pay, helping our clients solve the challenges that the Holidays Act presents.

Kate Sheehan

What gave you the confidence to go out on your own?

I come from a long line of ‘go-getting’ women and have an amazing husband and parents who have always backed me. Every time we get a new client, or when we won our business award last year, I feel even more confident in what I’m doing.

What are some of the struggles you’ve faced being a woman in business?

I think like any parent who runs a business, the juggle can be a challenge.

I love the analogy of juggling glass and plastic balls. Sometimes the glass balls are family, sometimes they’re work. You can drop the plastic balls, but never the glass; it’s all about prioritising.

Kathleen Webber Managing Director | ResolvePay 0800 425 015 www.resolvepay.co.nz

What does being a woman in these times mean to you?

It’s being who you are, being the woman that you are, without fears or judgment. It’s being successful not in a materialistic way but in a way you want to be.

To me feminism empowers women to achieve their goals, whatever they may be its a positive force in their lives.

Samantha Ryburn

021 466 716 66 Matakana Road, Warkworth

When did you realise you wanted to be your own boss?

I’ve always been attracted to the idea of being my own boss but I think it really hit me when wanting to get back into work after having 3 kids. It’s a real juggle to fit anything in between school pickup/drop off times and after school commitments plus if the kids are ever sick, so to be able to work around all that really takes the pressure off.

What gave you the confidence to go out on your own?

Confidence is something most people would say I have too much of so that was never an issue. I also have an

Do you have a mentor and if so who and why?

My mentor would be my father.

Growing up my father ran his own successful business and I take a lot of my attributes from him.

He has taught me most of what I know, excelling me through business with his knowledge and support.

incredible group of fiercely supportive women around me and a husband who’s always telling me to go for it so the moment I said I was thinking of it we started to make it happen.

What are some of the struggles you’ve faced being a woman in business?

I’ve really had no struggles being a woman in business, if anything I think people are more supportive. Especially when they know I’m also a mum. There’s a real change in attitude towards it these days. No more frowning down or how does she do it just “yeah girl, get it”. I’ve been blown away by the respect and support to be honest.

What do you want to achieve next?

After owning my salon for four years and building a successful clientele, I would love to educate clients on hair, skin and beauty with our La Biosthetique products.

Inspired by nature, a holistic and prescriptive range with passion for quality, a culture of total beauty concept. I am wanting to advance in make up and beauty as my next step.

09-425 0251 18 Baxter Street, Warkworth www.facebook.com/ MirrorsHairBoutique

29

feature mother’s day

Spoil Mum! Let us take care of Mum this Mother’s Day. We’ll be open & delivering on the day (Sunday 8 May).

Ph: 09 425 9016

Email: florist@briarroseflowers.co.nz Facebook: @BRFlowersWarkworth Website: BriarRoseFlowers.co.nz Address: 5 Queen Street, Warkworth

The 12 pieces in the exhibition are all self-portraits.

First solo exhibition for artist

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30

| Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

Polish born artist Julia Krystyna will hold her first solo exhibition at the Matakana Smokehouse, on the corner of Matakana and Sharp Roads, next month.

The exhibition will showcase 12 pieces of art within 12 handmade hardwood picture frames.

Krystyna’s mixed media style uses fine line and dot work, as well as dried leaves and flowers, and wood shavings.

“It’s very textual and gives a 3D effect,” she says. “The hardwood frames are made from scratch using reclaimed materials.

Every step of the process, from sanding the wood to cutting the glass, was done by me.

“This collection of art represents the last year of my creative journey.”

Although Krystyna studied economics and worked as a professional chef for 11 years, her decision to focus on art during the past 12 months is not surprising.

“I grew up in a creative environment in Katowice, southern Poland, where my father was an artist and sculptor and my mother was a performance artist.”

Julia Krystyna

Krystyna, who moved to Matakana a year ago, says the exhibition opening on Friday, May 13 at 5pm will be a celebration of all things local, with local food and beverages and live music.

The exhibition will be open on Saturday and Sunday, May 14 and 15, from 1pm onwards.

AT 2 LOCATIONS WARKWORTH ANGLICAN HALL ST LEONARDS CHURCH 43 Percy Street, 25 Matakana Valley Road, Warkworth Matakana Starting Monday 9 May (NEW) Starting Wednesday 11 May 3.30-4.15pm | 4.30- 5.15pm 3.15-4pm | 4.15- 5pm Starting Tuesday 10 May 3.30-4.15pm | 4.30- 5.15pm TO BOOK A SPACE FOR YOUR CHILD CONTACT NINA 021 679 512 | children@warkworthanglican.nz SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WILL BE FOLLOWED UNDER THE CURRENT COVID PROTECTION FRAMEWORK!

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Books

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The Match by Harlan Coben Harlan Coben always delivers a good solid thriller, and The Match is no different. Our lead protagonist is Wilde, who has grown up never knowing who his family is. He was found as a young boy living wild in the mountains of New Jersey. On a whim, he provides DNA to a ‘find your relatives’ database and is contacted by an anonymous family member. However, this potential family member disappears before Wilde can meet them and Wilde then gets pulled into delving deeper into this disappearance.

Things start heating up when a secret community that exposes online trolls gets involved. People are being targeted and murdered, and Wilde is unsure who to trust as the police suspect he’s the murderer. The characters are well fleshed out with a love triangle simmering in the background. Excellent and entertaining read.

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The Anomaly by Herve Le Tellier Le Tellier starts this story with a contract killer and then the reader meets a series of unconnected characters. A lawyer, an author, an architect – all living their lives, falling in love, writing a novel and so on, and it left me wondering what the connection was. Then we find that they were all on an Air France flight from Paris to New York. The plane was badly damaged in a freak storm, but the plane landed and the passengers were fine and continued with their lives. The ‘aha’ moment happens three months later when the same plane lands in New York with the same people on board … exactly the same. The plane was somehow duplicated during the storm and when the second plane lands, this naturally sends the world into a spin. Are aliens involved? Was it a wormhole? Is God playing games or are we all characters in a giant programme? This plot twist and the ramifications are fascinating. The Anomaly is clever and gripping, and has won the Prix Goncourt, a prize in French literature which is awarded to the best and most imaginative prose work of the year.

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Creatives and innovators with ideas for the post-Covid recovery of the arts and culture sector are encouraged to attend one of three Te Urungi: Innovating Aotearoa events to be held online for Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. The events will be held on April 30 and May 1, May 7 and 8, and May 28 and 29. Te Urungi is a an opportunity for people to get support to fine-tune their ideas and proposals.

Over two days, participants will be guided to develop projects that improve sector sustainability and resilience, access and participation, and take advantage of commercial opportunities. Individuals or teams who work in arts, culture and heritage, as well as those in the science and tech sectors, or from kaupapa Māori, entrepreneurial, community groups, and other initiatives are encouraged to apply.

In most cases, projects need to demonstrate broader sector reach and impact to receive funding.

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31

Further expansion of the Harbours Edge orchard is planned.

New avocado venture smashing it With trees on the massive avocado orchards at Tapora maturing, they are starting to produce large quantities of fruit.

One of three orchards in the area – Harbour Edge Avocado, west of Wellsford – currently has 155ha planted.

