Mahurangi Matters_Issue 198_1 March 2012

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1 March 2012

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

MAF oversees second termite eradication

Hockey trust representatives, from left, Viv Wyatt, Brett Illingworth and Jeremy Saunders with Rodney Local Board member June Turner are relieved to finally put a spade in the ground on the site of the new Warkworth hockey turf.

The eradication of a small population of an introduced Australian termite is underway on a property in Point Wells.

The Australian subterranean termite Coptotermes acinaciformis was found in a single house and garden in early January, and is now under treatment with the aim of full eradication. It is the second time the termite has been discovered at Pt Wells.

Australian subterranean termites are slow to spread and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) is confident that the infestation is limited to this one property.

MAF response manager Abi Loughnan says the termite is a wood-boring insect which can damage any untreated continued page 3

Earthworks finally start on hockey Inside this issue fields after years of Council delay TOSSI turns 10

4 page centre pullout

Work has started on the long-awaited development of the hockey turf, at the Warkworth Showgrounds.

While Auckland Council funding playing surface, fence, goals and any the trust has already received several will pay for the field foundation, other facilities. This is likely to cost pledges, but wanted to see work start before it went to the community or the Warkworth Hockey Turf Trust between $400,000 and $500,000. will have to find the money for the Hockey chair Brett Illingworth says continued page 2

off the drawing board this month . . . .

Graham Sawell • Architectural Designer

Fresh perspectives

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Mahurangi College Newsletter – pages 36 & 37

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“There are three forms of visual art; Painting is art to look at, sculpture is art you can walk around, and architecture is art you can walk through” – Dan Rice

visit Mahurangi Matters online at www.localmatters.co.nz

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9 Falls St • Warkworth

2 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

Mahurangimatters is a locally owned publication, circulated Hockey fields Issue 198

twice a month to more than 12,200 homes and businesses.

Next issue is March 14 Following issue is April 4 – Advertising deadline March 21

Enquiries: ph 425 9068 • fax 425 9088 • PO Box 701, Warkworth 0941

17 Neville Street (corner Neville & Alnwick Streets) Warkworth

localmatters@xtra.co.nz • www.localmatters.co.nz Editor: Jannette Thompson • ph 425 9068 • editor@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Cathy Busbridge • ph 431 4966 • advertising@localmatters.co.nz Views expressed in Mahurangi Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers.

All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission of the editor is prohibited.

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Shoesmith Domain,” she says. “But when the sport moved from grass to turf fields, around 1990, we formed the Mahurangi Club and went to the North Harbour competition. A local hockey turf will mean a lot of people who can’t afford the time or the expense of travelling to North Harbour will be able to play locally.

“All other associations who have developed turf fields have increased numbers dramatically.”

The new turf will be built on the number four rugby field and is expected to be finished ahead of next year’s hockey season.

Sports enthusiasts in Warkworth hope this marks the beginning of the longawaited showgrounds redevelopment, which could eventually include a multi-purpose aquatic centre.

The association is keen to attract people to help with its fundraising, as well as new committee members, managers and supporters.

Info: Contact secretary Gemma Bartlett on 423 7934, or Brett Illingworth on 425 9148.

Briefs Intersection design yet to be confirmed

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funding agencies for help.

“There’s been too many false starts – we wanted to make sure that this time it was really going to happen before approaching sponsors and donors, or committing to a fundraising programme,” he says.

Auckland Council has set aside $614,000 over the next two years to develop the showgrounds and most of the money will be spent on earthworks for the hockey turf – one field initially, with provision for a second field in future.

Brett says one of the first fundraising events planned will be a fun hockey tournament for all ages.

The new field will cater for senior and junior hockey players from throughout the Warkworth/Wellsford area, as well as golden oldies players.

Mahurangi Hockey Club founding member Maree Todd, who still plays, says she doesn’t believe people realise how important the new turf will be to reinvigorating the sport locally.

“We used to have women’s teams from Kaipara, Tomarata, Matakana, Omaha and Warkworth all playing at

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Auckland Transport has advised that a decision on road improvements at the intersection of Mill Lane and Neville Street in Warkworth will be announced soon. The former Rodney District Council granted the original resource consent for the Warkworth Countdown Supermarket development, which included a roundabout on the intersection. A Progressive Enterprises spokesperson says they are awaiting a decision from Auckland Transport about what traffic management design it wants to implement at that intersection. “We’re told a decision is imminent,” he said.

Puhoi field concerns Community concerns at the state of the Puhoi soccer field were raised at a recent Rodney Local Board meeting by board member June Turner. She said residents were very upset that promised improvements had not eventuated. Parks officer Chris Burgess said some of the problem stemmed from the fact that it was a basic field that was being over-used. Its condition was tagged to how much winter rain was received plus there had been extra damage caused by the recent show, he said. The board was told that efforts were being made to secure $40,000 to address the issues, through the Rural Townships legacy fund.

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Warkworth Town Hall

debate

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 3

Keep up-to-date with developments and have your say at

www.localmatters.co.nz

Rating not an impediment The town hall’s Historic Places Trust Category 1 rating is based on the fact that it is a rare Australasian example of construction using glazed hollow stoneware blocks. It is linked with a strong tradition of technological innovation in 19th and early 20th-century Warkworth. For an alternative view on the future of the town hall, see Guy Scholefield’s piece on Page 15.

Invitation to debate town hall future The community will have an opportunity to have its say on the future of the Warkworth Town Hall soon.

The Rodney Local Board has adopted LTP closing on March 23. order of $30,000 to $35,000. a business case, which proposes a two- Meanwhile, the Rodney Women’s “Our services have been based at week consultation period starting on Centre – one of two Town Hall tenants the Town Hall for 26 years and are March 16. who have been ordered to vacate the hall essential, and we don’t want to see them The public is likely to be presented with by the end of this month – is struggling lost to the community,” Colleen said. four options, including an estimate of to meet the eviction deadline. Centre Board member June Turner asked the costs associated with each option. coordinator Colleen Julian addressed if there was any possibility of the These are being developed by Auckland the board at its meeting on February 13 deadline being extended. In response, Council’s specialists in heritage, urban to support an application for emergency Tracey Martin said she did not want the liability for anyone being harmed design and built form, and will be funding to assist the centre relocate. presented in an information pack.

She said although a suitable house, or hurt. Board member Steve Garner Board member June Turner says the near the town centre, had been said he would be concerned if the board is seeking as much feedback identified, it was unlikely that it board “turfed” the Women’s Centre as possible on the town hall, so that could be brought up to Council and out just for the sake of a month. it can formulate its submission to workplace health and safety standards “It’s about the roof,” Tracey said. “Nothe Auckland Council Long Term by the March 31 eviction deadline. one has been up there to see what state Plan. The timetable is short, with the The cost of alterations to make it it is in and we just can’t take the risk.” statutory consultation period on the suitable for the centre would be in the Read this story in full at localmatters.co.nz

Termite eradication underway timber including live trees. It has been recently found in Otorohonga and Nelson, and successfully eradicated.

“Both of these infestations and the Point Wells case are likely to have come into NZ in imported hardwood timber such as railway sleepers and power poles in the 1990s.

“MAF identified issues with fumigation and addressed these at the time and is confident current border controls prevent any new termite incursions.”

Eradication of the termite has started at Point Wells, which involves setting

insecticide bait either underground or on wooden surfaces in tamper-proof containers. The bait is only being used on the one affected property and around the boundary with neighbouring properties.

“There are monitoring stations in place on neighbouring properties to ensure we pick up any spread. This insect can move via underground tunnelling so this is why we check the garden and boundaries.”

Dr Loughnan says the bait is targeted at termites and poses no risk to people or their pets.

from page 1 “This treatment is highly effective, and will be followed by a monitoring phase over five years to confirm no further termite activity. If no further termites are found, then we can be confident that the eradication programme has been successful.

The owner of the home is working closely with MAF throughout this operation.

For further information, including a downloadable fact sheet with images, see www.biosecurity.govt.nz/pests/ australian-subterranean-termite

A claim that restoring the Warkworth Town Hall will be costly because of its Category 1 heritage listing has been rejected by Historic Places heritage advisor for architecture Robin Byron.

“It’s wrong to think that just because it is an important heritage building for Warkworth, that somehow that means it can’t be adapted and changed to make it relevant and functional,” she says. “The last thing the trust wants is a building that is shut up and empty.

“We’re very receptive to buildings being adapted, providing the heritage values are respected, and this doesn’t necessarily mean spending a lot of money.”

Ms Byron said however, that the fact that the hall had been neglected for some time would be a factor in potential costs.

“The former Council did very little in terms of upkeep on the building but it’s heartening to see that the present Council has commissioned a Conservation Plan which will assess the hall’s values and direct any changes or modifications. The present activity around community consultation, Local Board involvement and possible grant options all seems very positive.”

Ms Byron says the trust can remove buildings from its register if they have become derelict or their heritage values have been diminished. However, it doesn’t happen often. Neither was she in favour of the glazed bricks being used for any other purpose.

“The town hall was a prodigious building in its day and if it is properly attended to, then I think it can be brought back to life in a very positive way.

“Places of ‘significance’ aren’t always architecturally beautiful. In Warkworth, we are talking about a collection of lovely old buildings that contribute significantly to the town’s uniqueness.”

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OFF THE RECORD

Less is more

FEEDBACK Prostate view misunderstood I was disappointed to read Warren Agnew’s letter about prostate screening in your last issue (MM Feb 14). Mr Agnew was responding to my article ‘prostate screening options’. To get immediately to the point – he is incorrect in assuming that I am against testing men using the PSA blood test.

