Mahurangi Matters_Issue 398_16 December 2020

December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz Welcome Home

PROPERTY GUIDE Welco meH eHome

pages 33-40

December 2020/Jan

uary 2021 Your essential

Barfoot & Thompson

A Local Matters

| LJ Hooker | MEYER

Real Estate | Mike

property guide

Greer Homes

from Dairy Flat

| Ray White | RE/MAX

Realty Group

to Waipu

| Oaks on Neville

Your Community Newspaper FREE publication. Distribution

- 41,200 copies.

Advertising enquiries:

Mahurangi 09

425 9068 or Hibiscus

09 427 8188

s a m t s i r h C Merry Proudly locally owned

Bobbie Brown’s Christmas zoo in Ashmore Crescent.

Christmas lights brighten dark year Although many traditional festive events have been cancelled due to Covid-19, the Christmas light displays around Ashmore Crescent, Warkworth, are getting bigger and better.

After some radical gardening, Brian Oakes’ home, at number 31, has more

space to show off the area’s largest Christmas light and music show.

“Last year, there were more than 30,000 lights and I’ve just bought a load more this year,” he says.

It takes Brian a month to set up the annual spectacular, which is computer

controlled to synchronise the lights with a music soundtrack.

While checking out Brian’s place, visitors should also take a look at the illuminations at the home of Robin and Bobbie Brown, at number 36, and those of John and Faye Peel, round the

Get ready for something great.

Start with your smile.

Invisalign® clear aligners have transformed over 4.5 million smiles worldwide with the precision of 0.1 mm at a time, using the world’s most advanced technology. So you can keep moving forward without missing a beat.

Call us on 09 422 9993 email: care@snellsdental.co.nz 3/347,Mahurangi East Road. www.snellsdental.co.nz

Stop Waiting. Start Moving.

We provide FastBraces Almost half the time, almost half the price. Just a few months!

Just a few visits! Just ONE Wire!

NEW PATIENT EX

continued page 2

AM

49

$

corner at 37 Northwood Close.

Bobbie admits that at 73 she should probably not be climbing ladders to install the decorations, but can’t help herself.

“We don’t have children of our own,

Includes con sultat full exam an ion, çdigital X-r d ays.

D E N T A L C A R E The Valley of Smiles

Call us on 09 422 9992 or 0508 MATAKANA email: care@matakanadental.co.nz 3/44 Matakana Valley Road. www.matakanadental.co.nz Offering 12 months no interest, no payment with Q Card* *Q card lending criteria, terms and conditions apply.

2 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

Contact

Issue 398

localmatters.co.nz

Christmas lights brighten dark year so it’s always the greatest pleasure for me to see the children come by and enjoy the display,” she says.

She calls her display “a Christmas zoo” because of all the animals, which include a flamingo, giraffe, reindeer, penguins, kiwi and a peacock.

Bobbie says the animals seem to have the greatest appeal to children and she has long ceased to worry whether they

Mahurangi Matters

PO Box 701, Warkworth 0941 17 Neville St, Warkworth 0941 General enquiries 09 425 9068 GENERAL MANAGER: Jannette Thompson gm@localmatters.co.nz

021 263 4423

ADVERTISING: Ken Lawson 022 029 1899 advertising@localmatters.co.nz Marc Milford 022 029 1897 local@localmatters.co.nz

GRAPHIC DESIGN: Heather Arnold design@localmatters.co.nz Mahurangi Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated twice a month to 15,050 homes and businesses.

Views expressed in Mahurangi Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission of the editor is prohibited.

@mahurangi matters

@local mattersnz

localmatters.co.nz

are especially related to Christmas.

Bobbie says others in the street are also amassing masses of illuminated decorations, with the prospect that Ashmore Crescent is going to get even brighter in years to come.

The Christmas light displays run nightly from around 8.30pm until late. There is no charge, but Brian Oakes gratefully accepts donations for Hospice.

Rainfall figures for November

NEWS: James Addis, editor 022 549 9801 editor@localmatters.co.nz Jonathan Killick 022 549 8271 news@localmatters.co.nz Sally Marden 425 9068 reporter@localmatters.co.nz

ONLINE: Alysha Dudley 022 544 0249 online@localmatters.co.nz ACCOUNTS: Angela Thomas 425 9068 admin@localmatters.co.nz

from page 1

108mm Mangawhai

117.5mm Leigh

115mm

119mm

Wellsford

107mm

Whangateau

Matakana

Topuni

Takatu

Warkworth Kaipara Flats

Bobbie Brown says at 73 she probably should not be climbing ladders to install the lights.

160mm

143mm

147.8mm

135.7mm

116mm

Sandspit

Snells Beach

101mm

Algies Bay

Spotlight on Warkworth

Christmas hours

Highest rainfall day November 5 (61mm)

The Mahurangi Matters office will close at 2pm on Tuesday December 22 and reopen at 8.30am on Tuesday January 5.

For any urgent enquiries, phone: 021 263 4423

Year to date: 1123.5mm

Fact: The rainfall in November was nearly double the 20 year average of 79mm for the month. The total for the year so far is 100mm up on the same time last year, but 200mm short of the 20 year average. * All figures collected by Mahurangi Matters. Do not reproduce without the permission of Local Matters Inc.

Visit us on Facebook for daily notices MahurangiMatters

Taking Care of your Pumps and Filtration

Come & see us instore!

Installing and Servicing all Major Brands: Authorised Dealers for Grundfos and DAB, Master Dealers for Davey Supplier of Environmentally Friendly Products

Pumps: Davey, Grundfos, Onga, DAB Filtration: Davey, Wykomar, Puretec, Aqua Guard 31 Woodcocks Road, Warkworth | 09 425 9100 | splashwater@xtra.co.nz | Open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat 9am-12noon | splashwater.co.nz

• Eco-Friendly Cleaning Firm of the Year Innovation & Excellence Awards 2018

EXTERIOR CLEANING & WATERBLASTING

• Best House Washing Company, Northland, New Zealand Business Awards 2017

Covering Warkworth, Matakana, Omaha, Snells Beach, Sandspit, Wellsford, Mangawhai, Leigh, Orewa Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Special offer fo r decks and pati os 10% off

022 011 0244 09 425 8321

andy@greenwash.co.nz www.greenwash.co.nz

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 3

Waste Management called out on waterway contamination Anti-landfill campaigner Michelle Carmichael opened her submission to an independent panel last week by saying that Waste Management had been dishonest about the potential threat of contamination caused by flood damage to its landfill.

Appearing at the resource consent hearing for a proposed landfill near Wayby Valley was the moment of truth for Ms Carmichael who has been mounting her protest since 2018. In her Fight The Tip Tiaki te Whenua submission, she threw all the law books she could at the panel, citing the Resource Management Act, Treaty of Waitangi, Ministry for Environment landfill criteria and the Auckland Unitary Plan.

Perhaps the most potent part of the 83-page submission was titled ‘evidence of misleading information and ignorance’.

A map of waterways published by Waste Management in its community consultation document was compared side-by-side with a map used for its Overseas Investment Office (OIO) application.

There was a stark difference between the two, with the OIO document map being streaked with a plethora of waterways unseen in Waste Management’s map.

The commissioners heard from environmental post graduate student Rochelle Rodgers that according to NIWA data, Wayby Valley would experience 200mls of rain over a 24-hour period once every 40 years.

The panel of commissioners was shown images of Springhill Farm, adjacent to the proposed site, submerged under water after a flood in March 2007.

“Imagine how much of this ran directly from the valley of the proposed landfill,” Ms Carmichael said.

Michelle Carmichael challenged Waste Management’s technical data.

The submission included a written statement from the former farm manager of Spring Hill Estate, David Fletcher, which said underground tomos would spontaneously burst out of the hills.

“What is to say one won’t open up underneath the landfill once built and cause damage to the clay liner and spread leachates through the water aquifers and into waterways,” Ms Carmichael said.

Images of Wayby Valley, taken by geologist Matt Lomas, showed rifts that had formed like fault lines

in the hills.

The panel heard that the water source for Wellsford and Te Hana drew from a flood plain that was filled by a tributary from the proposed site.

Ms Carmichael took exception to Waste Management’s claim that the proposed landfill would be non-hazardous.

She cited Auckland Council’s 2017 Waste Assessment report, saying that an estimated 17 per cent of waste to landfill contained potentially hazardous waste.

Plea for alternative technologies at Dome landfill hearings Waste to Energy company representatives have renewed their calls to ditch a proposed landfill in the Dome Valley in favour of alternative technologies, which they say are safer and greener.

Managing director of The Board Kevin Smith told commissioners considering a resource consent for a landfill in the Dome Valley that the United States Environmental Protection Agency had concluded that all landfills would eventually leak harmful liquids (leachate) into the environment.

He said liners and leachate collection systems could not be relied upon because they depend on pipes that could crack, collapse or fill with sediment.

Mr Smith said the US and Europe

were moving away from landfills and switching to incinerating waste instead.

He acknowledged that early wasteto-energy plants generated lethal carcinogenic emissions and toxic ash that still had to be disposed in landfill.

But he said new technologies have evolved that resolved these problems.

“We now have access to a solution, which will comfortably process all of Auckland’s Municipal Solid Waste and produce zero emissions with the only residue being a harmless ash, which can be safely used as a very effective fertilizer,” he said.

Mr Smith said the technology provided by US Green Infrastructure Solutions could be configured to

produce significant amounts of electricity, fuel pellets, construction materials or biodiesel.

“We submit this landfill is not required at all. If there exists such a solution as we have presented here, it would be irresponsible to proceed.”

Later, NZ company Global Olivine renewed the attack on landfill Director Rhys Davies said Auckland Council aspired to have zero waste by 2040.

He asked why another landfill was being considered with a license to operate 20 years after 2040 without at least discussing other alternatives.

“I ask this committee, has it the authority and the courage to halt this application, confirm its mandate and

RD Construction Master Tradesmen

seek a greater debate as to our future waste goals and aspirations,” he said.

But following the presentation, Mr Davies was pessimistic about the outcome of the hearings.

He said it was clear from commissioners’ comments after Mr Davies spoke that they did not consider it is within their remit to consider the appropriateness of landfill in NZ, but only if it was appropriate for the Dome Valley site.

“It would appear that there is no forum in Auckland to discuss alternative waste solutions, and so it begs the question of whether the landfill rezoning is really only a matter of process and is effectively approved with possibly some additional requirements,” he said.

WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ

Ltd

BUILDING QUALITY HOMES THE WAY YOU WANT THEM Renovation specialists | Decks | New Homes CONTACT RICHARD DENTON 021

423 943 OR A/HRS: 09 423 9445 EMAIL BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

4 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

YOU SAY

O N L I N E

We asked our Facebook followers if Santa should be allowed to enter New Zealand without quarantining this year. Here are some of the responses:

YO U SAY Email letters to editor@localmatters.co.nz W E S AY Taking stock, moving forward

By Local Matters general manager Jannette Thompson

A year like no other in living memory is how many of us will look back on 2020. The stuff of Hollywood movies suddenly became our reality and words such as bubbles, clusters, quarantine, lockdown, community transmission and asymptomatic entered our day-to-day vocabulary. Health workers and professionals donned masks and became the new superheroes, while other less obvious pandemic heroes also emerged. Among these were the legion of supermarket employees up and down the country who smiled behind masks and Perspex shields while making sure shoppers didn’t sneak an extra pack of toilet rolls or bottle of hand sanitiser into their trolley.

The post-Covid fallout is still unfolding, although we know already of the devastation it has caused the airline and tourism industries. Many hospitality businesses have gone to the wall, while other small retailers are just taking it one day at a time. On the positive side though, things are looking good for farmers and supermarkets, and some businesses in construction and related fields are powering ahead, busier than they have ever been.

But wherever you sit on the Covid-19 repercussions spectrum, Kiwis can thank their lucky stars that they live on small islands at the bottom of the world, with stable and coherent leadership.

We’re not out of the woods yet, but it is to be hoped that with the rollout of vaccines, the world has at least turned a corner.

It would take a brave soul to predict what might happen next year, but our communities have shown an inspiring level of resilience, kindness and innovation. There are many lessons to be learned from the past year, but perhaps the one that resonates most loudly is not to take anything for granted. The future promises us nothing, so enjoy today, especially at this time of year.

Merry Christmas to all our advertisers, delivery people and readers, and we look forward to bringing you all the news from our communities again next year.

Merry Christmas from the Mahurangi Matters team.

Clarifying boundaries I have received queries about the Rodney Local Board internal boundary changes (MM Dec 2) . The public can rest assured nothing has changed with the election boundaries. All that has happened is one community group has approached me in my capacity as the local councillor to float their proposed idea with the Mayor and other councillors. I am duty bound to present their paper to the Council. Key considerations such as the practicality, cost and timing of their proposal will be considered by the Council and a response given back to them before Christmas.

Greg Sayers, Councillor, Rodney ward

Competition winners The winner of the book A Friend for Amy by Isabella van Hulten was Jenny Bartlett.

Congratulations Jenny.

Correction Mahurangi Matters inadvertently used the wrong advertisement on page 5 of the December 2 issue.

The advertisement was from Northern Express Group and purported to provide an update on construction of the Puhoi to Warkworth motorway.

The correct advertisement and update now appears on page 5 of this issue (Dec 16). Mahurangi Matters regrets the error.

Shontelle Kingston He lives somewhere that doesn’t have Covid and he comes to NZ first, since NZ is the first country to start the day, so we won’t have any issues.

Tarran Dallow Yup, he does noncontact deliveries.

Lynn Ryder As he lives in a Covidfree country and the elves are not migrant workers coming in from other countries, but they live and work there too, it is all good. The toys are also made on-site, so pretty safe. Plus factor in a contact-less delivery and no quarantine needed.

Yes 88%

No 12%

See Mahurangi Matters Facebook for more comments.

Kids ask for Covid cure New Zealand children writing letters to Santa Claus have modified their requests to the man in the red suit in the wake of Covid-19.

NZ Post staff undertaking secretarial duties for Santa say in addition to requests for items such as bikes, gaming consoles and Lego, many children are asking for a cure for Covid-19, jobs for their parents and the ability to see overseas family members again.

NZ Post spokesperson Sarah Sandoval says the requests show how compassionate Kiwi kids are. While the deadline has passed to receive a response from Santa to a conventional letter, Kiwi kids can still send Santa an online message by 5pm on Wednesday, December 23.

Visit: nzpost.co.nz/writetosanta

• Drainlayer • Plumbing • Gas Fitting • Septic Tank Systems & Design • Supply & Install Water Pumps & Filter Systems Email: warkworth@laserplumbing.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

MM180

Phone: (09) 422-9051

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 5

Viewpoint Beth Houlbrooke, Rodney Local Board beth.houlbrooke@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Speak up on roads Google Michigan roads and you will see the worst roads in the USA. Michigan’s roads are funded primarily from fuel taxes, but as vehicles become more efficient less tax is being collected. It is politically difficult to raise the tax because their fuel is already expensive, being the furthest state from where oil is produced and refined. Worldwide, the trend is towards cleaner energy. Electric vehicles use the same roads but are currently exempt from fuel tax and road user charges.

Auckland Council declared a Climate Emergency last year, so the Mayor’s proposal for the next 10-year budget includes spending on mitigating the effects of climate change. I say, we have our own more immediate crisis, and that is of failing infrastructure. Auckland Transport (AT) engineers tell us that they have insufficient budget to maintain roads to an adequate standard. They say they need a budget that allows them to maintain and renew 12 per cent of the roading network each year. The current allocation only achieves about half of that. The result? Our roads are increasingly becoming degraded, and it didn’t start recently. Decades of underinvestment means we are losing the battle. AT and their contractors are nearly always in a reactive phase of maintenance, rather than proactive and planned.

As Local Board members, we bear the brunt of customer dissatisfaction, but we don’t hold the purse strings, tender contracts, or set the terms. These are all undertaken by AT, which has its own board of directors. Its funding is allocated by the Governing Body of Auckland Council.

That is why in the upcoming Long Term Plan (the Council’s 10 year budget), we are once again advocating for increased funding for road maintenance, as well as a better spend of the road sealing budget. We have heard time and again that these are your highest priorities, and we agree. This is core Council business and they are failing on this most fundamental service.

What we really need now is for Rodney residents to submit, in volume, on the Long Term Plan when it comes out for consultation from February 22 to March 22 next year, and support the Rodney Local Board’s advocacy, so that the Governing Body hears this message loud and clear.

I do hope that our councillors have the courage to face the challenge of a $1 billion shortfall due to Covid-19 border restrictions on the country. Income from Auckland Airport, Ports of Auckland and bookings of our large venues and stadia, has been decimated. This hole can’t simply be plugged by cost cutting, staff cuts and salary reductions alone. Some brave decisions must be made to prevent Auckland from looking like Michigan, and we may all have to shoulder a piece of the burden to get this city back on its feet. To not do so will inevitably lead to higher costs and rates hikes further down the line.

Careless waste disposal sparks fires Auckland Council says there is a rising number of hazardous gas cooker canisters and lithium batteries being dumped in rubbish and recycling bins creating a fire hazard. Environment committee chair Councillor Richard Hills says the vigilance of rubbish truck operators and rigid safety protocols have so far avoided injuries, but this is a risk no one should have to face.

Keeping safe and busy this holiday season It’s hard to believe we are already drawing to a close on what will surely be one of the most unusual years for us all.

I was proud of my team for their quick response to the COVID-19 lockdowns and I’m even prouder of the hard work they have put in to catch up on the time we lost and move towards our new planned opening date of mid-May 2022.

We’ve already moved huge amounts of earth this season and we will continue to do so over the coming summer, as we complete our bulk earthworks.

Another big focus for us, and one road users should be aware of this summer, is the major work happening at the Southern Connection. This is where State Highway 1 (SH1) will connect with the new motorway just north of the Johnstones Hill Tunnels.

Work is taking place over four construction stages and will enable the widening of SH1 north of the tunnels, where it will eventually connect to the section of new motorway still under construction.

You will notice significant road layout changes while work is being undertaken and traffic management will be in place while this happens.

As always, safety is our highest priority, and the reduced speed limit of 60km/h will remain in place for the duration of the works. We ask that drivers keep to the temporary speed limit, drive to the conditions and don’t be distracted by work activity.

The new road layout and speed restrictions will remain in place over the holiday period, however we won’t be carrying out any physical work on SH1 over Christmas (23 December – 5 January) and we’ll be limiting the number of project vehicles, including trucks, on the highway.

As we make the most of the fine weather, some site activities (such as earthworks) will continue on select dates throughout the holidays. We’ll be monitoring our community helpline 24/7 so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Above all, we’d like to wish you and your families a safe and happy holiday season.

Ngā mihi Robert

Because it works The Taoist Tai Chi Society of NZ has been celebrating a significant birthday this year. It is 30 years since the Society began teaching Taoist Tai Chi in New Zealand and offering the benefits for health and wellness that our practise brings. Internationally, it is 50 years since our founder Master Moy Lin Shin began teaching Taoist Tai Chi arts around the world. The Society, a registered charity and not-for-profit organisation, is pleased to continue our involvement with the Warkworth and Wellsford communities. We continue to offer weekly classes in Taoist Tai Chi, taken by our volunteer instructors.

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

Email: northernttcs@gmail.com Tai chi is an ancient art that promotes holistic well-being for people of all ages

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

PG17771-0920

TM

6 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

An architect’s impression of what the eventual exhibit may look like.

John Street, right, officially handed the project over to Jim Wintle, left.

Purpose-built museum for salvaged 150-year-old ship A schooner that had been buried underneath the sand at Muriwai since 1865 will soon be housed in a purpose-built museum at the Historic Village in Mangawhai.

The Daring trading vessel was on its way to Manukau when she became a victim of gale-force winds, which threatened to wreck her on the Kaipara Bar. Her crew managed to pull her clear of the bar but she was nudged ashore some 12km further south where she would remain for more than 150 years.

In 2018, a series of unusually elevated tides unearthed the vessel, which was found to be remarkably preserved.

Soon afterwards, newspapers reported that the wreck was being pillaged with planks and railings being removed.

This caught the attention of outspoken Auckland maritime heritage enthusiast, John Street, and maritime writer,

Baden Pascoe, who quickly formed the Daring Rescue Group.

“The rat boy drug dealing gangs in Muriwai had begun taking bits off the ship,” John Street said at a ceremony promoting the project in Mangawhai last month.

“If we had waited to fundraise, it would have been burned or taken to pieces.”

Mr Street underwrote the majority of the $560,000 required to delicately remove the 16-metre (56 foot) vessel from the sand and return it to Mangawhai where she was built.

It was built by Donald McInnes and Donald Hugh McKenzie in 1863 at their Mangawhai shipyard, with the assistance of shipbuilders from the Nova Scotian settlement at Waipu.

The kauri planks and pohutukawa frame have been preserved by the briny sands in which it has been submerged.

Mr Street said the shipbuilders used “Muntz metal”, which contains copper, zinc and arsenic, and stops marine growth, to help keep it intact.

At the ceremony, Mr Street officially handed the rescue project over to Jim Wintle and the Mangawhai Daring Trust.

“I’m so glad it is coming to Mangawhai. We got b*ggered around by the supercity for so long. The town doesn’t know how lucky it is to be outside that boundary of morons,” Mr Street said.

Jim Wintle revealed his vision to build a world-class tourism and education facility that would be a draw to the town.

He says, all in all, the project will need to raise $4.4 million and he hopes the local community will chip in.

The Daring vessel is expected to arrive at the Historic Village in February or

March and will be temporarily housed in a building made from four shipping containers.

The Daring Trust is also looking for anyone who might be able to share their expertise or volunteer their time to work on the project.

The owner of the vessel when it was wrecked was Onehunga businessman David Kirkwood.

Thanks to the research efforts of the Daring Trust, at least five of his descendants were tracked down to attend the ceremony last month.

One of them was great-great-greatgranddaughter Tina Harris, who moved to Mangawhai 10 years ago and was surprised to learn of her historical connection to the town.

During his lifetime, Mr Kirkwood had one Scottish wife and two Maori wives, and so, for Tina, the event was something of an extended family reunion.

“Coming here is the best decision I ever made.” - Pat

The Oaks on Neville wish you a very Merry Christmas and Good Health for 2021 RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE AT ITS VERY BEST IN THE HEART OF WARKWORTH FOR MORE INFORMATION

Call Sylvie on 027 314 5767 or email sylvie.borrett@realliving.co.nz oaks.reception@realliving.co.nz The Oaks on Neville, 9 Queen St, Warkworth www.realliving.co.nz/warkworth

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

DAY OPEN SDAY,

THUR Y 28 R JANUA pm -3 10am

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 7

One Warkworth cans HOP card services in Warkworth One Warkworth will cease to offer HOP card and Gold HOP card services at the Warkworth Information Centre, after failing to secure more money from Auckland Transport (AT) to pay for them.

One Warkworth chair Mark Macky says One Warkworth has been providing the services on behalf of Auckland Transport for the last two years at a cost of thousands of dollars, which the organisation can no longer afford to absorb.

The HOP card is a reusable prepay smart card for travel on trains, ferries and buses around Auckland. A Gold HOP card provides concessions for senior citizens.

Mr Macky says repeated efforts by One Warkworth to get financial support from AT to provide these services have been rejected, and the Warkworth Information Centre will stop providing them from December 31.

After December 31, the closest place people in Warkworth can physically purchase HOP and Gold HOP cards is Orewa. New Gold HOP cards will need to be registered in Albany.

Mr Macky says One Warkworth had been optimistic that AT would see the importance of financially supporting the services, but it received correspondence on December 7 saying that a “funding model for a provider like the Warkworth Information

Centre was not possible”.

Mr Macky says with buses no longer accepting cash fares, this outcome is “hugely disappointing”.

“We are sorry for the inconvenience this will cause the local community, but we have exhausted our reserves,” he says.

One Warkworth believes that the Warkworth Information Centre is the only outlet in Auckland providing Gold card services without paid AT staff doing the work. It is also the last seller of HOP cards in the Mahurangi area.

AT spokesperson Mark Hannan says AT pays One Warkworth for the HOP services it provides, but cannot meet its request for more money.

“We have been trying to find a solution with One Warkworth for more than a year, but budgets are tight. We can only offer them the same contract as other HOP providers,” he says.

He added that AT was working on other solutions to provide HOP services to the Warkworth community.

“We are hoping to have something sorted in the next few weeks.”

Online purchasing and top-up of HOP cards remains unchanged.

Online purchases take about 10 working days to process and mail out.

Online top-ups can take up to 72 hours to be credited to a HOP card.

VOLUNTEER WANTED Want to help your community? CAB Wellsford is looking Celebrating 50-years helping New Zealand communities for men and women to join our team of volunteers to assist the people in your The Citizensto Advice Bureau is your localproblems. one-stopIfshop for anylike community help them find(CAB) solutions to their this sounds issue you may have; consumer andsome employee something youfrom might like to give time torights, give ustoa family call. and

tenancy problems, anything described Kāore i teand mārama?

Pātaielse mai. in between, Notas sure?

Ask us. by one of our team members: CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU WELLSFORD “I beganWellsford volunteering at the CAB because it gives a perfect way Community Centre, 1 Matheson Rd,me Wellsford 0900 to upskill meet while making a| www.cab.org.nz meaningful 09 423 myself 7333 orand 0800 367new 222 people, | wellsford@cab.org.nz Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am-3pm contribution to my community.

My role involves helping people on a diverse range of issues, by finding the right information for them, or referring them to one of the many specialist community organisations we are connected to. This provides a great learning experience and makes sure that no two days are ever the same. Best of all is the amount of satisfaction I get from making a real difference to people’s lives.” Pauline So, if you ever need help with anything and do not know where to start, come and talk to Pauline or any of our other friendly volunteers, we always look forward to seeing you.

CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU WELLSFORD Wellsford Community Centre, 1 Matheson Rd PH: 09 423 7333 | 0800 367 222 | Email: wellsford@cab.org.nz Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-2pm | www.cab.org.nz

LOVE LOCAL, LIVE LOCAL, LIST LOCAL! Hello, Deborah Moon of Harcourts here again and as you know I just love all things Wellsford! So much so, in the spirit of Christmas I’ve decided to giveaway a fabulous festive hamper worth $500 with ‘all things Wellsford’ in it! Think lots of locally sourced goodies only as my aim is to support local businesses and services in our area.

All you need do is list your property with me

by February 28 and go in the draw to win a great prize – it’s that easy! So what are you waiting for?! Call me now for a free noobligation market appraisal.

The property market in our area has changed dramatically and we’re finding property owners are surprised to discover the current value of their property.

For your FREE market appraisal give Deborah Moon a call today.

021 518 646

deborah.moon@harcourts.co.nz

Tandem Realty Tandem Realty Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

8 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

VISIT OUR STORE

Spoil yourself for Christmas

OR SEE OUR WEBSITE

and start New Year with a great nights sleep!

W E

C A N

DELIVER

TO YOUR DOOR

A Christmas Delight

Oasis 36 Queen Mattress and Base $1999.00

Fruit Mince Fudge

with free Cloud 9 bed pack

Includes 2 x pillows, mattress protector & duvet inner, value $174.99.

We stock the complete Oasis Range. See which one suits you!

INCLUDES FREE delivery & we will even take away your old bed.

Dress your Christmas table Francoise Paviot Napkin Balls Gold On White $18.99

Napkins Francoise Paviot $9.99

Gold Rimmed Platter $69.99

Amorosso glasses, set of 2 $24.99

We have the be st selection of La Chamba dishes available

Michel Design Works Bouquet Hand and Body Lotion $40.99

400g dark cooking chocolate, coarsely chopped 395g sweetened condensed milk 50g unsalted butter 1/2 cup prepared afruit mince* You can also use Gluten Free Fruit Mince 1/3 cup slivered almonds, roasted, plus 1/4 cup extra Method Lightly grease a 20cm square cake tin. Line base and sides with baking paper, extending paper 2cm above the tin edge.

In a medium saucepan, combine chocolate, condensed milk and butter. Stir over a low heat for 4-6 minutes or until smooth. Remove from the heat and stir fruit mince and almonds through.