Up until now, the fruit coming off the orchard has been going through the capsicum packhouse at Southern Paprika on Woodcocks Road.

With local grower Hamish Alexander having financial interests in both businesses, and peak production of both crops at different times during the year, this system has worked well up until now.

But the amount of fruit has now become too much for the packhouse to handle.

Southern Paprika manager Blair Morris says volumes will only increase as the trees get older and produce more. On top of this, new planting on the 400ha orchard will be ongoing.

To maintain the Woodcocks Road site as the packing centre for both crops, a new 2500 square metre packing shed has been built. The capsicum operation has moved into this building, with the vacated 2000sqm shed being upgraded to handle the avocados for the upcoming season that starts properly in July.

The avocado packhouse is the only one in the Auckland region, with others being at Kerikeri and Whangarei, and the rest further south around the largest avocado producing area, the Bay of Plenty.

Morris says avocados have become a commodity globally, so they need to be able to produce high quality fruit, have consistency over the year and at the lowest price possible.

The proximity to the Auckland market gives easy access

into both the local and overseas markets, he says.

To take full advantage of this proximity, and to help reduce costs, Harbour Edge Avocado is joining forces with Valic NZ of Kings Avocado, which has a 150ha avocado orchard, and Furlong Orchards, with a 400ha orchard in Hohora, in the far north.

They are starting a joint venture marketing company to cover the three avocado brands, with avocados produced on the three properties packed at Southern Paprika.

The new operation is looking to pack up to 1.5 million trays of fruit this year – about 20 per cent of the national crop. This will eventually ramp up to three million trays.

Expansion on site comes with a $1 million price tag with as much again expected to be outlaid as the avocado operation expands in future.

Currently, 60 per cent of fruit is exported with 40 per cent retained in the domestic market, Morris says.

“The Auckland market has been somewhat neglected, as most top grade (grade 1) fruit are generally exported.

This year we also intend to supply grade 1 fruit into the Auckland market.”

Currently, capsicums for the domestic market go to Woolworths and Foodstuffs, and the avocados will do the same.

To get the new packhouse up and running, Nathan Henderson, formerly packhouse manager at NTL Horticulture in Whangarei, has been brought on board.

Southern Paprika currently employs 165, with 35 new staff being sought for the avocado packing house.

While the packing jobs are seasonal, because of the overlap of the two crops, management staff will be able to shift

There will be a big focus on the Auckland market says Southern Paprika manager Blair Morris.

between the two operations.

This overlap should also help local packhouse workers, with more continuous months of work at the site.

The avocado industry is worth about $145 million in export and domestic market earnings.

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32

| Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

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History Rose Reid, Albertland Museum www.albertland.co.nz

Remembering Anzac The Albertland Museum would like to honour Ernest Martin Davies this Anzac Day. After recently opening a treasure box of his wartime diaries, photographs and letters, he now holds a special place in our hearts. Born in Devonport in 1895 to John and Mary Davies, the family moved to Wellsford when Ernest was young. He attended Port Albert School, then worked for Morrison & Sons in Warkworth as a nurseryman/orchardist, until enlisting with the New Zealand Army in December 1914. After basic training, he left our shores to fight in April 1915.

Upon reading his small pocket diaries, the entries were meticulously written, detailing his time in the NZ Field Artillery while serving in Egypt, the Balkans and France.

Each entry was written in fountain pen or pencil, and he described the weather, chance meetings with boys he knew from Port Albert and the hardships he endured while being bombarded by enemy fire on the front line. He found himself, aged 21, working as a cook in the officers mess and described how he would pack up the cookhouse onto a wagon ready to shift to a new position after being woken at 3am to prepare breakfast before departing. After falling ill in January 1918, he was taken to Connaught Hospital in England and while recuperating, he helped to prepare hospital meals. Learning how to make pickled French beans gave him great delight.

Visitors from the NZ War Contingent Association gave him an introduction to needle working and he spent many hours making table runners and other items to send home to his mother.

A leave pass was usually issued at very short notice and Ernest would head off for a few days, either to Paris or London, and he would take in tourist attractions such as the Grand Arch, Notre Dame, Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London, not to mention endless visits to the cinema.

Ernest was a prolific letter writer and always responded immediately to anyone who wrote to him, often returning a snapshot of places he visited when on leave. His mother

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Ernest Martin Davies

received packages containing his diaries, keepsakes and letters for safekeeping until his return home. Sometimes he would send a ‘whiz bang’, a field service postcard that made it easy to stay in touch with loved ones. These postcards earned their nickname from the light calibre German shells that arrived on the battlefield with little warning. The solider would scratch out phrases not required and they were destroyed by censors if anything was added to them. The last item in his treasure box was a postcard to his Mum in March 1919 to say that after three years and 364 days he was on his way home. He made it and died in 1987.

Rebus revs up after Covid With club routines returning to normal after the Covid-19 disruptions, Warkworth Men’s Rebus Club is extending an invitation to retired and semi-retired men in the area to join its activities.

The club meets formally every third Monday of the month at Shoesmith Hall, as well as holding social get-togethers and occasional lunches.

About 18 members and friends attended a recent coffee morning at Sheepworld, where Springboard founder Gary Diprose gave a short talk about the work that Springboard does with young people. The next coffee gathering is planned for May 4.

The next formal meeting will be on May 16, where the group hopes to hear from a Watercare representative on the improvement works in Lucy Moore Park

www.localmatters.co.nz

What you will bring to Hynds: • Customer service experience advantageous • Experience operating a forklift an advantage or full training will be provided • Current Full Driver's License • Class 2 licence an advantage • A reasonable level of physical fitness.

Why join Hynds: • Southern Cross medical cover • Values focused and supportive environment • Ongoing learning & development opportunities • Forklift accreditation Who we are: Founded in 1973, Hynds is New Zealand's premier product supplier for the management of water and water-based waste in the civil and rural infrastructure markets. Hynds remains proudly family-owned and has built its reputation on customer service and innovation.

We are committed as a team to helping our customers succeed and believe in the Hynds Values to guide the way. Hynds is a place where people matter, where we do what's right and where we connect with our customers.

Pre-employment checks: Hynds are committed to high levels of health and safety for our team.

Therefore, all candidates will be expected to pass a pre-employment alcohol and drug screen test, along with satisfactorily passing a medical and criminal history check. Applicants will be expected to provide evidence of legal eligibility to work in NZ. Hynds supports the Government vaccination programme to help protect us all against Covid-19. Applicants will be expected to provide evidence of Covid-19 vaccination as part of our recruitment process.

The Rebus Club coffee morning at Sheepworld gave members an opportunity to learn more about Springboard’s work in the area.

Interested? Then APPLY NOW! Visit: hyndsjobs.co.nz

and the pipeline to Snells Beach. Meetings start at 10am. New members welcome.

Info: Club secretary Bob Dye on 425 0089.

