9, 13 & 23
Coast sports teams contest top competitions
It’s the pointy end of the winter sport season, and some top of the table, high quality clashes are being played locally. Supporters have been turning out in large numbers to football, rugby and league matches and there has been no shortage of drama. In some cases, getting within reach of major trophies has made history for the clubs involved.
With a crowd of around 1000 supporters, whose shouts could be heard around
Stanmore Bay, Hibiscus Coast AFC’s premier men’s team contested the quarter final of the prestigious Chatham Cup at home on July 27.
Their opponents, Coastal Spirit from Christchurch, came to the match unbeaten this season. They play in the Southern Premier League, while Coast are in the second-tier NRFL Men’s Championship, making Coast the underdogs. It was the first time the local team had got as far as this round.
The trophy itself was at the club to view, FIFA Plus cameras were poised for live streaming and everyone from club president Scott Beard to the ball kids, loyal supporters of all ages, and the wider community, were buzzing on the sidelines. Ahead of the game, Beard said whatever the result, the club remained very proud of the team.
What followed was a gripping contest described on the Friends of Football website
as “a Chatham Cup tie for the ages”. Both teams gave 100 percent commitment from kick-off. There were goals in quick succession, a couple of yellow cards, an injury to defender Adam Windelburn, and a dramatic double save by Coast goalkeeper Josh Precious.
A draw was not possible, so with the game tied at 2-2, extra time was called for. Both teams scored a further goal, leading to a continued p2
Big games are being won and lost on the Coast, attracting record crowds. Although it experienced a gut-wrenching loss by the smallest of margins, the Coast premier men’s football team can hold its head high after its Chatham Cup quarter final. Pictured after missing the final penalty shot is Coast’s Cooper Tyler, as opponents Coastal Spirit celebrate their win.
21 Florence Ave, Ōrewa, 0931 | ph 09 427 8188
Hibiscusmatters
Localmattersnz
issue: August 26, 2024
General manager: Jannette Thompson gm@localmatters.co.nz
Editorial: Terry Moore ph 022 019 6569 terry@localmatters.co.nz
Patrick Goodenough ph 022 549 8271 news@localmatters.co.nz
Advertising: Angela Gallagher ph 022 029 1895 sellit@localmatters.co.nz
Leigh Cameron ph 022 096 8517 sales@localmatters.co.nz
Graphic design: Lorry McCarthy hibiscus@localmatters.co.nz
continued from p1
penalty shootout, where again, they traded goal for goal. It was only after 11 goals, in sudden death, that the Coast came up short, Spirit taking the game 6-5 on penalties.
The Friends of Football report stated that the game “should be long remembered for its contribution to the folklore of NZ’s oldest club competition”.
Beard said that the quarter final made history for the club and everyone is tremendously proud.
“For this to happen in the club’s 50th anniversary year, adds to it even more,” he said.
Masked support for player and coach Tyler Agiovlassitis. The 101-year-old Chatham Cup, a silver replica of the FA Cup, was an honoured guest at the Stanmore Bay club. It was presented to the NZ Football Association in 1922 by the captain and crew of HMS Chatham, in appreciation for the hospitality that the Royal Navy ship received in NZ. The cup has been contested almost every year since 1923 (apart from 1937 and 1941-44) and is NZ Football’s longest-running national club competition.
Photo, Carla Newman/Jermacsz
Silverdale U85 nails season’s goal
After winning the home semi-final the weekend before (HM July 29), Silverdale Rugby’s U85 team lined up for the championship final, again at home, on Saturday, July 27.
U85 team manager and front row player James Wilcock says the atmosphere was electric, with a crowd surrounding the entire field.
It was a game of two halves, with Silverdale starting strongly and Takapuna putting itself back in contention in the second half.
Defence was key then, enabling Silverdale to hold the win, 27-21.
Wilcock says the win means a lot to the team, as the club last won the U85s in 2019.
“The trophy has been the goal that the team has worked hard to achieve ever since we were knocked out in the semi-finals last year,” he says.
Next season they hope to retain the title, but they are currently focused on the U85s national cup competition – their first cup game was on August 3.
SCRAP METAL & DEMOLITION
Exceptional season for Raiders
Hibiscus Coast Raiders premier and reserves men’s teams both finished top of the table in their Sharman Cup championships – it’s the first time in more than 20 years that they have reached their respective finals. The reserves booked themselves a spot in the Sharman Cup premier reserves grand final with an emphatic 58-28 victory over Mangere East, at home, on August 3. The final will also be played at Raiders’ Stanmore Bay grounds on August 17. Kick-off is at 12.45pm and league fans are encouraged to come and cheer them on. The premier men have gone unbeaten this season, and their Sharman Cup semi-final versus Ponsonby Ponies was on August 10 (after this paper went to print). A win would see them contest the grand final at Mt Smart Stadium on Friday, August 16.
Photo, Roger Reid
Pair on bail in Ōrewa after Gulf Harbour homicide
Two Ōrewa residents facing criminal charges in connection with the discovery of a body wrapped in a bag off Gulf Harbour on March 12 can now be named.
Kaixiao Liu and Lanyue Xiao, both 36, appeared in the North Shore District Court on July 1, the morning after they were flagged while trying to leave the country. They are not accused of the murder of the, as yet unidentified, female victim, but face the unusual charge of “offering an indignity” to a body. Police are not ruling out further arrests or charges. No one has been charged with killing the woman as yet.
A judge dismissed the pair’s interim name suppression and, as their lawyer did not lodge an appeal within 28 days, the interim order lapsed, a court official confirmed last week. The pair are due to appear on September 17 for case review.
Bail conditions required both Liu and Xiao to surrender their passports on July 2, and not apply for new travel documents. They are bailed to an address in Harvest Avenue, Ōrewa – the same house police and forensic staff searched extensively last month.
In addition to a nighttime curfew, Liu and Xiao are forbidden to contact three individuals, named as Hong Chen, Tao Zhang and Xiaohui Hu. They may not “text, call, meet, go near, use social media to contact or communicate in any other way with them”. They are also not allowed to ask someone else to contact those
individuals on their behalf.
Court documents released to Hibiscus
Matters say Liu and Xiao interfered with a body on March 8 – four days before a fisherman made the grisly discovery.
The find sparked the ongoing police investigation, which has so far included seeking help from Interpol partners and encouraging community involvement.
Police have described a petite woman of Asian ethnicity and made public photos of distinctive clothing she was wearing, including pyjama pants.
An Ōrewa resident who saw the photos in the press recalled having seen a woman wearing pyjamas, walking with two other people in central Ōrewa in March. She notified police who studied CCTV footage
(HM, July 15).
Police thanked people who had come forward with information during the investigation, but said that as the probe was ongoing, “we are unable to go into the specifics of what information has been received. We continue to ask those who might have information to assist, to get in touch.”
Council attempts to put country club owner into liquidation
This week sees a further twist in the long and complex tale of Gulf Harbour Country Club, as Auckland Council seeks to put the owner, Long River Investments, into liquidation.
The country club was closed almost a year ago and the site largely abandoned by the owner. Vandalism and arson followed, resulting in council stepping in to demolish the unsafe buildings.
Council is owed more than $200,000 by the company for costs incurred in demolition of the damaged buildings following the suspicious fires in May.
On August 6, council advertised that it would ask the High Court to wind up Long River Investments.
A spokesperson says that council initially applied to liquidate Long River Investments for unpaid rates, following the company’s failure to satisfy a demand for $18,386. That proceeding was commenced on June 20, by which time the debt had risen to
$25,804. The litigation costs council will incur are around $1000. The case comes before the court on Friday, August 16.
A previous attempt to put Long River into liquidation, for the sum of $20,000 by the former café owner, failed when the company came up with the money at the eleventh hour.
In addition, Council has not yet invoiced Long River for the demolition costs of more than $200,000, as it was waiting for a final, accurate total. The spokesperson says that invoice was to be sent to Long River last week. If it goes unpaid, the debt can become a charge on the land, as set out in the Building Act, so that it must be paid before the property can be sold or transferred.
If Long River is liquidated, the costs of the demolition work will be notified to the liquidators, along with the unpaid rates and any other amounts owing to council by Long River, the spokesperson says.
Public meeting this week
Lobby group Keep Whangaparāoa’s Green Spaces (KWGS), which wants to see the site remain as a golf course, is holding a second public meeting this week. Spokesperson Howard Baldwin says the meeting will include discussion about the letter that council chief executive Phil Wilson wrote to Long River Investments (HM July 29) and the next steps. He says there may also be discussion around what could come into play if KWGS becomes aware of any attempt by Long River Investments to fast-track a resource consent via the government’s planned legislation. Both local councillors, Wayne Walker and John Watson, will speak at the meeting and Hibiscus and Bays Local Board chair Alexis Poppelbaum will also attend. The meeting is open to everyone and will be held on Thursday, August 15 at Whangaparāoa College auditorium, at 7pm.
Leisure centre value to community loud and clear
A proposal to outsource the management of all Auckland Council’s pool and leisure centres drew fierce opposition once it was made public (HM July 29).
Concerns included that contracting out management could alter the affordable, inclusive, community focus possible at council-run facilities.
Around half of the centres are already outsourced to organisations such as The Y and Belgravia Leisure – 20 out of 42 – with the rest directly run by council, including the Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre. In all cases, local boards set service levels. Behind the scenes, since 2021, council staff have been undertaking a review, triggered by the contracts of privately operated centres coming up for renewal.
Cost effectiveness was the focus of the review and it identified potential savings in contracting out all the centres. Expressions of interest were sought for this option, which Cr John Watson says was clearly the report’s preference.
He says the issue was sprung on councillors recently at a workshop, then came before them for a decision at the governing body’s meeting on August 1.
The options presented were to retain the status quo, fully outsource, or partially outsource management (a third retained by council).
The Hibiscus and Bays Local Board’s feedback in the report that came before the meeting did not support full outsourcing.
Cr Watson says it was clear from the deluge
of emails that he and Cr Wayne Walker received that locals wanted the Stanmore Bay centre retained in council management.
“People said how much they value the centre, in particular the staff and its affordability,” Cr Watson says. “There were moving letters about its importance for local families’ lives and wellbeing.”
At the meeting, the Public Service Association union delegate Martin Graham urged councillors to vote ‘no’ to full outsourcing.
“The council and private market don’t have the same interests or incentives,” he said. “The public oppose privatisation and we have many members who are angry and upset about this proposal.”
Cr Watson said it was disappointing that leisure centre staff had been kept in the dark, especially when it was clear that most of the potential savings were to be made from staff cuts.
“They were not given a chance to discuss how performance can be improved, although the union said they would welcome that,” Cr Watson said.
Cr Walker described the Stanmore Bay centre as “a top performer”, with impressive membership growth, high satisfaction in membership surveys and increasing demand as the population grows.
