Hibiscus Matters_Issue 268_18 September 2019

localmatters.co.nz

September 18, 2019

Your locally-owned Community Newspaper FREE

Inside this issue

Election lift out guide

votersguide

Local Electio ns 20

19

Residen Kensington tial | Commercial Park | Lu xury & Lif estyle Bar Raise

rs | Deal

Makers

| Clients

for Life

September

18, 2019 | Hibis

cusmatters |

3s/20 Centra l Boulevard, 09 218 7989 Silverd | admin@ telosgroup.co ale, Auckland 0932 .nz | telosgr oup.co.nz Licensed Under the REAA

2008

for Waite mata District He alth Board

• Present Boa • Former Nati rd Member • Form er • Former Cha onal MP • Assistan Chairman Finance Committ t Speaker ir Wilson Hom e Trust • Loca House Representat ee ives l Businessman Support the

advertisers

pages 15 to 26 who suppo

rt Hibiscus Matte

rs

Orewa, 09

1 NEESON

Authorised by: B.Neeson , Flavell Dr,

VOTE BRIAN

421 1897

All candidate s were prov ided with four Candidates not featured questions. The order that did not resp ond to the candidates are listed questions prior was to our dead drawn at random. line.

Community marae Te Herenga Waka o Orewa welcomed hundreds of children and their caregivers for two special Maori Language Week powhiri last week. Pictured from left, are Charley Butler in the arms of her mother Julia being welcomed with a hongi by Daryn Hohepa of Te Herenga Waka o Ōrewa. (See story p6)

Community prepares as measles outbreak gains momentum

Kingsway College in Red Beach – the first, and so far only, local school with a confirmed case of measles to deal with, this week invited back students who had been quarantined at home for nine school days.

Kingsway’s quarantine began on September 3 when it was confirmed that one of its Year 9 students had

measles. Students were allowed back into the college on September 16.

The quarantine followed Ministry of Health guidelines, which include keeping anyone who cannot confirm their immunisation status at home during the incubation stage.

Principal Graeme Budler says most students and staff are vaccinated, so

only a small number had to stay home.

The school’s registered nurses onsite remained in contact with the Public Health Service as the situation unfolded and parents were kept updated.

Mr Budler says parents and the wider community were very understanding and supportive but there was high demand on health practices as people

sought their immunisation records.

Orewa College principal Kate Shevland says at a meeting that took place during the quarantine period, local principals discussed the importance of having up to date data on staff and students’ immune status, so they have accurate information to continued page 2

15

2

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz

contact us...

Continued from p1....

September 18, 2019 – Issue 268 Hibiscus Matters: 21 Florence Ave, Orewa, 0931 General enquiries ph 427 8188

www.localmatters.co.nz Next issues: October 2 & 23 – Book your advertising now Editor: Terry Moore ph 427 8187 | terry@localmatters.co.nz News: MacKenzie Dyer ph 028 889 0418 | coastnews@localmatters.co.nz Graphic designer: Lorry McCarthy | hibiscus@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Angela Gallagher ph 022 029 1895 | sellit@localmatters.co.nz Janet Moses ph 022 096 8517 | sales@localmatters.co.nz A division of Local Matters. Hibiscus Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated to more than 23,500 homes and businesses twice a month: Puhoi • Waiwera • Hatfields • Orewa • Silverdale • Millwater • Dairy Flat • Red Beach • Whangaparaoa Peninsula Views expressed in Hibiscus Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers. All rights reserved. Reproduction without editor’s permission is prohibited.

base decisions on, should more schools have confirmed cases.

As of last week, around 89 of Orewa College’s 1936 students were not vaccinated, while a further 80 had not yet provided evidence or records of vaccination.

“Some of the non-vaccinated students have been getting vaccinated, especially once they are aware of the consequences such as not being able to sit exams or attend school should a case be identified,” Ms Shevland says.

While the Kingsway case is the first at a local school, there are other confirmed cases within the community. The Auckland Regional Public Health Service is not able to provide data for the Coast, but as the paper goes to print there have been 166 notified cases confirmed in the Waitemata District Health Board area (which includes the Hibiscus Coast) out of 1007 cases in Auckland, and 1214 nationwide (since January 1). These figures are still trending upwards.

Although the Hibiscus Coast remains at arm’s length from the main centre of the outbreak, in South Auckland, there is a lot of concern and residents are hyper aware that the country is in the midst of the biggest measles epidemic since the 1990s.

Local health professionals say they have been inundated with requests for information about the outbreak and also have large numbers of patients asking about their immunisation status or seeking copies of their records to prove they have been vaccinated. There are also patients presenting at clinics to be checked, worried that they, or their children, may have measles.

High numbers are also coming in to be

vaccinated. While some local medical centres say they have plenty of vaccine available, several others, including Silverdale Medical Centre, say they have experienced shortages. Silverdale Medical Centre executive manager Ranyani Perera says the situation is fluid and constantly changing – currently the practice is focusing vaccination on its own registered, high-risk patients until it is able to obtain more vaccine.

Pharmacist Tania Adams of Unichem Manly says her first contact with measles came early on in the outbreak, when someone visiting the area came into her store.

“At that time, a few months ago, the epidemic was being contained, but then it turned up right on our doorstep,” Ms Adams says. “I had never seen the measles rash before, but I told the woman I thought that was what it was and advised her to seek confirmation from her doctor. Two weeks later she returned and said it was measles.”

“It made me aware it was around, and we followed up and made sure all our staff got booster shots if they needed them. We also put protocols in place so we can contain it.”

Ms Adams says although pharmacists have seen an influx of people with lots of questions about the disease, medical centres are bearing the brunt of the community’s concerns, and that in the last week demand for the vaccine “ramped up into hyperdrive”.

Although pharmacies are not currently offering measles vaccinations, this may happen in future if they are called upon to do so by the District Health Board.

“So far the medical centres are coping, but the pressure is definitely on,” Ms Adams says.

Measles facts: Symptoms of English measles (rubeola): Fever, dry cough,

runny nose, sore throat, inflamed eyes (conjunctivitis) and tiny white spots with bluish-white centres found inside the mouth on the inner lining of the cheek; a rash made up of large, flat blotches. • The measles virus is highly contagious, spread through the air by droplets or direct contact with infected people. It usually spreads between un-immunised, or under-immunised people. • Before a measles vaccine was developed, most people caught measles in childhood.

Universal vaccination was introduced in 1969 in NZ, although uptake had been low until recent years. The last two major epidemics in NZ occurred in the 1990s with thousands of cases, hundreds of hospitalisations and seven deaths. Source: The Immune Advisory Centre www.immune.org.nz/diseases/measles

THE OUTSIDER Aluminium Awning System

99% UV Protection

0800 SHADES 0800 742 337

Engineered for very high wind zones

FREE QUOTES

Installed price from $3995

www.shadesdirect.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

3

From left, Peter Rigg, Antony Wentworth and Des Adams celebrating the pharmacy’s 60th anniversary in 2009. This week, Life Pharmacy celebrates 70 years in business.

Coast business celebrates 70-year milestone Believed to be the Hibiscus Coast’s longest standing business, Life Pharmacy Orewa marks a unique milestone this week – 70 years of serving the community.

Originally known as Orewa Pharmacy, it opened at Hilltop in 1949, long before any other shops were around.

In 1955 it was relocated by Peter Rigg to Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa (which was called Main Street at the time). Back then, Orewa featured only a few other businesses, including Harry Holder’s Bakery and a dairy, on the highway. The pharmacy was taken over by Des Adams in 1973 and has been owned by pharmacist Antony Wentworth for the last 15 years, although Antony has been with the business for 25 years altogether.

“The small community has grown up a lot,” Antony says. “The dirt roads and farm paddocks have long gone and while progress sometimes means giving up some of the peace and quiet, this is a fantastic community to be part of.”

With literally hundreds of staff through its doors since it opened, Antony says there are endless stories and connections with the Coast and its people.

“There has always been plenty of fun and activity – a tank was even rolled in for a special War on Prices promotion in the 1980s,” Antony says. “Staff had

a lot of fun driving the tank around town, and there were a number of near crashes because the driver couldn’t see too well.”

Another memorable occasion, in the early 1950s, involved the removal of a large macrocarpa tree from behind the pharmacy, then located in Hilltop.

Another local, the late Guy Hopper of Hopper Bros, was given this job. Guy, with his bulldozer, and landowner Edgar Hansen had a chat and an hour later the tree had been blown out with dynamite. Hopper Bros were repairing windows in nearby houses for some days after this, due to damage from flying wood and rock.

Antony says that it was pharmacy owner Peter Rigg, together with Mac Cole from Waiwera Thermal Pools, who were behind the renaming of this area.

He says in the 1970s, Peter and Mac decided that a more exotic name for the growing region was needed and came up with ‘the Hibiscus Coast’. The pharmacy went a step further and commissioned Bob and Carmen Urban’s nursery to propagate hibiscus plants – every Spring, for a few years, customers were offered a free hibiscus plant if they spent a certain amount in the store.

“Over the years we gave away thousands so that we could justify our area being known as the Hibiscus

Coast,” Antony says.

The late 1970s were a time of many wonderful bargains. The store sold items such as tomahawk axes, socket sets, canary cages, 10 speed bikes and salad sets. The bikes were particularly in demand – 100 of them were sold within 24 hours, even though purchasers had to put the bikes together themselves.

These days, Antony’s wife Alyson also works at the store, and as with most family businesses, the three children have done their part too.

Antony says four of his staff have been with the pharmacy for more than 20 years, and one of them, Jenny Parish, will have been there 30 years next month.

The store celebrates its big birthday this week, with giveaways and special offers.

From top, In the 1970s, Orewa Pharmacy sold more Coppertone sun lotion than any other outlet in NZ. Back in the day, promotions pulled out all the stops – this tank was driven around town to promote ‘War on Prices’ discounts in the 1980s.

ALWAYS HERE TO OFFER YOU THE BEST EYECARE AND LATEST EYEWEAR

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Come and see us in our bigger and brighter store and experience the Orewa Optics difference!

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

Feedback

Predators animals too

I am deeply concerned with this country’s obsession with Predator Free.

Recent issues have articles encouraging people to trap animals, it is disturbing.

I take umbrage with the new pest free champion’s remarks “nobody likes to kill stuff” (HM August 7). Living beings are not “stuff”. This is the only living planet that we know of and we humans are constantly killing. Nature’s balance is disturbed. When the wolf regenerated after humans culled it, they were shocked to discover flora and fauna returned to the area with the wolf. After the last wild cat was slaughtered on Macquarie Island, off Australia, they discovered their mistake

localmatters.co.nz

What’s on your mind? Readers are welcome to air their views. We do not publish abusive or unsigned letters. Letters may be abridged and full versions are at localmatters.co.nz/opinion. Address on p2 or e:terry@localmatters.co.nz

as the birds are still dying. Seems the cats were keeping the rats at bay. Some schools are encouraging children to trap animals. When children should be learning compassion and empathy they are being taught death, judgment and that some lives are worthless. Add to this the obsession with the poison 1080 in the name of predator free. Google the connection of that poison with Monsanto Chemical company and check their history. Google hedgehogs’ and possums’ diets and it turns out birds are not their priority diet, nor are they cats’. They estimate humans have wiped out 60 percent of the animals on the planet. Every living thing has a purpose.

Predator free – shove it. Do not destroy

Local opinion

my future with your agenda.

Rae Bird, Gulf Harbour (abridged) Pest Free Hibiscus Coast Project Coordinator Jenny Hanwell replies: I respect your right to express your opinion. It’s also important to recognise that not all information found on Google is scientifically correct or up to date. I can assure you that Forest and Bird’s Pest Free Hibiscus Coast project is focused on restoring the delicate balance of our ecosystem based on robust scientific evidence.

Eighty percent of native bird species are currently in trouble, including 87 percent of endemic species found nowhere else. This is largely caused by introduced predators brought here

Editor Terry Moore

Candidates campaign on open workshops

For this paper, it is significant that the issue of public access to the local board’s closed and confidential workshops has become an election platform for this year’s Hibiscus & Bays Local Board candidates (see story in Election lift out guide).

Weekly confidential workshops came in with Auckland Council – prior to that, all presentations by council staff were made at meetings that were open to the media and the public.

Workshops include briefings by staff and the circulation of information relevant to decision making. No Minutes are kept and public access is not permitted. Our big beef with this is that issues that do not meet the criteria for a confidential discussion can be discussed by staff and elected members with no public or media scrutiny.

Hibiscus Matters has been seeking public access to workshops since 2014 – it was voted down by local board members in September 2014, November 2015, June 2017 and August 2018.

This election, opening the workshops was made a priority by candidates from Coast People and Penlink First, and this soon turned into an issue that all candidates wished to have their say on.

The local board’s current deputy chair Janet Fitzgerald and chair Julia Parfitt, who both say they favour transparency, have consistently voted against open workshops. However, in this election, they are championing a new system that eliminates workshops entirely, making all meetings public.

There are eight members on the local board – four from Hibiscus Coast and four from North Shore (Bays).

Most, if not all, of those standing for the Hibiscus Coast subdivision say they are in favour of ending closeddoor workshops. A lot will therefore depend on which four candidates for the Bays subdivision get in and how they vote.

Elections are always interesting times for journalists. We’re aware of course that the general public may not follow the ins and outs of local politics as closely as we do, and the voting turnout reflects that. However, your local newspaper gets another perspective as we see politicians at work when we attend meetings, and we also interview, or even just chat, with them fairly frequently on a wide range of issues.

Their decisions have a big impact on the community. With this in mind, I would urge everyone to vote – lift out our election guide from this issue, attend local meetings to hear what the candidates have to say about things that are important to you and make your choice. It really does matter.

by people – these animals are part of the ecosystem elsewhere, but cause devastation here. We all have to take action and thousands of us recognise that we have a choice – it’s the birds, or the pests. Our project offers certified humane methods to safely control animal pests that damage our wildlife and people’s properties. We will not let our unique birds and lizards become extinct and replaced with rats. We will not let the dawn chorus on the Coast go silent on our watch, or our children grow up not knowing what a kiwi or a tui looks and sounds like.

off

4

the record

Sporting moments

Mayoral candidate John Tamihere told Grey Power members at a recent election candidates meeting that he and Cr John Watson first clashed heads on the rugby fields of the North Shore, as members of opposing league teams, back in the day. “Good times,” Mr Tamihere said.

Egg massacre

A scramble of eggs appeared on the road near Silverdale Pak ‘n’ Save on September 4. It seems someone may have driven away from the supermarket leaving a tray of eggs on their car roof. “It looks like a scene from Humpty Dumpty just after the roundabout,” someone commented on Facebook.

Mobility race ‘fake news’ Hibiscus Matters recently received notice of a mobility scooter race, to take place down Centreway Road in Orewa. Disappointingly, this turned out to be a joke. Racing mobility scooters is popular overseas and we can’t wait for someone to make it happen for real on the Hibiscus Coast.

Curley Av Silverdale St

Phone 09 974 3943 | 8 Agency Lane, Silverdale | www.autoprovider.co.nz | Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Wai nui Rd

Direct order from Japan • Low km disability vehicles also available • Come in for a chat

cy Ln Agen

WAS $13,500 NOW $10,495

Tavern Rd

WAS $10,490 NOW $9,490

Hi bis cu sC oa Fle st xm Hi an gh wa Pl y

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

Feedback cont...

Godwits have returned early to the Coast. I spotted this flock of 18 birds on the grass at Millwater Metro Park at high tide on 5 September. The Pukorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre’s facebook page posted news of a similar number touching down at Stanmore Bay on 2 September – a place where they are not often seen.

They were reported to have moved on quickly. I’m thinking these might be the same birds I spotted, now back in Orewa Estuary after becoming disoriented and missing their landing target during the storm. The Shorebird Centre also reports that, “on 23-25 August a window of opportunity arose in Alaska for some early departures for the brave”. It seems these early Orewa arrivals are indeed some of the brave godwits who undertook the journey early. The Orewa flock is expected to increase to over 200 at the peak of summer. Sue Courtney, Orewa The team at Hibiscus Matters is really going to miss John Hyde –one of the paper’s long time friends and supporters, and a community stalwart – who died last month at the age of 95. John, always wearing a hat, would frequently pop into our office to have a chat and give input to our stories.

He also featured in the paper a number of times because of his volunteer work with groups such as the Red Cross and hospice. He was a founding member of the Shakespear Open Sanctuary Society (SOSSI) and volunteered regularly at the sanctuary for 18 years. Recently, members of John’s family and some of the SOSSI volunteers created a small planting within the open sanctuary, at the start of the Waterfall Gully track, as a living memorial.

John spent a lot of time and energy in that area, maintaining it for visitors.

John’s local knowledge, energy and passion for the community made him a force to be reckoned with. With real affection, we will always remember him cupping his hand behind his ear, asking us to speak louder because he, stubbornly, never seemed to be wearing his hearing aids.

Rest in peace, John.

Personal door to door driving services: to and from the airport • private functions • tours • weddings Access to the Northern Busway • ACC registered

Judy: 027 246 0201• Ann: 021 543 200

www.silverservicetransport.co.nz

$2090 NZs quietest Air Conditioner - control from your phone or tablet from anywhere! GL25 (3.2kw) fully installed price *optional Wi-Fi $220 extra

Ask us about our ducted heat pump solutions

Albany Heat Pumps: Todd 027 492 1270 09 415 0503 | Freephone 0800 927 628

www.albanyheatpumps.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

5

6

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz

Hibiscus Coast Artists Inc

Art Exhibition & Sale FREE ENTRY - ALL WELCOME Lucky Door Hamper tickets for sale

Friday October 11, 9am-5pm Saturday October 12, 9am–3.30pm The “Art Shop”, Orewa Community Centre, Orewa Square

Large numbers of playcentre families visited the marae for Māori Language Week.

