Hibiscus Matters_ Issue 313_6 December 2021

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December 6, 2021

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Snowflakes fell in Gulf Harbour recently as Greg Sager, Selena Duncan and their family added a snow machine to their home’s Christmas light display. The family missed out on a winter trip to the South Island ski-fields due to lockdown, so they brought the snow to Gulf Harbour instead. From left, Caliya Duncan, aged six, and sister Korilee (10) test out the snow machine. See our festive feature, pages 22-30.

21-unit development proposed for Red Beach Another intensive housing development is in the wings for Red Beach Road – 21 townhouses could be built where Faithfull Funeral Services has been for around 30 years.

New development company, Red Beach 1, proposes to construct the two-storey, two and three-bedroomed homes on the site,

which is on the corner of Red Beach Road and Albatross Road. The 3571sqm section is zoned Residential – Mixed Housing Urban and has a CV of $2.45m.

The proposal is the first stage of a two-stage development. The developer also purchased 4 Albatross Road, where it plans to build a further eight dwellings – this site is 809sqm.

www.Ōrewacarservices.co.nz

Although this is the newly formed company’s first development, Red Beach 1 co-director Tom Anderson, a lawyer and property and design consultant, says he and his three co-directors – urban designer Bruce Weir, accountant David Kitson and valuer Michael Gale – have extensive experience on other projects.

Red Beach 1 applied to Auckland Council for resource consent for Stage 1 of the project at the end of October – the application is still being processed.

Meanwhile, the homes are already on the market and Anderson says this reflects the company’s confidence that what is proposed continued p2

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www.localmatters.co.nz Next issue: December 20, 2021 Book your advertising now General manager: Jannette Thompson gm@localmatters.co.nz Editor: Terry Moore ph 427 8187 terry@localmatters.co.nz Journalist: Sally Marden ph 022 478 1619 reporter@localmatters.co.nz Graphic designer: Lorry McCarthy hibiscus@localmatters.co.nz Online: Alysha Dudley ph 022 544 0249 online@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Angela Gallagher ph 022 029 1895 sellit@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Stephane Courtine ph 022 096 8517 sales@localmatters.co.nz A division of Local Matters. Hibiscus Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated to more than 25,500 homes and businesses fortnightly: Puhoi • Waiwera • Hatfields • Ōrewa • Silverdale • Millwater • Dairy Flat • Red Beach • Whangaparāoa Peninsula

Continued from p1 does not infringe on the rules too heavily.

“We didn’t want to push the boundaries,” Anderson says.

Red Beach 1 purchased the land from Faithfull Funeral Homes – the deal, which has been unconditional for some time, finally settled last week.

The proposal is to demolish the funeral home and construct two rows of units, with frontage to either Red Beach Road or Albatross Road, together with retaining walls to 1.2m high, road access and landscaping.

The proposal is the first stage of a twostage development. Stage 2 consists of an additional eight dwellings on 4 Albatross Rd. The resource consent application notes that the proposal represents a reasonably highintensity development on the 3571sqm site, with an average site area of 170sqm per dwelling.

Each dwelling will have at least one parking space and some will have two. Anderson says this is about balancing compact living with providing people who are buying a high-end

Artist’s impressions of the 21-unit development planned for Red Beach Road. A second stage will add a further eight homes on Albatross Road.

unit with garaging, as they would expect. The units are on the market from $990,000 (two bedrooms) to $1.2-$1.3m (three bedrooms).

The company has requested no public notification of the resource consent application and considers that no neighbours will be adversely affected. Anderson says that informal approaches to neighbours met with a positive response to the plans.

He describes the development, called The Residences – Red Beach, as of excellent

quality.

“We want to be proud of what we see when we drive by, once it’s finished,” he says.

“We hope it will be a great addition to the community.”

Faithfull Funeral Homes was approached for comment but was not available prior to this paper going to print.

The resource consent documentation is linked to this story: www.localmatters.co.nz

Ministry of Health: Covid 19 double vaccinated % last week Source: https://covid19.govt.nz/alert-levels-and-updates/covid-19-data-and-statistics/covid-19-vaccination-rates-around-new-zealand/ 90.9

90.5

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Views expressed in Hibiscus Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers. All rights reserved. Reproduction without editor’s permission is prohibited.

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Fairway Bay sold to Covington Group Covington Group Holdings, the owner of Gulf Harbour marina, has purchased Fairway Bay marina and the surrounding land from Chinese company Top Harbour.

The deal settled on Friday, November 26.

Covington Group (sole director James Speedy of Auckland) has interests in marine, property, technology, accommodation and hospitality businesses.

Gulf Harbour marina general manager Tony Sparks, says Covington has long thought that Fairway Bay offered an opportunity to invest in residential and marine assets.

He says the group plans to develop and operate Fairway Bay marina independently of Gulf Harbour’s marina, with its own unique brand and offering.

“We are excited by the opportunity that Fairway Bay brings to the group as we look at developing both a community hub and destination for those on the Whangaparāoa Peninsula and beyond,” Sparks says.

Top Harbour purchased Gulf Corporation’s failed development, then known as Hobbs Wharf, in 2012 for $35 million. Gulf Corporation was developing Hobbs Wharf until the company went into receivership in December, 2009.

No one from Top Harbour could be reached for comment.

Chinese developer Top Harbour has sold out of Fairway Bay in Gulf Harbour. The land sold is outlined in blue.

The 80-ton crane crashed onto its side, damaging two boats and ending up with its boom in the Weiti River. Photos, Andrew Peddie

TS

Crane crashes as jetty gives way

C123

What should have been a routine day’s work went bad for Hibiscus Marine and Storage when their crane toppled to the ground while lifting a boat out of the Weiti River onto the hard stand.

No one was hurt in the incident, which happened last month, however there was severe damage to the crane, two boats and injured pride for the company.

Silverdale Fire senior station officer Jim McLean says firefighters were called to the scene at 1 Poplar Lane, Stanmore Bay to ensure there were no issues regarding hydraulic fluid spilling from the crane.

Luckily, he says, not much had leaked and no potential pollutants spilled into the waterway.

He says the concrete jetty under the crane’s hydraulic jack gave way. This caused the crane to lose its balance and it crashed down onto the yacht it was lifting, as well as onto another one nearby. Both yachts were badly damaged.

The vessel being lifted belonged to a Coastguard volunteer.

The damage was such that the boat ended up being towed back to its berth by Coastguard (see column, p34).

Yard manager Tim Waite said the accident came out of the blue – “We’ve lifted hundreds of boats there, including heavier ones, without incident,” he said.

The matter is now in the hands of insurers and the costs of salvage and repair of the jetty could be considerable.

Investigation work for Penlink that got underway recently has included using a helicopter to carry heavy equipment. Waka Kotahi/NZ Transport Agency says the most recent heli-lift was from Ara Weiti Road (at the southern end of the route) to the Archers Block on Whangaparāoa Peninsula. The helicopter transports equipment to help with geotechnical works – it can carry up to a tonne of gear on every lift.

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December 6, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

3

Russell Green will no longer have cause to wear his chief fire officer helmet.

Fire chief burned by vaccination mandate The chief fire officer and one of the founders of the Puhoi Volunteer Fire Brigade has been barred from operational duties after refusing to be vaccinated against Covid-19.

Russell Green will continue as chief fire officer at Puhoi, but his responsibilities will be strictly in a non-operational support role.

Green, who has served as a volunteer firefighter at Puhoi for 14 years, will no longer be allowed on a fire truck to attend call-outs or be able to train with his crew.

The dramatic curtailment of his role came after he failed to comply with a Government Covid-19 Public Health Response Order, which required more than 13,300 Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) personnel to have their

first vaccination by November 29 and their second vaccination by January 14.

“Clearly it is my choice. I suffer the consequences of my choice, and I understand that,” he says. “It’s probably

“

iceberg” with more demands to follow.

“In my mind the Government is holding people in a state of fear – making people scared – and controlling the population as it sees fit,” he says.

In my mind the Government is holding people in a state of fear – making people scared – and controlling the population as it sees fit. not the way I wanted to go out. In fact, I’m not out yet – I’ve just been sidelined.”

Green says his chief reason for refusing the vaccine is his belief that the Government is “holding a gun to his head” and that the vaccination demand is “just the tip of the

”

He says one additional Puhoi firefighter has been stood down over the vaccine issue but despite this the brigade is still “in good health”.

Green helped establish the first Puhoi fire station in 2007, which originally comprised

shipping containers and gates put together by volunteers over Waitangi weekend. He later drove a fundraising campaign and took on a project management role to establish the current modern Puhoi fire station, which opened in 2017.

Deputy Jared Rehm will take charge of operational duties at the Puhoi Brigade.

FENZ refused to discuss the number of firefighters who had been stood down but in a statement said nationally 89 percent of volunteers covered by the health response order had been fully or partially vaccinated.

All brigades remain operational except for two smaller brigades – one on the South Island West Coast and one in the Bay of Plenty. These were currently not functional because of insufficient vaccinated volunteers.

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Viewpoint John Watson, Hibiscus & Bays Councillor

COLD PRESSED

john.watson@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

JUICES & SMOOTHIES

Council pays back targeted rate There was a Court of Appeal decision this month that has implications not just for Hibiscus Coast accommodation providers but for Aucklanders generally.

The court ruled that the targeted rate on accommodation providers is ‘invalid’.

At the time it was imposed, the rate was championed by the Mayor. As a result of the court decision, Auckland Council faces the prospect of paying back nearly $30m in collected rates plus court costs (as well as $1.5 m already spent on legal fees).

For those who’ve had occasion to contest or challenge council decisions, this judgment will be of special interest.

“If you don’t like it, take us to court” is a statement I’ve heard a little too often in some council circles. A large organisation used to just bulldozing its way over opposition can lead to an institutional arrogance that ordinary citizens find difficult, if not impossible, to combat – the vast resources of council effectively turned against the very people who fund them.

If this decision makes Council treat other groups and individuals more fairly, that will be something at least – even though the long-suffering ratepayer has to pick up the tab for this poorly conceived targeted rate policy. If it doesn’t (and that’s a possibility) then we have a problem and one a lot more damaging than the judgment in this case.

The accommodation providers had the money to go through the courts to ensure their members were treated fairly – most others cannot afford to even contemplate this.

There have been a series of poor decisions now where councillors like ourselves (along

with members of the public) have been proven right after-the-fact (APTR, Civic sale, stadium strategy, attempted marina sales, diversified assets disposal to name but a few).

“I told you so” is all very well but the ongoing blind adherence to the party-bureaucratic machine is concerning, as is the absence of any apparent self-reflection or accountability.

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On a more positive note it’s been great to see the new kids’ playgrounds being unveiled around the Coast and the upgrades to coastal assets around our beaches. It’s not always big ticket items that are appreciated at local level.

Auckland Council faces the prospect of paying back nearly $30m in collected rates plus court costs.

Talking of big ticket items, Penlink is looking promising for a construction start next earthworks season (later in 2022). There won’t be much change out of $1 billion when this project is completed but a lot of preparatory work has been done this year already by NZTA/Waka Kotahi.

Finally I was moved recently by the community response on social media to a young guy reaching out for help with work and accommodation. It was genuinely uplifting to see the number of people keen to help in whatever way they could.