All the figures and financial benefits and risks across the leisure centres remain
confidential, but Mayor Wayne Brown said in terms of financial sustainability, something needed to be done, as the centres’ overheads were “horrific”.
The decision was made in a confidential session, with both local councillors voting for the status quo option that was agreed unanimously.
Cr Walker says greater efficiencies and savings will be sought, with an additional $3m per annum needing to be found across all the leisure centres.
“All the centres, including the outsourced ones, will be under scrutiny now,” he said. “Attention will be paid to things like better branding too.”
Outsourcing also considered for council holiday parks
Outsourcing has also been considered for the operation of Auckland Council’s holiday parks, and this too was kept under wraps until recently.
From July 1, the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board became responsible for decisions and budgets for Ōrewa Holiday Park, but this process has been in the wings since 2020 when council considered alternative delivery models for its three holiday parks – Ōrewa, Martins Bay and Whangateau. Both the Hibiscus and Bays and Rodney Local Boards resolved not to outsource those operations, which is why that responsibility has been handed to them.
Local board chair Alexis Poppelbaum says the board advocated to keep the facility council managed and operated.
“It will be run as a profit-making business, with the local board now making the
decisions around it,” she says. Those profits will go to the local board, but it also needs to find the money for ongoing work. Poppelbaum says the local board has sufficient funding for the existing set of planned holiday park capital works. Anything further would require a local board decision to fund either from the board’s capital budget, or from other sources. It is also responsible, in part, for its longterm future.
“The local board can sell the physical structures that sit on the land at the Ōrewa Holiday Park. It can also decide to outsource operations via a lease to third party operator. Council does not own the land, which is held by the Crown and is classified as a Recreation Reserve – therefore the land cannot be sold,” Poppelbaum says.
Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre was staunchly defended by local residents who believed its community focus would be threatened if management was outsourced. Photo, Bridget Longden
Surf park feedback positive
An estimated 200 people dropped into Dairy Flat Hall on July 27 to hear more about the Auckland Surf Park that is to be built in Dairy Flat and talk to those behind the facility.
An additional drawcard was the chance to meet project ambassador, Sir John Kirwan. Surf park developer Aventuur gained resource consent for the project in June via the fast-track method and held the drop-in to provide information and get community feedback.
The 43ha park to be built at 1350 Dairy Flat Highway, includes a surfing lagoon with waves customised to the surfers’ abilities. There will also be high performance sport and leisure facilities, tourist accommodation, a restaurant and walking and cycling trails.
Two unique aspects of the development are the 7ha solar farm and Spark North Shore Data Centre. Spark’s customer and growth lead, Matt Ryan said the data centre building will consist of around 15,500sqm of gross floor area on 1-2 levels and be below the 15m height limit. By comparison, the CDC data centre in Highgate, Silverdale is 11,000sqm on 3-4 levels.
In general data centres are functional, rather than attractive, but Ryan said this one will be architecturally designed with sound buffering, screening and landscaping.
The data centre will be powered by the solar farm, as well as the grid. In turn, heat from its servers will warm the surfing lagoon via a closed loop heat exchange system.
Neighbours of the site who attended the open day, including Ian Gatman, Brian Sutton and Phillipa Hanson, see the development as a positive move for the growing area.
“Young people and families need
somewhere to go,” Gatman said, adding that Aventuur had not ruled out his suggestion of adding BMX or mountain biking tracks.
Kirwan, a lifelong surfer, said it was good to see questions being asked about things such as the surf break and sustainability.
Accessibility, regarding admission costs, were also being questioned, he said. There will be a range of membership options as well as general admission, but he said it is too early to provide price estimates.
Earthworks are expected to begin before the end of this year. The data centre and pool will be built first, and the 7ha solar farm added just in time for the opening, in the summer of 2026/27.
w Back stories www.localmatters.co.nz June 12 and November 13, 2023, July 1, 2024
homeAskaboutourfree drop-offpick-upand service!**someconditionsapply.
From the tapestry of the Canterbury Plains to the rugged alps of Mt Cook and down through the tussockcovered mountains of Lindis Pass. These lupin lined roads border the way to many an exciting experience, including a night at the Hermitage Hotel where you’ll find yourself floating around larger than life icebergs!
Join us and witness the elusive Kaimanawa horses running free in the harsh high country of the Central Plateau. Starting with a scenic train journey on the Northern Explorer to Ohakune, we then explore the local area and with a concession from the army we spend a full day observing the horses in their natural environment.
Auckland Surf Park advocate Sir John Kirwan was happiest talking surfing with like-minded visitors to the drop-in day.
LocalOpinion OurOpinion
Close to home sports
This is quite a sporty issue of Hibiscus Matters – reflecting not only that the Olympic Games have been on, but the quality of sport being played locally and the unprecedented level of support those matches are attracting. Around 1000 people turning up to watch local football and rugby is a new benchmark for sideline support, in my experience. As your local reporter I have a basic understanding of many sports. I am on the sidelines for everything from Primary School netball, cross country running and athletics to last season’s cricket championship win and a recent Chatham Cup football match. You can see how much competitors put into it, at any level, and of course that effort can make for drama and good photos too – if you’re fast enough! Sport is tough. You feel the losses, as well as the wins and sometimes those results can turn on the tiniest of dimes. But it’s clear from the numbers turning up to participate, and cheer Coast teams on, that sport plays a big role in our social, physical and mental health. Not one person at last month’s Chatham Cup game was on their phones as they watched the game unfold before them. And I have stood with parents in wind and rain wishing that our children played an indoor sport, but there beside the courts, every week, just the same. Increasingly, our teams, from school level up, are making their presence felt. Hibiscus Cricket were national champions last season, and college teams – including Whangaparāoa’s senior netball last year –also take top honours. A number of winter codes are contesting, and taking, titles too. Playing sport locally can be a pathway – just ask Shaun Johnson, Michaela Sokolich-Beatson, or the Paralympian and Olympians featured on this issue’s back page. For the less competitive among us, it is also a pathway – even if it simply leads to a more active life. Recently, one of the Coast’s most popular gyms, the Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre, was in the spotlight as its owner, Auckland Council, considered contracting out management. This paper watched the results with interest, (see story p4) noting that the key was accessibility and maintaining the high standards of the current staff, who have given the place a community focus that its members value. Because a passion for sports and physical activity starts close to home.
Terry Moore, Editor
Contributions to this page are welcome but letters under 250 words are preferred. We reserve the right to abridge as necessary. Unabridged versions can be read at www. localmatters.co.nz/opinion Letters should be sent to terry@localmatters.co.nz or 21 Florence Ave, Ōrewa 0931. Note: We do not publish abusive or unsigned letters.
Editor moves on
After 17 years in the job, Hibiscus Matters’ editor, Terry Moore, is moving on. She is planning a semi-retirement that involves work for various environmental causes and volunteering. Terry’s last paper will be the September 9 edition.
Native plants please
Though it’s nice to see ornamental cabbages planted on the corner of Florence Avenue in Ōrewa, constantly re-planting annuals seems to me to be a labour intensive and expensive solution to cheering up the roundabout. Why not plant perennial flowering NZ natives like hebes and kakabeak, or those with red berries that attract native birds? This would involve minimum annual maintenance whilst perhaps inspiring local garden owners to add more natives into their own designs. Native plants support up to 40 times the number of native insects that exotics support, and insects are a major source of food for birds. We have a kōwhai tree on our section which is visited regularly by kereru native wood pigeons. They never land on the exotics.
Andrew Westaway, Ōrewa
Auckland Council area operations acting manager Hibiscus and Bays – Upper Harbour, Travis Committie responds: “The area in question is small in size and our plantings provide a great pop of colour and detail to the area. The arrangements change throughout the year to showcase different colours, and patterns on display for the local community to enjoy. Seasonally, these plant species may change to suit weather conditions and survival rates, hence why from time-totime ornamental cabbages may be used. A conversation with local board members will be tabled to gauge if there is any interest in using perennial flowering native species as an alternative in some annual bed locations. Auckland Council has also carried out extensive revegetation planting and urban ngahere planting projects across the region – including in the Hibiscus and Bays local board area – in which we have planted thousands of native and exotic plants that help to encourage and support native birds
More road woes
I’ll add to the previous letters by Bob Bicker and Karen Lewis about unnecessary road surfacing. For some reason perfectly good sections of Cochrane Ave in Arkles Bay and Millwater Parkway (westbound) by Briscoes was dug up and resurfaced. I’m wondering if these were beginner contractors in light of the finish. I have driven on gravel roads that are in better condition than the way these were finished – so corrugated and rough. I wonder what AT would have to say – oh, yeah silly me they will decline to comment. Talk about further alienating yourself from the public.
Sean Paterson, Arkles Bay
An AT spokesperson responds: These are/ were pre-seal repairs to the road, preparing the surface for final reseal. The reseal will be asphalt concrete for a smooth surface. We have started with the final re-seal work on Millwater Parkway and expected to finish on Thursday (August 8). We have some more pre-seal work on Cochrane and will start the final seal soon after it is done.
Hobbs Bay lowers expectations
Before Hoppers started the development at Hobbs Bay Estate locals were told that there would be a café and that the beach would become a public beach. The disruption and noise from the development was easier to endure knowing that there would soon be a café and beach that locals could enjoy, however at the Open Day on August 4 we discovered that the best part of the beach will become the proposed marina (the water quality of the remaining section of beach will, to some degree, be lower due to the adjacent marina) and the cafe will probably now be a daycare or daycare/cafe. Concerns have also been raised that insufficient space for parking has been allocated for either option. We’re left feeling disappointed and misled.
Michael Tonkin, Gulf Harbour (abridged) Shana Hopper-McCully Hopper Development Sales & Marketing Manager responds (abridged): We were blown away by the turnout and response from the Open Day, with an estimated 400 plus people attending. In response to the letter above expressing concerns: At the initial consultation with residents, we sought support to gain resource consent for the Hobbs Homestead to operate
as a café/restaurant. This would give us the option to convert the homestead at a later stage. Not being café operators ourselves, we have yet to test the viability of providing a café in a heritage building. A café in the homestead remains our preference, and we are committed to achieving an outcome that benefits our property buyers and the surrounding community. Many factors affect the sustainability and viability of a successful café/restaurant, and we welcome conversations with experienced restaurateurs interested in investing in a café in this beautiful location. When the first stage of the development is complete there will be public access to the beach. We will continue to progress with the proposed marina, as it offers additional public facilities such as a boat ramp and an improved, more usable beach. Our experience in providing quality marine environments with multipurpose use is evident in our Waterways developments. The water quality at Hobbs Bay will be as good as we have provided at our other marina developments, excellently maintained, and designed for swimming and the enjoyment of property owners and the public.