Spoon into prepared tin, ensuring it’s smooth and even on the top.

Sprinkle with extra almonds and chill overnight. Cut into squares and serve.

La Chamba Range from $8.99

DON’T MISS OUT! Offers valid to 31st December 2020 (or while stocks last)

DRUMMERS HOMESTORE 225 Rodney Street, Wellsford 0900 • ph 09 423 9077 sales@drummers.co.nz • www.drummers.co.nz Open Tuesday - Friday 9am - 5pm For the best sleep of your life!

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Don’t forget the Children we have lots of new games & toys instore

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 9

Kaipara water leak eviction averted An overdue water account that threatened to make a solo mother living in Maungaturoto homeless just 10 days before Christmas has been resolved.

Joy Robinson was packing her bags when she received a call from her bank telling her that they were revising her case.

“The bank employee told me they had dropped the ball, handled the case badly and humbly apologised for the stress that I’d been through,” Joy said.

“I thought ‘pinch me – this can’t be real’. If you had told me that this would happen this morning, I wouldn’t have believed you. I was packing my bags because they were coming to change the locks next week.”

Joy’s ordeal began when a major water leak went undetected while she was with her disabled son in hospital earlier this year.

This left her with an $18,000 water bill owed to Kaipara District Council.

Joy says she rang her bank and asked it not to direct debit the money, as she was asking the Council to review the bill. However, the bank paid the bill anyway, saddling her with an unarranged overdraft and substantial additional bank fees.

She paid $10,000 but had been unable to find the remaining $8000 on top of her mortgage repayments.

She says the bank refused to extend her mortgage and had given her until December 16 to leave the house she had inherited from her mother.

Then the bank was asked by Mahurangi Matters for comment.

ASB executive general manager retail banking Craig Sims said he couldn’t comment on specific customer circumstances, but the bank would not be initiating any mortgagee sale processes between now and the end of January.

“We are committed to keeping our customers in their family homes, and working with them to get

Joy’s sister Cyndi started a Givealittle page in a desperate attempt to save Joy from being evicted.

the best outcomes we can, without causing further undue financial stress,” he says.

Joy says the bank has given her several options for resolving her financial commitments, including an interest free loan.

Kaipara District Council, which initially said it would not refund the payment for the leak, has also come to the party.

A Council officer visited Joy’s home and helped her to fill out forms to apply for a credit for the costs incurred by the leak.

“I was so relieved I had to call my sister straight away.”

Pedestrian crossing delayed Auckland Transport (AT) has delayed the completion of a new raised pedestrian crossing in Warkworth’s Woodcocks Road until the school holidays in a bid to ease congestion. The construction works between the western entrance of Mahurangi College and Glenmore Drive caused traffic chaos earlier this month, so remaining line painting and drainage works have been postponed. An AT spokesman said the crossing should still be finished by Christmas.

Warkworth library manager Lisa Outwin, left, with regional library manager Megan Grimshaw-Jones.

Celebration for librarian

Family, friends and colleagues gathered in Warkworth last week for an afternoon tea to celebrate library manager Lisa Outwin’s 20 years of service to Rodney and Auckland Libraries. Regional library manager Megan Grimshaw-Jones led a number of glowing tributes to Lisa, citing her care for her staff and customers, her many skills and her generosity.

“Nothing is too much trouble, you constantly put others first, you’re self-effacing and handle changes with due care, practicality and good humour,” she said. “We are so lucky to have you.”

Lisa said libraries had changed a lot in the past two decades and she had loved every minute in her role.

“Things have come a long way since I started,” she said. “I think our customer service is pretty amazing now. The best thing is all the awesome people I work with. I couldn’t have chosen a better career.”

We specialise in custom-designed commercial and industrial steel frame buildings, with two unique structural systems, the patented Tapered Box Beam and Bracketless Portal Systems. Both structures offer unlimited design possibilities, bird and vermin-resistance, and truly outstanding span capabilities, with the Tapered Box Beam reaching out to 75m.

Contact your local North Harbour Team 09 425 7088 www.coresteel.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

10 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Thank you everyone for supporting local The winners of the Christmas Selfie Competition are: $500 Prezzy Card: Kelsea Smith – Crystal Waters $250 Prezzy Card: Lindsay Best – Smith’s Sport Shoes $250 Prezzy Card: Jeff – Warkworth Menswear Private tour motorway project: Amy Wagstaff – Pete & Mary’s Eatery Leigh Glass Bottom Boat Tour: Kristina Simatupang – Let it Brew Café Jane Gifford Tour: Mark & Kim Lee – Warkworth Menswear Matakana River Tour: Warwick Hambleton Mahurangi Vision Centre Matakana Oyster Farms Tour: Kerrie Hudson – Warehouse Stationery Annual family membership Warkworth Tennis Club: Lisa Partridge - Life Pharmacy Franklins 4 green fees and 2 carts Warkworth Golf Club: Kath Duncan – Armstrong Locksmiths

Winner of the $500 Prezzy Card, Kelsea Smith.

www.onewarkworth.co.nz/christmasselfiecomp

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

christmascheer

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 11

christmascheer Gift of wooden toys set to brighten Christmas for kids FE AT URE

The enormous pile of gifts under the Christmas tree at the Mahurangi Matters office got a spectacular boost with the donation of around half a dozen beautifully handcrafted wooden toys.

Among the creations was a train, a fire engine, a helicopter, a bulldozer and a number of trucks.

They are all the handiwork of retired Warkworth resident Stewart Shirley.

Stewart, 89, says he feels for children who suffer, and it’s not necessarily just children from poor families. He says many rich kids are neglected because both parents are too busy working and making money.

“I don’t worry whether they are rich or poor. If you can put a smile on a kid’s face, you have done a good day’s work,” he says.

Toys left under the Mahurangi Matters tree were donated to Women’s Centre Rodney and Homebuilders to brighten Christmas for children

from struggling families.

Stewart formerly ran a timber business in Matakana and began making wooden toys for his 11 grandchildren following his retirement.

But the hobby became all-consuming.

As his grandchildren got older, his toy production eventually outstripped demand, and toys began to fill up every available shelf space in his house and garage.

Stewart says the toys are produced in a tiny corner of his garden shed – a space he must share with his wife, who runs a bonsai business.

But although his workspace is small, Stewart says he has acquired a good collection of tools.

“I think I must have bought out Mitre 10 lock, stock and barrel,” he says.

Right, Stewart Shirley says putting a smile on a child’s face amounts to a good day’s work.

Santa Claus travels by boat to Warkworth Town crier Dave Parker will welcome Santa Claus to Warkworth on the pontoon at Warkworth Wharf on Monday, December 21. Santa will travel up the Mahurangi River on the “Little Jane” – the landing craft for the Jane Gifford. He is due to arrive at 1pm. Children are invited to come along, join in the welcome and follow Santa through Queen Street singing Christmas carols.

Mr Parker says it’s a real joy to be able to welcome Santa to Warkworth at last, following the cancelling of the traditional Warkworth Santa Parade this year due to Covid-19. He says it will be a pleasure to see more Christmas spirit here.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Sculptureum

Join Rothko at Sculptureum for an international culinary journey (no passport required!), then explore our galleries and rear gardens by night, followed by a magical midnight fireworks display.

Dec 31st, 6pm – midnight. Tickets $195pp including: • • • • • •

Cocktail and Canapes Rothko Restaurant 5-course Global Dining Menu International Dance Group Entertainment followed by live Latin Jazz Music Galleries and rear Gardens Experience by night Glass of Laurent Perrier Champagne Fireworks Display at midnight

For tickets call our friendly team on 09 9557172 or email rothko@sculptureum.net. Full payment is required upon booking.

See www.sculptureum.nz/whatson for more details.

40 Omaha Flats Road, Matakana.

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

christmascheer

12 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

Elf Colin Smith and Tania Hamilton

Te Kura Kaupapa Maori float

Santa Claus stole the show as usual.

Santa wows in Wellsford There were 19 floats and walking groups at the Wellsford Santa Parade last month.

Organiser Tania Hamilton said it was amazing to see such a great community turnout.

Every entrant got a prize this year, thanks to a donation from head elf and Rodney Local Board member Colin Smith.

Two schools entered the parade – Te Kura Kaupapa Maori O Ngaringaomatariki and Tapora School. In a show of community mindedness, the two

schools shared their prize money.

This year’s winners were: Best overall winner – Bright Laundry; business section – Bright Laundry 1; Kingfisher Farm 2, Chris ‘the power guy’ Bright 3; children’s section –Tapora School 1, Te Kura Kaupapa Maori O Ngaringaomatariki 2; community section – Wellsford Fire Brigade & Marshal from Paw Patrol 1, Wellsford Christian Fellowship 2, Wellsford Toy Library 3; walking section – Plunket & the Blue Bear 1, Wellsford St John 2, Wellsford School 3.

Te Kura Kaupapa Maori O Ngaringaomatariki

Kingfisher Farm

Pick Your Own We are open for

Strawberries

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Bring Your Own Container, Bucket, Bag or Bowl

9am to 5pm

Thursday 10th - Sunday 13th December Thursday 17th - Sunday 20th December Wednesday 23rd - Thursday 24th December/Christmas Eve Sunday 27th - Thursday 31st December/New Years Eve Sunday 3rd - Monday 4th January Thursday 7th - Sunday 10th January

256 Omaha Flats Road, Omaha www.matakanaberryco.co.nz

christmascheer

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 13

Cannabidiol (CBD) Products in Pharmacy OPEN 7 DAYS Currently in New Zealand Cannabidiol liquid (CBD) is a 48 Queen Street, Warkworth medicine which is only available on prescription from a 09 425 sourced 8014 from hemp NZ doctor. CBD Ph: liquid is naturally plants and could have therapeutic potential, depending Fax:a 09 425 8024 on what people are treating.

retail@franklinspharmacy.co.nz

The difference between CBD and THC is that there are www.lifepharmacyfranklins.co.nz no psychoactive effects on the body with CBD (or feeling high).

FOR ALL YOUR

CBD has the potential for a wide range of clinical benefits such as: chronic pain, nausea/vomiting, anxiety, antiseizure, anti-inflammatory or sleep. The medicine is generally well tolerated with few side effects. CBD isn’t suitable for everyone and ultimately it is up to your doctor Prescriptions to determine whether or not it is acceptable for you.

Wellsford Fire Brigade

Franklins Pharmacy has partnered with CBD supplier Green Pharma to provide our patients with a cost Care Health effective alternative to current options currently available on the market. These products have been independently assessed by NZ based Hill laboratories giving Essentials you peace Beauty of mind surrounding the product.

Due to the referendum not passing, it has restricted the access to these types of medications andGifts overseas suppliers have been able to set the price as they see fit. Therefore I have made it a priority of mine to source directly, to keep the costs of this medication down for my customers.

Bright Laundry

AUTOMOTIVE

&

AUTOELECTRICAL

EUROPEAN CAR SPECIALISTS BATTERIES | DIAGNOSTICS

If you are currently taking CBD liquid or thinking about trying it, then feel free to give us a call at Franklin’s PHARMACY HOURS Pharmacy or visit the website for more information www.greenpharma.co.nz

Mon to Fri: 8:30am to 5:30pm Sat: 9am to 7pm - Sun: 10am to 3pm

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!

Thanks for your support over 2020.

Xmas Hours: Closed 24th December 2020 to 5th January 2021 BOOK NOW FOR 2021! | Honest, Friendly Service

09 422 3222

27 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth www.strautomotive.co.nz

OPEN 7 DAYS Mon to Fri: 8.30am to 5.30pm, Sat: 9am to 5pm, Sun: 10am to 3pm

48 Queen Street, Warkworth | Phone 09-425 8014 Send Prescriptions to: dispensary@franklinspharmacy.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

christmascheer

14 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

Reduce, reuse and recycle holiday waste

Glenda Peake with some of the many Santas on display.

Santas turn up to support museum An abundance of Santa Claus figures in the Warkworth Museum’s Christmas collections persuaded museum volunteers they would make a perfect window display.

Accordingly, more than 100 Santas are appearing this month in the window of Warworth’s Paper Plus as part of a museum profile-raising exercise.

Santas appear among other museum toys such as prams, trikes and trucks, dating from around the 1950s.

Volunteer Glenda Peake says in addition to those in the museum collection, volunteers sourced Santas from home and op shops.

Some were purchased overseas, some are handknitted and some are homemade. One Santa is completely made of beads.

Children stopping by the window can take part in a Santa quiz, inviting them to find, among other things, a train-driving Santa, a sax-playing Santa, and the number of Santas wearing green mittens.

Glenda says the museum is grateful to Paper Plus for providing the space.

She adds it’s good to highlight the museum as she feels it is sometimes an underutilised community resource.

Food donations needed for local families Wellsford foodbank Loaves and Fishes still needs donations of non-perishable food for its Christmas hamper parcels for families in need. Anything is welcome, but particularly canned fruit and vegetables, spaghetti, penne, spiral or macaroni pasta, family bags of biscuits, flour, sugar, crackers, cereal, and so on.

All donations are appreciated and can be dropped until Sunday, December 20 at Mike Pero Wellsford in Rodney Street, Clever Endeavours in Worker Road and the Hospice Shop in the main street.

Christmas means a third more rubbish being thrown away than usual, so Mahurangi Wastebusters is urging local residents to box clever when it comes to keeping festive refuse out of landfill.

The group’s two waste and recycling centres will be open during their normal opening hours except for three days – Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Saturday, January 2, when both sites will be closed. Lawrie Road at Snells Beach will otherwise be open from 8.30am to 4pm every Thursday to Saturday and 9.30am to 4pm on Sundays, while Rustybrook Road in Wellsford will open from 10am to 2pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Residents are being urged to recycle as much as possible, from extra bottles and cans up to e-waste, cardboard and polystyrene packaging. In addition, real Christmas trees can be dropped off for processing by sustainable waste company Green Gorilla for $7.50 per tree. Wastebusters says the shops at both sites are also a good option to buy items rescued from landfill, such as bikes, toys, sports equipment, tools and housewares, whether for Christmas gifts or New Year bargains.

Mahurangi Wastebusters board member Trish Allen says there are plenty of ways to limit the amount of rubbish going to landfill over the holiday season.

She suggests reducing gift wrap by using a tea towel, beach towel, scarf or T-shirt to wrap presents in and making the wrap part of the gift, or reuse old wrapping paper, calendars or wallpaper offcuts instead of buying new.

She also encourages people to give gifts of time, energy or experience instead of buying new “stuff ”, such as vouchers for a meal out, exhibition or a show, or maybe pledge to do something like a house clean or organise a picnic.

“By putting a little thought into it and taking a little extra care, we can make a big difference,” she says.

Info: mahurangiwastebusters.nz

Little & Local is welcoming you th summer Open from 8am daily for brunch (7 days) & dinner (5 days) Monday

Brunch Menu

6pm Close

Tuesday

Brunch Menu

6pm Close

Wednesday

Brunch Menu by Day Curry & Wine Night

9pm Close

Thursday

Brunch Menu by Day Italian - Pizza, Pasta & Peroni

9pm Close

Friday

Brunch Menu by Day Ala Carte Menu by Night

10pm Close

Saturday

Brunch Menu by Day Ala Carte Menu by Night

10pm Close

Sunday

Brunch Menu by Day Sunday Roast

9pm Close

#lovingourlocals

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

9/280 Mahurangi East Road, Mahurangi Shopping Centre, Snells Beach 09 425 5886 | info@jireh.net.nz www.facebook.com/littleandlocal

christmascheer

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 15

Young people gather in front of the Cessna 206 after their first flight. From left, Jacob Paul, Helen Gwyn, Mark Fox (MAF), Ricky Baker, Alisha Daniels, Sam McNeil, Jemma Nawton and Rick Velvin (pilot).

MAF gives youth chance to fly Young people from Springboard Community Works got their first ever chance to fly in a light plane after a Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) Cessna 206 landed at Kaipara Flats Airfield this month.

The 40-year-old Cessna has been retired from international service with MAF and now visits airfields around New Zealand promoting the organisation’s work.

MAF New Zealand chief executive Mark Fox says someone had the nice idea to take local youth, who had perhaps experienced tough times, for a scenic flight while the plane was in Kaipara.

MAF is a charitable organisation that

uses airplanes to assist remote, poorer communities.

Mr Fox said the six-seater Cessna had previously spent much of its life in Cambodia delivering teachers and health workers to remote villages and conducting medical evacuations.

He said planes were also used to deliver produce from remote areas to bigger markets, thereby helping their economic development.

Springboard youth were taken on a 20-minute scenic flight of Omaha and Snells Beach. One marvelled at how pristine the water looked and how it was possible to make out features on the land, including animals.

FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON DURING DECEMBER & JANUARY

30

%

OFF

ALL PURCHASES

Established NZ 1973

Phone 09 425 7404 | 18 Neville Street, Warkworth (along from Countdown, opp Mahurangi Matters)

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

christmascheer

16 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

Zoe Gimring and four-year-old Eris, of Pakiri, found what they were looking for at the market in Leigh.

‘Tis the season to spend

Penny’s Toffee fans were able to stock up for Christmas at the market in Leigh.

Local talent was on display at markets held around the district this month, giving people shopping for Secret Santas and Christmas presents plenty of choice. There were tables of home-baked cakes and sweets, as well as pottery, toys, mosaics, jewellery, clothing and lots more. According to internet site Finder, the average New Zealander spends $624 at Christmas, although Aucklanders are a little more enthusiastic, spending an average of $731. Women also spend slightly more than men, and traditionally, the bulk of spending goes on gifts ($319), followed by travel ($227), charitable donations ($31) and decorations ($26).

Martha Hope Stafford with an example of her thread painting. “The snapper is always popular,” she said.

Margaret Olsen (left) and her daughter Zara Astrop were kept busy selling a selection Zara’s Christmas cakes and fudge at the Warkworth Town Hall Market.

Santa ditched his North Pole gear for a pair of board shorts when he stopped by the Warkworth Town Hall on a hot summer’s day. Savannah Best, 4, of Warkworth, confided in him that she would like a kitten for Christmas.

Totara Park Retirement Village resident Gwyn Beart with some of her colourful creations.

I’m on the move!

Look out for my new Warkworth Office 62-64 Queen Street, Warkworth.

For appointments & assistance please phone: 0800 582 325. marja.lubeck@parliament.govt.nz

Marja Lubeck

Labour List MP based in Kaipara ki Mahurangi Authorised by Marja Lubeck, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 17

BATTERY SPECIALS 260cca 330cca 450cca / 650cca 700cca / NS70 820cca / N70zz DIN55

TOSSI Jackie Russell, TOSSI www.tossi.org.nz

$110* $125* $150* $180* $195* $225* $205*

Ride-on Small Cars Medium Cars Falcons/Commodores 4x4/tractors 4x4/tractors Small European cars

WE HAVE BATTERIES TO SUIT ALL APPLICATIONS

*Above prices with trade in. 2 Year Warranty on new batteries.

Bringing back the birds

Twinkle Tow n’ Tyre

Something I love about volunteering with TOSSI is finding myself in the back and beyond of Tāwharanui Peninsula – exploring hideaways within the open sanctuary that most visitors miss. A recent tour hosted by Auckland Council park rangers and experienced TOSSI members was an opportunity to discover more about the whenua and witness the outcomes achieved by visionaries.

Monitoring seabirds at night at Tāwharanui.

An intriguing project is the seabird nesting boxes, hidden on a clifftop away from hordes of trail walkers. Seabirds are remarkable beings, spending long periods at sea and then crash-landing into coastal pōhutukawa and dropping to the ground where they dig nesting burrows. Grey-faced petrels and fluttering shearwaters are no longer a common sight on mainland coastal cliffs, preferring to nest on islands where they are protected from rats, stoats and cats.

Seabirds have discovered relative safety within Tāwharanui sanctuary and from early autumn onwards they arrive at the site to peruse the latest real estate on offer. Recorded seabird calls project from a nearby sound system to attract and anchor them to the site. After choosing their mate and their home, the birds disappear for several weeks before returning to the nesting boxes to lay a single egg. The boxes were introduced to accelerate the development of a seabird colony in the sanctuary and they are so comfy, little blue penguins have become uninvited squatters in some of them. There are a few neighbourhood squabbles and even bloody battles between the native species. It is a good sign that some seabirds prefer to do the hard work and dig their own nesting burrows.

TOSSI volunteers, Auckland Council park rangers, tertiary students and Northern New Zealand Seabird Trust members monitor the birds’ progress – from nesting to eggs, to chicks, to fledglings. The greatest threat remains predation, with rats, cats and stoats being a serious danger and the determined pests will swim and scamper many kilometres to feed on native birds. An outstanding accomplishment is the nesting of Cook’s petrel within the Tāwharanui sanctuary – possibly the only naturally established pair on New Zealand’s mainland.

Formerly, this small grey and white petrel was only known to breed on Little Barrier, Great Barrier and Codfish Island.

Prior to European settlement the cliffs and coastlines were nesting havens and the wildlife significantly contributed to the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems.

Nitrogen and phosphorus-rich guano, produced by millions of seabirds, would have created natural nutrient hot spots and provided essential runoff to native land and sea plants. They would have dug and trampled the soil and deposited nesting materials and seeds. How impressive it would be to see a huge flurry of seabird activity return to Tāwharanui, bringing with it all the benefits of greater biodiversity and restorative balance.

MASON CONTAINERS LIMITED

1837 State Highway One Kaiwaka

P 09 431 2823 M 021 833 960

Serving and Protecting our Community for over 15 Years

INSITE SECURITY Peace of mind these holidays

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL • New Alarms - Design, Install & Service • CCTV - Design, Install & Service • Panic Alarms • Fire Alarm Systems • Access Control Systems • Alarm Monitoring • Rapid Response 24/7 • Premise Patrols • Lockup Checks

FOR ALL Let Insite SecurityYOUR protect SECURITY your home, bach orNEEDS! business

while you enjoy the holidays Insite7113 for your Call Now on Contact (09) 425 FREE SECURITY appraisal.

09 425 7113 www.insitesecurity.co.nz 127

Contact Insite for your FREE SECURITY appraisal.

insitesecurity.co.nz

Alarm and CCTV Camera design, installation and servicing.

Fire Systems Lock-up Checks Night Patrols 24/7 Security Monitoring

Serving and Protecting our Community for over 15 Years

Container Sales Container Site-Hire Self-Storage Hiab Cartage

( 0800 833 323

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL

11 Sanderson Road, Warkworth | Mon-Fri 8am to 5pm or by appointment (Phone from gate) | admin@masoncontainers.co.nz | www.masoncontainers.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

• New Alarms - Design, Install & Service

FOR ALL

18 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Team BBQWAR show off their “tankosaurus” grilling machine.

Joe Hermon led Blitzkrieg BBQ to victory.

Top barbecue competitors from all over the country heaped generous praise on the Whangateau Holiday Park, following a successful “Smoke on the Coast” event on December 5 and 6.

Organiser Derrick Paull says he picked the venue after fond memories of holidaying at the park as a child.

He says it’s the first time Whangateau has hosted the event. Feedback has been virtually unanimous from competitors that the site, overlooking Omaha Bay, is the best in New Zealand for a barbecue competition.

Teams cooked several meat dishes over a 24 hour period for the competition, including pork ribs,

The winner of the Steak Cookoff Association title was Derrick Paull, who just managed to beat off rival contenders Michael Cook and Steven Cook.

Mr Paull says he was thrilled to see so many of the barbecue whanau enjoying the weekend and soaking up the sun, sea and “thin blue smoke”.

“Nothing makes me happier than to see our friends elevating and encouraging each other to achieve bigger and better things together,” he says.

The Smoke on the Coast event returns to Whangateau Holiday Park on Anzac Day Weekend next year (April 24 and 25).

‘Sensational’ barbecue thrills judges at Whangateau pork shoulder, chicken and brisket, and several national titles were up for grabs.

Judges awarded honours following blind tastings and senior judge Andy Rowe described the standard this year as “sensational”.

The Blitzkrieg BBQ team, led by Joe Hermon, won Grand Champion of Smoke on the Coast and The Smoking Meathouse, led by Brendan Reisima, won the NZ Barbecue Alliance National Championship.

Sadly, local hopefuls Matakana Smoke Eaters, led by Duncan Anderson, turned in some fine meats but failed to place among the finalists.

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

localmatters.co.nz

Michael Cook applies the sauce with brother Steven.

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 19

Glenn Manning, of The Smokin ‘Que, conducts a taste test.

Wharf st Bistro Overlooking the river in the heart

WWW.WHARFSTREETBISTRO.COM

of Warkworth, Wharf street bistro is a charismatic eatery serving hear-warming food.

Ph: 09 422 2511 info@wharfstreetbistro.com 1 Wharf Street, Warkworth

The decor is intimate and warm, relax and enjoy fabulous cocktails on the sunny balcony. Our highly acclaimed menu includes fresh seafood & organic meat. We serve

After hours of cooking BBQ Pitbros find time to relax. From left, David Glynn, Rich Blair, Ben Littler and Nick Borland.

an excellent selection of NZ wine and local craft beer.

Thanks for all your support and have a very Merry Christmas.

Looking for a superb building job that will get completed, will work and will last?

021 935 509 | murray@murrayholtbuilders.co.nz |www. murrayholtbuilders.co.nz | 355 Old Kaipara Road, Warkworth Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

20 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Mary-Anne Boyd thanked supporters Kaumatua Ben Hita, of Te Uri o Hau, leads a blessing ceremony in the new workspace. of the Workspace project.

Dr Jason Smith celebrated the fact that people could create art together.

Mangawhai residents eager to develop their artistic talents will have fresh opportunities to do so, following the opening of the Mangawhai Art Workspace.

The workspace was created by extending the existing Mangawhai Artists’ Gallery and will be used to host art classes and workshops.

The 62-square-metre workspace was officially opened by Kaipara Mayor Dr Jason Smith before a gathering of around 100 people on December 5.

In 2018, Mangawhai Artists Inc organised a community fundraising campaign that successfully raised

Lea Watson was among the prize winners in the Mangawhai Artists Youth Art Showcase competition.

Workspace offers chance for artists to work together

CG038 wholefoods pantry adƒpaths.indd 1

$175,000 to construct the space.

Dr Smith told the gathering that projects such as the workspaces didn’t happen without the great leadership that exists in communities such as Mangawhai.

He celebrated the fact that the workspace provided an opportunity for people to create art together, rather than being forced to do it at home alone.

“I would like to congratulate everyone who is involved with this,” he said.

Speaking after the opening, Mangawhai Artists’ chair Mary-Anne Boyd said the previous gallery space had only limited

opportunities to conduct workshops, because of the lack of room and the absence of a toilet.

Now workshops would be able to be conducted year round and half a dozen tutors were already lining up, eager to make use of the space.

She thanked community members for contributing money for the project and also local tradies who had done additional work without charging.

“Art plays a significant part in the general wellbeing of a community. It gives people a kind of focal point for connecting with other people,” she said.

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

23/11/20 10:33 AM

719

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 21

Paths saved by targeted rate Key footpath projects in Rodney will go ahead despite Covid-19 budget cuts, thanks to the bulk of funding being switched from Auckland Council’s local board transport capital fund to the Rodney Local Board’s transport targeted rate.

Seven paths in Warkworth, Wellsford, Omaha, Dairy Flat and Riverhead were due to be built and paid for using Rodney’s transport capital fund, which stood at around $2.9 million before Covid-19, but was slashed to just over $286,000 in Council’s Emergency Budget.

Last month, members voted to allocate that amount to two of the paths and fund the rest of the cost of them and others from its transport targeted rate.

Board chair Phelan Pirrie said with so much money lost from the transport capital fund, it was important to keep these projects live and to spend what was possible.

“It’s being done in tranches, we’re getting these out of the way from the transport capital fund first,” he said.

“These are essentials – the next tranche will be fairly straightforward ones, then there are some really tricky ones we’ll have a discussion about next year.”

Wellsford member Colin Smith queried the cost estimates for all the paths.

“I can’t understand why these footpaths are so expensive,” he said.

