Mahurangi Matters_Issue 263_17 December 2014

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December 17, 2014

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Puhoi • Warkworth • Snells • Matakana • Omaha • Leigh • Pakiri • Wellsford • Port Albert • Kaiwaka • Mangawhai

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entertainment pages 19-37

Budget cuts make lean Christmas for Rodney There will be few presents under Rodney Local Board’s Christmas tree over the next decade as Rodney faces massive spending cuts.

The Board’s capital budget is likely to drop by 70 per cent by 2017, making Auckland Council austerity the Grinch that stole Christmas.

The funding cuts are predicted to hit

new projects such as playgrounds, park benches and boat ramps.

The information was released in the Board’s indicative budgets for 20162025 as part of consultation on Council’s Long Term Plan.

They show capital expenditure dropping from $8.4 million in 2015/16 to $2.4 million in 2018/19,

before stabilising around $4 million for the following seven years.

The majority of the reduction is due to the completion of big-ticket items between 2015 and 2017, including the Warkworth Showgrounds development ($4 million over two years), Huapai sportsfield upgrade ($550,000) and the Warkworth Town

Hall renovation ($450,000).

Once these projects are completed there is little new spending for the next decade.

Board chair Brenda Steele says the cuts create a bleak future for the Board.

“Don’t expect any new playgrounds or continued page 2

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December 17, 2014

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The team at Mahurangi Matters wishes our readers and advertisers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. The office in Neville Street will close at 3pm on Tuesday December 23 and will re-open at 8.30am on Monday, January 5. Any enquiries out of these hours can be submitted to: editor@localmatters.co.nz

Issue 263

General enquiries: Call 425 9068 PO Box 701, Warkworth 0941 17 Neville St, Warkworth 0941 Editor: Jannette Thompson 021 263 4423 editor@localmatters.co.nz Reporter: George Driver 425 9068 news@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Cathy Busbridge 022 029 1899 advertising@localmatters.co.nz Graphic Design: Clare Woods localmatters@xtra.co.nz Digital Editor: Cathy Aronson 425 9068 online@localmatters.co.nz

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, e f a s y a l P . … e f a s y sta s a m t s i r h y and Merr C to all No presents for Local Board park benches. There will be nothing,” Ms Steele says.

But the consultation process will be crucial in determining where the cuts are most keenly felt.

“If the community comes out strongly against cuts to things like new facilities in our parks, then we can look at reallocating the budget. But it will have to come from somewhere else.

There won’t be any other funding.”

Member Greg Sayers says the cuts mean critical projects will not be completed.

from page 1

In September, Auckland Council deferred $1.1 million of Rodney projects until the 2015/16 year, but now it is likely many of the projects won’t happen, he says.

“The Board will be unable to deliver things like seawalls and boat ramps,” Mr Sayers says.

However, member Steven Garner says the Board will still be able to maintain and develop existing infrastructure to a high standard, even if new projects are on the backburner.

For example, the budget for renovations to sportsfields and parks increases from $2.3 million to $3.6 million between 2015/16 and 2018/19.

Other projects in the budget include sport-field renewals ($2.4 million over five years) and walkways and bike trails ($1 million over four years).

The budgets are indicative and will be finalised next year following public consultation between January 23 and March.

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Briefs Araparera update The ever-shifting deadline for the Araparera Forest payout has moved again. Auckland Council Property (ACP) was expected to announce the final profit split for ratepayers and the Maori landowners last year. The latest word from ACP is that “the matter is expected to be finalised in the New Year”. In March, an Auckland Council representative said the joint venture was forecast to produce a profit of about $3.5 million, of which Council’s share would be about $2.45 million.

The money has been earmarked for rural road sealing.

Matakohe funding Auckland Transport has agreed to put a walking path along the existing bridge to address safety issues, but is vague on when a separate cycleway bridge will be built.

Matakana given “interim” bridge solution A pedestrian walkway along one side of the existing road bridge on Leigh Road, at Matakana, is being given priority by Auckland Transport, ahead of a new walking/cycling bridge.

AT acting manager of walking and cycling, Matthew Rednall, says that while the intention is for a new bridge at Matakana that will cater for cyclists as well as pedestrians, the installation of a safer pedestrian crossing over the existing bridge will provide a shortterm solution.

“Our first priority is to establish a safer pedestrian crossing at Matakana that can also be used by cyclists while we work with the community on the bigger picture,” he says.

“We had hoped this would be in place before Christmas however works restrictions during the summer period mean this is now delayed. But it will be installed in the current financial year and funded through the general works budget.”

AT had no comment on when or how the separate walkway/cycleway bridge would be funded, other than to state that “this option was yet to be finalised and an estimated budget was yet to be sourced”.

The Matakana Community Group has been frustrated by Auckland Council bureaucracy since purchasing a second-hand bridge from Remuera in 2012, which it had hoped to use to finish the last link in the communitydriven 9km Omaha/Point Wells/ Matakana pathway project.

The group estimated that the bridge could be installed for around $30,000, providing AT came to the party with modest consent fees. However, AT rejected the proposal on the grounds that the bridge did not meet building code requirements.

Crossing the river has been one of the major challenges in the walkway project with initial quotes to construct a bridge being as high as $250,000.

Meanwhile, the Matakana Coast Trail Trust has signed a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) with AT to work together to progress the cycleway.

The trust hopes to develop more than 100km of cycle and adventure trails within the Matakana region working with the Matakana Community Group and others.

Chair Allison Roe says the MOU will help bring the trail to life.

“The trust is working collaboratively with the Rodney Local Board, Council, ATEED, key stakeholders and private landowners, and we’re rapt to be adding AT to the mix to expedite this exciting project,” she says.

An immediate priority for the trail is to extend to Sandspit, Snells Beach and Warkworth.

The trail is designed to connect local communities, provide safe alternative transport options and promote healthy recreational activity in the area.

The realignment of Matakohe bridges has been included in the Regional Land Transport Plan (2015-2018) approved last week. The Matakohe bridges project is one of nine proposed

by Land Transport and will now go into a national prioritisation process led by NZTA. Northland MP Mike Sabin says he is hoping to see the bridges funded through the Regional Improvements Activity Class, which gives high priority regional projects an opportunity to be funded where they wouldn’t have previously. “This fund provides up to $90 million a year over the next four years for nonmetropolitan projects and, given the high personal risk of the Matakohe bridges, it’s my hope that this project will be a very good candidate for this particular class of new funding.”

Ti Point forest A tender for the harvest of the 14.5 hectare Ti Point pine forest, on the corner of Ti Point and Leigh Roads, will proceed early next year, according to Auckland Council Property (ACP).

It is understood that the 21-year-old forest is being removed for “safety reasons”, but the property will be retained by Council until old landfills on the site are stable. The estimated proceeds will be $150,000, which ACP says will be provided to Auckland Council to fund projects and services already prioritised in its budget.

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Mahurangi Matters

December 17, 2014

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OFF THE RECORD

We welcome your feedback but letters under 300 words are preferred. We reserve the right to abridge them as necessary. Unabridged versions can be read at localmatters.co.nz/opinion.

Letters can be sent to editor@localmatters.co.nz or PO Box 701, Warkworth

Celebrating regional tourism I believe we need to celebrate initiatives that are clearly aimed to create prosperity and strengthen our local communities. The recent launch of our new regional tourism organisation – Matakana Coast Tourism (MCT) was one of those important milestones.

It celebrated the significant long-term efforts of volunteers from tourism and business groups who, with the Rodney Local Board and ATEED, have adopted a cohesive approach to promote our region as a tourism destination.

MCT is working with member groups, Council and Government agencies to attract more domestic and international visitors, have them stay longer, spend more and come back to see us again. The outcomes being economic and social benefits to our region through committed efforts of business and community groups.

Our launch encompassed: • celebrating eight tourism and business groups formally coming together as Matakana Coast Tourism to promote the Puhoi to Pakiri Region as Matakana Coast Wine Country • refreshed Matakana Coast Wine Country branding • new 2015 Visitor Guide • upgrade of the www.

MatakanaCoast.co.nz web site

• announcing an event showcasing local tour and activity operators which was held on December 9 and was well-attended by approximately 50 guests.

The MCT launch event was a resounding success with 200-plus guests attending. We have had much positive feedback from guests, Tourism NZ, Auckland Council and ATEED. We also learnt much from the event and will refine our communications and event delivery for the coming year.

We appreciate there may be some initial confusion over Matakana Coast Tourism’s structure as an umbrella regional tourism organisation. We will be doing all possible to communicate and remove any such uncertainties with the commencement of an annual programme of activities next February.

For anyone who would like more information please contact us via email on: info@MatakanaCoastTourism.org.nz Warren Kitchin Chairman. Matakana Coast Tourism

Another super city So the Local Government Commission wants to create yet another super city for the Wellington region. Unbelievable!

What is the matter with these Commissioners? Have they got their collective heads stuck so far in the

sand that they cannot see what is happening in Auckland? Can they not see that local government cannot work unless it is truly local?

The Auckland model does not work by anybody’s measure and certainly not for us in North Rodney.

It is neither efficient, effective or appropriate for us, three of the prescribed cornerstones in the legislation for ‘good local Government’.

It is far too big to serve its ratepayers at a local level and has become politically remote from what the people it is supposed to be serving want.

Is the Commission incapable of embracing the 2012 law reforms on reorganisation?

Those reforms were put there to give the community (that is the ratepayers and residents – not the bureaucrats) the opportunity of achieving what they want for their local governance and, furthermore, it charges the Commission with working with them to achieve the ‘good local governance’ prescribed in the same Law. We, in North Rodney, after being forced into the Auckland conglomerate against our will, have undertaken the huge task of preparing and presenting to the Commission a viable alternative to being ruled from Auckland. We have shown through polling and consultation with our community that an independent Unitary council is what over 90 per cent of our community wants (the

Cutting red tape The red ribbon on the new Whangateau walking bridge was much more than just a colourful adornment. As one local explained ... “it represents the ridiculous amount of red tape that we had to go through to get this bridge reinstated!”

Things have changed So we wonder, who was it who went to the Rolling Stones concert in Auckland last month and had to stuff tissues in his ears because the music was too loud! Sometimes walking down memory lane can be more hazardous than you think.

Commission Chair himself has said it is ‘very credible’). But will the Commission even consider it? No, simply because it doesn’t fit their predetermined mindset that ‘big is best’ when clearly that is not always the case.

Well, we’ll see about that next March when we have our day in court.

Bill Townson Northern Action Group (NAG) chair

Population explosion With reference to the Probus article ‘Ugandan experience share’ (MM Dec 3), I would like to point out that the population in Uganda by 2014 is 39.3 million people. I was horrified to read 359 million ... that is a lot of people for a rather small country.

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Mahurangi Matters

eals D CHRISTMAS CLEAR OUT

Warkworth BID postponed THIS MONTHS The push to establish a business improvement district (BID) in Warkworth has been delayed until 2016 to give the Warkworth Area Business Association more time to consult with businesses.

The BID ballot was due to be held in March/April but association co-chair Rachel Callender says that didn’t allow enough time to establish what work the BID would do and what the cost would be to businesses.

“The association has been busy organising events like the Warkworth Santa Parade and next year’s trolley derby, and we were running out of time to reach the deadline,” she says.

“Poor communication was a significant factor in the two previous failed attempts to establish a BID and we didn’t want to repeat that mistake.

“There is still strong support for a BID, but it is important to get the process right.

“I think if we held the vote next year we would get the numbers – last time it only lost by a couple of votes. But we made a commitment that we would be really strong with our engagement and we don’t think we could do that justice before April.

“If we are robust in our engagement then we can say we looked at everyone’s concerns and can give it our best shot.”

BIDs are only established on July 1 each year, so July 2016 is the next opportunity.

In August, Rodney Local Board allocated $53,500 for the Warkworth BID proposal and this money has been reallocated for the new timetable.

BID partnerships team leader Gill Plume, who presented the item at this month’s Board meeting, said Warkworth was the most cautious group she had dealt with.

“They are very nervous about the future and want to move slowly and steadily. But this means it’s going to take a lot more energy than other BIDs,” she said.

She asked the Board to allocate a further $5000 to cover additional meetings and travel time for Council staff.

Member Phelan Pirrie, who was involved with the establishment of a BID on SH16, asked whether $58,500 was enough.

“I’m worried we are setting the process up to fail by under-funding it.”

Ms Plume said the budget was “about right”.

However, member Steven Garner was sure the project would require more funding in the future.

The Board agreed to provide the additional funding, but the 2015/16 funds will have to come from the Board’s Locally Driven Initiatives budget, cutting into funding for other community projects.

Cr Penny Webster questioned how the BID would fit with the recentlyestablished Matakana Coast Tourism, but asked to be briefed in private, away from the media.

Ms Plume said they were separate when it came to establishing the BID, but how they worked together in the future is up to the WABA committee.

The proof is in the pudding

In many households, part of the fun of eating Christmas pudding is finding a trinket that predicts your fortune for the coming year. For instance, finding a coin means you will become wealthy, a ring means you will get married, while a button predicts bachelorhood. The idea of hiding something in the pudding comes from the tradition in the Middle Ages of hiding a bean in a cake that was served on the Twelfth Night. Whoever found the bean became “king” for the rest of the night.

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December 17, 2014

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The museum has a range of exhibits telling the tales of the towns past.

View more photos online localmatters.co.nz

The Mangawhai Museum official opening included a kapa haka performance by Mangawhai Beach School.

Museum stalwarts Christine Bygraves and Jim Wintle.

More than 500 people poured through the doors of the Mangawhai Museum on its opening day on December 6.

Mangawhai Historical Society chair Christine Bygraves said she was thrilled with the enthusiasm and heard nothing but praise from visitors.

“We wanted it to be a community day to show how much we appreciated the enormous support the project has received locally, both in volunteer hours and fundraising,” she said. “I think a lot of people were pleasantly surprised by how much there was to see. It was a great day.”

used to the idea that the building phase is over.

The museum has appointed Emma Gray, who has a marketing and business background, as manager and she will start on January 5.

Air conditioning is seen as the next priority, as well as the development of the exhibition room.

There will be no time for the society to rest on it laurels as it prepares for the 75th anniversary of the sinking of the RMS Niagara next year, as well as the World War I commemoration.

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Christine says there has been a steady stream of visitors since the opening day and volunteers, who are staffing the reception, shop and café, are getting

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Mahurangi Matters

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

Streamlining processes … and so this is Christmas, and what have we done? Another year over. As we head into the end of 2014, I’ve been reflecting on my first year as your Local Board member … what have I achieved? What has the Board achieved?

One thing I think we can all plainly see is the very slow progress with Council projects. My experience since joining the Local Board is that the same projects appear on the agenda month after month, with little sign of progress as they wind through the convoluted process of reports, workshops, more reports, feasibility studies, business plans, yet more workshops before finally appearing at a business meeting to be signed off. It then could be another 12 months to actually deliver the project.

When I joined, we had 18 portfolios shared amongst members. A portfolio meeting would be held with staff and officers, requiring written reports and meeting notes. These meetings would set direction on projects or proposals to come before the board for a decision. The next step was to bring the project to a workshop of the whole board, and a repeat of questions and explanations.

Again – another set of reports, staff and officers’ time to attend, another set of meeting notes produced.

After giving a ‘steer’ at the workshop, the project would be presented at a public business meeting to be voted on. The speed at which projects were approved at business meetings gave the appearance of a rubber-stamping exercise and there is justified concern that decisions were being made away from public view.

When the idea of making workshops public met resistance, member Phelan Pirrie and I looked at the portfolio structure and suggested that we merge all portfolios into two committees, with decision-making capability to speed up our decision making while allowing for more transparency around how this is done. We are now migrating to this two-committee structure which will become public meetings from February next year. I am chairing the new Parks, Culture and Community Development committee, and hope this change will result in responsive and accountable decision-making to keep projects on track and allow the board to deliver some tangible results for the community in a timely manner.

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Mahurangi Matters

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Business survey finds low customer numbers a concern A recent business survey has found significant challenges for business group Wellsford Promotions and a general concern about the lack of customers.

The survey involved 115 businesses in Wellsford and 59 businesses in Snells Beach.

In Wellsford, the survey found strong interest (64 per cent) in forming a business network, but half of respondents knew little about the existing business association, Wellsford Promotions, and 47 per cent said they didn’t want to join the group.

Wellsford Promotions chair Stephanie Railey says she is not surprised by the result and is focused on turning it around.

“We know from the number of people who attend our meetings that there is a lack of understanding of what we do,” she says. “People aren’t aware of what we can offer.

“Most businesses are so busy just trying to survive, they don’t have time to attend meetings.”

A further 41 per cent had never heard of the Wellsford Promotions website, wellsford.co.nz, including 18 per cent of the organisation’s members.