NO.1 DEDICATED VAPE STORE

SHOP NOW

SILVERDALE LOCATION

Hours Mon - Wed 11am - 7pm Thurs & Fri 11am - 8pm Sat & Sun 11am - 6pm Ph: 09 - 421 - 1119

SPECIALISTS IN PREMIUM IMPORTED E-LIQUIDS POD SYSTEMS, STARTER KITS REBUILDABLE / MECHANICAL DEVICES QUALITY VAPING GEARS Silverdale Silverdale

2181 East Coast Rd, Silverdale City Albany

52 Courthouse Lane, Auckland CBD 5/215 Rosedale Road, Albany, Auckland

PaiNt It BluE FOR OUR BOYS! Buy any blue Resene testpot in September and we’ll donate $1 to The Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand.

Offer applies to all Resene blue 60ml testpots (excludes metallic and wood stains) purchased by retail customers between 10-25 September 2019 at Resene owned ColorShops.

View the Māori language week video online:

localmatters.co.nz

Hundreds welcomed onto community marae To celebrate Māori Language Week, Te Herenga Waka o Ōrewa welcomed hundreds of people onto the community marae in Silverdale.

Around 200 children and parents from nine playcentres across the North Shore took part in two special pōwhiri, and experienced Te Reo Māori activities including sharing kai, singing and games. The events were co-hosted by Silverdale Te Puna Reo Playcentre, which provides full immersion Te Reo Māori Playcentre sessions.

“We want to make coming onto the marae a normal thing for every child, no matter where they are from,” Te

Herenga Waka o Ōrewa chair Kereama Nathan says.

“We only welcome you onto our marae once – from then on, it’s your marae, too.”

The event is part of a ‘rolling pōwhiri,’ where they continuously welcome local schools, residents and community groups onto the marae, weekdays from September 9 to 27.

In its first week, over 500 people will have participated, Kereama says. It is limited to 100 people per pōwhiri, so anyone wishing to attend should email teherengawaka@xtra.co.nz to organise a visit.

STORAGE

UNITS AVAILABLE NOW Declutter from $25 per week

• •

1.5m x 1.5m to 10m x 3m units Discount for long term lease

HIBISCUS COAST SELF STORAGE

625 Whangaparaoa Rd

behind the big green FFS Gym!

Come in and see us today!

Silverdale Resene ColorShop Corner of Hibiscus Coast Highway and East Coast Road (09) 427 9560

tel: 09 424 4106 Supporting colourful kiwi causes!

www.hbcselfstorage.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

7

On a site within a short walk of Red Beach, where a bach once stood, seven homes are to be built.

Density of development felt in Red Beach

CCTV cameras installed by local organisations enabled Police to recently identify and charge a man in relation to three car thefts, two burglaries on the Hibiscus Coast and wilful damage.

The offending happened on July 22 and involved significant damage to Silverdale Rugby Club and a nearby shop on Silverdale Street.

A Police spokesperson says there was no forensic evidence located at the scene but using footage from the high quality CCTV at the rugby club, and from cameras installed in Silverdale, Police were able to identify the person allegedly responsible.

The alleged offender is a 38-year-old man who will appear in Manukau District Court on September 20.

Police have also linked the suspect to further offending across Auckland.

“We encourage all businesses where possible to install cameras. If you want advice on this, contact your local Police station,” the spokesperson says.

Cameras funded by the Silverdale Area Business Association, and some installed by individual businesses, have been in operation in the town centre for several years.

Business association Destination Orewa Beach surveyed its members about installing a network of cameras in Orewa town centre, but, last year, failed to get the 51 percent support required to proceed.

Destination Orewa has said that the issue may be revisited in future.

The team together with Eperthea and Melissa look forward to continuing to look after your eye health.

VISIQUE HAWKINS OPTOMETRISTS: Shop 20, 175 Millwater Parkway, Silverdale P: 09 426 5308 • E: millwater@visique.co.nz

Sudoku 5

2

4

2 5

9 1 8

7 4 8 9 1 1 3

4 1

4 3 9

T H E N U M B E R S G A M E

9

7

2 5 6 8 4 6 9

www.seriouseyes.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

1

Medium – www.sudokupuzz.com

Camera footage identifies burglar

Meet the team at your local Visique Hawkins Optometrist in Millwater. Dennis Oliver, David Joe and Jaymie Rogers have been practicing in the area for over 30 years.

Solution page 38

general public – the first many heard of it was when earthworks began.

The developer, the Red Green Development Trust, will build five detached standalone dwellings and two attached duplexes on the property.

A number of concerned neighbours told Hibiscus Matters that the consent should have been notified so that they could have their say, especially in relation to car parking provision and shading of adjacent properties.

They say what is proposed is also out of character for the neighbourhood.

The height limit prescribed by the zone rules is 11m – the proposed development complies with this, coming in at approximately 7m.

Council’s resource consents West manager, Ian Dobson, says because the application was a residential activity and in a Mixed Housing Urban zone, planners followed the Unitary Plan rules in not notifying the consent.

Fill in this grid so that every column, row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9.

Subdivision of a Red Beach property that once had a single bach on it to build seven new homes demonstrates the density that can be achieved in residential neighbourhoods under the Auckland Unitary Plan.

Earthworks are underway on the 1066sqm site on the corner of Bay Street and William Bayes Place while neighbours, who had no say in the process, anxiously watch to see what impact the completed development may have on them.

The resource consent application for a 7-lot subdivision was granted by Auckland Council planners in June, although it is for almost double the number of homes that the zoning envisages for sites of this size. Under the Mixed House Urban zoning, consent is required for four or more dwellings.

The consent was granted with no notification of neighbours or the

8

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz

Army Bay superfan meets his opera hero A trip to see opera singer Andrea Bocelli in Italy turned into a backstage meet-and-greet for fouryear-old superfan Renzo Petersen from Army Bay. Renzo has been legally blind since birth, so his mum, Nicole Smith, has made a point of playing him lots of music from a young age.

“He has always taken a shining to Andrea Bocelli,” Nicole says.

“So when I saw that he put on a special hometown performance every year in Tuscany, I thought ‘let’s do it’.”

Nicole decided that to make the trip worth the money, she would go allout. She booked tickets to see Bocelli in an amphitheatre especially built for his concerts, seated four rows from

the front.

She also contacted Bocelli’s management six months before the trip to see if there was any chance of meeting the star, who is also blind.

“His tour manager told us she couldn’t promise anything, but that she would be in touch.

The day before their rehearsal, we got a call saying to come along and meet him,” Nicole says.

Nicole and Renzo spent about 15 minutes with Bocelli. Nicole says he was amazed they came all the way from New Zealand to see him. For the next hour, Renzo and Nicole hungout with Bocelli’s family and crew.

“Spending time with Bocelli’s eight year-old daughter and their dog was

probably Renzo’s highlight. She was on his level, so they got on really well.”

Nicole says the concert the next day was “phenomenal.”

“Renzo loved it, too. He sang along loudly and passionately the whole time.”

Renzo travels like a pro, having no issues striking up conversations with people and picking up new languages quickly.

“He learnt how to order mum a red wine, white wine, and bread,” Nicole laughs.

“I just want to teach him that just because he’s blind, it doesn’t mean he can’t adventure around. I think it’s working – he’s fearless.”

From left, Opera legend Andrea Bocelli with Nicole Smith and Renzo Petersen.

Coast group connecting teenage mothers Another online group to support mothers has started on the Coast, and this time it’s for teenagers.

While it is a platform for advice and socialising, its main purpose is to get young mums to meet face-to-face.

The group, called Teen Mums on the Hibiscus Coast and Surrounding Areas, attracted more than 50 members in its first two weeks.

Claire Britton created the group for her daughter-in-law, Racheal Hausman, who became a teen parent at the age of 19 with Claire’s son, Samuel Harkin, who was also 19. Their daughter, Mila, is now three years old.

Both Claire and Racheal are administrators of the new Facebook group. Rachael says that while being a mum is hard work at any age, having a child in your teens presents its own set of challenges.

“Claire saw the anxiety that young people feel from growing up in the age of the internet. It is almost like we’ve forgotten how to meet new people, which adds to the feeling of isolation that teen mums can experience,” Racheal says.

“She saw the need for us to connect.

The Facebook group works because we have Claire, who is older and also supportive and neutral, to provide

guidance when needed.”

While Racheal thinks society is becoming more accepting of teen mums, many group members were concerned about being judged.

“Family members who do not accept the pregnancy are a big challenge for teen mums, who also face the perceived judgement from people day-to-day,” Racheal says. “One of my friends in the group is 17 with a baby and she gets anxious just walking through the mall with her child. That’s where the group comes in. You can just ask if someone wants to go with you; you’re not alone.”

From left, Claire Britton with her daughter-in-law Rachael Hausman and granddaughter Mila Harkin.

Info: search Teen Mums on the Hibiscus Coast and Surrounding Areas on Facebook.

Come visit and dip your toes in the water today!

Steering Steeringaasafe safecourse course

through through our our retirement retirement years years

Retired Men and Women are invited to attend a meeting to Retired Men and Women are invited to attend a meeting to be held the Gulf Harbour Yacht Club at 10.00am, Wednesday be held the Gulf Harbour Yachtthe Club at 10.00am, Wednesday 25 September to support formation of the

25 September to support the formation of the

Rebus Club of Gulf Harbour

HOME & HOSPITAL

Rebus Club of Gulf Harbour

Rebus is an organization which has its origins in the worldwide movement which - a Rotary RebusProbus is an organization has sponsored its origins inprogram. the world-

This will be our country’s 54thsponsored Rebus Club. wide Probus movement - a Rotary program.

Now isThis the will timebe to our put country’s some of your 54thleisure Rebushours Club.to good use by enjoying the conviviality of new friends and activities.

Now is the time to put some of your leisure hours to good use Call Peter 09 424 7759, Graeme 09 424 7115, Norma 427 5216 by enjoying the conviviality of new friends and activities. or check out our website

Situated on Stanmore Bay Beach in Whangaparaoa, we are New Zealand’s only private care resort, where the waves lap literally on your doorstep! Perfect for a swim, walk or family picnic. The Beachfront Home & Hospital is your home for long or short term quality care.

Call Peter 09 424 7759, Graeme 09 424 7115, Norma 427 5216 https://hbcp44.wixsite.com/rebus-gulf-harbour

5 Arun St, Stanmore Bay 09 424 7639 enquiries@thebeachfront.co.nz thebeachfront.co.nz

https://hbcp44.wixsite.com/rebus-gulf-harbour

or check out our website

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

9

Warm hearted Orewa students knit for charity

A small pile of wool donated for an Orewa Primary School art show was left over and one keen knitter, teacher Rachel Ardin, knew just what to do with it.

This term, she began a knitting project that connected a group of Year 5 students, some of their grandmothers, and a charity called Warming Hearts.

Her idea was to knit tiny hats for newborn babies, which are then donated to families by Warming Hearts.

Half of the 12 students who took part (11 girls and one boy) already knew the basics of knitting but the rest were absolute beginners.

Some of the children’s grandmothers, came in to help Rachel teach the children to knit.

The students say among the hardest things to learn were purl stitches and casting on. A few weeks later, it was taking most of them only a week to make a little hat.

Rachel taught herself to knit so she could make things for her second child, five years ago, and fell in love with it.

“Teaching kids a creative art is so important,” she says. “They have enjoyed the process, especially on wet cold winter days when they get to sit inside and knit at lunchtime.”

Rachel’s friend Victoria Dickinson runs the Warming Hearts charity which donates items for newborns, bundled up and distributed by

midwives to families in need.

On September 7 the group visited the charity’s ‘bundle day’, to donate their pile of hats and help assemble the items.

“The children just love that their hats are going to little babies whose families are struggling,” Rachel says.

Info: www.warminghearts.co.nz

From left, The busy hands of this group of knitters from Orewa Primary School made a heart (and head) warming contribution to families in need. The knitters are pictured with grandmother, and knitting instructor, Marg Thompson, left, and teacher Rachel Ardin. Hats for newborns made

by Year 5 students.

The Rotary Satellite Club of Orewa-Millwater recently delivered canned and dried food to the Hibiscus Coast Community House’s foodbank in Orewa. The food was generously donated after an appeal to a local supermarket. Rotary president Caroline Butland says the organisation is dedicated to supporting the local community and grateful for the support of local supermarkets.

The items were accepted on behalf of the Community House by Judith Pearce, who said she was delighted with the donation and that the food items delivered were exactly what she was about to put on her shopping list. Pictured, from left, are Rotary Satellite Club of Orewa-Millwater president Caroline Butland, Hibiscus Coast community house office coordinator Judith Pearce and Rotarians Brian Mullan and Mick Shaw.

Split risk investment + 6% ROI Priced from $950,000 •Stylish live/work units available •Retail and professional services on ground level •2-3 bedroom high end apartments on upper level •Dedicated car parks, courtyards and decking •From 160sqm to 232sqm •As little as $20,000 deposit secures your position •Outstanding return on investment

D y l a n Tu r n e r 021 428 138

dylan.turner@bayleys.co.nz

J o s h C h o l m o n d e l ey - S m i t h 027 233 3441

josh.cholmondeley-smith@bayleys.co.nz MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

10

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz

Art piece saves Daffodil ! t u o n a e l c g - 3 itemS for $5, Day flowers from landfill Sprciln othing irS for $5 a ShoeS -Do2nap tions accepted

–4pm Mon–Fri: 9.30ampm -3 Sat: 9.30am

Volunteers wanted! Ph Cindy 021 0850 9942

Unit 1 & 2, 55 Karepiro Dr, Whangaparaoa | Ph 424 3717

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

• Peace of mind that you have the right tenants • Free up your time - we deal with all the issues • We keep up to date with legislation and health & safety compliance

Orewa College student Alice Watkins is on a mission to rescue as big a bunch of Daffodil Day flowers from landfill as possible.

The flowers which are handed out in return for donations to the NZ Cancer Society on Daffodil Day (August 30) are synthetic and cannot be composted or recycled.

It seems likely that most are put in the bin when Daffodil Day is over and end up in the landfill, but 16-year-old Alice has come up with an alternative.

“My cousin was volunteering and sold quite a few and I thought, ‘what happens to them afterwards’?” Alice says. “The Cancer Society is a great cause but more waste is not what the environment needs right now.”

Alice enjoys creating art, so she decided to collect as many of the flowers as possible and turn them into an art piece.

This will then be sold and the money donated to the Cancer Society.

She says she is thinking of doing a similar thing with Anzac Day poppies next year.

Alice Watkins wants to rescue Daffodil Day flowers from the landfill with a work of art.

Currently Alice has collected around 20 daffodils, but ideally needs closer to 50 for her mural.

To donate your Daffodil Day flowers to Alice, they can be dropped off at Hibiscus Matters’ office, 21 Florence Ave, Orewa during business hours.

Whangaparaoa burglary suspect arrested Contact Craig for a

FREE

Appraisal today

A 41-year-old woman was arrested last week following a number of burglaries in Matakatia Bay in June and August. Police executed a search warrant in Tindalls Bay and a number of items linked to the burglaries were recovered, and will be returned to their owner. A quantity of methamphetamine and LSD was also located. The woman faces charges including burglary and possession of methamphetamine and will appear in court this week.

Craig Harrison Franchise Owner T: (09) 444 5753 M: (021) 476 621

craigh@quinovic-millwater.co.nz www.quinovic.com/millwater

The Protea Patch

September Plant Sale Friday 20th to Monday 23rd September from 7.30am

30% On- 50% OFF Site ONLY

CURTAIN CLEANING

Specialising in Outdoor, Indoor Blinds & Awnings

SPECIALISTS IN MILDEW & STAIN REMOVAL CURTAINS | THERMALS ROMANS | AUSTRIANS Full take-down and re-hang service Open Saturday 9am-12pm Temporary curtains available at no cost

Protea • Leucadendron • Leucospermum • Grevillea • Banksia & more Hardy low maintenance 545 Matakana Road, Warkworth 0985

Mob: 027 576 8563 • Ph: 09 425 8277

sales@proteapatch.co.nz • www.proteapatch.co.nz

For a free quote phone Andre 027 433 0430 www.rhinoblinds.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Ph 426 4690

www.textilecleaning.co.nz

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

11

Kiwi rescued from bunker The instincts of a volunteer at Shakespear Open Sanctuary led to the discovery of a little spotted kiwi that had fallen into a 2m deep bunker.

The bunker is hidden in long grass on the Navy land that forms part of the sanctuary and no one knew it was there.

Recently, kiwi monitoring team leader Maree Johnston was tracking the 10 kiwi within the sanctuary that still wear transmitters – most have had the devices taken off as the birds seem settled since they were introduced in April, 2017.

For some reason, with this particular bird, Maree thought something was amiss, and decided to go a bit further and get a pinpoint position.

In doing so, she discovered the bird huddled at the bottom of the bunker. Open Sanctuaries senior ranger and bird handling expert Matt Maitland was called in to climb down, rescue the bird and check to see if it was injured from the fall.

“There was no food down there and so we were very lucky to get to him, probably less than three days after he fell,” Matt says.

The bird passed the health check with flying colours and ran away when released nearby. A lid has been fitted to the bunker.

This kiwi was lucky to be found within a few days of its fall. Photos, Maree Johnston/SOSSI

On the lookout for rodent and rabbit

Surveillance cameras in Shakespear Open Sanctuary have picked up the presence of a rabbit, and a Norway rat in recent weeks. It is just over a year since rabbits were last found within the pest free gates, and seven months since a rat was detected there. Open Sanctuaries senior ranger, Matt Maitland, says it is clear from the footage that the rat is a male – a female is more of a threat as it could give birth. Rabbit graze on plants, which reduces the condition of the habitat for other species. It is not known whether this rabbit is male or female.