April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

33

Countryliving Julie Cotton

admin@oceanique.co.nz

The trailer debate When my children were much younger, and I had them all at home, we were given the most unfortunate and embarrassing moniker, the “trailer family”. A trailer was like our permanent, but necessary little wart that always attached to my family car. Much needed back in the day to carry our purchases that were overflowing once I had squished all seven family members into the vehicle. As the years flew by, and the children gained more independence and the car gained more space, our little wart on the back of the car diminished somewhat and we suddenly found ourselves being able to park in single car bays out the front of shops – it was glorious. However, with a sharp direction change in our life, I suddenly find that little wart re-attaching itself to the back of our vehicles on a more constant basis and I am once again being dragged along for the ride. Practicality aside, I honestly believe that my husband likes dragging trailers around. It’s like one of those “men and their lawnmower” type things; a bloke thing.

Lately the trailer has been full to the brim, and with long distances to travel I once again catch myself dutifully listening to hours of what I have affectionately coined as his “trailer porn” conversations. Axles, drawbars, tyres and tie-down points are his preferred topics, in-between those frequent stops to check the load. Strop and rope banter can also prove to be riveting entertainment. Word of warning though, don’t buy the cheap ones, they have the capacity to induce all sorts of traumatic lunatic behaviour from the driver when they break. On one trip, when he thought my interest in trailers might be waning, he cheekily tried to compare the tare weight and tie-down points of a trailer to woman’s bra – don’t be ridiculous, Rodney!

I have a personal aversion to driving with a trailer and the idea of reversing them overwhelms me with fear. Strangely, I have always likened reversing trailers to rugby, that whole irrational concept of turning the wheel one way only to have the trailer shoot in a different direction seems alarmingly similar to running forward with the ball but passing it backwards! So, with excess trailer movements having crept back into my life, it was decided that I needed some lessons, in case I ever got thrust into the life and death situation of needing to reverse one.

We set out a little obstacle course in the paddock and I got to select my weapon of choice. I bypassed the single axle cage trailer and opted for the “big boy” with the double axle and long drawbar, because size matters, right? Driving forward and weaving through the obstacles I had a dream run, primarily because I employed

the supa-scientific methodology of pretending the trailer was not attached!

Now to do the reverse. With my husband coaching from the sidelines, I felt I was in good hands. I had seen him reverse a trailer within an inch of his life, so I was a willing participant in his bossy tutorial.

In the ute, and slowly reversing, it felt like I was in a scholastic blur, a flurry of testosterone induced wafting yelps from my husband. Left hand down, right hand down, forward and reverse. My errored attempts to reverse in between the first obstacles were mounting, as were the tone irregularities of my husband’s vocal instructions. I could feel us both getting extremely frustrated at my outcomes and, unfortunately, this led to the rapid degradation of the lesson. Rolling fits of hysterical laughter were quickly being replaced with his genuine concern for the vehicle and trailer, and my frustration

at not being able to process the simple concept of opposites and basic instruction.

To be fair, I think I was riding the clutch, but the stupid thing kept stalling if I didn’t.

So, I tried, and then I tried some more, but I honestly felt like there were way too many factors working against me, namely the trailer, ute, obstacles, husband and, of course, me! The lesson culminated in me running over a cone and “jack-knifing” the trailer, after which I decided to abandon the mission before all-out war broke out in the paddock. Sadly, I have now decided that trailers are just not my thing, much in the same way that clothes shopping in the city doesn’t float my husband’s boat. I am happy to leave trailer wrestling to all you experts out there, or until they invest in one that turns the same direction as the frigging steering wheel. In the meantime, I get to keep my sanity and my new nickname, the “trailer wife”, hee hee.

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| Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

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Culture of complaint swamps Council compliance officers

By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter. Funded by NZ On Air

The number of complaints or “requests for service” being fielded by Auckland Council compliance officers is unsustainable, according to a report presented to Council’s Regulatory Committee on April 12.

Theoretically, if the team was fully staffed, each officer would have to work 123.2 hours a week to get through the caseload, the Achieving Regulatory Compliance, Prioritisation and Resource Allocation report stated.

Council’s Compliance Response and Investigations team is tasked with dealing with complaints relating to potential breaches of the Resource Management Act, Building Act and council bylaws.

The team comprises about 65 staff. It is part of the Licensing and Regulatory Compliance Department which currently comprises about 430 people divided into six units. The department undertakes a range of functions including animal management, food and alcohol licensing and compliance. In addition to the noise team, it is made up of four geographically based teams (north, west, central and south), a regionally focused team and an investigations team which undertakes prosecutions.

On average the annual number of complaints in some key areas are: • Resource Management Act, Building Act and bylaws – 15,000 • Dog Control Act – 32,000 • Noise (under the Resource Management Act but recorded separately) – 60,000.

At the meeting, the committee voted seven to four to approve an updated categorisation and prioritisation of complaints matrix.

The matrix, which helps to manage the workload, has four separate categories – P1 and P2 complaints must be attended to quickly while P3 matters are dealt with as resources allow and P4 complaints mean compliance staff are unlikely to respond.

Licensing and regulatory compliance general manager James Hassall said that often, P4 complaints were not compliance issues.

“Sometimes it is neighbours complaining about a boundary line,” Hassall said. “Part of the problem comes from the public not knowing what the compliance team does.”

Hassall said the number of complaints was increasing by about five per cent annually and was expected to rise by 15% in the next few years as Tāmaki Makaurau’s population grew.

Hassall said the complexity of complaints

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was also increasing, which put further strain on staff. High staff turnover at 24% was also a factor, with workloads a key factor in people leaving.

Cr Daniel Newman said while an issue might be trivial to the compliance team, it was not trivial for the complainant.

“I cannot ask my constituents to pay higher and higher rates for a lower level of service,” Newman said.

“I cannot, in all good conscious, vote for this when I think we need to have a debate about funding this to respond to P3s and P4s in a timely way,” Newman said.

Newman asked where the Compliance Response and Investigations Unit was at with its business case for more staff.

“Why am I being asked to endorse a matrix when the resourcing question has not been resolved?”

Regulatory Services director Craig Hobbs said it was a sensitive issue in the current financially constrained environment and he was unable to say when the business case would be ready.

Independent Māori Statutory Board member Glenn Wilcox said complaints

“

Part of the problem comes from the public not knowing what the compliance team does.

James Hassall

”

would grow as the city grew.

“People need to know they are heard and that something has happened with their complaint,” Wilcox said.

Wilcox stressed the importance of hearing mana whenua under the treaty principles.

When some councillors said they would vote against the matrix update, committee chair Linda Cooper said that was disappointing.

“It is not really the matrix that is wrong. It is the resourcing,” Cooper said.

“This is not the place to protest. The place to protest is at the Finance and Performance Committee.”

Cooper said compliance management was core Council business.

“We will have to cut in other areas to achieve a higher level of service,” Cooper said. “We cannot keep putting the rates up without adding more value.”

The updated categorisation and prioritisation matrix was approved by the committee with seven voting for and four against.

April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

35

Road ad campaign criticised

SHEEPWORLD

OPEN DAY! You're invited to a Sheepworld/ Springboard experience.

11am - 3pm

Saturday 14th May FREE COMMUNITY EVENT Extended show presentations, guided tours of the property, our favourite animals and stunning Farm Park backdrop will all help to tell the story of the opportunities that are developing for the young people of this community.