Gifts for FATHERS
Hibiscus Matters is offering readers a chance to win a basket of goodies designed with Dad in mind. The prizes are supplied by local businesses. To enter our Father’s Day Giveaway competition, send us your favourite photo of your father (or father figure) and say briefly who you (and your dad) are, and why this is your favourite image. It can be any meaningful image – including a fun one! Images (medium to highresolution jpg files) can be emailed to sellit@localmatters.co.nz, or copies of photos (no originals) can be posted or dropped into our office at 21 Florence Avenue, Ōrewa. Entries close on Thursday, August 29, at 5pm and must include an email and phone number. The winner/s will be selected on Friday, August 30, contacted by phone and announced on our Facebook page. The winner’s photo will also be in Hibiscus Matters’ September 9 edition. Sponsors to date include: Longevity Wellness Centre, Gatmans, Manly Village Barber, Marrow butchery and more.
Viewpoint
John Watson, Hibiscus & Bays Councillor john.watson@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Public assets prioritised
I hope everyone is getting by okay with all the winter ailments doing the rounds and people have had time to enjoy the Olympics. There’s been some wonderful performances and displays of personal humility and sportsmanship in Paris, the same city that 100 years ago witnessed the extraordinary feats of Scotsman Eric Liddell of Chariots of Fire fame.
Winter’s certainly not proving much of a handbrake for Penlink with works flying ahead at real pace, the 2026 completion date looming up fast. And, on Penlink we’ve written to the Minister’s current ‘review’ of the decision to toll the project (HM July 29). This is to remind him Ministry of Transport officials themselves stated NZTA’s business case, the way it undertook consultation and the lack of public support meant the toll proposal failed three of the four statutory tests and overall,“… the evidence provided to support tolling Penlink is weak.” Ultimately it will be the Minister who makes the call.
Recently there was some significant funding for parks and reserves around the Hibiscus Coast, including $11.9m for Ōrewa beach and $9.4m for Metro Park West. It was also good to see the council chief executive making a clear statement on the status of the Gulf Harbour Golf Course covenant. Pleasing too for our ferry commuters, the news that a full service will resume from September 9. Not quite so impressive are ongoing attempts to sell major assets and privatise what remains
Since it was first held in 2017, the Arkles Bay Midwinter Splash has become a community favourite, as well as being a great fundraiser for hospice. Participants dress up in all kinds of colourful costumes and dive into the sea for a quick swim. This year’s event, held on Sunday, July 28, set two new records – for the numbers taking part, and the sum raised. Organiser Greg Holland says around 130 people got ‘in the swim’, enjoying the “almost summerlike” fine day. “It was a festival of colour with some seriously colourful costumes, and all ages represented from school age to those well into retirement,” Greg says. “As the organiser it is brilliant to see the community get in behind the event, and have so much fun for such a great cause.” As the paper went to print, the sum raised was just over $3000. Photo, Greg Holland
of council operations – the latest example an attempt to privatise the management of council leisure centres and pools. Fortunately councillors rejected this proposal and wellrun centres like Stanmore Bay will continue under council management and control.
This sort of behaviour, reflected in previous moves to privatise Ports of Auckland and sell the airport shares, brings to mind the comments of Professor of Public Policy Ian Shirley. At the very start of the Super City he predicted local government in Auckland would be replaced with “… a corporate structure where the major beneficiaries will be the exclusive brethren of big business, merchant bankers and a narrow range of consultants dominated by legal and accountancy firms”.
His prediction was shown to be uncannily correct when in 2021 a Weekend Herald investigation revealed the Super City had become a $10 billion gold mine for multinational corporations and big local companies. The model of contracting out most of the work of Auckland Council had fed $10b of ratepayers’ money to just 20 companies since the Super City’s inception in 2010.
For our part, we remain committed to preserving and enhancing the valuable public assets on the Coast, all of which have been painstakingly built up by successive councils over many decades. The main goal now, as back then, simply to ensure our community continues to evolve as a better place to live for all.
Dear diary, I’m thriving in my new home, just like the strawberries
Love life on your terms.
At Summerset Milldale there are fewer chores and more choice. So if you’re done with gardening, you can hang up your gloves. But if you’re a big fan of getting amongst the flowerbeds, there’s a community of green-thumbs just waiting to meet you.
Come and take a look for yourself at our upcoming Open Day. Plus, for a limited time, you could also treat yourself with $20,000 cash back. Simply sign a sales application for a selected home between 01 July 2024 and 30 September 2024, and then settle by 6 December 2024.*
Love the life you choose.
Open Day
Wednesday 21 August, 10am - 2pm
Summerset Milldale
50 Waiwai Drive, Milldale
Sales suite entrance on Te Taruna Drive 09 304 1632 | milldale.sales@summerset.co.nz
St John bestows high honour on local stalwart
Ōrewa resident Barbara Everiss had the mantle of the Order of St John, Commander placed around her shoulders at a special ceremony on July 20.
The St John honours are an independent part of the NZ honours system and are conferred annually. They are sanctioned by King Charles.
Barbara says the investiture, at St Mary’s Cathedral in Hamilton, was a great honour, not only for her but for St John on the Hibiscus Coast, which she has served for 54 years.
In that time, she has had many roles, including youth divisional manager, volunteer ambulance officer and area committee chair and treasurer, positions
she holds today. She was instrumental in the establishment of the first ambulance station at Silverdale and helped fundraise for the unit’s first ambulance.
Barbara’s family’s commitment to the service spans four generations, with her youngest granddaughter, Chloe, joining the Hibiscus Coast youth division as cadet this year.
Silverdale gets donated ambulance
Her mother, Margaret Christie, served for around 30 years and was admitted to the Order as a Member in 2000. Son Andrew Everiss has served for more than 20 years and was invested as a Member in 2020. He was able to place the mantle on Barbara’s shoulders at the investiture, which was performed by Governor General Dame Cindy Kiro.
A new ambulance is serving the Hibiscus Coast and Rodney communities after a generous gift by a Rodney family. On July 9, the Hato Hone St John Hibiscus Coast area committee held a ceremony to dedicate the state-of-the-art ambulance donated to the community by Shelley and Andrew Springford. Hato Hone St John Rev. Pam Cunningham blessed the ambulance, which will be based at Silverdale. She said the couple wanted to pay it forward after their son, who suffered from acute asthma when young, had required the crew’s attendance at their Kaukapakapa farm for a number of medical emergencies. Committee chair Barbara Everiss and area operations manager Casey Stark-Allen said the ambulance was a wonderful gift and thanked Shelley and Andrew on behalf of Silverdale St John. Last year, the Silverdale and Manly ambulance crews attended 8265 incidents and transported 6365 people to a treatment facility. Anyone interested in donating an ambulance can email suzana.noth@stjohn.org.nz
Ambulance donors Andrew and Shelley Springford.
Barbara Everiss spent the morning after she received the St John honour with her mother, Margaret Christie, aged 100, at Maygrove Hospital. Margaret served with St John for around 30 years. Right, Barbara with son Andrew, who is St John Auckland area operations manager, and newest recruit, granddaughter Chloe. Photos, Stephen Barker/Barker Photography
Gulf Rise Open Day
Saturday 31 August, 10am–2pm
Gulf Rise is the epitome of premium retirement living. With a stunning coastal setting, five-star facilities and a vibrant community, it’s the perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty. With a new stage of apartments just released, it’s time to make your dream of retiring to the coast a reality.
Join us on Saturday, 31 August from 10am–2pm for our Open Day and discover five-star retirement living.
Find a village that feels like home Call Adelina on 021 835 131 adelinad@metlifecare.co.nz 89 Symes Drive, Red Beach gulfrise.co.nz
5-star facilities
Wellness Centre with swimming pool, spa, gym, beauty and hair salon
Library, lounge, billiards and activities rooms
Café, bar and covered outdoor terrace
Secure building and apartment access with basement carparks available^
New release apartments selling now
Spacious one, two and three-bedroom apartments with a range of layouts are architecturally designed with top-ofthe-line finishes. Enjoy the morning or afternoon sun on your garden patio or balcony on upper levels.
One-bedroom apartments from $625,000^
Ellis and Forde Physio
Nikki Ellis’ and Tony Forde’s professional connection began in the UK, when they qualified as physiotherapists and were working in the NHS. They have both worked extensively in the public and private healthcare sector.
They were working together at an Ōrewa physiotherapy clinic until recently, when an opportunity arose for them to break off on their own and develop a clinic to provide the quality of patient treatment and education that they felt was important.
Ellis and Forde Physio Clinic, which is located down a driveway behind Ōrewa Beach Vets in Florence Ave, includes consulting rooms and a large gym.
Tony and Nikki have a focus on muscular skeletal physiotherapy and regularly liaise with each other to determine the best care for their patients. They work closely
with local GPs, specialists/consultants and other health workers and pride themselves on providing the best quality care and rehabilitation.
“The main goal is being able to enable patients to get back to their normal lifestyle, be it work, sports or being able to walk in the beautiful coast environment,” Nikki says.
The company sponsors tournaments at Ōrewa Bowling Club and provides onsite visits for local companies if needed.
Nikki has lived on the Coast for 18 years and Tony for 14. They moved to New Zealand for the lifestyle, for themselves and their families.
Tony is a keen squash player and Nikki is a long term horse enthusiast and they both enjoy fitting those recreational interests into their busy lifestyle.
Hibiscus Kindergarten & Nursery
Historic Stanmore Bay Cottage in Brightside Road is now home to Hibiscus Kindergarten & Nursery, recently opened and welcoming its first families.
Its owners share long and varied experience in education. Sue Milnes has been a high school principal and also worked for almost a decade in Early Childcare Education (ECE) evaluation in the Education Review Office.
Her business partner, Sangeeta Karmokar, was a senior lecturer in entrepreneurship and innovation at AUT, specialising in creative technologies. When the pair met they discovered a mutual interest in ECE, and the opportunity of creating their own centre was too good to pass up.
While Sangeeta is mainly in a management and leadership role, Sue will be front and centre of Hibiscus Kindergarten & Nursery, along with five staff. She says the centre is taking full advantage
of the garden and nearby beach, offering a nature-based and child-led curriculum. There will be a strong emphasis on numeracy and literacy learned through play, enhancing the transition to school. The large interior of the cottage has been divided into spaces to interest and engage the children, including an art deck that is always open to explore, a science space, music, performance and library. The decks have been glassed in, expanding the space without losing natural light. For the youngest, three months to 15 months old, there is a dedicated nursery. Heart Foundation approved meals will be served, and the children can help grow vegetables in the garden that end up on their plates.
Sangeeta and Sue invite anyone interested in finding out more to drop in.
“Even if they are just curious about the house itself and want to see inside,” Sue says. “We welcome everyone.”
Nikki Ellis, left, and Tony Forde
Sangeeta Karmokar, left, and Sue Milnes
EACH number in our CodeCracker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. For example, today 9 represents W, so fill in W every time the figure 9 appears. You have one letter in the control grid to start you off. Enter it in the appropriate
We’re bringing a smarter approach to 70+ retirement living.