In fact the very opposite is true. My personal opinion is that testing is a wise choice, and indeed I have happily provided testing with the back-up of appropriate advice and support for many years.

My article examined the reasons why there is not a New Zealand national screening programme at the present time. On this matter, I did not express an opinion but reviewed the background to the debate. We strive to provide impartial and helpful advice in our health columns. Other readers have told me they found the ‘Prostate’ article to be one of the most useful and relevant.

Dr Stephen Barker, Warkworth

Misleading advice I was disappointed to read an article published in the Local Matters e-newsletter on February 21 (now available at www.localmatters.co.nz), regarding my presentation to the Local Board on 13 February. Comments made by the board’s relationship manager who first stated that the Centre only had a month-by-month tenure and their relocation was not the

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

board’s problem, and then went on to say “We (Council) have put options to them (Women’s Centre) but they’re not particularly interested in looking at them” she said. “Their (Women’s Centre) requirement for ‘exclusive use’ is the problem. Technically they are a commercial business, even though they’re a community service.”

To put the record straight, I have endeavoured to attend a Local Board meeting to clarify the status of the Women’s Centre but have been advised they don’t have time to hear me. So, for the record and to provide clarification on this matter, our legal status is that of an Incorporated Society with charitable status with the Charities Commission. The Centre does not sell any services at commercial rates.

The Centre has been incorporated under the Incorporated Societies Act 1908 since 11 June 1988. Therefore, by definition, we are not a commercial business as you cannot have charitable status and operate commercially.

We offer social services to this community and the wider Rodney area and rely entirely on funding through various sources to deliver these services, often at no or low cost.

Whether you agree with the services we deliver or not, it is a factual reality that we meet a need in our community.

The Women’s Centre has been operating successfully providing support services solely on the basis of donation/community funding for 26 years and continues to receive funding

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to deliver these services.

The need for ‘exclusive use’ is common sense as many of our clients require confidentiality; we hold confidential records and in accordance with the Privacy Act these must be kept in a locked safe.

Our CYF contract stipulates this also. It is entirely unsuitable to share an open community hall space with members of the public with the expectation that we can continue to deliver our services, to the required standard, as suggested by Council staff.

It is disappointing that the Local Board has been misinformed regarding our status and as a result have formed opinions about our commercial status that seem to have resulted in a decision not to assist the Centre with the physical costs associated with our need to move premises at such short notice.

Colleen Julian Women’s Centre Rodney Inc

Video thanks Thank you so much for advertising the fact that Tracey Martin’s maiden speech was available on your website. I had missed it on TV and it would have been a loss not to have heard it. What an excellent speech and I look forward to her contribution to Parliament.

Elise Macdonald Whangateau More feedback next page

No, this isn’t the sad case of a recession-hit cyclist. A wheel and a seat was all that Palmerston North’s Ethan Persson needed to get around town when visiting his Warkworth grandfather John Levorsen recently.

If cycling’s eco-friendly, this must be eco-romance. Forget carbon footprint, you’ll be lucky to find even a tyre track.

Dodgy love deal Gotta love businesses for trying to get in on Valentine’s Day. One online daily deal site claimed a guy would propose to his girlfriend via their website … “so this Valentine’s Day you can click on and support their marriage” (woohoo).

But, shonky marketing aside, had the potential groom thought this through?

While website “hits” might be good for the business, inviting strangers to hit on your girlfriend before she’s even said “yes” seems a risky strategy.

Um … let’s just guess While Auckland Council Property Ltd was congratulated by the Rodney Local Board for its well-prepared engagement plan, board members had a field day pointing out the many deficiencies in the property list which, for instance, had Ahuroa and Mahurangi East Road, both in Whangaparaoa. The Council officer conceded that a lot of the old Council records “weren’t all that hot” so a lot of addresses were just “assumed”.

Necessity is …

When it comes to a morning cuppa, don’t mess with the boys at the Warkworth Museum. A power outage recently looked like putting a dampener on the morning tea. That was until the workshop volunteers stoked up the old wood stove (enveloping the museum in smoke) and put the billy on to boil.

Later they were reminded that the museum did, in fact, have a gas top.

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FEEDBACK

continued

Shame on the board Shame on the Rodney Local Board for employing the tactic of using a ‘workshop’ to discuss the large funding shortfall for Rodney projects so as to exclude the public and the media (MM Feb 14). This is a matter of public interest that affects all Rodney residents and we, as ratepayers, should be kept fully advised of developments in this area. They seem to have forgotten that they were elected by the ratepayers and that they are therefore beholden to the ratepayers of Rodney.

Sir Humphrey is certainly alive not just in Rodney but in the whole of New Zealand. His mind set exists at all levels of the Public Service – both

nationally and locally. Public servants do not act in the service of the public but seem to run things according to their own particular agenda, whilst the Government (and Council) of the day seemingly just appear to put a coat of paint (blue or red) over the results of the behind-the-scenes machinations and manipulations of the public service. Public servants both at government and local levels seem to forget, or ignore, the fact that they are paid by us through the taxes including rates that we have to pay and that they should in theory, at least, be working in our best interests. Thank you for raising this issue.

Shaun Wilkinson, Warkworth

Birds before dogs in Rodney A suggestion that summer restrictions on dogs on beaches should be lifted on March 1, instead of March 31 as proposed in a new city-wide Draft Policy and Bylaws on Dogs, has been rejected by Rodney Local Board.

Dog Friends, an Orewa-based group as the NZ dotterel,” she said. “The last representing dog owners, addressed thing we want are dogs, off the leash, the February 13 board meeting asking chasing these birds when they might for Rodney’s support for the earlier be nesting or raising their young.” finishing date. Representative Jill Board member Warren Flaunty said Parsons said there was no good reason March was one of the best months for to let the ban run until March 31. families to be out on the beach and he “Schools are back and lifting the ban couldn’t see any reason to support the earlier would not jeopardise the safety ban being lifted earlier. of beach users,” she said.

The Rodney board voted against However, board member June Turner supporting a submission calling said her concern was for the shorebirds for the early lifting of the summer of Rodney. restrictions, which was supported by “We have numerous bird colonies, the local boards from Hibiscus and particularly on east coast beaches, and Bays, Kaipatiki, Devonport-Takapuna these include endangered species such and Upper Harbour.

A day to celebrate women Women’s health campaigner and Auckland councillor, Sandra Coney will speak at a fundraising dinner on March 8 celebrating International Women’s Day. Cr Coney will speak on the topic of feminism in the 21st century. The dinner has been organised by the Hibiscus Coast Council of Women and Hestia Women’s Refuge Rodney and will be held at the Hibiscus Coast Retirement Village.

Tickets are $40. International Women’s Day reflects on women’s progress in society, and is an opportunity to call for change and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women. The day has been recognised since in the early 1900s. Info: Julie Walker 424 3121.

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think global n COM M U N I T Y I N AC TI ON

act local

Walkway advocates want Te Muri vehicle free

Sh 1

The appeal of a planned coastal walkway, linking Waiwera and Mahurangi West, could be compromised if an Auckland Council roading proposal is allowed to proceed.

Representatives of Mahurangi Action Inc, formerly the Friends of Mahurangi, have invited Rodney Local Board members to walk a section of the pathway so they can appreciate firsthand the spectacular nature of the area.

Group acting secretary Cimino Cole says there is an assumption by Council parks’ policy makers that a road must The Te Muri coastal walkway skirts around important shorebird breeding be developed from the end of Hungry grounds, and takes in farmland and native bush. The Mahurangi Action Group Creek Road, through the former recently organised a supporters walk through the area. Photo, Craig Powell.

Schiska farm, to Te Muri, to justify PROPOSED MAHURANGI COASTAL TRAIL the $15 million paid to purchase for the the farm. However, he says allowing MAHURANGI ACTION INCORPORATED PROPOSED 12m FOOTBRIDGE vehicle access will take away a lot of the remote appeal of the area.

“My understanding is that the current EXISTING WALKWAY farm lease has a further five years to run so nothing is likely to happen in NEW WALKWAY ALIGNMENT the immediate future,” he says. “The TO BE CONFIRMED approach to the Rodney board is just the beginning of the discussion process.”

300m APPROX This is a process that Mr Cole imagines will be fairly involved given the new PROPOSED BRIDGE (see dwg 02) Council arrangements.

The group is proposing that access be provided via a walkway. The proposed path will offer several walking options.

EXISTING WALKWAY The gentlest route will cover six kilometres, crossing both the Waiwera and Puhoi Rivers and three saddles.

The longest route will add a further KEY EXISTING TRAIL four kilometres, taking in additional PROPOSED TRAIL coastal areas.

The proposal will also involve become one of the real gems of Te for a coastal road, which would have construction of a 300m walking bridge Araroa. It would also encourage visitors linked Wenderholm to Ngarewa Road, across a narrow section of the Puhoi to stay longer in the area, which would at the end of Mahurangi West Road.

River. Mr Cole says the group hopes have economic spin-offs for both Puhoi However, attitudes towards coastal that the Te Araroa national pathway will and Waiwera businesses.” roads changed and the plan was eventually include the Te Muri walkway The area has been the focus of a number dropped. Twenty-five years ago, an on its route. of plans over the years. Mr Cole says ARC plan to build a 4000 capacity “Some of the views along the walkway the land on the northern side of the carpark across the Te Muri estuary was are absolutely stunning and it could Puhoi River was originally purchased scuttled by community opposition. d Nor ther n Gatew ay Toll Roa

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Kokako celebrate The annual Kokako Celebration Week at Tiritiri Matangi Island will be held from March 7 to 11. Late last year, 10 artists/artisans spent a day on the island with the kokako team. They were able to observe the birds closely and record their observations. Artworks created during the project will be exhibited and on sale on the island during the Kokako Celebration Week and all profits will go to supporting kokako conservation work. Artists involved in the project included Bob Steiner, Jane Aldridge, Ingrid Anderson, Celia Allison and Kay Milton. A jazz and blues concert will be held on Saturday March 10.