See you there! 324 SH 1 (4km north of Warkworth), Warkworth

The New Zealand Taxpayers Union has written to the Public Service Commission requesting an intervention over Waka Kotahi’s Road to Zero public awareness campaign.

The Taxpayers Union claims that Waka Kotahi has spent just over $4.7 million on the first two television advertisements promoting the government’s Road to Zero strategy. The spending is separate from the $2.4 million recently spent on the Safe Limits television ad.

In February, the government officially launched its Road to Zero public awareness campaign promoting its target of zero deaths and serious injuries on New Zealand’s roads by 2050. Waka Kotahi was allocated $14.7 million in new funding for the campaign but has told the Union it plans to spend as much as $197 million on Road to Zero promotions and educational activities.

The first Road to Zero ad shows a holidaying family stopped at a toll booth by a woman in a wig, who looks at the family’s youngest child and says the toll will be “just the little one today”. Horror music is played before

In brief

we are told, “It’s time we stopped paying the road toll. We have a vision to reach zero deaths by 2050”.

The second ad shows a family crashing into a road barrier. One by one, mechanics, road workers and police officers emerge from the car explaining how they all helped to stop the crash from being worse. The ad cuts to, “It takes everyone to get to no one”.

Union spokesman Louis Houlbrooke says neither ad actually encourages drivers to change their behaviour – instead, Waka Kotahi is using its massive advertising budget to promote a Government initiative.

In response, a Waka Kotahi spokesperson says Road to Zero identifies five areas of focus – infrastructure and speed, vehicles, work-related road safety, road user choices and system management.

“The strategy recognises a need to build public understanding and support for road safety action in order to achieve the 2030 targets for reduced deaths and serious injuries, and the Road to Zero public awareness campaign supports that objective,” the spokesperson says.

Goodbye to two trees

Wellsford School is removing two trees on its grounds, which have grown so large they have caused damage to buildings, and become a hazard. Some of the wood will be kept for a special project, with the children saying farewell and thanking the trees in a ceremony.

Kawau copter rescue

The Auckland rescue helicopter was called to Kawau Island on Easter Sunday, April 17, to help a man in his sixties who had suffered a fall onto rocks. He was rescued by boat then transported to the Westpac 1 helicopter, where he was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition.

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| Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

Council report found lacking

By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter. Funded by NZ On Air

Errors in a report into current and potential gaps in the provision of council facilities have raised eyebrows around the quality of reports across Auckland.

Auckland Council’s Parks, Arts, Community and Events Committee deferred endorsement of the Millwater and Silverdale Community Provision Investigation after the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board raised issues with the report.

Community provision investigations have been carried out across Auckland to assess whether there are enough facilities, such as libraries or leisure centres, for the communities depending on a range of criteria including demand, catchment size and weather it is a local board priority.

However, the accuracy of these reports was questioned at the meeting.

There were concerns that non-Council owned facilities had been included, as well as schools that did not allow public access outside of school hours. Hibiscus and Bays Board member Victoria Short was also concerned that the report did not consider future development.

Community and Social Policy general manager Kataraina Maki said a desktop research approach was done, which did not engage with the community or facilities outside of Council ownership.

“The same level of effort was applied consistently across community provision investigations,” Maki said.

She acknowledged that there were data limitations with this approach.

“We identify areas that are already developed, not areas that are going to be

developed,” Maki said. “Staff are looking to see if the community facilities plan is fit for purpose.”

Maki said issues surrounding the plan were expected to be brought back to committee after the local elections.

Cr Richard Hills looked at community facilities in Waitakere, which provided for 300,000 people, well above the intended 40,000 residents.

“Is this about making sure we don’t make the same mistakes?” Hills said.

He felt that mistakes in the Hibiscus report could be Auckland-wide.

Cr Angela Dalton said she sometimes felt like she was not even reading about her own community in the reports.

“There are assumptions on provision particularly when it comes to school facilities. We can not rely on assumptions,” Dalton said.

Cr Linda Cooper pushed back on claims that the reports were flawed.

“I feel like this has been rejected out of hand because the answer was not what people wanted to hear,” Cooper said.

Cr John Watson welcomed the revisiting of this investigation.

“Surely if you are going to make decisions in any area, you want to make sure you have accurate information,” Watson said.

Cr Daniel Newman said he was nervous about Council’s direction with desktop analysis. He wanted to see Council staff conducting better research.

Independent Maori Statutory Board Members, Tony Kake and Glenn Wilcox, voted against the item because of the use of the name Millwater instead of the reo name Wainui.

Council encourages diversity

By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter. Funded by NZ On Air

Auckland Council is implementing strategies to bridge the gap in disabled leadership representation ahead of October’s local government elections.

The accessibility strategies were presented at a meeting of the Disability Advisory Panel this month and detailed how Council was encouraging disabled Aucklanders to vote and stand for office.

Deliberative Democracy senior advisor Litia Brighouse-Fuavao said she had received feedback from the panel previously around the gap in leadership.

“We are encouraging people with disabilities to stand and an assisted nominations process has been put in

place,” Brighouse-Fuavao said.

The assisted participation programme means disabled people can call to set up an appointment and be assisted to fill out forms, Brighouse-Fuavao said.

“We are ensuring diversity in our marketing campaign.”

Making information accessible was through QR codes on election pamphlets leading to New Zealand Sign Language translations and an 0800 number with narrated profiles was also part of Council’s accessibility strategy, Brighouse-Fuavao said.

“There is a large gap in disability leadership, so it is great to see some of those things progressing,” panel co-chair Jason Boberg said.

Nominations close on August 12.

& Pets&Vets Corner Pet of the Month Does Flossy need a drench?

When, how often and can’t I just have a formula that applies each year to keep it simple? The age old question on a lifestyle block that unfortunately doesn’t have a simple answer. The reason is because it depends on multiple factors such as weather (how wet will it be through Dec-Feb? your guess is as good as mine), stocking rate, how many years you have grazed the same paddocks, other

stock

(goats?),

historical

drenching practices (drench resistance occurring?). In one sentence you should drench “the least number of times required with a drench containing the fewest actives that work, and apply refugia when doing so”. If that makes no sense to you then see www.wormwise.co.nz for an excellent online resource from beef+lamb NZ to help you get your head around drenching.

Vets: Roger Dunn BVSc, Jon Makin BVSc, Danny Cash BVSc, Justine Miller BVSc, Chelsea Gill BVSc, Sam Eaton BVSc, Jackie Nicholls BVSc, Neil Warnock BVM&S

WARKWORTH VETS VETERINARY HOSPITAL COAST 2 COAST VETS

www.localmatters.co.nz

Phone 09 425 8244 (Warkworth) 09 423 7048 (Wellsford) 24 hour 7 day a week emergency cover Now open 8 am until 2pm Saturdays

April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

37

t u o b a d n a t Ou A T

E A S T E R

The Easter Bunny was a popular visitor. Insert, organiser eggs-traordinaire Libby Clews. Photos, Harrison’s Photography.

Inaugural Easter hunt an egg-ceptional success

Wellsford’s War Memorial Park was swarming with happy children and families on Easter Saturday, as hundreds took part in the town’s first Easter Egg Hunt.