Matt says the rabbit could have got in while the pest proof gates were closing, or from the beach side. “It’s disappointing because we have worked hard to keep the buffer zone just outside the sanctuary rabbit free, so even having them there is a worry,” he says. “We really appreciate the work that Pest Free Peninsula is doing to reduce those numbers.” All staff and volunteers are keeping their eyes peeled for both the animals. Rat poison has been put in bait stations and some spotlighting/shooting is taking place at night, targeting rabbits.

Council’s Open Sanctuaries senior ranger, Matt Maitland, left, with Chief Petty Officer John Harrison, holding the rescued kiwi.

Enjoy retirement in the heart of Warkworth – all you need is just a short walk away All the benefits of qualitybuilt apartment living with the convenience of village life right at your doorstep.

Cafes, shops and services all within easy walking distance.

Showrooms open to view All enquiries 09 425 8766

or email us at info@realliving.co.nz | Sales office at 9 Queen St, Warkworth Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Retirement as you dreamt it to be

12

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localbusiness

Silverdale couple named ‘Mandarin Superstars’

n C H A N G I N G P L AC E S

Garage Door Repair Man Garage doors aren’t the most exciting thing to spend your money on, say Garage Door Repair Man owners Terry and Amanda Morris, but when they fail, it can become a security issue.

Repairing and replacing garage doors has kept the couple in business for almost 30 years.

Demand has been growing more rapidly over the last five years, prompting their move to a new head office and garage space in Highgate, Silverdale.

While they operate Auckland-wide, the business has always been based on the Hibiscus Coast. It started in 1987 with Terry working as a solo garage door contractor, while Amanda worked as an accountant in the corporate sector.

Like many small business owners, the heavy workload together with demands of family led them to take a step back and set off sailing around the Pacific for four years.

“For one of those years we had two trained technicians operating in New Zealand and ran the business over the phone from Fiji,” Amanda says.

“When we came back, we decided to combine our skill sets and commit to growing the business.”

Terry has seen the Garage Door technology develop significantly during his time in the industry.

“Automatic doors only became mainstream in New Zealand in the mid-80s. Before that, you’d find airline pilots would bring garage door motors

Terry and Amanda Morris

back from the US,” he says.

“Now all of the automatic openers we supply have the ability to connect to the internet, so you can close your garage door from anywhere in the world.”

The business environment has also changed.

“Because of online shopping, people call at any time of the day and night,” Terry says.

“We’ve responded to this by having our calls answered 24/7, so even if the call is out of hours, our customers still get to talk to an actual person, not an automated machine.”

The couple say thanks to their team’s experience, nine times out of 10 they can diagnose the issue and provide a quote before they visit the job.

While the brand has been built around Terry’s extensive knowledge, he and Amanda acknowledge the team behind them.

“Our technicians and admin staff are great – almost like our family.”

Garage Door Repair Man LTD

A Silverdale couple have been recognised for their contribution to Chinese language use in New Zealand, deeming them “Mandarin Superstars” for this year’s Chinese Language Week, running from September 22 to 28.

Lucy and Sam Mills were selected along with 11 others, after sending in a video explaining how they incorporate Mandarin into their everyday lives.

“As well as getting to show others that learning Mandarin can be fun, we thought it would be a fun thing for us to do, too,” Lucy says.

She teaches a new entrance class at Silverdale School.

“I like to incorporate Mandarin into lessons, especially since there are a few Mandarin speakers in my classroom,” she says.

“The other day someone said ‘ew’, which was an easy opportunity for me to teach them the word e, which also means revolting.”

Sam, who is fluent in Mandarin, owns an immigration law firm in Auckland city.

“I actually have an office in China now, as that is where many of my clients are,” Sam says.

“Most people have their offices in the bigger cities in China, but mine is in Kunming City. We love it there because it is similar to New Zealand in many ways.”

Lucy and Sam first went to China

The Hair Company is pleased to welcome Maria Blunden back to the Coast ...

MARIA’S GOLD CARD SPECIAL Haircuts $20

0800 63 63 48 10/22 Highgate Parkway, Silverdale E: info@garagedoorrepairman.co.nz

around 10 years ago.

They stayed living in China for four years full-time, with Lucy working as an English teacher, while Sam studied Mandarin at Yunnan University.

“We quickly learnt that we wouldn’t get very far in China without the language, which is why Sam went to study,” Lucy says.

“My lessons came from going to the farmers markets. The people running the stalls were my greatest teachers.”

Lucy and Sam say the most important part of being Mandarin Superstars is encouraging others to learn another language, even if it’s not Mandarin.

“Learning another language is like putting your goggles on underwater – your world is broadened and your brain is stretched.”

Lucy and Sam’s Mandarin Superstars video is coming soon to the Chinese Language Week website: nzclw.com.

The Hair Co.

Servicing Hibiscus Coast & Rodney Garage Doors for 25 years Fast professional Garage Door & Garage Door Opener Repair/Replacement

M: 021 535 367

Lucy and Sam Mills have been frequenting China since first visiting 10 years ago.

(Tuesdays and Wednesdays only) ph 021 426 465

Hillary House, 1 Florence Ave, Orewa

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localbusiness

13

Cherylle Wood, left, makes new immigrants like Annarize Botha and son Jeandré feel at home on the Hibiscus Coast. Above, The Boshoff family is settling into life on the Coast, thanks to the generosity of Cherylle Wood of Bright Bears.

Passing kindness on to new Coast residents

For several years, Cherylle Wood has been quietly going about the business of helping others at the Bright Bears childcare centre she runs in Whangaparaoa.

With the full support of the centre’s owner, Herbert Sima, Cherylle has been providing childcare at reduced prices, or even free of charge, to assist families who may be going through hard times. In particular, this has helped new immigrants to settle in, ensuring that their children are cared for while they look for work and get themselves set up.

Eleven years ago, Cherylle herself arrived from Zimbabwe with her 18-year-old daughter and five suitcases containing everything they owned.

Although she had worked all her life as an early childhood educator, her qualifications were not recognised and so, at the age of 58, she went back to university.

Being an adult student, she says, was an unexpected pleasure as it enabled her to get Maori input and perspectives, which she previously knew nothing about.

Although she found this community welcoming and supportive of new people, she understands the difficulties faced by new immigrants.

“When we arrived, neighbours brought us crockery, cutlery and even furniture to help us set up,” Cherylle says. “I believe in passing that kindness on and it’s so easy to do

because Whangaparaoa is a close knit community, with a great spirit.”

Cherylle has worked at Bright Bears for four years and in that time has helped many local families.

“Some of them are battling financially because rent and food are expensive, so we might offer a reduced price or free place for a few months until they find their feet,” Cherylle says.

Annarize Botha describes her family’s recent move here from South Africa as “overwhelming”. She says she cried when Cherylle offered to take fouryear-old son Jeandré at Bright Bears for half-price, so Annarize, a teacher, could look for work.

“I was desperate – without that help, I could not have begun to find a job,”

HARCOURTS

TOP PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OFFICE - EXCELLENCE

TANDEM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LTD #2 NATIONALLY 2018/2019

HANNAH TILLMAN REINZ

HARCOURTS

PROPERTY MANAGER OF THE YEAR

TOP PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OFFICE - EXCELLENCE

TANDEM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LTD

2018/2019

#1 NORTHERN REGION 2018/2019

You can rely on our award winning team to take exceptional care of your investment.

Annarize says.

Annarize is now relief teaching while she adapts to the Kiwi way of doing things – something she says Cherylle is also helping her with.

“Teaching is very different here,” Cherylle says.

Both of the Boshoff family’s two children are at Bright Bears. Mum Jody says when they arrived in New Zealand they were prepared for the school fees, but their container arrived late and they had to move into a house with nothing.

“Cherylle arrived with a microwave and new plates – she had us in tears of gratitude,” Jody says. “We offered to pay her, but her simple challenge to us was to pay it forward. Cherylle is making a big difference in the community.”

HARCOURTS PROPERTY MANAGER OF THE YEAR

HANNAH TILLMAN #3 NATIONALLY 2018/2019

Hannah Tillman Property Manager Hibiscus Coast

Pauline Hill Finance

Mandy Harrison Property Manager Warkworth

Libby Cave Director

Jill Flatt Property Manager Hibiscus Coast

Michelle MacLennan Assistant Warkworth

Angela George Assistant Hibiscus Coast

Tandem Property Management Limited Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Phone: 0508 RENTED Email: libby.cave@harcourts.co.nz

14

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localbusiness

Hidden disability lanyards in airports take-off A Gulf Harbour mother, Georgia Hood, is campaigning to have a universally recognised lanyard introduced at all New Zealand airports to make travel for people with hidden disabilities much easier.

Georgia, who has a four-year-old son with autism, has started a petition asking New Zealand airports to provide lanyards as an option.

“We are a family that likes to travel, but places like airports are a sensory overload for our son Fergus, so it becomes difficult,” Georgia says.

“A lanyard is a discreet way of communicating to staff and other passengers that he may need extra assistance, without us constantly having to explain ourselves.

“It seems simple, but it can take away a lot of stress for people with all kinds of hidden disabilities, from anxiety to dementia.”

In just over a month, the petition has gathered 2880 signatures.

The idea has already been successful in the United Kingdom, where a sunflower lanyard, that is provided free-of-charge by airports, is universally recognised as a symbol for hidden disabilities. The lanyard’s availability has spread to other transport providers and Tesco supermarkets, which Georgia hopes will eventually happen in New Zealand, too.

As well as the petition, Georgia has been contacting airports and supermarkets directly.

NZ Airports Association chief

Soft plastic recycling bins, which take plastic bags and wrap, returned to the Hibiscus Coast in recent months.

Countdown supermarket in Silverdale began offering the collection of soft plastic in May and last week The Warehouse in Silverdale also came on board. The Packaging Forum, which runs the soft plastic recycling scheme, is phasing in the service at selected locations while it establishes collection volumes. Customers can see which stores are offering the service on the store locator at recycling.kiwi.nz

Georgia Hood says lanyards for people with hidden disabilities is about meeting high stress situations with understanding. Right, The sunflower lanyards used in the United Kingdom.

executive, Kevin Ward, has responded favourably to the idea, and says it will be discussed at a meeting next month.

The Hood family’s next trip is to Sydney in December.

“Even though we have been telling Fergus lots of stories about air travel to help prepare him, I am still dreading it after his last flight,” she says.

Georgia says the lanyards give her hope.

“Having a hidden disability should not stop anyone from travelling, going to the supermarket or doing anything,” she says. “This is a simple, inexpensive solution to a very stressful situation for people. It will help give people with hidden disabilities dignity and independence.”

Info: search NZ sunflower lanyards on www.change.org

Live life your way at Bupa Northhaven

The arrival of Spring was heralded with the Hibiscus Coast Orchid Society’s annual show held at Orewa Community Hall on September 6 and 7. Over the two days, the public came in large numbers to see the displays of flowering orchids and interest was such that the trading table was close to selling out. The Society recently celebrated its 35th anniversary.

Client Experience Office Award Harcourts Northern Region 2018/2019

WHANGAPARAOA 1st Place

Concert screening | Sunday 22 September at 2pm This Sunday at Bupa Northhaven Retirement Village we will be screening a concert of a well-known violinist and conductor. There will be an afternoon tea to follow, as well as a tour of our village. If you would like to attend please RSVP to Toni by 20th September.

Call (09) 520 7303 or 027 201 5551

|

Apartments available: 1 bedroom for $413,000 & 2 bedroom fro m $549,000

142 Whangaparapa Road, Red Beach | www.bupa.co.nz/northhaven

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Fiona Stark Dip.Pod.,S.R.Pod Orthotics • Ingrown toenails Corns & calluses • Heel & arch pain Diabetes check • ACC registered Online booking available: www.completefeetpodiatry.nz New World Complex 570 Whangaparaoa Road Phone 428 3888 • 021 0550 464

votersguide

Local Elections 2019

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

15

Residential | Commercial Kensington Park | Luxury & Lifestyle

Bar Raisers | Deal Makers | Clients for Life

3s/20 Central Boulevard, Silverdale, Auckland 0932 09 218 7989 | admin@telosgroup.co.nz | telosgroup.co.nz Licensed Under the REAA 2008

BRIAN VOTE

for Waitemata District Health Board

NEESON 1

• Present Board Member • Former Chairman Finance Committee • Former National MP • Assistant Speaker House Representatives • Former Chair Wilson Home Trust • Local Businessman Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Authorised by: B.Neeson, Flavell Dr, Orewa, 09 421 1897

All candidates were provided with four questions. The order that candidates are listed was drawn at random.

Candidates not featured did not respond to the questions prior to our deadline.

16

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

Local Elections 2019

votersguide

Open workshops demanded Wayne Walker Local body candidates put their case for your vote at the first candidates’ meeting in Orewa on August 30.

Fifteen candidates attended, including only two of 21 Mayoral candidates – John Tamihere and Alezix Heneti.

Auckland Council candidate for Albany Ward, Julia Parfitt, and incumbent Councillors Wayne Walker and John Watson were there, along with most of those standing for the 4-seat Hibiscus subdivision of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board.

The almost two-hour meeting was hosted by Hibiscus Coast Grey Power and around 70 residents attended, almost filling the Catholic Church hall – most of those who attended were older people.

Key themes of the five minutes speeches allotted to each candidate were the need to bring Council Controlled Organisations (such as Auckland Transport and Panuku Development) under tighter rein, more transparency and accountability and fiscal responsibility.

The need to build Penlink was also mentioned by most candidates, along with public transport and environmental issues. The potential sale of assets such as Gulf Harbour Marina and Orewa Service Centre were also raised.

A new issue to emerge this election is the opening of local board workshops to the scrutiny of ratepayers and media (see Opinion, p4). Currently the only meetings that the local board holds in public are the once-a-month business meetings whereas the weekly

workshops are kept confidential.

The majority of the Hibiscus Coast local board candidates say they want an end to closed workshops, so whoever gets in, there looks to be a change in the wind.

Although local board chair Julia Parfitt consistently voted against opening workshops, she recently said she would like to see them axed altogether and a new structure put in place with two open meetings each month and an open forum where people can bring issues to members. She says any change has to happen at the start of a local board term as changing mid-term is difficult. “Perception is everything and if people don’t perceive the workshop system to be open, then that matters,” she says.

Deputy chair Janet Fitzgerald, who in the past voted against open workshops every time the issue was raised, agrees with Mrs Parfitt’s approach. She says her team thoroughly discussed the issue. “We believe in transparency so would support open workshops but would rather see two business meetings where decisions are made with proper debate and conclusion. If we are elected, when the new board meets we will be suggesting this approach for the next term,” Mrs Fitzgerald says.

Who can we vote for?

Hibiscus Coast residents can vote for the Mayor, two Albany Ward councillors and four members of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board as well as members of the Waitemata District Health Board. Info: www. voteauckland.co.nz

Albany Ward

I have lived on the Coast with my family more than 30 years with children attending local schools.

Commerce degree, and business experience in manufacturing, design, water quality and conservation.

Committee member at many local clubs, tennis player, RSA member, NZ champion Toastmasters, community trustee, current Auckland Councillor.

What are the three issues you wish to prioritise if elected? Completing transport improvements. Making sure that projects are started – like Penlink, the East Coast Road across to Silverdale North, improved feeder bus routes and Northern Motorway improvements.

Far more effective control over Council Controlled Organisations (CCOs) with clear directives that strategic assets like Gulf Harbour marina are not to be sold.

Making environmental and community improvements actually happen – like sediment control that works, erosion control, sustainable funding for the Youth Centre, fair funding for sporting and recreational organisations.

How would you address those issues?

The business case for Penlink should be revisited to bring it forward given the rapid development of Millwater and Milldale.

Additional Park and Ride locations should be identified and secured through developer funding at Milldale

and the Penlink/Dairy Flat exit. The funding of the Northern Busway from Albany to Silverdale should be brought forward to allow at least a shoulder facility. Business cases are required urgently for parking buildings at the Park and Rides. The Gulf Harbour Ferry should have a weekend service, with a trial to test viability. A Marina Strategy for Gulf Harbour should be completed urgently with stakeholder participation.

How can Council improve its performance? The CCOs require reform. Auckland Transport should once again have two Councillors on the board. Assets that can be more efficiently and economically managed under direct council control, removing bureaucracy and cost. The dynamic lane project can be extended.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers over the next three years?

Completing transport projects like Penlink that are well advanced. More genuine Council engagement with communities, with less secrecy and more openness and transparency.

Rates and debt that are affordable with an increase in the contribution of central government.

9 01 oice ge 2 h illa r o C s vi les nt V d p e A eo em d P e ir Ag ER Ret N When looking for a retirement lifestyle with a IN rge difference consider Maygrove Village. Discover the W La freedom and security of living in a community that st e B

understands the importance of living life to the fullest.

DISCOVER THE MAYGROVE DIFFERENCE Limited Villas available. Call to view now!

M AY G R O V E V I L L A G E . C O . N Z

|

09 427 0090

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

votersguide

Local Elections 2019

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

John Watson

Julia Parfitt

Albany Ward

Albany Ward

Lifelong Albany Ward resident married with two sons, Justice of the Peace. Former teacher and Board of Trustees member at Northcross Intermediate.

Community focussed. Former North Shore City Councillor representing Albany Ward.

Current Chair of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board. Hard working, approachable and successful at delivering results.

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected? Bringing forward the commencement of a fourlane future proofed Penlink. Ensuring Council treats all facilities across the region in a fair way that would provide certainty of funding for Estuary Arts Centre, Centrestage Theatre and the Youth Centre.

Preventing environmental damage from sedimentation of waterways like Nukumea stream and Weiti River.

How would you address those issues? To bring forward Penlink we need to continue talking to potential delivery partners. We have identified two parties to date who are prepared to deliver the project.

As a local board we have ensured that a review of the way Council funds facilities is now underway. If elected I would work collaboratively and constructively to promote a more equitable allocation of funding.

Again, we have already started the process of improving the sedimentation

17

standards. I want to be around the council table when those better sedimentation standards are approved.