Info: www.tiritirimatangi.org.nz

Urban tree course A course focusing on the value of trees in the urban environment will be run by The Tree Council, at the Sustainable Living Centre, New Lynn, starting Wednesday March 14. A council spokesperson says the issue is increasingly important with the changes in urban tree protection legislation, and with relentless development pressure on urban land. The evening and weekend course will be delivered in eight sessions, divided into classroom work and field trips. Sessions will include new tree regulations, tree identification, structure and function, environmental value of trees, heritage trees, tree adaptation and selection, health, disease and pruning, and tree planting, maintenance and management. Info: Sherylle Scott, 09 523 1647 or 021 652316; or Mels Barton 021 2137779 or email thetreecouncil@ihug.co.nz Are you following us on facebook and twitter?

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Cats and the environment

There are an estimated two million cats in New Zealand. They can be grouped into three categories – domestic cats are almost entirely dependent on humans for their needs, in return for their companionship; stray cats are unowned but have their needs for shelter, warmth and food indirectly met by people; and feral cats, are those that live independently and receive no human support. There are about 900,000 companion cats in this country and about 50 percent of homes own at least one cat, compared with 25 percent of homes with dogs. Those who have a pet cat appreciate the love, company, warmth and wit that a cat possesses.

It’s hard to be untouched by a kitten’s soft playfulness and vulnerability.

However, the dangers cats pose to wildlife, and the conflict sometimes caused by cats’ visits to hunt or toilet in others’ gardens, are unresolved issues. A cat can kill an average of 20 birds a year, or more on lifestyle blocks and farms. They can be helpful for vermin management. However, unlike some pest control methods, cats are indiscriminate in their selection of prey. A University of Otago study found that half the cats in their research actively hunted about 42 different prey items. These included mice, rats, blackbirds, sparrows, native birds including fantails, wax eyes and tuis, lizards, invertebrates, frogs, and stoats and rabbits. The cats studied had a range of about 400m and between 2.6 and 26.1 hectares. A few cats brought back most of the prey, and some cats seemed to specialise in certain types of animals.

The different standards applied to cat versus dog management sometimes lead to calls for a wider debate about the role of cats in the environment. Dog registration is mandatory; there are limits to the number of dogs you’re allowed to own; it’s unacceptable for dogs to wander onto others’ property; and you should clean up if your dog has fowled in a public place. But cat ownership is unlimited; cats know no boundaries; and can use neighbours’ gardens as a dirt box, with seeming impunity. A bird lover’s pet-free garden can provide ripe pickings for a neighbour’s cat.

In some parts of Australia, cats must be confined at night to protect native wildlife. The SPCA also recommends keeping cats indoors after dark for the cat’s sake – to avoid being killed by cars or being caught in pest control traps, especially in rural areas. At best, all cats should be desexed to avoid unwanted litters and exponential population growth. Bells and bibs can also be fitted to cats to give birds a chance of flight when a cat is on the prowl, though these are not totally effective. Cat-free eco-subdivisions are increasing where environmental values are particularly high. These issues are worth further debate in New Zealand, whether it’s about cat welfare, or the environmental value of birds and reptiles.

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Stephanie Hazard sailor

On December 22, Yachting New Zealand announced the first 12 sailors selected to sail for New Zealand in this year’s London Summer Olympics.

On the list was Stephanie Hazard, 22, of Matakana, who will skipper the first-ever NZ Women’s Olympic Match Racing Team. Stephanie will sail alongside team mates Susannah Pyatt, 21, from the North Shore and Jenna Hansen, 25, from Whangarei. She told editor Jannette Thompson that the realisation that she was indeed heading to the Games took several weeks to sink in, but now she was spending every hour of every day getting in the best shape possible for her Olympic campaign …

The Olympics is the pinnacle of all sporting events and it’s always been a dream that one day I would get to compete there. Olympic Gold is as good as it gets and it just feels amazing to think we have a shot at maybe standing on the winner’s podium while they play the NZ anthem. It’s all going to boil down to how well we prepare and who sails best on the day. Susannah, Jenna and I have been sailing together for about 18 months. Our best performance as a team was when we came fifth in Palma, Spain, in the ICF World Cup – the circuit for all the top Olympic sailing countries in our class. Placing fifth gave us a great boost in confidence – it showed us that we could do it. Then last December we placed ninth in the World Match Racing Championship in Perth, with NZ finishing eighth overall. There were 29 teams in the regatta and honestly, the racing was really, really tight. With match racing at the Olympics, there won’t be any real clear-cut favourites, although the Americans and the British are always strong contenders. Mum and Dad have already booked their flights and it’s going to be great to have them there – I’m so lucky to have such a supportive family.

Match racing is a fairly intense 18 minutes of sailing, which involves two boats going head-to-head. We race in the six-metre Elliott 6, a NZ-designed boat, and all boats are supplied by the regatta, which keeps things pretty even.

There’ll be a single round robin, with quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals.

It’s a great spectator sport, because the racing is fast and close, and the winner is often the team that makes the fewest mistakes. We’ll be sailing at Weymouth, about three hours south of London, for almost the duration of the Games, starting on July 29 and finishing with the final race on August 11. Our practice schedule means we won’t even be able to attend the opening ceremony, which is a bit of a shame.

This is the first time match racing has been included in the Olympics and will possibly be the only time, as we know already that it isn’t on the list for Brazil in 2016. So there’s a certain sense that this is a one-off opportunity.

Yachting NZ was the first sports body

to announce its Olympic team and it’s a real boost to have achieved early selection. It means that instead of training to reach peak performance to gain selection, we can now just focus our training entirely on peaking at the Olympics. Our schedule is pretty tight from now on in. We’ve got two trips to overseas competitions and trainings before July – in France and Spain this month (March) and then in Weymouth and Sweden in June. At this stage of training, it’s about refining the lessons we’ve learned, putting it together and then putting it through some test runs at Weymouth. It’s only natural to feel nervous in the lead-up to a race, but it’s how you use the nerves and control them that counts. I try to remember that our opponents are probably just as nervous; all we have to do is sail well and do what we know we can do. There are a lot of set moves in match racing and when you’re on the course, a lot of the sailing happens automatically.

So the things that we concentrate on are the breeze, the course geometry and where the other boat is. You’re anticipating what moves the other boat might make and how you will respond.

Since the announcement, the level of preparation has definitely picked up.

We were back into boot camp at 7am on January 2, because obviously fitness is a big part of our preparation. We work out with a trainer from Monday to Friday doing up to three hours of strength and cardio at the Millenium gym. We’ve been on a rough dietary plan for the past year with lots of protein and carbohydrates, and plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, but what we eat and when we eat is now getting more specific. We eat a lot of food, but always seem to be hungry! The team’s total weight can’t be any heavier than 204kg, which is roughly 68kg per sailor. It terms of sailing, you want to be as close to that 204kg mark as possible because it makes it easier to counterbalance the heel from the wind. Most teams have more trouble getting up to the maximum. The training schedule is pretty rigid and doesn’t allow much time for anything else. I manage to catch-up with a few friends for coffee or a meal occasionally, but I can’t afford to

go out partying; not when I’m getting up at 6am to be at the gym by 7am.

You have to love what you’re doing otherwise you couldn’t be as dedicated and focused as you need to be.

The one thing about sailing is that it’s never boring. When you’re racing, you’re pushing to get the best out of your boat, the conditions and especially yourself. There are all sorts of factors that you have to take into account so you have to be able to think quickly and stay calm. Any added pressure at being the skipper really depends on the team.

Out on the water, we’ve all got our jobs to do – I steer the boat and it’s always the skipper who has the final call. We sail most days out of Westhaven, but as the only campaigning women’s match racing team in NZ, it’s hard to get competition so we often train against the different teams. Our programme also involves lots of meetings to talk about tactics, sports psychology, gym instruction, sponsorships and nutrition. Sponsorship is always a big issue – last year we struggled financially and even for the Olympics, we’re still about $15,000 short.

I guess you could say I come from a sailing family on my Dad’s side – mostly recreational but some have done a little ocean racing. My parents (Bernadette and Nick) are Kiwis who like to travel. I was born in Australia, but we were living in Tanzania when I first jumped into a

boat on my own when I was about nine.

We came to live in Matakana a couple of years later and I started sailing with the Sandspit Yacht Club. My younger brothers, David and Paul, and I were all in racing teams at Mahurangi College.

We’d go to championships all over NZ and some of those school sailing trips stand out as some of the best times ever at school. Both the club and the school sailing competitions played a key role in developing my skills as a sailor – through the school sailing programme I learned the tactical stuff, while the club introduced me to competition racing. For anyone thinking of sailing, you couldn’t have a better introduction to the sport.

I’m not really giving too much thought to ‘after’ the Olympics, as it’s enough just to worry about everything that needs to be accomplished ‘before’ the Olympics. But, I guess it will involve finishing the mechanical engineering degree, which I am just a little over half way through at Auckland University.

After that, who knows? But, whatever it is, I know it will involve sailing.

Readers can follow Stephanie and the team’s progress at Koru Match on Facebook.

In Beijing in 2008, board sailor Tom Ashley brought home one of the three gold medals won by NZ. The other golds were won by Georgina and Caroline Evers-Swindell in rowing, and Valerie Vili, for women’s shot put.