Kids of all ages hunted high and low for coloured chips around the park, which were all swapped for a whopping 4500 chocolate eggs, and the Easter Bunny paid a visit with a basket full of crème eggs to give away as well.

In addition to all that chocolate, there was live music from Jon E. Clist, bouncy castles, Mr Whippy ice cream, toys to play on, police, fire and cement trucks, and bubble and badge-making from the Wellsford Library team.

There were also spot prizes and giveaways all morning, including McDonald’s vouchers, socks, sunglasses, toothbrushes and even a PlayStation 4 being handed out to lucky winners.

The hunt was organised by Northern Helping Hands.

Founder Libby Clews said she was really pleased with the way the event had gone, from the perfect weather to the friendly volunteers.

“It made me happy to see so many locals from Wellsford and neighbouring communities,” she said. “There were many hugs, smiles and a lot of laughs.

“Even after the event finished, kids were getting ice creams and playing in the park still. I really hope this increases the patronage of such a great facility.”

She said the event would not have been possible without the “amazing” generosity of sponsors, who paid for the eggs, subsidised food and coffee, bought supplies, loaned gear and more.

Repairs reduce waste

A Repair Café held in Wellsford on Easter Sunday gave visitors a chance to have their items fixed, as well as learn how to do the repairs themselves. Bike tyres were patched, bike brakes tightened and knives sharpened during the afternoon event aimed at encouraging people to mend rather than discard items. The event was organised by Mahurangi Wastebusters and Trust Board member Trish Allen was on hand to talk about how to get compost and worm farms humming. Cakes and hot cross buns were also enjoyed by those present. Future Repair Cafes are planned for later in the year.

BOAT SHOW Mahurangi Marine NOW AVAILABLE

HUTCHWILCO NZ BOAT SHOW SPLASHBACK SPECIAL Effective 15th May - 30th June 2014

New Zealand's largest and most popular Boat Show is on at the Auckland ASB showground’s Thursday 15th - Sunday 18th May. Honda Marine will have a stand displaying the full range of outboard motors and will be offering a SPLASH BACK promotion.

2022 Honda BF115, BF135, BF150 Engines

The SPLASH BACK promotion is a Nationwide offer on retail sales of any new Honda outboard purchased from 15th May until 30th June 2014. Refer table on page 2 for SPLASH BACK amounts per individual unit.

Frontier Electrical is bringing a new innovative concept to Matakana Village, where architects, designers, builders and homeowners can interact and engage with product.

Newly opened offices and a bespoke concept room showcase carefully selected lighting, switches, automation and audio components. If it’s not on display, it can be ordered in. From light fittings to custom designs, automation, security and solar, the team at Frontier have your project covered.

The Concept Room is open to all, and we invite you to stop in for a chat. Bring your ideas, your project, your plans, your wish list – we cover all things electrical and more!

38

| Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

Suite 4 44 Matakana Valley Road Matakana 09 415 6635 Mark O’Shea 021 778 669 mark@frontierelectrical.co.nz www.frontierelectrical.co.nz

2.3HP = $200 SPLASH BACK

30HP - 60HP = $500 SPLASH BACK

5HP = $100 SPLASH BACK

80HP - 150HP = $1,000 SPLASH BACK

8HP - 15HP = $300 SPLASH BACK

175HP - 200HP = $2,000 SPLASH BACK

20HP = $400 SPLASH BACK

225HP – 250HP = $2,500 SPLASH BACK

Honda have added drive-by-wire technology to its BF115, BF135 and BF150 four-stroke outboard Terms & Conditions: SPLASH BACK offer applies to all new retail outboard sales from 2.3HP - 250HP . Offer applies to floor stock, consignment stock and new unit engine range.

All three engines with components simplify and reduce purchases.

This SPLASH BACK offer overrides allare other“built promotions ie: Unitsnew purchased between the period to 15th May - 30th Junemaintenance do not count towards the quarterly unit rebate scheme. How does the SPLASH BACK promo work? Every outboard purchased during this period will be invoiced to Dealers at normal dealer buy excl GST running costs”. The new iST “intelligent Shift Technology” fly-by-wire controls, will sell alongside LESS the SPLASH BACK amount Incl GST. Dealers discount for the customer the RRP excl GST by the SPLASH BACK amount off the outboard. Dealers need to supply Honda Marine with engines a copy of customer invoice a Dealer SPLASH BACK rebate on sales of existing floor stock owners and consignment stock.prefer Dealers must alsophysical order versions of the that willto receive still use mechanical controls for those who the a replacement engine of similar HP. This replacement unit will also receive the SPLASHBACK rebate. (Not applicable to new units sales as SPLASH BACK amount will automatically be deducted).

Advertising and Promotional material:allow Each Dealer will receive SPLASH BACK point salecontrolled to display on showroom stock. connection.

The new technology will also multiple engines to ofbe from a single throttle lever at the helm, greatly reducing complexity for multiple engine installs.

Honda Marine Finance available and Trades welcome (T&C apply).

Mahurangi Marine Ltd - Phone Wayne 425 5806 330 Mahurangi East Rd, Snells Beach (Next to the Fire Station - Snells Beach)

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Contact us today about ‘Incourage’ Our semiindependent living service for mum and baby at risk.

Ph 09 282 3724

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PEEL OFF AEROSOL

A petrol-head’s dream – more than 500 cars and bikes were displayed at the Domain. Photos, Kathy Strong.

Vintage vehicles hop to it

Absolutely smashing – the fair featured stunning china displays.

Antiques back in Matakana

Matakana Primary School was transformed into a slice of heaven for lovers of fine china and glass over Easter, when the annual Antique Fair returned for another two-day sale.

The hall was packed with dealers selling all kinds of vintage and retro items, but it was china, pottery and crystal that stole the show, with outstanding collections dominating the display space.

Organiser Diane Atkins says that while Covid caused something of a drop in numbers attending, it was a successful weekend and good to see more people out and about again. Entry was by cash donation and all proceeds – around $1300 – will go to Matakana Primary School.

Hundreds of classic cars and thousands of people descended on Mangawhai Domain on Sunday, April 17 for the second annual Easter Hop car and bike show.

The sunny weather was perfect for showing off polished paintwork on well over 500 gleaming vehicles of every style and vintage, from pimped out pick-ups to meaty modern muscle cars.

As well as the cars and bikes on display, there were stalls selling food, drink and other merchandise, plus bouncy castles, the Easter Bunny, retro pin-up girls and even Cheeky Charlie, the Four Square character.

The event was organised by the Mangawhai Muscle and Classic Car Club, which was founded by local car enthusiast and Corvette expert Bryan May in 2019. He said the show had been a good one, although it had been tricky finding enough food trucks, and the club had learnt a lot for next year’s event.

Proceeds from entry fees will be donated to the Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Lifeguard Service and the Mangawhai Domain Society.

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April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

39

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| Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

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Providing water reticulation services: Water pumps sales and repairs • filtration • water treatment • small irrigation projects • pools and spas.

(2007) Ltd

• Water treatment & Filtration • Pumps • Pool & Spas • Waterblasters 7days / 24hours Paul Harris

Call Steve today 021 278 7427 0800 278 288 | www.aquaworks.co.nz

mobile: 027 556 6111

Servicing Auckland’s North Shore to Whangarei.