How can Council improve its performance? We must review the way we deliver council services. The governing body needs to adopt a true regional focus and more effectively manage CCOs by setting them more specific and measurable targets to deliver. In turn, CCOs like Auckland Transport and Panuku must be held more publicly accountable for their actions and spending. More decisions must be made locally. The emphasis should be on spending money wisely and reducing debt, not on continual asset sales What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years?

I believe I offer a different approach.

Over the last nine years as local board chair, I have worked collaboratively and constructively across council and our wider community. As your councillor, I will continue to work hard to highlight and resolve the issues that concern you.

Julia Parfitt is also standing for the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board (Bays subdivision)

I’m a long time Hibiscus Coast resident who has raised family on the Coast. Attended Auckland University, former Head Boy of Westlake. Taught at secondary schools, coach of sports youth teams. Captained Northcote Tigers and Hibiscus Coast Cricket Club. Awarded two Royal Society of NZ Teachers Fellowships, one producing a written and oral history of Whangaparāoa. Trustee of Whangaparāoa Community Trust, current Auckland councillor.

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected? The transport network is a key issue. We must maintain the momentum of recent successes such as Penlink funding approval, dynamic lanes, new Silverdale Park ‘n Ride, increases in the Gulf Harbour ferry service and Northern Motorway improvements. The protection of assets like the Gulf Harbour Marina and our natural environment.

Continuing to deliver important community facilities through careful management of the budget, low rates increases and the elimination of wasteful spending.

How would you address those issues?

Penlink start date needs to be brought forward. The new Hibiscus Coast Bus Terminal starting construction later this month will soon require a car park building that keeps pace with demand.

The number of Gulf Harbour ferry sailings needs to continue to increase, along with a weekend service and the

trialing of a ferry that can do the trip in 30 minutes. The Northern Motorway improvements will extend the busway – first to Albany, then to Ōrewa. The Skybus service to the airport can come to Silverdale next year.

At Gulf Harbour we will not sell the Marina (nor any other publicly owned assets on the Coast). Control of the Hammerhead can occur through the Public Works Act. Higher standards of environmental protection can occur through timely changes to the regulatory and compliance regimes in Council.

How can Council improve its performance? Council’s performance will only improve when 12 councillors from across the region gain a majority, work together and exert control over the organisation on behalf of the public.

This is a distinct possibility in this election, irrespective of who is Mayor.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years?

A more open Council that is far more accountable to the public. A transport network that makes a real difference to travel times and convenience.

The restoration of public trust and confidence through meaningful change in behaviour and performance.

Claire

VOTE TEIRNEY

Approachable, listens & seeks the facts Independent, fair, hardworking Get the Coast moving – more Park & Ride spaces, more Ferry services and Penlink Clean Beaches – reduce rubbish & sediment Sea Level Rise plan Fenced Dog Park Transparency Passionate about the Coast & a long time resident Cute photo of my dog Rusty and myself, used to break up the usual election photo monotony.

ClaireTeirneyforHibiscusBaysLocalBoard

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Authorised by C Teirney, 244 Vipond Road, Whangaparaoa

For your Local Board

18

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

Alezix Heneti

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected? Strategic, diplomatic, decisive representation for the public to the Council. Stepping up to take more responsibility in the governing of Auckland, for you.

Making a difference in Council for your betterment, advantage and prosperity. This includes bringing Penlink to fruition sooner rather than later and rapidly. This also includes the Marina strategy, Gulf Harbour Ferry, Hibiscus bus station developments, safety improvements, road connections, Silverdale connections, controlling costs, actioning climate controls in community and recycling implementations.

You first, your concerns first, your choices listened to, adhered to and actioned. Locals first, council aiding, favouring and substantiating what you want. This includes acquiring

votersguide

Stephen Lyttelton Local Board

Albany Ward

Studied democracy at Waikato University, owned recycled boutiques and other businesses in two countries, and have completed 38 years in many volunteer positions. Mother of five adult children, 13 grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

Lived on North Shore over 20 years: 15 in Takapuna, five in Ōrewa. Current JT Foxx client.

Landmark graduate and advanced 2000-2019, and a John Kehoe Mind Powers Quantum Leap Graduate 2019.

Local Elections 2019

significant advantages, strategies and financial benefits for all business in our area to make you money.

Secondly, ratepayers being acknowledged, recognised and given everything you ask for in prompt, early acceptable manner.

Thirdly, our youth getting all they need.

How would you address those issues?

I would spend more time, listening, understanding and actioning what you really want. Together we do this – in lots of little powerful consistent strategies, policies and implementations.

How can Council improve its performance? By you and me, together holding it to accountability, responsibility and accessibility. The key is consistency, decisiveness and leadership responsibility every single day, until I get for you what you want.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years? I will deliver extricate, transfer funding to every local and Ward requirement humanly possible in the next three years.

Alezix is also standing for the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board and Auckland Mayor.

I’m a committed Coastie, active in the local community. I’m involved in and Chair the Penlink Now Team. I’m a committee member of SOSSI, caring for local environment. I’m Chair of the Estuary Arts Centre and sing with the Hibiscus Coast Singers. I’m married with three adult children.

Qualified in law and accountancy, with a successful business career, I can effectively oversee the Local Board’s finances.

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected? My three key issues are the earlier delivery of a four lane Penlink, the achievement of pest-free status for the Coast and equitable funding from Council.

How would you address those issues?

I would strongly advocate for the earlier delivery of a four lane Penlink.

I would encourage parties to submit bids for financing the development of Penlink.

Within prudent financial parameters, I would advocate for the provision of increased targeted funding to achieve the Coast’s pest-free status.

The Coast has not received its fair share of Council’s budget since the Super City was established in 2010.

This is despite us being one of the fastest growing regions of Auckland.

An example of this is the fact that the local board has to fund Estuary Arts Centre out of its budget, with

no long-term funding direct from Council. There are other community art centres around Auckland that receive funding direct from Council.

This gives their local boards greater budgetary flexibility than ours.

How can Council improve its performance? Council needs to listen more carefully to its local communities. It must take heed of those communities’ aspirations and concerns.

I am totally supportive of open and transparent governance. I am part of the Positively Penlink team and we are unanimously in favour of open business meetings, in place of workshops. This will allow for the transparent conduct of decision-making processes and decision-making.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years? I hope to deliver on an earlier four lane Penlink, substantial improvements in transport and recreational infrastructure, significant progress on pest-free status for the Coast and equitable funding by Council of the Coast’s financial needs and wants.

Midway FLOORING

2000 LTD

rpet Roll Stock Cametre

$85 per lineal

Visit us at 675 Whangaparaoa Road, or call for a free measure & quote: Ph 424 3790 sales@midwaycarpets.co.nz | www.midwaycarpets.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

votersguide

Local Elections 2019

Samuel Mills

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected?

I want to encourage more youth engagement with the local board and our community in general. The youth suicide statistics in New Zealand are absolutely shocking and I believe that this is because the youth are becoming increasingly isolated from the community at large.

Secondly, I want to promote open government by making the business of the local board open to all members of our community to encourage engagement.

Thirdly, I love our beaches and local reserves and wish to see that they are maintained.

How would you address those issues? I want to organise young people to take action for things that they value. A practical example of this is that I recently organised the youth at the Ōrewa beach basketball court into an advocacy group. These local community assets are integral to ensuring that the youth step away from their computers and gaming

19

Claire Teirney

Local Board

I was born in Auckland and under my parents’ guidance went on to graduate with a law degree. I am currently a practicing lawyer and have my own business which has offices in NZ and China. I speak English and Mandarin Chinese. I have been fortunate enough to marry a beautiful woman, who is a primary school teacher.

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

Local Board

devices to interact with people from all segments of our community.

I will take every effort to ensure that local board workshops are open to the community.

I am a very big advocate of high value tourism. To this end I want to see a ban on freedom camping in our beaches and reserves and ensure that enforcement efforts are well funded.

How can Council improve its performance? One word, transparency. From talking to members of our community there is an apathy amongst voters, and the general opinion is that whoever we vote for our voice is not going to be heard. I intend to change that and will be incredibly vocal on behalf of Coasties to ensure that we get our fair share.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years? An open and transparent local government that listens to the people and acts upon their wishes and increased engagement amongst our youth in local body politics. The youth may not yet be ratepayers yet, but their voice is equally important.

I’ve lived on the Coast most of my life. My career has been in marketing for over 25 years – mainly with multinationals. I’m used to thinking strategically while also being able to get stuck in and get things done. I am a volunteer instructor with our local dog club and have gained knowledge of how council works during the recent Dog Bylaw review.

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected? Getting the Coast moving with both public transport and roads is my first priority as it affects everyone, every day. More park and rides are needed now and Penlink needs an actual start date.

We also need clean beaches. Sediment run off from developments has impacted our streams, bays and estuaries. I believe Council needs to do more around sediment monitoring and prevention. I have already reached out to the Council Sea Change group and will work to get improvements. I will lobby for the Coast to be one of the areas to get Council’s planned rubbish prevention measures - stormwater drains with outlets on our beaches to stop plastic and rubbish polluting them.

How would you address those issues? We need AT and the governing body to take on these projects with urgency. We need to get Coast voices heard. I will mobilise as many people as I can to do this – we need a show of force and large numbers. We got 2000 submissions from the Hibiscus & Bays

area on the Dog Bylaw, yet only 42 people across Auckland submitted to AT for more park and rides.

Council needs a sea level rise plan.

Recently released data may have implications for homeowners regarding areas identified as at risk of exposure to coastal inundation and sea level rise. We need to tackle this as a combined group (councillors and local board members), so that there is a clear strategy and ratepayers have input.

How can Council improve its performance? The local board can open its workshops to the public. I plan to hold drop-in sessions outside work hours, hopefully with other board members. Council as a whole needs to make it easier for the public to submit their views.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years?

Of the 21 local boards in Auckland, Hibiscus & Bays has the fifth largest population. Of the 13 Wards, the Albany Ward has the third largest population. I want to be part of a team who deliver the investment, planning and infrastructure that we deserve as one of the biggest, and fastest growing, areas of Auckland.

Effective leadership - the change we need!

Vote Julia Parfitt • A connected city with improved busway parking, better linkages and reduced congestion • A city that cares for It’s environment • A fair city that treats all areas equitably • A city for people-accessible, affordable, inclusive and safe • A city that is well managed with better, streamlined governance

Independent Councillor for Albany Ward Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

20

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

Local Elections 2019

votersguide

Putting People First Your Local Ward Councillors for AUCKLAND COUNCIL Albany Ward VOTE Wayne Walker

W Walker 35 Brixton Rd Whangaparaoa

www.puttingpeoplefirst.co.nz

VOTE JohnWatson

Top Hibiscus Coast Priorities We’ve got Penlink actually funded for the first time ever…now we’ll work hard to get its start date brought forward (from 2024) We’ve got increased Ferry sailings from Gulf Harbour (12 to 20 in three years) …and we’ll continue to get more (including weekends) We’ve got more Park and Ride spaces for Coast bus users…but we need more…and we’ll get them (along with a modern covered bus terminal) No more lights along the Hibiscus Coast Highway…and especially not at the bottom of the Silverdale hill… instead a direct East Coast Road/Silverdale North link past Pak ‘n’ Save.

We stopped them selling the Gulf Harbour Marina…now we need to secure complete control of the Hammerhead (for boat launching, ferries and recreation) We need to stop sedimentation, fix Orewa Beach and get a walk/cycleway along the Weiti River to Silverdale (including an Archers Block park)…and retain Council Offices on Centreway Road.

And as always… we’ll make the Coast community and our environment a top priority (clean swimming beaches, improved community facilities, and keeping the ‘Coast’ lifestyle)

LOCAL I EXPERIENCED I PROVEN TEAM I INDEPENDENT I AVAILABLE & ACCESSIBLE ACTIVE IN COAST COMMUNITIES WHANGAPARAOA I OREWA I MILLWATER I WAIWERA I STILLWATER I SILVERDALE We are 100% independent and determined to get things done. Our decisions are for what’s best for you and the local communities we serve. That’s an important point of difference.

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

votersguide

Local Elections 2019

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

John Davies

Andy Dunn

Local Board

I have run a multi-national family business, then became and remain active in the film industry. I am a Community Trust manager and have chaired three local trusts in recent times. Being one of the team of five who raise $120,000 a year every year to deliver Harold’s Life Education programme Rodney wide has been a huge achievement.

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected? For me, I am united with my Positively Penlink colleagues on an early start to building a fully public and private transport ready Penlink. We are all committed to genuine care for the environment, and for me, addressing Council’s Climate Emergency declaration genuinely is a key priority. The team are keen to see us working for a significant improvement in local infrastructure and behind the scenes I have already been working towards a multi-purpose venue/hub for Whangaparāoa. I am absolutely committed to use my election to work openly within the Council to deliver this critical asset.

How would you address those issues? Local Boards can generally only advocate. In all three cases I would work with the other members elected to find our common ground and with consensus drive forward on all three issues.

How can Council improve its performance? Speed – it moves

21

Local Board

too slowly. I personally believe the centralised structure does not work.

The local board needs to show it has the capacity to take more responsibility. It must encourage the Mayor and Council to devolve work away from the centre and in to the local boards for action.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years?

Progress on my three key issues and more engagement with the community. I will run two access meetings in cafes across the Coast monthly when the board is in session.

I want you to know you’ll have me behind you in getting things done.

This approach dovetails with the Positively Penlink commitment to advocate for a new meeting structure reducing closed workshops and seeking two open business meetings each month. I’ll deliver strong advocacy for ratepayer needs with Council or any of the Council Controlled Organisations (CCOs). I’m there for you if I am elected. Being your local board member will be my prime job if you elect me, one I know I will relish.

For the 15 years that I’ve lived on the Coast with wife Paula, I have used my professional skills in business, creative design and problem solving to organise, fundraise and support many Coast organisations including Hospice, Centrestage, Estuary Arts, Youth in Transition and Rotary. I am also on the Destination Ōrewa board. I am a team player who gets things done.

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected? Bringing the construction date of Penlink forward and making the most of the benefits like quicker bus trips, a park and ride and joined up walking and cycleways. We need to improve the ferry and bus services to reduce congestion. Ōrewa Beach erosion and seawall issues need an end to expensive delays, with whole of beach solutions.

Other Coast beaches like Red Beach, Stanmore Bay and Manly are also a priority. Coping with population growth is essential. Local schools are under pressure, sports clubs are running out of space, and newer areas, like Gulf Harbour and Millwater, lack community facilities.

How would you address those issues? Ensure that the business case for Penlink is as up to date as possible to take into account rapid growth.

Improve awareness of the business

cases and benefits of more ferry services to Gulf Harbour, more park and rides, the possibility of parking buildings and higher frequency bus services that link to the ferry.

A comprehensive and collaborative approach is needed to address Ōrewa Beach erosion. The different parts of Council need to work together.

Schools, sports clubs and recreation groups should be closely involved in leading the planning and improvement of parks and reserves.

How can Council improve its performance? Simple: start listening to the rate-paying people. For far too long the ratepayers of this area have felt that they aren’t being heard by the hierarchy in the city. The CCOs must be made more accountable to Council, local boards and affected communities.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years?

I will fi­ght to achieve all the issues previously discussed and stay very much in touch with my community, so that we can work as a team to make our community strong and healthy.

Coast People and Penlink First

We’re long time Coasties.

HIBISCUS COAST Local Board www.CoastPeople.co.nz

W Walker 35 Brixton Rd Whangaparaoa

The Coast People and Penlink First team combine skills and experience in business, education, community involvement and youth.

A strong united talented team who will work together for Coast people.

VOTE

Gary

VOTE

Eva

VOTE

Andy

Brown Penfold Dunn Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

VOTE

Leanne

Willis

22

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

Local Elections 2019

votersguide

Gary Brown

Marja Lubeck

Local Board

Labour List MP Based in Rodney

I grew up on the Coast attending local schools and enjoying the Coast lifestyle of beaches and local clubs playing rugby at Silverdale, gymnastics, theatre, Ōrewa surf lifesaving, rugby refereeing. With wife Tracey, our children are at local schools. As an entertainer and fundraiser, I’ve contributed to the community, initiating the Ōrewa Boulevard Walk of Fame.

For appointments and assistance please phone: 0800 582 325 (0800 LUBECK) marja.lubeck@parliament.govt.nz 7a/18 Oteha Valley Road Extension, Albany

Authorised by Marja Lubeck, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected?

My priority will be to eliminate unnecessary traffic congestion by ensuring that Penlink is on the top of the list.

Ensuring sustainable funding for local clubs that provide for youth.

Look after the environment. This includes having full Council ownership and control of the Hammerhead for the ferry service, boat launching and recreation.

How would you address those issues?

Be a strong voice on the local board so that Council, Auckland Transport and Government understand the importance of Penlink . I would keep the pressure on for other local transport projects, especially the Gulf Harbour Ferry.

Find out what the people and organisations of the Hibiscus Coast want from the local board so that the parts of council we interact with, like the Parks Department, understand

our requirements. Work closely with clubs to resolve issues such as a lack of facilities – especially in new growth areas.

I would schedule regular reporting to the local board on the state of our beaches, streams, parks and reserves with an emphasis on how we can improve our performance. I favour use of the Public Works Act to gain public control of the Hammerhead.

How can Council improve its performance? The local board needs to be more transparent and open workshops to the public and the press.

This is essential so that residents and ratepayers are better able to engage.

I support better communication to the public by supplying updates in the local papers and social media.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years?

I bring enthusiasm, great decision making and enhance the community spirit. I’m approachable, listen well and will represent all age groups. I’ll aim for an early start of Penlink’s construction, a sustainable Youth Centre and a Coast that’s buzzing with energy, events and civic pride – a great place to live.