However, the survey found strong business confidence, as 88 per cent believed they would still be in business in two years time and 59 per cent were confident turnover would increase over the next year.

The biggest concerns for business owners were locals shopping out of town, increasing competition, and the poor condition of roads and the town itself. The town’s location on SH1 was considered to be its biggest advantage.

The majority of the businesses in Wellsford were small –70 per cent employed less than six people and 11 per cent employed more than 10 people. But most business had a long history, with 64 per cent of businesses operating for more than 10 years.

Meanwhile, the biggest concerns for Snells Beach businesses were the centre’s isolation and lack of permanent residents.

There was strong interest in joining a business network (67 per cent) with the priorities considered to be promoting the town, organising events and networking with other businesses.

Professional services was the largest sector, at 25 per cent, followed by retail at 19 per cent. There was also a large number of home-based businesses with 40 per cent working from home, compared with 11 per cent in Wellsford.

The businesses were also small, with 38 per cent being owner-operated, while 45 per cent had five staff or less. Only 31 per cent of businesses had been operating for more than 10 years.

The surveys were undertaken during July and August with $40,000 from Rodney Local Board.

Wellsford Business profile: Retail 31 per cent, hospitality

17 per cent, professional services 13 per cent, automotive 12 per cent.

Challenges: Low customer numbers and increasing competition 37 per cent, poor roads 14 per cent, poor image of the town 14 per cent.

Advantages: Passing traffic, local farming base and supportive community.

Priorities: Encourage growth 31 per cent, promotion activities 21 per cent, keeping town clean and tidy 19 per cent.

Snells Beach Business profile: Professional services 25 per

cent, retail 19 per cent, hospitality 12 per cent, health and dental 8 per cent, accommodation 8 per cent.

Challenges: Population demographics 28 per cent, accessibility 15 per cent, overheads 11 per cent, infrastructure 11 per cent, crime 11 per cent.

Advantages: Lifestyle 36 per cent, friendly community 30 per cent, environment 23 per cent, tourism 18 per cent.

Priorities: Improve infrastructure 24 per cent, marketing/promotion 22 per cent, retail growth 18 per cent, tourism events 14 per cent.

The commercial creation of Santa Claus

Believe it or not, it is the Coca-Cola Company that is credited with creating the new image of Santa in a red coat with white beard and black boots. Though White Rock Beverages Company had already used the modern image of Santa in 1915 to advertise its mineral water, Coca-Cola made the Santa image famous with depiction a of him in its commercial in 1931. Prior to the commercial, Santa and his elves used to be illustrated in green robes.

INNOVATIVE KITCHEN DESIGNS DESIGN MANUFACTURE & INSTALL

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | ENTERTAINMENT UNITS LAUNDRIES | WARDROBES AND OFFICES Ensure an attractive, functional design that will stand the test of time by calling on the experienced cabinetmakers from Neil Taylor Cabinetmaker & Design. We can provide a costeffective makeover for existing properties or cater to new homes, with designs to suit your needs. For affordable solutions to meet your unique requirements and budget we are the name to trust in the Rodney district.

Contact Neil 09 425 7017 or 021 070 0643 neiltcabinetmaker@xtra.co.nz | www.cabinetmakeranddesign.co.nz Unit A, 16 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth

10

Mahurangi Matters

realestate

December 17, 2014

Home owners cash in on strong holiday rental market Mahurangi residents are making thousands of dollars renting out their homes over the summer months as the holiday rental market heats up in the region.

LJ Hooker salesperson MarieDominique Lennan has run local holiday home website aholidayhome. co.nz for the past four years and says it is becoming increasingly popular for locals to rent out their homes over the holidays.

“We have more houses listed than ever before, and more people renting than ever before,” Ms Lennan says.

Most of the properties are coastal and range from baches to mansions.

The clientele is also varied, with a notable number of expats renting when they come back for the holiday season. Although more people are coming to the area, the prices have remained steady.

“I think there’s a limit to what people will pay for a place.”

The website bookabach.co.nz has 390 homes listed in Rodney ranging from $2200 per night for a five-bedroom, three-storey villa on Tawharanui Peninsula, to $60 a night for a studio bach in Snells Beach. Omaha has the most properties with 100 listed.

The Kaipara District has 186 houses listed with nearly 130 of those in Mangawhai Heads alone. Prices in Mangawhai range from $795 a night for a modern beach bach on the estuary to $70 a night for a one-

bedroom bach.

Local builder Darren Reader has been renting out his home near Matakana for the past five years through rental management company Bachcare.

The family of five has a permanent caravan at Martins Bay and has their home booked out from December 20 until the end of January.

The house is about five kilometres from Matakana, with views over rolling hills out to Coromandel and Rangitoto.

During the peak season, they are getting $500 a night for their fourbedroom modern home with a sleepout.

“It works out that we almost get as much over those weeks as we would renting it out for a whole year,” Darren says.

“Initially, it was a bit of an overhaul.

We lock away our private possessions, but Bachcare take care of the rest and make it hassle free. They get the bookings and meet and vet the tenants, and make sure the place is clean and tidy when they leave. We haven’t had any problems other than a broken wine glass.

“My three daughters hated it at first, but they understand the benefits of it and we’ve got used to it. Though it can be a bit cramped in the caravan.”

Darren and his wife Ruth Perkin, a Mike Pero agent, work from the caravan throughout January and have

Darren Reader and Ruth Perkin have been renting out their family home, near Matakana, every summer for the past five years. While the house is full, they go camping.

started to take on regular weekend rentals throughout the year, at a lower rate of $350 a night.

“The caravan has got wifi and it’s still close to work, so it’s not a problem.”

Darren says he has been surprised at the level of interest and the number of rentals has been increasing recently.

“Our house is in a rural setting so I didn’t think many people would be interested, but it’s been booked out.”

Bachcare manages over 1000 homes in NZ and has had a 38 per cent increase in bookings over the last 12 months.

Local holiday manager Linda Waller says the number of weekly rentals she deals with has grown from two per weekend last November to eight per weekend this year.

“People are starting to realise that they can make their bach work for them and still enjoy it during the off-season.”

Wishing you a Merry Christmas From all the team at Bayleys in the North We hope you and your loved ones have a very happy and healthy festive season! If we can help with anything ‘real estate’ in the New Year we would love to be of service.

Our Bayleys offices in the North: Orewa Beach 09 426 5911

Whangaparaoa 09 428 0600

Warkworth 09 425 7640

Omaha Beach 09 422 7441

Mahurangi East 09 425 4128

Mangawhai 09 431 5415

Mackys Real Estate Limited, Bayleys, Licensed under the REA Act 2008

www.bayleys.co.nz

realestate

December 17, 2014

Mahurangi Matters

11

WARKWORTH WEEDBUSTERS War On Weeds

Weed of the Month Tree Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) A medium sized hardy, fast growing, evergreen tree or dense shrub <10m high that can reach 14m in foliage diameter. Dark green, glossy oval leaves, pointed tips, smooth edges. It has long bunches of strongly scented white flowers (from Nov-Mar). The berries are bluish or purplish-black. Seed is dispersed by birds, contaminated soil & dumped vegetation.

It is found in hedgerows, roadsides, wastelands, lowland and coastal forest.

Privet can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions.

Tree Privet replaces mid canopy trees (taraire, towai, pohutukawa) and totally dominates areas of forest if unhindered.

Leaves & fruit are poisonous, and the perfume contributes to hay fever and asthma. Control by cutting down & paste or drill stumps. Hand pull seedlings.

Bush Privet (Ligustrum sinense) (also known as Chinese Privet) Chinese privet is semi-deciduous in colder areas, only grows to 5m high, has dull green leaves with a rounded tip and a hairy midrib on the underside. The white tubular flowers (Oct-Mar) have distinct purple or mauve centres.

It is spread the same way as Tree Privet, is found in a wide range of places and tolerates a variety of conditions. It also displaces many native forest and marginal shrubs.

The leaves and fruit are poisonous, and the perfume also contributes to hay fever & asthma.

Use the same control methods as above.

Mahurangi Matters advertising manager Cathy Busbridge hands over the vouchers to Homebuilders family services coordinator Quentin Jukes.

Christmas spirit appreciated Residents across Mahurangi and on the Hibiscus Coast have donated more than $2000 worth of vouchers to help struggling families this Christmas.

In the north, vouchers are being distributed by Homebuilders Warkworth, Wellsford Foodbank and Otamatea Community Services.

The Buy Local Give Local Christmas voucher campaign wound up on December 10 and we would like to thank everyone who took the time to donate, as well as the stores who participated and encouraged their customers to pop a voucher in the box.

Mahurangi Matters would particularly like to thank 88.9 Times FM for

coming onboard this year and helping promote the appeal.

Vouchers were received from customers supporting the following businesses: Puhoi Cottage Tearooms Warkworth New World Sushi Gallery Warkworth Woodys Winners Wellsford Intimate Apparel Not Just Hats Jaques Four Square Kaiwaka Paper Plus Life Pharmacy Warkworth Warkworth Butchery MTA petrol vouchers Coconut Gallery Warkworth Plus, FB Warren donated watches

For more info on the Warkworth War On Weeds contact us at warkworthweeds@gmail.com or call 021 0849 3214

Borders Real Estate Warkworth ds

Adrienne and Jim Steffener Phone 09 425 5394

ZREAA

Adrienne Steffener

021 740 806 visit www.borders.net.nz

Before you list your property contact Adrienne on 021 740 806

Jim Steffener 021 939 034

Sellers pay a super low selling fee of 2% - capped at $11,000 to $700,000 - 1% on balance.

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12

Mahurangi Matters

realestate

December 17, 2014

Out and about in December...

Laurel Becroft was the winner of Warkworth Lions Community Raffle.

She was presented with her $2000 travel voucher by club vice president Peter Henderson. Second prize went to Alison Johnston, Parnell. The Warkworth Lions club appreciates the support of the community.

View more photos online localmatters.co.nz

View more photos online localmatters.co.nz

Decorated donkeys paraded through Highfield Reserve in Algies Bay for the annual Christmas party and a volunteer was honoured with a life membership of the reserve. About 200 people attended the event, which featured Santa, egg and spoon and sack races and a tug of war. Chris Burgess, from Auckland Council, presented Peter Caccia-Birch with a Life Membership Certificate, in appreciation of his 20 years dedicated leadership and hands-on work at the park.

Highfield Donkeys Inc chair Peter Couling says Peter has worked tirelessly to care for the donkeys and has worked with at risk youth from Springboard at the park every week.

There were congratulations all round when the new Whangateau walking bridge, linking Birdsall and Ashton roads, was officially opened on December 7.

The bridge and causeway mark where the main road to Leigh once ran and many among the 70 who attended the opening shared stories of fishing and swimming off the old bridge. Cr Penny Webster congratulated the community, and Hugh McKergow in particular, on their tenacity in working together and getting the project finished â&#x20AC;&#x153;in spite of the frustrations of working with Council bureaucracyâ&#x20AC;?. Among those who were first to officially cross the bridge were Johnson Birdsall and Don Ashton. Many representatives from families who have lived in the area for generations were represented on the day, which finished with afternoon tea at the Big Omaha Wharf.

realestate

December 17, 2014

Mahurangi Matters

13

Mahurangi Marine

BOAT SHOW View more photos online localmatters.co.nz

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

Fyran is proud to introduce to our fleet the brand new Fyran 550.

Custom designed for New Zealands marine The SPLASH BACK promotion is a Nationwide offer on retail sales of anytough new Honda outboard purchased from 15th May until 30th June 2014. Refer table on page 2 for SPLASH BACK amounts conditions it really is the only boat you need to try per individual unit. before you buy this summer!

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

2.3HP = $200 SPLASH BACK

30HP - 60HP = $500 SPLASH BACK

8HP - 15HP = $300 SPLASH BACK

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

In 5HP stock now. Trades considered. Finance available to approved purchasers = $100 SPLASH BACK 80HP - 150HP = $1,000 SPLASH BACK

We be closed from the December 20HP =will $400 SPLASH BACK 225HP25-28th – 250HP = $2,500 SPLASH BACK otherwise business as usual Terms & Conditions: SPLASH BACK offer applies to all new retail outboard sales from 2.3HP - 250HP . Offer applies to floor stock, consignment stock and new unit purchases. This SPLASH BACK offer overrides all other promotions ie: Units purchased between the period 15th May - 30th June do not count towards the quarterly unit rebate scheme. How does the SPLASH BACK promo work? Every outboard purchased during this period will be invoiced to Dealers at normal dealer buy excl GST LESS the SPLASH BACK amount Incl GST. Dealers discount for the customer the RRP excl GST by the SPLASH BACK amount off the outboard. Dealers need to supply Honda Marine with a copy of customer invoice to receive a Dealer SPLASH BACK rebate on sales of existing floor stock and consignment stock. Dealers must also order a replacement engine of similar HP. This replacement unit will also receive the SPLASHBACK rebate. (Not applicable to new units sales as SPLASH BACK amount will automatically be deducted). Advertising and Promotional material: Each Dealer will receive SPLASH BACK point of sale to display on showroom stock.

MAHURANGI MARINE LTD 330 Mahurangi East Rd, Snells Beach

Family and friends gathered to celebrate the festive season in song at the 14th annual Carols by Candlelight in Lucy Moore Memorial Park, Warkworth.

Warkworth Rotary member Mick Saunders says about 900 people attended. “It went extremely well and the children enjoyed themselves which is what it’s all about,” Mr Saunders says.

425 5806

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Selling with Ray White Warkworth/ Snells Beach doesn’t make cents— it saves $’s—$1,000’s of them.

Warkworth 09 425 7959 / Snells Beach 09 425 5457 / Email: warkworth.nz@raywhite.com / rwwarkworth.co.nz

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Mahurangi Matters

realestate

December 17, 2014

Rodney real estate market cools as property prices drop There are signs the real estate market is cooling in Rodney as average property values drop and the number of building consents issued levels off.

According to the latest Quotable Value figures, house values fell by 1.2 per cent in Rodney between September and November, from $691,840 to $681,194.

Only two other areas in Auckland had a decrease in prices over the period, with Hibiscus Coast prices dropping by 2 per cent and Auckland City islands decreasing 4.1 per cent.

Over the last 12 months, Rodney has had the fifth lowest increase in house prices of 15 Auckland territorial authorities, with prices increasing 7.4 per cent. Rodney has also had the lowest increase in prices since the 2007 market peak, with a 13.4 per cent rise.

However, Bayleys in the North director Mark Macky says the figures are misleading.

“There may have been fewer high value houses selling over the winter months, as coastal properties and lifestyle blocks tend to cool off over that period, but we are certainly not seeing a drop in value,” Mr Macky says.

“This month we auctioned seven properties in 24 hours and they all sold for more than we expected. I can’t think of that happening in the last five years.”

Prices in Rodney only started increasing about 20 months ago and the market is still well behind the boom in Auckland city.

“It’s like ripples in a pond. Auckland central was the epicentre of the boom four years ago. We have only just started to feel those ripples.”

The number of residential building consents issued in Rodney has also levelled off, after more than doubling between 2011 and 2013.

There were 1174 consents issued in Rodney in the year to October, compared with 1220 for the same

House prices in Rodney fell over the last three months, however Bayleys in the North director Mark Macky says demand is hotter than ever.

period last year. But this is still more than double the number issued in the period 2011 (565) and well up on 2012 (816).

Statistics NZ still uses the former Rodney District Council boundaries when reporting on building consents, so the figures include Orewa and Silverdale.

Mark says construction is being constrained by a lack of available land.

“Jade River subdivision in Warkworth has only three sections left out of 30 and Omaha is also running out of land.

“Although there are more subdivisions coming online, it’s not enough to meet demand.”

By contrast, the number of consents issued in the

Kaipara District is surging ahead.

In the year to October, 165 consents were issued, up from 126 the previous year and breaking a five-year stretch of figures remaining flat.

“Mangawhai has a lot of developed sections which people have sat on for a while and demand is picking up strongly,” Mr Macky says.

However, property values have been flat in the district, with a 1.4 per cent increase over the past 12 months to $335,000 and a 15.3 per cent decrease in prices since 2007.

“The market in areas that are more than 90 minutes from Auckland is still quite depressed which drags down the average price.”

Thank you for the huge support.

A safe and happy Christmas to you.

We are available throughout the holiday period for all your rental needs.

0800 171161 info@igniteproperty.co.nz

Julie Beaumont

‘*Fowler Homes voted NZ’s Best Nationwide Builder’

Architectural Homes | Rural Homes | Rebuilds & Renovations | Design Build Specialist

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www.fowlerhomes.co.nz

Celebrating 30 years

”

realestate

December 17, 2014

Warkworth RSA president Robbie Blair with the Roll of Honour that was once displayed in the Warkworth Town Hall. It has been in storage at the RSA for years.