Our unique operating model is designed to protect the nest egg you’ve worked hard for. A lower deferred management fee, share of capital gains and guaranteed buy back are just some of the features packed into our offer.
We think we have something special here at Vivid Living, so come along and see for yourself.
yourself Christmas!
14 Tiromoana Drive Red Beach
CAB changes funding model
By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter and staff reporter.
Public Interest
Journalism
funded through NZ On Air.
Auckland Council has changed the way it funds Citizens Advice Bureaux (CABs) – they will now be bulk funded.
The decision was made at the July 25, Planning, Environment and Parks Committee meeting.
Previously the council allocated funds to each site based on reported operational costs.
Bulk funding will allow CABs to distribute $2 million of council funding for this financial
year themselves. The reason given was to provide flexibility, so CABs can respond to where the need is greatest for its services.
Auckland CAB chair, Sylvia Hunt, says the change is not expected to impact the dayto-day operations of the Hibiscus Coast CAB in Ōrewa.
“The new funding model gives more flexibility,” she says. “While providing fundamental funding, the aim is also to develop services that are needed by all our communities across Auckland. These services will be available to Ōrewa once they have been developed and become available.”
Councillors question RLTP priorities
By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter. Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.
Auckland’s $63 billion Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) has been endorsed by Auckland Council and approved by Auckland Transport.
The final proposal budgeted $28 billion for public transport, $17 billion for State Highway improvements, $13.3 billion for renewals and $3.1 billion for local road improvements.
At council’s Transport and Infrastructure Committee on July 25, when the council endorsed the RLTP, Transport System Strategy general manager Hamish Bunn said the priorities were realigned after public consultation, elevating state highway spending.
The report showed that based on a weighted average of support from public submissions, state highways outranked walking and cycling as well as safety. However, public transport and local roads were the top priorities.
The RLTP has budgeted $900 million for walking and cycling and $700 million for safety.
The government has also prioritised funding for state highways, and at the meeting, Cr Richard Hills said it was clear that state highways were already funded far higher than local roads, safety and cycling.
“Council’s priority is public transport infrastructure but as far as I can see, we are likely to be funded 30 percent of our public transport infrastructure but about 100 percent of state highway activity [with government funding],” Hills said.
Cr Chris Darby said state highway projects meant costs for Auckland Transport as the state highway flows into the local road network requiring intersection and other upgrades.
AT chief executive officer Dean Kimpton agreed.
“We need to ensure that the implications of [Roads of National Significance] projects are properly understood from a local road and local operating expense perspective,” Kimpton said.
Eye on the pie
Having won multiple prizes for their pies in the past, Wild Grain Bakery, Silverdale again came out tops in the annual Bakels Pie awards.
Buntha Meng and Ketaka Lao of Wild Grain brought home the Gold award in the Chicken and Vegetables category and also won a handful of other top 10 placings – their steak and gravy was highly commended, gourmet meat (Scotch fillet steak and mushroom) came in 7th, vegetarian (broccoli, carrot, green bean and potato) was 9th and potato top 10th.
Dairy Flat Bakery’s rump steak, bacon and lambrusco pie came 5th in the Gourmet Meat section and the bakery earned 9th for
Dad’s Pies of Silverdale was Highly Commended in the Commercial/ Wholesale section.
Driving Miss Daisy
Hibiscus Coast
Keep your independence and freedom with our safe, reliable companion driving service
We can drive and accompany you Medical and other appointments
ocial occasions
Take your pets to the vets
otal Mobility Scheme cards acted supplie (Vendor Number: VBD580)
Bookings essential, call D Ph: 09 428 4490 / 021 035 0431 hibiscus@drivingmissdaisy.co.nz .drivingmissdaisy.co.nz
Driving Miss Daisy Hibiscus Coast
Top, Chicken and Vegetable Gold winners Buntha Meng and Ketaka Lao of Wild Grain Bakery, centre, with, from left, MC Jeremy Corbett, Tony Marshall of NZ Bakels and presenter Trudi Nelson. Above, NZ’s top chicken and vegetable pie.
its potato top.
CELEBRATING OUR ENTREPRENEURS
Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to start your own business? Corporate is great for experience, it can also teach you to identify the opportunities. I realised my driver is the satisfaction I get when a client does well from my work.
How did you come up with the idea for your business? The experience gained from designing the selling touchpoints for a Toyota dealership and increasing the TV turnover from a new display for Noel Leeming was going to be a different gig from a branding business focusing on local SMEs with limited budgets. So I had to consider really carefully what my own Unique Selling Point was going to be. I found it, mine is helping people find their own USP.
What are you most proud of achieving since starting your business? I work on a lot of small businesses who want to look like a bigger business. I have a nice group of clients who I know will say I have been a part of their success.
What advice would you give to other people who are interested in starting their own businesses? I use brokers to find me the best mortgage and insurance. They are experts. So my advice is ‘You don’t know what you don’t know’. Ask for expert advice from the start.
What drives you to keep going during tough times or moments of doubt? Writing tips columns for local publications and working on campaigns like BE LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL helps keep me focused on a positive future. My best advice is, surround yourself with likeminded professionals by joining a local network group like The Professionals Collective or the Independent Board.
Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to start your own business?
Although being a stay-at-home Mum is like a job in itself, I also wanted to do something for myself and provide for our family in another way. For as long as I can remember, I had always had an interest in getting creative and running my own business. So, after developing an interest in Sourdough through training as a chef, opening a micro bakery at home was an opportunity to run a small business part time and work it around the family.
How did you come up with the idea for your business? Was there a gap in the market you identified? The idea of the business came about from the encouragement of friends suggesting I should start baking more loaves to sell as they wanted a healthier bread alternative and there was no local Sourdough supplier. An opportunity then came up for us to go all in on a bakery set up when my employer closed their doors. There were no small-scale bakeries (or micro bakeries as I like to call mine) in the area so we saw it as a chance to offer a new product to the area.
What are you most proud of achieving since starting your business? I am proud of myself for giving this business opportunity a go. I did not want to get a few years down the track and regret not starting. It’s been incredibly rewarding being able to provide customers a healthier alternative to supermarket bread. Sourdough is a fermented product made without the use of commercial yeast, artificial ingredients making it easier to digest and a healthier option. It’s been awesome to have so many customers all over the Coast adding a loaf (or more!) from The Dough Shed to their weekly shopping list!
What advice would you give to other people who are interested in starting their own business? If you have a great idea that you are super passionate about then just get stuck in and give it a go. Talk to people in that field or in areas of the business that you are least confident in for advice and inspiration. Trust in yourself and try to enjoy all the tough hurdles along the way as that’s all a part of the journey and will only help you grow. And as my Dad recently said to me, “whether you create a successful business or not, the experience you gain from it is what is most important as that sort of learning is invaluable”.
Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to start your own business?
I grew up in Greymouth and started cutting my own hair at 14. It became a side hustle as friends and family liked my work. At 24, I moved to Auckland for barber school, and stayed. Six years later, I’m three years into running my own business.
How did you come up the idea for your business? Did you identify a gap in the market? While working at my first barbershop, I was sketching logos and came up with The Lyons Den – a play on my name. As my client base and confidence grew, I decided to start my own business. With encouragement from clients and friends, I made it happen.
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your business? The biggest challenge was the third covid lockdown. Standing out in a place with several barbershops was also tough, but I focused on showcasing the quality of my haircuts. Word of mouth and advertising helped. The community’s support has been incredible, and while it feels like just a year, it’s been three years of continuous momentum.
What advice would you give to other people who are interested in starting their own business? Just do it. Don’t let the fear of failure stop you. You might regret not trying, more than you’ll regret failing. Block out the outside noise, rely on your supporters, and prove any doubters wrong.
What drives you to keep going during tough times? The support from those in my corner. Knowing I can seek advice and seeing others who have faced greater challenges motivates me. Listening to my clients share their stories drives me to provide, and receive, support.
Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to start your business? I have always been passionate about fabric and textiles. Inspired by my family’s support and the desire to provide a better future for my wife and children, I started Platinum Carpet Care. How did you come up with the idea for your business? Was there a gap in the market you identified? The idea stemmed from my experience in the fabric and textile industry. I learned the ropes from a good friend, who is one of the best carpet cleaners and water restoration experts in the country. This inspired me to start my own business, leveraging my skills and state-of-the-art equipment to provide top-notch cleaning solutions. I saw an opportunity to make a positive contribution to the local market.
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced so far in your business? One of the biggest challenges has been building a customer base from scratch. Establishing trust and credibility in a competitive market took time and consistent effort. Managing all aspects of the business, from operations to marketing, was initially overwhelming. Balancing business demands with family life, also required careful time management.
What are you most proud of achieving since starting your business? The strong reputation we’ve built within our community. We have earned numerous loyal clients and positive reviews. I made significant personal sacrifices to start this business, investing everything I had to ensure it would succeed. Knowing that my efforts are creating a lasting legacy for my wife and our five kids is incredibly rewarding.
Where do you see your business in the next 1-3 years? Any specific goals or expansion plans? I am focusing on further training in flood restoration and advanced technical drying methods. Given that we operate in flood-prone areas, these services are essential for our community. I plan to invest in more advanced equipment and ensure I am skilled in these specialised areas. My goal is to become the go-to expert for flood restoration and drying services, providing even better support to my clients.
Anna Stephenson
Brendan Slee
Nico Lyons
How has being an entrepreneur impacted your personal life and relationships? The long hours that we work in hospitality can make it difficult to spend quality time with family and friends, leading to missed family events, holidays, and important milestones.
What are you most proud of achieving since starting your business? I’ve become an integral part of the local community, and my business has grown in ways I never anticipated. I’ve made lasting friendships with some of my regular customers, which led to memorable experiences, including a trip to Niue.
Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to start your own business? I grew up in India. When I was 14 years old, my father passed away and I had to leave school and start working to support my family while continuing my education through online studies. In 2011, I moved to NZ and started working as a waiter. When I progressed to the role of restaurant manager, I realised that if I could run a business successfully for someone else, I could do it for myself – and so I took the bold step of opening my own restaurant and bar.
What drives you to keep going during tough times or moments of doubt? Having my wife by my side, working with me, is a huge motivator during tough times. The support from our community has been incredible, especially during and after covid. Many locals stopped by with wellwishes and reassurances. The small, kind gestures and words from these wonderful people keep me going.
What advice would you give to other people who are interested in starting their own business?
First gain in-depth understanding of the industry you’re entering. For me, earning a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Enterprise enabled me to plan, open, and manage a restaurant effectively, as well as providing strategies for attracting and retaining customers. Building connections with your community can make a significant difference in your business’ success.
Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to start your own business? Alan began his journey into flooring in 1998 when he started installing carpet with a family friend who helped him into an apprenticeship. He installed carpets in Auckland and England before moving into the retail side of the business. I started with Cavalier Bremworth in 2003. Since then I have had varied roles in the industry including retail, wholesale and architectural positions. In 2015 we were offered a great opportunity to work together and grow our own business. We took the leap into business ownership and have been flooring the Hibiscus Coast ever since!
Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to start your own business? I have always aspired to be a business owner; I liked the idea of being my own boss. When leaving school, I considered getting into hospitality but instead I went to the University of Otago and studied land surveying. After finishing my study and becoming a Licensed Cadastral Surveyor I got the opportunity to buy into the company I was working for, which we later re-branded to Horizon.
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced so far in starting and running your business? As we have grown over the last five years, one of our biggest challenges has been finding staff. Our industry has a real skill shortage, and surveyors and planners are few and far between. One of our priorities has been to create a great team culture and this has enabled us to attract top talent.
What are you most proud of achieving since starting your business? I am proud of the growth we have been able to achieve. When I bought into the business, we had a small team of four and over the last five years we have steadily grown and now have a team of 15. We have also opened a second office in Mangawhai.
| 027 244 7125
What advice would you give to other young people who are interested in starting their own businesses? My advice would be to surround themselves with like-minded individuals. Look for a mentor and join a business networking group. Having people around you who are going to encourage and support you will be the key to success.
What drives you to keep going during tough times or moments of doubt? I always like to think of the big picture. This helps remind me that the tough times are only a season. The people around me are also big motivators. I want to be able to provide for my wife and kids. And I also love to see my team thrive both personally and professionally.
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced so far in starting and running your business? Covid was our biggest struggle. Flooring is very tactile, and you have to see and feel the product, so not being able to open the showroom so that customers could browse was hard. We had to find out what the customer wanted and then pick a small amount of samples for them to have.
What are you most proud of achieving since starting your business? We believe in locals supporting locals and one of our biggest achievements is the ability to support local clubs/ groups by giving back to our community. We support Red Beach and Orewa Surf Clubs, the RSA, Red Beach School, Hibiscus Dairy Flat and Harbour Hockey and Manly Park Seniors Tennis.
What advice would you give to other people who are interested in starting their own businesses? Start small and grow steadily. Work out what and where your market is and concentrate on that. Ask lots of questions from other business owners or sales reps. After-sales support is just as important as getting the sale. Word of mouth is your biggest asset.
Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to start your own business? Joe knew he wanted to use all of the skills and knowledge he had gathered over the years as both a Builder and Project Manager together with Lisa’s skills as a designer and do things a bit differently. Together, we wanted to design better homes - functional homes that looked amazing and were a pleasure to live in! We wanted the quality of the build to be higher. And we wanted the client to have a great experience.
How did you come up with the idea for your business? Was there a gap in the market you identified? We identified that house and land packages on offer were very average –stock standard homes. We wanted to build well thought-through architectural homes that made the most of the site and sun. We started off building Architectural Spec Homes that really stood out from the crowd amongst a sea of white weatherboard homes.
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced so far in starting and running your business? The biggest challenge is the market downturn, the lack of available funding for projects and lack of commitment from clients. The constant up and down nature of the property market makes it really challenging.
What advice would you give to other people who are interested in starting their own businesses? It’s tough and at times it’s brutal but you have to keep moving forward. Action is better than inaction, don’t overthink it, progress not perfection. It can be lonely running your own business, so join local networking groups and support each other.
How has being an entrepreneur impacted your personal life and relationships? Being a husband and wife team makes it really hard to separate home and work. The lines get very blurred, so making time to relax away from work is very important and we probably need to do more of this! We are also currently renovating our own home, so there is always building chat going on!
Joe & Lisa Byrne
Melissa & Alan Maher with Jackson
Joe Fletcher
Raj Chugh
Tayla Keon
CELEBRATING OUR ENTREPRENEURS
Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to start your own business? My favourite subject was geography at high school. I enjoyed social geography and how urban design, development and public infrastructure can impact social, economic and environmental outcomes. I studied a Bachelor of Science majoring in Geography and learnt about planning through an environmental law paper. I then did a Masters in Planning Practice and worked in New York. My inspiration to start my own business came down to a response to my current stage in life. My fiancé and I have two young children, and I wanted to have flexibility around when and where I worked. My family and friends are really important to me, but so is my career and the enjoyment I get from working. Starting my own consultancy was a way to balance both.
Were there any specific experiences or people who influenced your decision to become an entrepreneur. Starting out my career in New York in a Global Financial Crisis (2010) I was naïve to how the corporate world worked. I was working in hospitality while applying for planning jobs and was fortunate to meet John O’Grady who was the head of New York City Transit. He forwarded my CV onto three of his contacts. Thanks to him, I was employed in a Planning & Urban Design role within a few weeks. Fourteen years later I’m still in touch with O’Grady, a career mentor and friend. The experience of working in New York still helps in my business today. Additionally, my fiancé has always been my biggest supporter and encouraged me to start my own consultancy.
Green Thumbs
Dr Lynsey Ellis, Ōrewa Community Garden lynseymellis@gmail.com
gemma-rose@planningstudio.co.nz
745 Whangaparaoa Rd
021 131 5534
laura@reikiroom.co.nz
lauramessybynature
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced so far in starting and running your business? Learning and experiencing how the economy and change in Government impacts the private sector. Changes to National planning policies and interest rates dramatically slowed down construction for the first part of 2024, which meant pre-construction services like planning also slowed down. If you can diversify so your clients aren’t all from one sector, this helps when that sector experiences a downturn.
”Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to start your own business? I started making jewellery with crystals and precious stones, then began to sell them at local markets. I was curious about how the energy of the stones made me feel. This led me to learn Reiki in 2016, and that changed my life.
Were there any specific experiences or people who influenced your decision to become an entrepreneur? My biggest inspiration has been the people I see, and the students I teach as a Reiki Master teacher. My practice naturally evolved and, with that, one of the best communities I could ever have dreamed of.
How did you come up with the idea for your business? Was there a gap in the market you identified? I was diagnosed with ADHD late in life. I struggled at school and would doodle and draw all over my books to pass the time. A teacher held up my scribbly books and said “Messy by name, messy by nature” - my maiden is Messer. That stuck with me all my life. I never thought I would have a business, but learning Reiki healed so much. I wanted to change the narrative and make Messy by Nature a positive.
What are you most proud of achieving since starting your business? I’m so proud of my students – every class makes me so excited! This is because I know how much Reiki will help them, and more healing hands and hearts out in the world are really needed.
Where do you see your business in the next 1-3 years? Any specific goals or expansion plans? Yes so many plans! I would love to be able to offer Reiki in hospitals, care homes and work alongside mainstream health providers. Reiki is now recognised in the UK and Canada as a certified health service as there has been so much research into how beneficial it is.
What drives you? Helping people and truly making a difference in their lives.
Get ready for Spring
Spring is on its way, so it’s time to prepare gardens for a burst of colour and growth. Here are some tips to ensure your garden flourishes in the months ahead:
• Begin by giving your soil some attention. Our mild winters can lead to compacted soil, so start by loosening it with a garden fork. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure and fertility. This will create a nutrient-rich environment for your plants.
• Don’t be too eager and plant early, as we are not past the last of the cold and rain just yet. Early spring is perfect for sowing seeds of hardy annuals like calendulas, potatoes, beans, beets and sweet peas. As temperatures rise, start sowing more tender plants like courgettes, tomatoes, peppers, and marigolds. Consider planting perennials and natives to support local wildlife and reduce maintenance.
• As the weather warms, pests and weeds become more active. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests such as aphids and slugs. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or beer traps to
protect your garden. Mulching around plants helps retain moisture and suppresses weed growth.
• With the recent heavy rains, consistency in watering can be a challenge. There will be areas that are sodden and some, maybe under eaves, that remain in need of water. Early morning watering is best, reducing evaporation and allowing plants to absorb moisture before the heat of the day. You may want to install a drip irrigation system for efficient and even water distribution with less work.
• We are coming to the end of the tree pruning season but there is still time to trim any dead or damaged branches from shrubs and trees to encourage new growth. Apply an organic fertiliser to give plants a boost as they start their spring growth. You can make your own with seaweed and comfrey tea. Regular feeding throughout the season will help maintain plant vibrance and health. With these preparations, your garden will be ready to burst into life, providing a vibrant and welcoming space to enjoy in the spring months to come!
Daffy Day fundraiser on its way
This month sees schools, businesses and individuals around NZ fundraising for Daffodil Day to support the Cancer Society’s work and raise awareness. The official Daffodil Day, where you can buy a daffodil in return for a donation, is on Friday, August 30 but the fundraising goes on for the entire month. You can also buy fresh daffodils for yourself or as a gift. Info and to get involved, visit https://daffodilday.org.nz/fundraise
Gemma-Rose Brooke
Belinda Scott, Jaye Corvidae and Stephen Poro Brown from the Hibiscus Garden Collective mulching
The unstoppable Coastie
Lola Pirie of Whangaparāoa is among the first participants in the inaugural Unstoppable Academy, a mentorship programme that aims to empower young girls to unlock their creativity and inspire them to challenge traditional stereotypes of women’s success.
Chosen for her passion and positivity, twelve-year-old Lola challenges mental health and bullying head-on by creating ‘Wonder stones’, positively painted stones used to spread messages of hope and inclusion in her community.
The programme brought Lola to downtown Auckland for two days of workshops, led by social entrepreneur Alexia Hilbertidou , who at the age of 16 founded GirlBoss NZ. At the end of the programme, Lola was asked what impact she wanted to have when she grows up, and replied that she wants to remind girls they are unstoppable – and that nothing is impossible.
Lola’s participation comes at a time when new research from the LEGO Group has
found that three out of five girls aged 5-12 feel the pressure of perfection and worry about judgement on their creative ideas. Seventy-one percent of Kiwi parents surveyed said girls were more likely to hold back developing their ideas because of those pressures, and 68 percent agreed that society takes males in creative industries more seriously than their female counterparts.
Girls are seven times more likely to hear those around them call them “sweet”, “pretty”, “cute” and “beautiful”, while terms like “brave”, “cool”, “genius” and “innovative” are twice as likely to be attributed exclusively to boys.
GirlBoss NZ runs workshops at secondary schools to encourage young girls to work in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields. Since its inception in 2016, it has grown to 17,500 members, and implemented programmes in more than 100 schools across New Zealand, Australia and the Cook Islands.
The value of a dollar when learning maths
Maths is all around us and love it or hate it, we can’t escape it. The key is teaching your child the importance of maths and its relevance to everyday life.
We are constantly using maths, even though we often don’t realise it. From shopping to telling the time, things we do every day use mathematical knowledge. The way maths was taught to previous generations has changed, with the rise of technology having a significant impact. Watches and calendars have been replaced with phones, so opportunities to learn to read an analogue clock or see the days, weeks, months on display are limited. The ease and convenience of Eftpos and online banking has
seen cash disappear from our wallets, which has had a detrimental effect on students learning and understanding decimals.