With Christmas fast approaching I’m sure that same Coast spirit will continue strong as ever. Take it easy everyone, and keep looking out for one another.

Government boost for Auckland summer fun

The Government last week announced a new $37.5 million support package aimed at reviving economic, social and cultural activities in Auckland over summer. Under the Reactivating Tāmaki Makaurau package, 100,000 vouchers will be distributed to families and individuals allowing them to visit Auckland attractions, facilities and cultural venues.

In addition, funding will be available through an Arts and Cultural Events Support Scheme – designed to give event organisers, artists and crew the confidence to proceed with their events. There is also a Local Activation Programme designed to fund community organisations and businesses to organise events that are free for the public. The idea is to bring neighbourhoods and town centres back to life. The package also includes extra money for foodbanks. Info: https://aucklandunlimited.com

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OurOpinion

Christmas magic

I was having coffee with ‘the real Santa’ in Ōrewa last week (see story p23) and he commented that this year people appear to be getting Christmassy earlier than ever.

My Christmas tree is already up at home – several weeks before I’d normally take a deep breath and fish out the boxes of decorations. This year I couldn’t wait to splash the tinsel around.

It makes me think a bit about 100 years ago – the roaring 1920s, where I imagine everyone was ready for a bit of fun and frivolity after the war.

For many of us, Christmas is providing light relief and a chance to think about and share gifts with the ones we love – whether they can be with us this year or not.

Of course, for others it means more stress piled on at an already stressful time. How to make it joyful for the children on a budget already stretched to breaking point?

Hibiscus Matters hopes that although times are tough, some of us will still be able to give to others less fortunate.

Our annual Buy Local Give Local campaign started last issue and donated items are beginning to come in. They can be placed, contactless, under the Christmas tree set up in our office.

Everything donated will make Christmas special for local people who are struggling – distributed via the Hibiscus Coast Community House’s foodbank, Love Soup and Whangaparāoa Police station’s Christmas parcels (see story p39) Over coffee, Santa told me that this Christmas, more than ever, it is a time to celebrate magic – the perfect antidote to fear and uncertainty.

We are hoping that magic will happen, as it has in the past, under our Christmas charity tree this year.

Terry Moore

Grinds her gears

I live on Hibiscus Coast Highway Ōrewa and agree with Grant Hannah (HM Letters, November 22). The large house moving trucks grind and gear change by our house overnight while I am trying to sleep. I guess after watching the TV programme Moving Houses the numbers will escalate. Very disruptive and bad for residents’ sleep health.

Susan Jackson, Ōrewa

6

WIN Waterworld passes

The inflatable water park called Waterworld is coming to Red Beach this summer (HM November 8) and Hibiscus Matters has three free passes to give away. Each pass gives four people entry to Waterworld.

The inflatable obstacle course, anchored just offshore, provides slips, slides and jumps for anyone over the age of five years. It has been in Auckland for four years, but this will be the first time it’s added the Hibiscus Coast to its schedule.

Obstacles include a trampoline, ball run, spinning obstacle, stairs and a pipe. New for this season are slides, blobs, swings, balancing balls and slipping waves.

Covid-19 vaccinations will be mandatory for all participants of vaccination age. Strict protocols will also be in place to

YourOpinion

House move joy

In reply to Grant Hannah’s letter in your local paper (HM November 22), I would like him to think about why there are more houses going through Ōrewa at the moment. My son’s house was one of those that went through Ōrewa on its way to Kawakawa and how exciting it was for his family to be able to watch it as it went through Ōrewa and Hatfields.

At that time we never thought we would see it, as the borders were closed. Think about the bigger picture – all of these people have been waiting for months, if not longer, due to Covid restrictions and all the restrictions the house removers had to go through to get these houses over the border. What are a few lost hours of sleep compared to the joy of a new house finally arriving? Those truck drivers had great respect for the road. So what if a few cones get knocked down – how easy are they to put back up! Also Fulton Hogan would have knowledge of the trucks going through Ōrewa and are you sure that the trucking companies do not pay for what they damage? Please be kind – these are really strange times for all of us.

Robyn Higgins, Silverdale (abridged)

| Hibiscusmatters | December 6, 2021

ensure social distancing so the waterpark can operate safely – this involves reducing the numbers on the course, and more time between sessions.

The Red Beach dates are December 30-January 4.

Info and bookings: www.wipeout.co.nz To be in to win, ‘like’ Hibiscus Matters’ Facebook page and message us your name, contact phone number and email address. Alternatively, write your name, phone number and email address on the back of an envelope and post to Waterworld Giveaway, Hibiscus Matters, 21 Florence Ave, Ōrewa. But be quick – entries close Tuesday, December 14.

The prizes will be EMAILED out, so entries must include an email address.

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

Taking the consequences

I am writing to take issue with comments made by Andy Dunn of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board concerning health choices (Viewpoint column, HM November 22) Certainly, as the law stands in New Zealand at the present time, one can choose to be vaccinated against Covid-19, or to refuse to have the vaccination. However, the point that those making the choice to remain unvaccinated refuse to accept is that all choices have consequences, sometimes very unpleasant ones. Choosing to drink large amounts of alcohol on a regular basis, or choosing to smoke tobacco, neither of which are illegal, can lead to very harmful consequences. Andy Dunn comments on hearing distressing stories of staff losing their jobs or in fear of being fired. No-one is having their job taken away from them.

They have a choice. Choose to have the vaccination and stay employed, or choose not to have the vaccination and not have a job. That latter choice is not irreversible.

Get vaccinated, and get your job back.

Simple.

Neville Martin, Ōrewa.

Vaccinations support business

Andy Dunn of the local board is totally free to make his choice regarding the vaccine. I do find it interesting that he is distressed about people losing their jobs. The mandate is only part of that picture. Most businesses are keen to have as many people vaccinated as possible, so they can re-open and get back to work and keep people employed (once the 90 percent threshold was reached). By getting vaccinated you support their efforts and their businesses.

Getting vaccinated is a choice we make not only for ourselves – it is for others too.

Gayle Fleming, Ōrewa

No middle ground

Andy Dunn of our local board raises an important issue (Viewpoint, HM November 22) relating to the divisions caused by individuals’ vaccination choices. I am on board with getting the shots, but also agree it’s not for everybody so the mandates make me uncomfortable. The increasingly violent rhetoric from those opposing the government (on many issues, including the

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YourOpinion vaccine) is what happens when you push people into a corner but their aggression quickly gets people offside and causes more division. It is not an issue where there is much middle ground. But thanks again to Andy, and Hibiscus Matters, for giving it airtime. Threats have been made against journalists – which seems the most misguided and ill informed thing ever.

Keep up the good work. You have a great newspaper.

David Anderson, Gulf Harbour Editor’s note: Thank you. This paper has been on the receiving end of some of that aggressive behaviour. We try to shrug it off. It’s ironic that we’re accused of being controlled and threatened by government – told not to write anything that Jacinda Ardern wouldn’t like. When the only people so far telling us what we should and shouldn’t be publishing is the antigovernment lobby.

... cont

Thanks for backing local businesses

Congratulations to Jan Alexander of Silverdale who won a copy of Dragonflies

by Jennifer Mayne and Bruce Miller.

Thanks to all who entered.

Thank you for buying local and supporting Auckland businesses as we transition into the new COVID-19 Protection Framework and enter the next stage of our COVID recovery.

Get the latest information at www.covid19.govt.nz

Bad enough now

Marja Lubeck

Cr Wayne Walker is right – what is being proposed regarding intensification could be a nightmare for this area (HM November 22). However, what is already happening under the Unitary Plan is not exactly ideal either. I was interested to hear Cr Walker say that Council staff currently have “oversight” as to what’s being consented. You have to wonder what they were thinking when large buildings go up close to the boundary without neighbours having any say in the matter. Trees are felled and sunlight and privacy have been lost and with it quality of life. If Council were aware, they did nothing.

Stewart Fraser, Red Beach

Labour list MP based in Kaipara ki Mahurangi marja.lubeck@parliament.govt.nz Authorised by Marja Lubeck, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

When mist began blowing from the sculpture on Moana Reserve on Friday, November 26, the views of spectators were mixed. A strong off shore breeze drove the mist across the reserve and onto passersby. While children seemed to be enjoying the light spray, older members of the community described it as “unpleasant to say the least”. Auckland Council Head of Area Operations Julie Pickering says the ‘issue’ of spray blowing across the road will be monitored in the coming weeks and be remedied if required. The mist will be on from 9am-7pm each day. It is the first time that Ōrewa’s ‘running child’ sculpture’s mist effect has been turned on since the sculpture was erected a year ago.

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December 6, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

7

GR8 NZ Life Lifestyle Products

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oaties and backyard chefs now have a local source for the best in NZ-made portable rod racks and pizza tools, thanks to Manly-based metal guru Rhys Fell.

He bought a basic pizza paddle and rack business late last year, called it GR8NZLIFE and has spent the last eight months and lockdown redesigning, refining and expanding the range of steel and aluminium items on offer. For fishers, he has developed a range of aluminium portable rod and reel racks that clip securely onto virtually any boat for safe towing and stowing, and which can also be attached to walls for cleaning and storage at home.

Rhys says the Epoxy or powder-coated racks come in two designs and a range of sizes, and can include a new lock fitting that stops rods from moving around.

For wood-fired pizza lovers, GR8NZLIFE

Rhys Fell

manufactures a complete range of anodized aluminium and stainless steel tools and accessories, including different paddles, a commercial cutter, coals rake and a wood rack.

“I’ve been working to make sure everything we make is something that people really want and need,” Rhys says. “They are all made and assembled locally, and every product is fully guaranteed .”

He will also help fit rod racks for local customers or do one-off designs.

Since lockdown, Rhys is happier than ever with his decision to leave the corporate world and move to the Coast, an area he has known and loved since coming to a family bach as a child.

“I called it GR8NZLIFE because that’s what we wanted to do – live a good family life for our daughter and not spend all our lives working for someone else.”

Clockwise from top left, The teams from, Ship & Anchor, Moreish Cafe, Boss Burger and Puff Cafe and Bites.

Red light means GO for hospo People who have had their fill of picnics and drive-through queues were excited when the doors of cafés and restaurants opened at the end of last week.

Perhaps no one was more excited than the business owners themselves.

There is a lot to think about with new Red Traffic Light regulations – and it may even be a bit challenging to get back in the swing of things. One café owner told the paper it was strange to do dishes again and serve at tables after four months of takeaways.

The prospect of a fine of up to $15,000 for businesses that allow people to dine in

without vaccine passports (as well as a $2000 fine for the person in breach) has sharpened the minds of local hospitality providers.

Scott Smith, owner of Coffee Club in Ōrewa, says it is a relief that vaccine passports can be shown at point of sale, or at tables, not necessarily at the door.

However, he says it will be interesting to see how it goes when anyone without one has to be asked to leave. If there are any issues, staff are advised to call the Police.

Hospitality is looking forward to a chance to make up for lost time with a busy summer – and local customers will be key.