Hall fundraising on target Fundraising for the Warkworth Town Hall refurbishment is picking up the pace and lost treasures are coming to light after years in storage.

Fundraising coordinator Tracey Martin says the Warkworth Town Hall Restoration Trust has about 10 per cent of the $200-250,000 it needs to raise over the next year, with the remaining $800,000 to come from grants.

The Trust applied for charitable status this month and will begin applying for funding grants in the New Year.

“Considering no-one can see any progress yet, it’s a good result,” Tracey says. “Once work begins we expect fundraising to gain momentum.

“There’s still a lot of suspicion that nothing is going to happen, but we are starting to turn a lot of people.

Many who were initially against it can now see that the refurbished hall will have a lot more facilities than before and people have missed having a large space for the community.”

Next year there will be a different fundraiser each month, including a short film festival, auction dinner and a car rally treasure hunt.

Meanwhile, historic items have been rediscovered which will eventually be displayed in the refurbished hall.

A Role of Honour, that once sat in the hall, has been stored in the Warkworth RSA basement.

The 1.8-metre high structure is inscribed with the names of all the men from Warkworth who enlisted in World War I. Each town in the area is represented in one of the eight panels, including Warkworth, Matakana, Puhoi, Leigh, Wellsford, Streamlands, WhangaripoPakiri-Tomarata and Kaipara.

Work on the Town Hall is scheduled to start towards the end of next month.

The original seating is being stored in Auckland, courtesy of Council, and the old film projectors will also be saved to be displayed when the renovations are complete.

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Mahurangi Matters

15

16

Mahurangi Matters

health&family

December 17, 2014

St John appealing for subscriptions

New Venturers, from left, Sara Jones, David Lark, Bethany Sanders, Harrison Pene, Ashleigh Munro and leader, Mark Lee.

Teenage scouts form new venturer unit Five senior members of the Warkworth Scout Group have established a new Warkworth Venturer Unit, catering for youth in years 11 to 13.

Venturers set and plan their own programme with guidance from a leader, and activities can involve camping, kayaking, rock climbing and community service as they work towards their Queen Scouts Award, the highest badge in scouting.

Unit leader Mark Lee says the programme encourages the Venturers to develop a certain level of confidence and responsibility. It often also leads to long-term friendships.

The unit’s first chairperson is Sara Jones and the treasurer is David Lark.

“We are really excited about setting up this unit,” Sara says. “After several years of being in cubs plus five years of scouting, I am proud to begin the Venturer unit.”

Sara says that the aim is to grow the unit over the next year and anyone in years 11 to 13 is welcome in the new school term to come along on a Monday night to the Scout Den, in Shoesmith Street, from 6pm.

No previous experience in scouting is required.

Info: Mark Lee on 027 711 9012.

St John is encouraging residents in Rodney and on the Hibiscus Coast to join its supporter scheme.

Warkworth St John chairman Alan Boniface says that for a small annual subscription, people can have the peace of mind of knowing that in an emergency, they will receive free ambulance attendance including transport to the nearest hospital or emergency medical clinic if required.

The annual subscription price is less than a single emergency ambulance part-charge and starts at $45 for an individual up to $75 for three people living permanently at the same address.

“Hopefully you won’t need to use our ambulance service, but there are always people who do need our help,” Mr Boniface says.

“By subscribing to our Supporter Scheme, any excess funds from your subscription will help St John buy new equipment and vehicles. It will also help provide services such as first aid at local events, the Caring Caller service for the elderly and the Friends of the Emergency Department to give comfort to patients’ families.

NZ’s ambulance service operates 24/7 and helps around 400,000 New Zealanders every year.

Government funding meets about 80 per cent of costs, leaving a multi-million dollar shortfall.

Info: 0800 ST JOHN (0800 785 646) or enquire online. at: www.stjohn.org.nz/join.

Oldest Santa school

The Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School, in Michigan, is the world’s oldest Santa School, established in 1937. Its curriculum includes proper dress and make-up, live reindeer habits and practise Santa flight lessons.

Summerset Respite Care Does a loved one need looking after while you take a break, or do they require help while recuperating from a hospital stay?

If Mum or Dad requires ongoing care while you’re taking a break, or needs somewhere to recuperate after illness or an operation, Summerset Falls is a great option.

To discuss the short term or long term care options available at Summerset, please talk to our village manager, Hyrum-Daniel Dennis on 09 425 1200. You’ll find our village at 31 Mansel Drive, Warkworth.

www.summerset.co.nz

welcome home

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We offer respite care in our modern care centre, our village manager and care team would be more than happy to take you through the options.

health&family

December 17, 2014

Send your nominations to editor@localmatters.co.nz

ARE YOU PREGNANT?

S E E CE FR VI R

with Chocolate Brown

17

SE

Sweetappreciation

Mahurangi Matters

Our ur experienced midwives will care for you from conception to 6 weeks after the birth of your baby. We work from Whangaparaoa to Maungaturoto Coast to Coast.

Congratulations to Nicky Snedden, of Warkworth, who is the recipient of a gift basket from Chocolate Brown.

Nicky was nominated by Grace Presland-White, who wrote: Nicky is a well-known, hard working local midwife who has delivered many babies in the Rodney area including two of mine.

She is someone who really does have a community spirit, working behind the scenes to make sure our local mums and bubs get the best care. Nicky is involved in helping with the local underwater hockey college team – fund raising, transportation and anything else she can do. She also invests time and her baking skills into her local church events. Nicky is someone who is committed to people and this community. She does things with excellence, going above and beyond what is expected of her and so I think she deserves to be recognised.

Sally Wilson 09 425 8127 0274 977 745

Kathy Carter-Lee 09 425 6749 021 425 115

Sue Wynyard 09 425 8912 0274 934 491

Lydia Miller 09 425 7555 027 555 1629

Nicky Snedden 09 425 8249 021 662 393

Rebecca Hay 09 425 9805 027 453 6992

Louise McLaughlin 09 422 3750 027 242 8830 Photo, left-right, Sally Wilson, Sue Wynyard, Kathy Carter-Lee, Lydia Miller, Rebecca Hay, Louise McLaughlin, and Nicky Snedden.

Contact one of the midwives or the Warkworth Birthing Centre

09 425 8201 • www.warkworthbirthcentre.co.nz

Know someone who deserves a big “thank you” for their community spirit?

Tell us and they will receive acknowledgement in Mahurangi Matters and an amazing hamper from Chocolate Brown, 6 Mill Lane, Warkworth. Send your nominations to editor@localmatters.co.nz (subject line: Sweet Appreciation) or post to: Sweet Appreciation, Mahurangi Matters, PO Box 701, Warkworth.

Kindly refrain from nominating members of your own family.

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See below for Christmas hours Matakana and Wellsford

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MATAKANA: 74 Matakana Valley Road, Matakana P: 09 422 7220 Fri Dec 19 closed • Mon Dec 22nd 8am to 12noon Wed Dec 24th 10.30 to 2.30pm • Week of Dec 29th clinic closed Business as usual from Mon Jan 5th WELLSFORD: 220 Rodney St, Wellsford P: 09 423 7449 It is business as usual at Wellsford 9am - 3pm Mon/Tues/Wed.

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18

Mahurangi Matters

health&family

December 17, 2014

BOOSTChiropractic EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE with our professional, thorough chiropractic consultation.

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MENTION THE WORD 'SUBLUXATION' & RECEIVE 20% OFF YOUR FULL INITIAL CONSULT T 09 425 9888 E reception@boostchiropractic.co.nz 16 Alnwick St, Warkworth 307 Mahurangi East Rd, Snells Beach WWW.BOOSTCHIRO.CO.NZ

Warkworth Area Medical Centre Hours Christmas / New Year 2014/15 Warkworth Medical Centre

11 Alnwick St Warkworth

(09) 425 1199 Medical Emergency Services are available everyday except Christmas Day. Telephone either medical Centre for direct connection to your clinic or after hours nurse.

Christmas Eve

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-8pm 8am-5pm

Christmas Day

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

CLOSED CLOSED

December 26

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-12.30pm CLOSED

December 27

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

CLOSED 8am-12.30pm

December 28

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

CLOSED 8am-12.30pm

December 29

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-8pm 8am-5pm

December 30

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-5pm 8am-8pm

New Years Eve

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-8pm 8am-5pm

New Years Day

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-12.30pm CLOSED

January 2

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-12.30pm CLOSED

January 3

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-12.30pm CLOSED

Warkworth Medical Centre Kowhai Surgery

8am-12.30pm CLOSED

SURGERY LTD

10 Percy St Warkworth

(09) 425 7358

Kowhai Surgery

January 4

Normal Surgery Hours resume Monday January 5th Snells Beach Medical Centre is open as usual 8am - 5pm EXCEPT on Public Holidays, Saturdays and Sundays

Homebuilders Terry Healy, Homebuilders Co-ordinator www.homebuildersfs.org

A Christmas to remember My natural inclination towards peace and goodwill is sorely tried by the November start to tinkling Christmas jingles playing in supermarkets, the early appearance of flashy and gaudy baubles, and the general build of hype aimed at one day of the year, December 25. Pressure mounts, especially on parents, to consume goods and to spend money to provide a wonderful and memorable Christmas for their children. Financial constraints can make this a time of stress and unhappiness, with several weeks of one’s life passing with little enjoyment because of the worry of Christmas. All too often the day itself passes in a blur of high expectations, excitement, disappointment, tired and “sugared-out” kids and a general feeling of relief that it’s over and we survived it another year.

The good news is that there are other ways to approach Christmas without buying in (literally) to the consumer frenzy. We want memorable occasions for our kids, and research shows that what kids remember is being involved in doing things, especially in the company of a parent, much more than in owning objects. There are so many ways of involving the kids in creating a happy and satisfying Christmas.

For those who observe the religious festival there are wonderful occasions involving song, costume and story, as well as meaningful teachings. There are carol services in churches and parks, free for all to enjoy, and which might spark interesting and educative conversations on the origins of Christmas. I still use Christmas tree decorations my daughter and I sewed from scraps of felt many years ago, and still remember the challenge and satisfaction she experienced in getting them “just right”. The Internet is a marvellous source of ideas and instructions for this sort of activity.

There are Christmas menus to sort out. Let the kids participate in choosing what to eat, in creating shopping lists and finding the most economical way of buying the ingredients. Let them choose tasks to contribute to the cooking. Even small children can manage little jobs, and they feel very proud to have had a hand in creating Christmas dinner. Ask the kids to help you decorate and set the festive table.

Birthdays are a great time for really special gifts. Make Christmas about fun, playing and sharing, and keep the gifts as a small part of the whole. Put a price limit on gifts. Involve kids in choosing, buying or better still, making, gifts, and in wrapping and decorating parcels, and in the fun of keeping joyful secrets. On the day, have time set aside for no-cost family activities indoors and out. Preplan tidy-up activities to reduce Mother-stress. Schedule some device-free hours.

Sing, laugh, play, talk. These are the things memories are made of.

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summer entertainment this

wood chopping

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December 17, 2014

Judge looks for WOW factor at exhibition Good vibes to start the year

While the old adage advises ‘never judge a book by its cover’, the same cannot be said about paintings.

At least that’s the opinion of this year’s judge of the Great Summer Art Exhibition in Snells Beach, Murray Stuart, of Whangaparaoa.

“For me, first impressions are important,” he says. “I’m looking for a painting that has the WOW factor. I want to be surprised by the skill of the artist in portraying his subject.”

Murray is a professional artist, whose favourite subjects are NZ cityscapes, landscapes and seascapes.

He is recognised for his use of bold brushstrokes and clean vibrant colours.

Although he paints in several mediums, watercolour is his passion.

He says his aim is ‘expressions rather than imitation’.

Murray is a featured artist in the 2008 book New Zealand in Watercolour: 30 Leading Artists Paint Their Country and Its People by Denis Robinson.

He regularly tutors on both sides of the Tasman, and has been a judge at many exhibitions including the Royal Easter Show. This year he won the coveted Raye Hannam Trophy for Best in Show.

“When I’m judging, I look for an interesting choice of subject matter, good use of materials, confident brush strokes, creative use of colour and good design skills, to name a few,” he says.

“My advice to would-be exhibitors is

Whangaparaoa-based artist Murray Stuart is the judge of this year’s Great Summer Art Exhibition.

to paint with confidence and passion.

Show me how you see it and make your painting come alive.”

The Great Summer exhibition is organised as a fundraiser for the Mahurangi East Tennis Club.

Club member Jan Hooton says as usual, art will displayed in three categories – professional, intermediate and novice. Most exhibitions attract around 150 artists with sometimes up to 450 paintings on display.

“The artists set the prices, but normally they range from $100 to $1000,” she says.

As well as the art, there will be woodturning, Maggie’s Creations, raffles and the ever-popular Ace Café with home baking.

The annual exhibition will be staged in the Mahurangi East Community Centre, Snells Beach, from December 28 to January 3.

There is a $10 entry fee on opening night December 28, but the rest of the exhibition is free. The major sponsor is Bayleys.

Money raised will be spent on resurfacing the top courts.

Three of New Zealand’s top roots and reggae bands are coming together to create good vibes for the start of the year at Mangawhai Tavern on January 3.

The Black Seeds, Katchafire and Sons Of Zion will play at Mangawhai after performing eight nights in a row across the country for their summer tour.

The Black Seeds are well known for their blend of soul, afro funk, dub and groove. Since forming in the late 90s they have released five albums and toured internationally including Europe and the US. Katchafire have also been busy maintaining their reputation as one of the hardest working NZ bands, with 24 shows in North America in September and October this year. Since the release of their debut album Revival eleven years ago they have ventured to many corners of the planet including Australia, Hawaii, New Caledonia, Brazil and Europe.

ticketgiveaway

Mahurangi Matters has a double pass to giveaway. Just write your name and daytime contact phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Black Seeds Competition, Mahurangi Matters PO Box 701 Warkworth or send us a message Facebook/ mahurangimatters or news@ localmatters.co.nz with the subject line: Black Seeds. Competition closes December 22.

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December 17, 2014

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World’s best axemen at Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival Some of the best woodchoppers in the world are coming to Puhoi in January to swing razor sharp axes within metres of a crowd of over a thousand people.

The event, held in front of the Puhoi Pub on January 10, will feature world champion woodchopper Jason Wynyard.

Jason won the Stihl timbersports series for the 11th time this year and last month was jointly awarded Maori Sports Person of the Year with his son, national basketball star Tai Wynyard.

The Stihl championship is broadcast to millions worldwide and has made Jason something of a woodchopping celebrity. He also holds the world record for white pine standing block chop (12.11 seconds) and the single buck chop (9.3 seconds).

New Zealanders have dominated the international competition, with kiwis taking out 16 of the last 18 championships.

Taranaki woodchoppers and NZ representatives Jack and Shane Jordan will also return this year.

Jack was a highlight of this year’s event, as the lean 17-year-old took out several titles, beating people twice his size with decades more experience.

Puhoi Axemen secretary John Sanderson says the event has been called the best one-day chop in the country.

“The atmosphere is unbeatable, with the historic pub in the background and the natural amphitheatre of the

The atmosphere at the Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival has been described as unbeatable.

space. The crowd is right there in the action.

“Spectators love the element of danger and seeing the axemen make a difficult task seem easy.

“The standing events are booked out two months in advance. I don’t think there’s another woodchop in the country that can say that.”

There will be a total of 47 competitors across all events, however the club has been unable to find enough people

for the popular tree-felling event, where woodchoppers cut the top off a trunk while perched precariously on jiggerboards.

“A few people have had to pull out because of injuries and we haven’t been able to convince anyone to take their place. I think people are scared.

It’s an intimidating event.”

Despite the basics of the event being unchanged for 100 years, the sport is making use of the latest technology.

The club now uses an iPad app to determine the winner in dead-heats.

“In a final, all the competitors might finish within a second. We had to use it several times this year.”

The iPad is also used during training to analyse a chopper’s technique.

“Technique is more important than strength in woodchopping. You can have all the power in the world, but if you are putting it in the wrong place you’re not going to be on the podium.”

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Mahurangi Matters

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December 17, 2014

Sapling woodchoppers encouraged to ‘have a go’ at Puhoi Woodchopping captures the interest of people ranging from primary school pupils to pensioners.

At the Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival there is a 44-year age range between competitors.

At 61, Roger Farrr is older than some of the trees he is chopping, whereas Kaleb McDonnell, 17, is still a relative seedling.

Roger started the sport in his early 30s and says he is not going to hang up his axe any time soon.

“I enjoy the physical side of it. It’s a great way to keep fit.

“There’s also great camaraderie in the Puhoi Axemen. They’re a good batch of people and keep you going.”