Gone are the days of having piles of coins, as a way of physically seeing our decimal system in action. Learning about the different values of the coins and notes and how you could exchange a certain number of coins for a higher value note, was a fantastic opportunity for learning – one that has now largely disappeared. Working out how much change should be given or received when paying with cash is now a difficult task for students. They need the physical connection, and seeing it in action, to solidify their understanding
This also helps them with learning and converting between fractions and percentages.
Understanding decimal currency, and its value, is a lost opportunity that needs to be taught, seen and used for it to make a difference.
When we are not using the resources that connect us with the relevance and importance of maths, many students struggle to relate or see value in this core subject.
We must talk with our children, play games with them that include cash, and show them that maths is fun. Look for those learning opportunities and help build the connection with maths in our everyday lives.
Isla Stewart busy learning by handling cash.
Lola Pirie with Alexia Hilbertidou of GirlBoss NZ
by Olivia Stewart, NumberWorks’nWords Silverdale of decimals.
“Lovely kind teachers who really take the time to help your kids settle in and feel comfortable Lovely facilities too ” - Hannah Forde
“Fantastic teachers really caring ” -Amelia Mowat
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 The teachers are kind, gentle and really care for the children You could tell that they really put in a lot of effort in creating a fun, safe and creative atmosphere with the activities/crafts “The care and nurturing and engagement of the teachers with the children is fantastic ” - Jonelle Cooper
“ The teachers are beautiful people, truly passionate about what they do ” - Emma Miller
it’s all about the kind, loving, gentle, TEACHERS.
Kinetics Whangaparaoa is relocating to 2/719 Whangaparaoa Road!! Phone number will remain the same: 09 424 5632 To book an appointment: Ph 424 5632 Now at ‘Kinetics Corner’ 2/719 Whangaparaoa Rd Stanmore Bay
“Godly teachers who are full of God s love to teach love and guide children - Amber Zhang
Health
David Cooper, physiotherapist david@kineticsrehab.co.nz
Telehealth teaching
In the year 2019 BC (Before Covid), society was trundling along, generally business as usual. Then suddenly, we had a lurching shift demanding that everything we once knew now had to be done remotely. Our businesses went online, schooling went into Google class mode, and we attended meetings via Zoom in a business shirt with pyjamas and slippers hidden out of camera view. These Zoom meetings were frequently interrupted by children’s tantrums, a flatmate asking who drank the last of the milk, or a spouse crawling behind the screen to retrieve something.
two years when Telehealth was our modus operandi, this became even more important as hands-on care wasn’t possible. That education process then extended into advice about which exercises would be needed to aid recovery. How often should they be done? What would be expected if the exercise is tolerated well, or not? How do you know if things are improving? What should you do if symptoms start to get worse?
“All
In healthcare we suddenly had to shift to Telehealth, typically done over a secure video-based platform. During this time, I began to appreciate a core role for all healthcare professionals – that of educating patients about their condition, what it takes to get better and so on. We have always done this as health professionals, but because it lacked the hands-on element, Telehealth brought education into focus.
Health professionals start by asking questions about how the injury occurred, a description of symptoms, and how different movements or activities affected them. This detailed period of questioning is followed by a series of tests, essentially attempting to provoke symptoms. In short, this is the diagnostic process.
Time is then spent explaining the diagnosis, the patterns, healing timelines, the consequences of the injury on the person’s daily life, and much more. Over those
Education was, is, and will always remain, one of the core tenets of healthcare – that’s because knowledge is empowering. In general, people find uncertainty difficult to tolerate, and this was very noticeable during lockdowns. Between three and four weeks of isolation, every client we met over Telehealth regressed and I’m convinced this was humanity’s uncertainty threshold being met, manifested in a worsening of their injury. That aside, healthcare professionals have a responsibility to convey knowledge in a meaningful way. There is an art to distilling a complex, medical diagnosis into simple language that even a young child can understand. This magic power is a necessity for educators across all sectors. One of my most memorable high school teachers was able to do just that, and my results shone. In comparison, one of my less effective teachers struggled to understand how I didn’t “get it”, despite being very intelligent himself. To be an effective educator, intellect is not all that is required. What is most important is the ability to connect with people. That is where the magic happens.
for All’ Feature
Montessori Education for 6-12 year olds 293 Wainui Road, Silverdale www.merakimontessori.co.nz
Ph: 09 554 1583
admin@merakimontessori.co.nz
Meraki Montessori
Youth Voice
Caitlin Watson caitewatson@gmail.com
The power to encourage
Can you remember a moment where you received a few encouraging words that gave a boost to your spirit and a bounce in your step? I can recall a few, just this past week in fact: a stranger randomly shared a few unexpected kind words that totally changed my mood and increased my confidence. Micro moments where a word of encouragement is shared, may seem small, but in reality, they can make a day and even culminate to change a life. It is a small investment that reaps a great return. Encourage means to inspire with courage, spirit, or hope. As a boss, friend, parent or teacher, the ability to encourage is an essential part of nurturing and influencing young people. To call people to action, to celebrate strengths and paint visions of what lies beyond the horizon. As a community, we have the great responsibility to ensure our young people are seen, known and loved through our words.
In a school environment, for instance, encouragement plays a pivotal role for students’ development. I think many people could reflect back on the teachers who have been the greatest encouragers in their life. The feedback and praise from teachers can influence academic performance but also nurture a growth mindset. Students who feel encouraged are more likely to embrace challenges, develop resilience in the hard times, and ultimately achieve their goals. Similarly, in a working world, encouragement builds a culture of
Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.
Mother Theresa.
innovation and collaboration. I have heard countless stories of young people feeling empowered or alternatively, disempowered by their managers’ words. Positive encouragement creates an environment where individuals feel valued, empowered to contribute ideas, take risks, and work as a team. Leaders who foster such a culture not only boost confidence but also cultivate workplaces where people thrive. And of course, encouragement plays a crucial role in our personal relationships and mental well-being. Thoughtfully chosen words can bring joy, provide comfort during difficult times, or ignite passion. In families and friends, we all have the wonderful opportunity to be each other’s champions and cheerleaders. Whether it be walking down the street and complimenting a stranger, sending a spontaneous uplifting message to a friend or affirming an employee, what words can we use today to encourage someone in our community?
As Mother Theresa so wisely said, being generous with our words can have immeasurable and enduring effects.
STUDY BUDDY AFTER SCHOOL TUTORING
Study Buddy is a great option, where older students help younger students with exam prep or specific subjects These one-on-one sessions are popular and especially helpful for college students preparing for NCEA exams
Tutoring with a student tutor (Study Buddy) on a wide range of subjects
Years 3 - 13 1 hour sessions: $50 - $75
Monday - Thursdays: 3 30 - 4 30pm, 4 30 - 5 30pm and 5 30 - 6 30pm
Premier winner: Priyanka Ray Ceramic winner: Amanda Morton
Best Bakes
Mechan van der Westhuizen
theflourqueennz@gmail.com
Peanut butter cheesecake bites
One of my daughters was recently diagnosed with diabetes type1, and soon after a biopsy confirmed that she is coeliac as well. With my love and passion for baking I had no other choice but to start learning about this and experimenting with sugary treats that she is able to enjoy, and that won’t affect her health. These little bites are the perfect treat for a person with diabetes, or someone following a low carb/gluten free diet. They provide only 4g of carbs per serving.
Yields: 15
Crust
6 Tbsp butter (melted)
½ cup almond flour
½ cup coconut flour
1 Tbsp Whole Earth sugar replacement
Cheesecake filling
4 2 r o ta t i n g ta p s o &
250g cream cheese (room temperature)
1/3 cup Whole Earth sugar replacement
½ cup peanut butter
1 Tbsp vanilla
2 eggs
Dash of milk
Topping
½ Cup Healtheries sugar free chocolate bits
1Tbsp coconut oil
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Spray a mini cupcake tray with cooking spray. To make the crust ,combine the melted butter, almond, coconut flour and sugar replacement. Scoop the dough evenly into the mini cupcake tray, pressing down lightly with the back of the spoon. Bake the crust for 6 minutes until light brown in colour, allow to cool.
30 p m $ 30
B o o ki n g s e s s e n t i a l
Make the cheesecake filling by whisking together the cream cheese, sugar replacement, peanut butter, vanilla, eggs and milk until light and creamy, scraping down the sides if needed. Scoop the filling onto the cooled crust and bake for about 15 minutes. Let them cool while you prepare the chocolate topping.
www.thebeerspot.co.nz www.thewinespot.co.nz
Melt the coconut oil and sugar free chocolate bits in the microwave or on the stove. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the baked bites and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Th e B e e r s
C o a s t P la z a W h a n ga p a r āo a ( 0 9 ) 4
Free produce service offered
While walking her dog in Ōrewa, Kayleen Martin sees plenty of trees in gardens, laden with fruit.
At this time of year, it’s all about the citrus but she has also seen large amounts of feijoas, tomatoes and plums in season.
“I imagine there are homeowners or people in flats – senior citizens or those working long hours – who may not be able, or want to, use all their fruit,” Kayleen says. “It’s a shame to see it go to waste and I saw a need for a new service.”
Kayleen and her 18-year-old son Vincent are setting up The Pickers, a volunteer group offering to collect excess fruit, vegetables or flowers and, where needed, pick (from ground level). The Pickers will redistribute the produce to local foodbanks, community groups and churches. Kayleen runs a boutique recruitment
agency, and realises the importance of safety when having people visit your property. She will be setting up a secure system so people who book a collection or pick, can be confident that it’s a volunteer from The Pickers who will visit.
“Initially it will be myself and Vincent, but I will be very careful about who else volunteers for us,” Kayleen says. It’s early days, so at this stage The Pickers are looking for interest from people with excess fruit, vegetables or flowers that they would like to give away.
She says it might also be a good service for landlords, to help keep their property tidy and the trees healthy.
Info: www.ripple.net.nz/the-pickers, phone Kayleen 027 647 5000, or email kayleen@ ripple.net.nz
www.thebeerspot.co.nz www.thewinespot.co.nz
Vincent Martin, and his mum Kayleen, are offering to collect and redistribute homegrown fruit locally.
Glow show coming to Ōrewa
Plans are moving forward for an Ōrewa glow-in-the-dark experience, with a pilot that provides a sneak peak of the concept to open to the public next month.
Recently the Living Theatre Charitable Trust was granted $1000 by the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board towards the cost of the GLŌrewa pilot.
The Glow Show Company creative producer, Sarah Burren, says the Living Theatre Trust and Glow Show concept is, eventually, to create a tactile, interactive, inclusive and highly visual experience that is “like being inside a glow in the dark
cloth book”.
The project has been years in the making, Sarah says, and, when complete, will be a pop up that starts in Ōrewa and could tour to other locations.
She says the free pilot showcase, to be held at 12 Florence Ave, September 5-7, will be a small sample of what GLŌrewa is all about and a chance to gather feedback and interest from the public. It will be open from 11am-2pm daily.