“It costs $1900 per linear metre for a 2.5 metre footpath, these are nearly

$150,000 a metre.

“We’re talking to our ratepayers because we’ve got a hole in the budget, and then we’re blowing money on footpaths – it’s just stupid.”

Auckland Transport principal engineer Susan Barakat said these were high level estimates that included consultancy reports, design, and other items.

“We’re not going to get actual figures until we start,” she said.

Members heard that the Omaha and Wellsford paths should be underway by the end of the year, with the others happening next year.

The first tranch of footpaths being put in are as follows (cost estimates in brackets): Hudson Road, Warkworth ($235,000 from the transport capital fund, $398,000 from the transport targeted rate); Dairy Flat Highway, outside the school ($52,000 from the Local Board transport capital fund, $440,000 from the transport targeted rate); Omaha Drive, Omaha Beach ($645,000); School Road, Wellsford ($257,000); Coatesville Riverhead Highway, Dairy Flat ($340,000); Newton Road, Riverhead ($763,000); Alice Street, Riverhead ($474,000) Next in line locally will be three paths in and around Warkworth Goodall Road ($458,000), Leigh Road ($363,000) and Puhoi Road ($757,000) - and Rodney Street, Wellsford ($1,426,000).

Wishing all our customers a happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year, and thank you for your loyal support during 2020

Intimate Apparel

Wishing you a very stmas Merry Chri ul and wonderf New Year

Phone 09 425 4555

Unit 1, 347 Mahurangi East Road, Snells Beach Next to Snells Beach Medical Centre

The Real Estate Lady

Thanks for all your support and wishing you happy holidays and a safe and prosperous 2021!

Call Di today on 027 449 3804 di.scott@bayleys.co.nz

jenni.marsh@bayleys.co.nz

Lingerie Specialists

1/62 Queen St, Warkworth | 09 425 8522 25 7640 • 41 Queen Street, Warkworth www.bayleys.co.nz @IntimateApparelWarkworth | www.intimateapparel.co.nz

Monday to Friday: 8.30am - 5.30pm Saturday & Sunday: Closed Fax: 09 425 7173 Email: unichemsnells@xtra.co.nz

Mackys Real Estate Ltd, Licensed under REA Act 2008

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Bayleys Warkworth 09 425 7640 41 Queen Street, Warkworth www.bayleys.co.nz

22 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Rock pool plundering prompts petition Summer fun at local A group of Omaha residents fear continued Mahurangi libraries plundering of marine creatures from beach rock pools will render the rocks devoid of sealife.

Resident Mary Coupe has gathered neighbours together to launch a petition to Parliament, formally asking the Government to reduce the number of several identified species that an individual can take.

“We want to make sure that when we take future generations of tots down to the rock pools, we can show them shrimp, oysters and rock crabs,” Mary says.

She says on a sunny weekend she has seen up to 70 visitors harvesting whatever they can find from the rock pools at Omaha.

Mary has seen them use tools, including piano wire, to strip the rocks of shellfish such as periwinkles and limpets.

She says those plundering often take away large buckets filled with all manner of sea creatures.

Resident Jill Rowdon says she has seen visitors use “tickler sticks” to prod octopuses, which then clasp the stick and are easily speared.

Another resident says plunderers even take starfish.

“They put them on a kebab, and I’ve heard they taste like kina when they are opened and cooked,” the resident said.

Residents first discussed seeking enforcement of existing law, but were shocked to discover the large volumes of sea creatures being taken from pools may be within generous legal limits.

Residents Stuart and Sandy Grant think the legal allowance of 250 oysters per person each day is far too many, especially if a family of four collects 1000 oysters.

They say they have seen people setting up tents at the beach for overnight stays while harvesting over multiple days.

In the Auckland and Northland regions, each individual is allowed a combined take of 50 crabs, limpets, starfish, periwinkles, cats eyes and

The petition was launched at Omaha last month by Mary Coupe and MP Chris Penk.

sea cucumbers.

“What we each take as individuals adds up quickly,” Mary says.

“Look and feast with your eyes, and leave well enough alone so that ecosystems can do their glorious thing.”

Former marine biologist Alysn Midgelow-Marsden has joined the cause and is hoping to work with the Auckland University Institute of Marine Science to understand how sustainable current take limits are.

Alysn lives in Tawharanui where the marine reserve prohibits taking sealife. She says she doesn’t understand how plundering can be allowed to occur directly around the corner at Omaha.

“It’s evident how marine reserves benefit the whole ecosystem by allowing protected sealife to spread out into the ocean.”

The petition is open for signatures on the petitions page of the Parliament website.

It will close in March 2021, and will then be presented to a select committee by Kaipara ki Mahurangi MP Chris Penk.

Libraries in Warkworth, Wellsford and Mahurangi East have a range of activities and reading challenges aimed at readers young and old throughout the summer holidays.

In the run-up to Christmas there is Christmas crafting at Warkworth daily between 10am and 4pm, on December 16 and 23 (plus a festive movie) at Wellsford from 2.30pm, and on Saturday, December 19 from 10.30am to noon at Mahurangi East.

Santa will be dropping into Snells Beach on Tuesday, December 22 for Mahurangi East’s Christmas Storytime, which will also feature pass the parcel and a gingerbread house.

Then, starting on January 5, Auckland Libraries is urging all kids to “take a ride on the reading wave” with Reading Wave and Book Bingo challenges, which run for a month. There is also a wide range of free activities including Minecraft and Lego at Wellsford, movies and technology at Warkworth and Matalab robot coding workshops at all libraries throughout January.

Wellsford library manager Jamie Robertson says the range of activities during December and January are all designed to be ongoing across several hours to give families increased flexibility.

Adults don’t miss out, either, as Auckland Libraries has compiled a Top 100 books for summer holiday reading. There are 10 different top 10 categories best of the decade, fiction, non-fiction, 2020 vision, in translation, diverse voices, for kids, life and times, for teens and graphics for all ages. And from Friday, December 18, Mahurangi East is running an adult Armchair Traveller summer reading promotions in association with local businesses For details on all these activities, and bookings for the robot coding workshops, call into your local library, check each library’s Facebook page or call 0800 695427.

FROM THE TEAM AT TANDEM REALTY Warkworth: 09 425 7889 Matakana: 09 422 9444 Snells Beach: 09 425 4950

warkworth.harcourts.co.nz Harcourts Warkworth & Surrounds

s a m t s i Chr

Merry

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Tandem Realty Limited Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Tandem Realty

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 23

Send your nominations to editor@localmatters.co.nz

Congratulations to Shane Gould, of Langs Beach, who is a recipient of a gift basket from Chocolate Brown. Shane was nominated by Nicola Paterson, who wrote:

Your first call for veterinary care...

For 25 years, Shane Gould has “worked for the North Rodney

Blue Light Ventures, enhancing thousands of young people’s lives in the Rodney and Kaipara area. As a result, many young people have faced their fears and gained confidence after Shane has taken them on an outdoor challenge like kayaking, camping, mountain biking and archery. Shane is a real inspiration, and continues to go strong, encouraging, supporting and challenging young people. It would be wonderful if his 25-year milestone was acknowledged.

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.

”

Cafe, Gifts, Chocolaterie Ph 422 2677 6 Mill Lane, Warkworth

Four clinics proudly servicing the Mid-North

Maungaturoto

Mangawhai

Waipu

Ruawai

09 431 8318 09 432 0693

09 431 4535 09 439 2506

pport u S r u o Y ll A r o F s k Than y rr e M a ll a u o y g n i h and Wis r a e Y w e N y pp a H , s a Christm and safe travels!

NORTHLAND'S

Christmas Gift Gurus DIAMONDS

| GIFTS | WATCHES | FASHION

ALL NEW

Discover the perfect gift from our range of contemporary jewellery by talented local & international designers. In-store and online.

Website

www.fishersjewellers.co.nz

KERIKERI 70 Kerikeri Rd

WHANGĀREI 6 Cameron St

WARKWORTH 12 Queen St

PHONE 0800 22 22 81

09 425 0441 27-35 QUEEN STREET, WARKWORTH WHERE IT'S ALL ABOUT YOU

Student Cuts Salon hours: Tues, Wed & Fri 9-5pm; Thurs 9-7pm; Sat 9am-2pm School Boys (College) $25 Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

School Girls (College) $30 Primary School $20

24 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Books

NZ Ltd

ARCHITECTURE INTERIORS

Tracey Lawton

MASTER PLANNING URBAN DESIGN SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

The Sentinel (Jack Reacher 25)

pacificenvironments.co.nz 09 425 9200

By Lee and Andrew Child Penguin Random House, rrp $37.00

Matakana Country Park Jewellers Your local specialists in custom made jewellery

Another brilliant Jack Reacher novel, but this time Lee Child collaborates with brother Andrew. Jack Reacher gets off a bus in Nashville looking for food, somewhere to spend a night, and hopefully some good country music. Naturally, he finds himself embroiled in a saga involving a band and their employer. However, this is just the appetizer. The main story unfolds after Jack gets a lift from an insurance agent heading from Nashville to a small town where the town’s computers have all been hacked. I thought the story was well-paced and the few twists and turns kept me hooked throughout. Excellent Christmas holiday reading, and Jack Reacher fans should be happy.

Wild At Heart

By Miriam Lancewood, Allen & Unwin, rrp $36.99

021 336 723 mike@michaeljohnjewellery.com

021 311 272 john@johncrockett.co.nz

This is the sequel to the very popular Woman In The Wilderness. I haven’t read the first book, but that did not stop me from thoroughly enjoying Wild At Heart.

Miriam grew up in the Netherlands, but moved to New Zealand after meeting her future Kiwi husband in India.

They have lived in the New Zealand bush for over seven years, but this book follows their travels in Europe.

We follow their trail as they walk through France, Switzerland, Slovenia, Bulgaria and head to Turkey.

They camp in the forests and eat what they find along the way. They then fly to Australia for a book event and take up a stranger’s offer to spend some time with like-minded people in Western Australia before exploring the desert.

It’s a fascinating read, and if there was an apocalypse, I would go and live in the bush with Miriam. She’s inspirational and a survivor.

SHORT n

Sweet CUTTING BAR Mens, Ladies, Kids & Seniors Cuts

We wish all our patrons a Merry Christmas & prosperous New Year We are closed from 25 December 2020 and reopen 11 January 2021

021 425 969 | 60 Queen Street, Warkworth

Manicure & Pedicure | Acrylic Nails | SNS Nails | Waxing and Spray Tanning | Gift Vouchers For bookings call 09 425 7259 or walk in anytime 2 Baxter Street Warkworth | www.lotusnail.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 25

Private road sealing hits hurdle An innovative idea to jump Rodney’s road sealing queue has proved too costly to pursue.

Earlier this year, landowners in Wright Road/Quiet Rise in Matakana and Anderson Road/Westminster Glen in Warkworth approached Rodney Councillor Greg Sayers to ask how much it would cost to seal sections of these roads via their own targeted rate.

None of the roads are on Auckland Transport’s priority list to be sealed for more than a decade – Anderson Road is ranked 36 and Wright Road is 154th.

Cr Sayers says the idea of a group of residents privately funding their sealing projects had not been raised before.

A questionnaire was circulated to ascertain what sort of support there might be for the targeted rate.

About 80 per cent of landowners from Anderson Road/Westminster Glen signed a letter supporting a rate to seal 730 metres.

In Wright Road/Quiet Rise support was even more enthusiastic, with 90 per cent of residents supporting a targeted rate to seal 1200 metres of road.

Cr Sayers asked Auckland Transport (AT) to cost the work on the residents’ behalf.

But the costs that came back changed people’s points of view.

They were told it would cost every property owner in Anderson Road/ Westminster Glen $955 annually for 20 to 30 years to seal 730m, while Wright Road/Quiet Rise property owners would face a hefty $1400 annually for 20 to 30 years to seal 1200m.

“When AT presented these figures, the reaction from landowners in both areas was the same,” Cr Sayers says.

“Support for the targeted rate fell to just over 50 per cent.

“Auckland Council subsequently declined introducing the targeted rate due to the low level of acceptance.

Cr Sayers says the targeted rate option will remain available to the community to reconsider at any time in the future.

However, Council would need the support of more than 90 per cent of all property owners before it would instruct AT to seal the road.

“People are already paying their general rates and their roads should be being sealed from those payments.

“The Rodney Local Board collects more than $40 million per 10-year period by already charging ratepayers an additional targeted rate to address transport needs, of which zero is spent on roading or road sealing. This ignores public feedback from rural ratepayers, who pay $20 million of that money and who want the money spent on road sealing,” he says.

“It was astute for the landowners to seek the costings but it’s far too expensive to seal roads privately, even if the cost is shared and paid off over many years.”

Cr Sayers is calling on the Mayor to spend at least $12.5 million annually on road sealing in Rodney, every year for the next 10 years. Currently, the Mayor’s budget allocation is $1 million a year.

A revised 10-year budget will be released for public feedback in February.

Standards were high at the show, despite difficult growing conditions.

Flowers blossom at Warkworth show Despite a challenging year, Warkworth Garden Club pushed ahead with its annual Rose and Flower Show in the Warkworth Town Hall last month.

Organiser Annette Sharp said entries were a little down on the previous year but were of a high standard, despite gardeners having to contend with heavy

rain and strong winds during the growing season. “It was good to see all the new exhibitors, and the local gardens entered were a credit to their owners,” she said.

Warkworth Garden Club will host its 100th Rose and Flower Show next year and is looking forward to making it special.

Prize winners: Campbell DÁrcy Cup - most points Section A winner, Di Jensen; Flora Reilly Cup - most points Section B winner, Lynne Crump; Candlesticks - most points Section C winner, Sheryl Thompson; Helen and Henry Phibbs Trophy - most points Section D winner, Gloria Wilmot; Cruickshank Cup - 1 rose judged on merit Section B winner, Maria

Schollum; Warkworth Garden Club Cup - most fragrant rose winner, Lyn Wade; Sesquicentennial Cup - Best in the Show winner, Gloria Wilmot; Grange Trophy - Best Local Garden, Jim Letcher; Hamilton Trophy - Best Warkworth/Matakana garden as seen by judges from the street. Winner, 27 Motiti Street, J & G Christie.

Got a vision for a beautiful tiny space, but don’t know where to start?

At Tiny Living we’re passionate about creating fully equipped tiny homes and versatile small spaces that are custom designed to suit your needs. Our experienced and versatile team can work with you to design and build a unit that ticks all your boxes. Quality craftsmanship with decades of experience based on the Matakana coast.

Image courtesy of our preferred design partner Tiny Easy

Tiny Homes - office spaces - cabins - chick shacks - man caves - on/off grid

021 422 651 | hello@tinyliving.co.nz | www.tinyliving.co.nz | Insta: @tinyliving.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

localbusiness

26 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020 INTR ODUCING n

Snap Fitness

Nicole Margolius, Greg Smith and Katrina Barrack

HOME SOLUTIONS CONSULTING & INSTALLATION

Business partners Nicole Margolius, Greg Smith and Katrina Barrack come from diverse backgrounds in the consumer goods, finance and contracting worlds, but all have developed a passion for fitness in recent years.

“Getting physically fit brought a whole new dynamic to my life and my business partners’ lives,” Nicole says. In addition to physical benefits, fitness has given each of them better emotional health, greater confidence and a willingness to try new things.

That shared enthusiasm has prompted the trio to set up a Snap Fitness gym in Warkworth.

The new gym will be located in the building formerly occupied by the Waitemata District Health Board in Alnwick Street and is due to open in late February.

Nicole says one of the benefits of being part of the Snap franchise is that in addition to Warkworth, members have access to more than 50 Snap gyms in New Zealand, and more internationally. Moreover, members

can access those gyms 24/7.

“If you have to travel into the city or work odd hours, a Snap gym remains accessible to you,” she says.

Once inside, users will find the latest TechnoGym fitness equipment and wearable Myzone technology, which allows gym users and staff to monitor heart rates and calories burned to ensure the most effective workouts.

Nicole says the gym will also have a “functional fitness” space that concentrates on basic movements the body uses every day. She says by developing our functional fitness we can avoid problems performing simple tasks in later life – such as bending down to pick something up.

Staff will be on hand during the day to guide members and provide both group classes and customised training programmes. Nicole says having seen the transformation fitness has made in their own lives, the partners are eager to share that experience with others.

“It’s a passion of ours to improve our members’ quality of life,” she says.

Get your place ready for summer!

We install:

TV Satellite Audio Systems Multi-Room Setup Automation Data / Wifi TV Mounting FM Aerial

021 247 8324 | Jordan@hitech.nz

warkworth@snapfitness.com

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

TRUNDLER B localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 27

BEST BED DEALS BEST BED DEALS BEST BED 6 BEST BED DEALS DEALS

Storm warning

By Jim Flewitt, Warkworth Community Response Group

It seems that almost daily we are advised through the news media of weatherrelated disasters occurring with what seems increasing frequency. They have included drought-linked bush fires, hurricanes, tornados, and floods – often recorded as larger and more powerful than anything measured before.

The recent floods in Napier, Wellington, Taranaki and Westland, which resulted in enormous environmental pollution when an old rubbish tip was washed into the Fox River, remind us that Mother Nature doesn’t discriminate where severe events are delivered.

Learnings from previous experiences play a large part in establishing response plans and understanding how events might develop. Napier received 242mm of rain in just 24 hours, and it should be acknowledged that as a one in 250 year event local planners may not have designed the storm water system to cope.

In Mahurangi, we are just as likely to receive a heavy rain event as most other places, which means planning for those high volumes needs to be front of mind at the early stages of our regional development.

As homeowners and occupiers, there are some basic things we can do to help reduce possible damage from flooding: • Ensure that gutters and downpipes are sound and kept clear and free flowing.

• Ensure ground level drains are kept free of debris.

• Identify places where water might pool and try to ensure adequate drainage.

• Report blocked or obscured street drains to the council. Clear them yourself if possible.

• Chat with your neighbours about how you would manage in a major storm.

• Visit the Auckland Council website “Auckland’s Hazard Viewer” to check out flood data and other risk issues.

As the recent floods here in New Zealand have demonstrated, when severe weather events occur, existing infrastructure and resources can soon be overwhelmed or rendered useless. For example, it’s no use trying to use a car when the road has become a river, or trying to use pumps when there is no electrical power to drive them.

No NoPressure Pressure||Friendly FriendlyService Service||Open Open77Days Days No NoPressure Pressure||Friendly FriendlyService Service||Open Open77Days Days No NoPressure Pressure||Friendly FriendlyService Service||Open Open 7 7 Days Days SIERRA POCKET S FANTASTIC FANTASTIC BEDS BEDSFANTASTIC FANTASTIC PRICE’S PRICE’S No NoPressure Pressure ||Friendly Friendly Service Service||Open Open 7 7 Days SIERRA Days POCKET S

SUMMIT SUMMIT PILLOW PILLOW TOP, KING KING SINGLE SINGLE MATTRESS ANDS YOU YOU WON’T WON’TTOP, BUY BUYBETTER BETTER SIERRA POCKET SUMMIT SUMMIT PILLOW PILLOW TOP, TOP, KING KING SINGLE SINGLE MATTRESS ANDS SIERRA POCKET TRUNDLER TRUNDLER BED SUMMIT SUMMIT PILLOW PILLOW TOP, TOP,BED KING KING SINGLE SINGLE MATTRESS AND TRUNDLER TRUNDLER BED BED SINGLE $699 SUMMIT SUMMIT PILLOW PILLOW TOP, TOP, KING KING SINGLE SINGLE MATTRESS AND SINGLE $699 TRUNDLER TRUNDLER BED BEDSUMMIT JUST JUST $999 $999 TRUNDLER TRUNDLER BED BED SINGLE $699 PILLOW TOP KING SINGLE $799 JUST JUST $999 $999 KING SINGLE $799 SINGLE $699 JUST JUST $999 $999 SIZE KINGQUEEN SINGLE $799 DOUBLE $949 JUST JUST $999 $999 DOUBLE $949 KING SINGLE $799 MATTRESS DOUBLE $949 QUEEN $999 QUEEN $999 DOUBLE $949 AND BASE QUEEN $999 KING $1399 KING $1399 QUEEN $999 KING $1399 JUST $699 year warranty KING5$1399

5 year warranty 5 year warranty AF10 5 yearQUEEN warrantyADJUST SIERRA SIERRA POCKET POCKET SPRUNG SPRUNG

AF10 QUEEN ADJUST SIERRA SIERRA POCKET POCKETWITH SPRUNG SPRUNG MEMORY FOAM M AF10 QUEEN ADJUST MATTRESS MATTRESS AND AND BASE BASE SIERRA SIERRA POCKET POCKET SPRUNG SPRUNG WITH MEMORY FOAM M MATTRESS MATTRESS AND AND BASE BASE AF10 QUEEN ADJUST SIERRA SIERRA POCKET POCKETWITH SPRUNG SPRUNG MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS MATTRESS AND AND BASE BASE DOM SINGLE SINGLE$699 $699 WITH MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS MATTRESS AND AND BASE BASE DOM SINGLE SINGLE$699 $699 DO FRO SINGLE SINGLE $699 $699 KING KING SINGLE SINGLE $799 $799 DO FRO KING KING SINGLE SINGLE $799 $799 SINGLE SINGLE $699 $699 FRO KING KING SINGLE SINGLE $799 $799 DOUBLE DOUBLE$949 $949 DOUBLE DOUBLE $949 $949 FRO KING KINGSINGLE SINGLE $799 $799 DOUBLE DOUBLE $949 $949 QUEEN QUEEN $999 $999 QUEEN QUEEN $999 $999 DOUBLE DOUBLE $949 $949 QUEEN QUEEN $999 $999 KING KING$1399 $1399 KING KING $1399 $1399 QUEEN QUEEN $999 $999 KING KING$1399 $1399 $1299 55$1399 year yearwarranty warranty KING KING $1399 other sizes available 15

BEST BED DEALS | WARKWORTH

There are numerous Community Response Groups throughout Rodney which liaise with emergency services to assist during civil emergencies. To join a local group, contact Anne Dickson, annedickson@xtra.co.nz

55year yearwarranty warranty other sizes available 15 55year yearwarranty warranty other sizes available 15 AF10 AF10 QUEEN ADJUSTABLE BED 55year yearQUEEN warranty warranty NO PRESSURE | FRIENDLY SERVICE OPEN 7ADJUSTABLE DAYS other sizes available 15 a:BED 8 Mill Lane, Wa AF10 AF10|QUEEN QUEEN ADJUSTABLE ADJUSTABLE BED BED

STOCK CLEARANCE MATTRESS AND BASE

a:BED 8 Mill Lane, Wa WITH WITH MEMORY MEMORY FOAM FOAM MATTRESSES MATTRESSES AF10 AF10 QUEEN QUEEN ADJUSTABLE ADJUSTABLE BED p: 09 422Wa 3 WITH WITH MEMORY MEMORY FOAM FOAM MATTRESSES MATTRESSES a:BED 8 Mill Lane, AF10 AF10 QUEEN QUEEN ADJUSTABLE ADJUSTABLE BED p: 09 422Wa 3 a: 8 Mill Lane, WITH WITH MEMORY MEMORY FOAM FOAM MATTRESSES MATTRESSES SUMMIT PILLOW TOP, KING SINGLE e:OR warkworth@wisp DOUBLE DOUBLE OR QUEEN QUEEN p: 09 422 3 WITH WITH MEMORY MEMORY FOAM FOAM MATTRESSES MATTRESSES e:OR warkworth@wisp DOUBLE DOUBLE OR QUEEN QUEEN p: 09 422 3 TRUNDLER BED e:OR warkworth@wisp DOUBLE DOUBLE OR QUEEN QUEEN FROM FROM$2999 $2999 e: warkworth@wisp DOUBLE DOUBLE OR OR QUEEN QUEEN FROM FROM$2999 $2999

$2999 $2999 $999 $2999 $2999

FROM FROM ONLY FROM FROM

VIENNA FIRM

MATTRESS AND BASE

SINGLE was $999 NOW $599 SINGLE KING SINGLE was $1199 KING$699 SINGLE SUPER KING NOW BED SET DOUBLE DOUBLEwas $1599 NOW $1099 ONLY QUEENwas $1799 QUEEN NOW KING$1099 KING was $2299 POCKET SPRUNG SUPER KING NOW $1199 POCKET SPRUNG WITH Ray White Matakana | Omaha WITH EXTRA FIRM. was $2599 SUPER KING Black Group Realty Licensed (REAA 2008) 10 WARRANTY 10 YEAR YEAR WARRANTY NOW $1299 Sue Hatton 0272 799 696 | sue.hatton@raywhite.com

$599 $699 $1099 $1099 $1199 $1299

$1299

www.rwmatakana.co.nz | 44 Matakana Valley Road, Rodney 1151

VIENNA MEDIUM MATTRESS AND BASE

15 15year yearwarranty warranty 15 15year yearwarranty warranty 15 15year yearwarranty warranty 15 15year yearwarranty warranty a: a: 88 Mill Mill Lane, Lane, Warkworth Warkworth

other othersizes sizesavailable available other othersizes sizesavailable available other othersizes sizesavailable available other othersizes sizesavailable available

a: a: 88 Mill Mill Lane, Lane, Warkworth Warkworth SIERRA POCKET SPRUNG p: p: 09 09 422 422 3120 3120 a: a: 88 Mill Mill Lane, Lane, Warkworth Warkworth p: p: 09 09 422 422 3120 3120 BASE a: a:MATTRESS 88 Mill Mill Lane, Lane,AND Warkworth Warkworth e: e: warkworth@wispasleep.com warkworth@wispasleep.com p: p: 09 09 422 422 3120 3120 e: e: warkworth@wispasleep.com warkworth@wispasleep.com p: p: 09 09 422 422 3120 3120 e: e: warkworth@wispasleep.com warkworth@wispasleep.com e: e:$699 warkworth@wispasleep.com warkworth@wispasleep.com SINGLE KING SINGLE $799 DOUBLE $949

$999

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

QUEEN

health&family

28 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

health&family

LIVING WELL

Record-breaking tunnel to dispose of Warkworth wastewater Construction workers look set to break a world record in Mahurangi after Watercare unveiled revised plans for dealing with Warkworth’s wastewater.

The plans call for the boring of an underground tunnel that will carry wastewater from a pump station at Lucy Moore Park to a new wastewater treatment plant at Snells Beach.

Previously, Watercare had intended dig an open trench along Sandspit Road and lay the pipe in the trench. They had secured all the necessary consents to achieve that end.

But that plan was abandoned when it emerged that Sandspit Road – a vital link to the Mahurangi East peninsula – would need to be reduced to one-lane traffic for a period up to two years.

Watercare property manager Peter Nicoll told a Warkworth Area Liaison Group meeting earlier this month that that option “was not going to fly”.

Instead, Watercare will abandon using a trench along Sandspit Road and will seek a resource consent to drill a tunnel using a more direct route to Snells Beach.

Once completed, the tunnel will be just over 4km long – a world record for a single drive by a microtunnel boring machine.

As it happens, Mahurangi already holds the world record for another wastewater tunnel that runs from private farmland in Algies Bay to reach the ocean, just south of Martins Bay. That tunnel is 2021 metres long and was completed in August this year.

It will form part of the same wastewater system as the proposed Warkworth to Snells Beach tunnel.

The Algies Bay tunnel was constructed by Watercare contractor McConnell Dowell, which has been

Pump station Mahurangi River crossing

Pump station Pump station

Snells’ treatment plant

The proposed wastewater pipeline from Warkworth

developing expertise in the tunnelling techniques required, giving Watercare confidence that it can also construct the Warkworth to Snells Beach tunnel.

Mr Nicoll says the proposed tunnel will run 30 or 40 metres (about 10 to 15 storeys) below existing properties, so is unlikely to trouble property owners.

The depth of the pipe also means that it can’t be accidentally damaged by excavators or post-hole diggers operating at ground level.

Mr Nicoll suggested that the tunnelling technique was the way of the future.

“As more infrastructure is required for more of the Auckland region, we can’t continue to dig up people’s backyards the whole time. This is an elegant way to

achieve the same result with far less impact,” he said.