10 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

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Why I love the North

Earlier this month, I had the chance to spend the best part of a day with the people of the North. The highlight was a Mayor in the Chair on the main street of Wellsford. Of course, it’s not just the main street of Wellsford, it’s also the gateway to Auckland from the north. It’s also the capital of one of our most important rural areas, somewhere we want to work hard to protect.

I was impressed with the spirit shown by the people who waited in line to ask questions or let me know their views on a whole host of issues. As with just about everything in the new Auckland, we can never do as much as we want in the North but I am determined we will do what we can. That is made much easier by the goodwill of the people and their determination to ensure that their part of Auckland gets a fair share of the cake.

Again it’s all about balance and fairness. And a great example of this is rates. Let’s be clear, it wasn’t Len Brown or Penny Webster or anyone else on the Auckland Council who decided to create one Auckland. We had no say in that. We also had no say in the decision to impose a single rating system based on capital value.

Those decisions were all made in Wellington. What we can do is ensure that rates will be kept as low as possible – a 3.6 percent average with no residential, lifestyle or rural ratepayer paying more than 10 percent despite the new system.

One of the people who talked to me in Wellsford described it as the Otara of the North. Now I’m a son of Otara and I am very proud of what has been achieved there. But I think I know what they mean. For most travellers, Wellsford is just the last pit stop before Northland. That is not my aspiration for Wellsford or the North. Auckland would be the poorer if the North was not an integral part of what we are. Wellsford and the North is part of the diversity that is Auckland.

The next time I’m in the North will be when I’m there to discuss the comanagement of the Kaipara Harbour, another of Auckland’s real treasures.

Another reason why I personally am determined that your part of Auckland is supported and promoted in the new environment.

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Regional Development and maintenance. Council is exploring the Operations Committee chair Cr Ann introduction of standardised rentals Hartley says the aim is to provide and fees including free maintenance of common arrangements across the buildings to ensure community groups are better able to budget for their region that are fair and transparent.

“Currently, there’s a myriad of operation. different arrangements inherited from Officers will report back with the seven former councils and we recommendations to the committee need to introduce some clarity and prior to it setting policies before July 1. consistency,” she says.

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The Neighbourhood Support service for the Rodney and Hibiscus Bay was brought back from the brink of closure late last week, following emergency intervention by the Local Board.

However, the long-term future of give the service a base, in the Orewa the service remains uncertain, as the community constable’s offices. funding is only expected to stretch for Since February 17 Karen has been around six months. working on a voluntary basis, just to keep The service, that started in 2006, assists the service running, so she is relieved communities to form networks which that last minute talks resulted funding of can provide support, communicate $10,000. However, significantly more is with Police, and disseminate needed to keep the service on its feet. information and resources. Many One option being considered is to groups also build social networks with actively look for sponsorship from regular meetings. the private sector, which has not been Many groups also build social done in Rodney before. networks with regular meetings.

Karen says a sponsor can expect great Coordinator Karen Little had almost coverage within the community and given up hope of receiving support to on the website (www.rodneyns.com). enable the service to continue, after all She says if the service is allowed to go the applications to funding agencies to the wall, it will be an enormous loss were declined last December and for the community. early approaches to Auckland Council Orewa Community Constable Jason proved fruitless.

Homan agrees, saying Neighbourhood In the last funding round in 2009, Support groups provide thousands of the former Rodney District Council extra pairs of eyes and ears that are provided $30,000 over three years invaluable for Police. to cover Karen’s part-time salary and In the six years Karen has been operational costs. These funds are now coordinator, she has overseen the exhausted. number of active groups in the region “A combination of the economic times rise from 160 to almost 400, with and the fact that a greater proportion more than 6000 people involved. of funds are diverted to Christchurch “It has been shown in the past that saw all our normal funding sources when there is no coordinator the dry up,” Karen says. groups splinter and lose interest. This Karen says while many people believe happened in Waitakere a few years ago. salaries are funded by Neighbourhood We are trying all avenues, because, if Support’s national body or Police. the service has to eventually fold, we In fact, the national body provides want to know we did our best to save resources only and Police’s role is to it for the community.”

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History

A High School for Warkworth Education has been described as the most useful kind of luggage to carry with you as it weighs nothing, takes up no room and costs nothing for excess. This was the message conveyed to Warkworth parents in 1921 urging them to support an initiative to convert a room at the Percy Street School into a secondary department. In spite of a mixed response, the school committee forged ahead and by January 1923 the required 20 names were registered and conditional approval to open a high school class followed soon after.

The first pupils were enrolled in April 1923 with Mr L. Brown as teacher. His place was taken by Miss Baxter mid-year and she was soon succeeded by Mr Carter, an ex soldier and all-round athlete.

From the beginning there was emphasis on examinations. Those who had a Proficiency Certificate were entitled to two free years and Intermediate Certificate gave a free place for two further years study. Matriculation and Public Service exams opened doors to employment or university.

Two early purchases were a sewing machine and a typewriter for those taking home-craft and commercial courses, and agriculture was an important option in a farming area. In 1924, eight boys travelled to Ruakura to participate in a week of training in agricultural subjects.

The government met all expenses except the 10 shillings for board. Extensions to the buildings were planned in 1924 but the closure of the cement works and its possible effect on the school roll forced a re-think. Modified extensions including a science room and two classrooms were completed in 1925.

The Atmore report recommending small schools be consolidated led to the provision of free bus services bringing country children into Warkworth and the high school roll climbed to 50.

The school launch still brought pupils up the Mahurangi River though a very low afternoon tide meant a short day

Consultation on rates closing soon

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Auckland Council’s first draft LongTerm Plan (LTP) 2012 to 2022, which includes discussion on a single rating system, is currently out for public consultation.

Rodney’s Cr Penny Webster says there has been a lot of debate on the content of the document, which attempts to balance the need to fund projects to support future growth and transform the city, while trying to keep the cost to ratepayers in check.

Council is seeking a legislative change to allow it to consider a combined capping and phased approach to minimising the impact on ratepayers. This option will be consulted on in addition to the previous proposed transition policy of applying an automatic remission for ratepayers with large increases.

The additional option includes: yy A 10 percent cap on any increases for residential, farm and lifestyle properties in any one year, for three years. This will be balanced by a cap on the level of decreases. yy Phased approach for businesses – also over three years.

The draft LTP outlines Council’s prioritised activities and projects, and how it intends to pay for them. It also includes information about how Council manages its finances and local board agreements, including local projects.

The draft LTP includes proposals on: yy A single rates system yy Changes to regulatory and nonregulatory fees and charges, including building and resource consents and dog registrations yy Projects that boost the economy yy Investment in transport initiatives yy Property development contributions yy Urban development and natural environments Comment on the plan closes on March 24. Info: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

The first Warkworth School, 1921.

The first Secondary Class, Warkworth, 1923. From back; Max Hamilton, Merv Morrison, Tui Sullivan, Ray Carran, Bill Sullivan, Tom Dawon, Jim Sharp, Middle; Ken Moore, Bill Thompson, Napier Roper, Eric Anderson, Front; Millie Ramsbottom, Pearl Williams, Edna Grant, Eileen Dynes, Caroline Ward, Rose Lawrie, Violet Edwards and Alma Ramsbottom.

for them. When electric power came to Warkworth in 1936 the school had one light and one power point installed. How inadequate that seems by modern standards!

Teaching children to swim was a priority and the school won praise for the number of certificates awarded each year. At first, the dam and tidal area below the town bridge were used.

Some may remember the day when Mr Keys had to leap in fully clothed to rescue a girl in difficulties.

In 1937, plans were made to build a new modern District High School and a site was found on the Shoesmith land in Hill St. The delay of the project meant years of frustration coping with overcrowding and buildings in very poor condition.

During the war, high school students were encouraged to support the patriotic effort especially by Miss Mathews who

ran a Junior Red Cross group. In June 1941, a copper trail was arranged and the line of 1480 pennies and halfpennies stretching from the gate, across the playground, in the back door and along the corridor raised £6.3.4. The children also regularly contributed to food parcels sent to Warkworth School in England. This contact led to the Duke of Northumberland agreeing to the use of the Percy family crest on the school emblem.

Finally, the school moved to the new buildings in 1946 with the high school accommodated in the rear wing.

Enduring friendships are made during schooldays and the Easter reunion, April 6 to 8, will provide an opportunity to meet former schoolmates, many of whom are coming from a distance to attend. Info: reunion@mahurangi.school.nz or P.O. Box 64 Woodcocks Rd, Warkworth.

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Mayor Len Brown shows off the shirt presented to him by Integrated Kaipara Management group coordinator Leanna Makey.

Mayor hears Wellsford issues Individuals and representatives of various Wellsford community groups lined the town’s main street on February 13 for the chance to share their thoughts and concerns about their community with Auckland Mayor Len Brown.

Mayor Brown held his first, hour long Member Colin Smith wanted to Mayor in the Chair event for the year know when something would be done in Rodney Street, before attending about the numerous unsealed roads in a luncheon with members of the Rodney and wanted an assurance that Landowners and Contractors Protection their rates investment in the Araparera joint venture, with the former Rodney Association at La Padella restaurant.

Matters raised with the Mayor in the Council, would be spent locally. informal Mayor in the Chair session “I doubt there are any unsealed roads included pedestrian crossing issues on in Manukau,” he said.

State Highway 1, a Centennial Park “If the new supercity is about equality, plan, the amount of liquor stores and why are we missing out on funding places to gamble in Wellsford, the and why aren’t our rates being spent status of the town, Council valuations, here.” transport, the Kaipara Harbour and Mayor Brown said there had been economic, residential and commercial a commitment made in Auckland development in the town.