M: 021 425 887 T: 09 425 0075 E: pumps4u@live.com

Household Water Deliveries 0800 747 928

Design of new systems or advice on remedial work.

Call Dax Bromhead 021 203 4835

Pumps & Filters Water Treatment Spa & Pool Shop Water Testing Valet Service Water Blasters Tanks & Sprayers 24 Hour Mobile & Workshop Service 31 Woodcocks Rd, Warkworth 09 425 9100 splashwater@xtra.co.nz

Shop hours Mon - Fri 8am-5pm Sat 9am-12pm

Classifieds AERIALS

REDDING ELECTRONICS Freeview Installs, Satellite Dish, UHF Aerial. Installation & Repairs. Ph Dave 09 422 7227 or 027 458 5457 APPLIANCE REPAIRS A SMART REPAIR Service for F&P smartdrive washers, F&P/ Simpson dryers. Prompt service 021 168 7349.

DRIVEWAYS MAINTENANCE Grading, rolling & metalling for rural Driveways.

No job too BIG or small. Ph Trevor 021 0225 5606 DVDS & VIDEOS

DVD

V I D E O S TRANSFERRED to DVD/hard drive. Phone or txt Tetotara Video 021 777 385.

HAIRDRESSING

HOME & MAINTENANCE

MOBILE HAIRDRESSER

COLLINS ELECTRONICS HAVE YOU LOST PRIME?

Working around the greater Warkworth Region. Enjoy getting your haircut in the comfort of your home.

Call Rebecca 021 0825 8242

Or need your Freeview box tuned for the new channels? TV repairs, microwave oven repairs, Freeview installations.

Ph Paul 09 422 0500 or 027 29 222 04

HOME & MAINTENANCE

Blue Skies Cleaning Window Cleaning, Soft Bio House Wash, Gutter Clean, All Exterior Cleaning, Water Blasting, Roof Treatment, Local Professional service.

Ph Pat 022-646-5849

KIWI ROOTS Palm & Tree Maintenance, Removal, Mulching and Hedge work.

Free quotes.

Phone 020 4027 6200. www.kiwiroots.co.nz

WATER FILTERS - Underbench, Whole house, UV & water spotting, Work Guaranteed. Ph Steve 021 278 7427 healthy@ aquaworks.co.nz WATER PUMPS - No water? Old cast iron pump? Sales Service & Installation. Work Guaranteed.

Ph Steve 021 278 7427 healthy@aquaworks.co.nz WINDOW CLEANING/ HOUSEWASH/GUTTER CLEANING Local professional service. Ph Pat 022-646-5849.

PUBLIC NOTICES

CATHOLIC CHURCH WARKWORTH LIONS EASTER RAFFLE RESULTS Drawn by the Police

Phone 425 8545

www.holyname.org.nz

Holy Mass Timetable: WARKWORTH

Holy Name Church, 6 Alnwick Street Saturday Vigil: 6.00pm Sunday: 10.30am

1st Prize $500 New World Voucher-1853-M Leat 2nd Prize $200 Mobil Warkworth Voucher-1187-G Henderson 3rd Prize $100 Bridgehouse Voucher- 1341-Erna 4th Prize Chocolate Brown Easter Gift-1850-Tracy Sullivan 5th Prize Life Pharmacy Basket1090-David Little 6th Prize Repco gift bucket and $30 Voucher-1008-Pauline Fell

5 Pulham Road, Warkworth Phone 425 8861 www.mahu.org.nz

Thank you for your Support and Thank you to the Sponsors

Sunday Services 9am & 10.35am

HIRING?

JOB HUNTING?

Advertise on our website www.localmatters.co.nz/jobs

Check out the vacancies on our website www.localmatters.co.nz/jobs

www.localmatters.co.nz

CHURCH NOTICES

PUHOI

SS. Peter & Paul Church Sunday: 8.30am

Sudoku

Solution

Your LOCAL Community Newspaper

April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

43

Classifieds SITUATIONS VACANT

HIAB OPERATOR / OWNER OPERATOR OPPORTUNITY

PART-TIME CARETAKERS SEPARATE ACCOMMODATION MATAKANA

The applicant must have: Minimum class 4 licence, or class 5 as an advantage NZ residency or citizenship Must have valid Vaccination Pass Good Communication Skills, both written and oral Skills in Basic maintenance, DIY or the ability to learn

Up to 10hr pw keeping grounds, lawns, gardening, light house cleaning, general landscaping, property maintenance, & assistance for owners of 3 acre gated lifestyle property 5 min from Matakana village. Live-in position, attractive warm (healthy home) totally separate 2brm semi-furn house, big deck with extensive elevated views. Excellent equipment provided to manage tasks.

Suit fit couple, possibly retirees, seeking inexpensive rural lifestyle, with only outgoings a modest fixed contribution towards power/ gas/ services & shared large domestic veg garden etc. included in overall co-op style package.

Must have good practical DIY handyman skills and openly helpful compatible attitude. Pets, other than dogs, OK. Details: Chris 021 764 183

Mason Containers Ltd, A Warkworth based company, operating in shipping container sales, hire and storage, has an opening for a Hiab operator (could result in an owner operator opportunity if desired). Principally for delivery & collection of empty containers.

The job also entails some maintenance work, such as container cleaning, door maintenance and paint touch ups, among other things.

General Hours are Monday through Friday 7.30am to 5pm, but be prepared to do earlier starts, late finishes and the occasional Saturday if required Generous remuneration relevant to experience & attributes Mason Containers is a drug-free & alcohol-free work place (pre-start test) This is an opportunity to work as part of a small team in a long-running family business Mason Containers Ltd, 12 Gumfield Drive, Warkworth.

Apply with your CV to ryan@masoncontainers.co.nz or call Ryan on 021 839 821 or Al on 0274 933 323 PUBLIC NOTICES

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in the Warkworth area:

Supported by Mahurangi Matters

Warkworth Fellowship Monday 7.30pm, Catholic Church Hall, 6 Alnwick Street, Warkworth. Open to Visitors. Wheelchair Access.

Snells Beach Big Book Meeting Thursday 7:30pm, Mahurangi Christian School, 410 Mahurangi East Rd, Snells Beach; Open to Visitors.

If you want to drink, that is your business, if you want to stop, we can help. Phone/text 0275 773 689 www.aa.org.nz | www.12steps.nz JUSTICE OF THE PEACE SERVICE DESKS

A reminder to the public that the JP Service Desks are available as follows: Warkworth – at the Council Offices • Monday 10.00 – 2.00 If there is a long weekend, it is the following Tuesday from 10.00 to 12.00.

Matakana- Cinema Complex • Tuesday 11.00-1.00 Snells Beach – at the Library • Friday 10.00 – 12.00 Warkworth RSA • Fridays 4.00 to 5.00 No appointment is needed. There is no cost.

At all other times there are plenty of other JP’s available in the Warkworth/Mahurangi Area, either in the Warkworth Community phone book, or on-line “find a JP”. Supported by Mahurangi Matters

PUBLIC NOTICES

Sudoku the numbers game

3 1 9 MEDIUM

6

5

9 3 2 7 5 6 4 4 If it’s local, let us know!