The full pop up opening will be held at the same venue from November until March, with more details to come.
Is your school a SunSmart School?
As you may know Skin Cancer is caused by radiation damage to the DNA in our skin cells from the Sun. Most skin cancers occur over the age of fifty but the vast amount of sun damage occurs before this including in our childhood and teenage years. The accumulation of sun damage eventually overwhelms the repair mechanisms of the cell, which is why skin cancers come about later, but the importance of sun protection when young to prevent skin cancer at an old age cannot be overstated.
One large area to consider your child’s sun protection is at School- how clued up is your school to sun protection? How committed are they to it in your child?
At the very minimum all schools should have a policy on sun protection. It should be found on their website (if not you can ask them in the school office). It should detail all the steps the school takes to protect against the sun’s harm. These steps should include information on shade availability, when, what and how hats are to be worn and sunscreen access and availability, just to name a few areas.
However, having a policy is one thing but enforcing it is another.
One good marker of how committed your school is to sun protection is considering the teachers- are they good role models? Are they protecting themselves and knowledgeable about how to do so.
Another good marker is if your school is a SunSmart school.
SunSmart is a charity linked to the Cancer Society and is all about preventing skin cancer by promoting healthy sun related behaviours.
Schools can get a SunSmart tick of approval by applying to be reviewed and accredited. This is not an onerous activity but checks off all of the steps that most schools should be taking to help protect your child. SunSmart also helps with applying for shade sails and offering education where it is required.
A SunSmart school is one that is committed to keeping your child safe, which will make my job much easier in the future!
Dr Dave Hassan
MBChB DipPaeds DipCPU FRNZCGP ACCSCMS ACCDermoscopy
Associate SkinSafe Ōrewa
Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm | 18 Florence Ave, Ōrewa Clinic: 09 242 7546 | support@skinsafe.co.nz skinsafe.co.nz
Glowing manta rays will be part of the GLŌrewa experience.
(8)
Crossword conundrum
Lubricate (3)
Evil monster (4)
Give advice, guidance (7)
Bumpy (6)
Formerly Persia (4)
Jewellery item (8)
Has (4)
the same (6)
(10)
(7)
Early hearing aid (3-7)
Expose to danger (4)
Clever (5) 24 Unvarying (8) 26 Add to (7) 28 North African country (7) 30 Move out of (6) 31 Meadows (6) 32 Refrain (6) 35 Religious brother (5) 37 State on oath (5) 38 Decision-blocking vote (4)
40 Expires (4) 45 Discussion group (5)
46 Hygienic (8)
47 Idea (6)
48 Cancer-causing substance (10)
49 Stringed toy (2-2)
50 Young child (7)
51 Song words (6)
52 Perform exceptionally well (5)
54 Take notice of (4)
55 Trudge wearily (7)
56 Obtain by intimidation (6)
61 Cookery of the highest class (6,4)
63 Aft part (5)
67 Greek form of mandolin (8)
74 Developing unborn (6)
Bear (6)
Latin American dance (5)
Site of 69 down (4)
Long ago (4)
Fetches (4)
As well (3)
Wainui artist does it again
For the second consecutive year, Amanda Morton of Wainui took the honours in the ceramics category in this year’s Estuary Arts Centre members merit awards.
The judges said that Amanda’s creation looked at first glance like a piece of petrified wood.
“The artist has captured the fossilized
Correction
appearance perfectly with both the shape, colour and texture.”
Amanda won an annual subscription to Aotearoa Artist online magazine and a $500 gift voucher sponsored by Bot Pots.
“Art supplies are becoming increasingly more expensive, so this is a great bonus to re-supply the art studio,” she said.
The grid was incorrect in the Crossword printed in our July 29 edition. We apologise for the error. It’s clear that there are a few crossword fans out there! The correct version is in Hibiscus Matters e-edition, www.localmatters.co.nz/hibiscus-matters-back-issues/
Tiritiri Matangi
John Stewart secretary@tiritirimatangi.org.nz
Dawn as it used to be
In his journal entry for 17 January, 1770, botanist Joseph Banks wrote about the dawn chorus at Tōtaranui (Queen Charlotte sound): “This morn I was awakd by the singing of the birds ashore from whence we are distant not a quarter of a mile, the numbers of them were certainly very great who seemd to strain their throats with emulation perhaps; their voices were certainly the most melodious wild musick I have ever heard, almost imitating small bells but with the most tuneable silver sound imaginable to which maybe the distance was no small addition. On enquiring of our people I was told that they …begin to sing at about 1 or 2 in the morn and continue till sunrise, after which they are silent all day, like our nightingales.”
Sadly, it is no longer possible to have a similar experience in the Marlborough Sounds, or in much of mainland New Zealand. In the years since then, many of our native birds have been lost to various combinations of predation, habitat loss, competition from introduced species, and hunting. But thanks to the amazing efforts of a host of individuals and organisations there are now a few sites around the country, including Tiritiri Matangi, where habitats have been restored and native birds reintroduced. This gives us an opportunity to have an experience something like that of Joseph Banks. And, while every day is different, on a spring morning some birds like tūī will be singing melodiously when it’s still quite dark, often accompanied by toutouwai/
robins, korimako/bellbirds and European blackbirds. They may be joined by the far from melodious raucous calls of takahē.
If you’ve not yet been fortunate enough to experience a dawn chorus there will be a chance to
As dawn breaks you can expect to hear the chattering morning calls of tīeke/ saddlebacks. As they awake members of a pair call to each other and to let their neighbours know they are still there, holding their territory, and that others should keep away. They will shortly be joined by the beautiful, organ-like notes and the short ‘took’ contact calls of kōkako. Small, noisy flocks of pōpokatea/ whiteheads may pass by, and you may hear the rapid chattering flight-calls of kākāriki/ red-crowned parakeets.
If you’ve not yet been fortunate enough to experience a dawn chorus of our native species there will be a chance to do so if you join our once-a-year Dawn Chorus trip to Tiritiri Matangi. The next one will be on Saturday, September 28, with the Explore ferry departing Auckland at 4am and calling at Gulf Harbour at 4.55am before arriving at the island at 5.20am. The return ferry leaves the Island at 10am. For booking details check out the Events page on the Tiritiri Matangi website.
8:14am3.3 2:13pm0.3
9:04am3.4 3:02pm0.3 9:30pm3.6 3:33am0.3 9:53am3.5 3:50pm0.3 10:19pm3.5 4:22am0.3 10:43am3.4 4:41pm0.4 11:10pm3.5 5:12am0.4 11:33am3.3 5:34pm0.6 12:02am3.3 6:04am0.5 12:27pm3.2 6:31pm0.7 12:55am3.2 6:58am0.6 1:25pm3.1 7:32pm0.9 1:52am3.0 7:56am0.7 2:28pm3.0 8:38pm1.0 2:53am2.9 9:00am0.8 3:33pm2.9 9:43pm1.0 3:56am2.8 10:05am0.9 4:36pm2.9 10:44pm1.0 4:58am2.8 11:05am0.9 5:32pm3.0 11:39pm1.0 5:56am2.8 11:59am0.8
Amanda with her awardwinning piece
HOME & MAINTENANCE
ALARMS SECURITY AND FIRE, MONITORING, CCTV, servicing & installation, all brands 027 553 3032 www.tdssecurity.co.nz
09 428 1587 txt 0210 258 3437 CARPET LAYING, CARPET RE-STRETCH, VINYL LAYING, CARPET REPAIRS Over 30 years’ experience. Contact Dexter 027 4956 436
HANDYMAN
Odd jobs, gardening, painting & water blasting. Phone Nev 021 399 226.
Classifieds
FURNITURE REMOVALS
exp Owner Operator 30 years. Single Items to Flat/House lots. Silverdale Based. Ph Gavin 0274 973 867
HYPNOTHERAPY
Lose weight. stop smoking. anxiety and depression, confidence, self esteem. Ph 021 635 966 www.hypnotherapy2succeed.co.nz
MAKE IT TO A HAIR SALON? No problem I can come to you. Qualified Hairstylist providing cutting and blow wave services. Please phone Julie 021 112 8015 HOUSE WASHING - SOFT WASH / LOW PRESSURE / CHEMICAL WASH
Also Window Cleaning / Gutter Clearing / Decks / Concrete. Careful service, reasonable rates. qualitywash.co.nz / 021 0579743
PUMP & FILTER SERVICES. New installs for all your water pump requirements. Ph 0274 430 654.
ARKLES BAY PAINTERS/DECORATORS In the area for the area. Shane 021 0813 8481.
CARPET ADVICE, FREE QUOTE FOR STEAM CLEANS, Carpet Repairs, 35 years experience Dwayne 027 499 7929.
ELECTRICAL WORK Installation/upgrade of switch boards, down lights, power points, ceiling fans, ovens and hobs. Spa power, EV charger power. All small jobs welcome. Ronnic Electrical Ltd 021 752 430
PEST CONTROL Eradication of rats & mice. Competitive Rates. Ph 426 2253 Ph 027 286 7321, www.noratsandmice.nz
VIDEOS TRANSFERRED to DVD/hard drive. Ph/txt Te Totara Video 021 777 385.
REPAIR Service for F&P smartdrive washers, F&P/Simpson dryers. Prompt service ph 021 168 7349.
Crossword solution #38
ACROSS: 1 Jump to conclusions, 10 Paranoia, 15 Barrel, 16 Route march, 17 Criminal, 19 Players, 21 Usher, 22 Ill at ease, 25 Facsimile, 27 Paucity, 29 Theory, 33 Gauge, 34 Trifling, 36 Authorises, 39 End, 41 Watered, 42 Miller, 43 Impure, 44 Cave, 45 Festoon, 48 Crystal set, 53 Shutter, 57 Rind, 58 Sturdy, 59 Direct, 60 Penalty, 62 Old, 64 Metropolis, 65 Locality, 66 Spurn, 69 Parody, 70 Sojourn, 71 Character, 76 Influenza, 77 Amend, 78 Fortune, 83 Landlord, 84 Vulnerable, 85 Tongue, 86 Adequate, 87 Ride roughshod over. DOWN: 2 Unable, 3 Party, 4 Oil, 5 Ogre, 6 Counsel, 7 Uneven, 8 Iran, 9 Necklace, 11 Agreed, 12 Atmosphere, 13 Owns, 14 Allergy, 18 Eartrumpet, 20 Risk, 23 Smart, 24 Constant, 26 Augment, 28 Algeria, 30 Vacate, 31 Fields, 32 Chorus, 35 Friar, 37 Swear, 38 Veto, 40 Dies, 45 Forum, 46 Sanitary, 47 Notion, 48 Carcinogen, 49 Yo-yo, 50 Toddler, 51 Lyrics, 52 Excel, 54 Heed, 55 Traipse, 56 Extort, 61 Cordon bleu, 63 Stern, 67 Bouzouki, 68 Echo, 69 Patella, 72 Handbag, 73 Claret, 74 Embryo, 75 Endure, 79 Tango, 80 Knee, 81 Once, 82 Gets, 85 Too.