Council’s Long Term Plan for funds Meanwhile, at the Landowners and to be set aside each year for Rodney’s Contractors Protection Association unsealed roads, and while he needed luncheon, members voiced their to be updated on the Araparera feelings about Auckland Council’s scheme, he said that money should be ring fenced for the area. neglect of the north.

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Hall long past its use-by date

By Guy Scholefield

Warkworth Town Hall

debate

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 15

I have been watching with much sadness, but no little amusement, the carry-on about the closure of the Warkworth Town Hall. I feel that I am competent to comment on this subject having being involved in the establishment committee for a new community centre in Warkworth on the riverbank for the better part of 18 years, the last four as chairman.

In the mid-1980s the Rotary Club of by rating the building there was no Contrary to what Cr Turner stated demand a building that is appropriate Warkworth spent a considerable amount chance that it could ever be shifted. in the paper recently, the ASB Trusts to the 21st century and the needs of our of time and money on planning for a This was a major stumbling block, did not decline a grant because they growing town, you will never get it. This proposed new community centre. This but over the years, we developed more chose to support the old building. The could be your chance to put aside all was to be located in the Lucy Moore plans incorporating the building within grant was declined simply because of your personal opinions, and try and Park area but never progressed because our new modem structure. It was not of excess applications/limitations to work as a community to get something the community wanted that land left as easy trying to blend the designs, but their budget for that year. I am quite decent constructed. Otherwise, we will open space. In the late 1980s, a detailed we accepted that the lodge had to stay confident ASB Trusts would have be stuck with what is currently a derelict, study of community centre needs was and were prepared to incorporate it, supported us in due course. We were old, useless town hall, or a worse case close to having the working drawings scenario, a vast amount of money done by independent consultants however inappropriate. and this clearly identified the need Funding had always been an issue but for the new building prepared when poured into upgrading it and still have a for a new, multi-purpose community we did obtain a $3.5 million guarantee Rodney District Council had a change building with limited uses. I believe the centre including a theatre and function from Rodney District Council in the of CEO. We can all remember the best outcome would be to sell the hall rooms, within the precinct of the retail late 1990s to put towards construction. effect that Roger Kerr-Newell (he of property for $1 to a user group, on the area. Consequently, an establishment This was never paid out but was to be the golden handshake) had when he clear understanding that there would committee formed about 1990 and made available when we proceeded. decided to slash and burn all budgetary be no comeback to Council for funds. proceeded to identify a suitable site. Other funds were to come from the items. Within a matter of weeks we If some people do love this building to Of all the sites available, the existing sale of the old town hall site and various were summoned to Orewa and told bits, this will be their opportunity to town hall site and the riverbank site other Council properties, external grants in no uncertain terms that the $3.5 put their money into it. The resource in Baxter Street were shown to be the and fundraising. All through this period million which had been rolled over consent for the new building on the most suitable. In 1992, we opted for we raised about $1 million in additional year-after-year, was no longer available riverbank is still alive – it was issued the riverbank, opposite Percy Street, funds and grants. Unfortunately, the sale to us. Effectively, therefore, the whole for 10 years from 2008. The totally independent Centre at Warkworth Trust and Council purchased all of that land of the town hall site was prevented by project was scuttled in one blow. extending out to Lucy Moore Park. The a very small group of well meaning but Why on earth anyone thinks that the is still in place for the establishment of old lodge building remained on site. commercially naive people who rushed old town hall could ever provide a useful an alternative building so everything is Our initial proposal was to relocate the off to the Historic Places Trust and facility for Warkworth is beyond me. still on track for that project. The only lodge building to a more appropriate obtained a rating on the building. There It has some historic brick cladding and thing needed is motivation. location having accepted that it was was no way the old town hall could ever lots of memories, but I agree with other Consultation on plans for the old an historic building that needed be sold from that point onwards. Worse writers to the paper that its days are long hall will be underway soon. Use this preservation, but not necessarily in that still, the running and maintenance costs past. However, the Historic Places Trust opportunity wisely and make it quite location. Common sense suggested of the hall became a confusion in the will dictate its use and you and I will be clear that we do not want another that we could put the building in a whole scheme of things – the public paying for it. Rather than despair that dollar spent on it. good location elsewhere, which would struggled to identify why anybody Council has finally shut the building Guy Scholefield is a local businessman and enhance the building rather than would be spending money on that old down, we need to use this as a catalyst Rotarian who has been involved almost detract from it. However, the Historic building when we were proposing to for a new structure. Wake up Warkworth from the outset with the project to establish Places Trust thought otherwise, and build a new one nearby.

– if you do not use this opportunity to a new community centre in Warkworth.

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16 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

Parks project updates

Shadze

Money

AL TS TOPS &CLSUDKEIR BASICS

All-weather investment

Sizes 10-22 or made to measure

OFEF 50L % SUMM R DOES NOT IN

6 Neville St, Warkworth Phone: 09 425 0515 Monday-Friday 9.15am-5.15pm Saturday 9.30am-2.30pm www.shadze.co.nz

For free confidential and impartial information, advice, advocacy and support.

Our service covers Warkworth, Wellsford and Mangawhai areas.

Monday-Friday 10am-3pm.

We have information on a wide range of subjects from Consumer and Tenancy Rights to Neighbourhood Disputes and Family Issues.

Visit the Community Centre, 1 Matheson Road, Wellsford or phone 423 7333 or 0800 367 222.

Email cab.wells@xtra.co.nz

with Alex Fowler

alex@fassociates.co.nz

Just like the weather we have had this summer, financial markets are unpredictable. If you set your investment portfolio only for warm, sunny days, you can wind up with exposure should the investment climate turn cold, wet and miserable. How do you respond to this? Well, you can rely on the forecasters, whose job is to warn you about the financial equivalent of approaching cold fronts. Trouble is those forecasts, as time has shown, can go badly awry.

Every year, one can read surveys produced by investment research groups stating future prospects for various investment options. One recent example I read was a prediction that Australian shares were unlikely to perform and international shares were going to be very bullish.

As it turned out the best asset class was emerging markets which returned 22.69% and the worst was global small cap companies that were down 10.59%. I should also mention that Australian large companies returned 16.3%. So it is very difficult to discern a pattern year-to-year and relying on forecasts in setting your investment strategy can be hazardous to your financial health.

This why it is wise to build an all-weather investment portfolio, one that is built for all seasons. The financial experts call this process ‘diversification’ but it’s really just a way of spreading your risks so you avoid climate extremes that can wash away your returns from one year to the next. Investors must be aware of the critical importance of broad diversification onshore and offshore. Markets are unpredictable and it is impossible to know how each asset class will perform year-to-year. Or to use our weather analogy, no-one can guarantee there won’t be the odd rainy day, but there are things you can do to ensure you don’t get drenched. And diversification is one of them.

Warning The Trading Banks have just shown a record six months of earning. Remember this is simply because they are borrowing at local low interest rates and lending at a premium to their customers. This is a transfer of wealth from New Zealand families to shareholders of the banks.

Every investor investing in fixed interest deposits should work out how much they are contributing to their bank every year. These results can prove the long-term financial disaster for many families who have spent years building their capital through hard toil.

Alex Fowler’s disclosure statement can be viewed at www. localmatters.co.nz

Auckland Council’s parks department recently reported on some of the projects it would be undertaking in the next six months. The list included the following: yy $180,307 will be spent on the Whangateau Domain seawall renewal stage 1. The notified resource consent application has been submitted and tenders are being prepared. A starting date would be dependent on the outcome of the resource consent process. yy A $128,014 makeover for the Wellsford Centennial Park carpark was expected to be completed by the end of April. The work included sealing the metal carpark next to the tennis courts, kerb and channelling, line marking and stormwater drainage. yy $54,244 for the Omaha Beach seawall upgrade stage 2. A start was made on preparing tenders last month. yy $51,000 will be spent on the Snells Beach seawall, repairs and renewal. Some minor repair work on the existing fence was planned during February and March. yy $31,000 will be spent on repair work to the Sandspit Wharf Road seawall. The work will be carried out under the existing Coastal Permit. yy $10,000 towards a predator-proof fence at Omaha. yy $10,000 for Te Arai Beach coastal replanting to repair dune damage lost through storm damage. yy $10,000 will be spent on seawall and investigation at Rainbows End. Only minor works are required and these will be carried out in consultation with the community. yy $10,000 will be spent on an Omaha Beach coastal replanting project, to replace dune vegetation lost through storm damage and excessive public access.

Dance workshop proposed A recently-formed national dance company will offer a youth engagement workshop at Mahurangi College this year, if it is successful in securing funding. The workshop is being proposed by The NZ Dance Company, founded

by Leigh’s Shona McCullagh and Frances Turner. Ms Turner told a Rodney Local Board meeting on February 13 that although the company was based in Grey Lynn, its intention was to offer youth development programmes regionally and then nationally. “The company comprises elite dancers, choreographers, artists and collaborators,” she said. “Among several aims was to bring contemporary dance to the mainstream and foster young talent.” The company has already secured a $1 million grant from Creative Communities, as well as “strong” corporate support. “If we’re successful in an ARST fund application, the workshop at Mahurangi College will be an opportunity for young dancers to work with experienced performers and choreographers and their performance could be integrated into the company’s long-term performance work.”

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Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 17 Mahurangimatters - 1 March 2012 1

Your handy pull-out guide

Get the right person for the job with our handy service directory, which ensures you can find a local professional or tradesperson, quickly and easily.