The tunnel project is part of a multi-phase programme to upgrade the handling of wastewater in Warkworth and Snells Beach to cope with expected rapid population growth.

The programme includes the replacement of the wastewater treatment plant at Snells Beach, decommissioning of the treatment plant in Warkworth, replacement of a pump station at Lucy Moore Park, and the construction of an outfall pipe taking treated wastewater to the ocean.

The outfall pipe, running along Mahurangi East Road, is due to be completed by Christmas. Timing of other works is subject to securing consents and financial constraints.

RODNEY SURGICAL YOUR LOCAL HO SPITAL

Locals are realising they can have day surgery done by Auckland’s top surgeons right here in Warkworth. No traffic or parking hassles, no need to spend hours in waiting rooms,and we provide the very best medical care.

Ask your GP if you can have it done locally or call Rodney Surgical direct.

Dulcie Baker Wellsford resident

John Beker Snells Beach resident

Dave Ryan Snells Beach resident

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

We are closed from Friday 5pm 18th December until 8am Tuesday 12th January 2021.

We look forward to seeing you in 2021

MODERN•PROFESSIONAL•LOCAL

www.rodneysurgicalcentre.co.nz 09 425 1190

Joan Scandrett Warkworth resident

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Graham McRae Wellsford resident

Sue Monk Takatu resident

health&family

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 29

Warkworth woman proposes new service for homeless Concerns about the growing number of homeless people in the Warkworth area has prompted a local woman to take action.

Jillene Yansen wants to set up a venue where the homeless, anybody going through a tough time, or even just seeking company can come and find support.

She anticipates people could come one day a week and enjoy a cooked meal, get a shower and perhaps charge up their mobile phone and wash their clothes if necessary.

Jillene says some who are struggling are shy about it, and users of the service would have the option of texting in their order for a meal, which they could take away with them if they preferred.

She says homelessness is more common than many people realise and she has spoken to a number of people sleeping rough on local beaches, down by the Mahurangi River, or wandering along roadsides.

Outside the area, she’s noticed hungry people hanging around food courts in shopping malls, waiting for people to finish their meals so they can jump in and devour any scraps.

Already the Mahurangi Presbyterian Church has offered a venue for the venture, unless a more appropriate one becomes available, and Jilliene has been promised donations of food

Cataract Specialist Warkworth Cataract Specialist Warkworth Cataract Specialist

Jillene Yansen

from one local supermarket and is in the process of approaching others.

Jillene is retired, but formerly worked as a social worker for geriatrics. She says often when one partner dies, the other does not know how to cook and the service she proposes could be a godsend for them.

Jillene is looking for volunteers and supporters to help her get the project off the ground, including people to prepare food and musicians who could entertain while people eat.

As far as she is aware, there is no similar service in the Warkworth or Snells Beach area.

She has not got a name for the new service yet, but is toying with the idea of “Home from Home” or “Grandma’s Kitchen”.

To offer your support, email Jillene: jilleneyansen1954@gmail.com.

Dr Mark Donaldson Dr Mark Donaldson FRANZCO FRANZCO

Dr Donaldson has expertly performed hundreds Friendly, personalised eye care with Doctor Dr Donaldson has expertly performed hundreds of small incision cataract operations at the Donaldson at Rodney Centre. of small incision cataractSurgical operations at the Rodney Surgical Centre in Warkworth since the

Rodney Surgical Centre in Warkworth since the Eye consultations, glaucoma management RSC opened in 2010. Phone today to make an RSC opened 2010. Phone today to make an and in surgery in Warkworth. appointment to see Dr Donaldson at his regular appointment to see Dr Donaldson at his regular DoctorsMedical on 09 520 9689 clinicsPhone at the Eye Warkworth Centre. clinics at the Medical Centre. to Warkworth make an appointment.

77 Morrison Drive, Warkworth

web web

www.eyedoctors.co.nz www.eyedoctors.co.nz

call call

(09) 520 9689 (09) 520 9689

EYE 0776 EYE 0776

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME Doctors • Kate Baddock • Stephen Barker • Bruce Sutherland • Amy Mcbeth • Clinton Anderson • Andrew Duffin • Jing He • Minja Bojic • Dekshna Poneswari • Simon Tricker

WARKWORTH

Our Surgery at 11 Alnwick Street, Warkworth

Medical Centre

SNELLS BEACH

Our new clinic at Dalton Road, Snells Beach

11 Alnwick Street Warkworth Phone: 09 425 1199

WE PROVIDE

Warkworth

Snells Beach Medical Centre Dalton Road Snells Beach Phone: 09 425 5055

• Wide range of doctor and nurse led services including accident and medical services, immunisation, minor surgery, vasectomies, immigration, dive and insurance medicals.

• Wide range of visiting specialists.

• Warkworth is open 8am-7pm Mon, Wed, Thurs, 8am-5pm Tues, Fri and 8am-12 noon Sat. • Snells Beach is open 8am-5pm Monday - Friday.

• Low Cost access for enrolled patients under 14 free, young people $13, adults $19.50 (ACC costs differ).

• Pharmacy, Labtest, Physio on site.

• Free Covid-19 testing available.

PHONE 24HRS Warkworth 09 425 1199 or Snells Beach 09 425 5055

for direct connection to the surgery or our after hours service.

Contact us • ad mi n @ k awau b ay h eal t h .co.n z • w w w.k awaubayhe a lth.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

health&family

30 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

Thank you to everyone who supported us in 2020 and got us through a tough year.

We really appreciate your loyalty and business.

We will be closed for a break from the 22nd of December, and back to it on the 11th of January.

Have a great Christmas and stay safe. from Sarah, Donna and Kathryn.

Phone: 09 425 7002 Email: admin@mahurangivision.co.nz Visit: 23 Neville Street, Warkworth

Owned by

Sarah Denny, Optometrist

GULL MATAKANA

GULL SNELLS BEACH

Caring for the locals who support us

Rotary

sponsors of

and Lions

Warkworth Food Rescue Wishing all our recipients and volunteers a wonderful, joyful and happy Christmas

Surgeon, Nathan Atkinson.

Centre installs endoscope Patients will now be able to have endoscopy procedures done locally thanks to new equipment at the Rodney Surgical Centre.

The centre has installed an endoscope that allows surgeons to see inside a patient’s body using a high-resolution camera.

It is the first of its kind in New Zealand and has imaging modes that use different wavelengths of light to provide a clear image of blood vessel and cell structure patterns.

Surgeon Nathan Atkinson says it allows him to pick up irregularities much more easily and be more confident in his diagnosis.

He says that the camera can be used to observe the lining of the oesophagus, as well as the stomach and colon, to search for ulcers, polyps or cancers.

“When you’re searching a metre-anda-half of colon it helps to be able to see

with more clarity,” he says.

Being able to have a colonoscopy locally is especially preferable for patients, as they are required to limit their eating for three days and not eat at all for 24 hours.

They are also given a laxative medicine to flush the colon, which can make long distance travel through Auckland an unnerving experience.

Rodney Surgical chief executive Marianne Davidson says the new endoscopy equipment gives northern patients options.

Rodney Surgical has also been awarded a Waitemata District Health Board (WDHB) contract, which means it can accept local patients on the public waitlist for endoscopy procedures.

The contract has been awarded until next June and Ms Davidson hopes the relationship with the WDHB will continue to grow.

L O C A L LY OW N E D, L O C A L LY O P E R AT E D

Snells Beach Pharmacy N E X T T O T H E F I R E S TAT ION

SURPLUS FRUIT & VEGE Any surplus vegetables and fruit please donate to Food Rescue.

Drop-off stations are located at: • Opportunity Shop, Baxter Street (next to Laundromat) • Gull Service Station, Matakana WANTED ANY SURPLUS STOCK Food Rescue welcomes any surplus, unwanted farm stock that might be suitable for slaughter and processing for charity.

We will pay all slaughtering and processing costs.

If you are interested in donating food: Call 027 4776 519 or email warkworthfoodrescue@gmail.com

Thanks to our locals supporting us, we are able to support our local community

GULL MATAKANA 09 422 7105

GULL SNELLS BEACH 09 425 4092

Lead pharmacists Anna Miller and Kevan McDonald of Snells Beach Pharmacy

Ask about our

Free Delivery Service

332 Mahurangi East Rd, Snells Beach Monday to Friday / 8.30am - 5.30pm

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

09 425 5821

Saturday / 9am - 12.30pm

health&family

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 31

Tui Na & Chinese Massage Acupuncture Traditional Chinese Medicine

Homebuilders Madhurii Ball

A TCM Clinic @ Warkworth Andy 0220 789 514 andyinkiwi@gmail.com Riverside Arcade, 62-64 Queens Street, Warkworth

Christmas Eve Christmas Eve Thurs, Dec 24 Christmas Day

Warkworth Medical Centre Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-5pm 8am-5pm 8am-5pm 8am-5pm CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED 8am-12.30pm

Boxing Day December 27 Sat, Dec 26

Warkworth Medical Centre Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Surgery Kowhai

8am-Noon 8am-8pm CLOSED 8am-5pm

December 28 Sunday, December 27 December 29

Warkworth Medical Centre Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-5pm CLOSED 8am-5pm CLOSED 8am-12.30pm CLOSED 8am-Noon CLOSED 8am-12.30pm CLOSED

Tuesday, New Years Eve December 29

Warkworth Medical Medical Centre Centre Warkworth Kowhai Surgery Surgery Kowhai

8am-5pm 8am-8pm 8am-5pm 8am-5pm

New Years Day Wednesday, December 30 January 2

Warkworth Medical Centre Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-12.30pm 8am-7pm CLOSED 8am-5pm 8am-12.30pm CLOSED 8am-7pm 8am-5pm 8am-8pm 8am-5pm

New Years January 4 Day Fri, Jan 1

Warkworth Medical Medical Centre Centre Warkworth Kowhai Surgery Surgery Kowhai

8am-Noon 8am-5pm CLOSED 8am-5pm

January 5 Saturday, January 2 January 6

Warkworth Medical Centre Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

CLOSED CLOSED 8am-12.30pm 8am-Noon CLOSED 8am-12.30pm CLOSED CLOSED 8am-8pm 8am-5pm

Warkworth Medical Medical Centre Centre Warkworth Kowhai Surgery Surgery Kowhai

8am-Noon 8am-5pm CLOSED 8am-8pm

Christmas Day Fri, Dec 25 26 December

11 St 11Alnwick Alnwick St Warkworth Warkworth

(09) 1199 (09) 425 425 1199 Emergency Medical Medical Emergency Services are are available Services available every day except Christmas everyday except day and Sunday 29th Christmas Day. December 2020.

For direct connection Telephone either to the duty or Medical Centreclinic for direct the after hours Triage connection to your clinic or Service phone .... after hours nurse.

SURGERY LTD

10 St 10Percy Percy St Warkworth Warkworth

(09) (09)425 425 7358 7358

Monday, December December 28 30

Thursday, December January 3 31

Sunday, January January 3 7 Monday, January 8 January 4

Normal Surgery Monday January Normal SurgeryHours Hoursresume resume Tuesday January 5th 7th

Snells Snells Beach Beach Medical Medical Centre Centre is is open open as as usual usual 8am 8am -- 5pm 5pm EXCEPT on Public Holidays, Saturdays and EXCEPT on Public Holidays, Saturdays and Sundays Sundays Visit us at 6 Morpeth St, Warkworth N

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

AL

NW

RP

YS T

MO

ET

H

TA YO

TO

ICK

RC

LN

6 Morpeth St, Warkworth | 09 425 8476 | www.warkworthdental.co.nz

MILL

Open: 8am to 5pm Monday to Thursday, 8am to 4pm Friday.

CO UN

With 8 dentists and 2 Oral Health Therapists we have the experience and expertise to cater ALL aspects of Dentistry

ST

PE

“Teeth for Life”

We go the extra mile to put a smile on your dial

Kowhai Surgery Kowhai Surgery

TD OW

Read more columns online at localmatters.co.nz

WarkworthMedical Medical Centre Warkworth Centre

T

”

Warkworth Area Medical Centre Hours Christmas / New Year 2020/21 2012/13

LL ES

“

ACC Provider

VI

Our family centre has a special focus on the needs of children and promotes the benefits of a long childhood, as free as possible from anxiety. And, if worry or troubles do come along, there will be supports available – free to access locally at Homebuilders.

Besides a long and happy childhood protected from “adult” concerns, we hold a wider belief in the importance of free access to a precious resource of natural beauty, to enhance general community wellbeing. Anyone struggling to regulate mood or emotion, especially those with An emphasis on fears and uncertainties, will be more enabled to cope by spending time in nature. An emphasis on the human need to the human need to reset our moods and learn from reset our moods and patterns and intelligence in nature could be a real gift this Christmas. In some countries doctors now learn from patterns and intelligence prescribe forest walks and sunshine! in nature could The more education and understanding our district planners hold about the ways we can creatively be a real gift this provide good housing, while protecting a naturally Christmas. fun and explorative world, the better. With the rise of new subdivisions, and the reorganisation of public spaces, my best hope is for old trees, natural waterways or open spaces to feature large in planners’ minds. Now more than ever, we need to retain and promote the vital concepts of restoration and regeneration.

Our area is set to have unprecedented growth. The traffic is already congested, and we look forward to improved roads and planning to accommodate the boom. Let’s also see the intrinsic value of our natural world as a vital resource for the current and coming generations to reset their equilibrium; to restore physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual balance outside of home, work or school.

Why? Because particularly during this Covid-affected year, we have over-relied on our communication with others via technology and necessarily so. But it is not healthy for kids when “playing” means getting lost in technology rather than getting lost in their imaginations, or through other means; like safely exploring on a bike, or at the rocky shoreline or discovering the intricacies of a tidal pool.

By getting out and engaging in picnics, swims, rock climbs or walks, and taking time for reflection in nature, we can restore an over-stretched nervous system.

We hope you’ll embrace the fact that all kids need to laugh and play every day and join them doing that this summer.

Finally, after almost a year of change and unexpected events, this month we will be distributing the generous contributions of many kind locals, who give so that families can have the excitement of the unexpected present. Thank you very much on their behalf.

NE

Nature is nurture

CHURCH H ILL

www.homebuildersfs.org

M

OR

WARKWORTH DENTAL HE

XH

AM

ST

PE

TH

ST

ST

32 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

History Jenny Schollum, Puhoi Historical Society www.puhoiheritagemuseum.co.nz

Retail therapy in early Puhoi On Resene Premium Paints, Wood Stains, Primers, Sealers, Wallpaper, Decorating Accessories and Cleaning Products

Come in and see us today at your local Resene ColorShop!

Warkworth: 50 Morrison Dr (09) 422 2150 or shop online shop.resene.co.nz Conditions: Buy Resene Premium Paints, Wood Stains, Primers, Sealers, Wallpaper, Decorating Accessories and Cleaning Products and get the GST value (15% off the full retail price) off at Resene ColorShops and participating resellers. The discount reduction will be calculated on the normal retail price OR if you have a Resene DIY Card you can get the Save the GST value sale discount and an extra 5% off. Excludes WallPrint, decals, Crown, trade and industrial products, PaintWise levy and account sales. Paint offer also available at participating Mitre 10 MEGA, Mitre 10 and Hammer Hardware stores. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Offer ends 2 February 2021.

To shop local in Puhoi in the early 20th century, settlers had a choice of three stores: C. Schischka and Son, Schollum and Titford and Wenzlick and Co. I suspect each resident was staunchly loyal to their regular proprietor. Everything imaginable was available through the stores – hardware, nails, barbed wire, fertilizer and fuel. Paint was mixed there, and a length of muslin measured from the roll could be bought there. Most staples like flour and sugar were bought in bulk, although scales were available to measure out small quantities. The scales had a ready reckoner function, which could calculate the correct cost of the amount purchased.

Each store kept black notebooks which, on one page, detailed produce such as eggs, butter, honey, fruit and vegetables that the settler sold to the shop. This was transported to Auckland on the S.S. Kotiti to be on-sold through The National Trading Co. (set up by John Schischka) or John Schollum & Co. Timber and Produce Merchant. These companies accepted These companies all Puhoi’s produce – firewood, shingles, palings, accepted all Puhoi’s fence posts, gum, wool, and advertised them as “fine Puhoi produce”. produce – firewood, On the facing page of the notebook a record was shingles, palings, kept of items bought from the store. At the end fenceposts, gum, of the month a tally was made. Sometimes the wool, and advertised storekeeper owed the customer money.

The 1924 flood rose to a height well up the walls them as ‘fine Puhoi of the Schollum and Titford store and the building produce’. burnt down in 1939. A mound of earth was created on the site so that the new store, although coming close, has never been flooded.

Until the advent of supermarkets in the early 1970s, locals continued to purchase goods from this store, later known as Schollum Bros. The practice of booking up all purchases for a month continued. Our account was usually around $90.

Archie gave us a bag of lollies when we paid.

Bread was delivered daily from bakeries in Warkworth, wrapped in a strip of newsprint and tied with string, which dropped from a ball hung from the ceiling. Most commodities were still weighed out into quantities required – broken iced animal biscuits were a favourite.

We could telephone Stubbs Butchery in Warkworth with an order and it would be delivered by Listers Mail Service on its return trip to Auckland. If the meat hadn’t been picked up by store closing, it was left in the cool of the library, which was unused at that time.

Les ran the Post Office at the Puhoi General Store, providing all the services of a city office. The store was a place where you could buy almost anything you needed and where people met as they collected their mail. They often stayed to talk and hear stories of earlier days.

Today, as Nick and Jo supply coffee and takeaways there, the meetings and talk continue.

This is Jenny Schollum’s last column. Mahurangi Matters thanks Jenny Schollum for her many contributions.

“

”

Summer is coming - Bo ok your instal this month l and receive our

10% OFF deal

Awnings  Canopies  Carports Outdoor Screens  Shade Sails  Contract Fabrication and Installation  

022 342 4082 | Unit 10, 30 Hudson Road, Warkworth www.shadedesign.co.nz | info@shadedesign.co.nz

A great team you can trust Protecting you investment. Maximising your returns.

For a fresh approach in Property Management, with proven results.

Serving Puhoi to Ruakaka.

Sam 021 1966 391 / Shona 021 539 391 | rentalsitn@bayleys.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

December 2020/January 2021

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 33 Your essential property guide from Dairy Flat to Waipu

WelcomeHome Welcome Home

Barfoot & Thompson | LJ Hooker | MEYER Real Estate | Mike Greer Homes | Ray White | RE/MAX Realty Group | Oaks on Neville

A Local Matters publication. Distribution - 41,200 copies. Advertising enquiries: Mahurangi 09 425 9068 or Hibiscus 09 427 8188 Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

34 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Evolution Realty Ltd Licensed under the REAA 2008

SNELLS beach Mahurangi heights

6 new lots released!

Enquiries over $390,000

With Stage 3 all sold or under contract, we present the release of 6 new sections! Pay just 10% deposit to secure your preferred site and pay the rest when titles are issued, approx May 2021. All sites are upwards of 600 square metres. Affordable sections - welcoming enquiry over $390,000. Rest assured, you’re becoming part of a great community. Selling quickly, enquire now!

viewing strictly by appointment

steffan meyer | 021 055 4346 steffan@meyerrealestate.co.nz

www.meyerrealestate.co.nz

Evolution Realty Ltd Licensed under the REAA 2008

warkworth 28 hauiti drive

whopportunity!

4 2 2 260sqm 1 Situated within walking distance of the local high school, primary school and Warkworth’s Town Centre. This substantial brick and block home would make a forthcoming auction great family home or a solid rental investment for the savvy investor. Potential is a great thing and the downstairs has “turn me into a self-contained flat” written Register your interest viewing strictly by appointment all over it. Scope to grow as your family does! Forthcoming Auction 2021.

steffan meyer | 021 055 4346 steffan@meyerrealestate.co.nz

www.meyerrealestate.co.nz WelcomeHome 34

December 2020/January 2021 Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 35

Evolution Realty Ltd Licensed under the REAA 2008

SNELLS beach 18 Kauri crescent

flat site, fab design!

Just a short stroll from shops, beach walks and schools, this classy, refurbished 70’s abode would make the perfect first home or investment. Renovated to the most exacting standards throughout, with a fresh modern vibe. Sun-soaked, open-plan living area, expansive deck, with fibre cement construction. Tidy, easy-care properties in this popular suburb are always in demand. Act today!

3

1

1

91sqm

1

online auction (unless sold prior) 11am thu 17th december 2020 View: Sunday 12-12.30pm

steffan meyer | 021 055 4346 steffan@meyerrealestate.co.nz

www.meyerrealestate.co.nz

Evolution Realty Ltd Licensed under the REAA 2008

snells Beach 7 carmen terrace

absolutely viewtiful!

3 1 2 190sqm 2 With those stunning views and boasting plenty of potential, interest in this well maintained home is sure to be high. In an exclusive location with beautifully forthcoming auction established gardens and outdoor area. This tidy home features 3 bedrooms, a modern kitchen and bathroom and two versatile living areas including a rumpus Register your interest viewing strictly by appointment room. Going to Auction in the new year, call today for more information!

steffan meyer | 021 055 4346 steffan@meyerrealestate.co.nz

www.meyerrealestate.co.nz 35 WelcomeHome

December 2020/January 2021 Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

36 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Realty Group

www.remax.nz

|

Northern Properties Ltd

Each office independently owned and operated |

Licensed REAA 2008

ADDRESS 11 Neville Street, Warkworth, AUCKLAND 910 OFFICE 09 425 0261

WelcomeHome 36

December 2020/January 2021 Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 37

37 WelcomeHome

December 2020/January 2021 Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

38 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

Set Date of Sale Closes 4:00pm on Wed 16th December sold prior) Set Date of (unless Sale View Closes 4:00pm on Wed 16th Phone for viewing December (unless sold prior) View and inspection times Phone for Viewing Times View ljhooker.co.nz/BMKGUK ljhooker.co.nz/BMKGUK

localmatters.co.nz

Unique Offering - Puhoi

5 Lifestyle Blocks For Sale Unique Offering - Puhoi

Average size one hectare (10,000m2) each.

Lushsize pasture, flat easy building sites with good access and power se Average one hectare (10,000m2) each. boundaries.

New pail fencing too.access and power services to Lushthe pasture, flat easy building sites with good Phone for Viewing Times ljhooker.co.nz/BMKGUK Newfacing pail fencing too. with tranquil bush backdrop. the boundaries.

Sunny north aspect Sunny north facing aspect with tranquil bush backdrop.

4 minutes from the new motorway - off ramp at Puhoi.

4 minutes from the new motorway - off ramp at Puhoi.

Forget the city rat race and become part of this special community s Forget the city rat race and become part of this special community spirit that this historic only 40 minutes North of the Harbour Brid this historic village village has andhas only and 40 minutes North of the Harbour Bridge.

Steven 021 888 Steven Glucina Glucina 021 888 455455 Hooker Ponsonby LJLJHooker Ponsonby

5 Lifestyle Blocks For Sale

Contact Sole Agent 888 455021 888 455 Contact Sole Steven AgentGlucina Steven021 Glucina

PonsonbyEstate Estate Agents LtdLtd Ponsonby Agents Or email: sglucina.ponsonby@ljh.co.nz for info pack.for info pack.

Or email: sglucina.ponsonby@ljh.co.nz Licensed Agent REAA 2008 Licensed Agent REAA 2008 All information contained herein is gathered from sources we consider to be reliable. However, we cannot guarantee or give any warranty about the information provided. Interested parties must solely rely on their own enquiries.

All information contained herein is gathered from sources we consider to be reliable. However, we cannot guarantee or give any warranty about the information provided. Interested parties must solely rely on their own en

WelcomeHome 38

December 2020/January 2021 Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 39

ervices to

spirit that dge.

nquiries.

39 WelcomeHome

December 2020/January 2021 Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

40 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

The BEST decision ever made

DAY N E P O SDAY, THUR

28 Y R A JANU m 10am

3p

Quality designer apartments and relaxing resort facilities, uniquely placed in the centre of beautiful Warkworth town.

Come and see why our residents have chosen this bespoke retirement lifestyle.

FOR MORE INFORMATION call Sylvie on 027 314 5767 or sylvie.borrett@realliving co nz

oaks.reception@realliving.co.nz

2 bedroom apartments from $599,000

The Oaks on Neville, 9 Queen St, Warkworth www.realliving.co.nz/warkworth

3 Bedroom apartments from $990,000

WelcomeHome 40

December 2020/January 2021 Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

puhoiwoodchopping

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 41

puhoiwoodchopping

The annual carnival is New Zealand’s largest woodchopping event.

F E AT URE

The underhand open.

Carnival to pull top domestic choppers out of woodwork Despite a lack of international entrants, the splinters are set to fly at the Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival, with top axeman keen to sink their blades into the competition following a disrupted season.

Puhoi Axemen Club secretary Cassandra Brown said all 45 available spots for the competition on Saturday, January 9, had already been filled by the start of December.

There will be axemen representing each of the major northern woodchopping centres including Whangarei, Waiuku and Hamilton.

An absolute icon in terms of Auckland’s history with 140 years of service under it’s belt, just off SH! 45 mins north of Auckland.

Have your next long sunny pub lunch at the Puhoi.

ENJOY COUNTRY HOTEL HOSPITALITY NEW OUTDOOR BAR WE CATER FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Tytan and Johnson, will also compete.

Cassandra says in addition there will be three young lads from Puhoi who will be participating in their first ever competitive chop event.

Club stalwart John Sanderson says the Puhoi Axemen Club is in good shape with a mix of experienced choppers and up and coming young blood.

It has 15 members and will be represented at each of the seven northern competitive wood chopping events this season.

Big names include the return of last year’s underhand open champion, Jesse Whitehead of Waiuku.

For the first time in some years, West Auckland’s Jason Wynyard will compete at Puhoi.

Wynyard is a fourteen-time world champion winner of the Stihl Timbersport Series.

His last world championship title was won in 2017.

In 2003, he recorded a time of 12.11 seconds to annihilate a log.

Northland legend Jason Semenoff and his two boys,

PUHOI ANNUAL WOOD CHOPPING CARNIVAL 2021 PUB LAWN SATURDAY 9 JAN 9AM-5PM BISTRO OPEN TILL LATE! Shopping at The Stables

OPEN 7 DAYS

SLOW WATER TRADING

Ph 09 422 0812

Local Stalls on the day!

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

puhoiwoodchopping

42 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

Slow Water Trading Post Jordon Thomas

Thomas takes a swing at open

Proud to be a sponsor of the Puhoi Woodchopping SPECIALISING IN AUTHENTIC NATIVE AMERICAN JEWELLERY & CRAFTS

The Stables, Across from the Puhoi Pub Contact Sheryl 021 292 5952 slowwatertradingpost@gmail.com www.slowwatertradingpost.co.nz

Puhoi Axeman Jordon Thomas, 17, is taking aim at the open underhand and standing divisions after having graduated from novice.

Thomas won an open competition in Helensville last season and was performing well until Covid-19 struck.

This season he is pushing even harder, training with chopping champion Jesse Whitehead and entering as many competitions as possible leading up to the Puhoi event.

At the Whangarei A&P show this month, Thomas made it to the final

and placed fourth in the eleven-inch division.

Thomas, and Puhoi teammates Richard Morton, Troy Hopkins and Cam Hastie, also won the team race.

The Whangarei competition used pine blocks, which are harder to chop than Puhoi’s poplars and have greater variance in the wood grain.

Other than the prize money, Thomas says it is the camaraderie of the club and the historical connection to the area that drives him to compete in the sport.

His goal is to make the New Zealand under-21 team.

Plenty to chomp into at the pub

Thank you for all your support over the year.

We wish you all well over the festive season and beyond.

From the team at STIHL SHOP Warkworth

The new owners of the Puhoi Pub Hotel & Stables have been encouraged by the incredible support from community for the annual event, despite the tough year.

Manager Jena Murtagh says she has had no problem gaining sponsorship for the $10,000 prize pool that keeps punters coming to the competition each year.