AND
ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED AGM the 2024 AGM will be held in the clubrooms Sunday September 15, 10am. The club will open at 9am. Nomination forms for President, Vice President and Committee members Motion/Remit forms are available at Reception and must be in the hands of the Secretary/Manager by 4pm August 30.
CHAD’S ANGLICAN CHURCH AGM, Thurs August 15, 7pm. 117 Centreway Rd, Ōrewa. Guest speakers. All welcome. Ph 027 200 3413 rns.coordinator1@gmail.co
HIBISCUS COAST 500 CARDS Meet Mondays 6.30pm-9pm. Entry fee $7. Beginners welcome. Contact Peter, ph 021 704 440, email strudwickp@xtra.co.nz
60’s UP MOVEMENT, HIBISCUS COASTMeetings are held 3rd Wednesday of every month, 10am at the RSA in Vipond Road, Whangaparāoa. Outings 1st Wednesday of month. Ph Gloria 027 386 2339
COFFEE MORNINGS in Gulf Harbour, every Tuesday during winter. Informal and open to everyone, come along for some light relief talking travel, technical, health, homecraft and just about anything. 10.30am-12pm, Gulf Harbour Yacht Club, More info phone Mike 027 338 8248.
APPLIANCE REPAIRS
17 Hibiscus Coast Genealogy Open Day, Whangaparāoa Library. Runs all day. Free event. Part of Family History Month.
17 Dave Ewart Jnr, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 7pm-10.30pm. $5 members, $10 non-members – door sales only.
17 & 18 Hibiscus Coast Quilters Show, Ōrewa Community Centre, Ōrewa, 10am-4pm both days. Entry $5, under 13 free. Quilt and bag raffles. Café on site.
18 Death Café, Whangaparāoa Library, 10.30am. Conversations about grief, death and dying over cake and coffee. Free event.
19 Heal Yourself with Māori Medicine, Whangaparāoa Library, 11am.Discover Māori healing wisdom with Kendra Barr.
20 How You Can Recycle Right, Whangaparāoa Library, 11am. Brush up on your recycling knowledge as new national standards come into effect. Free event.
23 Talk by local author Pat Backley, Silverdale Pioneer Village, 15 Wainui Road, Silverdale, 11am. Tea/coffee in the Parsonage at 10.30 before Pat’s talk in the chapel. She will talk about her life and books. All welcome. Entry by donation.
23 Stetson Club with The Chet O’Connell Band, Dairy Flat Hall, 4 Postman Rd, Dairy Flat, 7.30pm -11pm. Members $10, non-members $12.50. Licensed cash bar. Bring your own nibbles. All welcome
24 Community planting day, Okoromai-Clansman Reserve, Army Bay, 10am-1pm. Hosted by Restore Hibiscus and Bays. Help restore a Significant Ecological Area. All welcome. Info: https://restorehb.org.nz/planting-days24 Community planting day, Okoromai-Clansman Reserve, Army Bay, 10am-1pm. Hosted by Restore Hibiscus and Bays. Help restore a Significant Ecological Area. All welcome. Info: https://restorehb.org.nz/planting-days
24 Back to the 80’s DJ Night, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 6pm-9pm. Free entry.
25 DJ Night, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 4pm-7pm. Free entry.
25 Beekeeping workshop, 9.30-11.30, 1481 Kaipara Coast Highway. Bookings essential: https:/kaiparacoastplantcentre.com/home/online-store/productcategory/sample-product/workshop-bee-25th-august-2024/
27 Learn Basic Sign Language, Whangaparāoa Library, 1pm. An introductory NZ sign language class. Free event.
28 Chet O’Connell, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Free entry.
29 Coasties Quiz Night and Music, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 5.30pm-7pm. Free entry.
30 Hibiscus Coast Grey Power Meeting, St John’s Catholic Church Hall Ōrewa, 1.30pm. Presentation by University of the Third Age (U3A), a society for seniors who want to keep learning. Afternoon tea and fellowship. Info: Simonne 027 212 8322.
31 Always Elvis with Mike Cole, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 7pm-10.30pm. $5 members, $10 non-members – door sales only.
SEPTEMBER 24
1 Father’s Day at Silverdale Pioneer Village, 15 Wainui Road, Silverdale, 10am3pm. Bring dad to explore the Silverdale Pioneer Village and Museum. Enjoy coffee in the Old Parsonage before exploring historic houses including the Old Forge Blacksmith Shop and pioneer tools.
1 Father’s Day with DJ Going Bananas, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Rd, Stanmore Bay, 4pm-7pm. Free entry, buffet cost to be confirmed.
3 Joy in Every Season, Whangaparāoa Library, 11am. Sort your home space using Marie Kondo’s KonMari method with Celine Sumic. Free event.
4 Mark Taipari, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Free entry.
5-7 GLŌrewa free pilot showcase, 12 Florence Ave, Ōrewa, 11am-2pm daily. (see story p21)
6 & 7 Hibiscus Coast Orchid Show and More, Ōrewa Community Hall, Friday 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-3pm. Commercial growers of orchids plus many other plants. Free entry. Something for everyone.
Pharmacy Talk
with Tania Adams
Pharmacist at Unichem Manly
Women’s Health
A pharmacist colleague of mine once aptly described the symptoms of menopause as “The Seven Dwarves of Menopause” namely “Itchy, B___y, Sweaty, Sleepy, Bloated, Forgetful and Psycho” If you are feeling this way, you are certainly not alone!
August 12th kicks off Women’s Health Week or Te Wiki Hauora Wahine. Us women start our hormonal journey early, with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), where physical and emotional changes occur just before a period. By the time we reach our 40s, many will start to experience peri-menopause with symptoms that might include heavier or lighter periods, mood swings, weight gain, joint/muscle pain, night waking, flushing, migraines, and other hormonal changes*. This can last up to 10 years before finally reaching menopause at the average age of 52. But everyone is different. Average is just that. There will be many who reach menopause earlier or later.
You are considered to have reached Menopause after 12 months in a row of no further periods. Menopause symptoms include many of the above symptoms but are typically hot flushes, trouble sleeping, joint pain and vaginal dryness/sexual discomfort*. The low levels of oestrogen associated with menopause can also lead to a higher incidence of urinary tract infections.
So what can you do? I always believe that an all round approach is best, as with any health issues. Constructive changes to your lifestyle can actually have a positive bearing on your perimenopause and menopausal symptoms. Reducing your coffee and alcohol intake can help. Keeping your bowel healthy and high fibre intake can help to keep some symptoms at bay and prevent further issues arising.
There are different natural health supplements available that may help with flushing, vaginal dryness, moods, joint discomfort and other peri and menopausal symptoms. Sea buckthorn, for example, may help with vaginal dryness. Our practitioner only range, Metagenics, has a researched formulation for prevention of urinary tract infections and vaginal thrush. Other Metagenics products use more traditional natural medicines which may help to manage hormonal symptoms such as flushing . Prescription medications might be worth considering and can be discussed with one of our friendly pharmacists at Unichem Manly Pharmacy.
Our Women’s Health Clinics begin 26th August which involve a 30 minute individual appointment with our trained integrated pharmacist who has the benefit of pharmacist knowledge with specialisation in natural health. Book your appointment today on 09 424 7708. And remember, you are not alone out there!
*Note that certain other health problems can exhibit similar patterns and therefore may need checking with your doctor.
Women’s Health Clinic
For individual assistance with peri-menopause or menopause, book your appointment for only $30** www.unichemmanly or call on (09) 424-7708 (**valid until 30/9/24)
Joynt’s debut for Paralympics
Milldale’s Mitch Joynt will make his Paralympics debut in Paris this month, thanks to his unwavering commitment for more than a decade.
After Joynt, 29, lost his right leg in a woodchipper accident 11 years ago, his focus shifted quickly to what he could achieve.
“As soon as I lost my leg, I had that drive to get to the Paralympics,” he says.
Joynt says it is hard to put into words what it will mean to compete in the black singlet.
“The biggest feeling will be relief. I have worked for a long time for this opportunity, so to finally be there will be amazing. When I line up in the heat, I will have achieved something that only a very select number of New Zealanders have ever done.”
Joynt heads to Paris with a huge amount of confidence.
At the Para Athletics World Championships in Kobe, Japan he earned a bronze medal in the men’s 200m T64, courtesy of an Oceania record of 23.15.
“I knew I had run well, and my time puts me in the mix for medal contention in Paris. I’d love to run sub-23 seconds.”
Joynt says he has more time to train now that he is funded by High Performance
Photo, Alisha Lovrich
Sport NZ and that the support of ACC has also been a constant, through rehabilitation and helping fund his running blades.
Joynt mentors people with an amputation in a peer support programme and says it is good to help normalise people’s recovery and show them that everything is going to be okay. His advice is that you have to go through the rehab, however hard that may be.
“On the other side there is a huge amount that you can still achieve. You can still have a great life.”
The Paralympics run from August 28 to September 8.
Last week Olympian Barbara Kendall, of Stanmore Bay, had her stella career, which includes three Olympic medals over five Olympic Games and tireless advocacy for windsurfing and sportspeople, acknowledged with a lifetime honour by the World Olympians Association. The honour is bestowed upon five Olympians at each games. Speaking from Paris last week, Kendall told Hibiscus Matters that she feels blessed to have had the opportunity over many years to make a difference and advocate for athletes.
“Sport is an incredible platform to make the world a better place,” she says.
“Being here in Paris has reminded me why sport is so important in this world.”
Connor falls short in maiden Olympics – by 1.18 metres
Waitoki discus thrower Connor Bell narrowly missed out on qualifying for the final at the Olympic Games in Paris last week.
Connor, who featured on the front page of our May 6 issue, threw 62.88m, tying with Alex Rose of Samoa.
Alex’s second best throw, however, bested Connor’s by a mere 1.18 metres – 60.94m to 59.76m – so Connor fell away.
“It’s tough to miss out on the final by such a fine margin, especially when I felt I was capable of a better throw!” Connor said afterwards. “I’m still incredibly proud to have my first Olympics under my belt.”
See earlier story: www.localmatters.co.nz/ sport/coasts-first-paris-olympian-confirmed/
from
on July 27 with the
On
she came 6th in her
and on
in
and
Power through your garden jobs
Eve Thomas, originally
Gulf Harbour, had a busy Olympic Games, which began
400m Freestyle heats, where she placed 8th.
July 30
1500m Freestyle heat
August 2 she competed
both the 800m Freestyle heat (where she placed 5th to make the final)
the women’s 4 x 200m Freestyle relay final where the team came 8th. On August 4 Eve placed 12th in the 800m Freestyle final. It was her second Olympics and she credits Coast Swim Club with igniting her love of swimming.