Advertise Your Business Here ONLY $48 PER INSERTION (+GST)* *for a three insertion contract Phone 425 9068 for more information or email your advertisement to localmatters@xtra.co.nz

Glaziers & Joiners ...................................... 1 Automotive Services ............................... 1 Tyres .............................................................. 1 Auto Electrical............................................ 1 Auto Wreckers............................................ 2 Panel and Paint.......................................... 2 Trellis, Fencing & Supplies ..................... 2 Carpenters, Builders & Roofers ............ 2 Scaffolding .................................................. 2 Engineering ................................................ 2 Sawmilling .................................................. 2 Construction & Earthworks ..............2-3 Concrete Specialists ................................ 3

Tiling, Brick & Block Layers .................... 3 Flooring ........................................................ 3 Electrical ...................................................... 3 Design, Survey & Property Valuers ........ 3 Lawn mowing & Landscaping .............. 3 Property Maintenance .......................3-4 Arborists ...................................................... 4 Retail ............................................................. 4 Acupuncturists .......................................... 4 Health & Beauty ........................................ 4 Specialty Foods ......................................... 4 Furniture ...................................................... 4 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaners.............. 4 Home Services - Blinds, Awning etc ...... 4

Painters/Decorators & Plasterers ........ 4 Water Pump Specialists .............................. 5 Swimming Pools ....................................... 5 Marine/Small Engines ............................. 5 Plumbing & Suppliers ............................. 5 Printers & Design ...................................... 5 TV Aerial & Satellite Servicing .............. 5 Water Supplies .......................................... 5 Water Tank Cleaning & Purification......... 6 Storage ......................................................... 6 Furniture Removals.................................. 6 Sheep Shearing & Services.................... 6 Mobility Scooters...................................... 6 Classifieds & Church Notices ...... 6-7

Glaziers & Joiners | Automotive Services | Tyres | Auto Electrical

For all your glass, glazing, and aluminium needs and

53 Station Road, Wellsford Phone (09) 423 7358 wellsfordglass@xtra.co.nz

431 5050

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20 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth (09) 425 8678 • 0800 809 010 www.winstoneglass.com

Composite Joinery Ltd 7 Glenmore Drive Warkworth 0941

24hr CALLOUT

Frameless Shower Installations Bevelled Mirrors - ALL GLASS REPAIRS PROMPT QUALITY WORK WE SERVICE WARKWORTH & MANGAWHAI

Domestic / Commercial Glazing Glass Showers • Splash Backs Mirrors • Cat Doors Windscreen Replacement and Chip Repair

COMPOSITE JOINERY Ltd

0274 904 564 425 5340

email: brettatapexglass@yahoo.co.nz

WG

arkworth instone lass & lazing

Auto GlAss • Mirrors DesiGner GlAss • GlAzinG

09 431 4999

2/194 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai Heads info@northglass.co.nz • www.northglass.co.nz

Phone: 09 425 7510 Fax: 09 422 2011

We specialise in: • Vantage Aluminium Joinery • APL | Architectural Series • Metro Series • Internal and External Timber Joinery

sales@compositejoinery.co.nz www.compositejoinery.co.nz

Snells Beach

MOTORS – 2008 LIMITED –

 425 5355

1 Hamatana Road - Snells Beach

Mobile Mechanical ServiceS On site servicing of your vehicle • Engine tunes • Brake checks • Lube services

• Cam belt replacement • Shock replacement • Exhaust repairs

John Young Ph (09) 425 7781 • Mob 0274 828 293 Hours: Mon – Fri 8am – 5pm

Your local Auto Electrical & Battery Specialist

Unit 4, 6-14 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth

27 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth Phone Mike: 09 425 7969 Email: autec@clear.net.nz

1 March 2012 18 | Mahurangimatters 2 Mahurangimatters - 1 March 2012

Your handy pull-out guide

Auto Wreckers | Panel & Paint | Trellis, Fencing & Supplies | Carpenters, Builders, Roofers & Suppliers | Scaffolding | Engineering | Sawmilling | Construction & Earthworks

WARKWORTH

Ian

Wayne

EDMONDS & MASON PANEL & PAINT

AUTO WRECKERS FOR ALL NEW & USED PARTS

Private & All Insurance Work

WE NEED CARS FOR WRECKING – $$$ PAID

Ph 425 8723 • Fax 425 9526 Wayne 021 765 706 or Ian 021 977 729 47 Woodcocks Road, Warkworth

2 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth Ph (09) 425 7835 or (09) 425 7730

Email: autoglassww@xtra.co.nz

RODNEY TRELLIS

Matakana Trellis & Fencing

Trellis - Panels - Fencing Installations - all shapes and sizes Specialities: Framed Archways – Superior Trellis Pedestrian Gate Frames (mortised) Trellis spray painting / oiling Gazebo's ~ dove cotes ~ pergolas

Fences - Gates - Screens Pergola - Trellis - Timber 1A Matakana Valley Rd Ph: 422 9550 Fax: 422 9635 115

872 Kaipara Flats Road Ph: 425 7627 • Fax 422 4976

The

Trellis Guy Snells Beach • Warkworth • Orewa

• Custom made • Quality material • Quality workmanship

Also see Lance for your supply of Native and Landscaping plants

Ph 09 422 5737 • 027 272 7561 Fax 09 422 5800

CARPENTER-JOINER • Terraces • Alterations • New Housing

• Renovations • Maintenance • Small jobs a specialty

NEIL KOSE

Phone 09 425 5491 • Mobile 027 275 1172

AWARD WINNING BUILDER

• Design & build • New homes • Renovation • Maintenance • Fences & decks • Project management • Alterations & additions • Shade & outdoor living areas

RICHARD WILCOCK

Auckland region house of the year 2008

FOR ALL YOUR WOODLOT HARVESTING NEEDS 30 years local experience Be quick while prices are high

For the construction of:

• Architecturally designed homes • New houses • Decks • Alterations • Fences

Phone: 027 4771 583 email: rwb@xtra.co.nz www.rwbuilder.co.nz 152M

Phone EDWOOD

021 27 47 222 or 09 423 73 43

Roofing N.Z • slabs • flooring

• beams & posts • mulch

• panelling • firewood

362 Matakana Valley Rd, Matakana 0948

ph 422 7716 • fax 422 7717 matakanasawmill@xtra.co.nz

NATHAN HOUSTON Ph: 09 422 2131

LTD.

LOCAL TRADES

PROPERTY SERVICES & MAINTENANCE

You can trust us to find the right person for the job

Contact Linda Robinson p e

09 422 9860 linda@localtrades.co.nz

m w

027 526 1146 www.localtrades.co.nz

‘Just one call and we’ll arrange it all’

470 KAiPArA FlATS rOAd, WArKWOrTH126

Servicing Auckland - Rodney - Kaipara

For your safety we have: • Experienced Qualifi ed Scaffolders • Full range of Equipment • Including Alloy Mobile & Builder’s Props

PHONE 0800 622 7929

OMAHA - SNELLS BEACH - WARKWORTH - MANGAWHAI Member of Scaffolding and Rigging New Zealand

HIAB TRUCK AND PORTABLE SAWMILLING phone 09 425 6431

General Engineering unit 5 • hamatana Road snells beach

Ring Matt on 021 356 965 A/hrs/Fax: 09 425 6311 Email: iron.man@xtra.co.nz

Mob: 021 220 5000

Calling all local tradespeople Are you looking for more work?

Why not join Local Trades Ltd Calling all customers We’ll find the right tradesperson for those jobs around your home and property

Long Run Iron Specialists New Re-Roofs & Cladding

- Residential & Light Commercial - Quick Stage - OSH Standards - Tube & Clip - Qualified Scaffolders - Reliable Service P. 09 425 0300 M. 027 4930468 F. 09 423 0017

warkworthscaffolding@xtra.co.nz

R.K. PADDISON CONTRACTING LTD • Truck Hire • Metal Supplies • Bulk Cartage

Owner/Driver: Ray GRANT TORKINGTON 021 138 7206

38 Coquette Street, Warkworth Ph 422 3450 or 0274 955 566 • Fax 09 422 3451

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 19 Mahurangimatters - 1 March 2012 3

Your handy pull-out guide

Construction & Earthworks | Concrete | Brick, Block Layers & Tiling | Flooring | Electrical | Design, Architects & Surveyors | Lawn Mowing & Landscaping | Property Maintenance

MICK BERGER CONTRACTORS

021 2800 233

Phone: 09 422 0688 • Mobile: 0274 930 806

www.nzconcrete.co.nz

CONTRACTORS

43 years experience

Dams ● Winching ● Bulldozing ● Driveways House Sites ● Landscaping ● Earthmoving ● Sub Divisions

Footings Hole Boring Landscaping

3.5T Digger 5T Truck

Bob Waata Mobile 021 634 484

dens@xtra.co.nz PO Box 193, Warkworth

Foundations • Floors • Drives • Paths • Digger & Truck Hire Concrete Specialists backed by over 30 years experience Established since 1984

DRIVEWAYS FLOORS • PATHS Exposed • Plain • Coloured Stamped Concrete • Cutting Residential & Commercial Sub-divisions • R.O.W’s • Excavations 135M

Bricks • Blocks • Paving

Astute

WARKWORTH BRICKLAYING SERVICES LTD

Craftsman Tiler | High Quality Workmanship Accredited Waterproof Membrane Installer Specialist in Epoxy Grout | NZQA Trade Certified

Phone Alan Berthelsen 021 780 170 • A/hrs 425 8252

Simon Bennett 09 431-5723 or 021 320-705 email: astute1@ubernet.co.nz 72 Cames Road, RD5 Wellsford 0975