Election dates

• Voting opens on September 20 and closes at noon on October 12. • People can drop their papers off at various locations including libraries. If you were enrolled to vote before August 16, you will receive a voting paper in the mail

by Wednesday September 25. Once you have filled it out, put it in the pre-paid envelope provided and post it back. • The last day to send in postal votes is October 8. • To find out where you can drop voting papers locally visit www. voteauckland.co.nz and put your address into the search on the Where to Drop Off your Voting Papers page. • Official results will be declared on October 17.

Details of local results will be published on Hibiscus Matters’ website, www. localmatters.co.nz Are you following us on facebook? www.facebook.com/hibiscusmatters

Authorised buy J. Fitzgerald, 9A Sundown Ave, Whangaparaoa 0930 Ph. 424 5242

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Local Elections 2019

Eva Penfold

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected?

Transport is the big one. Clean and safe swimming beaches are what makes our Coast special; they need better attention. The current situation for youth on the Coast needs addressing How would you address those issues?

I want to see a localised transport plan that is easy to understand with maps and explanations of how things connect. This includes Penlink, and I’ll push for an early start. Also, the East Coast Road extension over to Silverdale North, the Weiti Walkway/cycleway, a new park and ride at Milldale, more ferry parking, a cycleway up the Stanmore valley, and so on. Then we’d get much more understanding, buy-in and joined up thinking. I’m a fan of travel plans for schools and Walking School Buses.

On the beaches I will push for litter collection traps in the stormwater drains, awareness programmes to “I look forward to the opportunity to serve each and every one of you fellow coasties if given the privilege of a place on our Local Board.”

23

Brent Robinson

Local Board

I live, work and play on the Coast. My children attend local schools. I am actively involved in the PTA and am coordinator of the local Plunket Playgroup. As a business owner I have sponsored the Ōrewa Surf Lifesaving Club; I believe in giving back to the community that myself and my family value so much. Currently I am launching a programme for safe student driving; I’m very strong on youth issues.

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

Local Board

discourage people pouring the wrong stuff down our drains and support for programmes that encourage residents to monitor and improve the health of our streams. We also need more stringent controls on sediment runs offs from developments.

For our youth, I will push for fair funding for the Youth Centre, on-going support for clubs that cater for youth and youth mentoring programmes.

How can Council improve its performance? The Hibiscus Coast is one of the fastest growing areas in Auckland, and for far too long it has been under-resourced in its development funding needs. There’s a low level of confidence in the Council that needs to be raised. Communicating better with local residents, listening and then action is what counts.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years?

Local board meetings and workshops that are open to the public. Improved communication by the local board and Council. Long term sustainable funding for the Youth Centre. A start to Penlink and other important transport projects.

I am a family man and a businessman who has worked and lived on the Hibiscus Coast for the last 20 years. I am married to Dee, have three teenage children, and we love the Coast.

With an accounting background, I have owned a successful large consulting firm specialising in the NZ Health sector, and I now own a company in the NZ hospitality business. I enjoy being involved in the community and have been on the Board of my children’s school for the last nine years.

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected? The actual construction of the Penlink connection, investment in local infrastructure, and the conservation of our beautiful environment.

How would you address those issues? We must continue to address the issues of a growing population and the associated infrastructure. I am a passionate promoter for substantially improved transport infrastructure to support rapid population growth. I would like to get the Penlink Project underway immediately. Our team is so committed to it that three of us are long term members of the Penlink Now team. We’re the team to fight solidly and consistently for what the people of the area have repeatedly said they want, an early start to a fourlane Penlink that enhances vehicular, pedestrian and public transport access.

Unfortunately, we have had little investment in the long-term infrastructure required to maintain and grow our city, for example, improved transport and storm/ wastewater facilities. We need to understand and ensure appropriate spend of Council finances, to release funding for these important projects.

I understand and love our natural environment. I am passionate about working for the balanced development of our region while retaining our way of life and environment. I want to ensure that the area continues to be a great place to live, work and play.

How can Council improve its performance? I spent 20 years working with large public and private organisations to bring positive progress and change. I would bring those skills to the local board and work collaboratively with other members and staff, to bring about positive progress for our community.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years?

I have a passion to be an advocate for the community I live in. To enable our community to continue to develop while preserving our unique way of life.

Samuel Mills

I am standing for the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board to be the voice for our young people that are part of our wonderful community, being a relatively young person myself at 31 years of age I feel that I am very well placed to ensure the young people are heard, the statistics on youth depression shows the desperate need for them to be heard amongst our community. The measure of my success serving our Local Board I hope to take from youth engagement at the end of my term.

I am currently a practicing lawyer and have a business with offices both in China and in New Zealand, I am very pro business engagement and consider business to be a major part of the success and happiness of our community as a whole.

I have 4 priorities if elected to the Local Board, they are: Immediate start of Penlink through private/public partnerships.

Improvement of our public transport system, including buses and ferries.

Restrictions and enforcement of restrictions on freedom camping.

Transparency regarding the work done by your Local Board, I want to open up all Local Board business to the public so that it can be properly scrutinised and we as Local Board members can be held to proper account.

www.sammills.kiwi | sam@sammills.kiwi | 022 645 7970 Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Authorised by S.Mills, 55 Brian Crescent, Stanmore Bay, Auckland, 022 645 7970

votersguide

24

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

Local Elections 2019

Larry Tompkins

Janet Fitzgerald

My background is from 32 years with Air NZ International as cabin crew, 18 years in real estate, and 24 years serving in the Royal NZ Navy volunteer reserves. I have served on multiple committees including Naval Messes, rugby club and 11 years on the Cabin Crew Union Executive. My wife and I live in Gulf Harbour.

I have lived on the Coast all my life. I am a people person and a good listener. Chair of Facilities and Reserves committee first term and local board deputy chair this term. I am a resource consent commissioner and Justice of the Peace. I have the persistence and perseverance needed to see things through. I look forward to working alongside my three Positively Penlink colleagues and representing you for a further three years.

Local Board

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected?

Virtually every Hibiscus Coast local body candidate for the past decade has struggled unsuccessfully with the same issues – transport, infrastructure and growth.

How would you address those issues? As a centrist politician I will be seeking practical, common sense solutions. I’ll actively lobby Government to start Penlink now.

Auckland’s Mayor will be asked by me to get Council vs Council out of the courts and build a seawall for Ōrewa Beach, just like at Red Beach and Waiwera. Ōrewa Beach is not pristine natural habitat, it’s a completely human habitat, so protect it.

Get on with it and finish the Painton Road bus station.

How can Council improve its performance? Stop wasting ratepayers’ money and time. The lack of safe pedestrian crossings on the 15 kilometres of Whangaparāoa Road

votersguide

Local Board

needs to be looked at.

The Coast is a great place to live and work and deserves the best governance we can give it to make sure it remains that way.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years?

A start date for Penlink and a feeling that their rates are being spent sensibly and practically.

I would like to see a concierge service established in our local council service centres with a direct dial telephone number and using existing employees who are area savvy. At present you only get a connection to Council head office. In my most recent case, I was directed to a council employee working at home in Henderson.

Let’s establish an automatic call service that people who are elderly or disabled and living on their own can opt in to free of charge. It would provide a courtesy call twice a day that, if not answered, will activate follow up by council or accredited staff to ensure that no one is lying injured or immobile for a lengthy period of time.

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected? An earlier delivery of a four lane Penlink.

Equitable funding for our facilities including the Youth Centre, Estuary Arts and Centrestage. Achieving the build of the Men’s Shed and progress at the Community Hub. A pest free area and prevention of sedimentation into our streams and beaches.

How would you address those issues? Advocate to the governing body, Auckland Transport and NZTA for four lane Penlink with public transport, walking and cycling lanes. Deliver it via private/public partnership: build, own, operate, transfer – the BOOT model.

Advocate to the Governing Body for equitable funding across Auckland.

Work with the volunteer groups in our community to continue the trapping of pests, removal of weeds and planting trees. Advocate and work alongside the

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

governing body and planning team to amend the rules in the unitary plan to achieve better outcomes regarding sedimentation into our streams and on our beaches.

How can Council improve its performance? At local board level, I am totally supportive of open and transparent governance. I am part of the Positively Penlink team and we are unanimously in favour of open business meetings in place of workshops. This will allow for the transparent conduct of decision-making processes and decision-making.

We need to have more local contractors working in our area instead of the chosen few delivering services.

Council should give more decision making to local boards. I believe that was the initial aim of the super city.

Better communication and listening to the community.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years?

Four lane Penlink, Men’s Shed building, dog park at the Western Reserve and a better environment for our communities.

votersguide

Local Elections 2019

John Field

25

Leanne Willis

Local Board

My local Council experience is six years as Chair of Planning and Works of Kaikohe Borough Council, until amalgamation of the Far North District Council when I became the Chair of the Community Board for Kaikohe and District, a total of 12 years of service. My main achievements were to get angle parking in the main street. I helped rugby league to build permanent playing fields which are still used to this day. I organised an RSA feature with waterfall as a memorial to soldiers killed in the two wars outside Kaikohe War Memorial Hall. I got Lions Club to build it out of donations and the cost to Council was nil. In 2009 I received a Citizens Award of recognition of Extraordinary Service to the Far North. My passion is helping people and after 52 years am still a front line ambulance officer once a month up north. We moved here to be near our six grandchildren.

We have found Stanmore Bay very peaceful, except at 8am and 5pm. There are plenty of beaches and play areas for our grandchildren. We have joined the RSA and Whangaparāoa Friendship Club and I have been made vice president of the club.

If elected, my priority is to help people as best as I can.

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

Local Board

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected?

Travelling in and out of Whangaparāoa when there is an accident can be a major problem, so Penlink is a major priority. When you see the number of ambulances and fire brigade crews that rush up and down Whangaparāoa every day, the road must be accessible at all times – the two lane system helps, but is stretched.

I think there should be angle parking in Ōrewa from the BP Service Station to the motor camp – adding a little bit of tarseal wouldn’t cost much.

Saving the beachfront at Ōrewa is a priority. Also, the ferry service could be improved and Park ‘n’ Ride needs more parking.

How would you address those issues? Find out who is in charge of each department and go from there.

How can Council improve its performance? By making sure a council office stays in Ōrewa, especially for elderly locals paying accounts etc.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years?

Rates paid in this area, stay in this area.

For the past 29 years I’ve raised a family on the Coast with husband Ken, working in banking, photography, running successful businesses and administering wills and estates for a public organisation. I’m a passionate community contributor initiating successful projects like Angels on the Coast and the 2014 Whangaparaoa Community Christmas Day Lunch. My business background together with passion for the community and communication skills will be an asset on the local board.

What are three key issues that you wish to prioritise if elected?

Transport, community and business.

Transport, because getting to where we live, work and play can be better and needs to cope with population growth.

Penlink will be a game-changer.

Our Coast community is special, and we need to support it. Successful businesses are vital for local jobs and local shops and services that cut the need to travel and provide the range of experiences and offerings – we need to buy local.

How would you address those issues? We are pushing as a team to advocate for projects like Penlink, the East Coast Road to Silverdale North Link, more frequent Gulf Harbour Ferry Services, including weekends, (with Council acquiring full control of the Hammerhead), extending the two lanes south onto the highway

Monster Housewash and Gutters is a father/daughter run business, run by Tony and Ashleigh Jillings. They have lived on the Hibiscus Coast for almost 30 years.

Both Tony and Ashleigh take great pride in their work, ensuring customers get an excellent job from quoting right through to invoicing, with before and after photos always supplied. They can help with all your waterblasting needs: House Washing // Gutter Cleaning // Driveway Cleaning // Deck Cleaning // Fence Cleaning // Industrial Buildings // Commercial Buildings // Vehicles and much more Free Quotes

Contact us today: 0800 2 MONSTER ph 09 478 2119 info@monsterwash.co.nz www.monsterwash.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

from Whangaparāoa Road, new park and rides including Milldale and Whangaparāoa, and much better walking and cycling links – especially the Weiti River walkway and cycleway.

Our sporting, recreational, art and community organisations need fairer support – especially the Youth Centre.

A Buy Local campaign with Coast businesses, and local events to attract shoppers, especially those that tie in with our natural attractions – make our town centres more attractive.

How can Council improve its performance? The local board should make its workshops open and ensure each person brings to the table what is wanted by the community. The local board must listen to the community much more on issues like not selling our marina land at Gulf Harbour. We need more effective support for local events that bring employment and experiences to the Coast.

What do you hope to deliver for ratepayers in the next three years? An earlier start to Penlink. A constructed Weiti Walkway/cycleway. A Buy Local campaign. Fairer support for local clubs and organisations like the Youth Centre.

26

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

Local Elections 2019

votersguide

PER WEEK FOR LIFE

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

health&family

27

‘Stroke mentor’ highlights need to keep moving forward Getting back up after traumatic experiences knock you down is something that ‘the Stoke Mentor’, Wolfgang Wolf, has learned a lot about.

Since having a major stroke in 1990, Wolfgang has focused on helping others overcome trauma through mentoring, coaching and public speaking in New Zealand and internationally.

This month he is the guest speaker at the Rodney Aphasia Group’s meeting in Silverdale. Aphasia, which most commonly results from a stroke, affects a person’s ability to communicate – speak, read or write, and the Rodney Aphasia Group provides support and information for people with the condition, and their caregivers.

Wolfgang says something he always emphasises in his talks with community groups is the importance of adapting to change.

He says his childhood, which included several years in a refugee camp in Germany, created the tenacity and resilience that he needed in bucket-loads while recovering from the stroke.

“You learn once you fall down, to get up and keep going,” he says. “One of the biggest mistakes people make is wanting to go back to their old life. No one can, because once you have had a traumatic experience, such as a stroke, things are not the same.”

He says developing a positive mental attitude is key, but acknowledges that is easier said than done.

“It took me a long time and in fact I’m still working on it,” he says. “Talking with people and coaching others focuses on those positive things.”

His work includes coaching couples where one partner has a disability.

“Your whole relationship is affected,” he says. “It’s critical to remain a partner and not fall into the trap of being mainly a caregiver. That is difficult, and part of the solution is trying to get professional help.”

I can for myself, but not everyone is like that.”

While he adjusted to life in a wheelchair, Wolfgang wrote the book I’m not stupid, just disabled, completed a Bachelor of Social Practice, and a Diploma in Community Development. He also founded Computers Against Isolation, a charity that provides computers for people who live with disabilities, and travels widely giving talks.

The Silverdale talk will cover Wolfgang’s achievements as a stroke survivor but the emphasis will be on his experiences as a disabled traveller.

It is open to the public and will be held on September 26, at Rotary House, 4 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Silverdale, 1.30pm. Anyone interested in attending should email Lisa rodneyaphasiagroup@gmail.com or phone 0210 527 258.

Further info: wolfgangwolfthestrokementor.weebly. com/ Wolfgang’s book is out of print, but a version is available on Amazon/Kindle. Rodney Aphasia Group www.rodneyaphasiagroup.co.nz

Bike fund wheeled out

Auckland Transport’s Community Bike Fund is open for applications, with funding available to support cycling initiatives and projects. The funding can be used can be used for events, activities and the development of resources and information.

Senior walking and cycling coordinator Zane Bray says many community organisations have great ideas to get more people on their bikes, and Auckland Transport is keen to work with them.

“We are really committed to promoting cycling as a transport choice and by enabling these groups, we hope even more people will consider riding a bike as a great option to get around Auckland,” he says. Grants between $300 to $5000 are available, with applications open until September 29. Info: at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/at-community-bike-fund/

Wolfgang Wolf is coming to Silverdale to talk about survival skills that he has drawn on since having a severe stroke in 1990.

“People are used to helping someone who is disabled, which can lead to being over protective, or ‘helicoptering’. I don’t like that – I prefer to do what

Handy location, plenty of parking & easy to find – it was impressive

Trevor Springgay Leigh resident

I needed a colonoscopy procedure. My doctor informed me that I could have the procedure locally, here in Warkworth, at Rodney Surgical.

I found the staff welcoming and helpful. I appreciated the professional help and informed support I received from the surgical staff and nurses throughout the entire procedure.

My advice is to ask your GP if you can have it done locally. Or ring RSC direct.

The best surgeons offering you day care surgeries right here in Warkworth.

Ask your GP if your day care surgery can be done at Rodney Surgical.

RODNEY SURGICAL

w w w. r o d n e y s u r g i c a l c e n t r e . c o . n z • 0 9 4 2 5 1 1 9 0

MODERN

YOUR L OCAL HOSPITAL

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

• PROFESSIONAL• LOCAL

28

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

health&family

Do you have difficulty hearing?

Focus Hearing can help. Don’t buy a hearing aid without talking to us first. We provide: • FREE 15-minute hearing checks • FULL hearing assessments with reports • FREE hearing aid consultations & trials • FREE hearing aid checks & cleaning

• Prices to suit all budgets • Payment options available Southern Cross Health Society Easy Claim available for members

Ph 09 972 5250

today to book an appointment 7 Polarity Rise,

Silverdale

Clinics also at Takapuna and Howick. Registered for ACC, War Pensions and WINZ subsidies.

www.focushearing.co.nz

Health with Richard Bruce, functional fitness coach rich@richardbrucefitness

Letting the outside in

Last century, doctors were still writing prescriptions for “time in nature” to heal patient – so why do we still spend so much time cooped up inside, keeping our windows shut from fresh air and only going outside when ‘it’s just right’.

Scandinavian countries always rank in the top five for the happiest, healthiest people. One of the main reasons is that part of their way of life is to get outdoors despite the weather or challenges of life. They say there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!

Scandinavians talk about how their passion for nature cuts to the heart of what they call friluftsliv (pronounced free-loofts-liv). The expression literally translates as ‘open-air living’.

Unfortunately more and more evidence is coming to light about increasing sickness due to the lack of outdoor time. There is now the term “nature deficit disorder” which suggests children and adults who spend too much time indoors, with artificial lighting, recycled air and on screens may be more likely to develop attention deficit disorders, hyperactivity and depression amongst other things.