The pub has built a beer and wine shack on the lawn, behind the Puhoi General Store, to help take the pressure off lines at the bar.

There will be both cash and Eftpos options. Pub food will be on offer as

Stihl Shop Warkworth 32 Whitaker Road

well as the usual sausage sizzle and mussel fritters.

Meanwhile, Puhoi has gained its very own brew of beer just in time for the event.

Former Puhoi resident Scott Rice has worked with brewer Sam White to put together a batch-brewed Bohemian beer made from Czech and New Zealand hops.

The Puhoi Pils has floral, citrusy and spicy flavours on a light malt base with subtle bready and toasty characters.

“You could call it a craft beer, but it’s not too chewy. It is a good session drinking beer,” Scott says.

admin@puhoimotors.co.nz www.puhoimotors.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

puhoiwoodchopping

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 43

PUHOI RIVER CANOE HIRE Proud sponsor

Puhoi Axeman Annual Woodchopping Carnival For the very best freedom River Kayaking Adventure Bookings essential ph 027 284 1672 • www.puhoirivercanoes.co.nz

ENJOY OUR AWARD

WINNING

CHEESES AND ICE CREAMS

Axes are carefully selected on competition day.

What makes a good axe?

OURAWARD AWARD ATENJOY THEOUR PUHOI VALLEY AWARD ENJOY OUR AWARD ENJOY

ENJOY OUR AWARD CAFÉ & STORE SET IN WINNING WINNINGWINNING

You won’t catch a competitive axeman wood because more force is applied with a wood splitting axe from a run- to a smaller area, allowing it to dive of-the-mill hardware store. deeper into the wood.

A typical axeman’s kit might contain But if a block is soft and “peachy”, a 12 specialised axes, and they might long blade edge will cut through it in AND take a box of five axes with them on fewer strokes. competition day.

Most competitive axemen use Tuatahi Puhoi’s Richard Morton says an axes from Masterton. axeman will inspect a log, and ideally How they are made is a trade secret, but take a swing beforeBEAUTIFUL race time, to help Richard understands they have a softTHE THE COUNTRYSIDE him judge which axe to use. steel centre with a hardened outer shell.

An attuned axeman knows that trees On a microscopic level, the axe head from different parts of the country squeezes as it enters the log and chop differently. bounces out slightly after it lands, “A poplar will even vary depending making it easier to remove. on what valley it was grown in, what Instead of a triangular grinded edge, breed it is and whether it has been the blades are contoured to hold a split beaten by the wind.” open.

The density of the rings on a log Richard says one could handle provides some clue as to how thick the a thousand racing axes and each wood might be. would be different, because they are WWW.PUHOIVALLEY.CO.NZ A log from the top of a tree will be handmade.

Find The Puhoi Valley Caf é at 275 Ahuroa Road, Puhoi, Auckland. softer than a log from the base.

Axes cost about $800 each and it An axeman will typically choose from might cost a competitive axeman axes with blades that vary in length from $5000 for a full kit to get started. six to eight inches, from top to bottom. “They are a bit like golf clubs in that A shorter blade is better for thicker way,” he says.

CHEESES

WINNING

AND CREAMS AND AND ICE THECHEESES BEAUTIFUL COUNTRYSIDE ICE CREAMS CHEESES ICE CREAMS

ALONG WITH OUR PUHOI VALLEY AT THE PUHOI VALLEY AT THE PUHOI VALLEYAT THE PUHOI VALLEY MILK AND YOGHURT BRANDS CAFÉ & STORE SET IN CAFÉCAFÉ STORE SET & PUHOI STOREVALLEY SET ININ AT&THE

BEAUTIFUL ANDCOUNTRYSIDE THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRYSIDE CHEESES ICE CREAMS CAFÉ & STORE SET IN Mon to Fri: 9.30am to 4pm | Sat & Sun: 9am to 4.30pm

BEAUTIFUL COUNTRYSIDE ATTHETHE PUHOI VALLEY CAFÉ & STORE SET IN Mon to Fri: 9.30am to 4pm | Sat & Sun: 9am to 4.30pm

THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRYSIDE WWW.PUHOIVALLEY.CO.NZ

WWW.PUHOIVALLEY.CO.NZ

Find The Puhoi Valley Caf é at 275 Ahuroa Road, Puhoi, Auckland.

Find The Puhoi Valley Café at 275 Ahuroa Road, Puhoi, Auckland.

WWW.PUHOIVALLEY.CO.NZ Find The Puhoi Valley Café at 275 Ahuroa Road, Puhoi, Auckland.

TREE REMOVAL Proudly sponsoring the 2020 Puhoi Axeman Carnival

Graham Rauner Owner/Operator WWW.PUHOIVALLEY.CO.NZ Phone 09 425 9639 Mobile 021 525 073 Find The Puhoi Valley Café at 275 Ahuroa Road, Puhoi, Auckland.

Tree felling & Pruning  Chipping & Mulching  Hedge Trims  Driveway Clearing Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

sunnysideup

44 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

sunnysideup

E V E NTS F E AT URE Cash prizes

Award winning cameraman Peter Young will be throwing a critical eye over entries in the Bayley’s ‘This is Us’ photo competition.

Point, shoot, win … summer photo fun

Residents and visitors are being encouraged to get inspired by the Mahurangi region this summer and enter the Bayleys ‘This is Us’ photo and video competition.

The competition will run over four months and each month will have a particular theme.

It will be judged by the multi-award

winning cameraman, director and producer Peter Young, as well as Bayleys in the North owner Mark Macky, Mahurangi Matters owner Jannette Thompson and Matakana Coast Tourism general manager Karen Thompson-Smith.

Peter, who has been living in Point Wells for the past six years, has won

numerous awards and worked on hundreds of national and international documentaries, including the BBC’s Blue Planet and TVNZ’s Explorer, and has been shooting Country Calendar episodes for more than 20 years.

His first feature-length documentary was The Last Ocean, which led to the establishment of a marine protected

M O KO R O O M S + Y R E W E R B S A W M IL L

K E E W A S Y A N OW O P E N 7 D

The Smoko Room is now open 7 days a week from 12pm until late.

We are taking bookings for dinner from 5.30pm - smokoroom@sawmillbrewery.co.nz Sawmill Brewery + Smoko Room | 1004 Leigh Road, Matakana | www.sawmillbrewery.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Prizes will be awarded for monthly winners, as well as an overall prize for the most outstanding photo of the competition. The four themes for photographers are: • Activities (entries close January 31) • Hidden gems (entries close February 28) • Outdoors – nature, landscape and wildlife (entries close March 31) • Food and beverage (entries close April 30).

Monthly winners will each receive $500, while second and third placegetters will receive $300 and $200 respectively. There is no limit on the number of images a person can enter.

Videos must be submitted by February 28 and will also be vying for cash prizes – $600 for first, $400 for second and $300 for third.

To find out more, including terms and conditions, go to: bayleys.co.nz/inthenorth/ thisisusphotocompetition

area in the Ross Sea. This was followed

by The Art of Recovery, chronicling the community spirit of Christchurch after the devastating earthquakes.

Peter is currently travelling the length and breadth of NZ filming a series on the vision to make NZ predator free by 2050.

“There are mixed opinions on whether NZ will make the deadline, but the series also focuses attention on the desperate plight of many of our native species,” Peter says.

It is due for release in May. His tip for photographers is to try to be observational rather than influential on a scene or moment.

“Give yourself time – so many great photos are just about being in the right place at the right time.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing how people capture the essence of ‘place and people’ of the Mahurangi.”

The competition has been organised by a reinvigorated Matakana Coast Tourism. Karen Thompson-Smith says it is about celebrating the people of the region and what they love about their communities.

“We hope that by asking people to focus on things they are familiar with, we will be able to put together a library of diverse images that truly reflects what our region has to offer,” she says.

“We appreciate Bayleys in the North and Mahurangi Matters coming on board to support the competition.”

sunnysideup

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 45

Swamp Run shifts to Sunday Fans of cool classic cars should note that there’s an important date change for one of the area’s most popular events next month, when the Black Swamp Rod Run takes place on Sunday, January 3.

Normally the annual cruise of muscle cars, hot rods and bikes takes place on the first Saturday of the year, but Saturday, January 2, clashes with the annual Mangawhai Gala, so organisers have moved the run to the following day.

Everything else is running as usual, however, starting with registration and public viewing at Mangawhai Domain from 9am, followed by a driver briefing at 10am and the command to “start your engines” at 10.45am.

The cars and bikes will drive up to Waipu, returning via Mangawhai Heads Road to Black Swamp Orchard for a family fun afternoon, with music

by SlickBack Rockabilly between 1pm and 4pm.

The Paparoa Lions food truck will be serving bacon and egg rolls at the domain first thing, and more hot food at the orchard in the afternoon.

There will also be a coffee cart at the morning muster.

The Black Swamp Rod Run is open to all classic car, hot rod and bike enthusiasts, and all makes and models are welcome. Entry costs $20 per car and only registered run entrants can attend the family fun day at Black Swamp Orchard.

All are welcome to view the cars at Mangawhai Domain before the run and entry is free, though a gold coin donation for Otamatea High School is encouraged. The event is cash only – there will be no Eftpos available.

Info: Sandra on 0275 310 788

New gallery space for Wellsford art The OWL Hub in Wellsford has officially reopened as a space for local artists to display their works.

Wood carver Paul McRae has worked hard to bring the project together after being shoulder-tapped by OWL committee member Nancy Malloy. He says the hub will feature the work of five carvers as well as painters, photographers, ceramicists and metal workers.

Auckland Council has given the

committee a three-month trial for the project. Ten per cent of proceeds from art sales will go to a community fund, administered by Coast to Coast Healthcare.

Paul hopes that in the New Year, the group of artists will be able to offer workshops for schools. He says it is a great time to be opening the new space, as artists have been busy producing works over successive lockdowns.

Major sponsor of the Great Summer Art Exhibition

Great Summer Art Exhibition MAHURANGI EAST HALL Hamatana Rd, Snells Beach (next to library) 31st December - 2nd January 10am-4pm Admission by donation

Preview Evening open to public Wednesday 30 December, 7pm, $10 per person Tickets available at the door or collect from Bayleys Warkworth

Your dream, your vision, our priority

Dahnie & Jenni proud supporters of

Mahurangi East Summer Cellar Door Hours: Thursday - Monday, 11am -5pm Wine Tastings | Picnic Cheese Boxes | Christmas Wine Bundles 568 Matakana Road, Matakana 0985 0800 494 888 |

info@matakanaestate.co.nz

Tennis Club

Dahnie Burton M 021 628 327

dahnie.burton@bayleys.co.nz

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, LICENSED UNDER REAA 2008

www.mahutennis.co.nz

Jenni Marsh M 021 717 719

jenni.marsh@bayleys.co.nz

Bayleys Rodney North 09 425 7640 Deal Manager – Raymond Barnes 027 291 0566 with the Specialists

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Proud Supporters of

Mahurangi East

sunnysideup

46 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

Set in magical Matakana, Plume Restaurant is the per staff Christmas party or year end function. Come, trea celebrate your success but you’ll need to hurry, so lock Richard Robson, Matakana Winegrowers

Wine

www.matakanawine.co.nz

Restaurant is a great place to gather and reward dynamic, Set in Plume magical Matakana, Plume successful teams.

Enjoying a relaxed setting, Restaurant is the perfect place for country coastal All eyes onit the weather is recognised for its superb cuisine and also the weather obsession is in high gear at the moment as we head Our is grape growing your staff Christmas party orgourmet year end toward the hotter cellar door for Runner Duck Estate Vineyard’s fine wines. months of the year. It’s been a great start to the season, with function.

Come, treat the team and generally mild to warm weather and not too much rain north of Auckland at this stage. NIWA says that we are currently experiencing moderate La Niña Our spacious function room, Rengarenga, accommodates celebrate your success but you’ll need conditions through to mid-2021. La Niña is one extreme of the phenomenon private dining for events of up to 80 people and you yourOscillation, the other extreme being El Niño. called Theand Southern to hurry, so lock your date in now! is great news for grapegrowers at the moment, and also the population guests can enjoy drinks and finger food on theThis patio before your in general, as La Niña will bring warmer than average sea temperatures and a Plume Restaurant a greatTwo place to gather andintimate spaces allow for lunch or is dinner. smaller more warmer than average summer for most of the North Island. What does worry reward dynamic, teams.

Enjoying a relaxed us as grapegrowers is the increased chance of a tropical cyclone or two brushing groups successful of up to 12 people in each room.

past us and dumping a large amount of rain between February and April. One country coastal setting, it is recognised for its superb big Plume rain eventVillas, might be okay, but two in the space of two or three weeks can Should you decide to stay longer, 12 new luxury gourmet cuisine and is also the cellar door for Runner spell disaster for our crop. Once the ground is wet, the vines will suck up the ranging from 1-3 bedrooms, have been addedmoisture, within causing the berries to bulge and split and mould to grow.

Duck Estate Vineyard’s fine wines.

grounds. These all share a swimming pool andThere areare a arelaxed few things we can do to try to mitigate the adverse effects of rain. We can spray fungicides Our spacious room, Rengarenga, strollfunction from the restaurant.

Without doubt you will find Plume to stop the mould and mildew growing, which we already do, but we are increasingly aware of trying to minimise chemical use in the way accommodates dining for events up to 80 Villas aprivate comfortable place to of base yourself while enjoying the close to harvest. Once I knew that there was an increased we do things, especially risk of La Niña, I began an extensive regime of extra shoot thinning in our vines people and you delights and your guests enjoy drinks and many of the can region. www.theplumecolle to try to open up the canopy and allow more air through them to keep them finger food on the patio before your lunch or dinner.

SCL/PLU2018/39 Two smaller more intimate spaces allow for groups of up to 12 people in each room.

Should you decide to stay longer, 12 new luxury Plume Villas, ranging from 1-3 bedrooms, have been added within the grounds. These all share a swimming pool and are a relaxed stroll from the restaurant. Without doubt you will find Plume Villas a comfortable place to base yourself while enjoying the many delights of the region.

drier. This will decrease the amount of grapes available to harvest, which most growers will do anyway to increase quality.

There are some varieties of grapes that are better suited to handling wet conditions and the extra water that can be sucked up during a rain event. Albarino grapes have quite thick skins and are less likely to split under pressure after a rain event.

Syrah and verdelho bunches are quite loose, which means they are less likely to hold moisture inside the bunch if some of their berries do split. Pinot gris, on the other hand, has thinner skin and very small tight bunches, so a number of heavy rain events close together can nearly wipe out a harvest. So, we are in the hands of Mother Nature; maybe luck will be on our side this year.

Christmas shopping in Wellsford Wellsford retailers are offering people two extra incentives to shop local this year, with a street market and late night Christmas shopping on Wednesday, December 23.

Shops will be open until 7pm and have bargain tables out on Rodney Street.

There will be carols and Christmas songs from the Local Vocals choir, plus Santa will be in town for fun and photos.

Wellsford Plus has also arranged for Santa to visit Wellsford so he can meet local children and have photos taken in the run-up to Christmas. He will be at Hammer Hardware at 29 Station Road from Thursday, December 17 to Sunday, December 20 and at Hobbs Gifts & Homewares in Rodney Street from Monday, December 21 to Thursday, December 24. Santa will be at both venues between 10am and noon daily.

BICYCLE MECHANIC

Shimano approved Fully equipped workshop Road Bikes Mountain Bikes Full Suspension BMX Bikes Parts & Accessories

www.theplumecollection.co.nz

Matakana Bikes | 09 423 0076 Now located at Matakana Country Park, 1151 Leigh Road, Matakana info@matakanabicyclehire.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

sunnysideup

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 47

Bayside E ATERY | BISTRO

Open 8-4 daily

Ev ening meal s f r om D e c emb er 2 8 Soaked Oats are returning to the Sawmill Cafe just two months after they last played the venue.

Ball tour bouncing into Leigh There will be three bands for the price of one at Leigh’s Sawmill Cafe on Saturday, January 2, when Daffodils, Soaked Oats and Marlin’s Dreaming take to the stage.

The five-date North Island summer Beach Ball tour is being touted as “a mission to create the pop, punk, indie, sludgy soundtrack of your summer season” with three of New Zealand’s

freshest acts.

Two of the bands hail from Dunedin – Soaked Oats, who describe their sound as “sludge pop”, and Marlin’s Dreaming, who combine indie, psychedelic and surf rock – while indie band Daffodils are Auckland-based.

70 Kokihi Rd, Snells Beach • Off Arabella Lane • Ph 027 4247 365

Tickets cost $42, plus $5 booking fee, from banishedmusic.co.nz. Doors open at 8pm and it is an R18 show.

Free curry and movie night for Wellsford Community clean-up group Keep Wellsford Beautiful is hosting a free curry and movie night this Friday night, December 18 at 7pm. Organiser Jerusha Eden says the open air cinema event will take place on the grass between Wellsford Library and the skate park, and replaces the monthly town litter collection that usually runs on the third Sunday of each month. “This month we want to do things a little bit differently as a way to welcome the holiday season and farewell 2020,” she says. BYO blankets, all welcome.

Info: Keep Wellsford Beautiful on Facebook

THE AUCKL AND OPERA STUDIO PRESENTS:

i

a h w a g Man

a l Ga

The Annual Matakana Opera Picnic Saturday 27 February 2021 5:30pm

2021

SATURDAY

JAN 2nd 9am - 2pm

Corner of Ward Road and Matakana Valley Road

MANGAWHAI DOMAIN

Free Parking from 4:30 pm

over

150

Adults $57.50 Under 16 Free Tickets available at: aucklandoperastudio.co.nz

$4

STALLS

ENTRY $2 kids

Join us for a fun-filled day at the Domain • PRODUCE • CRAFT • JEWELLERY • FOOD TRUCKS • DOG SHOW • GARDEN ART • FASHION • RETRO • MUSIC • NOVELTY • RIDES Brought to you by

AUCKLAND OPERA STUDIO Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

For more info, or to book a stall contact

mangawhaigala@gmail.com MDS Mangawhai Domain Society 022 509 1951

sunnysideup

48 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

September 2020 to February 2021

Open Daily 9am to 5pm

WE ARE OPEN 5 Church Road, Matakohe, Northland 09 431 7417 www.kaurimuseum.com

Earth Beat is described as a haven for cutting edge creativity.

Earth Beat festival promises ‘life-changing experiences’ Visit our new exhibition: Made in Our Backyard.

A blanket made from slag bags and an eel skin golf bag. Visit our exhibition to learn the stories of some of our locally made treasures.

Adult $7 • Child $3 (6-16 years) • Child under 6 FREE Family $15 (2 adults + all Children)

Open Wednesday to Sunday 10am – 3pm Eftpos & Credit Cards accepted.

Warkworth Museum. Parry Kauri Park, Tudor Collins Drive (Off Wilson Road, Warkworth) | 09 425 7093 warkworthmuseum@xtra.co.nz | www.warkworthmuseum.co.nz

Early tickets are now on sale for the 2021 Earth Beat Music + Art Festival, which runs from March 17-21 at Atiu Regional Park.

This year’s festival, which celebrates the 2021 equinox, will feature more than 60 artists and musicians and more than 70 workshops and presentations.

Artists include Haana, Drumspyder, Oka, Isaac Chambers Band, Loonaloop, Shai Shriki and many more.

They will perform a huge range of music including world, reggae, electronica, dub, trance, folk, blues and house.

In addition, there will be comedy and poetry performances, a kids’ nature and activity zone, and

a healers and wellness circle.

Organisers describe the event as a haven for “cutting edge creativity”, “life-changing experiences” and as “New Zealand’s premier family camping festival”.

Earth Beat takes sustainability and it’s zero-waste goals seriously and participants are required to take responsibility for their own rubbish and recycling.

It’s free for under-14s to attend the festival and residents of Tapora and Wellsford can attend at a discounted rate. To take advantage of this, residents can email tickets@earthbeatfestival.com and send a picture of their local utility bill with their name on it. They will receive a discount code for use when purchasing tickets.

Enjoy a horse ride to remember on the beautiful white sands of Pakiri surf beach

PAKIRI BEACH HORSE RIDES

317 Rahuikiri Road, Pakiri Beach 09 422 6275 pakirihorse@xtra.co.nz www.horseride-nz.co.nz DAILY RIDES • ACCOMMODATION • SCHOOL HOLIDAY RIDING CAMPS Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Pakiri Beach Horse Rides

Riding Holidays and Overnight Safaris

sunnysideup

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 49

The Chills return to Leigh for North Island mini-tour Legendary Dunedin band The Chills return to the Leigh Sawmill Café between Christmas and New Year as part of a brief four-date tour of the North Island.

The iconic Kiwi group is playing just one other venue and two summer festivals before they arrive in Leigh on Thursday, December 30 – their first visit since the Snow Bound album tour in September 2018.

Founder and lead singer Martin Phillips says the summer trip north will be a good opportunity to play live together for the first time since lockdown and test out new songs from their forthcoming album, Scatterbrain.

“We were meant to be at the end of a 30-date US tour right now, with some Australian and New Zealand dates to follow,” he says. “We’ve cancelled 50 possible shows.

“So, since we haven’t played since March, and our album has been put back to May next year, it’s important to get out and do some shows, and also to start playing our new material.”

The Chills had almost finished laying down tracks for Scatterbrain when Covid-19 and Level 4 struck.

“I was pleased that we were recording when lockdown happened – we were only four days off finishing – and that I had projects in mind to focus on, like the rough mixes,” he says. “It would have been a very different story if I hadn’t. But it was still pretty strange.

Ticket giveaway

The Chills will test out new songs in Leigh.

I live alone and it was quite scary over the first few days, wondering how long it would all last.”

Phillips describes Scatterbrain as a “deliberate attempt to bring the band struggling into the 21st century”, with a shift away from guitar and keyboardled songs.

“I thought that would make them problematic to play live, but they sound great,” Phillips says. “We had a

playback party a couple of months ago and the general consensus was it’s our best produced album, and best album since Submarine Bells (in 1990).”

The Chills will be supported at the Sawmill Café by Wellington-based psychedelic indie band KITA, featuring Nikita Tu-Bryant on guitar and vocals, Ed Zuccollo on keyboards and Moog synth and the self-proclaimed “filthy drive and barking psychedelic

Bring your timber cladding & deck back to life this summer with Dryden Woodoil!

Available in clear or tinted Call us or call in today!

0800 425 800 3 Glenmore Drive

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Mahurangi Matters has a double pass to give away for The Chills Leigh Sawmill Cafe gig on December 30. To enter, simply email your name and best contact number to reporter@localmatters.co.nz. Closing date Monday, December 21.

drums” of Rick Cranson. The band was working with Grammy award-winning Italian producer, studio engineer and mixing engineer Tommaso Colliva on their debut album when Covid-19 struck, which they have since been finishing remotely.

Tickets for the Leigh show cost $40, plus $4 booking fee, from banishedmusic.com/tickets and doors open at 8pm.

50 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

3 x Moving Trucks now available from $85 per day + 48c per Km Drive on Car Licence

Cars

from $35 per day*

*Conditions apply

Warkworth Car & Truck

Rentals

09 425 7599 | 0274 836 660 info@warkworthcarrentals.co.nz www.warkworthcarrentals.co.nz 41 Woodcocks Road, Warkworth

Gardening Andrew Steens

Keeping your cool With this year’s rather active La Niña weather system and global warming adding an extra push to temperatures, this summer is shaping up to be hot and sticky. For tropical plant aficionados like me, hot and humid weather with regular rainfall is a recipe for success. Previously marginal plants such as sugarcane, heliconia, pawpaw, jackfruit, mango and bananas will thrive. However, the gardener may suffer. With northern European ancestry and carrying an extra kilo or twenty, I tend to melt in these conditions.

There are several tips and techniques that gardeners can use to improve conditions for both working and relaxing around the property. Firstly, save up your heavy work for the early morning or evening when it is cooler. Overcast days are a boon for the same reason. Of course, wear a good sunhat and loosefitting clothing through the heat of the day and drink plenty of water.

Shade is critical. How much of your property is covered in shady trees? Not only do shade trees provide direct cooling by cutting out sunlight, they also reduce temperatures by virtue of transpiration, which cools the surrounding air as the trees pull water up from the root and release it as water vapour from the leaves.

The shade also reduces the “heat island” effect, where sunlight is absorbed by buildings and paving, being released back to the atmosphere as heat.

Although any trees will provide these free and essential services, my preference is for small leaved deciduous trees on suburban properties. Small leaves allow filtered light through, which is better for the plants or lawn below and, come autumn, the smaller leaves are less messy than large leaved varieties. Deciduous trees also allow maximum light onto the property over winter when every bit of sunlight is appreciated.

In our area, excellent small-leaved deciduous specimens that love the heat include albizzia julibrissin (silk tree), jacaranda mimosifolia, schizolobium parahybum (Brazilian fern tree), lagerstroemia indica (crepe myrtle), melia azedarach (Indian bead tree), gleditsia ‘sunburst’ (golden honey locust), robinia varieties (e.g. mop top), radermachera sinica (canton lace) and my current favourite tabebuia chrysantha (golden trumpet tree), which flowered for the first time for me this spring.

Water is the other natural solution to excess heat. A swimming pool is ideal for a cooling dip in the heat of the day after mowing the lawn or digging the veggie garden. Even a little pool is worthwhile for this. I recall using a recycled spa pool as a cold plunge pool for summer; easy to tuck away out of sight in the garden and not too much water needed to fill it.

Not to be overlooked, though, is the cooling effect of water features in the garden. Just the sight of water, such as a trough with waterlilies or a reflecting pond, has a psychological effect. Add the sound of trickling or running water and the effect is increased. Place small water features near your outdoor living area, and you will benefit from these small gains.

If you have sufficient water, then spraying hard surfaces, such as pavement, can reduce nearby air temperatures by several degrees. Moving water is even more effective. A spray-style fountain can decrease surrounding air temperatures in a radius of several or even tens of metres. In times of high heat stress, consider turning on your sprinklers. It’s not the ideal time to water the garden, but the plants will love you for it, as will your family!

BRAKES • COOLING SYSTEMS • WOF • SERVICING • ALL REPAIRS - ALL MODELS • CAMBELTS • TRANS FLUSHING

CAMERON AUTO SERVICES Christmas closing noon Wednesday 23rd December and open 8am Monday 11th January 2021

PHONE: 09 425 7575 • 6/14 Glenmore Drive, Warkwor th • PHONE: 09 425 7575 Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

rurallife

rurallife

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 51

ON THE LAND

Mahurangi inventor engineers solution for orchard industry Jonathan Killick news@localmatters.co.nz

Warkworth engineer Gerrard Merrick says his three-wheel electric all terrain vehicles are leaving quad bikes in the dust.

He says they are far safer and able to tackle much tougher terrain.

His latest invention is an electric “specialist horticultural vehicle” (SHV), designed with kiwifruit and avocado growers in mind.

He says a string of quad bike accidents a few years ago prompted a major industry player to get in contact with him about his ultra-stable ATVs. Last month, Gerrard presented the prototype for his specialised electric e3 SHV to an orchard in Maungatapere, and is planning to get in front of as many harvesting and packing companies as possible in the coming months.

The secret to their stability is the three-wheel design, which ensures at least one wheel is stabilising the vehicle at all times, even on steep and contoured inclines.

“Just like a tripod in photography, it’s much more stable.”

The e3 SHV also features an electric adjustable seat, which allows easy access to overhead kiwifruit vines of

varying heights.

Gerrard believes that his new SHV will change the way that growers all over the world pollinate and test their vines.

A single overnight charge costs approximately 73 cents and allows the vehicle to travel up to 40km.

Gerrard collaborated with notable Warkworth engineer Mike Smith on the design to ensure it could be easily manufactured in reasonable quantities.

Mike has contacts among orchard growers and agents overseas in California, France and Italy, which will help to the get the product offshore.

It’s also being tested by a local paraplegic woman as a solution for paralysed owners of lifestyle blocks.

Since Gerrard released his first electric ATV in 2014, his vehicles have been gaining a reputation.

He says all of the vehicles he has sold are still in service with the original owners.