Tiling & Waterproofing Denis 021 945 498 Joel 021 422 592

BASED IN MATAKANA

TILING SERVICES

FLOOR SANDING - FLOOR PREPARATION FLOOR SANDING - FLOOR PREPARATION

Carpet, Vinyl, Cork & Ceramic Tiles Installation Service Overlocking Service

Polyurethaning:- Wooden Floors, Particle Board & Cork Cork Tiles:- Natural & Coloured

Free Measure and Quote

Enviro Friendly Products available sales@rodneyflooring.co.nz

KAE JAE CONTRACTORS (LTD) PHONE KEN (0274) 866-923 A/Hrs (09) 422-7328 • Fax (09) 422-7329

T.T.E. DESIGNS

COASTAL CONCEPTS • Electrician • Gates & Automation t. 09 422 2175 m. 027 497 0464 e. cc2004@xtra.co.nz

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNERS

ELECTRICAL SERVICES Residential and Commercial Electrical Phone 422 9589 • Mobile 021 679 483 Email: rob.vic@xtra.co.nz

Lamb & moLLoy Ltd SURVEYORS

Prompt, professional advice and service for all Subdivisions and Land Development Work

Phone Warkworth (09) 425-7393 R. Mather 021 425 837 • R. Molloy 021 779 964

23 Bertram Street - Warkworth admin@lmsurveyors.co.nz

JB’s No 1 LANDSCAPING SERVICES

• Planting • Paving • Retaining WallS • FenceS • deckS • gaRden makeoveRS SERVICING HIBISCUS COAST TO MANGAWHAI

JOHN BETTRIDGE P: 09 425 4086 M: 021 665 558 E: john.bettridge@jbsno1.co.nz

TOTAL LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION for complete quality projects

• Lawns - contouring & seeding • Top soil • Retaining Walls • Driveways • Paths • Digger • Truck • Tractor

Phone Bruce 425 7766 a/h Landscape Industries Association of New Zealand Inc.

I take the hard work out of Landscaping

Over 25 years experience in all aspects of residential design THOMAS ERRINGTON Dip.Arch.

P: 09 425 0512 M: 027 453 2495 E: ttedesigns@ruralinzone.net W: www.ttedesigns.co.nz

It's your day off and you're mowing the lawn?

• Lawnmowing • Hedges & Pruning • gardening / sPraying • section cLean uPs • rubbisH removaL • gutter cLeaning • Handyman

CALL FREE 0800 4 JIM JIM (546 546) or book online at www.jimsmowing.co.nz

FRANCHISE ENQUIRIES WELCOME

• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • WATER BLASTING

0800 927 492 021 725 907

1 March 2012 20 | Mahurangimatters 4 Mahurangimatters - 1 March 2012

Your handy pull-out guide

Property Maintenance & Landscaping | Arborists | Retail | Acupuncturists | Health & Beauty | Specialty Foods | Furniture | Carpet & Upholstery | Blinds | Painters & Decorators

House & Garden Care

A complete house & property service • Garden Design • Gardening • Windows • Gutters • Property Maintenance • Raised Vegetable Gardens • Compost Bins • Climbing Frames & Pergolas • Pruning • Chainsaw, Fencing & Handyman Work • Garden Tool Sharpening

home & property maintenance General household carpentry and repairs • Decks • Stairs • Handrails • Fences • Doors • Letterboxes

Great service, rates & advice | Senior discounts One off or ongoing maintenance | Organic options for weeds & pests

Property maintenance for permanent or absentee homeowners

Phone Tim 021 857 433 or 422 9493

John Petchell 09 425 6962 • 0275 183 570 NO JOBS TOO SMALL

Arcadia

100% MANGAWHAI ELECTRICAL 12b Wood Street, Mangawhai Heads 12B Wood Street, Mangawhai Heads M 021 280 4008 P 09 431 4651 E mwiappliance@gmail.com

Beauty Therapy & Nail Creations

Martin Greenleaf

D.Ac., Bac.Ac., Acupuncturist Member of NZ Register of Acupuncturists

Registered ACC Referral Provider

27 Lilburn Street, Warkworth 09 422 3729 or 09 480 2255 martingreenleaf@xtra.co.nz

• Facials • Waxing • Tinting • Gel Nails • Acrylic Nails • Manicures • Pedicures • Electrolysis • Make-up • Body Wraps • Massage • Spray Tans

for head to toe pampering

Alison Wech

C.I.D.E.S.C.O, C.I.B.T.A.C, dip Beauty Therapy, dip Electrolysis, dip Body Therapy, dip Nail Technician

46 McKinney Road, Warkworth Mob 021 051 3661 • Ph 09 425 7776 tlcbeautytherapynails@yahoo.co.nz

FROG POOL FARM

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL

EXCELLENCE IN FURNITURE

CARPET CLEANING

Recycled Matai

Custom Built Kitchens

NZ Made Solid Wood

Ph 425 9030 • Dome Valley 5 minutes past Warkworth

HOMEWOOD BLIND SERVICES John Homewood

Clean and Repair Verticals, Venetians and Various Blinds Remesh Screens  Replace Blinds Repair Curtain Tracks  Window Cleaning

mobile 021 274 1676 phone 09 422 0025 email jchomewood@hotmail.com

itchen Colours and Wood Finishes Spraypainters of quality kitchens Lacquers, enamels, 2 pacs, clearcoats Resprays and Recolours

Phone / Fax Gary 425 7669 Unit 21/30 Hudson Road, Warkworth115

handyman@bruno.co.nz • www.bruno.co.nz

Owner/Operators

Specialising in:  STUMP GRINDING  Fine Pruning  Tree Removal  Hedge Trimming Ph Kevin on 021 725 757

Lavender House

Phone to discuss YOUR requirements 021 423 860 - 423 8619 a/h

Grant & Jeanette Stewart

Tree Care

TREATS MOST HEALTH PROBLEMS Over 30 years experience

For all your property maintenance and small building projects

Emergency Flood Service Technical Experience 12 years Fully qualified and certified

Call FREE 0800 022 101 Mobile 021 456 429 Email: brocks@xtra.co.nz

DS N I BL

Certified Member of the Carpet Cleaning Association of NZ

VENLUREE

since 1966

www.100percent.co.nz

Good food that’s Gluten Free

18b Glenmore Drive, Warkworth 425 9593 • elocinfoods@xtra.co.nz www.elocinfoods.co.nz

WARKWORTH COMMERCIAL CLEANERS LTD Carpet & Upholstery Cleaners General Commercial Cleaners

Paddy & Gaye Webb Phone/Fax: Mobile: Email: Website:

09 425 6844 021 079 8578 padgayewebb@gmail.com www.wwcc.co.nz

AWN I

NGS

SECURITY DOORS • SHUTTERS • SCREENS Agents for • Supply • Installation FOR • Cleaning • Repairs

09 426 8079 021 2144 250

T +64 (0)9 431 4651 F +64 (0)9 431 4290 E mwielec@yahoo.com

email: vlr.frank@yahoo.co.nz www.venluree.co.nz

FREE QUOTES CALL FRANK

Your Painter/Decorator with over 25 years experience serving all surrounding areas

Leigh Decorators Painting • Paperhanging • Roofs • Airless Spraying • Stopping (small jobs) • Repaints • New Homes For your Free Quote and/or Consultation phone Gary HOME: 09-422-6695 • MOBILE: 021-024-44941 EMAIL: gary.robyn@clear.net.nz

A BRUSH WITH ART

EXPERT PAINTING AND DECORATING

Interior/Exterior n Waterblasting n Roof Painting Airless Spraying n Plastering n Wallpapering Colour Consulting n Decorative Effects Qualified Tradesmen - Honest/Reliable Ph Mandy 09 425 9007 or 021 507 463

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR ONLY +GST* PER INSERTION

$48

Phone Cathy or Renee 425 9068 or email your advert to advertising@localmatters.co.nz *for a three insertion contract

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 2012 1 | 21 Mahurangimatters 1 March TOSSI TURNS 10

footprints for the future

Tawharanui Regional Park covers 588 hectares of which nearly 60 percent is forest, regenerating scrub and retired pasture. The balance is made up of farmland, dunes and foreshore, and wetlands. There is also a campground.

Sanctuary experiment proves stunning success A decade of conservation work at Tawharanui Regional Park is being recognised at this year’s Art in the Woolshed exhibition, from March 10 to 18.

Tawharanui Regional Park was NZ’s first mainland, integrated open sanctuary. It is a place where a rugged coastline meets hectares of wetlands and forest, where sheep and cattle graze on rich pasture, and where many treasured native birds have taken refuge.

Hundreds of years ago, the Tawharanui Peninsula provided a rich variety of marine and forest resources for the Maori tribe Ngati Raupo.

They sold the land in the 1870s and the first European settlers were the Martin, Jones and Young families who developed it as a farm.

Kauri timber was milled for many years and manuka was cut and sold for firewood. Tonnes of gravel was extracted from the park from 1925 to 1967, creating the Jones Bay Lagoon.

In response to growing concerns over the subdivision of prime coastal land on the eastern coastline from the Waitemata to Rodney in the 1960s, the Auckland Regional Authority (ARA) began to develop a regional parks network and purchased the

588-hectare Georgetti family farm in 1973.

The Tawharanui Marine Protected Area was established in 1981 and became a full marine reserve last year.

In 1995, the Auckland Regional Council, formally the ARA, explored the idea of developing an intensively managed conservation area – a mainland island, within the regional park.

Tawharanui was selected because of its size, location, range of habitats, flora and fauna, and its proximity to significant conservation areas such as Hauturu.