5

2 1

6

2

6 1 3

SOLUTION page 43

The deadline for classified advertising for our May 9, 2022 paper is May 4.

Send classified advertising enquiries to design@localmatters.co.nz

| Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

Brush away those Covid cobwebs without the need for the Internet and a games console, just bring your mind along to the Snell’s Beach 500 Club. We supply the cards, the entertainment and if you are not a 500 player, the tuition to join in a fun evening.

I am sure many of you remember playing cards on those rainy school holiday days and more recently during lockdown! Now you can come and meet some of the Snell’s Beach Community who enjoy a couple of hours of card playing, banter, and if you are lucky enough, a prize for winning (or losing) the night’s fun.

Mahurangi 425 9068 FILL IN THISMatters GRID SO THAT EVERY COLUMN, EVERY ROW AND EVERY 3X3 BOX CONTAINS THE DIGITS 1 TO 9.

44

Cards to kill the Covid cobwebs

www.puzzles.ca

7 2 9

6 4

If you haven’t played 500 for a while we will run a few tutorials for budding players. We can help you recall how to win the tricks, or if you would like to know some subtle strategies a bit of tuition on that also.

Where?

Betty Paxton Room, Snells Beach Community Centre, Hamatana Road.

When?

Every Wednesday starting at 6.45pm for a 7pm start.

For more info call - Ivan 09 425 4999 or Neil 027 661 1898

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

TOTALSPAN RODNEY PROUD SPONSORS OF

SCOREBOARD THE scorEBoArD ToTalspan Rodney pRoud sponsoRs of

SUPPORTING LOCAL SPORT FOR FIVE YEARS AND RUNNING

A roundupof of sports activities and eventsin in THe the district a Roundup spoRTs acTiviTies disTRicT Centennial Park feedback Netball Rodney Centre is working with Auckland Council to address the condition of the netball courts at Wellsford’s Centennial Park. Feedback forms can be found at Wellsford Memorial Library. Feedback must be submitted by Saturday, April 30. Provide feedback and go in the draw to win a $100 supermarket voucher. See story p13.

For more info, email wellsfordcentennialparkmasterplan@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Gus Farrow (Omaha), Julie Riddle and Ernie Godman (Warkworth) intently following the action.

Warkworth Dressage Warkworth Dressage Group will host its annual general meeting & prizegiving at The Bridgehouse Warkworth on Tuesday, May 10. Dinner (at your cost) from 6pm. AGM from 8pm followed by prize giving.

To RSVP for dinner, email Diana on murraydi@outlook.co.nz or call 021 882 890. RSVP by Sunday, May 8.

Scout leaders Warkworth Scouts is in urgent need of more Scout leaders.

If this sounds like you, please email Anne-Marie at warkworth@group.scouts.nz Netball funding ANZ is proud to support netball at all levels in New Zealand, from grassroots through to the elite.

Whether you’re looking for some new uniforms and gear or help with anything from coaching or transport, applying for an ANZ grant could help you to continue playing the game you love.

To apply for a grant, visit: https://www.anzcourtside.co.nz/home/index.html Mother’s Day at Wellsford Pony Club Wellsford Pony Club will host a Mother’s Day Masters Recycled Ribbon Day on Sunday, May 8 at the Hakaru Pony Club, 10am start. The day is a fundraiser run and organised by the young riders ToTalspan Rodney of Wellsford District Pony Club. Come along for a day of fun and games.

229 HigHway 1 ForsTaTe more info and to register visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/407162279408535 waRkwoRTH

pHone 09 422 3149

List sports news FREE by emailing online@localmatters.co.nz

Novice bowler Steve Saric (Warkworth) shows off his skills.

TOTALSPAN RODNEY 229 STATE HIGHWAY 1, WARKWORTH PHONE 09 422 3149 0800 TOTALSPAN (0800 868 257) WWW.TOTALSPAN.CO.NZ

RODNEY SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

PHONE 09 422 7166 OR 027 494 6370

Ross Ruddell (Warkworth) gets down to business with his tape measure.

Bowlers out in force for triples The Warkworth Bowling Club was in full swing last Wednesday, with players from Warkworth, Orewa, Omaha and Mahurangi East tempting the rain in overcast conditions.

The Standard Open Triples tournament saw 48 players stretching their legs and their skills, with the club starting to catch up on three month’s worth of tournaments lost through Covid disruptions.

Tournaments chair John Hurdley says

www.localmatters.co.nz

players have been undeterred by the pandemic and they are pleased that only one sponsor has pulled out.

“We’ve had a full green every time we’ve played,” he says.

Normally, playing two tournaments a month, the club is now in catch-up mode with an extra tournament planned this month.

“There is no hurry and though it may take some time, we expect to get all of the missed tournaments played over time.”

DOES MY SEPTIC TANK NEED CLEANING? Yes, every 2-3 years. Why? Because septic tanks are a filter. You clean your car filter and your water filters regularly and yet one of the most important filtersgets forgotten - your septic tank. Keep your environment clean and green.

LOOK OUT FOR US AROUND TOWN!

April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

45

Lower Northland seniors win club of year Rugby just getting on with it, despite some Covid disruptions committee, but won two bronze medals in the NZ 75 to 80-plus doubles and mixed doubles held in Tauranga recently,” Denton says.

“We have 30 members who have been playing for more than 10 years in the seniors.

“Over Covid, many clubs struggled to complete their programmes but the LNSTC can be congratulated on somehow soldiering through.”

Lower Northland will host the annual Seniors Tournament on May 14 with some of the top senior tennis players coming from all around the North Island.

The Seniors Club of the Year trophy was donated to Tennis NZ Seniors in 2016 by Warkworth tennis stalwarts, Murray and Bev Billington, when they were on the national committee.

The Warkworth-based Lower Northland Seniors Tennis Club (LNSTC) has won the 2022 Tennis NZ Seniors Club of the Year trophy at the prizegiving at a National Teams Event in Napier recently.

The trophy recognises the seniors club that has contributed most over the previous year to further the sport in NZ among the 32 senior tennis clubs throughout the motu.

The criteria includes participation in national events, the club’s own programme of activities, any increase in membership, the running of any senior tournaments, inter-association matches, social events and involvement in Tennis NZ Seniors administration.

The trophy was accepted on behalf of the club by club president Rob Denton.

“Currently Lower Northland is proud of their member, David Theyers, who is not only on the NZ selection

Covid has caused some disruption to this season’s rugby, but organisers in the north say they are getting on with it and in some cases joining forces to get the numbers for teams.

While it’s good to be back for the coming season, with Covid affecting playing over the last two years, it will take some time build up numbers again, Rodney Otamatea Junior Rugby Club’s Phillip Tana says.

The under-14 juniors have similar numbers to last year, and the under-18’s also have a team, but the under-16’s are struggling to get numbers up.

In the premier division, Tomarata has joined with Wellsford to get a team together.

Volunteer numbers are also down which is to be expected, Phillip says, as they are generally connected to individual players.

But he doesn’t put it all down to Covid, with numbers struggling in the IMB grades for the last eight years.