Mark Mitchell

MP for Whangaparaoa For appointments and assistance please get in touch Rod & Reel Racks

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 6, 2021

localbusiness

Finance Greg Douglas,

greg@douglasconsulting.co.nz

Theft inspires insurance check

The first thing people usually think of insuring are their assets. For tradespeople, this would include tools and vehicles. As tools can be replaced on a fairly regular basis, it is strongly advised to keep a good record of your purchases in the form of receipts. This can be as easy as taking a photograph of the receipts and storing them on a web-based server.

Some accounting programs have the facility to upload these directly to the software.

Another fairly obvious form of cover is liability insurance. This covers you against any accidental injury to other person or damage to their property. If you are in an industry that works closely with people and their properties and have not considered this cover, I would recommend getting in touch

Our premises were one of many that have been affected by this recent increase in crime Probably the least thought about insurance a business may look at or review on a regular basis, is cover for loss of income.

If you find yourself in a position where you are unable to work for a period of time, this covers the potential income that was lost for that period. This is particularly important if you have staff. This cover should be reviewed regularly to ensure it covers your current level of earnings and staff wages.

There are many other forms of insurance available including cyber insurance.

It is advisable to contact a broker and discuss the options to best protect your business.

Thinking of selling?

Call Mike today.

Whangaparaoa

Mike Broome Brand and Territory Owner

021 790 665 mike.broome@mikepero.com Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd. Licensed REAA (2008)

www.localmatters.co.nz

Shop 20, 175 Millwater Parkway, Silverdale P: 426 5308 E: millwater@seriouseyes.co.nz www.seriouseyes.co.nz

If you are looking at cutting your business costs and may therefore think about reducing insurance cover, remember that we can’t control the future and it is better to be covered than fall short due to an unforeseen incident.

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As most are aware, insurance can be tailored to suit your individual business needs, and where some may go with basic cover, there are extra things to take into account.

When purchasing a vehicle that you know will be used for business purposes, it is essential that you have the right cover. If a vehicle is insured for private use and you have an accident while on the way to or from a job, insurers will not cover the incident, as it will be deemed to be business related.

1 9

Solution page 38

Our premises in Manly Village were one of many that have been affected by this recent increase in crime, and while this has been extremely disruptive for business, as well as a costly exercise, it has made us aware of the necessity of reviewing our insurance and security.

with your broker to discuss the options.

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

We hope everyone is staying safe and coping through lockdown. Times have been tough on a lot of people and over the past few months there has been an increase in crime across the country, and across Auckland in particular.

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www.seriouseyes.co.nz December 6, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

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Come on in to the Cove Everyone at The Cove Dining Precinct in Whangaparāoa is thrilled to have locals back in our restaurants and cafes!

someone else the gift of pizza – the e-gift cards can be emailed to you or directly to your gift recipient.

Re-opening under the Covid-19 traffic light system has come just in time for you to celebrate the festive season at Coast with friends and family.

Majestic Tea Bar is welcoming customers back to its tables with some fabulous new dishes for summer. Try the Signature French Toast – cinnamon-toasted brioche with black doris compote, freeze-dried raspberries, fresh banana, whipped cream, walnut praline, and maple syrup. You can add bacon if you dare.

The team at Proper Pizza is so excited to be back, the restaurant will be open every day including Christmas Day. Pop in for a gourmet pizza experience between 11am and 9pm Sunday to Thursday or until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

It’s best to book using the convenient online tool.

The Lunch Favourite is a traditional grilled cheese and pulled pork sandwich, served with fries and a side salad. Or opt for the Quinoa Salad, rainbow quinoa with chopped nuts, seasonal vegetables, citrus, dukkah and a zesty lemon dressing – you can add chicken or halloumi to make it more substantial.

If you purchase and pay for orders using Proper Pizza’s prepay account/e-gift card service, you automatically save 10 per cent whenever you visit. Or use it to give

You can also enjoy Majestic’s amazing range of teas, coffees and hot chocolates but as the weather warms up, you might want to have a cold drink instead. There are

Make sure you leave room to try the delicious gelato on offer – it’s made fresh every week and comes in 12 amazing flavours.

719 Whangaparāoa Road, Whangaparāoa

10

| Hibiscusmatters | December 6, 2021

plenty of options – choose from iced frappes, iced teas, iced chocolate and iced coffees, milkshakes, icecream sodas, soft drinks, real-fruit smoothies and juices.

The team hopes to have Joel the Christmas Elf back in store, once he’s completed his stay in MIQ, so bring the kids down to see what naughtiness he gets up too!

The Beer Spot is geared up to cater for your Christmas Party, with group bookings available now. They also have a great range of corporate gifts, including glasses, beer gift boxes and gift cards, plus T shirts, hats and hoodies for sale.

Quiz nights are starting again from Tuesday, 7 December – the fierce competition kicks off at 6.30pm – and you can book now for the beer tasting with Sunshine Brewery on Thursday, 16 December.

Then Santa will be on site for A Very Coastie Christmas on December 24. This is always a popular night so make sure

you reserve your table now.

“We have appreciated the support while we have been doing deliveries over the alert levels but we can’t wait to be at it again, serving 40 taps of New Zealand beer and wine and hosting a different rotating food truck weekly,” says Ben Kelsey, one of The Beer Spot Whangaparāoa owner-operators.

Spice up that pre-Christmas celebration at El Cupo Cantina – group bookings are available now and you can even hire out the entire venue for a large event.

Restaurant Manager Federico Jairala says the team is super excited to open the doors and have Coasties back dining with them.

Margarita Mondays and Taco Tuesdays are back on for summer and it’s happy hour every day from 2pm to 6pm.

Make the most of every summer moment at The Cove.

For locals, by locals Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Christatmas

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Saturday, 4 December 10am–4pm

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Protestors heard in Ōrewa Horns blaring and hazard lights flashing made the Groundswell protest’s motorcade through Ōrewa on Sunday, November 21 hard to miss.

Coordinator of the rally for Rodney, Mick Smith, estimates around 300 cars, and a handful of tractors, travelled from Rodney and Helensville, converging on Ōrewa around 1pm.

It was part two of the protest held on Ōrewa Reserve, and throughout the country, on July 16.

Groundswell NZ is calling for a halt to all environmental regulations including freshwater, indigenous biodiversity/SNAs, climate change and high country legislation, and demands that the ute tax be removed.

This time around, the government’s 3 Waters policy was also a key issue for the protest.

The vehicles did a few loops around Centreway Road and Hibiscus Coast Highway.

It was a busy, sunny Sunday at the beach but supporters were limited to a few small groups who waved and cheered as the protestors drove past.

With Covid-19 restrictions in mind, a public gathering was not held this time and Smith says they also discouraged tractors – it’s a busy time on farm, and they didn’t want to clog the road too much.

“We also wanted to keep ‘the tinfoil hat wearers’ out,” Smith says, adding that there was a relatively small element of antivaccination protest that joined in this time.

NZ flags were everywhere at the protest – a noticeable change from the one held back in July. As well as utes and tractors, there were motorbikes (one with a sidecar) and even a couple of cyclists that passed through Ōrewa as part of the second Groundswell protest.

There were a lot of NZ flags waved, making the rally feel more like those held in the US.

the failings of the Labour government.

“We want to get NZ back to everyone pulling in the right direction,” he says.

“It went exactly as we had hoped we

Smith says the protest is not in support of any political party. It aims to draw attention to what protestors consider to be •

would. Police told me it was organised and disciplined and we looked after the spectators, and everyone who took part.”

He says the next one is being discussed at the

moment – it will probably be in February.

The idea is to involve the whole country, from the top of the north to the bottom of the south – “it will be a biggie,” he says.

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It will legally mandate the formation of four centralised water entities, taking the decision-making power out of local councils’ hands.

Elected members likely to need vaccination Auckland Council has been consulting with its 170 elected members on vaccination guidelines for the past two weeks.

Meanwhile, it has already (from December 3) made it mandatory for all employees, and others, such as contractors, who work for the council, to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Staff have until January 17 to comply with this, but will not be able to enter council workplaces until they are fully vaccinated.

Council heard from more than half its workforce during its staff consultation period. Of those who responded, 83 percent agreed with the proposed vaccination requirements, 14 percent disagreed and a further 3 percent didn’t know.

A survey carried out in October showed that 91 percent of council staff had either had one dose and intended to have their second, or were already fully vaccinated, while a further 2.1 percent indicated they intended to be vaccinated.

Elected member decision soon

Auckland Mayor Phil Goff at the Warkworth water treatment plant in 2019.

Mayors seek accountability on Three Waters Auckland Mayor Phil Goff and Kaipara District Mayor Jason Smith have been appointed to a panel tasked with ensuring that a new legally mandated northern water entity will still be accountable to ratepayers.

The pair are two of just nine mayors tasked with “developing solutions” on behalf of New Zealand’s 67 councils.

The panel will be chaired by Doug Martin, who was also a member of the council-controlled organisations’ independent review.

The Government has formed the three waters panel in response to near universal condemnation of the reform programme by New Zealand councils.

It follows a recent announcement by the Government that it will legally mandate the formation of four centralised

water entities, taking the decision-making power out of local councils’ hands.

Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta admitted that feedback from councils had “raised a number of concerns” about proposed representation and accountability.

“It’s a bottom line for the Government that water service entities continue to be publicly owned, have operational and financial autonomy to make much needed investment, and have oversight from local authorities and mana whenua,” she said.

The Three Waters panel is scheduled to report back in March next year. According to the Government’s own timeline, the Water Services Entities Bill, which will legislate the formation of the new entities, will be before select committees in parliament by the end of the year.

It is likely that elected members will be required to follow suit. The proposal currently being consulted on is that only those Councillors and Local Board members who have received both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine will be able to come into council offices and meeting spaces.

Under the proposed guidelines, those who are not vaccinated, or don’t want to disclose their vaccination status, will be asked to work remotely during periods where there is risk of the virus circulating in the community. Elected members who are not vaccinated will also be supported to participate in all meetings and workshops online.

It is expected the guidelines for elected members will be agreed by December 15. The guidelines will be reviewed every three months but it is antitipated they will be in place as long as required under the Government’s Covid-19 protection framework.

Backstories www.localmatters.co.nz October 25 (Opinion) and November 8 Visitors need vaccination

Visitors to Auckland Council’s corporate offices now need to show proof of vaccination and council has also confirmed that new requirements for customers using its facilities and services will be announced shortly.

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Boaties and greens unite in Gulf fight Little action needed for Coast coastline National conservation groups and recreational fishers have joined forces in an unlikely alliance to put pressure on the Government to ban destructive dredging and trawling in the Hauraki Gulf.

They have sent a joint letter to Oceans and Fisheries Minister David Parker, asking him to end all mobile bottom fishing, such as trawling, scallop dredging and Danish seining, which scrapes along the sea floor, destroying sealife and habitats.

The call comes after a Hauraki Gulf Forum poll found that 84 per cent of people living around gulf waters did not want bottom fishing to continue, and is in response to the Government’s recent Revitalising The Gulf plan, which proposes allowing commercial fishing boats to continue such practices, albeit with some limitations.

The alliance, which includes Forest & Bird, Greenpeace, the NZ Sports Fishing Council, the NZ Angling & Casting Association and the Environmental Defence Society (EDS) said it welcomed the Government’s overall intent to reverse decades of degradation in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.