However, the sport has been in decline in Northland since he started.

“It’s still quite popular in the South Island, but a lot of the events in the North have disappeared now. It’s a lot of work putting on an event.”

Kaleb gives hope to those who are working to change that trend.

He started chopping at age 12 when his father started the sport. It wasn’t long before he was competing.

“I’ve just been doing the underhand events so far, but I’ve managed to win some competitions. At first my father would chop the first half of the block and I would compete by finishing the other side.

“It’s great having everyone cheer you on. Even if you finish last, the crowd gets behind you, but the best part is the

He’s only 17 years old, but Kaleb McDonnell has already been competing in woodchopping for five years.

Preparing a forest for a woodchopping carnival

Roger Farr has been woodchopping for 30 years and will be competing at Puhoi next month.

feeling you get finishing your block.”

Kaleb has inspired other friends to give the sport a go and his five-yearold and 11-year-old brothers have started training at home. Next month will be Kaleb’s third Puhoi event.

“It’s the best show there is. It’s the atmosphere that makes it.”

Puhoi Axemen secretary John Sanderson

hopes the event will encourage more young people to take on the sport.

“We are planning on having an open day at the pub. If anyone is interested in the sport, they should come and talk with us at the event.

“Once you start woodchopping there’s a bug you get and you just want to chop wood as fast as you can. You can’t stop.”

Preparing wood for a chopping event takes months of work. The Puhoi Axemen prepare about 500 blocks each year to cover the four events they host, with 230 blocks chopped at the Puhoi carnival.

This requires about 40 pine trees, which are donated from members of the public and are milled into standardised blocks by the club.

“There’s nothing like the feeling of cutting blocks that you’ve spent months preparing yourself,” Puhoi Axemen secretary John Sanderson says. At the end of the event the cut blocks are donated to elderly people to use as firewood.

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December 17, 2014

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Mahurangi Matters

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December 17, 2014

There will be a variety of entertainment at the gala, from musicians and buskers to traditional gala games such as gumboot throwing.

Gala will be a stunner After last year’s successful A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Essential Theatre returns to Ascension Wine Estate with a performance of Macbeth.

Macbeth by moonlight at Ascension After three years of sell-out crowds, Ascension Wine Estate is bringing The Bard back to Mahurangi with a performance of Macbeth.

Melbourne company Essential Theatre has been entertaining Australian crowds with Shakespeare for more than a decade and their only NZ performances will be at Ascension.

The play will be performed outdoors in the vineyard with the actors surrounded by a relatively small audience sitting on picnic rugs and chairs.

Ascension’s functions manager Carlie BlanchettBurton says the atmosphere makes for a truly memorable performance.

“It has become one of the highlights of the summer here at Ascension. Guests love sipping wine among the vines as the sun sets while enjoying a live performance and Essential Theatre is such an innovative theatre company. They really bring these

classic plays to life,” Carlie says.

The actors use their open-air stage from edge-toedge, often positioning themselves amongst the audience and including them in the proceedings.

Macbeth is a classic tale of power, superstition and madness. Brave, strong and patriotic, Macbeth happens upon three witches who predict he will soon be King. His bloody rise to power is encouraged by one of theatre’s all time iconic characters Lady Macbeth.

“In a time where people are hooked on Game of Thrones and House of Cards, where ambition drives decisions at any cost, Macbeth will be raw, edgy and entertaining.

“Be ready for a bold night of theatre under the stars.”

The performances will be on Saturday January 3 and Sunday January 4.

Tickets: ascensionwine.co.nz or 422 9601. Gates open 6pm, play starts 7pm.

The Mangawhai Community Gala will excite the senses on January 2 with more than 200 stalls, food from around the globe, music and classic gala games.

The event has been a calendar staple for more than 40 years and usually attracts over 6000 people, raising about $35,000 for maintenance and work at the community-owned Mangawhai Domain.

Gala organiser John Dickie says stall holders from around Northland will be showing their wares including jewellery, clothing, preserves, paintings and photography.

There will be traditional gala games like egg and spoon races, a sack races, an egg catching competitions and gumboot throwing.

A helicopter will be offering scenic flights to paying punters.

John says the day is well supported by the community and businesses alike.

“Businesses have donated over $1500 of prizes for our raffles and the gala is organised by a core group of 10 volunteers, with about 100 volunteers helping out on the day.”

The gala runs from 8.30am to 2pm. Entry $3 for adults, $2 for children. Families $8, parking $8 per car including entry for occupants.

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December 17, 2014

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The Warkworth Rodeo usually attracts a crowd of over 5000 people on New Year’s Day.

Cowboys saddle up for 55th Warkworth Rodeo round-up Bulls will be back bucking for the 55th Warkworth Rodeo on January 1, in one of the biggest annual entertainment events in Mahurangi.

About 5000 people usually attend the rodeo, which includes bull riding, buck riding, bareback and saddle riding, ladies barrel racing, steer wrestling and a team roping contest.

The Warkworth Rodeo falls in the

middle of an eight-date rodeo tour across the North Island so the cowboys should be well in their stride by New Year’s Day. There will be about 125 people competing in the event from around NZ with about 40 bulls, 25 horses and 12 steer.

The Brahman bulls are bred by Tomarata farming couple Tom and

Marie Whiteford, who breed from a long line of bucking bulls from the US and Australia.

This year they won the NZ Rodeo Cowboys Association’s Bull of the Year award, which is selected by the riders.

Warkworth Rodeo Club secretary Krista Fletcher says the bulls are at the top of their class.

“We’ve got a whole new generation of

bulls starting which we will be using on New Year’s Day. They had their first buck at Bullmania in Warkworth this month.

“There are people who think rodeos are cruel, but the bulls are bred to buck.

“They have a rope around their flank which irritates them, but it doesn’t hurt them. If it’s too tight they won’t buck at all. For 99 per cent of the time they are out in a paddock and left to themselves.”

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December 17, 2014

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New regulations for rodeos came into force this year, which many in the industry hope will dispel negative perceptions of the sport.

However, animal welfare groups maintain that the changes are too soft.

In October, the Ministry for Primary Industries released a new Code of Welfare which set new standards for the industry including banning sheep and fireworks from rodeos.

Warkworth Rodeo Club secretary Krista Fletcher, who has been secretary for the club for 31 years, says the industry has become increasingly politically correct.

“We did have a sheep catching event for children, but we aren’t allowed to do that any more. It was just a chance for the kids to have a run around.”

She says the new regulations are mostly commonsense and a good thing for the industry.

“It’s made us more aware of animal welfare issues and a bit more aware of how the public perceive us.”

Animal welfare organisation SAFE labelled the new code a “sick joke”, saying the animals are tormented and mistreated, merely for entertainment.

They say that rodeos are in breach of New Zealand’s Animal Welfare Act which states animals should be “physically handled in a manner which minimises the likelihood of unreasonable

RODEO

or unnecessary pain or distress”.

Animal welfare issues were also highlighted earlier in the year after a video of a rodeo in Huntly went viral, showing calf roping, bulls bucking out of their stalls and a horse getting caught in it’s holding pen.

Animal welfare officer and NZ Rodeo Cowboys Association spokesperson and former president, Gary Jackson, says Warkworth rodeo has larger, better-designed stalls which minimises the risk of animals injuring themselves.

“What the animals go through is no different to what happens in the racing industry or when animals go through a stockyard at a farm,” Mr Jackson says.

“We have over 40 years of statistics and have found that, compared with other rodeo events, calf roping results in the least amount of animal injuries.

That’s in a sport which has a very low number of injuries anyway.

“These are pretty tough animals. The calves have to be over 150kg.”

The industry deals with more than six million animals in NZ, attracting about 150,000 spectators a year, he says.

“These aren’t sadistic people. Each rodeo has close to $1 million worth of stock. This is our livelihood. We know how to look after our animals.

We can’t afford to have them injured.”

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December 17, 2014

Pipers to compete Securing the final roof trusses on the huge Celtic Barn in Waipu was cause for celebration this month. The barn is on target to be completed mid next year.

Games celebrate Scottish traditions The 144th Waipu Highland Games on January 1 will see heavyweight entrants from Scotland, the United Kingdom and New Zealand, gather for what is the largest event of its type in the Southern Hemisphere.

The day will start with the March In with pipes and drums down the main street of Waipu at 9am followed by the Salute in the arena.

Heavyweight events in the arena will include the stone throw, hammer 16lb, weight for distance 14lb and caber toss.

The Ballistic Blondes will drop in at lunchtime to thrill the crowds with their sky diving skills and Cr Shelly Deeming will officially open the games at 12.30pm.

Competitions in the afternoon will include the wheat sheaf toss and highland hammer 22lb. The Tartan in the Park fashion show will start at 2pm.

Other afternoon activities include a tug of war, rock scramble and a NZ record attempt in the 160lb Farmers Walk at 3.30pm.

Waipu’s Caledonian Society has been running the games since 1871. Apart from creating tense competition at all the events, the day is a fun-filled carnival for the whole family. This year sees the

introduction of a Mini Highland Games where school children can try their hand at tossing the caber, throwing a mini hammer and hurling a hairy haggis.

There will be various running events for the reputable runners, as well as fun novelty races for children.

The Avenue of the Clans will be filled with clansmen from all around the country and the host clan this year is Clan Keith.

Scottish food is very much a part of the day and visitors are encouraged to set up their picnic rugs under the trees where they can sit back and enjoy the activities around the arena.

Dancing starts with the under 8s through to the Hector McDonald Trophy and the North Island Championship Open event. The Highland Dirk Dance, in which the dancer flourishes a weapon, is a favourite and is often linked to military sword dances. Judges for this event are Shelley Easton, from Palmerston North, and Bridgette Marchant, from Auckland.

The day will finish with a Celidh or dance in the Coronation Hall, led by the Twisty Willow Band.

Info: www.waipugames.co.nz

A Highland pipe competition, with entrants from throughout New Zealand, will be held at Waipu on December 31.

The competition was the dying wish of long-time Waipu Games supporter, Helen McGregor, in 2003.

Games promotions officer Pat Hadlee says Helen wanted to see a special piping competition established to enable top class pipers to be as creative and innovative as they wished.

“It was her idea that they be able to flare their fingers to the max and enjoy a unique experience of playing the bagpipes to their own tune,” she says.

Each entrant plays their own piece for eight minutes.

There are normally around 20 competitors vying for the top prize of $300.

The judge is Bain McGregor, who met his wife Helen at Blair Atholl Castle in Scotland. Bain was the piper-in-residence for the 10th Duke of Atholl and Helen was a tour guide.

Helen was not a piper but played a French horn and tenor horn in the Whangarei Brass Band, and tenor drum in both the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band Scotland and the Whangarei Pipe Band.

“Even though she didn’t play the pipes, she had a strong love and passion for the instrument. It is wonderful that this competition celebrates all that is inspiring in Highland piping and gives pipers a chance to create something new and special in her name.” The evening starts at 7pm. Tickets are available at the door.

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December 17, 2014

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29

the matakana vi llage pub presents

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The place to be since about 1903 Siblings Cara and Yuri Govender make up the South African band Abbey Grange.

African indie-blues coming South African indie-blues two-piece Abbey Grange will play at the Leigh Sawmill on December 20.

The brother-sister group, consisting of Cara and Yuri Govender, have won acclaim in their home country, playing large festivals and receiving standing ovations and widespread press coverage.

Cara says they visited NZ last year and fell in love with the place and are back this summer for a two-month tour.

“We thought it would be a good place in which to extend our fan base. We are

really looking forward to it,” Cara says.

The duo has received thousands of hits on Youtube for the clips they’ve recorded in their family home in Durban.

Clara says they are a dynamic band, rotating between instruments, from acoustic and electric guitar to drum, keyboard and violin.

Their name is a combination of the recording studios used by their two favourite bands – The Beatles and Led Zeppelin – who recorded at Abbey Road and Headley Grange.

ticketgiveaway

Mahurangi Matters has a double pass to giveaway. Just write your name and daytime contact phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Abbey Grange Competition, Mahurangi Matters PO Box 701 Warkworth or send us a message Facebook/mahurangimatters or news@localmatters.co.nz with the subject line: Abbey Grange. Competition closes December 19.

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Mahurangi Matters

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December 17, 2014

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Legendary kiwi rockers Shihad are touring their latest album FVEY.

Shihad set to rock Matakana Popular Kiwi bands Shihad, The Datsuns, I Am Giant and Cairo Knife Fight will rock Matakana on January 3.

It follows another successful year for Shihad whose ninth album, FVEY (pronounced Five Eyes) debuted at number one on the country’s Top 40 albums chart in August.

The legendary kiwi rockers will be joined by The Datsuns, who they toured with in 2006. The Datsuns have been busy this year touring UK, Europe and Australia with their sixth album Deep Sleep.

I Am Giant are now based in the UK

and have been touring the US and Europe with their second album Science & Survival, which has stayed on the NZ charts since its release in July.

Cairo Knife Fight are releasing their debut album next March, after releasing their first single Rezlord in this year.

The bands will be playing throughout the North Island for the summer tour.

The Matakanaval festival at Matakana Country Park includes the option of prebooked camping tickets. Return shuttles from Omaha Surf Club and Warkworth I-Site are available, along with a return bus from Auckland to Matakana.

ticketgiveaway

Mahurangi Matters has a double pass to giveaway. Just write your name and daytime contact phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Shihad Competition, Mahurangi Matters PO Box 701 Warkworth or send us a message Facebook/mahurangimatters or news@localmatters.co.nz with the subject line: Shihad. Competition closes December 22.

417 Old Woodcocks Road, Warkworth 09 422 5709

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December 17, 2014

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Mahurangi Matters

THANKS & MERRY CHRISTMAS from Warkworth Wellsford Hospice

DEC to

Christmas lights at 31 Ashmore Cres (off Melwood Drive) Warkworth

6 JAN

Throughout December until 6 January ● Donations to Hospice

Hospice Garage Sale

DEC

24

WEDNESDAY 24 December 7 to 11am (Note: Garage sales resume on 7 January) 51 Woodcocks Rd Warkworth, Phone 425 9535

art exhibition

ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND

A lot of care and attention goes into presenting the animals at the Warkworth A&P Show.

JAN

22-26

Matakana School Hall

Strong interest in A&P Show The trade section of next month’s annual Warkworth A&P Lifestyle Show is shaping up to be wellsupported with a greater number of exhibitors than usual.

Show secretary Marjorie Blythen says she has been pleasantly surprised by the number of enquiries from businesses in the north, particularly those based in Whangarei and Dargaville.

The 148th show will be held on Auckland Anniversary Weekend, January 24 and 25.

More than 7000 people are expected to go through the gates for the familyfriendly event, which is becoming a showcase of rural life in Auckland’s north.

Traditional events on the Saturday include the animal classes such as cattle, dairy goats and alpaca competitions, sheep shearing, sheep dog trials and the hugely popular Puhoi Axemen.

In the main arena, as well as the trade sites, there will be a Village Market which was introduced last year. Entries for the home grown produce, cake decorating and floral art exhibits in the Indoor Section are welcome, and there will be a food and wine section.

Other attractions include live music, the Warkworth Pipe Band, miniature ponies, a petting zoo, a dance display and the popular sheep racing, as well as children’s sideshows and the Fairy Princess and Pirate competitions.

Show jumping classes on the equestrian field will be held on the Sunday.

Anyone interested in securing a trade stall should contact the A&P office on 422 2052.

Information about the show is also available on their facebook page at Warkworth A&P Lifestyle Show.

Preview Thursday 22 January 2015 from 6pm Open all weekend 12pm Friday to 12pm Monday www.warkworthwellsfordhospice.co.nz ● (09) 425 9535

Christmas 2014 at

5 Pulham Road, Warkworth. Phone 425 8861 This Christmas season we are celebrating the 200th Anniversary of the preaching of the first Christian message in NZ. We invite you to come and join with us in these celebrations.

Dec 21 -

Family Service 10.30am at Mahurangi College

Dec 24 -

“Te Harinui” Christmas Eve Carols 6pm & 10pm, Warkworth

Dec 24 -

8pm at St Andrew’s Matakana Country Park“

Dec 25 -

9.30am Christmas Day Warkworth

Dec 28 & All Sundays in January 9am & 10.30am For more information visit www.mahu.org.nz

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Mahurangi Matters

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December 17, 2014

s a m t s i r h C Merry and safe travelling over the holidays

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NEW LOOK FOR 2015 FROM OUR EXPERIENCED TEAM

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Students at Snells Beach School got a taste of what’s in store in the summer Dare to Explore reading programme.

Reading adventure takes children out of this world The free Dare to Explore summer programme run by Auckland libraries, which encourages children to take an adventurous approach to reading, is underway.

The theme for the season is Out of this World and will take young ‘explorers’ on 60 challenges at home, on holiday, in the library, at the beach or online.