“There are fewer moving parts, so they last longer and are more reliable than a typical work vehicle,” he says.

Gerrard challenges potential farming customers during demonstrations to match what he can do on his ATV on their quad bike, and he always wins.

His original e3 ATV can tackle inclines

The e3 SHV is Gerrard’s second electric vehicle design.

up to 40 degrees in pitch and is able to travel up to 60km/h.

This reporter took a ride and can confirm the vehicle is something of a motorised mountain goat.

The inclines and contoured slopes it traversed at speed were so extreme that if it were not for the sturdy seat belt, the passenger would have tumbled out of the vehicle and down the hill.

Making your place a green space

Growing summer veg?

OPEN 7 DAYS

Let us help

Grandad’s garden mix • Compost • Topsoil • General fertiliser • Sheep pellets • Blood & Bone and everything in between 183 Sandspit Road, Warkworth • Call 0800 638 254 or 09 422 3700 • www.wyatts.net.nz NOW OPEN at 107 Mangawhai Heads Road, Mangawhai Heads • Call 09 431 5445 Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

rurallife

52 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

Countryliving Julie Cotton admin@oceanique.co.nz

Diving for kina

“Do the mahi, get the treats” what a perfect way to describe the diving for and collection of kina. Our endearing Maori equivalent of a long walk to the dairy to obtain a bag of boiled lollies.

Meet my good friend Mr Sonny Matthews (Ngati Whakahemo), a local lad now, but forever will the lasting impressions of his little feet, S ATwandering THE the shores of the mighty Bay of Plenty with his respected elders SHOW, 21 for MARCH 2020 searching kaimoana, remain.

Strolling beneath shore-lined cliffs of overhanging pohutukawa, bursting flower buds, which mirrored the shiny baubles of a thousand Christmas trees, we made our way to our undisclosed destination for my first kina dive.

These Maori boys get quite protective of their kaimoana hot spots (hehe).

Walking along and playfully jumping across rock pools, Sonny filled my heart with the innocence of his childhood, his precious stories of gathering the presents from the sea, and today he was going to gift some to me.

Growing up in the Outback has instilled in me a healthy fear of the ocean and all her power, but as I respectfully listened to the advice and guidance from Sonny that had been tenderly passed down through to him by generations of his whanau, I started to feel their leadership, and it made me feel brave.

Christmas

Sale

Now On!

Call us for our specials rite anonsite demo onsite demo an demo nformation rmore moreinformation information Call Doug for

an onsite demo motors.co.nz rs.co.nz motors.co.nz

it

rd ord co.nz .co.nz

Sonny filled my heart with the innocence of his childhood.

The water was crystal clear as the sun’s rays pieced through it. The gentle ripples of the moving tide echoed the softly unfolding ribbons of a gift, and I was so eager to open it. I paused for a moment on that rock to watch Sonny.

I had to. The sight of him so natural in the water gathering his treats stole my breath away; the teachings from his youth so strongly evident in the way he confidently dived and gathered the kina. A personal history lesson was being taught in front of me. I closed my eyes, and I could visualise that excited little boy running along the shores of

his ancestral land, a beating proud heart next to his uncles with armfuls of kai to share with waiting whanau.

I slowly guided myself off the rocks and plunged deep down into the crisp water.

Now with brimming wide eyes I could finally see the beautiful treats he speaks of sitting silently on the sea floor. The slow waltzing movement of the current sprinkled the grains of shifting sand all around me. Streamers of seaweed gently waffled past swirling all around, and I was now encapsulated within my very own Christmas snow globe.

Oleo-Mac

For cutting firewood, for minor and medium pruning jobs as well as DIY activities, the electric chainsaw is the perfect tool. Its 2 kW power rating means you can perform even the most demanding tasks rapidly and easily.

Oleo-Mac petrol engine chainsaws are the perfect tool for multiple pruning jobs, for felling and cutting trees in the woods, in the country or in your back garden.

I was hesitant to dive down and get my very first kina, but through Sonny’s stories I summoned the courage. In that magical moment I slid my hand on top of that little boy’s and into the strong warm grasp of his uncle’s, and I dived to the bottom and grabbed one.

Surfacing, I ripped my snorkel off and screamed with all the excitement of my childhood Julie. It was big and prickly, and I swam with it to the rocks where Sonny was sitting with plenty. I knew he could feel my excitement as he had his own all those many years before.

I went to get more, and each time was just as exciting as the one before. Perched on top of the rocks with the afternoon sun slowly massaging the chill from our bodies, we opened our gifts with two spoons, and I slid the parcel of creamy roe down the back of my throat. The taste sensation was foreign to me, and I fear I have lost my words to describe it. Perhaps those words were lost in the translation of beauty that it took to obtain them? Eclipsed only by the lovely undercurrent of tradition and memories that feed Sonny’s cravings for kina that are as strong as the sea. This Christmas, let’s slide commercialism to the back of the tree, grab hold of our whanau and create lasting memories. Enduring gifts tucked inside our hearts, magically opening forevermore. Merry Christmas.

Club Cadet

With innovative Synchro Steer® technology you’ll be able to tackle tough terrain and steep hills quickly and easily with added traction and control – without damaging your turf.

This model offers a commercial engine and transmission along with a heavy duty mowing deck.

Full range of Lawnmaster mowers perfect for the smaller suburban sized lawns where a superior finish is required.

0800 765 263 09 423 7788

343 Rodney St, Wellsford manager@polandatv.co.nz www.polandmotors.co.nz

Full range of BE water pumps

Polands for the equipment you need on your lifestyle block or farm Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

rurallife

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 53

Ian

Wayne

EDMONDS & MASON PANEL & PAINT Private & All Insurance Work Phone 425 8723 • Fax 425 9526

Contact Wayne 021 765 706 or Ian 021 977 729 Email: autoglassww@xtra.co.nz

Bull riding is among the most dangerous and hair-raising rodeo events. Photo, Equine Alley Photography.

“Proud supporter of the Warkworth Rodeo”

Cowboys set sights on Warkworth

FREE PARKING

Warkworth Rodeo will be back at the Warkworth Showgrounds on January 1 offering all the usual thrills and spills.

It will be the 61st rodeo held at the showgrounds and will feature bareback riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, team roping, rope and tie, saddle bronc, bull riding and steer riding.

Warkworth rodeo secretary Paul Manton says Covid-19 will likely mean fewer overseas cowboys this year, but Warkworth has had a lot of interest from cowboys in clubs around the country.

They will be competing against the likes of local favourites such as bull rider Jack Retimana.

Mr Manton says events that took a back seat last year will be more to the fore this year – notably the novice and junior steer ride and the barrel racing.

Anyone over 12 can participate in a steer ride by simply turning up on the day and wearing suitable jeans and closed-in shoes. However, the number of steers is limited, so it is advisable to register in advance by texting Krista Fletcher on 021 265 5158.

There will also be an exhibition of breakaway roping – an event similar to rope and tie, but one that does not require the calf to be thrown and tied.

Rope and tie has long been criticised for its alleged cruelty by animal rights activists, and Mr Manton thinks breakaway roping may ultimately come to replace it.

A top prize of $500 is awarded in each of the major open events – bareback

riding, rope and tie, steer wrestling, barrel racing and saddle bronc.

Winners of the junior barrel race, novice steer ride and junior steer ride will take home $50 each.

Gates open at 11am and the day continues until around 4.30pm.

Adults $20, children $5, children under 5 free. A family pass is $50.

Know your rodeo events …

Bareback. A rider attempts to stay on his horse using only his balance and by holding on to rigging located behind the horse’s shoulders.

Steer Wrestling. A cowboy dismounts from his horse and uses his skill and strength to wrestle a steer to the ground in the fastest time possible.

Barrel Racing. A horse rider traces a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels as quickly as possible.

Team Roping. Two ropers on horseback – a header and heeler – attempt to rope a steer. The header attempts to rope the head of a running steer. Once he has succeeded, he turns the steer so that its hind legs face the heeler, who attempts to rope both back legs.

Rope and Tie. A rider on horseback must rope a calf before it reaches the end of the arena. The rider then dismounts throws the calf to the ground and ties any three feet together.

Saddle Bronc. A cowboy attempts to ride a bucking horse for eight seconds while holding on to a braided rein.

Bull Riding. A cowboy attempts to ride a bucking bull for eight seconds.

• Scrapers • Bulldozers • Diggers • Trucks • Roading • Subdivisions • House sites • Farm works

Proud supporters of Warkworth Rodeo

Ph: 09Fax: 425 8860 9300274 970 930 Email: Ph: 09 425 8860 09 425Mob: 89310274 Mob: 970admin@sceats.nz Email: irsceats@xtra.co.nz 120 Dennis Road RD1 WARKWORTH 0981 www.sceatsearthmovers.co.nz

GUBBS MOTORS LIMITED Proud to support Warkworth Rodeo Freephone 0800 482 271

Phone: 09 425 8348 Email: coachlines@gubbs.co.nz Website: www.gubbs.co.nz

RODEO WARKWORTH SHOWGROUNDS • January 1st @ 11am FOOD • COFFEE • MERCHANDIS E

Adult $20 • Youth $5 • Under 5’s free • Family $50 (2 adults & up to 6 children)

Dogs not permitted on grounds

Local Barrel Race • Local Steer Ride - Entry on the day To enter, phone or txt 021 265 5158

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

rurallife

54 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

GREENWOOD

On the farm

GROUNDSPREAD LIMITED

Bev Trowbridge

09 423 8871

• Fertilizer SPREADERS

• TIPPERS

LIMESTONE, HARD METAL AND POST PEELINGS

• TRACTORS

MULCHING, CULTIVATION, LOADER WORK, SCOOPWORK

The quest for good meat Well, it’s that time of year again when we’re all on the hunt for that something special for the Christmas table. Also when the old/new dilemma rears its head more strongly about how much meat we should be consuming at this festive time of year.

Perhaps the more important questions we should be pondering are more nuanced. Where exactly do we source our meat? Is it ethically produced, without cruelty? Is it sustainably reared in a farming regime that has a positive carbon footprint and looks after the wider environment?

Growing Is it locally sourced (good for reducing emissions and for the local economy)? With so many things your own pork is to weigh up we could be forgiven for just going for particularly well fish – but wait, there are moral dilemmas there, too! worth it, and pigs Your best first port of call, of course, is to grow your can be such fun and own. Then you can make sure that all the right boxes are ticked. There’s nothing more rewarding responsive animals than tucking into your own home-reared produce, to care for. and with meat even more so than the more universal veggies and fruit. The taste difference is often the biggest surprise.

Growing your own pork is particularly well worth it, and pigs can be such fun and responsive animals to care for. They will also eat up all your garden waste, and do some digging for you if you wish. Pigs can easily be contained behind electric fencing and moved around. They just need a small shelter. Of course, I’m duty bound to point out that you aren’t legally allowed to sell your meat from your own land from home kill, but many of us have family who do have land, and this source of produce is unbeatable year-round.

Our next option is to source locally produced and retailed fare, which might sound easy, but there is a problem. The vast majority of our meat comes to us from centralised sources in the hands of a small number of big meat companies.

The biggest impediment to trying to operate a local meat business (selling your own farm produce direct to your customers) is the inability to secure legitimate access to slaughtering facilities. The few slaughterhouses that remain in operation are owned by the meat companies, and they do not kill for farmers. Instead, you have to sell to them. This is why you don’t see locally produced meat for sale.

We have first hand experience of trying to do this ourselves back along when we bought up the old Stubb’s butchery in Warkworth and tried retailing our own plus other local farmers’ meat through the shop. We had to truck our livestock all the way to Hamilton or Hikurangi for slaughter, but the slaughterhouses would always get bought up and close out the small guys like ourselves. There are a few small local family meat operations that do manage to make a go of it dotted around the country, but they are few and far between.

So yeah, if we want to open up the market for local, sustainable meat produce, getting access to slaughterhouses is where we need to start!

“

• DIGGERS DRAINAGE, EARTHWORKS

”

ADD ROOM, SPACE, AND VALUE TO YOUR HOME

OUTSIDER WWW.SHADESDIRECT.CO.NZ

0800 SHADES

CLEARSPAN

OUTDOOR SCREENS

Contact us for no obligation measure and quote Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

FOLDING ARM AWNINGS

rurallife

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 55

FOAM bid to clean up catchment A local environmental group devoted to restoring and maintaining the health of the Matakana and Glen Eden river catchments is preparing to bid for more than $3 million of the Government’s Freshwater Improvement Fund.

Friends of Awa Matakanakana (FOAM) has been chosen as a key stakeholder for an Auckland Councilled application in recognition of its efforts and plans to assess and manage water quality and sediment loss from both rivers into the Sandspit estuary.

If successful, the bid would also fund a work programme to improve the quality of the rivers and allow for improved community access to both waterways.

In the three years since the group began, FOAM members have developed work programmes and technical strategies to monitor water quality and sedimentation and test for bacteria in the 5000ha catchment.

Founder member Martin Evans said the group wanted to stop sediment, stop contamination and allow people

to enjoy the two rivers, each of which is about 14km long, but first they needed to study exactly where the sediment was coming from, which required significant funding.

“It’s part of the Government’s Covid-19 response, so we would need to employ people,” he told the annual meeting of the Matakana Community Group last month. “We’re seeking more than $3 million, and we want to work with Ngati Manuhiri.”

He said it would take years to assess the extent of sediment loss and to collate information, but progress had already been made since FOAM was formed three years ago.

“There was no catchment management plan, no data, no rain gauges,” he said.

“Now monitoring has increased and we’re one of the largest citizen science groups in New Zealand.

“We know 80 per cent of sediment is coming from 20 per cent of the area. We have to prove where the hotspots are.”

Briefs Back to the 80s in Leigh It’s time to dust off your legwarmers and floof up your hair – 80s tribute band Frisky Business are returning to the Leigh Sawmill Café for a show on Saturday, January 9 at 8pm. The flashback set list will include classic hits by Michael Jackson, Queen, Wham, David Bowie, Pat Benetar, A-ha, Eurythmics, Def Leppard, AC/ DC and more. The band actively encourages dressing the part. Tickets cost $15 in advance from eventbrite.co.nz or $20 on the door if not sold out prior.

Christmas crafting in Snells Beach

Festive creativity will be on the agenda at Mahurangi East Library this Saturday, December 19 from 10.30am to noon, when the Friends of the Library hold a Christmas crafting morning. Activities will include making gingerbread, clay tree decorations and wax paper ornaments. All welcome.

Wellsford

VET CLINIC

We make feeding a quality, balanced diet to your cats and dogs easy.

Visit us today for nutritional guidance and information.

We have all the premium foods, treats, and nutritional supplements your furry family members need for health and wellness.

Raw Meat Organs Bones Tripe Dry food ZiwiPeak • Addiction • Mighty Mix Treats 100% natural with no nasties

• Care for all your veterinary needs.

• Four dedicated Vets and friendly office staff, who deliver a comprehensive service.

• A Saturday morning clinic.

• An after hours emergency service in Wellsford.

116 Rodney Street, Wellsford

(opposite McDonalds)

Phone 423 8008

www.vetsonline.co.nz/wellsfordvet

BE IN QUICK BEFORE STOCKS RUN OUT! POWER AND DRIVEN BY PERFORMANCE INNOVATION LAWN

NTHS 20 MO REE!* ST F * TERE IN

STABILITY AND PERFORMANCE

TRACTORS

$

100% Natural & Raw Dog and Cat Food

We provide:

FROM

3,799 Refers model TS138

*

TS138

RRP $4,499

17.0hp - 38" cutting width ZTR® ZERO TURN MOWERS

$

FROM

$

5,899*

Refers model R216

*

Lawn Tractors & Zero Turns Z246 R216 RRP on 5,999 hills Unbeatable realiability - Best $

9.kW @ 2900rpm - 94cm cutting width

17-19 Elizabeth Street, Warkworth (opposite the Bridgehouse/Shark Bar)

09 422 3215

FAST, EASY BEAUTIFUL MOWING

*Valid from 01/09/19 – 31/12/19 while stocks last, at participating Husqvarna Dealers only.

Heavy duty hill country mowers - 2WD & 4WD

POWER AND PERFORMANCE

Your local authorised Husqvarna Dealer:

Mention this ad and receive a free yummy gift for your cat or dog with any purchase!

7,699*

incl. 94cm Cutting Deck

Refers model Z246

*

18.0hp - 46" cutting width - 2.4 acres/hr

RIDERS FROM

WWW.HUSQVARNA.COM

AYS 1000 D REE!* TS138 was $4,299 EST F R E T IN $

NOW 4,099

Most efficient mower on the market

mowers&more GATMANS

*Interest Free conditions apply

Cnr HBC Highway & East Coast Rd, SILVERDALE l Ph: 09 426 5612

www.gatmans.co.nz l OPEN 7 DAYS Mon to Fri 8.30 - 5pm; Sat 9 - 3pm; Sun 10-2pm

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

rurallife

56 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

Taporapora kuia finally recognised for farming feats Taporapora’s Wikitoria Wright has been awarded the Awhuwhenua Trophy for farming excellence – 56 years after she deserved to win it.

In 1964, the trophy was presented to her husband Rawson ‘Ross’ Wright, but Wikitoria was overlooked.

“That was their policy. It was a man’s world back then,” Wikitoria says. “But Ross and I were a team, and we worked tirelessly together.”

Wikitoria recently attended a ceremony by Awhuwhenua where her farming accomplishments were recognised.

Sometime after the cup was originally presented to Ross, the couple formalised their partnership by putting Wikitoria’s name on the deed of the farm.

However, the solicitor wrote up the draft document and allocated Wikitoria just a one per cent stake.

“He tried to say that’s how it is, but I said he’d better make it 50/50 or I was out of there.”

The Wrights were originally from Auckland and married when Wikitoria was 20.

Ross entered the ballot for farm settlements for returned servicemen and was given the opportunity to settle in Taporapora, which he took to be closer to his home marae and iwi in Pouto.

The couple were among the first six settlers in Taporapora in 1954.

“It was pioneering days. There a was no power or telephone.”

When the Wrights arrived at the ‘new’ farmhouse that was waiting for them, it was in disrepair. Gorse blocked the front door and there was a seedling growing out of the toilet.

“We were given 75 heifers that had never seen humans before. They were really wild.”

The heifers had to have ropes put around their legs

Wikitoria Wright, age 90, has finally been recognised for her work breaking in a farm on the Okahukura Peninsula.

before they could be milked, and it would take Ross and Wikitoria hours to milk them by hand every morning and evening.

Eventually, they were able to get a diesel engine for their milking shed.

“We worked very hard to improve the farm, all the while caring for a newborn and two other children.”

The couple raised seven children altogether.

In 1964, 10 years after taking ownership, the farm was declared an award-winning property, said to well exceed the standard of all others entered that year.

Wikitoria and Ross’ son Earle Wright sharemilked

on the farm from age 17, and eventually bought it in 1984. He continues to run it as a dairy farm to this day.

Wikitoria has since swapped farming life for living in the Nautilus apartments in Orewa, but she still stays involved in local issues in the rohe.

She is on the Council of Elders for Te Uri o Hau Settlement Trust and Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua.

She also sits on the 28th Maori Battalion A-Company Trust Board, which has an academy for young boys.

Next year’s student intake will be named Rawson Wright.

Ross Wright died in 1997.

RODNEY SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

PHONE 09 422 7166 OR 027 494 6370

Continuing to support

Continuing to support our farmers through the generations our farmers through the We offer our clients expertise to help them achieve maximum returns, by providing generations a range of national and international marketing options We offer our clients expertise to help them achieve maximum returns, by Contact your local agent today providing a range national Robert “Biscuit” McLean of 027 590 4829and Jasyn Yearbury 027 655 6551 international marketing options Grant “Skin” McLean 021 775 848

Wellsford Saleyards 1909

www.carrfields.co.nz/livestock

Contact your local agent today

Robert “Biscuit” McLean 027 590 4829 Jasyn Yearbury

027 655 6551

Grant “Skin” McLean

021 775 848

Andrew Simpson

027 449 1228

Craig Couling

027 292 6828

www.carrfields.co.nz/livestock

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.

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

LOOK OUT FOR US AROUND TOWN!

rurallife

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 57

Gordon Levet has retired after 34 years of breeding sheep.

The Romney rams were in excellent condition.

Sheep breeders from all over the country travelled to Kikitangeo, near Wellsford, this month for a chance to bid on Gordon Levet’s famed rams.

There were more than 50 registered buyers at Gordon’s annual sale, and 76 rams were sold.

The highest selling ram on the day went for $3600, which sold to the Swan family of Wairoa.

Bidders included prominent Southland breeder Andrew Mitchell, who travelled from Gore.

One man said he had come all the way from Tauranga just to spectate the

sheep, just like antibiotic resistance in humans.

He has had his best success in breeding resistance in recent years.

Resistance is measured with a dual purpose fecal count test (DPF), with a higher score indicating a better resistance.

The average DPF of Gordon’s 2015 born rams was 324, after 29 years of breeding for the trait. This year’s rams had an average DPF of 711.

His top sire on sale this month had a DPF of 1028 – ranked third in the country.

Top breeders travel to Wellsford for famed Levet rams

OLD

SOLD

SOLD

OLD

historic event.

It was Gordon’s final ram sale. His succession plans have not worked out, and he has embarked on a full dispersal sale.

Gordon said it was bittersweet to sell his life’s work, but the dispersal of his rams would be to the benefit of the national flock.

His Kikitangeo rams are famed for having been bred to resist parasitic worms without the need for drenching (inoculation).

Gordon says resistance to drenching is becoming a big problem among

Gordon said the prevalent theory that breeding for worm resistance stunts growth rates in sheep is wrong, and his work has proven his point.

Genetic tests showed his Sheep Improvement (SIL) growth index increased from 150 in the year 2000 to 1300 in 2018.

The final sale of his flock including lambs and ewes will take place at the Wellsford Saleyards on February 24. Gordon hopes it will be opened

by Minister of Agriculture Damien O’Connor.

SOLD

SOLD

Warkworth & Coast Residential & Land

Working for you.

Kim Kim Clementson 027 496 4363

kim.clementson@remax.co.nz

You won’t need luck selling your home, you just need Kim Keith & Bev

11 Neville Street, Warkworth , AUCKLAND 0910 | OFFICE 09 425 0261 | www.remax.nz | Northern Properties Ltd | Licensed REAA 2008 | Each office independently owned and operated

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

58 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Notice to people with rain tanks On 1 March 2021, the amount private water carriers pay to fill up their tankers with water at our filling stations will increase.

Current price: $1.386+GST per 1,000 litres New price: $3.90+GST per 1,000 litres

This means the cost to fill a tanker with 10,000 litres of water will rise by around $25, from $13.86 to $39.00 (+GST).

The new charge better reflects the cost of providing water at filling stations – a service which has been heavily subsidised for many years. It’s being applied after the summer peak to reduce pressure on rural and coastal communities, giving people time to learn about the change. This summer, we are opening three additional filling stations to help water carriers serve their customers in a timely manner.

www.watercare.co.nz

An Auckland Council Organisation

Leigh arts hub under threat from funding shortfall The future of Leigh’s Foundation Gallery & Arts Hub hangs in the balance unless immediate funding can be found to keep the enterprise going.

Australian artist Hillary Austin and her husband Richard Calder opened the gallery and art class space in Totara Road last December and have run regular exhibitions and tuition for artists of all abilities and ages throughout the year.

However, while class fees cover the rent and a few materials, the couple can no longer afford to keep Foundation going from their own pockets and are now appealing to local businesses and residents for help to keep classes running. Applications for grants and sponsorship have so far yielded nothing, so they have set up an online appeal via Go Fund Me. Hillary said although Foundation was started as “a private enterprise with a degree of altruism”, there were limits to how much they could do without some serious backing.

“It’s been a tough year,” she said.

“We’ve achieved all that we wanted to and more, but at massive personal cost.

“We have lots more projects we want to run next year, but it’s just a case of survival at the moment.”

Foundation’s linchpin is its Barefoot Artists education programme for children, with several weekly after

Hillary Austin pictured preparing for Foundation’s launch a year ago.

school and weekend classes and comprehensive school holiday activities, which attract participants from Pakiri, Warkworth, Snells Beach and Matakana as well as from Leigh itself.

“The programme is great and all the kids are doing such fabulous things,” Hillary said. “We’re hoping to continue into the New Year, but we need immediate funding.”

Money raised would help with the development of a two-year teaching programme, buy materials and fund outside help on large scale projects.

“We believe that our programme offers many positive benefits to a wide range of people and it would be a very great shame if we were unable to carry on,” Hillary said.

Donations to support Foundation can be made at gofundme.com/f/help-thefoundation-leigh-arts-hub-fund

AvalonSanders Avalon Sanders

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS...

MERRY CHRISTMAS, HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND REMEMBER TO SUPPORT LOCAL

If you’re thinking of selling in the New Year, now’s the time to get prepared and we’d love to help you do so ... Experience your best real estate move with Avalon and James!

N

Looking after you, together

Avalon 021 230 9515 | James 021 135 0740 Tandem Realty Limited Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Tandem Realty

SERVICE CENTRE OREWA Genuine Kia vehicle specialists

$100 OFF KIA SERVICING OREWA CAR SERVICES 192 Centreway Road, Orewa | 09-426 5351 Excludes service contracts, terms and conditions apply.

KIA200901 OrewaPartsService-220x52mm_FA2.indd 2

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

2/10/20 4:18 PM

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 59

AT moves to slow traffic

Speed limits in the Warkworth and can be found on the AT website at Matakana areas are the focus of two bit.ly/32tLiIR Auckland Transport (AT) road safety AT is also running a community safe Celebrates 12 years Local Tyre service to the community. initiatives taking place over the speeds initiative in the Matakana, Tyres Wheel Alignment coming months.

Leigh, Omaha and Tawharanui areas, Firstly, AT is asking for feedback on with infrastructure improvements as Wheel Balance Tyre Pressure plans to cut speed limits by up to well as reviewing speed limits.

Battery Shocks 60km/h on 15 rural roads in and AT’s elected member relationship around Warkworth, Matakana and the manager, Ben Halliwell, told last Brakes Wiper Blades Tawharanui Peninsula. month’s Rodney Local Board meeting The roads affected are Wilson, Hepburn that feedback had been sought on the Creek, Hodgart and Edwards Roads public’s experiences of roads in the south west of Warkworth; Matakana area via an online survey.

Planning a trip away this Christmas? Make it a safe one.

Valley, Ward, Smith and Govan “The wider Matakana area has been Drop in and see our friendly team for a no obligation safety Wilson Roads north of Matakana; chosen because of the very high check at Bridgestone Warkworth. and Takatu, Whitmore, Buckleton, speed-related car crashes Whether number you’reofan experienced investor, Baddeleys Beach, Clinton, Campbell resulting in death or serious injury on if you’re justroads,” starting out, Quinovic’s and Kookaburra Roads, plus or Haywood the local he said. onfident in our and Bishop Lanes and Pigeonproven Place, on Care AT has working with local andbeen Return systems can the Tawharanui Peninsula.

BRIDGESTONE WARKWORTH residents, including Matakana and market giveuntil you Point the edge make it agroups, real 40 Whitaker Road, Warkworth 0910 Feedback can be submitted Wells tocommunity go local schools and emergency services success. rtiesJanuary that 17 and if the proposals ahead, the changes will come into personnel to encourage support for effect on May 31. Details of all the and compliance with new speed limits, ide FREE as well installing new signage. roads and exact speed limitsLeave involvedit to Mobil theasexperts, leave it with us.

c’s FREE ing offer!

SH1

CHRISTMAS SAFETY CHECKS

tising for your

Bridgestone Warkworth

Briefs LINDA OTTER Crash barriers on hold

W at

so

n

FINANCE AVAILABLE NOW

Big Buzz seeks volunteers Organisers of The Big Buzz bee and honey festival in Matakana are on the lookout QUINOVIC WARKWORTH for volunteers to help out on Sunday, February 14. Volunteers receive a free T-shirt.

Email: bigbuzznz@gmail.com with “Join the Buzz” in the subject line.