“However, the Government’s proposals to create trawl corridors and to freeze the existing commercial scallop dredging footprint will do little to mitigate the environmental damage caused by scraping the seafloor, using indiscriminate fishing methods on these vitally important seabed habitats, nor does it allow for the potential recovery of these biogenic habitats and

associated biodiversity to commence,” the letter said.

EDS policy director Raewyn Peart said bottom trawling was an archaic method of catching fish and it was time to put to bed any commercial arguments in its favour.

“Towing heavy nets and equipment repeatedly across the seabed crushes shellfish and other sedentary creatures, leaving rubble and a wasteland,” she said. “Instead of resisting change, the commercial fishing sector needs to put its efforts into developing alternatives which don’t destroy the Hauraki Gulf ’s precious habitats.”

Forest & Bird’s regional conservation manager, Lissy Fehnker-Heather, said the Government needed to listen to the growing calls for change from so many different groups, organisations and individuals.

“The Government needs to get on with it and take the health of the Gulf seriously. All of us NGOs and the majority of the population are saying to end this destructive fishing practice, so we really hope the minister makes the right call,” she said.

Signatories to the letter included Forest & Bird, Greenpeace Aotearoa, WWF-NZ, EDS, Environment and Conservation Organisations of New Zealand, the NZ Sports Fishing Council, LegaSea, the NZ Underwater Association and the NZ Angling & Casting Association, which together represent an estimated 1.2 million people.

They hope to meet with Minister Parker in the New Year.

Info: The Hauraki Gulf Forum poll can be found at https://gulfjournal.org.nz/

Release of a plan that identifies problem areas on Whangaparāoa’s coastline and looks at the best strategies to adopt in each location over time has been delayed until February.

Council chose Whangaparāoa for its first Coastal Management Plan – eventually it will prepare plans covering the whole of Auckland’s coastline.

Public consultation took place earlier this year to find out what the community’s priorities are – what they value about the coast and how they use coastal areas and infrastructure.

During the process, the plan’s name has changed to Shoreline Adaptation Plan (SAP).

SAP plans consider how to adapt in the face of erosion and flooding that is getting worse with sea level rise and the other effects of climate change. They are focused on Council-owned land and assets. There are 160 of these in Whangaparāoa (such as toilet blocks, steps, boat ramps and seawalls), as well as reserves and coastal roads.

At a Hibiscus & Bays Local Board workshop on November 18, project lead Dr Tracy Howe told members that most of Whangaparāoa’s coastline could be managed with little or no intervention over the next 100 years.

In the medium term, there would be areas such as on Whangaparāoa Road near Little Manly, and in Army Bay, where a ‘hold the line’ (defending the current coastline) approach may be called for.

Dr Howe said most of the public feedback was focused on big beaches such as Shakespear, Stanmore Bay and Manly and there was a lot of focus on access for water activities, and natural based solutions.

In Stanmore Bay and Big Manly, limited intervention in the short term, including planting trees, is suggested in the draft plan; in Big Manly a review of walk/cycleway and public transport is also mentioned.

Once final changes are complete, the updated plan will be brought to the local board for endorsement in February.

It will then go to Auckland Council’s Environment and Climate Change Committee for final approval.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 6, 2021

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Golf course seeks remedies for failing infrastructure Failing stormwater infrastructure is causing ongoing issues at Whangaparāoa Golf Course in Army Bay, with collapsed and blocked drains.

Golf course general manager, Andrew Stiling, recently approached the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board asking for backup as they try to get Auckland Council to assist them with the infrastructure.

However, Council’s stormwater division, Healthy Waters, appears to have largely washed its hands of the matter.

“We have water across the course that we simply can’t dispose of,” Stiling told the board. “Culverts are failing and drains have collapsed on fairways. In some parts there is significant erosion and slumping as a result. This stormwater drains from the wider catchment, and repair is beyond our means as a charitable trust. We just don’t have that kind of money.”

He said they are also seeking technical support from Council to help investigate and solve the issues.

He said a drain behind houses adjacent to the course has failed, and empties onto the

course.

“Council’s view is that it was installed by the golf course, but it’s hard to prove either way,” Stiling says.

“

I’m really concerned that Healthy Waters wants to wriggle out of its responsibilities here.

”

Healthy Waters general manager Craig McIlroy told the paper that managing drainage on private property is the responsibility of the landowner, and a duty exists for an owner of lower land to accept the natural flow of water from higher ground.

“Earlier this year, one of our engineers visited Whangaparāoa Golf Course to observe the reported damage and confirmed that the area of the course that is affected falls under private drainage,” McIlroy says. “Therefore, we are unable to

assist with fixing the issue.”

Walker says. “That’s just wrong.”

Cr Wayne Walker has weighed in on behalf of the golf course and says Healthy Waters’ attitude is hard to understand, given that it assists with maintaining stormwater infrastructure on Gulf Harbour Country Club’s golf course, which includes the pond on Regency Park Drive.

He says catchment management plans for the area show that stormwater from parts of the roading network and nearby homes drain onto the golf course.

McIlroy says the former Rodney District Council entered into a maintenance agreement with the Gulf Harbour club to maintain some elements of the ponds on the golf course. He says this is because “the ponds provide a stormwater quality function for the wider catchment outside the golf course”.

Council now carries out those functions inherited from Rodney District Council.

Cr Walker says exactly the same can be said for the Whangaparāoa course’s stormwater infrastructure.

“The fundamental difference is that the Whangaparāoa course has been there a lot longer and that responsibility of Council was never acknowledged back then,” Cr

Locals suspected of dumping The dumping of rubbish and green waste in Eaves Bush, Ōrewa, has been an ongoing problem but Laurie Rands of Eaves Bush Appreciation Group (EBAG) says they believe the offenders are mainly local residents.

EBAG volunteers look after the bush and have had to deal with dumped waste for years. Last month, a pile of bulbs of a weed plant that could spread through the native bush was dumped, and later the same week parts of a fridge found their way to the same location.

“Normally that would be handled by Council, so it’s unfair to expect a charitable trust to do the job,” he says. “I’m really concerned that Healthy Waters wants to wriggle out of its responsibilities here.”

Stiling says they hope to be able to find a way forward, working with Council.

Following Whangaparāoa Golf Club’s presentation last month, the local board agreed to ask Council staff to investigate whose responsibility this infrastructure is.

A response is expected to come back to a local board workshop.

Dumped bulbs like this could spread like wildfire through Eaves’ Bush reserve.

“At times we see nearby residents felling a tree or clearing their property and then the green waste ends up in the bush,” Rands says.

Garden waste and weeds have been dumped in the bush around half a dozen times recently.

Rands says the offenders, instead of getting rid of their own rubbish, are forcing volunteers and Auckland Council to do it for them.

“It’s the ultimate in laziness,” she says. “It’s really got to stop.”

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Poisoned palms pose risk of injury An Ōrewa resident is worried a child could be seriously injured playing with fallen Phoenix palm tree fronds at the southern end of Ōrewa Reserve.

Red Beach author and youth mentoring expert Robin Cox had no idea a global pandemic was around the corner when he started writing his new book, Choices – Encouraging Youth to Achieve Greatness.

However, the obstacles and challenges thrown up by the arrival of Covid-19 make its purpose and publication more timely and relevant than ever, he says.

“Youth have been disproportionately impacted by the social, educational, and economic impacts of the pandemic,” he says. “For the next 10 years at least, the need for youth mentoring will be huge. It is going to be so important.”

Robin is a former school principal who moved to New Zealand from South Africa in 1999 and retired to Red Beach three years ago. While here, he has developed youth mentoring programmes, written more than a dozen books and personally mentored more than 1000 teenagers.

His new book aims to encourage parents, teachers, coaches and mentors to motivate young people to reach their potential in these difficult times.

“Many students will return to school with not only educational setbacks, but also setbacks in their social and emotional skills,”

Kerry Harvey lives opposite the grassed area and says children as young as three can be seen regularly picking up and playing with the 1.5 metre fronds from three palms that are believed to have been poisoned some time ago.

His concern is that Phoenix palm fronds have sharp, toxic thorns on them, which can cause painful, long-term injuries if they puncture the skin.

“We get heaps of people picnicking here and kids playing, which is lovely, but I see kids playing with these palms and chasing each other and throwing them like spears, or sword fighting with them,” he says.

“Most people have no idea how dangerous Phoenix palm fronds are, but between 2015 and 2019, ACC spent $1.39 million on 2741 claims.”

Harvey contacted Auckland Council with his concerns and he says they couldn’t have been nicer, but when a contractor visited and spoke to him, he was told that the trees would not be removed until the end of summer.

However, Council’s regional arborist and ecological manager, David Stejskal, said last week that their removal was being brought forward.

“We are aware of the dead Phoenix palms at the Ōrewa Reserve and have plans in place to remove them on December 9,” he said.

“The removal of the palm trees was delayed primarily to enable an investigation by our compliance team, but also due to

Connecting with youth in a Covid world

Kerry Harvey fears a child could be seriously hurt by thorns on the fronds.

the ground conditions in the reserve, which were not favourable for access with machinery.

“We are aware of the risk associated with the fallen palm fronds and have implemented a regular inspection regime, which includes the collection of any fallen palm fronds to minimise the risk of injury.”

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Robin Cox says youth today need more mentoring than ever.

he says. “Research states that stress, related to the pandemic and social distancing, was found to be associated with loneliness, increased anxiety and depression.”

He says positive face-to-face relationships are key to the health and wellbeing of youth in a post-pandemic world, and Choices provides practical tips and strategies to connect with, inspire and motivate young people to reach their potential. There are also true stories of Robin’s interactions with some of the teenagers he has mentored in New Zealand and elsewhere using the framework outlined in Choices.

The book also encourages readers to reflect on their own adolescent journey to appreciate some of the challenges today’s youth face, and reminds them of the importance of positive relationships.

“Choices offers messages of hope to all who wish to be an optimistic voice in the life of our youth,” Robin says.

WIN this book

Hibiscus Matters has two copies of Choices – Encouraging Youth to Achieve Greatness to give away, plus two copies of Robin Cox’s last book, Mentoring Minutes. To be in to win, ‘like’ Hibiscus Matters’ Facebook page and message your name and contact phone number. Alternatively, write your name, address and phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Choices Giveaway, Hibiscus Matters, 21 Florence Ave, Ōrewa.

Entries close Tuesday, December 14. Choices – Encouraging Youth to Achieve Greatness, by Robin Cox, is published by Wipf & Stock, RRP $24.99 from Wipf & Stock, Amazon, Kindle or direct from the author at https://yess.co.nz/bookstore

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Pining for pine?

For some, it’s not a Christmas tree if it doesn’t have real needles to smell amazing and shed all over the carpet.

Two local places to find your pine are: WHANGAPARĀOA – Coast Youth Community Trust (CYC) sells its trees as a fundraiser for their community work. Their trees are available now until December 22, at Whangaparāoa Baptist Church, Monday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm. Trees cost from $35 (table top) to $80 for the largest ones.

SILVERDALE – St John Ambulance service has trees available now, until December 19. They are $45 and on sale at the former Nandos building (next to Burger Fuel, Wainui Road, Silverdale), every weekday 9am-5pm and weekends, 10am-6pm.