“Research shows our programme focus on fun, engagement and exploration has positive impacts on literacy outcomes for children,” Auckland Libraries manager Allison Dobbie says.

“Those who continue to read over summer return to school with an increased or maintained reading ability. The programme is particularly helpful for children with lower reading confidence.”

Last year, a record 8330 children joined the Dare to Explore programme.

This summer, Te Reo is being introduced in response to feedback.

Dare to Explore will run until January 18 and is open to all children aged from five to 13 years old. Enquiries welcome at all local libraries.

Info: aucklandlibraries.govt.nz

More than your Lucky Lotto Shop at the Top of Town

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Don’t leave town til you’ve see the range of fantastic gifts at Woodys Winners.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

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December 17, 2014

Mahurangi Matters

33

We’ve got the surfing bug and we’re keen to pass it on • Kids & adult surf lessons • Holiday surf programmes • Surfing tours • School & youth groups

P: 09 434 3843 | www.oneillsurfacademy.co.nz | surf@oneillsurfacademy.co.nz |

Niko Ne Zna

Foot-stomping gypsy brass Nine-piece brass band Niko Ne Zna will bring their high energy Balkangypsy sounds to the Leigh Sawmill on January 6.

The band recently had three songs featured in the Taika Waititi and Germaine Clement movie What We Do in the Shadows including the song for the ending credits.

The band consists of two trumpets, saxophone, bass and tenor trombones, sousaphone, percussion, Balkan bass drum (tapan) and snare drum. In the best tradition of Roma gypsy bands, Niko Ne Zna roam while playing, giving the whole performance an authentic flavour, enchanting the

ticketgiveaway

audience into dancing, singing, clapping and stomping all night long.

Vocalist/percussionist Nikkie Rich sings in Serbian, Romani, Macedonian and Greek and the name Niko Ne Zna means ‘no-one knows’ in Serbo-C roatian.

Band member Frankie Curac says the Wellington band always gets a great reaction in the north.

“There seems to be a lot more people with Balkan heritage in northern NZ and it seems to mean a lot to them. I had a guy come and kiss me on the lips at the end of one of our shows. The music is huge in Eastern Europe, but has a big following here too.”

Mahurangi Matters has a double pass to giveaway. Just write your name and daytime contact phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Niko Ne Zna Competition, Mahurangi Matters PO Box 701 Warkworth or send us a message Facebook/mahurangimatters or news@localmatters.co.nz with the subject line: Niko Ne Zna. Competition closes December 23.

34

Mahurangi Matters

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December 17, 2014

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Those who think it’s fun to crawl through mud drains and jump over electrified fences will be in extreme challenge heaven at a fundraising MatakanaXRun next month.

Military Arts at the Matakana Country Park want to raise $20,000 for The Puriri Tree Foundation Trust, a charity that supports youth development.

The extreme challenge on January 10 will be more than 5.5km long and involves 65 obstacles. Along with the normal confidence course including a 150m mud drain, monkey bars, catwalks, walls and a lake, the extreme course will include hay bales, horse jumps and special obstacles designed by the NZ Army.

Military Arts owner Max Carpenter says confidence courses were designed by the military as team building exercises and are perfect for youth development and identifying future leaders.

“It forces them to problem solve, look for help and think about others. To overcome obstacles and get through the course they need to help their friends and work together as a team,” Max says.

He says the Puriri Tree Foundation has supported a lot of young people to attend the Military Arts programmes over the years, and the fundraiser is a chance to give back. About 20 people will be volunteering, including the Omaha Surf Club to monitor water activities. Max is also calling on his old army mates from 14 Battery, 16 Field Regiment, Royal NZ Artillery to

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Military Arts owner Max Carpenter is calling on his former NZ Army colleagues to create special obstacles for the extreme challenge fundraiser.

create military grade obstacles.

“While there’s a competitive element, at the end of the day it’s a fun run and we’ll be encouraging teams to help and give each other a lift.”

MatakanaXRun is designed as a twoperson event with open male, open female or mixed gender team options.

All competitors will be electronically tagged and timed.

Info: The MatakanaXRun is on Saturday January 10 at the Military Arts compound inside the Matakana Country Park. Cost per team is $160 or early bird bookings (by December 31) are $140. Book by phoning 422 9944 or e-mail info@militaryarts.co.nz

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Something Beginning With B Damage Tyler Bothers Duo Usual Suspect Theme Night (Theme to be confirmed)

FEBRUARY FEB 6 Karaoke FEB 14 Valentines Day – Sue Dyson FEB 21 Recliner Rockers FEB 27 Fairy Tale Party

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December 17, 2014

Mahurangi Matters

35

Warkworth musician Andy Richards has been playing about five gigs a week at local pubs and weddings.

Musician beats X Factor heats Warkworth musician Andy Richards is off to the reality show X Factor boot camp next month after being selected from a total of 5000 contestants.

Andy is one of 100 contestants who have made it through the auditions after playing in front of a panel of four judges and a live studio audience last month.

“I was one of the last people to perform and everyone kept coming off the stage saying the judges were being horrible, but I went out there and they were lovely,” Andy says.

All Saints singer Melanie Blatt and Australian Idol winner Stan Walker have returned to judge the second X Factor series alongside new husband and wife judges Willy Moon and Natalia Kills.

“They said I am a great performer and entertainer but that with my background playing covers gigs, I need to make sure I bring originality to my music. I’ve been writing my own music for a long time so I don’t think that will be a problem.”

The four-day boot camp starts on January 11, where the musicians will be put through their paces. The final

24 will go on the Judges Retreat, where each judge takes six performers to different locations around the world. The final 12 performers will go through to the live-to-air finals.

“I’m just going to go and have fun. I’m 31 and I’ve got nothing to loose.

“If I can get my name out there and can tour the country playing my music, that’s my dream.”

The winner of X Factor gets a recording contract with Sony Music NZ. Andy has already released an album and an EP, and has been a fulltime musician for about 18 months, playing four or five covers gigs every week around Mahurangi and in Auckland.

His band Andy Richards and The Grand have also made it through to the national Battle of the Bands finals.

More than 100 bands entered the competition and 20 will compete in the final at the Kings Arms on December 19 and Juice Bar on December 20.

Andy has entered the Battle of the Band about five times, but this is the first time he has made the final.

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Mahurangi Matters

December 17, 2014

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Pool / Spa Valets Onsite Chemical Testing Water Chemical Supplier Pool Equipment Replacement Repairs & Maintenance Pool Refurbishment simplesilver agent Michelle Woolley

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TWO PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFTS IN STORE NOW

Waiheke artist Katie Trinkle Legge is one of 12 artists who will exhibit works at mARTakana for the first time.

Hospice presents new work The organisers of mARTakana have sourced some fresh and exciting art talent for the 2015 exhibition on Auckland Anniversary Weekend.

The five-day art sale will feature some local favourites as well as artists from further afield whose work has never been shown at this exhibition.

Now in its ninth year, mARTakana is held in the Matakana School Hall and raises funds for Warkworth Wellsford Hospice.

Fundraising coordinator Lesley Ingham says artists have been invited

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with a view to having a variety of media and styles, and a wide range of prices.

The exhibition opens with a preview at 6pm on Thursday January 22, where guests will be treated to wine donated

by Omaha Bay Vineyard and food featuring specialty cheeses donated by Puhoi Valley. Entry is by donation.

The show will then be open from noon on Friday until noon on Monday, with free entry. mARTakana is sponsored

by Bayleys Real Estate.

Info: warkworthwellsfordhospice.co.nz

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December 17, 2014

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Mahurangi Matters

Memories of Mangawhai Since she was a teenager, listening to Elemeno P from a dinghy in the estuary backing onto Mangawhai Tavern, Jamie McDell has always wanted to play at her “local”.

Ten years later, the 22-year-old singersongwriter finds it surreal that Elemeno P’s drummer Scotty Pearson is now in her back-up band for her first gig at the tavern on December 27. The all-ages gig is also a double billing with Jason Kerrison, founder of NZ band Opshop.

“It seemed so prestigious, they have such huge bands and I only dreamed I would play there one day,” Jamie says.

Although many of Jamie’s dreams have come true since then, including playing to massive crowds at Vector Arena, she was determined to play in the town that has influenced her music.

Jamie was discovered at the age of 16

by EMI Music New Zealand (now Universal) after sending them a demo tape of her pop acoustic music. Today, she has a collection of number one singles, won Best Pop Album at the 2013 NZ Music Awards and has more than 200,000 followers on Facebook.

She says Mangawhai, where her family had a bach and now live full time, was the home of her song writing.

“It’s where I got time to myself and wrote everything. I just liked writing

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Jamie McDell

outside in beautiful, clear open spaces.”

A video for one of her most popular songs Life in Sunshine was filmed at Mangawhai.

These days Jamie still tries to make it back to the beach, where she enjoys sailing, scuba diving and longboarding.

However, in the past year, she has been missing home as she travelled to Australia and Los Angeles while writing her latest album Ask Me Anything, which will be released in February. Once again Mangawhai influenced her writing as she pined for home, including the song My Old Hands. She also recorded the video for her song Dumb at the Old Cement Works in Warkworth.

ticketgiveaway

Mahurangi Matters has a double pass to giveaway. Just write your name and daytime contact phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Jamie McDell Competition, Mahurangi Matters PO Box 701 Warkworth or send us a message Facebook/mahurangimatters or news@localmatters.co.nz with the subject line: Jamie McDell. Competition closes December 22.

I

GREAT SUMMER

T O N A R E X H B T I Snells Beach Community Centre Hamatana Road, Snells Beach Preview Evening

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Book those bikes in to be repaired.

Santa Shed available for pre Christmas pick up.

Expert sales staff to make sure you find the bike & equipment that suits your needs.

NOW OPEN 9AM - 5PM TUES - FRI • 9AM - 12PM SAT • OR BY APPOINTMENT

Cool Kids Warkworth (MSD approved OSCAR programme)

Discounts and vouchers avaliable on: -Dive Gear -Training Courses -Charters Get your dive gear serviced now before the season starts!

School Holiday Programme January 2015 Are you tired of hearing your kids saying ‘Mum I’m bored !!’ ?

Then make your bookings now for our fantastic JANUARY 2015 Holiday Programme!

Some great fun is planned with trips to Action World, Sky Tower, Motat, Maritime Museum also Beach Days, Picnics, Art and Craft, Pizza making and much more!

Information Booklets are available contact Cool Kids (027 931 1311) or Warkworth School (425 8300).

Visit us at 22 Whitaker Road, Warkworth (09) 422 3599 or 021 221 3971 Email: Neil@NZdiving.co.nz

Enrolment forms can be downloaded from the school website

www.warkworth.school.nz

38

Mahurangi Matters

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December 17, 2014 INTR ODUCING n

Mahurangi Joinery

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Nearly 20 years experience in manufacturing joinery will be put to good use at the recently-opened Mahurangi Joinery factory, in Glenmore Drive, Warkworth, owned

by Joel and Suzannah Hemus.

The new business will specialise in solid, high quality wooden joinery for new building projects and renovations, using a selection of different timbers.

Joel says that while timber is more expensive and requires regular maintenance, it has better thermo properties and, in terms of renovations, adds value to a home.

“It is also sustainable and far better for the environment,” he says.

The couple stress that the experience of building two homes on a budget has taught them the value of good communication and customer service.

“We want happy customers who get the best joinery for their budget.

There are always choices in terms of materials and design, and that’s where we believe our experience will really count.”

Joel’s team includes joiner Bruce Tucker who has nearly 40 years experience under his belt.

Both Joel and Suzannah grew-up in Warkworth and are members of the Ablaze Church, where they are involved in youth group activities and

Suzannah and Joel Hemus.

the church band. Suzannah is also a keen baker who shares her cooking secrets on the Facebook page Lily’orne & co. and she is well-known to customers at Chocolate Brown.

“Steve and Donna gave me my first job when I was just 15 so they have had a lot of input into my life. I feel privileged to have worked with such successful business role models and I’m sure that what I’ve learned will help our business as we go forward into this new venture.”

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localbusiness

December 17, 2014

Mahurangi Matters

39

Champion craft brewery starts up in Glenmore Drive One of the most renowned names in craft beer is establishing their first brewery in Warkworth, which is set to become one of the largest craft breweries in the country.

8 Wired is one of the most awarded labels in NZ and has got international attention for its prolific and adventurous craft beer.

Head brewer Soren Eriksen is the only brewer in the southern hemisphere to feature in the top 100 brewers list, on international beer website ratebeer.com.

The label also won top prize at the Brewers Guild Awards in 2011 being awarded Champion Brewery and, this year, picked up eight medals including three golds and three silvers.

Warkworth will be the first time 8 Wired has had a permanent home, since starting up five years ago.

Soren found his calling after making his first batch of homebrew in 2005. After three years of honing his skills, he started working for Renaissance Brewing in Blenheim, which won champion small brewery at the Australian International Beer Awards in 2013 and 2014, and Champion NZ Brewery last year.

8 Wired started in 2009 using Renaissance’s equipment and later, at Steam Brewing Company, in Auckland.

But last year Soren moved to Warkworth with his wife Monique, who takes care of the administration of the company.

“We have just had two children and moved up here for the lifestyle. We love the beaches and the regional parks,” Monique says.

Assistant brewer Jason Bathgate has also relocated from Blenheim to work at the new brewery.

Soren says a permanent brewery will allow him to become more adventurous and expand production.

“Things move so slowly when you don’t have your own equipment and it takes a lot more planning. I hope to experiment more and get things moving faster.”

Soren and Monique Erikson have finally found a home for 8 Wired Brewing, in Glenmore Drive, Warkworth.

The plan is to nearly double production at the Glenmore Drive brewery in the first year and to eventually make it one of the largest craft breweries in the country.

“We currently produce about 300,000 litres a year.

We want to boost that to 500,000 litres in our first year, then the sky is the limit. At capacity, we would produce about two million litres a year.”

About half of the beer produced is exported, mainly to Australia and the US, but they are focusing on growing the local market.

“Most beers aren’t made to be exported. They’re best when fresh.”

Each year, the label produces about 20 different beers, ranging from the flagship pale ale Hop Wired and the Flat White Coffee Milk Stout to a new range of sour-beer, aged in oak wine barrels.

In October, the company shipped around 230 barrels of beer in four 40-foot containers.

“I think we’ve got the largest collection of barrelaged beers in the Southern Hemisphere.”

The results will form part of the 2015 range, taking the brewery down a new path. The beers are fermented from wild yeast and bacteria, which develop unique citrus flavours. Many of the barrels also have a fruit addition including feijoa, strawberries, cherries and dates.

“We want barrel-aged beers to be our point of difference, but we’ve always been about producing big flavours.”

Soren hopes to produce his first Warkworth brew before Christmas, but won’t be bottling beer until March when further equipment arrives. They hope to start door-sales from next year.

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December 17, 2014

localmatters.co.nz

History

Lyn Johnston, Albertland Museum www.albertland.co.nz

Christmas in wartime As the festive season approaches, 100 years since WWI began, I think about all the young men (and women) who went overseas to fight for their country never returning for Christmas with their families. When war broke out, Alf Moffatt, of Wharehine, was typical of the other Territorials who went to Awanui to guard the wireless station there. At the age of 20, he volunteered for the Expeditionary Force and entered Trentham with the 11th Reinforcements on 14 December 1915. He was ill when that draft left, but embarked a month later with the 12th reinforcements on the troop ship Ulimaroa. This draft was the last of the New Zealand infantry sent via the Suez Canal and Egypt. They reached the Canal Zone on 9 June 1916. Alf now had pneumonia so was admitted to the No 2 Australian Hospital, at Tel El Kebir. Once recovered he travelled via France to Sling Camp in England where he was posted to the 1st Canterbury Company.

His letters and postcards home were cheerful and chatty even though he was often ill. One letter, written in hospital on 19 December 1916, said that he’d had his tonsils removed at Codford Hospital the week before but hoped to be out before Christmas. He commented that it had been very, very

Alfred Moffatt with his sisters Grace who became Mrs Harold Marsh (left) and Liz who became Mrs Bob Johnston. W H Marsh Collection, Albertland Heritage Centre.

cold “pretty trying for Colonials and everyone complains of coughs and colds and a lot are going back to New Zealand with chest complaints. I can’t see myself going to France this winter.

They are getting up concerts in the hospital for the Christmas season, the first one came off last night and was very successful.”