We all know that getting outdoors in nature is a good thing, yet we resist it and even limit our kids enjoying the health benefits and the fun that wild weather can bring by keeping them indoors too much. And it’s not just in winter – it’s all year round. Too rainy? Let’s stay inside. Too hot? Let’s stay inside. Too windy?

Let’s stay inside. Too cold? Let’s stay inside.

Moving around in nature has been proven to enhance executive control, working memory and cognitive flexibility. And you don’t need studies or science to tell you that when you get outside in nature you feel so much better – calmer, happier, more focused, energised – you even sleep better. Fresh outdoor air, come rain, wind or shine, it’s extremely powerful! Let’s look at those again with different words: A simple daily walk on a beach, through a field or in the woods can reduce stress, make you feel more joyful, productive, grounded, rested and rejuvenated.

And even better, it’s free! You’d have to spend a good amount to get those sorts of benefits through supplements, fitness classes, medication, doctors and health professionals consults.

So turn off that heater or air conditioner during the day, open your windows and let fresh air flow in – all day long, and at night if you want! If you’re an office worker, get outside more, at least for an hour. Let the kids outside – no matter the weather, and why not bring back that after dinner family walk, even if it’s just around the block or a quick family playtime out in your garden?

Just get out and let the outside in – doctors’ orders!

Healthy fundraising options

If there is a health issue to focus on and support, then September and October seem to be the popular months to get behind them. This month is promoted as Steptember – a fundraiser for the Cerebral Palsy Society, and is also the month for the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation’s Breathe Better September. Mental Health Awareness Week is also coming up, September 23-29. October also includes many health fundraisers including the Red Nose Appeal for Cure Kids and Go Pink for a Day, raising funds for the Breast Cancer Foundation. The Blind Foundation’s street collection will be on October 18 and 19 – at the same time, the Blind Foundation will see a change of name to Blind & Low Vision NZ.

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz/whatson

29

Coast St John celebrates 50 years of service The Hibiscus Coast combined division of St John is celebrating 50 years since local services began.

The division was registered on July 4, 1969, thanks to the advocacy of Ōrewa GP Dr Wyvern Cook.

Barbara Everiss joined as a cadet later that year, when she was 13 years old. She still serves as the treasurer of the Hibiscus Coast area committee.

She says a lot has changed over those 50 years.

“We no longer have the Mounted Horse Division, thank goodness. I’m not much of a horse person,” she says.

In 1971, the community raised $20,000 so the division could purchase their first ambulance.

“That was a huge amount back then. Nowadays they are kitted out with much more stuff and cost $250,000,” Barbara says. “Our ambulances were pretty basic. We manually lifted the stretchers, used an actual paper map, and had to call an advanced paramedic ambulance from the North Shore if we needed more specialised equipment. We didn’t have shifts back then, either. You would just get a call at four in the morning telling you to come in.”

The group started with around eight people, who would meet in the Ōrewa Sea Scouts hall.

After outgrowing the building in 1971, they moved to their current location on Silverdale Street, which was previously a fire station.

Much of the building was rebuilt in 1980, after it was heavily damaged in a storm on July 16, 1978.

Currently, the organisation has 20 full time staff, four relief staff, and 30 volunteers.

While many things have changed, the traditions of the service remain the same.

“That’s the magic of it,” Barbara says. “There is something special about being a part of the ceremonies, especially when, like me, you have

Clockwise from top, Hibiscus Coast combined division servicemen in front of the Dodge ambulance, 1972. Back then, an ambulance cost $20,000, compared with around $250,000 for the latest model like this fully kitted out brand new ambulance which was donated in October last year by a local family. Hibiscus Coast St John’s current building in Silverdale was last renovated in 2011.

generations of your family who are also in St John.

It is still the most enriching experience being a part of something that makes such a big difference.”

To celebrate the 50-year anniversary, there will be a public Open Day on Saturday, September 28,

The LANDMARK SALE * other cruises /departures available

For a full range of available cruises, or to book, contact:

YOU Travel Manly

YOU Travel Orewa

09 424 2345

09 426 5743

Shop 4/49, Rawhiti Rd, Manly Email: travel@youmanly.co.nz

26 Hillary Square, Orewa Email: kiri@youtravel.co.nz

*Terms & Conditions: All offers are correct as at 3 Sep 19, subject to availability, currency fluctuation & may be amended or withdrawn at any time without notice. Valid for new bookings only & not combinable with any other offer. CRUISES: Prices shown valid for bookings prior to 12 December 19 unless otherwise stated, withdrawn or sold out earlier. Prices are per person, twin share, cruise only inclusive of all discounts, taxes, port, handling & government fees (which are subject to change). A non-refundable deposit applies to prices shown. Airfares, hotels, and other land arrangements are additional. Air Credit: Book prior to 12 December 19 and receive Air Credit as stated per stateroom which is applicable to the first two passengers. Amount varies per itinerary, duration and stateroom type and credits are not transferable, non-refundable and not redeemable for cash. Airfares are one way/return economy class and are booked at the discretion of Princess Cruises on their chosen airline. If the cruise booking is cancelled for any reason the flights will be automatically cancelled and cannot be used separately.

GENERAL CONDITIONS: All offers are subject to availability & currency fluctuation & may be amended or withdrawn at any time without notice. Travel Agent professional service fees will apply. Whilst every care is taken to accurately present the information & pricing we reserve the right to correct any errors or omissions. Contact us in-store for further details, terms & conditions.

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

from 10am-2pm at the St John Ambulance base in Silverdale Street. The day will feature displays and demonstrations. Everyone welcome, no registration required.

Info: Barbara Everiss, 027 224 4781.

30

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz/whatson

ARAZO eatery serves up an array of Mediterranean flavours and dishes in an inviting family friendly setting at the heart of Manly Village.

Open for lunch and dinner through the week and breakfast, lunch and dinner on weekends, we offer Allpress Espresso, a fully stocked bar and an exciting a la carte menu.

Boys and girls alike enjoy the game Ti Uru, which is a bit like netball but with hoops placed on the ground.

Dine with us Tuesday to Friday, before 4pm, mention this advert on paying for your meal and get 10% off your total bill. Offer valid until October 31. Hope to see you soon, The Arazo Team.

3/54 Rawhiti Road, Manly | 09 947 5213 team@arazo.nz | www.arazo.nz

KUMEU VINTAGE BRASS and our ...

CITY of AUCKLAND PIPE BAND ... in a

Maori games teach teamwork A Maori games programme funded by ratepayers is being enthusiastically received by students at Stanmore Bay School.

All Year 3 and 4 classes at the school are doing the Kelly Sports Maori games programme this term. The Hibiscus & Bays Local Board granted Kelly Sports $5000 for the programme, so that it can be provided free of charge.

Sessions are run in school time and include an introduction, Te Reo, skill coaching, warm ups and the games themselves.

Jono Sergeant or Kelly Sports, who recently came on board to manage the

programme, is facilitating the games at Stanmore Bay. He says as well as being fun, traditional Maori games teach teamwork – warm ups are based on the kinds of things that warriors would do as they prepared for battle.

The sessions include a rippa version of Ki-o-Rahi and other ball games as well as poi, stick, hoop and hand action games.

Teacher Hesta Prentice says what the children learn is being incorporated into the classroom in various ways and the teachers are also learning the games so they can bring some into the curriculum after the course is over.

Combined Variety Concert Saturday October 19, 2pm-4pm Whangaparaoa College, 15 Delshaw Ave Adults: $20, Children 12 yrs and under: $5 Ticket sales contact Lois phone 021 171 1836 or tickets@kumeubrass.org.nz. Admission by ticket only

Warm ups include action games based on Maori gods – this is Tane Mahuta.

Lunchtime grou

p

Fr o m $ 2 5 p bookings* i n c lu d e s a h e r p e r s o n , beer/coffee ouse wine/ /soft drink *Lunch only . Book now fo r Chris Happy Hour:

tmas & New

Mon-Sun, 3p

year

m-6pm

The family restaurant in the heart of Orewa Beach Bakehouse Lane, Orewa tillgreat latevariety | Phof426 www.shipanchororewa.com | serving fresh 1539 seafood,| steak, The family 2 restaurant in the heart of Orewa Beach | 11am serving great variety of fresh seafood, steak, chicken, vegetarian and kids meal Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters chicken, vegetarian and kids meal

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz/whatson

Night Skies

50 GOLDEN

with James Smith, Hibiscus Coast Astronomical Society hibiscuscoastastronomy@gmail.com

Creatures released on Moon Back in April, an Israeli lunar lander named Beresheet (Hebrew for “In The Beginning”) crashed on the moon. Part of the payload came from a non-profit foundation named the Arch Mission Foundation.

This payload was meant to be an informational ‘back-up’ of humanity and the Earth. It had a DVD which contained 30 million pages of human knowledge, as well as 60,000 etched pages requiring no computer to read, keys to 5000 languages, and DNA samples from 25 people.

Nova Spivack, the chairman of the foundation stated that in the event of a global catastrophe, this informational library, parked on the Moon, could be sufficient to “regenerate the human race.”

Then last month, they came clean.

Also included was a postage stamp sized piece of tape. On this tape were about 10,000 microscopic animals called tardigrades. These creatures are also known as “water bears”. Thousands more were sealed in a resin layer which coated the DVD. Tardigrades are amazing creatures. They are around 0.05 to 1.2 millimetres long and have tubby bodies and eight legs tipped with tiny ‘hands’. When there is a lack of water, these animals can go into a dormant state for decades. They can survive boiling (149°C), freezing (-200°C) and the vacuum and radiation of space. Basically a moon crash means nothing to them.

The only thing needed to reanimate them is water. Recently water ice has been discovered in abundance on the moon – often in the shadows of craters. A lunar crash could easily have melted some of this ice. If conditions are right, some of this melted ice could persist long enough for a colony of living tardigrades to form.

This is a bit of scaremongering. Actually their chances of forming a colony are very low. Even if the tardigrades did somehow find liquid water while still on the moon, without food, air and a moderate ambient temperature, they wouldn’t last very long once they revived. They are also susceptible to Ultra Violet light which is found in abundance on the moon.

Technically, international guidelines on interplanetary contamination don’t prohibit sending biological matter and organisms to the lunar surface, since most living creatures can’t survive there. But no governing body had a say in the tardigrades at all. The Arch Mission team had approval to add a digital library on the lander, but they didn’t inform Israel or the United States about the added water bears.

This raises important questions. Should we be sending animals up to the moon in the first place? Is it ethical? Should there be any accountability for planetary and lunar protection?

We sent nearly indestructible creatures up to a world we barely know or understand. Will we do the same thing to Mars, Titan, Europa or Enceladus, especially with recent growth in the private space industry?

These are important questions and considerations we should be making before we attempt to colonize Mars and beyond.

If you go outside this week and look up at the moon, think of the thousands of tardigrades stranded there.

31

TH

2019

A SNAPSHOT OF OCTOBER’S EVENTS WEDNESDAY 2 OCTOBER

“Golden Day” Mobility Scooter Gymkhana, Vintage Cars, Music Summerset Retirement Village 4-6 OCTOBER

Festivals of flowers & Praise Methodist Church Hall 9-10 OCTOBER

Children’s Walk & Early Settlers Craft activities Warkworth Library/Masonic Hall

BIG DAY OUT - SUNDAY 13 OCTOBER 9am - 3pm Street Food, Stalls and Street Entertainment Queen Street to Baxter Street

9am-6pm Street food garden bar bands & entertainment - Wharf Street Throughout the day Dog Training Displays New World Walking Trolley Parade - 1.30pm, Neville Street Floats, Bands and Trolleys - Great prizes up for grabs FRIDAY 18 OCTOBER

The Great Debate

presented by Toastmasters 5.30pm Town Hall, sponsored by Mike Pero SATURDAY 19 OCTOBER

Movie Night - The Greatest Showman

from 7.00pm movie screening at dusk Shoesmith Domain SUNDAY 20 OCTOBER

Teddy Bear Picnic & Parade

10.00am Warkworth Museum Open day SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER

Ukulele Festival - Jade River Ukes & Guest Marion Burns Warkworth RSA 10-5pm

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND EVENTS WWW.KOWHAIFESTIVAL.NZ | FACEBOOK.COM/KOWHAIFESTIVAL

2083 East Coast Road, Silverdale

phone 0800 700 987

THE 2019 KOWHAI FESTIVAL IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

www.thelostflowershed.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

32

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localsport

Sailors toast Gulf Harbour Yacht Club’s 30-year history ‘We need a new yacht club’ was the topic of discussion for five keen yachties one Saturday morning late in 1989 after a night out socialising.

One of the five, Tom Baker, became the founding commodore of the Gulf Harbour Yacht Club, and on December 5, 1989 the club received its Certificate of Incorporation.

In 1990 Peter Blake became the club’s first Patron, and a membership of 321 keenly participated in the first winter racing series.

Back then, racing was held only on weekends and a temporary clubhouse, by way of a large marquee, was kindly sponsored by Lion Breweries, although it had to be erected on Friday and packed up on Monday.

A new clubhouse was designed by members Sue and Miles Cross, and after a great effort by a dedicated team, sufficient funds were raised, bank loans obtained and construction completed within two years.

However, it didn’t take a clubhouse to create a powerboat committee, fishing competitions, summer twilight racing, a cruising series, a full racing calendar, and a youth sailing programme, as these activities were all well underway by the time the opening ribbon was cut.

Tom Baker officiated at the clubhouse’s opening ceremony on July 11, 1992 with Peter Blake represented by his friend, well-known sailing commentator Peter Montgomery.

Today, there is still a strong core of original members who participate in a wide range of sailing activities and regularly attend club functions such as the Friday evening dinners, marine education evenings, after-race functions and club visits to theatres, films and wineries.

The club’s Youth Sailing Programme is run in conjunction with the NZ Sailing Trust that was inspired by Sir Peter Blake, and is working with the students of Whangaparaoa College, taking them sailing on Lion NZ for day and week-end trips for training in teamwork, leadership and understanding the marine environment. For a carefully selected few, these training trips culminate in a 10-day Leadership Course aboard the Spirit of New Zealand.

To further encourage young people to experience the thrills of sailing, after having completed at least a day sail on Lion NZ, they will be invited to crew on Gulf Harbour Yacht Club members’ yachts during club races.

Launch membership is slowly increasing again as some older members retire from sailing, mostly because they say that winding halyard and sheet winches seems to get harder with the years. However, cruising rallies remain popular – these events end up with everyone anchoring in a sheltered bay for beach games and a barbecue.

The location of the Gulf Harbour Yacht Club gives its members the

From top, Commodore Tom Baker, left, and Peter Montgomery cut the ribbon at Gulf Harbour Yacht Club. The “weekend clubhouse”

enormous benefit of already being out in the Hauraki Gulf, thanks to the foresight that was shown by the founding members back in 1989.

The club celebrates its 30th anniversary over the weekend of September 27-29

including a dinner where guests will be joined by second patron, Olympian Barbara Kendall. Peter Montgomery will MC the occasion, which is to be hosted by current commodore, John Butcher.

Get a $50 GIFT VOUCHER towards your next holiday, on ad. presentation of this

SALE

WHAT I OFFER: • Most competitive pricing on Airline tickets, accommodation, touring, cruising and travel insurance • A one stop shop – I can package the entire holiday together according to your needs • Available 7 days a week • I research the BEST DEALS and select the best suppliers to suit the customer • I am a mobile travel agent who can come to you • I offer a personalised service.

ON NOW NZ’S LARGEST RANGE OF SPAS OVER 120 ON DISPLAY SAVE UP TO $6,000 ON NEW EUROPEAN STYLE MODELS COME VIEW OUR SHOWROOM

Patty Brown – Travel Broker, Orewa, Auckland pattyB#thetravelbroker 022 108 5158 | patty.brown@thetravelbrokers.co.nz thetravelbrokers.co.nz/pattybrown

OPEN 7 DAYS

a member of

6/26 Karepiro Drive, Whangaparaoa PH 09 947 0013 • MOB 0220 733 713 www.prestigepools.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localsport

Silverdale

Electrical

“Totally Dependable Electrical Professionals”

SCOREBOARD A roundup of sports activities and events in the district

Petanque Improving youth mental health by creating a sense of community was a focus point at both the Local Body election candidates meeting and the Rodney Neighbourhood Support AGM last month – but it seems that some of the youth are getting it sorted themselves. Elliot Murdoch, 20, organised more than 50 people aged 17 to 27 to play popular field games Spotlight and Kick the Bucket at the Ōrewa skatepark on Friday, August 30. Elliot arranged the event to give young people some uncomplicated fun. “You can forget about uni, work and whatever else you have on and act like a kid again,” he said. However, it is fair to say that some of the behaviour, by a few of the partipants, was immature, rather than childlike – including general larking around and drinking. “It was crazy with everyone all over the place,” Elliot said. “But I’m pretty stoked with how it turned out. I got good feedback from people playing and even some who were just watching, so that was really good.” He is unsure whether he will hold another public event, but if so he says he will ask the young people what they would like it to include.

Having featured in Hibiscus Matters several times for his prowess in judo, it is perhaps no surprise that Jonny Milne chose the sport for his Year 8 science project investigation. Jonny recently won Whangaparaoa College’s Year 8 Science Fair, with a project that shows which judo throws are the most effective for competitors of short stature. The contest was sponsored by the Lions Club of Whangaparaoa. Jonny’s project, along with another 10, are entered in the North Shore Intermediate Schools’ Fair this month.

Hibiscus Petanque is an established & growing club, now located behind Bowls Orewa Clubrooms. Club Days every Tuesday & Wednesday 9am to 12pm and Sundays 1pm to 4pm. Visitors keen to learn welcomed, and can lend boules to “try your hand”. Info: Ph Jill 021 108 3165 Social Petanque group, known as “SPROGS” (Stanmore Petanque Recreational Oldies Group Sessions). Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre Thursday mornings, from 9am to approx 12pm. For all skill levels including beginners, Free. Info: Ph Graeme 428 4339 or 027 490 2903.