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Christmas at Silverdale Mall

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 6, 2021

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Norm’s customised Santa outfits include a tracksuit, shorts and a rashie, and a Red Beach surf lifesaving swim cap. Inset, Pop up Father Christmas is spreading joy at local beaches.

He will be accompanied by an elf, or Mrs Claus.

The Real Santa brings it home this Christmas The big white beard is real and so are the twinkling eyes and the jolly round tummy – Norman McFadyen gets stopped in the street by excited children, whether he’s dressed up as Father Christmas or not.

“When you look like me it’s Christmas every day,” he says.

A career in mental health, including as a psychiatric nurse, along with a range of acting roles gave Norm a love of working with people and spreading joy.

He says he followed in the footsteps of his favourite uncle, Jimmy – a merchant seaman who was a lot like Norm and ended up working as a professional Santa Claus in Miami.

“When I was old (and big) enough I knew Santa would be the ultimate role,” Norm says.

He first played Santa professionally three years ago in the UK and since then it’s been a regular gig, mainly for corporate and private events, including during last year’s America’s Cup in Auckland.

He followed his son to the Hibiscus Coast and has lived here, or hereabouts, for years in between visits back to the UK. Covid cancelled his Santa engagements this summer, but Norm loves Christmas and decided to bring as much free fun as possible to local children.

He says six to seven months of Santa rehearsals will not go to waste, as he can now put on a show, including music, for the children.

“A lot of the stress adults are feeling is passed onto the

children and I want them to just hang out and have fun on the beach. Rather than worry about things we have no control over.”

His ‘pop up Santa stage’ has been at Ōrewa, Arkles Bay and Stanmore Bay in recent weeks and will continue to appear at local beaches and reserves between now and Christmas.

Anyone is welcome to come and say hello, or take photos, keeping a social distance. As well as a hearty ‘ho ho ho’, he sings Christmas songs, accompanying himself on the ukulele. A wireless mike is hidden within his beard so he can be clearly heard from a distance.

“Families and communities are so divided at the moment, so more than ever I want to share the Christmas spirit,” he says. “Little children are so excited by Christmas – it’s full

of magic and mystery and that’s what we all need a bit of right now.”

At 53 years of age, he says he has plenty of Christmases left in him yet.

As you can imagine, 2021 Santa is active on social media and you can find Norman on Tik Tok and YouTube. All the links are on his website – https://realsanta.co.nz

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 6, 2021

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Christmas lights turn on for Coast community

Surfing Santa is a new addition to Vista Motu resident Noel Hanbey’s display.

Festive light displays are expected to be more popular than ever this Christmas, and some local streets are going to great lengths to provide them.

One of the Coast’s favourite streets for Christmas lights, Vista Motu in Red Beach, has been lighting up for 25 years.

Vista Motu Sharon Fluker started it off, and still organises the lights and keeps neighbours in the loop each year. She says when it started in 1996 there were only 12 houses. Now there are around 30 homes in the blind road, which has several long driveways off it.

Paul Mathers says when he moved into the street, around 13 years ago, he was blown away by the neighbourhood comaraderie.

“The Christmas lights bring our street together,” he says.

This year’s Vista Motu displays include Santas on motorbikes, a full-size helicopter and an enormous reindeer. There is Christ in a manger in LED, large LED trees and a model village with moving ice skaters as well as 3m high tin soldiers.

“Most of the houses are doing their displays, however because of Covid we also understand and support the neighbours who wish not to do it this year,” Paul says.

“Some homes will display QR codes and we hope that people follow the Covid guidelines and wear a mask as they move around viewing the displays, also trying to maintain distancing,” he says.

“We all love doing the lights and believe that the community wants some cheering up after a hard four months.”

Greg Sager and fiance Selena Duncan hired a cherry picker to put up their lights.

Paul Mathers’ 3m tall tin soldiers at Vista Motu.

Thousands of lights have put 39 Clea View in Gulf Harbour on the Christmas lights viewing list.

Bridal Place opts out

A popular lights destination in Millwater, the little cul de sac Bridal Place, made the call last month to cancel this year’s Christmas light displays. In a social media post, the residents said that they were sad to make this decision, but it did not seem right to attract the kinds of crowds they get there, which can be up to 2000 people in just four hours. “We have to look after the health of our residents and of course the many thousands of kids that don’t have an opportunity to be protected yet. We hope you all understand, we will be back next year in all our glory,” the post said.

Lights to view at Clea View

Another street worth adding to your Christmas light-viewing route this year is Clea View in Gulf Harbour. Greg Sager of 39 Clea View says his family had just one set of lights up last Christmas. “This year we got a few more, which revealed a few dark holes, and it snowballed from there,” he says. The most recent tally is around 23,000 lights plus a snow machine.

Greg says it was the cancellation of their family snow holiday to the South Island because of lockdown that inspired the addition of the snow machine. He says the light addiction is spreading with others in Clea View joining in the fun. “We now have about 7-8 houses in Clea View putting lights up and each week we get more and more joining in,” Greg says.

“Hopefully, one year soon, Clea View will be able to give Vista Motu a run for its money!”

There are QR codes at 39 Clea View (#thirtyninelights) for scanning, along with a request to wear a mask and keep a social distance from others.

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Fill your boots – and your Christmas stockings – without leaving the Coast!

It saves time, saves petrol, and could even help save a local business.

Delicious bells

We heart Coasties

Silverdale’s Forty Thieves’ has launched Peanut Butter Filled Chocolate Bells as a Christmas treat. Handmade in Matakana by Honest Chocolat, the bells are filled with Forty Thieves’ crunchy peanut butter.

These festive goodies are also vegan and have no plastic packaging. Four Christmas bells in a box, $14.99. Order from www. fortythieves.co.nz/product/handmadepeanut-butter-filled-christmas-bells/

We love these ceramic Coasties hearts, made in NZ, which Manly Unichem owner Tania Adams had personalised just for the Hibiscus Coast. RRP $19.99 from Manly Unichem pharmacy.

Art with heart

Prints of work by graphic artist Glenn Jones are designed to raise a smile.

RRP $39.99 from Manly Unichem pharmacy.

Made in Gulf Harbour

Marina Pinel of Gulf Harbour opened her online store during lockdown, selling handcrafts such as soap, candles, bath salts and body oils – all made by Marina herself. She had a similar business in Brazil, where she is originally from, and being at home in lockdown inspired her to get it up and running again. These succulent soaps are $5 each. Visit www.morenaco.company.site

Blast from the past

Hot off the presses this week is this book looking at how Ōrewa has changed over the years. Ōrewa Then + Now is packed with large format photos documenting the early history of the seaside town, historic landmarks, prominent families and businesses, and how familiar scenes have changed – or not – over the years. Ōrewa Then + Now has been compiled and produced by Destination Ōrewa and costs $59.

It is available from Paper Plus Ōrewa, Never Ending Books and Estuary Arts, as well as at www. Ōrewabeach.co.nz/shop. Copies also at Ōrewa Library.

Our gift to you THIS CHRISTMAS

Spend $100 or more at Silverdale Mall and we’ll give you a Living Light Soy Candle for FREE! Just off the main road, 75 Silverdale Street T & C S A P P L Y. W H I L E S T O C K S L A S T. S E E W E B S I T E F O R D E T A I L S . silverdalemall.co.nz

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Stocking fillers – SHOP LOCAL

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Feathered friends

Stunning bird photography

by Deborah Martin and Paul Mason currently on show at Estuary Arts Centre can be enjoyed all year round in calendar form. The calendars are $26.31 from Estuary Arts Centre in Ōrewa.

Beautiful boards

These Our Special Places artistic cheese or serving boards are made by Bernette Malizia of Helensville. Range of sizes, from $79 at Estuary Arts Centre in Ōrewa

Oar-some gift

Gifts galore

Gecko in the Village (in Silverdale Mall) has gift ideas, much of it with a Kiwiana feel • Birds on Branch Kiwiana wall art, $105,

by Crystal Ashley • Ceramic cat hanging planters in retro style, $38.90 • Pop Tiki microfiber compact beach towels, $34

The Design Store in the Silverdale Centre has these decorative wooden oars. They are 120cm long and cost $71.99

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 6, 2021

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All you need

The Moana Rd BBQ wonder tool, $41.50 is all you need beside the barbecue. It’s a multi-tool, containing six items in one. Lucky Dip Good Jocks, made in NZ by Munro Clothing, $42 a pair. For the funky guy in your life. Both from Gecko in the Village, Silverdale Mall.

Santa loves a bargain

Magnetic gifts

About You Gifts and Flowers, a new store in Ōrewa, has a range of wooden magnetic toys for small children for $45 (right). They also have lights that hover in the air. The floating LED moon lamps, made with a 3D printer and using magnets to float, will set you back $210.

• Fun and festive bargains on a budget can be found at local $2 Shops and Op Shops. This “Chris Moose” was around $20 from an Ōrewa $2 Plus store. • Silverdale Pioneer Village’s Treats and Treasures craft shop has handmade items both new and upcycled using vintage material. Open every Saturday and Sunday, 10am-3pm.

Look what popped up!

Popping up in Coast Plaza just in time for Christmas is Beu Boutique. Among their gift ideas is this framed shell seahorse by Moi Noi Shellart, made with shells from Ōrewa Beach. RRP $30.

The store is open until Christmas, possibly longer.

NOW OPEN IN HIBISCUS COAST! What’s Hot at Estuary Arts Gift Shop A wide range of unique gifts & artworks “Support Local artists this Christmas” Jewellery, Prints, Glassware, Ceramics, Giftware

214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa 09 426 5570 www.estuaryarts.org Mon -Fri 9am to 4pm Weekends 10am to 3pm

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BOOK HEAVEN Whangaparāoa Methodist Church

Pre-Loved Books and puzzles Under new management - Now volunteer run Monday-Saturday: 10am-4pm 76 Red Beach Rd, Red Beach | phone 426 5615

New Coastie Ed Amon

edamonnz@gmail.com

Just like Eid I grew up in Karachi, Pakistan which is predominantly Muslim. Back home the time of national merriment is called Eid al-Fitr (Eid). It is a celebration following the 30 days of fasting and religious rejuvenation during the month of Ramadan.

The day before Eid is a frantic scramble to the shops for a final dash at buying special clothes to be worn on the first day of Eid. This day is a traffic nightmare with brutal price gouging but everybody expects it and is part of the experience. Our pockets are filled with cash, so pickpocketing and handbag snatchings are a nice cherry on top of this wonderful experience.

Eid celebrations last for a marathon three days. I remember fondly how I used to spend Eid with my family. On the morning of the first day, everybody goes to the mosque for special prayers and after prayers, everybody hugs each other three times. That is a lot of hugging. I used to enter the mosque smelling like a fresh rose and walked out emanating the stench of 250 sweaty men.

With my father and brothers we walk home, where a sweet dessert made with vermicelli noodles and milk along with an array of savoury treats like samosas, barbecued chicken, and spring rolls await us. After filling our belly with the assorted treats, all the adults then start giving money to the young ones of the family.