Alf sent home the December 13 issue of Chronicles of the NZEF (Price 6d, Troops 3d, France 4d) and wrote at the top of the first page … ‘Dear Grace, just left hospital again, so am having Xmas in camp. Going on leave for New Year and expect to get furlough later, not doing any drill at present. Hope you are all well as I am

at present, Alf.” The magazine’s editor wrote: “Here we are – our third Christmas spent across the seas; and what was it they said when we joined up in August ’14? Ah, yes, I remember. “How foolish you are to go. Germany will be finished before you get there. She cannot exist longer than Christmas.” … Christmas 1916 is almost with us and the men whose third it is from home grow fewer and fewer. Those who are left fight on still in the same old way, though they have grown perhaps a trifle more serious and regard war more as a deadly business than a pastime.”

Alf spent his leave in London but later spent time in a convalescent hospital with flu and bronchitis. In June 1917, he left Folkestone for France and was posted to the 14th Otago Infantry.

In his last letter to Grace, dated 27 August, he wrote … “we never see anything to shoot here except rats & cats & Fritz’s aeroplanes, & they’re no good to eat, even if we could hit ‘em.”

Enclosed in the letter was a poppy from No-Man’s Land. As it turned out, 1916 was Alf ’s last Christmas. On 3 October 1917, Private Alfred Moffatt, aged 22, was killed at Passchendaele.

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Mahurangi Matters

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Architecture and design for the places we Live, Work, Learn and Play.

Directors: Grant Neill, Peter Eising, Phillip Howard, and Clive Chapman.

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Campervans will soon be able to park overnight at Parry Kauri Park.

Overnight camping approved Overnight camping at Parry Kauri Park has been given the green light.

An agreement is yet to be signed between Auckland Council and the Warkworth and Districts Museum, but Council staff have recommended self-contained campervans be allowed for a 12 month trial.

Camping will be free with a maximum stay of two nights, but the gates will be locked from 7pm to 7am.

The Museum put the proposal to Rodney Local Board in August. Museum committee member Ian Ferguson said there was a lack of campervan sites in Warkworth and the move would encourage tourism in the area.

The park is already a tourist attraction, but the museum believes

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that accommodating campervans will mean more people can enjoy it.

The park contains two 800-year-old kauri trees and a walkway through a regenerating kauri forest with glowworms.

“The change will have little impact on the Council-owned park and won’t cost ratepayers,” Mr Ferguson says.

“The campervans don’t need any facilities, except a safe place to park.

We have the space and there are security patrols.”

Council regularly removes rubbish from the park, so the museum is not expecting extra costs for waste collection.

The site will be advertised in the NZ Motor Caravan Association magazine.

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Mahurangi Matters

December 17, 2014

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Recycling collection changes Some Auckland Council kerbside recycling collection dates change during the summer break.

If your usual collection day is:

Put recycling out:

Thursday 25 December 2014 Friday 26 December 2014 Friday 26 December 2014 Saturday 27 December 2014 Thursday 1 January 2015 Friday 2 January 2015 Friday 2 January 2015 Saturday 3 January 2015

A joint Matakana School-Bayleys Real Estate promotion has paid dividends.

Principal Darrel Gossen accepts a cheque from Bayleys Mark Macky and Shailenne Parkes.

Property sales fund school BC4246_MM

House sales in Matakana this year have been swelling the school coffers.

For the past 12 months, Shailenne Parkes of Bayleys in the North, has run a fundraising campaign alongside the school where she donated $500 for any listing from a parent at the school.

The campaign raised $5000, which was handed over to the school this month by Shailenne and Bayleys in the North director Mark Macky.

The funds will be used for the school’s ‘future focused learning initiative’, which will be implemented next year.

Each student in years four to six will receive a device supplied by the school.

“As a Decile 9 school, Matakana receives little funding from the government and relies heavily on fundraising,” Board of trustee representative Grant Clifton says. “We really appreciate the fantastic support we have received from Bayleys.”

On Resene premium paints, stains, primers, sealers, wallpaper, decorating accessories and cleaning products

Normal recycling collections resume Monday 5 January 2015.

Visit makethemostofwaste.co.nz or call 09 301 0101.

For rubbish collection date changes, please check with your provider.

Come in and see us today at the Warkworth Resene ColorShop: 50 Morrison Drive Ph: 422 2150 30645 MMT

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Conditions: Buy Resene premium paints, stains, primers, sealers, wallpaper, decorating accessories and cleaning products and get the GST (15% off the full retail price) off at your Resene ColorShop and participating resellers. The GST reduction will be calculated on the normal retail price OR if you have a Resene ColorShop or DIY Card you can get the Save the GST sale discount and then the Resene ColorShop or DIY Card discount off the Save the GST sale price. Excludes Crown, trade and industrial products, PaintWise levy and account sales. Paint offers also available at participating Mitre 10 MEGA and Mitre 10 stores. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Offer closes 28 January 2015.

localmatters.co.nz December 17, 2014

Mahurangi Matters

43

Bridgestone Tyre Centre Warkworth are very proud to have come first in the northern region for selling pink caps in support of Breast Cancer.

We would like to thank Warkworth for all their support.

Julie Jarvis Owner

Since the start of this campaign, Bridgestone countrywide have raised almost $500,000.

Bridgestone Tyre Centre Warkworth has been operating for 6 years and has supported the community of Warkworth during that time.

We pride ourselves in being an honest and friendly family business.

We love the people of Warkworth coming in, even if it’s just say hello, which they do.

Having a ‘fit for purpose’ lifejacket is vital when heading out on the water and the Old4New Lifejacket Upgrade campaign makes it convenient to get the appropriate lifejacket and the right fit.

Lifejacket upgrades popular The Coastguard lifejacket exchange campaign will visit Omaha, Mangawhai and Marsden Point boat ramps later this month, and Sandspit in early January.

Boaties and members of the public are being encouraged to visit the van and trade in their old lifejackets where they then receive a generous trade-in

discount on a new quality lifejacket – $40 off the popular inflatable jacket and $30 off a range of foam lifejackets.

Since starting last month, more than 400 lifejackets have been traded in.

Some have been more than 50 years old from classic sailing and cork jackets, to those that children have out grown. Info: www.coastguard.org.nz

• We don’t just sell Tyres, we specialise in wheel alignments, brakes, suspension, Truck and Tractor Tyres, Batteries, some Mechanical.

• We have a daily In-house special as well as our advertised Bridgestone Specials.

• We also advise our customers to come in for a Free safety check before the Christmas and New Year break, to make sure everything is in good working order before you go away.

All the Team At Bridgestone Tyre Centre would like to wish the Warkworth community “Happy Safe Travelling over Christmas and New Year.”

Local dates: • Omaha Boat Ramp – Friday, Dec 26, 7am-10am; 3pm-5.30pm • Mangawhai South Boat Ramp – Saturday Dec 27, 7am-10am; 3pm-5.30pm • Marsden Cove Boat Ramp – Sunday Dec 28, 7am-10am; 3pm-5.30pm • Sandspit Boat Ramp – Saturday Jan 3, 7.30am-1.30pm

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Mahurangi Matters

rurallife

December 17, 2014

Highway traffic diversion causes bridge frustration People frustrated with traffic jams at one-lane bridges are going to have to wait.

Auckland Transport (AT) says it has no plans to widen bridges in Rodney in the near future.

A Kaipara Flats resident Shirley Taylor says a one-lane bridge near her property is acting as a road block when traffic from SH1 is detoured along Kaipara Flats Road usually after an accident in the Dome Valley.

She says the route sends all northbound traffic across a single lane bridge, making the road unusable for traffic heading against the flow.

“There is a constant stream of traffic after a diversion and the bridge is so close to a corner that drivers have little chance to see you and let you through,” Mrs Taylor says.

Police are in charge of managing traffic when a diversion is in place.

Warkworth Officer in Charge Sergeant Morgan de la Rue says it is just a case of people having to be patient and courteous.

“We can’t be expected to ensure that everybody has traffic free access to the road at all times.

“People also have difficulty getting out of their driveways during diversions. It shouldn’t take too long before someone is polite and lets them through.”

Mrs Taylor wants the bridge to be widened to allow two lanes, but AT says this is unlikely in the near future.

“Bridges cost around $400-$500,000 to replace so work is usually only done once a bridge has deteriorated and become unsafe,” media relations manager Mark Hannan says.

“Traffic volumes and accident history are also considered when determining whether to replace a bridge.

“Traffic volumes need to be greater than 500 vehicles a day with traffic speeds exceeding 70kph for a bridge to be considered for upgrade.

“Where this isn’t achievable, traffic signals could be considered.

“Though traffic accidents, historically, have not been a significant issue for single lane bridges.”

The last one-lane bridge replaced in Rodney was in Anderson Road, a dead-end road serving about 30 properties.

AT says the bridge was in poor condition and unsafe. The new bridge was widened and built to last for 100 years, as it was assumed the road would eventually be sealed and traffic volumes and speeds would increase.

A total of 75 per cent or 175 of Auckland’s one-lane bridges are in Rodney.

AT’s annual bridge renewal budget across Auckland is $8 million, with $2 million earmarked for Rodney.

However, much of the budget is spent on renewing bridge components rather than carrying out full replacements.

Sally Randall was one of the speakers at the Pretty in Pink get-together.

Tomarata fundraiser a success Around 46 people attended a luncheon at the Forest Reserve Hall, in Tomarata, last month to raise money for the Breat Cancer Foundation.

Forest Reserve branch president Geraldine Taylor said the ‘Pretty in Pink’ event was also a chance for local women to get together and enjoy themselves.

“Everyone had a wonderful time and $750 was raised for the breast cancer cause,” she says.

Tables were set with with fine china and the hall was appropriately decorated in pink with balloons and a frieze on the walls.

“There were little girls pretty in their pink tutus, elegant outfits and some more dramatic statements such as a bright pink face mask and net fascinator creation.”

There was also a delicious selection of

finger food, raffles and produce and crafts to purchase from the trading table.

Sally Randall, from the Wellzone Natural Health Centre in Wellsford, gave a talk on foot reflexology and demonstrated reflexology’s relaxation benefits on two volunteers. Gay McPherson, also from Wellzone, talked about summer skin care.

Participants came from as far afield as the Aoroa Branch Rural Women NZ in Dargaville and included the local playcentre mothers and their daughters, North Albertland Women’s Institute members, as well as many Tomarata residents.

“We really appreciate the support from the local community and would like to especially acknowledge the generous donations of items for the raffles and the trading table,” Geraldine said.

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rurallife

December 17, 2014

Mahurangi Matters

45

Wine

Gary Heaven, President, Matakana Winegrowers

Oh what a job!

Monday November 24 was a significant day in the year for many Matakana wineries. It was all about the opinion of one man. This man has the job that many of us aspire to â&#x20AC;&#x201C; he tastes wine for a living. His living is publishing a book and a website, and to do that he needs to taste upwards of 3000 wines each year.

November 24 marked the release of the 2015 Michael Cooper Buyers Guide for New Zealand Wines.

Michael Cooper is one of a rare breed who has the ability to accurately taste and smell the characters in wine and to be able to do this consistently year after year.

Michael is also completely independent. He does not charge for his tastings and, therefore, he is not influenced by the wineries or any retailers. He writes what he sees in each wine and gives each wine a star rating from zero to five. As a consumer, you can use these star ratings and his tasting notes to help you decide whether you would like a particular wine.

What does this mean for us as Matakana winegrowers? Many of us submit wines to Michael Cooper for tasting and rating, and to be included in the Buyers Guide. We have our own opinions on wines that we think are good and on which wines we think might be exceptional. We know that Michael will rate the wine based on what he sees in the glass rather than what is on the label or where the wine is grown. Therefore, we can benchmark ourselves against wines from other regions. It is quite exciting to get hold of a copy of his book and see whether our opinions match his.

I did a quick analysis of the ratings of the Matakana wines. A total of 33 wines from nine Matakana winegrowers are included in the latest edition. Of these wines 21 per cent gained five stars (i.e. were considered outstanding) and 85 per cent of the wines gained four or more stars.

bookgiveaway

Mahurangi Matters has a copy of the Michael Cooper Buyers Guide for New Zealand Wines to give away. Just write your name and daytime contact phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Wine Book Competition, Mahurangi Matters PO Box 701 Warkworth or send us a message Facebook/ mahurangimatters with the subject line: Wine Book. Competition closes January 5. The winner will also receive a yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free subscription to the website michaelcooper.co.nz.

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Mahurangi Matters

rurallife

December 17, 2014

Gardening Andrew Steens

Making the drips count It doesn’t seem that long ago that our garden was a soggy bog; nothing like Point Wells peat to absorb all the rainfall that winter and spring can throw at it. Already though, I’ve run the hoses out to get in early with watering, before the soil starts to dry out too much. The key is to water before the plants start to wilt. Water stress happens well before wilting starts; wilting is nature’s way of providing the plants with their last chance of survival till the next rain, but prior to this, production of new shoots, flowers and fruit will have slowed or even stopped.

Another good reason for getting in early is the soil itself. Once it gets too dry, it tends to become hydroscopic, the technical term for becoming water repellent.

It takes much more watering to get water soaking into hydroscopic soil rather than just running off the surface.

I’m lucky enough to have a good size bore, so running out of water is not an issue and I can have half a dozen sprinklers running at once! However, even in this situation, water conservation is still important to protect the aquifer. Mulching gardens with a thick layer of wood chips at the end of spring while the soil is still damp is the best method of saving water. The side benefits include the fact that worms and soil micro-organisms love the moist protected environment and plant roots thrive.

Choosing the right irrigation method is also important. For the greenhouse and veggie gardens, I’m changing over to “leaky” hose, the stuff that seeps water out of minute pores. These and soaker hoses are the most water stingy methods and keeping water off the foliage also reduces diseases. In the ornamental gardens, I hope to change over to mini-sprinklers as funds and time permit. These are permanently installed and not only will save me time and hassle shifting sprinklers, but also can be set up so water isn’t wasted on paths. Sprinklers are needed in my ornamental gardens as my rather large bromeliad collection prefers its water delivered from above rather than below; otherwise I’d use soak hoses here too.

Finally, the lawns and orchard get the most wasteful of methods – rotary sprinklers. These are best for covering large areas and also deliver water more slowly per square metre than the other systems, allowing more time for the water to soak in. Really, I should be following the lead of drier regions of the world such as California, where persistent droughts have led to home owners letting their lawns die off over summer (or even replacing them altogether with drought resistant species), but my gardener’s vanity won’t allow me to let my lush green sward turn crispy and brown.

Leigh Harbour Valley Society has been funded to continue its work restoring the Leigh Harbour catchment.

Conservation grants boost local community projects More than 130 community projects across Auckland will share $634,000 in grants from Auckland Council’s Environmental Initiatives Fund.

The fund supports individual and community initiatives that enhance and conserve important environmental and heritage sites.

Northern recipients are: Young Ocean Explorers – $10,000 for the production of at least three fiveminute episodes (out of 10) of a series of videos that will educate children on a unique marine creature in the Hauraki Gulf. The episodes will be screened on TV and in schools for Years 1-10.

T & M Stazyk Partnership (CUE Haven)

– $5000 to continue to transform a former dairy farm into a sustainable forest ecosystem that connects forest remnants and rehabilitates wetlands and streams in the Kaipara catchment.

Manaia Properties – $5000 for riparian planting along Mataia Stream.

Leigh Harbour Valley Society – $3600 to remove invasive weeds in a high density area of weed infestation.

Leigh School – $3000 to establish an edible garden that will not only provide a learning space for students and the local community, but will also provide a healthy habitat for native flora and fauna.

Takatu Landcare Group – $2800 towards a storage shed for poison and traps.

Sandspit SOS – $1700 for nursery supplies, and pest animal and pest plant control equipment, as part of a saltmarsh and wetlands restoration project.

Richard Wallington – $1000 to plant native plants at Ahuroa.

Hoteo North School Society – $1000 for stage two of the Hoteo North Bush Block restoration project which involves replanting areas with native plants that have been fenced off from stock.

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rurallife

December 17, 2014

Tossi

Sue Crawshay, TOSSI www.tossi.org.nz

Credit where credit is due It’s been a big year of exciting achievements at Tawharanui. With the completion of the replica gannet colony to attract gannets, the planting of 24,000 trees in the open sanctuary and the introduction of the takahe it’s been very busy.

Tawharanui may also be able to claim a first fluttering shearwater chick on the Hauraki Gulf mainland for 50 years. An exciting and momentous event for seabird restoration.

Events such as the takahe release require a great deal of behind-the-scenes work – fundraising, endless form filling, building relationships between the iwi gifting the takahe and the iwi receiving the birds into their rohe, applying for permits to DOC for translocation and then there are approaches to the generous sponsors.

The open sanctuary also required a good deal of preparation to receive the takahe. The normal array of traps and bait stations throughout the 588 hectares of the open sanctuary needed modifications to prevent accidental trapping or poisoning of these incredibly precious and curious birds. This was a massive undertaking.