Harriers and Triathlon

Hibiscus Coast Harriers and Triathlon Club running group, Red Beach Surf Club, Wednesdays 6pm. Ocean Swimming: 8am Saturdays, Manly Sailing Club, 6pm Tuesdays, Stanmore Bay Boat Club. Info: hibiscuscoasthtc.co.nz

Tennis

Manly Park Seniors Tennis Club, located on 56 Laurence St, Manly. If you are 40 years or over and have played tennis in your past, you are welcome. Our courts are available 7 days a week. Info: Club phone 09 424 4144, or visit www.sporty.co.nz/manlyseniors

Yoga

Yoga, Pranayam (Yogic Breathing Techniques), Meditation, and cleansing your energy field/Aura. Pay what you can. Indian teacher. Every Sunday, 4.30pm-5.30pm, Orewa Community Hall. Info: Ph 021 143 9679.

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

With over 30 years experience, run by locals for locals! Contact Bryan Fairgray Give our friendly team a call today, we’re here to help.

Phone 09 426 3852 | Mobile 027 493 3665 silverdale@laserelectrical.co.nz

IS THIS YOU? Spinal pain Headaches Mood changes Early arthritis Altered blood pressure Lennon AJPM Vol.4 No.1 1994

5 4 $

including Full consultation, al xrays* any necessary spin at $230 Normally valued ailable limited spaces av

*Xrays taken at Glenfield office

Forward Head Posture Can Lead To

HIBISCUS CHIROPRACTIC OREWA Lvl 2 Hillary Shop, 1 Alice Ave www.hibiscuschiro.co.nz

mobile 022 3914994

gian@northshorechiro.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

33

34

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz

Green scene

Blast from the Past

with Richard Chambers, Hibiscus Coast Forest & Bird. hibiscuscoast.branch@forestandbird.org.nz

with Susanne Wilson, Hibiscus Coast History on Facebook

Busy time for birds There is a tremendous amount of activity in my garden right now, as we come into spring and birds are beginning nesting. The tui, in particular, always seem to be busy. Over the winter months, I put a dish of sugar water out for these nectar feeders. Usually, I would get one or two regular visitors, but recently Photo, Richard Chambers I have had as many as seven birds at a time, feathers fluffed up and jostling for the feeder, providing great entertainment. The sugar water helps them through the winter but now that spring is here there will be a succession of other food sources to attract their attention towards a healthier diet.

A few good garden plants for tui are already in flower: I’ve had them searching out nectar in my almond blossoms, camellias and magnolias. Coastal pittosporum is flowering, too, and the tui love it. A few days ago, I came across the first kowhai flowers of the season, which tui will flock to over the next month or two. Places such as Waterfall Gully in Shakespear Regional Park, and areas of Wenderholm Regional Park are well worth a visit during this time. The spectacle of 10 or 20 tui in a single tree can be stunning.

I use a fairly weak sugar solution for tui – a big tablespoon of sugar to one cup of water. This keeps the tui going when there isn’t much food around, and when better foods are available, they’ll choose them over the sugar water and stop visiting my feeder altogether. This way I’m not interfering too much with the birds’ natural feeding patterns.

In the same vein, putting out bread for birds isn’t good in spring. Blackbirds and thrushes can get hooked on feeding their chicks this easy meal when the chicks really need protein in the form of worms or slugs and snails. An Auckland study

by Josie Galbraith also showed feeding bread has the effect of bringing more sparrows and mynas into your garden and reducing the number of fantails, grey warblers and other native birds.

A thrush which built a nest in my garden, is right now sitting on eggs, which must be about due to hatch. Grey warblers will have nested and many other species will be getting started. Because of this, it’s a good time to make sure you have no rats and possums around. If you need help with getting this started contact Hibiscus Coast Forest and Bird or the Auckland Council for information.

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sep 18

Sep 19

Sep 20

Whangaparaoa Library has seen many changes over the years. Originally it was based at Manly shops before it was moved to its current location opposite Coast Plaza. As a child in the 1980s I recall a little wooden building on what is the current site, with the Whangaparaoa Lions Club building behind it. The Lions’ building was removed for the construction of the new library. In fact, multiple renovations have occurred over the years, as a very stylish new brick and cedar building replaced the old house in the mid-1980s. As our population expanded, further extensions were required and this one, pictured, was in the early 1990s. As demand grew, a whole new library was constructed on the site in the early 2000s, changing life for book lovers all over our peninsula. Photo, courtesy Natalie Dunn

JP evening service trialled

Access to Justice of the Peace services continues to grow. The desk set up in Silverdale Mall, where a JP can be found on Saturdays, 10.30am-12.20pm, has been joined by a new desk adjacent to the main entrance of Farmers where a JP will be stationed on Thursday evenings, 5pm-7pm. The Thursday service commences on October 3. This is the only evening JP Service Desk on the Hibiscus Coast and will be trialled for three months. The service desk will be capable of handling certification of copies, statutory declarations, affidavits and witnessing of signatures.

Auckland Area Sea Watch Hibiscus Matters Seawatch – Carpetlink Whangaparaoa Sat

Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sep 21

Sep 22

Sep 23

Sep 24

Sep 25

Sep 26

Sep 27

Sep 28

Sep 29

Sep 30

Oct 1

Oct 2

Oct 3

Oct 4

3:41am 0.7 4:18am 0.7 4:57am 0.7 5:39am 0.7 12:25am 2.9 1:16am 2.8 2:14am 2.8 3:18am 2.9 4:25am 3.0 5:29am 3.1 12:02am 0.5 12:57am 0.3 2:49am 0.2 3:40am 0.2 4:29am 0.2 5:17am 0.3 12:05am 3.3 9:59am 3.1 10:36am 3.0 11:15am 3.0 11:59am 2.9 6:25am 0.8 7:19am 0.8 8:21am 0.8 9:28am 0.8 10:33am 0.6 11:33am 0.5 6:28am 3.3 8:23am 3.4 9:15am 3.6 10:05am 3.6 10:54am 3.6 11:43am 3.5 6:06am 0.4

Tide 3:53pm 0.7 4:31pm 0.8 5:13pm 0.9 6:00pm 0.9 12:49pm 2.9 1:47pm 2.9 2:52pm 2.9 3:57pm 3.0 4:59pm 3.1 5:57pm 3.3 12:28pm 0.3 2:20pm 0.2 3:11pm 0.2 4:00pm 0.2 4:50pm 0.3 5:40pm 0.4 12:33pm 3.3 6:32pm 0.6 6:51pm 3.5 8:43pm 3.6 9:35pm 3.6 10:25pm 3.6 11:15pm 3.5 6:54pm 1.0 7:55pm 1.0 9:00pm 0.9 10:04pm 0.8 11:05pm 0.7 Times 10:20pm 3.0 10:59pm 3.0 11:40pm 2.9 6:18am 6:14pm

Sun Fishing Guide Moon

6:16am 6:15pm

Best At

G

2:42am 3:04pm

6:15am 6:15pm

Best At

G

3:26am 3:49pm

6:13am 6:16pm

Best At

G

4:12am 4:36pm

6:12am 6:17pm

Best At

F

5:01am 5:27pm

6:10am 6:18pm

Best At

F

5:54am 6:21pm

6:09am 6:19pm

Best At

B

6:49am 7:18pm

6:07am 6:19pm

Best At

F

7:47am 8:16pm

6:06am 6:20pm

Best At

G

8:46am 9:15pm

6:04am 6:21pm

Best At

G

9:45am 10:14pm

6:03am 6:22pm

Best At

B

10:42am 11:10pm

7:01am 7:23pm

Best At

B

11:38am

7:00am 7:23pm

Best At

B

12:05am 1:32pm

6:58am 7:24pm

Best At

B

1:59am 2:26pm

6:57am 7:25pm

Best At

B

2:53am 3:19pm

6:55am 7:26pm

Best At

B

3:46am 4:13pm

6:54am 7:27pm

Best At

B

4:40am 5:07pm

Best At

B

5:34am 6:01pm

Last New Quarter Moon Set 8:26am Set 8:56am Set 9:30am Set 10:10am Rise 12:51am Rise 1:51am Rise 2:48am Rise 3:41am Rise 4:29am Rise 5:12am Rise 5:51am Rise 7:28am Rise 8:03am Rise 8:39am Rise 9:16am Rise 9:56am Set 12:24am Rise 9:50pm Rise 10:49pm Rise 11:50pm Set 10:55am Set 11:48am Set 12:49pm Set 1:56pm Set 3:07pm Set 4:20pm Set 5:34pm Set 7:47pm Set 8:59pm Set 10:09pm Set 11:18pm Rise 10:40am *Not for navigational purposes.

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.

For the latest wind and swell information for the Auckland area go to: www.tidespy.com/?place=3005

669 Whangaparaoa Road | Phone 428 3168 | melissa@carpetlink.co.nz Proud Sponsors of: Hibiscus Coast Boating Club

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

35

Advertise your business here for only $64+gst per insertion. Phone 427 8188 or email sales@localmatters.co.nz or sellit@localmatters.co.nz

Know

your local trades

Mobile IT Service For All Your Computer Headaches With: • Mac & Windows Computers • Software & Hardware Issues • Printers • Email • Internet • Viruses

MacIT Computer Services Jarrod Molloy What your company specialises in: Computer Repair for both Apple Mac and Microsoft Windows desktops, laptops hardware and software issues.

What are the essential skills and experience that you bring to this trade/service? I have over 15 years experience within this industry and more than 20 years customer service experience , however I am always constantly learning and upskilling to stay abreast of the current technologies and software applications used. This is an extremely fast growing industry whereby you need to stay up with the play.

What is it about this job that gets you out of bed in the morning and keeps you motivated? I love what I do, I have always enjoyed the technical and customer services side of what I do. I get a lot of enjoyment in making someone else’s day, putting them at ease, taking their headache away and making them smile.

Tell us about your favourite aspect of the job, and/or the key piece of equipment in your toolbox and why you would not be without it. The best part of my job is seeing the satisfaction on a clients face, knowing that I have solved there problem or problems. The main key piece of equipment in my toolbox, is not my tools or my software, it’s the knowledge that I have garnered from working within the IT industry for over 15 years, it is this knowledge that I put to use most working weeks.

Customers can count on you because? I always go above and beyond to help others. My testimonials on my google business page speak for themselves.

BUILDERS LTD

Additions • Alterations Renovations • Decks Bathrooms • Fences Retaining • Pergolas Licensed Certified Builder

Andrew Graham 021 629 046 andrew@adgbuilders.co.nz www.adgbuilders.co.nz

www.macit.co.nz |

Contact Jarrod 0210 252 3262

MacIT.computerservices

Call Andy to supply, install, service and repair all major Heat Pump brands & for all your Electrical and Refrigeration needs

ph 021 819 733

or email andy@airpower.net.nz CALL US US CALL 09 09 426-0126 426-0126

CCTV CCTV

ACCESS CONTROL CONTROL ACCESS Address: Address: 182 182 Hibiscus Hibiscus Coast Coast Highway Highway Orewa Orewa

Wherever Wherever you you are are in in the the Rodney Rodney District District we we are are your your local local alarm alarm and and locksmiths locksmiths specialists specialists

A Pump Doctor Repairs • Sales • Service We’ll keep you pumping ...

Ph Cedric 027 443 0654 Coastal Curtains and Blinds – Mobile Service

Buyers of: Copper • Brass • Aluminium • Lead • Steel • Stainless Steel • Batteries • Cable • Machinery • Electric Motors • Cars • Car Removal. Pick up or drop off bins available

Phone 0800 14 15 30 • 426 9150 35 Forge Road, Silverdale

Drapes • Roman Blinds • Nets/voiles • Rods & Tracks • Blinds Verticals, Venetians, Wooden • Roller Sunscreen & Blockout Blinds CALL NOW FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE – Phone 027 69 89 925 pauline@coastalcurtains.co.nz | www.coastalcurtains.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

36

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz

Advertise your business here for only $64+gst per insertion. Phone 427 8188 or email sales@localmatters.co.nz or sellit@localmatters.co.nz

Hibiscus Tiling

New Blinds made here in Auckland + Cleaning and Repair services Call now on 0800 999 229 or visit www.blindworks.co.nz

Exterior/Interior/Roofs/Staining

Wall & floor tiling • Accredited Waterproofer Underfloorheating • Free consultations and quotations • 26 years experience

Harley 021 0220 8727

Phone Darcy 021 482 308

Husband & Wife team • harley.mcvay@xtra.co.nz

HBC Community House

CAR SEAT RENTAL

Long or short term hire

Local & Reliable All sizes available Ph 0800 300 666 discountbins.co.nz

ERIC ODDI FOR BLINDS Offering a large range of styles and colours.

Cleaning and repairs available.

CALL FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE

*free bolt install (*conditions apply)

We can check if your car seat is installed correctly

Trained technician Phone 426 3598

HEAT PUMP CLEANING

SPECIALISTS

Heat pump cleaning & servicing HRV, DVS, Smartvent & Moisture Master filter replacements.

Phone 0800 218 555 or 021 372 620

10% discount (heat pump cleaning only) for Gold Card holders

Serving you Rodney wide since 1995.

www.heatpumpclean.co.nz

Email: eoddi@clear.net.nz

Ph Neil 0800 225 327

HANDYMAN – Gardens & Landscaping • Painting & Decorating • Fencing & Decks • Paths & Paving • Bathroom & Kitchen • Renovations • FREE QUOTES

Call now 0800 248 229 • www.hireahubby.co.nz

HOUGHTON UPHOLSTERY Commercial, Domestic | Design & Recovery | Cut foam to measure

10 Puriri Ave, Orewa | Ph 426 6176

0274 436 222 | pat_and_houghty@hotmail.com

Dog Grooming Residential, commercial and industrial.

No job too big, small or difficult!

1 Poplar Lane, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparaoa | Ph Mark 021 960 793 Email: craigmathers58@gmail.com www.hibiscuscoastscaffolding.co.nz |

Come and visit our team of professional Dog groomers.

70F Grand Drive, Orewa

p: 09 426 3274

e: k9groomersnz@gmail.com w: www.ezybook.co.nz/pages/K9groomers

mckenzie DECORATORS

Robert McKenzie – Master Painter & Decorator We service and repair all makes and models P. 09 427 5748 M. 021 689 700 E. office@firstauto.co.nz

Unit 3, 8 Curley Ave Silverdale 0944 www.firstauto.co.nz

For all Mechanical Repairs, WOFs, Servicing

FREE espresso coffee while you wait • Ph: 424 8705 15 Arklow Ln, Whangaparaoa • hbcwof@yahoo.co.nz

HIBISCU HIBISCUSS

GARAGE DOORS GARAGE DOORS

Free café coffee with WOF or service while you wait Gustos

ws Croest N

Phone 428 7969

WOF • Tyres • Batteries • Mechanical repairs Cambelts • CV Boots • Air-conditioning

8/667 Whangaparaoa Road, Mon-Fri 7.30am-5pm, Sat 8am-12pm

www.nocowboys.co.nz & type in GT Automotive

++ openers openers

Repairs all door doormakes makesand and models.

Repairs&&service service to to all models.

Automatic repairsand andreplacements. replacements.

Automaticopeners openers repairs New allatatlocal local prices.

Newdoors doorsand and openers, openers, all prices.

027 476 2741 HibiscusGarageDoors. co.nz 027 476 2741oror(09) (09)426 426 0851 0851 HibiscusGarageDoors. co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Interior/exterior/wallpaper/roofs • Free quotes Over 30 years exp • References available.

Ph 0274 933 403

robert@mackenziedecorators.co.nz

www.mckenziedecorators.co.nz

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

37

Advertise your business here for only $64+gst per insertion. Phone 427 8188 or email sales@localmatters.co.nz or sellit@localmatters.co.nz Silverdale Computer Support Services At a fair price, with a personal touch Servicing the Hibiscus Coast.

We cater primarily for the 55+ age group and assist small business owners.

APPLE MAC & WINDOWS SUPPORT AT YOUR PREMISES

One-on-one tutoring – discounts available 32 Seamount Dr, Red Beach | Ph 09 427 8980 M: 022 543 2154 | E: daniel@silvercomp.co.nz

FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING AND CARPENTRY NEEDS Decks • Bathrooms • Pergolas • Doors • Renovations • Fencing Gates • Maintenance • Gib fitter • Plastering • Painting • Kitchens CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE Graham Harfield | Phone 09 428 4770 | 027 428 4770 Email: graham@top2bottom.co.nz | www.top2bottom.co.nz

TEAMWORK

SCAFFOLDING

Have a look on our website to see the huge range of items we can custom brand to suit your needs.

www.positiveimage.co.nz For any queries, please contact us on:

Residential Specialists Friendly professional & dependable service Free quotes available

John Drakeley p: 021 150 6994 e: teamworkscaffolding@gmail.com

09 424 1262

sales@positiveimage.co.nz 18A Silverdale Street, Silverdale

Relax, your precious possessions are safe with us.

• Secure & monitored premises • Large ground floor drive-up units 9–21 David Sidwell Pl, Whangaparaoa

Ph 09 424 6091 www.selfstorageworld.co.nz

Come and see Cecily and her team for friendly advice on 1000’s of tiles.

09 424 1214 ▪ 663 Whangaparaoa Rd

House Inspections

PRE-PURCHASE HOUSE INSPECTION SERVICE

Bobby Furci 021 237 1925 0800 80 80 45 • www.wuhi.co.nz

Advertise your business here for only $64+gst per insertion.