With full bellies and empty pockets (depending how young one is), we head off to the cemetery to pay our respects to our grandparents who have passed on. We then return home by lunchtime and we obviously eat all of that lunch, even if we were already full, because it is Eid and God has created extra space in our stomachs for all this food.

After lunch a constant barrage of family begins, and, of course, we eat again and again and again. We are making up for the deficit created by all the fasting in the preceding 30 days of Ramadan. There is always someone who becomes overexcited and says unsavoury things, and there is always someone who tries to rehash old family squabbles. This lasts for three days. I haven’t been a part of Eid for the past seven years, and I miss it.

Everybody goes to the mosque for special prayers and after prayers, everybody hugs each other three times. That is a lot of hugging.

Christmas has filled that void quite successfully. It is not much different from Eid. Relentless spending, friends gathering, family arguments, and lots and lots of food. It has become the holiday that I look forward to the most throughout the year. It does not matter that I am not Christian. Why would someone not like a celebration with friends, gifts, and food just on the basis of a technicality?

Covid-19 has tried to dampen the national spirit for Christmas this year but I am not going to let a deadly virus get in my way. I will find a way to celebrate. I have to, there is no other way. I have a nice matching ensemble ready to go for Christmas Day and a gathering planned with friends.

I wish everybody a fantastic Christmas and a wonderful holiday.

Mitre 10 move delayed

Mitre 10 Whangaparāoa expected to move from Karepiro Drive to Coast Plaza (the old Warehouse site) and open in September, however many factors have caused delays.

Spokesperson Cam Caithness says this included hold-ups with consents and material procurement as well as Covid restriction disruptions. The plan is to now trade through summer in the current store at Karepiro Drive and open the new store at Wade River Road by next Easter. Recruitment will begin towards the end of January for roles in the Mitre 10 store and café.

“Thanks for supporting local” Jeremy & Imogen, KBK Owners

Book your staff xmas party today.

316A HIBISCUS COAST HIGHWAY, OREWA Bookings: 09 777 6006 / 022 673 9388 kawaubaykitchen@outlook.com www.kawaubaykitchen.nz 30

| Hibiscusmatters | December 6, 2021

Join us for Christmas Day Lunch 2 sittings

Gift vouchers for Christmas available! feature.shoplocal

Cuisine Lauraine Jacobs

www.laurainejacobs.co.nz/blog/

Very traditional Christmas Cake Our family has many Christmas food traditions, as you would expect when you come from a long line of food-loving cooks.

My maternal grandmother raised her family in her native Tonga and was known as one of the best hostesses and cooks in that kingdom in her time. My mother, who came to Auckland for secondary schooling, along with her six brothers and sisters, brought all the family recipes. They were copied by hand into recipe books for her kitchen when she married, and they have long since been handed on to me.

Desserts and baking are the mainstay of our family Christmas; we have lots of desserts and with fresh strawberries, ice cream and wonderful homemade custard, the day is almost over the top with sweet delights. Nana’s steamed pudding is a must, although we no longer add the shiny threepences and sixpences that I would seek when a kid, and there is always a lightas-air pavlova covered in strawberries and a splendid chocolate log – oozing with cream – that my nieces and nephews, with young families of their own, are always asking for the recipe to make themselves.

The mainstay of the Christmas season is our family Rich Christmas Cake, and it’s one thing that can be prepared ahead and ticked off the list several weeks before the festive season becomes too busy. This is the first Christmas without my mother, so I approached baking the cake this year with a fair dose of sentiment. I have her 27cm cake tin and made the cake exactly as she did. It’s large and requires one of those very large bowls to mix everything together once the eggs and sugar are beaten and fluffy. If you don’t have a large tin, you

could bake the cake in two smaller 20cm tins, but you should reduce the cooking time by about an hour.

Once your cake is baked, add the brandy or rum if you wish. You can also add more spirits to keep it moist after about two or three weeks. Cover it well and keep in an airtight tin. It will be a joy to have it around as we hopefully move back into a more social mood as we get into December.

There’s nothing quite like a festive cake and a cuppa tea or a glass of bubbles.

Rich Christmas Cake 1.5kg mixed dried fruit, including sultanas, raisins and currants 500g butter 385g brown sugar 8 eggs 1 tablespoon golden syrup 4 tablespoons blackcurrant jam 500g flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt mix 1 teaspoon mixed spice 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 packet (150g) glacé cherries 100g blanched almonds ¼ cup brandy Optional: Apricot jam for glazing

Line a 27cm cake tin with several layers of greaseproof or brown paper. Set the oven to 160C. Place all the dried fruit in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Drain well, cool and let stand

overnight. In a large electric beater, place the softened butter and beat well together with the sugar until light and creamy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well between each addition, so they are well incorporated. Add golden syrup and blackcurrant jam and beat that in well too. Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda and spice ingredients three or four times. Add the sifted ingredients and the fruit in small alternate batches to the creamed butter, sugar and egg mixture.

To be able to have that sort of professionalism right on my door step was a real relief.

Finally, fold in the cherries.

Tip the mixture into the prepared tin and lay the almonds on the surface. Bake the cake at 160C for 4 hours. When cooked, pour ¼ cup of brandy over the surface while the cake is still warm. Cool and place in an airtight tin to mature for 2 to 4 weeks. Immediately before cutting the cake, glaze the top with melted apricot jam for a professional looking finish.

Makes one large 27cm cake.

Les Marsh Matakana resident

When I discovered my injury was actually a hernia, I was sent to a specialist in Silverdale. I was absolutely stoked to find out my surgeon operated several times a month up this way, in Warkworth in fact, and could do the operation in a relatively short time frame…about 2 weeks!

Rodney Surgical was great and I’m well on the way to full recovery.

My advice is to ask your GP if you can have it done locally.

Or ring Rodney Surgical direct.

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

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

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 www.localmatters.co.nz

MODERN

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Sallies seek toys for joy The Salvation Army Hibiscus Coast, which also serves the wider Rodney region, is working hard to mobilise the generosity of the community to provide hope to vulnerable people at Christmas.

Salvation Army lieutenants Blair and Lashana Dale were appointed to the Hibiscus Coast as Corps Officers in January, and are surprised at the level of need they’ve seen.

Tasked with leading The Salvation Army’s Christmas appeal, the couple weren’t sure how they would be able to meet the need this year with businesses and families struggling even more because of the Covid-19 lockdown.

“We’re supporting families who have never needed any sort of assistance before, and the families we’ve worked with for some time are doing it tougher than ever before,” Blair says. “We’re still hoping to provide food for a Christmas Day meal and gifts for at least 75 families, which is around 150-200 children.”

The Salvation Army on the Hibiscus Coast is hoping to have at least 400 gifts of new toys donated.

“If ever there was a year that tamariki deserve to be spoilt a little at Christmas, I think this is that year. Every child, every family should get to experience a whole lot of hope and joy this Christmas.”

More FM Rodney and Toyworld Silverdale have joined The Salvation Army Hibiscus Coast to encourage the community to donate new toys to the appeal. Toyworld Silverdale owner Lisa Dunn says she has been blown away by the generosity of people donating so far.

“We live in an incredibly generous and giving community,” she says.

Salvation Army Community Ministry

From left, Yvette Donnison, John Davies, Jake Law, Creed, Casey Tuffley and Sue Law at The Dairy Flat Club, which has asked the team to cost out a design and artworks on its water tanks.

Blair and Lashana Dale of the Hibiscus Coast Salvation Army.

centres around New Zealand expect to give more than 5200 gifts to brighten the Christmases of children around the country.

The Sallies also need community support to help families experience hope beyond the Christmas season. Financial contributions can be given at salliesgiftsofhope.org.

“All our work is made possible through the support of generous Kiwis. A little hope goes a long way”, Blair says.

Toy donations

Donations of new toys for The Salvation Army Hibiscus Coast appeal can be dropped off at: • Toyworld Silverdale, 1 Silverdale Street, Silverdale • More FM Rodney, 292 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Ōrewa • The Salvation Army Family Store, 26 Karepiro Drive, Whangaparāoa. If you or your family live in the Hibiscus Coast or Rodney area and need assistance this Christmas, you can contact The Salvation Army Hibiscus Coast on 09 426 0239, email hibiscuscoast.corps@salvationarmy.org. nz or message through facebook, @ HibiscusCoastSalvationArmy

Artists aim to colour the Coast A group of local artists have come together with the aim of creating more public artworks/murals on the Hibiscus Coast.

John Davies of Future Whangaparāoa Trust brought the group together – they include several young artists, and experienced artist and mural maker Sue Law whose work includes the mural behind Ōrewa Library, on Stanmore Bay toilet and inside Silverdale Hall.

Sue says she likes John’s concept of making more murals around the community.

“The impact of the art is what attracts me and working on a large scale is something I enjoy,” she says.

Other artists involved include Jake Law, Creed, Yvette Donnison, Casey Tuffley, Kate Monroe and Andy Swager.

Several of the artists say they are excited by the chance to give something back to the community through their artworks.

Kate says making public spaces more colourful and vibrant presents an exciting opportunity, while for Creed it’s a bit of fun as well as a contribution to the local community. Jake says it’s important to give young local artists a public place to put their work.

“Art’s valuable to society, it’s all about aesthetics and beauty in public spaces,” he says.

Andy Swager says he’s super excited about anything that brings art to the Coast. “We live in paradise and should celebrate that,” Andy says.

Already, the group has its first potential job. North Harbour Sports & Country Club in Dairy Flat (aka Dairy Flat Club) would like artworks on its seven water tanks – a large ‘canvas’ indeed, John says.

Once a budget is sorted out, John says he will fundraise to fill any funding gaps so that all the artists are paid appropriately for their work.

Currently the artists are preparing design ideas to show the club.

Next they will attempt to get permission to put up a ‘welcome to Whangaparāoa’ mural at the corner of Whangaparāoa Rd and Hibiscus Coast Highway.

There may also be an opportunity to work with Chorus on its streetside cabinets.

John is keen to hear from anyone who would like to offer support such as funding or materials. Contact him on 027 397 8920.

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Locally owned & operated, Kinetics is a physiotherapy & physical rehabilitation clinic with a friendly approach & a passion for achieving results.

For further information visit www.kineticsrehab.co.nz

Health David Cooper, physiotherapist david@kineticsrehab.co.nz

Health and wellbeing, and the different options available to help achieve it, can be a complex and challenging landscape.

exercise and herbal supplements and often extend beyond the individual to family and associated support systems.

In New Zealand, broadly speaking, there are three healthcare paradigms that we may encounter. Firstly, it must be pointed out that the follow-on term “medicine” applied to any of these can be confusing, as it implies that something must be ingested, injected or taken. However, in Western, Eastern and Māori health frameworks there are numerous treatment approaches that do not require any of these.

Over the last few decades, the traditional Western model has started recognising that by only treating individual systems, we may be missing something. The number of false positives and false negatives that we frequently encounter with xrays, MRIs and blood tests has highlighted this.

A more accurate descriptor could be ‘Western healthcare’, ‘Eastern healthcare’ and ‘Māori healthcare’.

Western healthcare originated in ancient Greece and Roman times when the body was seen as having systems that could be analysed to diagnose illness.