Our 10 takahe have settled in and are busy establishing territories. The takahe monitoring teams are still tracking the birds every second day to ensure they are all located and that none have gone beyond the coastal ends of the sanctuary fence.

The huge amount of volunteer work put in reaps rewards for visitors who can walk through the park and see robins, saddlebacks, whiteheads, pateke, kereru, bellbirds, tui, morepork, kakariki kaka and takahe: a truly wonderful experience.

None of these achievements would be Saddleback possible without the dedicated park staff and the ever generous TOSSI volunteers.

Thanks to all of you and we wish you and your family a Happy Christmas and a safe and prosperous new year.

Save the date The next TOSSI Sunday in the Park will be Sunday February 1. Meet at the Woolshed from 9am. A barbecue will follow the work activities.

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Mahurangi Matters

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Mahurangi Matters

December 17, 2014

Wellsford

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CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

Animals

rurallife

David Haugh, Wellsford Vet Clinic www.vetsonline.co.nz/wellsfordvet

Death by chocolate The festive season is coming and with it, some fine foods. ‘All things in moderation’ is a useful, old adage. Some foods, in excess, do become toxic and because of species differences, our pets are far more sensitive to the poisonous effects of some of our foods. We see more cases of poisoning in dogs than cats … mostly, I would guess, because our feline friends tend to be more discerning about what they actually eat. Toxic levels are worked out on the weight of the animal eating the toxin. As you would expect, the bigger the intake, the more serious the symptoms.

Macadamia nuts are potentially poisonous for dogs. A 20kg dog (for example, a light/medium working dog) would need to eat at least 40g before you would see symptoms such as vomiting, muscle tremors and wobbliness. Walnuts should only be poisonous if they get wet, usually from being wet on the ground before harvesting, and grow a fungus on their surface. Onions, garlic and chives can cause anaemia in dogs – pale, no energy, breathing fast). This poisoning can be accumulative and slow in onset.

Grapes and raisins will cause kidney failure if eaten in big enough quantities. A 20kg dog would probably have to eat at least 420g of grapes or 66g of raisins before seeing any poisoning symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, drinking and urinating lots, shaking and lethargy. Too much caffeine, in coffee and “pick me up” energy drinks, is toxic. The poisoning symptoms are the same as for chocolate. I might expect a 20kg dog would have to drink four cups of “ordinary” coffee before any symptoms were seen.

The chemical in chocolate that can cause poisoning is theobromine. The amount in chocolate varies a lot. As a rule, the darker the chocolate, the higher the theobromine level. It is also found in tea and cola drinks. Cats are about five times as sensitive to the poisoning effects of theobromine as people. Dogs are about three times as sensitive as us. Signs of poisoning start with vomiting, diarrhoea and urinating excessively. But then muscle tremors, a fast and irregular heart and hyperactivity may develop and can end in seizures and death. Depending on the type of chocolate, a 20kg dog would need to eat at least 60g to 192g of chocolate before any symptoms were seen. It would require the ingestion of 1125 to 3600g of chocolate to kill 50 per cent of 20kg dogs!

So don’t submit to those big, brown, pleading eyes with any of the above foods and go easy on the sugary, salty or fatty foods, too. Your dog loves you and your cat sort of likes you just for who you are!

Thank you To all our cusTomers.

The sTaff aT liberTy Park wishes you a merry chrisTmas and haPPy gardening

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localsport

December 17, 2014

Mahurangi Matters

49

Overton tennis title winner Fewer entries than usual didn’t affect the standard of play in the Rodney Junior Tennis Championships, which were held at the Warkworth Club on Sunday November 30.

It was an all Warkworth final in the 14 & Under division, with Sam Overton beating Caleb Wigman 11-3.

Cameron Keates, of Mahurangi East, won the 12 & Under when he beat Warkworth’s Jordon Thomas 9-7 and Raynor Sandford won the 10 &Under by defeating fellow club mate Kane Hume 7-4.

The 12 & Under doubles was won

by Keates/Thomas over Cormac Blennerhassett and Toby Webb, both of Warkworth, in a closely fought match 9-7, while the 10 & Under doubles was won by brothers Matthew and James Elder, of Mahurangi East, in a tie breaker 7-6. However, because Matthew wasn’t a signed up member of the Mahurangi East Club, the brothers had to settle for second place behind Raynor Sandford and Kane Hume.

James, 7, won both his singles matches including defeating his brother 7-5.

Tomarata Rugby Club election Tomarata Rugby Football Club held its annual general meeting on November 25 and elected the following officers: Patron, Alec McQuarrie; president, Gel Atkins; vice president, Gordon Fox; secretary, Dave Donnelly; treasurer, Robert Scott; club captain, Aaron Barnes; senior coach, Alan Te Haara; senior manager, tba; bar manager, Gordon Fox; groundsman, Tony Lenssen; Northland RFU

delegates, Alec McQuarrie & Nick Camel; junior rugby contact, Edwina Came; Tomarata TAG, Tania Healey; club referee, Pat McDonald. The next meeting will be held at the clubrooms on January 27, at 7.30pm. The Tomarata senior team will play in the Northland RFU Second Division competition next year and new players are welcome. Info: www.tomarata. co.nz

Children’s Day funded The Rodney Local Board will contribute $3000 to the Wellsford District Sports & Recreation Collective for a Children’s Day next March. Altogether the Board received 11 event applications in October, requesting total funds of $130,625. Of the six applications that were successful, the only one in the north was the Wellsford collective. An application by Total Sport for $8000 for a Coastal Challenge at Tawharanui in April, was refused. Altogether, the Board allocated just under $14,000.

Totalspan rodney proud sponsors of

ToTalspan Rodney pRoud sponsoRs of

SCOREBOARD THE scorEBoArD A roundup of sports activities and events in the district

Tennis a Roundup of spoRTs acTiviTies in THe disTRicT The annual Otamatea Tennis Tournament, including the coveted Otamatea Singles, will be played at Kaiwaka on Auckland Anniversary weekend, January 24 Rodney pRoud sponsoRs of Info: Grant van Dalsum & 25.ToTalspan Entries welcome for singles, double and combines. on 021 025 70322. Enter at www.kaiwakasports.co.nz soon.

Yachting Yacht centreboard divisionin is THe looking for race coaches of young a Sandspit Roundup ofClub spoRTs acTiviTies disTRicT sailors in Opti, Starlings and lasers, as well as Mahurangi College students in ibus omnimolum their 420s, next year. This is a paid position. Contact Carola Corkill on 027 331 Is quas vendipsantus sint restincti blaborr umquisi muscius idipitae la et qui nus 3162 or syccentreboard@gmail.com autatur sanissit, conseri onsequi denimod magnametur? Qui omnimet as magnima gnihil il ilictati te nam qui blaboria is amusanitio. Nam excepelenis nima con pore etur?

Golf Derum est andia perfernatem fugit qui dit auditi cum eum vendusant volupta quam Warkworth Golf Club annual New Year Open Jan 2. Open to all affiliated players. evelit ipitessum aut ut am.

Book by December 30 on 425 8248. simusci llabo Paddle boarding Ucimporrum lautat rerum renducia voloreiur, comniendel ipis et volorrupta sum voluptatus am eum quis abor aut aut ut dit, nem dolliciurem fugiate moluptus SUP fitness classes at Warkworth ramp Tues &Thurs at 9.30am. Omaha ramp, doluptaquis quosant iorepro volor aut inullab orrovitae eosam, soluptas volore ea delis Tues 6am Fri 6am & Info: matakanasup.co.nz or 027 526 0524 quam, optis erum&faccaborest, cus,9.30am. ommoluptat aliquis di quiam eat arum serianda quiTouch si reptium dolut quo et haruptature parit, officiunt ex eat quatus, que pro optasim tournament oluptat ut restiistrum nit et alitias pietus enihil ium sus.

The Whanaunga Touch Tournament will be held on January 10, at the Kaiwaka oTaTuR SportscoRum Complex – 12 teams, $100 per team of 10 players. Stall sites $20, spot Nonsed exeri occabo. Parciendania sendio omnimus nonet est et qui sae pera prizes and raffles. Info: Cheryl 431 2051 cherylanderson051@gmail.com endipitatur aut expereperum restrum harum atur reperumet dipid millibus vel int occae doloriorumet et excearciis atibusa ntibeati omnihil molut od earum quis del magnis Junior Cricket ma pra volori ipienie niatus plibus quia veniatibus. Illorit as imusam voluptatem sitio Kids’ium cricket coaching, Saturday at Shoesmith Domain, officidel int a consequi nis rae int vidundae mornings perferum nonem corum. from 8.30am. Ages 6 to 11. Info: Hayden 027 212 6004

THE scorEBoArD

gaToTalspan nempeRnaTis

Rodney

List sports news FREE by emailing 229 sTaTe HigHway 1 news@localmatters.co.nz

Ad eic tem reiunt volut porate ped ma non niendi arum eumque.

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50

Mahurangi Matters

December 17, 2014

localmatters.co.nz

Millimetres matter when measuring snapper New cricket nets It is common for fishermen to exaggerate the size of their catch, but fisheries officers are warning that making an error in measuring your fish could land you with a hefty fine.

Fisheries officer Glen Blackwell says a number of local fishermen are bringing in snapper that are just shy of the new 30cm limit.

He says making errors when measuring fish is a common problem and, with a $250 fine for bagging undersized fish, it pays to be precise.

“If you are using a tape measure, make sure you measure on a flat surface.

Even if you are half a centimetre under the limit, you are in trouble. If it looks close to 30cm, play it safe and throw it back.

“When handling undersized fish it is also important to make sure they have the best chance of survival. Always use a wet towel, apply minimum pressure and limit the amount of time the fish is out of the water.”

In April, the snapper limit for the east coast dropped from nine snapper a day to seven and the size limit increased from 27cm to 30cm. On the west coast, the snapper rules are unchanged.

Mr Blackwell says the new regulations have been well publicised and most fisherman are abiding by the new rules.

Officers are out to educate the public, as well as enforce the law, so can be lenient depending on a person’s circumstances.

Thu

Fri

Sat

Dec 18

Dec 19

Dec 20

5:57am 8:36pm

Sun

Moon

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8:54am 9:17pm

5:58am 8:37pm

Best At

B

Auckland Area Sea Watch Matakana Marine Seawatch Sun

Mon

Tue

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Thu

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Sat

Sun

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Wed

Thu

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Dec 21

Dec 22

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Dec 24

Dec 25

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Jan 1

Jan 2

2.7 5:49am 2.8 12:10am 0.8 1:00am 1.0 11:45am 0.9 6:41am 2.9 7:31am 2.8 5:56pm 2.8 12:36pm 0.8 1:26pm 6:49pm 2.9 7:42pm 0.9

5:58am 8:37pm 9:41am 10:05pm

5:58am 8:38pm

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B

10:30am 10:56pm

11:22am 11:50pm

0.6 3.1 0.7 3.0

1:50am 8:20am 2:15pm 8:34pm

5:59am 8:38pm

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Mr Blackwell says that although the practise is legal, fishermen are required to have their nets clearly named and it is illegal for them to be left stranded out of the water at low tide. It is also illegal to use a net longer than 40 metres.

If people have concerns about anyone breaking the rules, including seeing a commercial vessel operating within two nautical miles (3.7km) of the shore, then call the national hotline 0800 4 POACHER (0800 476224).

The Ministry for Primary Industries has an app for fishing limits which can be downloaded from its website. Size and take limits for all common fish are also available by texting the name of the fish to 9889.

“Generally people with one or two fish which are only just under the limit will get away with a warning if they have had no previous offences. However, your details will be taken and if you’re caught again you will be fined.”

There are nine honorary fisheries officers operating in the Mahurangi, and 10 full time fisheries officers in the Auckland area.

“We have target operations on both land and sea throughout the area, so we often have all of the officers operating in one area at any time to check everybody at a site.”

Set netting has been a hot topic recently with Omaha residents unsuccessfully pushing for a ban at the beach.

Wed

2.7 4:53am 1.0 10:52am 2.8 5:02pm 0.9 11:17pm

Cricket nets at Mahurangi College are being refurbished as part of a drive to revive the sport in Rodney.

PE teacher Hamish Cooper says he is trying to take the sport to a higher standard at the school and renewing the ragged nets should help get more students interested.

The refurbishment has been funded by the school board and will be ready by the end of next month for the public to use.

Rodney cricket development manager Kevin Forde has helped reestablish cricket teams in Wellsford and Warkworth for the first time in several years, and a five-side Rodney competition is now up and running.

And players seem to be getting into the spirit. Last month, Kaipara Flats won a historic victory over Whangarei’s City Cricket Club, defeating the team in just one day in the two-day game.

Kaipara batsman Rory Christopherson helped set the innings with a welldeserved 60, supported by Noel Rabbits who notched up a hard earned 52. This partnership allowed Kaipara to declare at 170/8. Kaipara kept up momentum, bowling out City for a record 20 runs in the first innings, forcing them to go into bat again.

The attack was spearheaded by Kyran Dill, who picked up four wickets for five runs, and Matt Taylor got a fivebag for just 12 runs. Kaipara quickly bowled them out again to take the match by an innings and 92 runs.

Fishermen are being advised to measure their catch on a flat surface and throw back anything near the limit.

Dec 17 3:55am 9:56am Tide 4:09pm Times 10:24pm

Fishing Guide

boost enthusiasm

12:18pm

2:38am 9:07am 3:04pm 9:25pm

5:59am 8:39pm

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0.5 3.2 0.6 3.2

6:00am 8:39pm

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12:47am 1:16pm

0.4 3:26am 3.4 9:56am 0.5 3:54pm 3.3 10:16pm

6:00am 8:40pm

Best At

B

1:45am 2:15pm

0.3 4:14am 3.5 10:45am 0.4 4:44pm 3.3 11:06pm

6:01am 8:40pm

Best At

B

2:44am 3:13pm

0.3 5:03am 3.5 11:35am 0.3 5:36pm 3.4 11:57pm

6:01am 8:41pm

Best At

B

3:42am 4:10pm

0.3 5:53am 0.3 12:49am 3.3 1:43am 3.5 12:26pm 3.5 6:47am 0.4 7:43am 0.3 6:28pm 0.4 1:20pm 3.4 2:15pm 7:22pm 0.4 8:18pm 3.3 6:02am 8:41pm

Best At

B

4:38am 5:06pm

6:03am 8:41pm

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B

5:32am 5:59pm

6:25am 6:50pm

2:40am 8:44am 3:12pm 9:16pm

6:03am 8:41pm

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B

3.2 0.6 3.3 0.5

6:04am 8:42pm

Best At

B

7:16am 7:41pm

3.1 3:41am 0.7 9:47am 3.2 4:10pm 0.6 10:16pm

6:05am 8:42pm

Best At

G

8:07am 8:32pm

3.0 4:44am 0.8 10:50am 3.1 5:09pm 0.6 11:16pm

6:06am 8:42pm

Best At

G

8:57am 9:23pm

3.0 5:45am 3.0 0.8 11:49am 0.8 3.1 6:07pm 3.0 0.6 6:06am 8:42pm

Best At

G

9:49am 10:14pm

Best At

G

10:40am 11:06pm

New First Moon Quarter Rise 2:23am Rise 2:57am Rise 3:35am Rise 4:18am Rise 5:07am Rise 6:02am Rise 7:03am Rise 8:08am Rise 9:16am Rise 10:24am Rise 11:32am Set 12:18am Set 12:56am Set 1:33am Set 2:11am Set 2:51am Set 3:34am Set 3:31pm Set 4:30pm Set 5:30pm Set 6:31pm Set 7:31pm Set 8:30pm Set 9:22pm Set 10:12pm Set 10:57pm Set 11:39pm Rise 12:38pm Rise 1:43pm Rise 2:47pm Rise 3:50pm Rise 4:51pm Rise 5:50pm *Not for navigational purposes.

G

Good Fishing

F

Fair Fishing

B

Not So Good

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

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localmatters.co.nz December 17, 2014

Mahurangi Matters

51

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Mahurangi Matters

December 17, 2014

localmatters.co.nz

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localmatters.co.nz December 17, 2014

Mahurangi Matters

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Brown, Ian Joseph

Wendy, Matt, Gabe and extended family, would like to sincerely thank all of you for the love and support you have given us after the sudden loss of Ian. We were overwhelmed by everyone’s kindness with messages, cards, flowers and food and the huge turn-out for his funeral.

We wish to acknowledge those of you we missed speaking with at the funeral or afternoon tea.

Special thanks to the Leigh Volunteer Fire Brigade, Warkworth St Johns and the Orewa Police for their care and compassion and those who made donations to Hospice.

“Our kind, gentle and loving man will be missed forever.”