Shop 1, 20 Neville Street Warkworth P O Box 330 Warkworth 0941 M: 022 697 7921 T: (09) 973 5397

W

Av e

Have a c’s FREE 7921bright and E: linda.otter@quinovic-warkworth.co.nz. ing anoffer! ou’re experienced happy Newinvestor, Whether you are just starting out, or e just starting out, Quinovic’s an experienced investor, Quinovic’s investor, you’re an experienced Year. Merry Whether proven Care and Return systems or if you’re just starting out, can Quinovic’s re and Return systems can give you the edge to make renting onfident in our Christmas! he edge to make it a real proven Care and Return systems can

uit

iD

riv

e

• Tyres  • Batteries • Shocks  • Suspension • Mechanical Parts • Wheel Alignments   7843 151Check 9895 FREEA/H Tyre021 Safety • Lift Kits P 09 425   E firewarkworth@orcon.net.nz • Mag Wheels   FREE Battery Check Ha

Matakana Road intersects with Anderson and Rosemont Roads – however, Auckland Transport budget cuts have stalled the project for now. Last month’s enquire!

Rodney Local Board meeting heard that AT had completed detailed design for thelast new safety feature, but installation was on hold until available budgets could s won’t long. be confirmed.

hit

SH1

FRANCHISE OWNER New metal crash barriers are due to be installed on the sweeping bend where

d

oa

rR

e tak

www.bridgestone.co.nz Pop into our store for more details and a free quote, (conditions apply).

your property a real success. marketEnquire about renting give you the edge to make it a real your property and c’s FREE rties that you will be eligible success. Leave it to the experts, leave for 12 months free ide FREE ing offer! with us. inspections. the experts, leave it withLeave us. it toitthe experts, leave it with us. We do tyre servicing for lease and rental cars. tising for your Whether you’re an experienced investor,

Quinovic TTER in our onfident

Everything managed for you!

E OWNER market

Call us now! rties that enquire!

022 697 7921 FREE side won’t last long. tising for your

*Offer valid for any management agreement signed before the 31 December 2020.

Terms and conditions apply.

Linda Otter BRIDGESTONE orFRANCHISE if you’re just starting out, Quinovic’s OWNER LINDA OTTER QUINOVIC WARKWORTH proven Care and Return systems can give you the edge to make it a real Warkworth.

PO Box 330, success.

Warkworth 0941

FRANCHISE OWNER Shop 1, 20 Neville Street,

M: 022 697 7921 T: (09) 973 5397 Leave it to the experts, leave E: linda.otter@quinovic-warkworth.co.nz

it with us.

WARKWORTH

09 425 7843

40 Whitaker Road, Warkworth Next to Mobil Petrol Station A/H 021 151 9895 E firewarkworth@orcon.net.nz

www.bridgestone.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

LINDA OTTER QUINOVIC WARKWORTH

60 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

LIVE IT, LOVE IT, SELL IT LIVE IT, LOVE IT, RENT IT 09 425 8742 WARKWORTH—PUHOI—SANDSPIT—MAHURANGI—WELLSFORD—OMAHA— LEIGH—SNELLS BEACH—ALGIES BAY—MARTINS BAY—SCOTTS LANDING— TAWHARANUI—PAKIRI—KAIPARA FLATS—WHANGATEAU—MATAKANA

TRUST US

WE ACHIEVE MORE

Barfoot & Thompson sells more property than any other agency in the Auckland region

OUR MARKET SHARE Across all prices categories

EXPERIENCE “REMARKABLE” It doesn’t cost more to have the best! 

FREE AUCTION—Rooms, On-site and LIVE



FREE SOCIAL MEDIA VIDEO



FREE VIRTUAL TOUR VIDEO PACKAGE

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

CALL US NOW & VISIT OUR EXPERIENCE ZONE WARKWORTH

Support local

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 61

TRADE & SERVICE DIRECTORY ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE ONLY $61+GST* PER INSERTION

Phone 425 9068 for more information or email your advertisement to design@localmatters.co.nz *for a three insertion contract.

FURNITURE | ACCOUNTING | APPLIANCE SERVICES | ARCHITECTS | AUTOMOTIVE | CHEF | CIVIL ENGINEERING | CHEF | COFFEE

Know

your local tradies

Clipper Outdoor Furniture, Dot and Grant Fowler What does your company specialise in?

We make kwila outdoor furniture in Silverdale.

We also supply umbrellas in a wide colour range of long-lasting acrylic canvas.

How do you ensure your company stands out from the crowd?

We make each piece to order, so you can have whatever size you want, in whatever colour canvas. Our furniture is made with stainless fastenings and two-pot marine epoxy glues, and the kwila we use is a durable outdoor timber, so many people have had 20 years, or more, of use from our furniture.

What skill sets do you and your staff bring to the industry which makes your company a good choice?

Clipper Outdoor Furniture has been running since 1987, and we have owned the business for 10 years now. We have long experience in what we do, and are always

OUTDOOR FURNITURE Tables to order Chairs • Swingseats Benches • Umbrellas New Zealand made quality built to last 25 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Silverdale (next to BP) Ph 09 426 9660 • em clipper.furniture@xtra.co.nz www.clipperfurniture.co.nz

looking for ways to add to what we offer.

Callaghan Appliance Servicing Ltd

What is it about this job that you find inspirational and/or motivating?

Creating something that wasn’t there before, and knowing it will have a long and useful life.

Now servicing Warkworth and Snells Beach Areas Most makes and models 35 yrs experience

What is your favourite tool or service and why? We all like the bandsaw – it’s fun!

Phone: 09 425 0563 • Mobile: 021 987 616

WRIGHT DESIGN L.B.P 117345 ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER - N.Z.C.A.D brianwright@xtra.co.nz AUTOMOTIVE

3 JOHN SINCLAIR AVENUE, WELLSFORD 0900

AUTOELECTRICAL

EUROPEAN CAR SPECIALISTS BATTERIES | DIAGNOSTICS

09 423 8092 W.D.S.

&

09 422 3222

WRIGHT DESIGN 021 276 7389

27 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth www.strautomotive.co.nz

L.B.P 117.345

Andre the Chef PER S ON AL/PRI VAT E CHEF

Have you thought of having your own chef to make whatever food you wanted but didn’t know where to find one? Well you have now.

• prepare your meals for a whole week • create meals to any dietary requirements • bake your favourite cakes, cookies and desserts • cater for any type of in-house event Call Andre on 027 359 6820. 20 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

CAPSULES COMPATIBLE WITH NESPRESSO® MACHINES

· · · · ·

Geotechnical Structural Roading, Stormwater, Wastewater Resource Consents Building Consents

Structural, Civil and Geotechnical Consulting Engineers

P: 09 425 9422 • warkworth@haighworkman.co.nz www.haighworkman.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

BUY LOCAL AT WARKWORTH BUTCHERY

.co.nz

0274 809 507 • www.coffeecapsules2u.co.nz

Support local

62 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020 CONSTRUCTION | CONTRACTORS | ELECTRICIAN | FARM & SUPPLIES | FURNITURE | GLAZIERS | HANDYMAN | HOUSE REMOVALS | JOINERY | LANDSCAPING & SUPPLIES

Over 30 years experience Quotes given

New Zealand Certified Builders Association

NZ CB

Ryan Bridgens 021 560 889 info@bridgens.nz www.bridgens.nz

DIGGER

Specialists in residential construction

Concrete Driveways

SERVICES

• Extensions • Renovations • Bathroom Makeovers • Pergolas • Decks • Small jobs • Equestrian Arenas and Stables

• Farm Dams & Drainage • House Sites • Driveways • Pole Drilling • Mulching • Bulldozer & Scoop Services • Transport up to 18 Tonne • Truck Hire • Metal Supply

021 085 12024 | mcc_enquiries@xtra.co.nz

Phone Wayne 021 953 527

MICK BERGER CONTRACTORS

NICK OXBOROUGH CONTRACTING

Phone: 09 422 0688 • Mobile: 0274 930 806

50 years experience

For drilling, trenching, driveways, housecuts, lawns, water tank installation, general digger work, incl animal burials, small truck for metal and topsoil deliveries.

021 829 484

Ian D’Ath 0800 QUOTME

NEED TO UPGRADE TO NEW LED LIGHT FITTINGS?

A E Inger Electrical

ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE & INSTALLATION

We supply and install quality NZ sourced LED light fittings at trade prices

We cover: all aspects of electrical work for farm, housing and industry.

We cover: Maungaturoto, Kaiwaka, Mangawhai, Wellsford, Port Albert, and Warkworth areas.

We offer: 24 hr cover, seven days.

GOOD RATES

Located in Kaipara Flats

Phone Peter Botherway, your local LED lighting specialist

Alwyn Inger - Registered Electrician | alwyninger@hotmail.com

20 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth 09 425 8678 • 021 952 077 wwglassandglazing@xtra.co.nz

Farm & Lifestyle Centre 2-4 Morrison Drive Warkworth

09 425 7754

09 422 3170 | 021 166 0445 renewelectrical@xtra.co.nz www.renewelectrical.co.nz

www.farmandlifestyle.co.nz info@farmandlifestyle.co.nz

Wellsford

Domestic and

Glazing arkworth Commercial Glass Showers Splash Backs lass & Mirrors • Cat Doors lazing WindscreenandReplacement Chip Repair

Nick Oxborough

3.5 Tonne Digger and Small Truck Work noxboroughcontracting@gmail.com

FARMYARD • BACKYARD • PET SUPPLIES • STOCK FOOD • WATER TANKS • WORK GEAR AND MORE...

All fittings fully guaranteed | Discounts for house lots

09 423 7003 | 021 423 735

WG

Dams ● Winching ● Bulldozing ● Driveways House Sites ● Landscaping ● Earthmoving ● Sub Divisions

ALUMINIUM & GLASS GLASS & ALUMINIUM

FOR ALL YOUR GLASS, GLAZING, AND ALUMINIUM NEEDS

53 Station Road, Wellsford • Phone (09) 423 7358 Email: wellsfordglass@xtra.co.nz

WE BUY HOUSES FOR REMOVAL 1 STOP SHOP FOR HANDYMAN SERVICES Peter 021 912 805 tickidiboo@orcon.net.nz

Local and Reliable We specialise in: • Vantage Aluminium Joinery • APL | Architectural Series • Metro Series

09 425 7510

7 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth

sales@compositejoinery.co.nz • www.compositejoinery.co.nz

Building Maintenance Repairs Cleaning

Call Ian on 021 639 562 www.jrhc.co.nz

We relocate houses, we buy houses, we sell houses.

Beautiful Landscapes Start Here Imagine | Transform | Enjoy

Retaining Walls • Decks • Pergolas • Fencing • Concreting • Custom Buildings • Planting Services LBP with 35 + years experience delivering excellence for customers who demand perfection

MATAKANA LANDSCAPES

021 085 12024 | matakanalandscapes@gmail.com Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

• Retaining Walls/Decks • Fences • Paving/Concreting • Planting • 1.7 tonne digger and operator hire Ph Jeff - 021 368 552 | warkworthlandscaping@gmail.com www.warkworthlandscaping.co.nz

Support local

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 63 LANDSCAPING & SUPPLIES | LAWYERS | LOCKSMITH | MOVING & STORAGE | PAINTING | PLUMBING | PROPERTY MANAGEMENT |SECURITY

We dig weekends.

Topsoil • Compost & Garden Mix • Lawn Mix Grass Seed • Bark • Pebbles • Stones • Sand Drainage • Metal • Fertilisers and much more!

FREE LOAN TRAILERS • HOME DELIVERIES 7 DAYS 09 425 9780 • 25-31 Morrison Drive, Warkworth

www.centrallandscapes.co.nz

WE CAN •Sand•Metal•Shell•Pebble•Scoria •Mulch•Garden Mix•Topsoil•Compost

DELIVER! •Tirau Gold•Pine Chip•Cambian Bark

183 SANDSPIT RD, WARKWORTH • OPEN 7 DAYS! Mon-Fri: 7am-5pm Sat: 7am-4pm Sun: 9am-3pm

Providing legal advice and services to local families and businesses in the Rodney district.

MASON CONTAINERS LIMITED HIRE CONTAINER ON YOUR SITE OR OURS

Ph. 09 969 0126

0800 833 323 Visit us at 11 Sanderson Road, Warkworth www.masoncontainers.co.nz

FOR HIRE & FOR SALE

CraigthePainter

Wynyard Wood MM Trades & Services 70.5x88.4.indd 1

24/11/20 4:26 PM

Since 1997

• Residential Specialists • Interior | Exterior • Plus Stopping & Skim Plastering

Painting and Decorating New builds • Re-paints • Re-stains • Roofs • Commercial • Water blasting

021-858 524 | 09-423 After 8521 Hours

Ph: Luke 021 507 463 luke.raphaella@gmail.com

Email: craigthepainter@xtra.co.nz

& DRAINLAYING

Helping you with plumbing, drainlaying, jet machine & drain camera tplumber@xtra.co.nz

021 102 4561

Exterior/Interior/Roofs/Staining • Repaints & restoration • Interior Lockwood home painting • Cedar restoration • Villa and Bungalow • Roof Coatings • Plastering repairs • Furniture and more Husband & Wife team • harley.mcvay@xtra.co.nz

Harley 021 0220 8727

TRIED – TESTED – TRUSTED

Cameron Carlaw P O Box 444, Warkworth 0941 gas@northerngas.co.nz

Ph: 09 422 2376 M: 027 468 4695

GAS SERVICES I HOT WATER I PLUMBING MAINTENANCE www.northerngas.co.nz

Serving and Protecting our Community for over 15 Years

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL Your LOCAL Community Newspaper

A great team you can trust

For a fresh approach in Property Management, with proven results.

Serving Puhoi to Ruakaka.

Sam 021 1966 391 / Shona 021 539 391 rentalsitn@bayleys.co.nz

w o H do your customers find you?

Enhance your online profile at

www.localmatters.co.nz/directory/1_business.html

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

• New Alarms - Design, Install & Service • CCTV - Design, Install & Service • Panic Alarms • Fire Alarm Systems • Access Control Systems • Alarm Monitoring • Rapid Response 24/7 • Premise Patrols • Lockup Checks

FOR ALL YOUR SECURITY NEEDS! Contact Insite for your

FREE SECURITY appraisal.

0800 66 24 24 www.insitesecurity.co.nz

127

Support local

64 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020 SHUTTLES | TV AERIAL/DIGITAL | WATER

LIBERTY SHUTTLES TOURS NZ & AIRPORT DIRECT • Events - golf, fishing and more • Other options on request • Discount for group bookings (owner operator) 0800 99 55 11 | 09 420 5366 or 021 447 455 libertyshuttles@gmail.com | libertyshuttles.co.nz

Your LOCAL Community Newspaper

w o H do your customers find you?

TV Satellite Audio Systems HOME SOLUTIONS

Installation & Repairs

Neale Stevens

We install:

Digital Freeview Satellite CONSULTING & INSTALLATION

TV • FM Aerials • Tuning Additional TV Outlets Phone David Redding 09 422 7227 or 0274 585 457

Data / Wifi

021 247 8324 Jordan@hitech.nz

Call Steve 027 478 7427

09 431 2211

We Service All Leading Brands! www.aquafilter.co.nz

31 Woodcocks Rd, Warkworth 09 425 9100 splashwater@xtra.co.nz

mobile: 027 556 6111

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

FOR SALE RAWLEIGH Products. Ph Pat 09 423 7023

HOME MAINTENANCE & IMPROVEMENT WATER FILTERS ‑ Underbench, Whole house, UV & water spotting, Work Guaranteed. Ph Steve 021 278 7427 steve@aquafilterrodney.co.nz

Sudoku

Solution

HOME MAINTENANCE & IMPROVEMENT

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

COLLINS ELECTRONICS HAVE YOU LOST PRIME? 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 WATER PUMPS ‑ No water? Old cast iron pump? Sales Service & Installation.

Work Guaranteed. Ph Steve 021 278 7427 steve@aquafilterrodney.co.nz WINDOW CLEANING/HOUSEWASH/ GUTTER CLEANING Local professional service. Ph Pat 022‑646‑5849.

HORSE TRUCKS & FLOATS REID EQUESTRIAN ENGINEERING, Wellsford. Float rebuilds, horse truck conversions, etc. Dog kennels made to measure. Quality work. Ph Ron 423 9666

localmatters.co.nz

The deadline for classified advertising for our January 13 paper is January 6. Send classified advertising enquiries to design@localmatters.co.nz

steve@aquafilter.co.nz

Pumps & Filters Water Treatment Spa & Pool Shop Water Testing Valet Service Water Blasters Tanks & Sprayers 24 Hour Mobile & Workshop Service

0800 747 928

MAINTENANCE Grading, rolling & metalling for rural Driveways. No job too BIG or small. Ph Trevor 021 0225 5606

FM Aerial

Rodney Sales & Service 09 425 6080

sales@absoluteconcrete.co.nz

Household Water Deliveries

DRIVEWAYS

TV Mounting

• Water Filters • UV Sterilisers • Reverse Osmosis • Water Coolers • Whole House • Water Pumps • Tanks • Rain Harvesting • Pre-Tank Filters

Moosome Concrete Troughs!

Enhance your online profile at

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Automation

ABSOLUTE CONCRETE

www.localmatters.co.nz/directory/1_business.html

A SMART REPAIR Service for F&P smartdrive washers, F&P/Simpson dryers. Prompt service 021 168 7349.

Multi-Room Setup

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

Advertise your classifieds and church notices here for only

$4.55 inc GST per line or $11.60 per/cm inc GST for boxed adverts.

PUBLIC NOTICES

2021 RODNEY HEALTH CHARITABLE TRUST CALENDARS $12 Available from Mahurangi Matters, 17 Neville Street, Warkworth.

Supported by Mahurangi Matters

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

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Cancer Support Warkworth & Wellsford group

We meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the Tui House Hospice, 32 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth at 10am.

Friendly support from members Guest speakers Enjoy morning tea or coffee with us Contact: Sue McLeod 425 4994 or 021 649 081 Susan Tomas 423 8424 Supported by Mahurangi Matters

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in the Warkworth area:

Warkworth Fellowship Monday 07:30pm, Warkworth Primary School Teachers Lounge, 34A Hill 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 Supported by Mahurangi Matters

Support local

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 65

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Advertise your classifieds and church notices here for only

$4.55 inc GST per line or $11.60 per/cm inc GST for boxed adverts.

Christmas Church Notices

SITUATIONS VACANT For an attractive lifestyle property, near Warkworth. Private accommodation on property, in return for regular help with general maintenance, mowing, gardening, weed spraying etc.

Suit practical, possible semi retired, fit people/couple. Some paid work is also available if wanted.

Phone 027 281 1504.

CLEANER WANTED Looking for a cheerful, honest cleaner for a private residence in Rustybrook Road, Wellsford. Light housework 2-3 hours per fortnight. More hours from time-to-time if available. Text name & hourly rate to 021 1491 372.

Sudoku

VOLUNTEERS WANTED TO BE TRAINED AS BUDGET ADVISERS

Can you spare up to 4hrs a week?

If you have a good head for figures and you would like to assist people in the Warkworth/Wellsford/Mangawhai area with budgeting advice, we would like to hear from you.

Full training provided and costs reimbursed. Applicants must have own reliable transport.

For more details phone the Warkworth/Wellsford Budget Service 423 7123

Christ Church Warkworth 43 Percy Street

Christingle Service for kids 5pm, Christmas Eve Candlelight Mass for the whole family 9.30pm, Christmas Eve Christmas Day Holy Communion 9am, Christmas Day

St Leonard's Matakana 24 Matakana Valley Road

Candlelight Mass for the whole family 9.30pm, Christmas Eve Christmas Day Holy Communion 9.30am, Christmas Day 12 Hauraki Road

the numbers game

8 6 5 61 8 4 1 4 1 2 5 67 4 7 97 6 5 3 7 2 3 9 82 5 1 7 8 9 2 93 5 8 4 17

EASY MEDIUM

Anglican Parish Christmas Services

St Michael & All Angels' Leigh

7 2 3 8 6

2 5 3 6 1

Mangawhai Mission District Mangawhai Mission District Mangawhai District Anglican ChurchMission Christmas Services Anglican Church Church Christmas Anglican ChristmasServices Services

CHRISTMAS SERVICES 2020 CHRISTMAS SERVICES 2020 CHRISTMAS SERVICES 2020 CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS St Michael’s,EVE Hakaru CHRISTMAS EVE

Mangawhai Mission Distric Anglican Church Christmas Ser

EveHakaru Carol Service St Michael’s, StChristmas Michael’s, Hakaru

Thursday 24 December 7.00 pm

Christmas Eve Carol Service Christmas Eve Carol Service Thursday 24 December 7.00 pm

CHRISTMAS SERVICES 20

Thursday 24 December 7.00pm

CHRISTMAS EVE

Midnight Christmas Communion St Michael’s, Hakaru Christ the King ChurchChristmas Eve Carol Service Midnight Christmas Communion Thursday 24 December 7.00 pm Mangawhai Christ the King Church Thursday 24 December 11.00 pm Midnight Christmas Communion Mangawhai Midnight Christmas Commun

ChristThursday the King24 Church, Mangawhai December 11.00 pm Christ the King Church Mangawhai Thursday 24 December 11.00pm Thursday 24 December 11.00 CHRISTMAS DAY Family Communion

CHRISTMAS DAY

CHRISTMAS

CHRISTMAS DAY

Family Christ the Communion King Church Mangawhai 9.00 am Christ the King Church Paul’s, Kaiwaka Mangawhai 9.00 9.00 am am St Paul’s, Kaiwaka St 9.00am

Family Communion

Family Commu

Christ the King Chu Mangawhai 9.0

St Paul’s, Kaiwaka

Christ the King Church, Mangawhai St Paul’s, Kaiwaka 9.00am 9.00 am

   

You are all very welcome!

www.mangawhaianglican.org.nz

www.mangawhaianglican.org.nz

Phone 431 4122

 

www.mangawhaianglican.org.nz | Phone 4314122 4122 www.mangawhaianglican.org.nz Phone 431

Christmas Day Holy Communion 9.30am, Christmas Day

St Alban's Kaipara Flats 19 Old Woodcocks Road

Christmas Eve Carol Service 7pm, Christmas Eve

Phone 09 425 8054 www.warkworthanglican.nz

Christmas Eve Carols

6pm & 8pm, St Andrews Matakana Country Park.

7pm, Mahurangi Presbyterian Warkworth

Christmas Day Service

9.30am, Mahurangi Presbyterian Warkworth

Check church website www.mahu.org.nz for details of December services & activities.

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

CATHOLIC CHURCH

Holy Name Catholic Church 6 Alnwick Street, Warkworth Sts Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Puhoi 83 Puhoi Road, Puhoi 425 8545 • www.holyname.org.nz www.puzzles.ca

CARETAKER

SOLUTION SOLUTION Trades page page 647

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

The Mahurangi Matters is subject to the principles of the New Zealand Media Council. Please contact us if you have any concerns about any editorial content published in this paper. If we are unable to address your concerns to your satisfaction, you can file a complaint with the NZ Media Council. PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or presscouncil.org.nz

Proud to have supplied the Kitchens & Joinery for Builders Proud supplied the Joinery Proud to to have haveHaycock supplied Construction the Kitchens Kitchens & & Brackenridge Joinery for for Haycock Construction & Brackenridge Builders Construction Brackenridge Builders & Joinery 'We do it& Proud toKitchens haveHaycock supplied the Kitchens &all' Joinery for Kitchens & Joinery 'We do it all' Haycock Construction & Brackenridge Builders Kitchens & Joinery 'We do it all' Phone. 09 422 7804 | Email. sales@matakanakitchens.co.nz Kitchens & Joinery 'We do it all' 0985 Phone.

7804 | sales@matakanakitchens.co.nz Matakana Valley Road, Matakana Phone. 09 0950422 422 7804 | Email.

Email. sales@matakanakitchens.co.nz From 50 Matakana Valley Road, Matakana Matakana Valley sales@matakanakitchens.co.nz Road, Matakana 0985 0985 Phone. 0950422 7804 | Email.

50 Matakana Valley Road, Matakana 0985

SUNDAY MASS TIMES 2020 Saturday 19th – Warkworth 6pm Sunday 20th December Puhoi 8.30am – Warkworth 10.30am CHRISTMAS CAROLS 2020 Thursday 24th December Warkworth 6.00pm – Puhoi 8.30pm

THE MAHURANGI METHODIST PARISH COMMUNITY Wish you a joyful, peace-filled Christmas in 2020 and New Year in 2021.

We invite you to join us at any Of our Christmas or New Year worship services of Celebration and Reflection.

20 December Carol Services

9am Snells Beach Community Church, 10.30am Warkworth Methodist Church

Christmas Eve Service

CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES 2020

8pm Warkworth Methodist Church

Thursday 24th Dec – Christmas Eve Warkworth 6.30pm – Puhoi 9pm Warkworth Evening Mass 11.30pm Friday 25th Dec – Christmas Day Warkworth 10.30am There is NO MASS at Puhoi on Christmas Day.

Sunday services will continue as normal at Snells Beach (9am) and Warkworth (10.30am)

25 December: Christmas Day service

9am Snells Beach Community Church

For further information contact Parish Office - Phone 425 8660 or Minister - Phone 021 103 7150

design to manufacture and installation in one easy step.

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Proud to have supplied the Kitchens & Joinery for Builders Proud to haveHaycock supplied Construction the Kitchens & & Brackenridge Joinery for

Sunday Services 9am & 10.30am

Phone

66 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

If you are a parent who attended Senior Prize Giving, or a member of the community who was invited to my more formal farewell, you will now know, if you didn’t already, what an amazing team I have had the privilege of working alongside in my 18 years as Principal of Mahurangi College.

When I reflect on my time at Mahurangi, I can not separate my experiences from the people who stood next to me during them, nor from the students in which they were all about. So as I write my last newsletter for both the year, and as Principal of Mahurangi College, my focus remains with them.

My focus remains on what our amazing people at our amazing place have been able to achieve. Firstly, congratulations to all Senior Prize Giving award and scholarship recipients. Dux went to our Head Boy Robbie Ennis and Proxime Accessit to Jowan Nute.

Both Robbie Ennis and Finn Massey won $35,000 University Scholarships. Many thanks to local businesses and sponsors for supporting our students. Year 12 and 13 award winners can be viewed on our website. For those who are starting a new journey next year, I wish you all the very best.

I look forward to keeping in touch with you and your families in the years ahead.

3 Promotion. They designed and created an affordable surfboard fin in various colours.

Their gorilla marketing video was a huge hit.

leaderboard for Open Bike Gymkhana, Open Cart Gymkhana and Report. Many thanks to teacher Mr Lenihan for his commitment, enthusiasm and dedication to our place.

After being postponed twice, our Senior School Ball was held at the Hilton on 7 November. For both students and staff, it was an opportunity to celebrate the year with the people that helped us get through it. Many thanks to those who worked hard behind the scenes to bring together a night to remember.

Year 12 and 13 students in our Construction Academy have been building a tiny home, which is now being auctioned to the public

by Bayleys. Students were involved in every aspect of the process. The tiny home goes to auction on 17 December. Many thanks to teacher Hugo Vaughan for his supporting our students in real world learning. Many thanks also to our community for supporting the project. Specifications and auction details can be viewed at www.bayleys.co.nz/1202330.

This year’s regional EVolocity electric vehicle competition was held at RNZAF Whenuapai Base during November. Our teams did incredibly well, winning all open events and University of Auckland awards. Last week the 2020 National winners were announced, with three of our teams topping the National

Our Year 13 Business students have had some fantastic outcomes with Young Enterprise.

Over the year, students competed in five challenges, which were judged at a regional level. ‘Touch Cosmetics’ won two awards for Market Validation and Communication.

The team developed a sustainable veganfriendly lip balm made with locally sourced fruit that would have otherwise been discarded. ‘Laceration Fins’, won Challenge

Issue 06 2020

MAHUHUKITERANGI CHALLENGING. EXCELLING. BELONGING. OUR PLACE

The pontoon for the river restoration project is now in place to allow for easy access for students next year. Our trapping project team recently celebrated eradicating 50 rats.