Fast-forward to the discovery of penicillin soon after World War 1, and suddenly a new era of healthcare began. A wide array of infections, diseases and pathogens could now be treated, or in some cases even prevented using a variety of synthetic drugs.

Eastern healthcare has been around much longer, dating back well over 5000 years. Instead of looking at body systems separately, the whole body is seen as one. In order for our heart to function well, so must the brain, kidneys and spleen. In order to treat the liver, we must also reduce stress and anxiety and improve physical fitness.

Māori healthcare sits in a similar space, with physical (tinana), spiritual (wairua), family (whanua) and mental (hinengaro) all acting as integrally connected cornerstones of wellbeing.

Treatments in those Eastern and Maori modes can include things such as acupuncture,

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As health professionals our job is to navigate this complex and exciting blend of paradigms to ensure the best outcomes for our clients.

As Socrates was quoted as saying, “The more I learn, the less I realise I know”.

In brief

Pharmacies can print vaccine passes Some local pharmacies, including Life Pharmacy Ōrewa, Manly Unichem and Whangaparāoa Family Pharmacy can now help with vaccine certificates, including printing or emailing them. Life Pharmacy’s Antony Wentworth says this is to assist those who are having trouble with the technology required to download their pass. Since last week, December 2, My Vaccine Pass, an official record of a person’s Covid-19 vaccination status, has been needed to access hospitality outlets and other facilities.

Blood donor eligibility changes There have been changes in the criteria for blood and plasma donors. Last month the NZ Blood Service (NZBS) announced that the upper age limit for first-time blood or plasma donors has increased to 71 (from 66) while existing donors may now be eligible to continue donating until the age of 81 (previously this was age 71, or 76 in some cases). It is expected that more than 300 donors may benefit from this change. NZBS spokesperson Asuka Burge says eligibility criteria are regularly reviewed based on scientific evidence and international best practice. “We know there will be plenty of donors who will be delighted to hear this news and encourage anyone who thought they might be too old to donate for the first time to consider giving lifesaving blood or plasma,” Burge says. The changes took effect from November 22. www.localmatters.co.nz

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Coastguard calls for assistance November has been an extremely busy time for Coastguard Hibiscus and with the weather improving, the wind dropping and the sun shining the Waitemata Harbour and surrounding islands have been busier than normal.

Coastguard Hibiscus is run by volunteers and without them we would not be able to operate. As our current crew members move to complete their qualifications to become qualified crew, senior and skipper, we need more volunteers.

We have had some gorgeous weekends where our vessel has done over 24 hours on the water on one weekend alone with some of our very dedicated volunteers.

We are currently recruiting for volunteers to join us and had planned an open day at our base in Stanmore Bay however the lockdown put paid to that.

Most of our work has been mechanical breakdowns however occasionally we also assist our own volunteers! A Coastguard volunteer had taken their vessel to get lifted out of the water at one of the boatyards on the Weiti River. While being lifted out by the crane, the jetty gave way and the crane came down on both their boat, and another one, which suffered much worse damage (see story p3). As they tried to get back to Gulf Harbour Marina, both engines started smoking and they had to shut them down and anchor just outside the Weiti River.

Rescue came in the form of a nice easy slow tow from Hibiscus Rescue 1, which took them back to the work berth, slower than normal, as even in slight seas the mast was moving around quite a bit due to broken rigging and extensive other damage to the vessel.

We are a great bunch of people who are passionate about boating, increasing our knowledge and making a difference to our community.

You may have seen stories in the media about a small vessel that was presumed missing but found the next day safe and sound. This highlighted the importance of having two forms of communication. While cell phones are a great option, without the ability to charge them, a VHF radio is invaluable. They key to having a VHF is knowing how to use it and what channels to use.

Coastguard Boating Education have online VHF courses which give you the skills to be able to use this effectively.

Even in slight seas the mast was moving around quite a bit due to broken rigging and extensive other damage to the vessel.

If you are interested, please contact our recruitment officer for more information recruitment@coastguardhibiscus.org.nz.

The cost of running both of our vessels is huge and to support the units each year, Coastguard New Zealand runs their Summer Lottery. Ticket sales are on now until February 14 with the big draw on February 23.

Each unit receives a significant portion of the ticket sales to help fund things like safety gear for out crew, fuel for training, equipment maintenance and upgrades and so on.

Please support your local unit by purchasing tickets from Hibiscus. Email the address at the top of this column for ticket sales.

Safe boating over the Christmas period.

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Stunning bird shots on show in Ōrewa Exquisite images of native New Zealand birds by Matakana photographers Deborah Martin and Paul Mason are on display at Ōrewa’s Estuary Arts Centre until Sunday, December 12.

Beyond What Eyes Can See features stunning close-up shots of birds, often caught mid-flight or mid-song, with soft focus backgrounds making each bird very much centre-stage and “popping” with sharpness and clarity.

Accompanying each photograph is a statement highlighting facts about each bird, and raising awareness of the threats they face.

Deborah says she and Paul share a passion for bird photography, but they also want to tell the story of each species and what they need to survive and thrive.

“We are so fortunate to live in this beautiful part of Auckland. Even during lockdown, we have the ability to witness many remarkable birds including migratory shore birds at our local beaches,” she says.

“All bar one of the birds in this exhibition need all the help they can get from humans in order to survive well into the future.”

The photographs have been taken in all sorts of settings, from backyards and beaches through to out on the open ocean. As well as the shots on display, images are available to buy as cards, calendars and framed prints.

Deborah says it’s great to be able to stage an exhibition after so long in lockdown, and she thinks Estuary Arts is well set up to keep people safe in the “new normal”.

“When we visited, we were able to quietly wander around and absorb lots of positive energy from the stunning work that is on display there at present,” she says. “They do so much to support local artists and the venue is stunning.”

Beyond What Eyes Can See is open from 9am to 4pm on weekdays and from 10am to 3pm at the weekend. Info: www. estuaryarts.org/current-exhibitions.html

The Tomashii Taiko drummers are among the performers who may be drumming up a Christmas vibe in Ōrewa in the lead up to Christmas.

Santa Claus still coming to town

From top, A magnificent white-capped mollymawk captured by Paul Mason. Tumbling red-billed gulls, aka ‘Wingdings’, by Deborah Martin.

WE ARE LOOKING FOR AWESOME NEW PEOPLE TO JOIN OUR BUS DRIVING TEAM This is a permanent part-time role for school Bus Drivers, to commence in late January 2022. Local daily school bus runs (am and pm) on the Hibiscus Coast, North Shore and Rodney areas, from 20 hours per week depending on the run and there is also charter work available too.

We are based in Dairy Flat. School bus driving is an ideal role for a change of lifestyle, something easy, relaxing, rewarding and fun. Being a Bus Driver is more than being professional and driving a bus. It's also about looking after passengers and getting our future generations safely to and from school. We have a great reputation for the very best quality of service, so it's very important that we have the right people for this important job.

We need people who are: Responsible, friendly, and professional • Enjoy driving and have safety at heart • Class 2 Licence and P endorsement (we can help you obtain these). The process includes a Drug and Alcohol Test and Police Vetting check.

Apply now: ph 09 426 5504 or richard@bayes.co.nz • danny@bayes.co.nz www.localmatters.co.nz

In an effort to make the 10 days before Christmas more festive, Destination Ōrewa Beach is bringing outdoor entertainment to the town centre.

They will be small, street corner activities, designed to be viewed by passers by and add vibrancy to the town centre, but not to gather an audience.

They include musical buskers, twilight fire dancers, roaming cartoon characters handing out sweets, and chances to see Santa and have free digital photos taken.

Currently the start of these activities is planned for the afternoon of December 15.

There will be a number of opportunities to see Santa on his sleigh and have photos taken, starting on December 20. There are also low sensory Santa photo opportunities, which must be pre-booked through Destination Ōrewa Beach.

Santa will also roam Ōrewa at set times.

Whangaparāoa Guides are providing a free gift wrapping service outside Ōrewa’s Paper Plus, also at set times.

All the activities are funded from the budget for the cancelled Ōrewa Santa Parade provided by the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board.

The schedule is subject to change due to Covid limitations or weather. Schedule info and updates: www.Ōrewabeach. co.nz and Destination Ōrewa Beach’s Facebook page.

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35

Blast from the past Susanne Wilson

FB: Hibiscus Coast History

The Gulf Harbour course is the venue for a major event on next year’s golfing calendar.

Golf spectacle for Gulf Harbour The NZ Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) is bringing some top golfing action to Gulf Harbour Country Club next year.

The NZ PGA championship is one of the tournaments on the PGA Tour of Australasia.

It is scheduled for April 7-10 and it’s the first time the Gulf Harbour course has hosted this particular event, which was last played in Auckland seven years ago.

Other prestigious tournaments held on the Gulf Harbour course include Golf World Cup in 1998, two NZ Opens in the mid2000s and the Charles Tour last season.

Gulf Harbour Country Club’s director of golf, Frazer Bond, says the PGA will be a great event for the community, as well as the club.

“After the success of the Charles tour, this is another step forward for the club,” Frazer says. “It’s a chance to see a top field of NZ and international players right in our backyard.”

He says the plan is to make the event free to watch, as well as having sponsor areas and VIP areas with ticket access.

“There will be something for everyone who wants to come along and enjoy the event,”

This is Whangaparāoa Golf Course in the 1960s. The course was originally a 9-hole course on land donated by Jack Hobbs. It opened in 1954 and two years later the club committee was created, and was able to purchase more land to create the 18-hole course. Locals have been golfing there for nearly 70 years and it’s still going strong.

Photo, courtesy Christine Waters

Santa’s speaks Te Reo

NZ Post says children have until Wednesday, Dec 22, to send an online message to Santa Claus and they will receive an emailed response before Christmas Day. NZ Post says it has been working closely this Christmas with Santa and his elves, to ensure Kiwi kids receive a response to their letters. This year, Santa has already replied to more letters in Te Reo Māori than he did in 2020. NZ Post says popular items on Kiwi kids’ wish lists are remote control cars, unicorns and books. Other requests include for loved ones to be home for Christmas, for confidence heading into a new school and for a baby brother or sister. To make and send a digital postcard to Santa, visit www.nzpost.co.nz/writetosanta

Silverdale Santa online

Local company Santa Express has launched Our Virtual Santa Calls, which operate out of its Silverdale office. During the live video calls, spokesperson Chantel Dicks says Santa spends 10 minutes talking with children. Santa Express also offers personalised letters from Santa. Virtual Santa calls are available from November 19-24 December. Info and bookings www.santaexpress.co.nz

he says.

PGA events marketing and communications manager Nick Cowan says although it’s too early to give definite numbers, they are planning for 100-120 top players to take part. National and global media generally provide coverage of the tournament.

“The NZ PGA Championship is the country’s second biggest golf tournament (the NZ Open is the biggest) and as it is being staged a week after the NZ Open, we are expecting a fantastic occasion at Gulf Harbour Country Club,” Cowan says.

As well as prize money, the winner gets an Australasian tour card, which Cowan says is very sought after.

PGA championship fact check • The NZ PGA Championship was first played in 1920, and has featured many famous champions including Andy Shaw, Kel Nagle, Sir Bob Charles, Greg Turner, Frank Nobilo, and Michael Hendry.