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Family Fun Scenic farm & forest rides Quiet horses & ponies • Birthday rides Lessons • Suit beginners & experienced riders & people with Disabilities Social, Language & School Groups

Book Now 1hr $45 • 2hrs $80 Phone 09 425 8517



Ph 09 422 0598

FOR LEASE

Matakana Bicycle Hire | 09 423 0076 951 Matakana Road, Matakana info@matakanabicyclehire.co.nz



BILL HARRIS

ACCOMMODATION

53

42 Kaipara Flats Road, Warkworth Google: Horse Riding Warkworth

MARKETS MUSEUM SUMMER MARKETS 1st Saturday of the month, 8am, Old Masonic Hall, Baxter Street, Warkworth.

Enquiries Warkworth 425 8391

PUBLIC NOTICES

BINGO, BINGO, BINGO!

Come and join the fun, 1st Monday of month, Upstairs New Masonic Lodge, Baxter Street, Warkworth, 7pm.

Proceeds to Warkworth Museum.

WarkWorth

Tree Removal • /Chipping Ph Steve 029 7707101 09 425 9966 Ph Steve 029 7707101 09 425 9966 INTERIOR/EXTERIOR

stephen.payne@xtra.co.nz

ROOF PAINTING AND HOUSE WASHING

Husband & wife team. Quality Workmanship. Competitive quotes.

Ph 021 022 08727

Phone 425 9068 or email localmatters@xtra.co.nz to book a classified ad.

HOST FAMILIES

Mahurangi College is looking for Host Families willing to homestay an increasing number of Asian International Students, many of whom are boys, for 2015.

A remuneration is paid.

Preference would be given to those families living in the Warkworth town and Snells Beach/Algies Bay areas.

Those interested are asked to contact the College’s Homestay Co-ordinator on 425 5629.

54

Mahurangi Matters

December 17, 2014

localmatters.co.nz

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING PUBLIC NOTICES

TV SERVICES & SALES

TRANSPORT Warkworth to Albany Senior High/Massey Campus 2015

AERIAL & SATELLITE DISH INSTALLATIONS

Anyone interested in a new private bus run to and from Albany in term time 2015 please contact Kathy on 09 4250378 as there is a group currently looking at options.

NOTICE OF MEETING THE ANNUAL MEETING OF OMAHA BEACH COMMUNITY ( INC)

will be held at Omaha Beach Club, North West Anchorage, Omaha Beach on Sunday - January 4th 2015, at 4pm.

AGENDA 1) Welcome 2) Apologies 3) Confirmation of Minutes of the Annual Meeting held 5th January 2014 4) Receipt of the President’s Report for 2014 5) Receipt of the Annual Accounts for the period ending 31 October 2014 6) Confirmation of the appointment of a Chartered Accountant to conduct a Review Engagement for the period ending 31 October 2015 7) Confirmation of Amount of the Annual Subscription Fee for the 2015 Subscription Year and 2014/15 Security Levy - as recommended by the Committee 8) Election of the Committee for the 2015 year from nominations received in accordance with the Constitution 9) Receipt of Club Reports - Golf - Bowls - Tennis - Surf Club - Outrigger Canoe 10) General Business Trish Jackson - Secretary Omaha Beach Community Inc

TUITION

ALL FREEVIEW INSTALLATIONS Dish, Aerial, Additional Outlet ..

THE TV MAN IS THE ONE! FREE QUOTE Call JIM THE MAINTENANCE MAN 021 254 2048 or visit www. themaintencemanjim.co.nz FREEVIEW TV, Audio, Installation, Faults & Supply. Andrew 021 466 394 or 422 2221.

SITUATIONS VACANT LOCAL WARKWORTH HOSPITALITY BUSINESS LOOKING FOR AN EXPERIENCED & MULTILINGUAL PA / with marketing background both written & verbal / Marketing experience direct Business to Business to relationships w. European tourism operators. Excellent Wordpress & Mailchimp, great organisation skills, a systematic approach & can work to deadlines. Please direct replies to liz@matakanastyle.co.nz SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS WANTED Minimum requirement Class 2, P Endorsement is an advantage. Phone Ian or Kevin 09 425 83 48

WANTED TO BUY

Full & part time courses

Puhoi & Albany Campus

www.hungrycreek.ac.nz

NZQA Reg

CHRISTMAS SERVICES Tomarata Christmas Carols St Francis in the Fields Sunday 21st December, 7pm Wellsford Family Service All Saints, 9.30am Christmas Day, Thurs 25th December All enquiries phone 09 422 2560

The Mahurangi MeThodisT Parish CoMMuniTY

wish you a Joyful & Meaningful Christmas and a Blessed and Fruitful new Year, 2015.

We invite you to join us at any of our Christmas and New Year’s worship services of Celebration and Reflection:

21 December: Christmas Carol service

3pm at Warkworth Methodist Church

24 December: Christmas Eve 8pm at Warkworth Methodist Church

25 December: Christmas Day 9am at Snells Beach Community Church

31 December: New Year’s Eve 11.15pm at Warkworth Methodist Church Sunday services will continue as normal at Snells Beach (9am) and Warkworth (10.30am) For further information contact Parish Office - Phone 425 8660 or Minister - Phone 021 0271 4099

SECURITY

Shearing Extra small flocks 35 yrs exp $

50

Call Out

10 per sheep

$

thereafter

Phone Greg

TV SERVICES & SALES

021 041 2903

TV SERVICES Aerials, Dishes, Freeview sales, installation and service. Extra outlets serving the area for 18 years.

Phone Gavin 027 476 6115.

Email localmatters@xtra.co.nz to book your classified advertising

Warkworth Anglican Parish Christmas Services

Friday 19th December at 6pm Matakana Community Carols outside St. Leonard’s Sunday 21st December at 6pm Nine Lessons and Carols at Christ Church Christmas Eve 7pm Kaipara Flats Carol Service 11.15pm Midnight Service at Christ Church, Church Hill Warkworth Christmas Day Communion Service 8am Christ Church, Warkworth 9.30am Christ Church, Warkworth 9.30am St. Leonard’s, Matakana 9.30am St.Michael and All Angels, Leigh

www.anglican-warkworth.org

CATHOLIC CHURCH

Holyname Catholic Church 6 Alnwick Street, Warkworth Sts Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Puhoi 425 8545 • www.holyname.org.nz

CHRIsTmAs CAROLs 2014

Wednesday 24th Dec – Christmas Eve Warkworth 6.30pm – Puhoi 8.30pm

CHRIsTmAs mAss TImEs 2014 Wednesday 24th Dec – Christmas Eve Warkworth 7pm – Puhoi 9pm Thursday 25th Dec Christmas Day Warkworth 9.30am

There is NO MASS at Puhoi on Christmas Day

Friday 26th Dec – Warkworth 9am Saturday 27th Dec Warkworth 9am Saturday 27th Vigil Mass – Warkworth 6pm Sunday 28th Dec – Puhoi 8.30am

WORK WANTED REID EQUESTRIAN ENGINEERING, Wellsford. Float rebuilds, horse truck conversions, etc. Dog kennels made to measure. Quality work. Ph Ron 423 9666

Nanny & More!

Quality full-time local courses for nanny & childcare careers Call Amanda now for free info!

424 3055 nannyacademy.ac.nz

ANGLICAN PARISH OF WELLSFORD

CASH PAID TOOLS & Machinery, Shed & garage clearouts. All things considered.

Call or txt 021 161 5139.

Contract / Casual / Bouncer /Guard/ Home Service. Nick 021 122 9222

Art, Craft & Jewellery 09 422 0752

Professional Installation of Satellite Dishes and Freeview UHF Aerials.

Wall mount TV Installations, Multi-room Solutions. Audio and Home Theatre. TV Tuning Services.

Phone 425 5431.

ChurchNotices

Check church website

www.mahu.org.nz

for details of December services & activities.

See advert page 31 for Christmas Services.

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

Warkworth – 10.30am

Monday 29th Dec Warkworth 9am Tuesday 30th Dec – Warkworth 5.15pm Wednesday 31st Dec – Puhoi (CPC) building.

Thursday 1st Jan – Warkworth 9am Friday 2nd Jan – Warkworth 11am Saturday 3rd Jan – Warkworth 9am Saturday 3rd Jan Vigil Mass – Warkworth 6pm Sunday 4th Jan – Puhoi 8.30am – Warkworth 10.30am

Sunday Services 9am & 10.30am

2015 GENEVA NORTHLINK HEALTH CALENDARS

$10 EACH

Available from Mahurangi Matters, 17 Neville Street, Warkworth.

Sudoku

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localmatters.co.nz December 17, 2014

what’s on

Part of the largest Liquor Chain in NZ

19 19 20 23 24

Church services, see notices previous page Matakana Christmas Indie market, 5pm-8pm, with Santa Community Carols, St Leonard’s Church, Matakana, 6pm The Blues Bros Tribute Show, Warkworth RSA. Info: 425 8568 Auckland Council rating valuation objection period closes Christmas Carols Service, St Andrew’s Church, Matakana Country Park, 8pm start 24 Christmas Carol Services, Mangawhai Recreational Centre, at 6pm, 8pm and 10pm. Car parking available on the school field 24 Waipu Christmas Parade, 7pm start. Float first prize $1000; best dressed spectator $100 27 Jamie McDell & Jason Kerrison at Mangawhai Tavern (see story p37) 28 Puhoi Farmers Market, 9.30-1pm Info: Phillippa 422 0009 28 to Jan 3 Great Summer Art Exhibition, Mahurangi East Community Centre (see story p20; ad p37) 31-Jan 2 Dimension, The Quantum Expansion, Te Arai. Info: www. phatproductions.net

January 1 1 2 3 3 3 3&4 4 6 10 10

Waipu Games (see stories p28) Warkworth Rodeo, Warkworth Showgrounds SH1, 10am. Adults $20, children $10, families $50 (see stories p25, 26 & 27) Mangawhai Community Gala, Mangawhai Domain. 8.30am to 2pm, $3 for adults, $2 for children. Families $8, parking $8 per car includes entry for occupants. (see story p24) Black Swamp Rod Run. Hot Rod cruise from Mangawhai to Waipu. 10am registration at Mangawhai Beach School carpark. $15 per car. Info: 09 431 3371 Shihad, The Datsuns, I Am Giant and Cairo Knife Fight at Matakana Country Park (see story p30) The Black Seeds, Katchafire and Sons Of Zion at Mangawhai Tavern (see story p20) Shakespeare in the Vines presents Macbeth, Ascension Wine Estate.

Starts 7pm. Tickets $60, dinner and play $105 (see story p24) Omaha Beach Community annual meeting, 4pm (see public notices previous page) Gypsy-brass band Niko Ne Zna at Leigh Sawmill (see story p33) Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival, Puhoi Pub. Free entry (see stories p21, 22 & 23) MatakanaXRun fundraiser for The Puriri Tree Foundation at Military Arts, Matakana Country Park (see story p34)

List your event directly on our new What’s On calendar at localmatters.co.nz/whatson or email to editor@localmatters.co.nz

LET U

S DO Y O

Kowhai Laundry

UR W

ON R I & G N A SHI

ING

• Linen • Picnic rugs • Ironing • Sleeping bags • Beach towels • Campers & Boaties laundry Dry Cleaning Agents

FESTIVE GRAND CHRISTMAS OPENING! CHEERS! Part of the largest Liquor Chain in NZ

See What’s On at localmatters.co.nz for a full list of upcoming events

December

55

Mahurangi Matters

Hours - Mon-Fri 8am-5pm • Sat 9am-1pm 13 Neville St, Warkworth Phone 09 425 9775

Jameson 1L

Martineau Brandy 1L Wild Moose Canadian Whisky 1L

Jim Beam bourbon 1750ml

Chivas Regal 700ml

Bombay Sapphire Gin 1L

Russian Standard Vodka 1L

Won’t be hard to Spot Teachers

Lindauer Special Reserve

Jack Daniels 1L

Whisky 1L

Canterbury Cream 700ml

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6.99

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Te Hana Sparkling

Steinlager Pure 330ml 15s

21.99

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NZ Pure 330ml NZ pure Summer Ale 330ml

Jim Beam Black 8% 330ml

19.99

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Woodstock 8% 4pk

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Smirnoff Ice Double Black 7% 335ml Bottles

Steinlager Classic 330ml 18s

32.99

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.99

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Black Heart / Cruiser 330ml 12s

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KING HITS

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Part of the

Specials valid until 31 December 2011. All specials may not be available in some stores. Specials only available at Liquor Spot Stores detailed above. No Trade Sales.

Lion Red, Cody’s 7% Cans Speights, 18pk Summit, Waikato, 330ml Bottles 15s

Heineken Steinlager Classic 330ml Bottles 15s Bottles 24s

$34.99

$27 .99

$20.99

$27.99

ea

5 DAYS ONLY Tuesday 9th December - Saturday 13th December Cantebury Cream 750ml

2 for $21.99

Smirnoff 1L

Gordons 1L

$46.99

Jim Beam 1750ml

$58.99

Moet & Chandon Champagne

$64.99 Jack Daniels & Cola 375ml Cans 10pk

$23.99 Export Citrus Grapefruit Bottles 12s

Teachers 1L

$32.99

Jack Daniels 1L

Cruiser 5% 275ml Bottles 12pk

$13.99

$19.99

$18 .99

$34.99

$46.99

ea

Smirnoff Double Black Cans 12pk

$22.99

Woodstock 7% 330ml Cans 6pk

Woodstock 6% 420ml Cans 4pk

2 for

$24.99

DB Draught/Export Gold /Tui Bottles 15s

Jagermeister 700ml

Chivas Regal 700ml OR Jameson

$51.99

Desperados 330ml 6pk

Jim Beam 7% Cans 8pk

Chatelle 1L

$34.99

$46.99

$33.99

$33.99

Johnnie Walker Black Label 12YO 700ml

Appletons 1L

2 for

$19.99

Desperados 330ml Bottles 6pk

$20.99 ea $17.99

WELLSFORD LIQUOR SPOT

133 RODNEY ST, WELLSFORD | 09 423 7913

Specials valid until 31 December 2014. All specials may not be available in some stores.

Specials only available at Liquor Centre Stores detailed above. No Trade Sales.

$13.99 Part of the

56

Mahurangi Matters

December 17, 2014

localmatters.co.nz

Court upgrade commemorates century of tennis More than a century of tennis was marked in Pakiri on Sunday December 7 when the community celebrated the resurfacing of two courts beside the school.

About 60 residents and visitors gathered for the occasion, which began with a blessing by Jake Tahitahi.

Local identity and tennis enthusiast Joy Greenwood and four-year-old Joe Cooper cut ribbons, on either side of the courts, to officially declare the complex open.

Joy then challenged Ivan Gravatt to the first match on the new tiger turf surface.

Pakiri Tennis Club president Dudley Cooper said it was only 12-months ago that the community agreed that the choice was either do the courts up or abandon them completely.

“The old asphalt was full of humps, bumps and hollows,” he said.

The club started by rebuilding its membership and then successfully applied for grants from the ASB Community Trust, the Rodney Local Board and the Lotteries Commission. Altogether, the refurbishment cost $42,000 with the community pitching in to fix the fence and clean-up the surrounding area, and fundraise for other incidentals.

Dudley said the first courts in Pakiri were lawn tennis courts, beside the church.

“We’re not sure when they were built, but they were being used in 1904,” he said. “The land, where the present courts stand, was purchased for £50 and the courts were opened in 1914.”

A memory board on the side of the new clubhouse recalled the victories and defeats of early players representing well-known sporting families such as the Dunnings, Greenwoods, Gravatts, Mathesons, Biorklunds, Harpers and Wyatts, when the day always finished with supper.

In keeping with tradition, the Pakiri tennis court opening this month finished “with a sumptuous dinner in the hall which was enjoyed by all”.

Suri Watene takes centre court in Pakiri.

Pioneer Pakiri families were present at the opening.

Joy Greenwood opens the new courts.

For a full range of family health care, including A&M services in an integrated system 24 hours per day, across our region, including public holidays For further information and new enrolments, please contact any of our clinics Wellsford 220 Rodney St (Cnr. SH1 & Matheson Rd) 09 423 8086 ALSO AFTER HOURS Snells Beach 145 Mahurangi East Road 09 425 6666

Matakana 74 Matakana Valley Road 09 422 7737 Mangawhai 4 Fagan Place 09 431 4128

Maungaturoto 138 Hurndall Street 09 431 8576 Paparoa 1877 Paparoa Valley Road 09 431 7222

Wellsford Birthing Unit

Full 2 bedroom birthing and post natal care facility with your own LMC & Registered Nurses 24/7 in attendance. Birthing pool, FREE baby car seat with admission.

218 Rodney St, Wellsford Health Centre, Wellsford • Enquiries Admin 09 423 8745

PHONE 09 423 8086 FOR 24/7 AFTER HOURS URGENT SERVICE