Today, as I write, the advertisement for the auction of our Tiny Home went live; I

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

signed off on our senior Mixed Touch Team travelling to the Nationals; I met again with our new principal, Tony Giles, as part of his induction programme; I was able to confirm that we are now fully staffed for 2021 with 6 new teachers; and had a debrief on our successful Year 9 Outdoor Education camp in the Waitawhetu Valley - and I feel great satisfaction, not for a job well done, but for the people who have made the job something I will always feel proud about. It has been a huge honour and privilege to serve the students and staff of Mahurangi College.

Thank you all for your support.

The school year has now finished, giving us opportunity to refresh and enjoy time together – a gift we have come to truly appreciate this year. I look forward to seeing you within our community over the summer, and into the years ahead. Aim high but always be kind.

David Macleod - PRINCIPAL

MAHURANGI.SCHOOL.NZ

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 67

Congratulations to all our senior award and scholarship winners.

Visit our website to view the accomplishments our seniors have achieved this year in the fields of sport, the arts, culture and academics. Many thanks to our community and local businesses for your ongoing support of our place and our people.

FINN MASSEY

ACHIEVER OF THE MONTH Academic Blue for Excellence L2 NCEA Academic Blue for Excellence L1 NCEA 2020 Cultural Prefect Member of Boys 2XI Football Member of Stage Band Pictured with Marius Muller Operations Manager Mitre 10 Mega Warkworth

Proudly Supporting Mahurangi College

Cnr Woodcocks Rd & Mansel Drive WARKWORTH Phone 425 8119

MAHUHUKITERANGI CHALLENGING. EXCELLING. BELONGING. OUR PLACE

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

MAHURANGI.SCHOOL.NZ

localsport

68 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

The Kowhai swimmers.

Swimmers going strong

The idea for a match was struck at a community engagement day. Pictured is the NX2 side.

NX2 prevails over Puhoi in invitational The NX2 motorway crew swapped their work boots for footie boots last month for an invitational match against the Puhoi Soccer Club.

Noticing the large number of Spanish staff on the project, the Puhoi club took the opportunity to suggest a competitive match.

The NX2 Group is a joint venture between Fletcher Construction and Spanish construction firm Acciona Infrastructure, which has brought expats in for the project.

The NX2 team was made up of engineers, surveyors, environmental advisors and interns, while Puhoi sourced players across different division teams in the club.

NX2 team captain and pavements section manager

Jordan Watson said it was a close match, with both sides taking the game seriously.

NX2 scored the first goal with a header at close range. Puhoi quickly evened the score with a converted penalty.

Some fancy footwork saw NX2 score their second goal, but Puhoi squeezed in an equaliser with 10 minutes to go.

“Perhaps taking advantage of some tired legs or perhaps channelling the energy of the late Diego Maradona, a wonderful through ball resulted in a chance for NX2 that just had to be taken. And, it was, for a final score of 3-2 to NX2,” Watson says.

He says both teams are looking forward to meeting on the pitch again next year.

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

Kowhai Swimming Club coach Denise Guy says the club is going from strength to strength in the wake of its annual championships and prizegiving.

“Swimming was dramatically affected by Covid-19, but our swimmers did their best and took advantage of competing whenever they found a swim meet.”

Guy says the club is rapidly expanding.

“From February 2021, there are a few spaces available in our junior sessions on Tuesdays or in our intermediate sessions on Thursdays, but they are filling fast,” she says.

To find out more, email kowhaiswimming@gmail.com.

Kowhai Swimmers club championships results: McRae Cup – Junior Boys 10/U Champion 2020 – Finn Muliaumasealii • Christy Cup – Junior Girls 10/U Champion 2020 – Sienna Morrison • Grace Farm Park Cup – Intermediate Girls Champion 2020 – Siina Cooke • Spencer Cup – Intermediate Boys Champion 2020 – Ryan Hewertson • MacDonald Cup – Senior Girls Champion 2020 – Caroline Gilpin • Ewing Family Cup – Senior Boys 2020 – Aaron Skipper, 2nd – Toby Hewertson • Coaches Cup – Girls – Siina Cooke • Coaches Cup – Boys – Thomas Guy • Ray White most improved junior – Ruby Taylor & Oliver Gipps • Presidents Trophy for most improved senior – Miriama Iversen • Kowhai Spirit – Ultimate sportsmanship - Jazmin Mathers • Ray White cup – best sportsmanship Boys - Finn Muliaumasealii • Wallace Supplies cup sportsmanship Girls – Ava Cranwell • Fayerman Cup – Swimmer of the Year 2020 – Caroline Gilpin

localsport

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 69

TYREPOWER WARKWORTH PROUD SPONSORS OF

SCOREBOARD SUPPORTING LOCAL SPORT

A roundup of sports activities and events in the district Family tag tournament at Tomarata The Northland Stingrays is hosting the annual Manning Smith Memorial Cup at the Tomarata Tag grounds on Saturday, February 13. Team entries should be submitted as soon as possible as places are limited. Each team must have a minimum of 16 players, including four adult men, four adult women, four U14 girls and four U14 boys. Entry is $160. Contact northlandstingraystag@gmail.com.

From left, Jackie Ingham, Alayna Cox and Heather Thomas

Wellsford claims Rosebowl The Wellsford Golf Club hosted top teams from all over Northland last month for the 2020 Women’s Champion of Champions tournament, concurrently held with the Iris Farrel Rosebowl.

Wellsford’s Jackie Ingham, Alayna Cox and Heather Thomas did the club proud, winning the Rosebowl, which is a stableford gross competition.

“If a player strokes more than one above par, they have to pick up their ball and move to the next green without points, so it is a highly competitive standard of play,” women’s president Marie Rambaud says.

Team member Alayna Cox plays with a handicap of three and is a member of

the Northland regional representative team.

The Wellsford women’s team won with 117 points, beating Ngunguru on 108 and Whangaroa on 105.

Meanwhile, the Champion of Champions event also produced some excellent golf.

The silver tier winner, Samantha Dangen, impressed crowds by achieving par on the first nine holes for a front nine score of 35 gross.

Wellsford’s Heather Thomas was runner-up in the bronze tier, with a total score of 95 gross.

There were 52 of Northland’s top women golfers at the competition.

Junior golf at Wellsford Coach Gareth Winslow is holding a junior golf programme at the Wellsford Golf Club each Thursday from 4pm to 5pm. Coach Winslow was the former China women’s national team head coach. Classes are $20 and open to players aged five and above.

Contact Gareth Winslow 021 2023 154, nexusgolfonline@gmail.com.

Matakana mixed open golf The Matakana Classic two-course mixed open is being held on the weekend of January 16 & 17 at the Omaha Beach Golf Club and the Warkworth Golf Club. There is a $10,000 prize pool with four divisions and gross, nett and stableford scoring. $100 entry. See warkworthgolfclub.co.nz.

Mangawhai Bowl Jam The 10th annual Mangawhai Bowl Jam will be held on Saturday, February 6. Divisions include U16s, women’s, open and masters. Registrations to themangawhaibowljam@ gmail.com or facebook.com/themangawhaibowljam.

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

2 Mill Lane, Warkworth 0910 283 3495 | 022 489 7477 (Ah) warkworth@tyrepower.net.nz www.tyrepower.co.nz

DELIVERING

MORE NG

E

Brand new fitness facility offering a great range of classes & brand new strength & cardio equipment Keep an eye out on our website & social media for updates.

HUGE discounted rates & no joining fee available prior to the opening!

(09) 423 6044 (09) 423 6044

WHAREHINE.NZ

MOBILE: 027 389 7079 EMAIL: KEEPFITMATAKANA@GMAIL.COM WEBSITE: WWW.KEEPFITMATAKANA.CO.NZ

WHAREHINE.NZ Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

localsport

70 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

Mahu College stuns tag rugby tourney Mahurangi College was a dark horse on the tag rugby scene this season, sending a team to the Tag Nationals for the first time.

The college assembled an under-12 girls team just months before the North Harbour zone intermediate tag tournament, earlier in the year, and won it on their first attempt.

This qualified them to attend the Auckland Champion of Champions event, but this was cancelled due to Covid-19.

Coach George Maginley has been coaching the girls in their lunch time on Mondays and Wednesdays.

After their stunning debut performance, coach Maginley was able to persuade NZ Tag to allow the team to attend Tag Nationals last weekend.

The team entered under the banner of Rodney District Sport, which is based in Millwater.

Maginley says the team played incredibly well, winning six out of seven games.

In their final match against Manukau Harbour,

Mahurangi held the lead at 2-1 until the last five minutes, when Manukau snatched a game-winning two-pointer.

Despite the loss, Mahurangi got gold on the points differential for the total competition.

NZ Tag has already granted the new Mahurangi team a wild card entry into the Tag Nationals competition for the next two years in an effort to encourage growth in the area.

Next year will be a big step up for the fledgling team as the under-13s competition is officially considered “competitive”.

Coach Maginley partly puts the success of the new team down to some of the players having had experience with Tomarata Tag. He says the new team fills a gap, as previously Warkworth players wanting to participate in Auckland Rugby League (ARL) tag competitions, had to sign up with Hibiscus Coast.

He is encouraging players wanting to get involved to

Mahurangi College U12s tag rugby team.

make contact and says trials for the under-13s team will be held next season.

Contact George Maginley nzconcrete@gmail.com

Got a sports story to tell? Let us know.

Email news@localmatters.co.nz Phone 425 9068

Record set at Jackman Classic

Charlie Wood, from Omaha Surf Lifesaving Club, set what is believed to be a new course record at the Jackman Waterman Classic this month.

Wood smashed out the 12km paddle from Waipu to Mangawhai Heads in just 63 minutes.

Organiser Don Baxter says historical records for the event are hazy, as it is considered a social competition, but club members cannot recall a better time.

“It has definitely set a benchmark,” Baxter says.

He adds an honourable mention should go to Omaha’s Chantelle

Maher, who was the first female on the day to complete the course on a paddleboard.

She took around two hours to complete it and was neck and neck with her father, Frank Maher.

Meanwhile, Omaha’s Claudia Stevenson completed the course on a surf ski.

Baxter says 12 surf lifeguards entered the competition this year.

The Jackman Waterman Classic is held annually in honour of Muriwai’s Dave Jackman, who was the first surfer to ride the infamous 15-foot swell at Queenscliff Bombora in Sydney on a

Want Your D House SOL Wed

Dec 16

Thu

Dec 17

Fri

Sat

Dec 18

The Jackman Waterman Classic had a good showing despite scheduling conflicts with Surf Lifesaving competitive events in Whangamata.

longboard in 1961.

Baxter says he is hoping to introduce a “Jackman junior” variation of the competition for under-13s in the

Don’t Delay call Mick Fay today!

021 544 769

RayWhite

Ray White SeaSea Watch Auckland Area Watch

Dec 19

Sun

Mon

Dec 20

Dec 21

New Year.

The course would run from the Mangawhai Tavern to Breakwater Bay, next to the surf club.

Tue

Dec 22

Wed

Dec 23

Thu

Dec 24

Fri

Dec 25

Sat

Dec 26

Sun

Dec 27

Mon

Dec 28

Tue

Wed

Dec 29

Dec 30

Thu

®

Fri

Dec 31

Jan 1

2:55am 0.3 3:45am 0.3 4:33am 0.4 5:21am 0.5 12:13am 3.1 1:01am 3.0 1:50am 2.9 2:41am 2.8 3:35am 2.7 4:32am 2.7 5:28am 2.7 6:21am 2.8 12:40am 0.9 1:25am 0.8 2:07am 0.7 2:49am 0.7 3:29am 0.6 9:24am 3.5 10:14am 3.5 11:04am 3.4 11:53am 3.3 6:08am 0.6 6:57am 0.8 7:49am 0.9 8:44am 1.0 9:43am 1.1 10:39am 1.1 11:32am 1.1 12:20pm 1.1 7:09am 2.8 7:53am 2.9 8:34am 3.0 9:15am 3.1 9:55am 3.2

Tide 3:21pm 0.4 4:13pm 0.5 5:04pm 0.5 5:55pm 0.6 12:42pm 3.2 1:31pm 3.1 2:21pm 3.0 3:12pm 2.9 4:03pm 2.8 4:54pm 2.8 5:44pm 2.8 6:33pm 2.8 1:05pm 1.0 1:48pm 1.0 2:29pm 0.9 3:12pm 0.8 3:55pm 0.8 7:20pm 2.8 8:06pm 2.9 8:50pm 2.9 9:33pm 3.0 10:17pm 3.0 6:45pm 0.7 7:36pm 0.8 8:26pm 0.9 9:18pm 0.9 10:10pm 1.0 11:02pm 1.0 11:52pm 0.9 Times 9:43pm 3.3 10:35pm 3.3 11:25pm 3.2 5:57am 8:36pm

Sun Fishing Guide Moon

5:58am 8:37pm

Best At

B

2:07am 2:38pm

5:58am 8:37pm

Best At

B

3:09am 3:38pm

5:59am 8:38pm

Best At

B

4:07am 4:34pm

5:59am 8:38pm

Best At

B

5:01am 5:26pm

5:59am 8:39pm

Best At

G

5:50am 6:13pm

6:00am 8:39pm

Best At

G

6:35am 6:57pm

6:00am 8:40pm

Best At

G

7:18am 7:39pm

6:01am 8:40pm

Best At

F

7:59am 8:19pm

6:02am 8:41pm

Best At

B

8:39am 8:59pm

6:02am 8:41pm

Best At

B

9:20am 9:41pm

6:03am 8:41pm

Best At

B

10:02am 10:24pm

6:04am 8:42pm

Best At

B

10:47am 11:10pm

6:04am 8:42pm

Best At

B

11:34am 11:59pm

6:05am 8:42pm

Best At

F

12:24pm

6:06am 8:42pm

Best At

G

12:50am 1:17pm

6:06am 8:43pm

Best At

G

1:44am 2:11pm

Best At

G

2:38am 3:05pm

First Full Quarter Moon Rise 7:00am Rise 8:04am Rise 9:09am Rise 10:14am Set 12:30am Set 1:01am Set 1:29am Set 1:54am Set 2:19am Set 2:44am Set 3:11am Set 3:41am Set 4:15am Set 4:55am Set 5:41am Set 6:34am Set 7:34am Set 10:15pm Set 11:08pm Set 11:53pm Rise 11:18am Rise 12:18pm Rise 1:16pm Rise 2:12pm Rise 3:08pm Rise 4:05pm Rise 5:02pm Rise 6:01pm Rise 7:00pm Rise 7:59pm Rise 8:55pm Rise 9:47pm Rise 10:33pm *Not for navigational purposes.

Mick Fay

G

Good Fishing

F

Fair Fishing

B

Not So Good

www.tidewiz.com

www.tidespy.com

www.ofu.co.nz

Graphic supplied by OceanFun Publishing Ltd.

Licensee Agent Snells Beach 021 544 769 E. mick.fay@raywhite.com W. mickfay.raywhite.com Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

localmatters.co.nz

December 16, 2020 Mahurangimatters 71

What’s on

BOMBAY 1L

See localmatters.co.nz/whats-on.html for a full list of upcoming events

December 17 18

18

18 18 19 19

20

21 23 24 25

30

2 2 3 3 9 17

JOHNNIE

BRAMBLES 700ml LEMON & GORDONS BLACK (limited stock) PINK 700ml 700ml

GRAND CHRISTMAS y p p a H OPENING! 35 49 as 49 hristJIMm CJOHNNIE BEAM LAPHROAIG $

Jameson 1L

Christmas Traditions shared morning tea, Warkworth Library, 10.30am. Bring a traditional festive treat. Free. Info: Katie Mitchell on 09 427 3920.

Night Market, Te Hana Te Ao Marama Marae, Te Hana, 4.308pm. Christmas gifts, toys, plants, flowers, boot sale, food, hangi. Open mic 6pm and carol singing. Free shuttle from Wellsford. Info: Linda 021 128 3244.

Keep Wellsford Beautiful free curry and movie night, War Memorial Park Wellsford, 7pm. All welcome, bring your own blankets. Info: facebook.com/keepwellsfordbeautiful (see story p47) Community Beach & Children’s Christmas Party, Matheson Bay Reserve, 4.30-7pm. Games, prizes, fire truck, Santa. BYO picnic and drinks.

Lax Lights, Lax Crescent, Leigh, 6.30pm. Christmas lights, music, food truck, sausage sizzle, Santa. Leigh Preschool fundraiser.

Maungaturoto Santa Parade & Christmas Festival, Main Street and Primary School, 4-7pm. Stalls, food, entertainment.

Christmas crafts at Mahurangi East Library, 21 Hamatana Road, Snells Beach, 10.30am-noon. Activities include making gingerbread, clay tree decorations and wax paper ornaments.

All welcome. (see brief p55) Kaukapakapa Village Market, 947 Kaipara Coast Highway, SH16, 8.30am-1pm. Coffee, food, produce, live music, face painting, Santa and more. Info & stall bookings: Sarah 0274 831 542 or sarah1@maxnet.co.nz Santa Claus visits Warkworth, Warkworth Wharf, 1pm. Santa Claus arrives on the “Little Jane” (see story p11) Late night Christmas shopping, Wellsford, 5-7pm (see story p46) Waipu Christmas Parade, 7pm. Prizegiving at Caledonian Park, 7.30pm. Info and registration: Marion Sampson on 432 1155 or marion@northpine.co.nz Community Christmas Lunch, Mahurangi East Community Hall, 11.30am. Free event with food, cookie decorating, live music, family fun and more. RSVP by 24 December. Info: Moana 021 0246 1732 or Katie 021 701 779.

Snells Beach Great Summer Art Exhibition opens, Mahurangi East Community Hall.

January 1

SMIRNOFF 1L,

Part of the largest Liquor Chain in NZ & BOMBAY GORDONS SICILIAN WALKER

Warkworth Rodeo, Warkworth Showgrounds, 11am. (see story p53) Mangawhai Domain Gala, 73 Moir Street Mangawhai, 9am3pm. Produce, food stalls, garden art, fashion and more. Info & stall booking: mangawhaigala@gmail.com or 022 509 1951.

Beach Ball, Leigh Sawmill Cafe, 8pm. Three bands – Daffodils, Soaked Oats and Marlin’s Dreaming – for the price of one (see story p47) Black Swamp Run, Mangawhai Domain, 9am (See story p45) Birds Beach fun day, Tapora, 1.30-4.30pm. Rounders match, tug of war, lolly scramble, sausage sizzle and Tapora caps for sale. Fundraiser for Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

Puhoi Annual Woodchopping Carnival, Puhoi Pub (see feature p41-43) Kaukapakapa Village Market, 947 Kaipara Coast Highway, SH16. 8.30am-1pm. Fresh coffee, food, local produce, live music, free face painting & more. Info & stall booking: Sarah 0274 831 542 or sarah1@maxnet.co.nz

List your event by emailing the details to online@localmatters.co.nz

Jim Beam bourbon 1750ml

.99

Martineau Brandy 1L Wild Moose Canadian Whisky 1L

$

Bombay Sapphire Gin 1L

.99

$

Russian Standard Vodka 1L

.99

Won’t be hard to Spot Teachers

Lindauer Special Reserve

Jack Daniels 1L

“BEST SPOT700ml WITHER DANIEL LONG WHITE FOR YOUR2 FOR 1.75L 10YO 700ml $42 HILLS LE.99 BRUN $ RANGE $ $ .99 $ .99 $ $ .99 57.99 44WALKER .99 32.99 $ $ 33.99 BLUE WHITES & 29BRUT 49320ml 13 FAVOURITE 20 Corbans 700ml ROSE RANGE Bots 10pk Speights Gold DROP” Monteith’s Summer Ale 12s Smirnoff Ice Double Black 7% 335ml Bottles White Steinlager Pure Steinlager Classic Chivas Regal 700ml

Medal, Waikato, Lion Red 24s

Label

6$ 249 .99

$

330ml 15s

$62 .99$32$.99 73 .99

.99

Black Heart / Cruiser 330ml 12s

KGB / Wild Moose 330ml 12s

330ml 18s

$13 .99

28 .99 $23

.99

Specials valid until 31 December 2011.

22 Part of the largest Liquor Chain in NZ $

24.99

$

$24 .99 NZ Pure 330ml

18.99

$

.99

Monday 7th December 2020 to STEINLAGER Sunday 13th CLASSIC December All specials may not be available in some stores. Specials only available at Liquor2020 Spot Stores detailed above. No Trade Sales.

$23 .99

$29 .99

$43.99

$23.99

$

10.99

330ml Bots 24s

LION RED, WAIKATO, SPEIGHTS 330ml Bots 24s

$39 .99

$36 .99

$47 .99

STEINLAGER ASAHI SUPER PURE & STELLA DRAFT ARTOIS 330ml 330ml Bots Bots 24s 12s

.99

Woodstock 8% 4pk

NZ pure Summer Ale 330ml

19

$

.99

21 LONG WHITE CODYS 7% 250ml JAMESON to Spot RANGE Cans 18s & Wont1Lbe &hardCHIVAS 320ml WOODSTOCK 5% 12YO 700ml Cans 10pk 330ml Bots 18s $

.99

Jim Beam Black 8% 330ml

21

$

$

Canterbury Cream

Whisky 1L

PERONI NASTRO AZZURRO 330ml Bots 18s

HEINEKEN 330ml Bots 15s

$31.99

$29.99

Part of the

EXPORT 33 KINGFISHER, 330ml Bots SOL & TIGER 24s CRYSTAL 330ml Bots 12s

$41.99

$19.99

CARLSBERG MONTEITHS DB DRAUGHT, SOMERSBY CANTERBURY MALIBU & 330ml Bots BATCH & CIDER EXPORT GOLD RANGE CRÈAM KAHLUA 1L 24s RANGE 330ml & EXTRA LOW 330ml Bots 700ml Incl. Salted Bots 12s CARB, TUI 12s Caramel 330ml Bots 24s

$39.99

$25.99

MALFY GIN SCAPEGRACE RANGE 700ml RANGE 700ml

$49.99

$34.99

$22.99

$13.99

$34.99

SEAGERS & IVANOV 1L

ABSOLUT 1L

APPLETON ESTATE SIGNATURE 1L

WILD TURKEY 1L

$32.99

$39.99

$54.99

$47.99

$74.99

JACK DANIEL’S JIM BEAM CHATELLE & THE OLD NO.7 1L & BLACK 1L & CANADIAN GLENLIVET WOODFORD MAKERS MARK CLUB 1L 12YO 700ml RESERVE DISTILLERS 700ml SELECT 700ml

$54.99

$46.99

$38.99

$59.99

CHIVAS 15YO 700ml

WOODSTOCK 7% 250ml Cans 12pk & CRUISER 5% 275ml Bots 12pk

$69.99

$21.99

JIM BEAM JACK DANIEL’S 4.8% GORDONS G&T KGB 7% BERG 5% SMIRNOFF GOLD & 330ml, NO SUGAR 7%, PINK & 250ml Cans 330ml GUARANA 7% CANADIAN 375ml & PART TIME LEMON 4% Range 250ml Cans 18pk CLUB DRY 7% RANGERS RANGE 6% (New) 250ml Cans 10pk 12pk 330ml Cans 6pk 330ml Cans 10pks Cans 12pk

$15.99

$24.99

$25.99

$29.99

$23.99

$26.99

DEUTZ MUMM STONELEIGH VILLA MARIA SQUEALINGSQUEALING PIG RIDE ON MARLMARL- WHITES, REDS PRIVATE BIN PIG PINOT NOIR & MARLBOROUGH BOROUGH & LIGHTER Excl.

RANGE PEPPERJACK BOROUGH CUVEE BRUT BRUT Pinot Noir & Excl. Pinot RANGE SAUVIGNON PRESTIGE Syrah Noir BLANC

$19.99

$29.99

$12.99

$12.99

$16.99

$19.99

WELLSFORD LIQUOR SPOT

133 RODNEY ST, WELLSFORD | 09 423 7913

Specials valid Monday, 7th December - Sunday, 27th December 2020. All specials may not be available in some stores. Specials only available at Liquor Centre Stores detailed above. No Trade Sales.

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters.

$12.99 Part of the

72 Mahurangimatters December 16, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

As well as being a Northland staple, Wright has played for the Blues and Maori All Blacks.

Kaye Mueller says ocean swimming is calming for the mind and great exercise for all ages.

Swimmer beats fear of the ocean Kaye Mueller, of Leigh, used to have panic attacks when she swam too far from shore, but now she is training for a competitive event and helping others to learn to swim in the ocean.

When Kaye began swimming around seven years ago, she was fearful of open water, but now it’s her “happy place”.

“There’s something that happens when you’re in the water. It’s a release of happy brain chemicals, which I call ‘endolphins’,” she says.

Kaye recently began hosting free ocean swimming lessons at Mathesons Bay on Friday mornings to help swimmers build their confidence in open water.

The Leigh Swimmers group has about 20 regulars ranging from a 90-year-old to a group of young mums. Kaye herself will be 60 next year.

She says the safety of Mathesons Bay provides a perfect place for an introduction to ocean swimming.

Slowly but surely swimmers are coaxed further out to sea as they grow in confidence.

Kaye also offers yoga classes before her swim classes,

which she calls ‘yogi fish.’

“It’s about controlling your breathing, feeling the senses and noticing the salt in the water.”

She says yoga breath work is a perfect pairing for swimmers and divers, allowing divers to hold their breath underwater for longer. It also helps prevent hyperventilation and panic attacks in the water.

“These skills translate into real life for whenever you are jumping in the deep end,” she says.

Kaye is getting ready for the Ocean Swim Series and will compete in four of the events.

Her first event will be a 3.8km swim at Takapuna Beach, followed by a swim to Bean Rock at Mission Bay, swimming the length of the Harbour Bridge and swimming Blue Lake in Rotorua.

Last week she went for a 3.6km swim, from Daniel’s Reef to Mathesons Bay, in preparation. For her, it is less about competitive swimming and more about sightseeing.

“I will be at the back with the conversational swimmers,” she says.

Wright in Maori ABs Wellsford’s Ross Wright played for the Maori All Blacks team that triumphed over the new Moana Pasifika team this month.

It is the third time that Wright has run on for the squad since giving up his lawnmowing business in 2018 to pursue his rugby career.

He has toured with the team to the United States and South America, and last year he was part of the “home and away” series with Fijj.

The Maori All Blacks versus Pasifka Moana clash was the team’s only scheduled match of the season.

In its post-match analysis, NZ Rugby credited Wright for contributing to tilt the match in the Maori All Black’s favour.

“Neither side could claim the ascendancy during the first half, but the second half immediately brought better results for the Māori,” NZ Rugby says.

“A string of penalties conceded by Moana Paskifa, including one from an outstanding scrum, where replacement props Ross Wright and Tamaiti Williams blew Moana Pasifika off the ball, allowed a try-scoring chance to emerge.”

The Maori All Blacks ultimately claimed a 28-21 win. The match was played at the FGM Stadium Waikato in Hamilton.

For a full range of family medical care, including A&M services in an integrated system 24 hours a day, across our region, including public holidays For further information and new enrolments, please contact any of our clinics

Snells Beach

145 Mahurangi East Road 09 425 6666 Open 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday

Mangawhai

4 Fagan Place 09 431 4128 Open 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday

Matakana

Maungaturoto

Wellsford

Paparoa

74 Matakana Valley Road 09 422 7737 Open 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday 220 Rodney Street (Cnr. SH1 & Matheson Rd) 09 423 8086 Open 8am-8pm, Daily

138 Hurndall Street 09 431 8576 Open 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday 1978 Paparoa Valley Road 09 431 7222 Open 8am-5pm, Tuesday & Thursday

We are closed Christmas Day

Warkworth

Accident & Urgent Medical Care HEALTH HUB

WARKWORTH

OPEN Daily 8am - 8pm 09 425 8585 77 Morrison Drive, Warkworth

Call 09 423 8086 for URGENT DOCTOR SERVICE - WELLSFORD