• The tournament also fosters up and coming talent with major championship winners Jason Day and Bubba Watson being past competitors.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 6, 2021

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Coast Critters James Dale, naturalist j.dale@massey.ac.nz

Photo, James Dale

The secret lives of tūi What is the most iconic New Zealand bird species? That would have to be the kiwi I suppose, but coming up for second place I would nominate the tūi. Its distinctive iridescent blue/black plumage and unique chest puffs make them instantly recognisable.

Despite tūī being a common and iconic endemic species of Aotearoa New Zealand, we still have much to learn about the biology of this remarkable bird. Indeed, only recently have biologists resolved the details of the tūi mating system.

The tūi breeding season has been underway for some time, and like most species of birds, they form pair bonds during nesting. It is a great time to watch tūi right now as they court, chase each other, do energetic display flights, sing loudly (and early!) and generally just make spectacles of themselves.

Ultimately though, a male and female will form an ongoing association as they cooperate to raise a brood of youngsters.

Dr Sarah Wells of Unitec Institute of Technology did her PhD research at Massey University on tūi mating behaviour. Females build the nests on their own and once the eggs are laid, do all the incubation. When the eggs hatch, females are also the primary caregivers. They feed their young insects, and you may have noticed tūi hunting them in bushy trees like mānuka and kānuka. They

Surf lifesaving sign off

also like to get into the eaves of houses and scout about for spiders. While mum does most of this work, dad will also bring food to the chicks. Some dads are pretty good food providers and some not so much. Why are tūī dads such slackers?

Why are tūi dads such slackers?

To address this question, Dr. Wells caught mated pairs of tūi and took tiny blood samples from them. She also took tiny blood samples from the chicks after they had grown. She then analysed the DNA in the blood to resolve the parentage of the chicks. The results of this research were quite a surprise.

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Overall, fully 50 percent of the chicks were not related to the males that were taking care of them. This is known as extra-pair mating and is a common phenomenon in bird species that form monogamous pair bonds.

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However, tūi have an exceptionally high rate of extra-pair young. This probably explains why tūī dads do not contribute that much parental care. If, on average, half the young in the nest are not actually theirs, then natural selection would favour those males that pull back on investing in these young, and instead channel their energy into other pursuits.

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Ōrewa Surf Lifesaving finally has the sign off it needs from Auckland Council to proceed with building its new clubrooms and community facility on Ōrewa Beach. At the end of last month the organisation received approval for its amended Resource Consent – a significant milestone for the project. The club first got consent in 2016, but this had to be amended after the requirement for the building to be moved further inland due to predicted sea level rise (HM October 25). Ōrewa Surf chair Faron Turner says the club would like to thank Council staff as well as Hutchinson Engineers, Paua Planning and Product X, who he says went out of their way to ensure the consent was granted as quickly as possible. He says the club expects that an amended lease will be approved by the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board soon, which then allows the club to launch a major funding campaign in the New Year. www.localmatters.co.nz

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December 6, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

37

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HIBISCUS COAST CRICKET Junior and senior cricket returns on December 4, although all school cricket has been cancelled. The club is also running Superstar Skills and Games free for Term 4 .Info: www.hibiscuscricket.co.nz MOUNTAIN BIKING CHAMPS Congratulations to Ōrewa College’s Mountain Bike team and parent/manager Adele Courtenay, who were awarded first place for 2021 Auckland College Championship MTB XC series. Top place medals were also achieved by Blake Courtenay, second U15, and Lucas Colman, third in U15.

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hopefully

What’s on ...

Advertisment

To list events, email: online@localmatters.co.nz

Note: All events subject to appropriate Covid Alert Levels

November

22-Dec 12

Beyond What Eyes can See – bird photographs by Deborah Martin and Paul Mason, Estuary Arts Centre, Ōrewa (see story p35)

December

13-Jan 9

Where the Sea Birds Go group exhibition, Estuary Arts Centre, Ōrewa. Multi media exhibition featuring nearly 30 NZ artists who look at why we have lost 70 percent of our seabirds since the 1950s.

30-Jan 4

Waterworld Aquapark comes to Red Beach. Inflatable course for everyone aged 5 years and up Info and bookings: www.wipeout.co.nz

See www.localmatters.co.nz/

Pharmacy Talk with Tania Adams

Pharmacist at Unichem Manly

COVID Conundrums “Macne” is the latest COVID buzz word. It refers to the acne appearing on the lower part of your face caused from wearing your mask for hours on end. Even if you haven’t had acne since being a teenager, it seems to be literally rearing it’s ugly head! Nexcare have developed an Acne Absorbing Cover. It is a small patch that you place over the pimple while you sleep. It contains hydrocolloid technology which absorbs the gross stuff and helps your skin to heal. For more extensive acne issues, there are some wonderful skin care products available including the Eau Thermale Avene Clenance range which has been specifically developed for cleansing and moisturizing oily skin.

MADE or Mask Associated Dry Eye is also a thing! We have many customers coming to the pharmacy complaining of a discomfort or burning sensation in their eyes, blurred vision and redness. The increased flow of warmer air close to your eyes generated by wearing a mask causes your tears to evaporate more quickly and leaves your eyes feeling dry, irritated and less lubricated. There are several solutions. Firstly, some adjustments to your mask. Using a mask with a metal strip incorporated means you can fit it more closely to your face to stop the air escaping.

Alternatively try rolling a tissue and placing it across the top underside of your mask. The adjustments help with fogging glasses too. You will also need some artificial tear drops such as Systane or Hydrofresh to relieve your symptoms. Eye drops for redness however should be avoided.

Let me be clear though, wearing your mask is a necessity. These problems can be annoying but are easily overcome.

Hibiscus ho ho ho

Food and vouchers are starting to flow into Hibiscus Matters’ office for our Christmas Buy Local Give Local campaign. Thank you to all who have dropped off items.

Everything donated goes to three Coast charities – Hibiscus Coast Community House foodbank, Love Soup and Whangaparāoa Police – to make Christmas a little brighter for local families. Christmas treat food, staple non-perishable foods and vouchers from supermarkets, petrol stations or local businesses are requested. Items can be put (contactless) under the tree at our office, 21 Florence Ave, Ōrewa, until Tuesday December 14. Merry Christmas!

Re-entry Anxiety is a term coined to describe the feeling of being slightly over-whelmed by the thought of going back to the office, classroom or even just to the supermarket in these unprecedented pandemic times.

Brave Face is a natural product range just launched that uses clinically proven ingredients to help reduce feelings of stress and worry. There are also a variety of other natural health products available that may alleviate your stress. For example, whilst more research is needed, studies suggest that products containing l-theanine may be quite relaxing and studies show that St John’s wort can have a similar effect to antidepressants on mild depression without as many of the side effects (watch for interactions with this though). Depression and anxiety can be caused or worsened by lockdowns, vaccination fears and worries surrounding the pandemic, so please come and speak to one of our natural health experts or pharmacists so we can help you navigate your options.

COVID kilos - staying at home during lockdown with not so many distractions means many have turned to baking and even more have turned to eating! Now is a great time to invest in shedding those three or four (or more) kilos that were gained. Weight loss shake diets are a great way to kick-start your weight loss during this busy time. They work by controlling the amount of carbohydrates, proteins and fats you consume each day. The resulting restriction on carbohydrate intake means that after a certain amount of time your body will naturally end up using it’s fat stores for energy, leading to quick weight loss results. Vita Diet is an easy to follow program with 5 daily steps and an unlimited snacking list.

To get rid of your COVID kilos safely, come and see us and get the advice of one of our pharmacists or trained staff.

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

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Manly Pharmacy

Your local health professional December 6, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

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From left, Andy Jordan and Hayden Wright who facilitate Cardio Tennis.

Tennis with a cardio twist

If you thought that all tennis was a cardio workout – even if it’s just chasing the ball after failing to hit it – think again. A fun option that combines a bit of cardio exercise with a bit of tennis has been re-introduced after several years’ absence at Silverdale Tennis Club. It has been brought back by club coach Hayden Wright of AceEm who says it seems the right time for something that is all about fun and social interaction, as well as tennis and fitness. Cardio Tennis is open to the whole community – whether you are a club member or not. There’s no need for any previous tennis experience as each session is targeted to the ability of participants and rackets can be provided. Hayden says previous Cardio Tennis players have included people aged from 7-84 years, as well as families. The sessions include a warm up, with a few tennis ball-related activities and games; some drills where the ball is fed to the player and returned, interspersed with a little running. The tennis component could be three or four players opposing each other, with little spurts of aerobic activity in between. At the end is a warm down and stretch. “What I love about this, and tennis in general, is that it’s intergenerational and provides an enjoyable fitness session without going to the gym,” Hayden says. The hour-long sessions cost $15 each, or $120 for 10. However, Hayden will also be offering a number of free sessions prior to Christmas.

Info and bookings: email tennis@aceem.co.nz or phone Hayden, 021 747 839.

New carpet bowls over Manly members A new artificial surface was recently laid on one of Manly Bowling Club’s three greens and members got to play on it for the first time last Friday.

Club president Bill Trotter on the special carpet rolls.

One thing they can be assured of, after spending around $150,000 on the process, is that it’s as level as level can be.

It is also the first of Field Turf ’s new carpet weave to be laid in the country.

Club president Bill Trotter says while the NZ standard is for a 4mm tolerance for a level bowling surface, they have exceeded that – aiming for just 2mm.

That job of perfect leveling falls first to contractors Field Turf. After that, a group of surveyors from the NZ Sports Institute will check the levels and certify it to NZ standard. They will return, three months later, to check that nothing has changed.

The surface being replaced is also carpet, which was put down around 14 years ago. Over time the

fabric begins to rot and come loose – for the past six months that green has not been playable.

Initially the replacement surface was expected to cost in the vicinity of $250,000 but Bill says the club worked with Bowls NZ to find the chosen supplier and this, plus the fact that the original surface was so well laid, reduced the cost by around $100,000.

The club dug deep to come up with the funds – including doing without the weekly prizes that are usually offered for games.

The Covid-19 lockdown delayed the project, which was originally to be started in August.

The first bowls were to be rolled on the new surface at the club’s summer opening on December 3.

Bill describes the club as “Manly’s best kept secret”.

At the same time, with a brand new state of the art carpeted green – perhaps he’s hoping that secret will now come out.

NOBODY CAN HEAR IN A NOISY PLACE, RIGHT? The most common first sign of a reduction in hearing ability is difficulty understanding people when there are lots of competing sounds around you, such as in a café, a busy restaurant or family gathering. This reduction usually occurs very gradually and leaves you having to ask people to repeat, or resorting to nodding and smiling, hoping you have said, “Yes” and “No” at the right time.

The friendly, professional team at HEAR AGAIN are here to help. They can quickly assess your hearing with a FREE Initial Hearing Check; clear your ears of wax using gentle micro-suction; or if you need them, they have the very latest European Digital Hearing Devices.

Give your ears a treat today!

www.hearagain.co.nz www.hearagain.co.nz 40 | Hibiscusmatters | December 6, 2021

09 4246035

COAST PLAZA, WHANGAPARAOA info@hearagain.co.nz info@hearagain.co.nz www.localmatters.co.nz