PROUD SPONSOR OF THE COMMUNITY NOTICES A NEW JUSTICE OF THE PEACE SERVICE DESK 3 month trial period will be set up in the Silverdale Mall adjacent to the lifts on the main floor, commencing August 31 and the desk will operate on Saturdays, 10am12.30pm. A new desk will also operate adjacent to the main entrance of Farmers on Thursday evenings. The service will commence 3 October and run from 5pm-7pm every Thursday. This is the only evening JP Service Desk on the Coast and will be trialled for a 3 month period. The Service desk will be capable of handling certification of copies, anti-money laundering certification, electronic certification, statutory declarations, affidavits and witnessing of signatures. Please remember that all Justices of the Peace are volunteers and give of their time freely.

A TALK AT THE THEOSOPHICAL SOCIETY Sunday 22nd September at 2pm. - Two speakers “The Souls’s quest to find is way home” and “Who am I in the light of Theosophy”? All welcome Donation $5 including tea and cake 9E Forest Glen Orewa Ph 09 427 0149 EMPATHY SUICIDE BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT group. Last Monday of month except December and January.

Next meeting Monday September 30, 7pm, Orewa: Hibiscus Coast Community House, Western Reserve,

214 Hibiscus Coast Highway. Contact Susan 021 884 162, or message on Facebook (Empathy support group), for more info or to meet with one of us.

FRIDAY ART GROUP Fridays 9am12pm @ Orewa Community Church.

Exercise your artistic abilities and meet with like minded people. Ph Alan Smith 09 962 4929.

HIBISCUS MEN’S SHED Coffee Club meetings on the first Wednesday of each month, with a speaker, at the Red Beach Surf club, 11am. Tea/ coffee, cover cost $5. Info: Maurice, 027 2790 179 HISTORICAL SOCIETY Coffee Morning Tuesday 22nd October Bring along a curiosity of historic interest to discuss over coffee in the Old Parsonage 15 Wainui Rd, Silverdale NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR LABOUR’S 2020 candidate in the Rodney electorate Nominations have opened for those who wish to be the Labour candidate for the Rodney electorate in the 2020 General Election. Nomination forms and more information can be found at labour.org.nz/party_resources.

Nominees must be members of the Labour Party. Nominations for the Rodney electorate close October 25.

RETIRED MEN AND WOMEN are invited to attend a meeting to be held the Gulf Harbour Yacht Club at 10am, Wednesday 25 September to support the formation of the Rebus Club of Gulf Harbour. This will be the 4th Rebus

Club for the Hibiscus Coast and the 54th for New Zealand. Ph Peter 09 424 7759, Graeme 09 424 7115, Norma 427 5216 or check out our website hbcp44. wixsite.com/rebus-gulf-Harbour RODNEY APHASIA GROUP would like to invite you to our September 26 meeting, 1.30pm Rotary House, Silverdale.

Come and listen to inspirational Guest speaker & Stroke Survivor Wolfgang Wolf ‘The Stroke Mentor’ talking about his travelling experiences in a wheelchair. Wolf is a motivational speaker/author/ Stroke Counsellor and founder of a charity called Computers Against Isolation. For further information go to wolfgangwolfthestrokementor.weebly. com/, computersagainstisolation.weebly. com/Further information contact Lisa: rodneyaphasiagroup@gmail.com REIKI 2 TRAINING DAY, Sunday.

September 29th, contact Eileen 021 152 5470 for further details. Reiki Share, Sunday, October 6th, 10am-12pm. The Theosophical Hall, 9 Forest Glen, Orewa.

Gold coin koha on the day please.

SILVERDALE & DISTRICTS HISTORICAL SOCIETY (Inc) & Silverdale Pioneer Village. Auckland Heritage Festival at the Pioneer Village 5th - 28th October. Open every Saturday and Sunday 10am -3pm during the Festival. www.silverdalemuseum.org.nz TABLE TALK WEEKLY SOCIAL CHAT All ages welcome and encouraged to

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

attend. Every Wednesday, first event – Whangaparaoa Library, 1.30pm.

TAI CHI CLASSES Harmonious integration, strengthening and refinement of mind, energy and body.

Exploring the principles of mindfulness, softness, balance and coordination through movement. All interested parties welcome. Wednesdays: 6pm7.30pm Sundays: 9am-10.30am Location: Whangaparaoa School Hall. Cost: $10 WHANGAPARAOA COLLEGE AND COMMUNITY HUB Car fair fundraiser. We will be holding the Car fair at Whangaparaoa College’s Upper Car-park, September 21.

RSVP cars to sell: docs.google.com/ forms/d/e/1faipqlscfwn22owtmbwuga_ n80doqqod1tdla4w4mznx5x8mu5_l6tq/ viewform?usp=sf_link Other items with stalls (food, accessories, toys, etc): docs. google.com/forms/d/e/1faipqlsel85fxs6u rh0fzfwxds7e5g3xsnmebeentinobwga5g ntfg/viewform?usp=sf_link

PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE OF AGM ESTUARY ARTS CHARITABLE TRUST To be held on Friday 20th September 2019, at the Estuary Arts Centre, 214 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa, at 7pm.

MAYGROVE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION AGM Sunday 22 September at Maygrove Rest Home 112 Riverside Rd at 2pm. Afternoon tea to follow. All welcome. Ph 426 3742

38

| Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz

Classifiedadvertising

CLEANER – FASTIDIOUS, attention to detail. Honest, Refs available. WaiweraWhangaparaoa. Ph 027 488 4693.

HOME & MAINTENANCE GARDEN MAINTENANCE

New gardens, clean ups. Specialising in maintenance & improvement.

Phone Dave 021 950 154 HANDYMAN AVAILABLE for all those odd jobs. Ph Nev 021 399 226 @ Nev’s Odd Jobs. Great rates. Local & reliable.

SECURITY ALARM SERVICING Local technician, 20 years experience.

Ph 027 553 3032 or 09 428 5887 BUILDER SEMI RETIRED – for all those small building jobs. Good rates. Ph/txt Rob 021 167 2155 or 09 426 2960 ELECTRICIAN – SEMI RETIRED Affordable rates. Ph Bruce 021 241 0000.

HANDYMAN Carpentry, small jobs, rubbish removal etc Phone/Txt Dave 027 420 5155.

HANDYMAN SERVICES Kitset assembly. Flat packs. Delivery & pickup.

Ph Daniel 021 347 733.

A PUMP DOCTOR will keep you pumping. Ph 0274 430 654.

DRIVEWAY SPECIALIST Repair washouts, drainage, re-metal, Bobcat – digger hire. Ph Geoff 027 494 5996.

PAUL THE PAINTER 027 550 3635 interior & exterior.

PEST CONTROL, Flies, spiders, cockroaches, ants, rodents, wasps.

Competitive prices. Ph 426 2253.

ROY’S MOWING LAWNS – Free quotes & pension discounts. Ph 021 506 908, email royslawnmowing@gmail.com WATERBLASTING & CHEMICAL HOUSE WASHING. Careful service, reasonable rates. Ph 426 2253.

CLEANING SERVICES

SITUATIONS VACANT

WATER FILTERS - Underbench, Whole house, UV & water spotting, Work Guaranteed. Ph Steve 027 478 7427 steve@aquafilter.co.nz

HEALTH & BEAUTY FINGERNAILS & TOENAILS CUT & FILED includes foot massage. $30 pp or $50 for 2. I will come to you. Ph 424 0676.

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

HAIRDRESSING

A SMART REPAIR Service for F&P smartdrive washers, F&P/Simpson dryers. Prompt service ph 021 168 7349.

MOBILE HAIRCUTS European trained hairstylist to visit you at your time, your place. Sabine Ph 426 9652 021 149 8598

CLEANING SERVICES

WANTED TO BUY

CLEANER – FASTIDIOUS, attention to detail. Honest, Refs available. WaiweraWhangaparaoa. Ph 027 488 4693.

TRANSPORT DRIVING MISS DAISY

Safe, reliable, Total Mobility Scheme & ACC provider; Phone 021 035 0432; 428 4490 hibiscus@drivingmissdaisy.co.nz

DVDS & VIDEOS VIDEOS TRANSFERRED to DVD/hard drive. Phone Te Totara Video 09 422 5710 or 021 777 385.

SERVICES WHANGAPARAOA RECORDING STUDIO: Vocals to backing tracks, original projects, vocal training and vocal PA hire. Ph Dennis 021 115 5233

DINING OUT FRESH SNAPPER CHIPS N SALAD, lambs fry n bacon, scallop salad, portabello mushrooms n toast. WedSun, Walnut Cafe ph 427 5570.

TO BUY, RECORDS/LP’S Ph 428 1587.

VEGETARIAN COOK FOR RETREAT CENTRE, SILVERDALE Position available for lunches and possible dinner for 11 women.

9.30am-2.30/4.30pm. Availability two to six days per week. $18/hour. Nonsmoker, own transport required. Send CV to: retreatsilverdale2@gmail.com PART TIME BARBER We are looking for a casual unisex barber male or female to help in our small local barber shop please ph Sheree 0273 720 791.

PART TIME/FULL TIME JOB. A varied position based in Red Beach, more so in Spring/Summer. Computer skills a bonus. Please call 09 537 2116 VOLUNTEER SECRETARY - Up to 8 hours per month for Hibiscus Coast Branch of Forest & Bird. Attendance at monthly committee meeting required.

Please reply to hibiscuscoast.branch@ forestandbird.org.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

TUITION NCEA – ACCOUNTING, ECONOMICS AND MATHS Ph 09 424 7315.

WING CHUN KUNG FU Looking for person (s) with Wing Chun experience to train with Warren, ph 021 171 5098

WANTED RETIRED LADY REQUIRES FLAT to rent. Good references. Also available for dog and house sitting. Ph 426 5539.

Sudoku 5 7 8 6 2 9 4 3 1

6 4 1 5 8 3 2 9 7

3 2 9 1 4 7 8 6 5

2 5 6 8 9 4 7 1 3

9 8 3 7 6 1 5 2 4

4 1 7 3 5 2 9 8 6

T H E S O L U

8 3 4 9 1 5 6 7 2

T

7 9 5 2 3 6 1 4 8

I

O N

1 6 2 4 7 8 3 5 9

Join us for services throughout the month: St Chad’s Orewa Sunday 8am & 9.30am Wednesday 9.30am Christ Church Waiwera 1st Sunday 11.15am Holy Trinity, Silverdale 2nd & 4th Sunday 9am For further information

ph 426 4952

chadorewa@gmail.com www.hbcanglicanparish.com Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

September 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

39

Advertisment

September 2019 5-22 The Overwintering Project exhibition, Estuary Arts Centre, Western Reserve, Orewa.

21

Whangaparaoa College car fair, Whangaparaoa College, 8 Stanmore Bay Road, 10am-2pm. Buy and sell cars, bikes, trucks and boats. Stalls and food. Register to sell a vehicle, linktr.ee/wgpcollegecarfair or contact Lisa White at the college

22

Gun buy back and amnesty, Sharks Sports Club, Victor Eaves Reserve, Orewa, 12noon-4pm.

24

Talk by Wayne Howett of Ronald McDonald House Charities, Manly Methodist Church, 945 Whangaparaoa Road (opp. Fire Station), 1.30pm. Afternoon tea. Info: phone Hazel 428 1273.

25

Ancient Greece Goes to the Movies talk by Dr Anastasia Bakogianni of Massey University, Orewa Library, Moana Ave, Orewa, 1pm-2pm. How ancient Greece is portrayed in the movies and on television. Interactive workshop.

25

Meeting to support formation of Rebus Club of Gulf Harbour, Gulf Harbour Yacht Club, 10am. Open to all retired people.

Info: ph Peter 424 7759, Graeme 424 7115 or Norma 427 5216.

26

Talk by Wolfgang Wolf, the Stroke Mentor, Rotary House, 4 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Silverdale, 1.30pm. Info: rodneyaphasiagroup@gmail.com or phone 0210 527 258. (see story p27)

27-29 Gulf Harbour Yacht Club celebrates 30 years. Guest speaker

at dinner on Saturday 28 will be Barbara Kendall and Peter Montgomery will be MC. Bookings: admin@ghyc.co.nz or 424 2118. (see story p32)

28 28

Healthy Eating talk by The Asian Network Inc. Orewa Library, Moana Ave, Orewa, 12 noon-1pm. A bilingual talk – Chinese and English.

St John Silverdale Open Day, St John Ambulance base, Silverdale Street, Silverdale, 10am-2pm. All welcome. (see story p29)

October2019 2

Sustainable living group Transition Town Hibiscus Coast host the movie, Living the Change Whangaparaoa Community Hub, 707 Whangaparaoa Road, 7pm. Free of charge.

11 & 12 Hibiscus Coast Artists Art Exhibition and Sale, Orewa

Community Hall, Friday9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-3.30pm.

Thirty local artists selling their work.

12 19

Glitz, Art and Glamour fundraising ball at Centrestage Theatre, Centreway Road, Orewa, 6.30pm. Hosted by Orewa Rotary. Tickets $110 each from www.centrestagetheatre.co.nz/ Writing Workshop with Jane Bissell, The Building Blocks of Story, Whangaparaoa Library, 10.30am-3.30pm, $25pp.

Kick-start your writing. Info and registration: www. janebissellwriting.com or phone 428 3385.

Silverdale

ARTISAN Silverdale Street, every Saturday 8am-1pm

Phone Sarah 027 589 7320

Pharmacy Talk with Tania Adams

Pharmacist at Unichem Manly

Hayfever and Allergic Rhinitis Have you noticed that covering of yellow on every surface outside?

It is the yellow pollen from pine and it’s playing havoc with people suffering with hay fever. Hay fever affects one in every 5 of us causing a recurrent runny, stuffy, itchy nose, frequent sneezing and sometimes itchy, red eyes.

Half of sufferers just have symptoms during the spring. This seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is usually triggered by pollen. If you are suffering symptoms in the early spring, this indicates a tree pollen allergy. If you have symptoms in late spring and summer this might indicate that you are more allergic to grass and weed pollens.

However, good old Auckland weather means that the pollen release is overlapping and the season itself is ill-defined.

It’s easy to get confused between a cold and hay fever as the symptoms are very similar. The main difference is that with hay fever the mucus from your nose is more watery, and you will sneeze more.

There are two main ways to treat hay fever: • Reducing contact with the allergen (if possible!)

• Medicines such as antihistamine tablets, nasal sprays, decongestants and eye drops.

Avoiding pollen is difficult but you might be able to avoid going outside when pollen counts are high; for instance, in the morning or on windy days. As tempting as it is to get your clothes and bedding aired, using a drier will prevent the materials from picking up pollen.

Non-sedating antihistamines are often useful in helping with symptoms of hay fever. They relieve your runny nose as well as itching and sneezing symptoms. Antihistamines come as tablets, liquids, nose sprays and eye drops.

Decongestant tablets can be used to unblock your nose, but they should not be used for more than a few days at a time. Using them for longer can make your blocked nose even worse (rebound congestion) For people with moderate to severe hay fever, an anti-inflammatory corticosteriod nasal spray is a wise choice and is actually considered the gold star treatment if you continually suffer from the symptoms of a blocked nose. They take a few days to work and actually a couple of weeks to get the full effect. They need to be used regularly (every day) throughout your hay fever season to be most effective.

So spring is coming, it’s time to get out there and smell the roses.

But if you are a hay fever sufferer.... perhaps just sit back and enjoy the sunshine instead!

53B Rawhiti Road, Manly Village Whangaparaoa Ph (09) 424 7708 Fax (09) 424 7427 www.unichemmanly.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Manly Pharmacy

Your local health professional

40 | Hibiscusmatters | September 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz

Rugby win the best yet for Whangaparaoa College

Whangaparaoa College’s First XV is celebrating its best result in the school’s history, winning North Harbour Rugby’s Open C grade.

The team beat Westlake in the final at QBE Stadium in Albany on August 31 in front of a large crowd.

Teacher in charge of rugby, and forwards coach, Jason Brajkovic, says after losing last year’s Open C final to Long Bay, the First XV was determined to go one better.

“Coming off a heavy defeat two weeks earlier, and a tough home semi against Northcote College, the team was well prepared and determined heading into the final,” he says.

The tactics were to use the wind advantage in the first half through the smart kicking of First 5 Notana Snowden, contest the breakdown and build a lead.

This worked well for Whangaparaoa, which was ahead 17-5 at half time.

The second half saw both teams make the most of their opportunities, with Westlake scoring twice in quick succession to narrow the gap and unsettle the nerves of the Whangaparaoa bench.

However, after the teams traded possession and territory for most of the second half, Whangaparaoa came away with a 27-17 victory.

Jason says the win gives the First XV the choice of promotion to Open B grade, but the college has elected to stay in Open C because of a limited

Whangaparaoa College’s First XV celebrates its win in the North Harbour competition.

The Open C Grade final was hotly contested between Whangaparaoa and Westlake.

Photos, Sam Bernard

Club members surveyed on partnership prospect Captain Seamus Kelly, left, and vice captain Corban Smith display the cup to a raucous crowd of supporters.

player base coming through.

“The college is extremely proud of the boys commitment and the dedication they have shown – it was a well deserved victory,” he says.

Do whispered sweet nothings need to be quite a lot louder these days?

Members and players at the Hibiscus Coast Netball Centre and Whangaparaoa Tennis Club, both in Edith Hopper Park, Manly, are being surveyed as a potential partnership between the two is explored – along with how their facilities could be developed. Earlier this year, the tennis club received a $25,000 Facilities grant from the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board towards the costs of a feasibility study as it investigates the development of a joint facility. Visitor Solutions has been engaged to help undertake the study. Survey questions include different court surface options and whether members of both clubs would like to see a partnership formed between the two. Later in the year, a workshop will be held for members to explain the findings of the survey and study.

With FREE initial hearing checks and high quality European Hearing Devices starting from only $495* there is no need to miss out on all the little secrets and compliments

Don’t suffer in silence * Assumes eligibility for $511.11 per ear Government Subsidy for hearing aids

Coast Plaza, Whangaparaoa

www.hearagain.co.nz

09 4246035