This year will be about getting back into the schools and raising enthusiasm for the sport, he says.

Mahurangi is also looking at a season to build and get enthusiasm back up.

Chairperson Charmaine Gravatt says the club has also been buoyed by new sponsorship, with ITM Matakana, Warkworth and Mangawhai joining forces to back the club, after Mitre10 Mega pulled out earlier in the year.

While they have had one pre-season game, another premier game was called off due to players being affected by Covid.

The under-21 team has had to withdraw from the competition, but the club is instead fielding an under 85kg team.

Gravatt says this is important to keep college boys in the game, with appreciation for the old boys who have returned to keep numbers up.

While numbers are down across the north with some clubs struggling, this is no reflection on individual clubs, Rugby manager for North Harbour Junior and Youth Rugby Jacob Corbett says.

Overall, the future is looking positive for the sport in the north particularly with the numbers of girls coming into both the contact and non-contact teams, he says.

Lower Northland Seniors Tennis Club president Rob Denton (right) proudly displays the Club of the Year trophy, which was donated

by Bev and Murray Billington (pictured left). Also pictured are club captain Robin Denton and treasurer David Theyers.

Want Your D L House O

Don’t Delay call Mick Fay today!

021 544 769

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Wed Fri

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Sun Sun Fishing Fishing Guide Guide

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Licensee Agent Snells Beach 021 544 769 E. mick.fay@raywhite.com W. https://mickfay.raywhite.com/

| Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

What’s on See www.localmatters.co.nz/whats-on/ for a full list of upcoming events

May 2-7

Creative Matakana. Info: www.creativematakana.nz

4

Warkworth Liaison Group meeting, Warkworth RSA downstairs meeting room, 7pm start. All welcome.

4

Men’s Rebus casual coffee meet up, The Parsley Pot Cafe, 11am. Come and join us. Info: Ron on 422 3111.

7&8

Antiques & collectables sale, Maungaturoto Country Club, Saturday 9am-3pm, Sunday 9am-2pm. The Den Maungaturoto is holding a sale of antiques and collectables. Items include kitchenware, books, records, toys, cameras & equipment, furniture, tools, brass & more. Silent auction of special items starting at 9am Saturday and finalised at noon that day.

8

Kawau Kiwi aversion training, Warkworth Showgrounds. Priority given to Kawau Island residents and frequent visitors. To register email rvis@doc.govt.nz with the following details: Dog name, sex, age, breed, colour, use, owner name, address, phone number and your relation to Kawau Island.

11

Emergency Services Thank You Dinner, Warkworth Town Hall. Organised

by One Mahurangi in appreciation of local first responders. Donations and volunteers needed to help on the night. Info: Murray Chapman on 027 496 6550 or email murray@onemahurangi.co.nz

13-15

Art exhibition by Julia Krystyna, Matakana Smokehouse (see story p30)

13

Kowhai Art & Craft Open Day, Kowhai Art & Craft clubrooms, Warkworth Showgrounds, 10am2pm. Demonstrations, displays and free entry and refreshments. All welcome.

16

Men’s Rebus General Meeting, Shoesmith Hall, 10am. Guest Speaker TBA. Tea break and chat. Missing your mates? Why not visit us? Info: Ron on 422 3111.

List your event by emailing the details to online@localmatters.co.nz

SUPER SAUSAGE SIZZLE IF YOU WAN T TO SUPPOR T M ORE LOCAL, THEN WHY NOT JOIN US !

On the last Saturday of every month, we’re raising much needed funds for local charities and organisations—perhaps groups that would not normally get the exposure within the local community.

C OME A LONG AND SUPPOR T

Saturday 28th May 10am - 2pm

next to Warkworth Butchery.

Dementia Auckland enables all people affected by dementia to live their best lives by providing the information and support they need to reduce stress and anxiety, build resilience, wellbeing, understanding and acceptance.

A dementia diagnosis will raise all sorts of concerns and worries, which is normal. It is important to know that life doesn’t stop with a dementia diagnosis, there can be light in the darkness. With the right support, people can be assisted to live well with dignity and independence for as long as possible.

Dementia Auckland provides FREE 1:1 Keyworker support, Carer Support Groups, Living Well Services for people living with dementia and a range of education sessions including a Carer Education programme, servicing greater Auckland Region.

If you would like more information or to talk with one of our team, please contact us on 0800 433 636 or email info@dementiaauckland.org.nz

Anzac Day flypast

The Air Force Heritage Flight of New Zealand conducted a flypast over the Mahurangi and Northland regions on Anzac Day. Squadron Leader Stu Anderson was at the controls of a Harvard ZK-ENB as it flew at 1000 feet over Wellsford, then Kaiwaka and Maungaturoto in the morning, and Waipu, Mangawhai Heads, Mangawhai, Omaha, Matakana, Warkworth and Snells Beach in the afternoon.

www.localmatters.co.nz

Coast & Country April 25, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

47

Jonathan Gregson breaking the national record and sporting new colours. Photo, Wheels in Motion.

National record shredded by Wellsford driver When Wellsford drag car racer Jonathan Gregson says he’s going to do something, it pays to listen.

Last year he said he intended to break the national record for D-class dragsters, and at Meremere Dragway on April 10 he did it, carving .008 seconds off the previous record, which had stood since 2013, and increasing the speed record by 4mph.

The old record was 9.453 seconds at 136mph. It now stands at 9.445 seconds at 140mph. Gregson was racing in a frontengine dragster, powered by a naturally aspirated 166 cubic inch, four cylinder, Fontana engine. Coincidentally, the car was formerly owned by the previous record holder, Cameron Patterson.

Clinching the record was no mean feat, as Gregson had to race the circuit twice and finish the second run within one percent of the record-breaking time. The car was also carefully scrutinised after the feat to ensure it met all the legal specifications for its class.

Gregson now has his eyes firmly fixed on the national championship series, which starts in November. Over the six month season, he will compete in the modified class in eight locations around New Zealand.

In the meantime, he will be busy this winter building a new air scoop system, which he hopes will see him go even faster next year.

There are also plans to one day build an altered, powered by a twin-turbo LS motor, to run low seven second passes in the next couple of years.

Last year, Gregson was named Rookie of the Year at the NAPA Auto Parts Dragway Comp Series.

When not on the track, the 21-year-old works as an apprentice precision machinist at ITSS Engineering in Warkworth. He also comes from a long line of drag car races, as both his father and grandfather raced in South Africa.

Drag car racing is in the blood for Jonathan and his Dad, Cedric.

The medical professionals were all courteous, polite, patient and had a good sense of humour.

The service from the time I booked to going home was excellent.

I felt I had their absolute attention. There was no obvious wait time and the documentation process was easy to follow.

To have a facility like this so close to home is fantastic!

Greg Allen-Baines Warkworth resident

My advice is to ask your GP if you can have it done locally.

Or ring Rodney Surgical direct.

The best surgeons offering you day care surgeries right here in Warkworth.

Ask your GP if your day care surgery can be done at Rodney Surgical.

www.rodneysurgicalcentre.co.nz • 09 425 1190 48 | Mahurangimatters | April 25, 2022

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