Receiving support from within the ARC and from the Rodney community, the Tawharanui Open Sanctuary (TOS) was initiated in 2000. Two years later, the Tawharanui Open Sanctuary Society (TOSSI) was formed to get the open sanctuary project on its feet.

The first chair was Hamish Alexander.

The major task facing the new TOSSI committee was to raise funds to help build the pest-proof fence.

One means of achieving this was through the staging of the first Art in the Woolshed exhibition in 2003.

These first years set the pattern for the future of TOSSI and Tawharanui.

Creating a predator-free mainland island safe for brown

kiwi and other native species, meant a lot of work to rid the park of introduced pest animals and weeds.

Tieke (saddleback) are about to be re-introduced to Tawharanui and their noisy presence will soon become a feature of the park. Over time, more of the missing pieces of the natural ecology will be returned – native fish are high on TOSSI’s wish list.

Over the last 10 years, 10 species have been re-introduced to the sanctuary.

Tawharanui trivia yy Gravel extracted from Jones Bay was used to construct the Auckland Harbour Bridge’s concrete piers in 1959. yy Anchor Bay is named after the anchor of the Phoenix, a vessel wrecked on the Tawharanui coastline in 1879. yy Over the last 30 years, 89 bird species have been recorded in and around the park, or just offshore. yy The sheep at Tawharanui are CoopworthRomney cross breed. There are around 800 ewes, 300 ewe lambs and a small number of rams.

Proud sponsors of TOSSI Congratulations on 10 years of inspiring achievement Ransom Wines donate all cellar door tasting fees to TOSSI plus for every bottle of Ransom Wines K-Syrah sold, $1 is donated to TOSSI. 46 Valerie Close, Warkworth | www.ransomwines.co.nz HEALTH FEATURE

TOS S I TURNS 10

TOSSI established

First Art in the Woolshed exhibition

Predator proof fence completed

2006

2005

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Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 2 1 March 2012 22 | Mahurangimatters

Green geckos saved & released

44 brown kiwi released

Dedication marks volunteer effort in park development Tawharanui holds a special place in the hearts of those who have devoted hundreds of hours to its conservation, recreation and sustainable farming goals.

Rhys Thompson

– especially in the early years, but I am still actively involved because of how far we have come and what we still have to achieve.”

A walking track was named after Rhys and Sheila last year, in recognition of their dedication to TOSSI.

James Ross

Former secretary and treasurer Rhys Thompson has been involved with TOSSI since it was formed in 2002. “I offered to volunteer at the park once a week,” he says. “When work started on a pest proof fence across the peninsula, I was involved in plotting and installing a grid of 1400 bait stations throughout the park. In order to move the project a stage further, the Auckland Regional Council wanted to formalise the volunteers into an organisation. My wife Sheila and I helped them do this, and recruited enough volunteers to incorporate the society.”

Rhys says there have been many highlights for him over the past 10 years. These include completing the pest proof fence and achieving a pest free environment, along with helping with the reintroduction of kiwis and other endangered species, and planting pastured areas and hillsides with the plants raised in the nursery.

“We have faced a number of challenges

motivated. The first major incursion of rats a few years after the fence was established was a real challenge. It came as a bit of a wake-up call and showed us we needed to be much more proactive about ongoing pest control – something that has been done very well ever since.”

James says he is proud to be a part of TOSSI every time that there is a ‘first’ for the park.

“The first successful kiwi chick and first kaka breeding were highlights for me. The ‘self-introductions’ of birds such as kaka, grey-faced petrels and bellbirds really showed that we were successful in creating and maintaining a good environment at Tawharanui.”

Sharon Kast Deputy chair James Ross joined TOSSI in 2004.

“The opportunity to be involved in such an impressive conservation programme was too good to pass up. I saw an article calling for volunteers to help with pest trap-lines. Two days later I was with Rhys Thompson walking along the south coast of Tawharanui checking traps. Since joining I have managed the two pest-control lines and I assist with recruiting others. I look after the TOSSI website and monitor the seabird attraction systems. In the past, I have also monitored kiwi populations.

“Volunteers are responsible for their own projects – it’s a great way to stay

Committee member Sharon Kast was invited to join the organisation in 2004, after attending a guided walk.

“Before moving to NZ, I was involved in nature conservation in the US, with a special interest in shorebirds,” Sharon

says. “My speciality was the piping plover and being in the same family as the NZ dotterel, it came as no surprise that the dotterel would be my focus at Tawharanui. Alison Stanes and myself became known as ‘the dotterel chicks’, as we would monitor the birds two to three times a week during the breeding season. Little did I know that kiwi, robin, whitehead, pateke and red crowned kakariki would soon follow, and that translocation and the monitoring would soon consume most of my free time.”

Sharon says TOSSI volunteers tend to find their niche at the park and hers was native birds.

“I organise the kiwi calling counts including co-opting volunteers to help. I’ve enjoyed learning how to use the telemetry gear to track kiwi and kakariki, and showing others how to use the equipment.”

A rare opportunity to spend 10 days on Little Barrier Island, catching red crowed kakariki in mist nets for translocation to Tawharanui, stands out as one of the highlight’s of Sharon’s work with TOSSI. “The rewards are great and make the effort worthwhile. When a kiwi chick, robin or kakariki chick is found by bird monitors indicating that translocation was successful and as another species is introduced to the park, we are one step closer to establishing the fabled dawn chorus.

“I look forward to seeing the saddleback translocation this month.”

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TOSSI nursery opens

Kaka confirmed breeding

Pateke released

2012

2009

2010-11

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 2012 3 | 23 Mahurangimatters 1 March

2008

2007

TO S SI T U R N S 1 0

Marine reserve declared

Saddleback released

Partnership achievements

By TOSSI chairman Steve Palmer

From left, nursery volunteers Penny Palmer, Christine Brockes, Sheila Jenkins and nursery coordinator Paul Williams.

Revegetation prospers under nursery care Every year, TOSSI volunteers plant two hectares of native vegetation with nearly 20,000 plants raised in the park nursery.

This year’s revegetation programme, from May to September, will involve planting 20 different species including around 5900 manuka, 5100 kanuka and 3900 flaxes.

Former TOSSI chair and treasurer, now nursery coordinator, Paul Williams has been involved with the society since its formation and was the main supporter behind the nursery project.

Paul says the TOSSI committee took some convincing when the nursery idea was first put forward in 2005.

“They were worried our volunteers

would lose interest in the project because of the hard work involved,” he says. “Before we had our own nursery, we were growing plants off site through a scheme with Paremoremo prison. Inmates would grow the plants and we would purchase them, but this became too expensive. The park nursery came to life in 2007 after $25,000 was raised. It just goes to show what a bunch of competent, enthusiast volunteers can achieve.”

Altogether, around 100,000 trees have been planted at the park.

The nursery has about 24 regular volunteers and occasionally receives help from members of the Shakespear Open Sanctuary Society and some campers.

This year, between 12,000 to 13,000 plants will be planted behind the sanctuary hut near Anchor Bay, connecting Ecology Bush with the plantings running from Anchor Bay, towards Jones Bay lagoon, and 7000 to 8000 plants will go in on the south coast.

Astelia, coprosma, cordyline, hebe, kahikatea, kohekohe, karo, kowhai, mahoe, ngaio and pohutukawa make up the bulk of trees, ideal species for the birdlife in the park.

Public planting days will be held on Sunday May 6, Queen’s Birthday Weekend (Saturday and Sunday, June 2 and 3), Sunday July 3 and Sunday August 5. Additional planting days can be arranged for groups of 15 or more, which can include a sausage sizzle.

TOSSI’s 10th anniversary is a time to acknowledge the efforts and achievements of past and present members. The purchase of Tawharanui and the idea of an open sanctuary arose from the foresight of the Auckland Regional Council (ARC). However, without an effective community-based volunteer group, the sanctuary would not have progressed as it has.

Almost $1 million has been invested in the sanctuary via TOSSI’s accounts, thanks to the support of generous donors, both commercial and private.

In addition, about 100,000 hours of volunteer time has been devoted to tasks such as planting, nursery work, weed control, pest monitoring and translocation of threatened species.

The list of achievements over the past 10 years is long but, in essence, the Tawharanui Sanctuary has a pest free environment where there is an everexpanding habitat that is allowing many reintroduced species to thrive.

Yet another reintroduced species will mark our 10th anniversary with a saddleback translocation planned for March and April.

Aucklanders have benefited from the vision of the ARC in the development of Tawharanui, but public bodies are limited by financial constraints.

Community involvement is required if we are to maintain and improve our environment for future generations and TOSSI is a good example of what such partnerships can achieve.

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1 March 2012 4 Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 24 | Mahurangimatters TOSSI TURNS 10

footprints for the future Art in the Woolshed – Nature Abounds 10 to 18 March • 10am to 4pm daily • www.tossi.org.nz

Exhibition supports sanctuary work

Art in the Woolshed at Tawharanui this month will showcase contemporary and landscape paintings, sculpture, ceramics, glasswork and photography.

The exhibition started in 2003 and is held every second year. The park receives a commission from each piece of work sold and it is the major fundraiser for the Tawharanui Open Sanctuary Society. The exhibition, titled Nature Abounds, will feature the work of more than 70 artists from all over NZ including a number of local exhibitors.

Long-time Tawharanui volunteer and art coordinator Alison Stanes says one of the more impressive sculptures visitors will encounter will be the enormous giant weta by James Wright.

“The weta represents our hope that in the next 10 years it will either be reintroduced to Tawharanui or come of its own accord,” she says.

Artworks are selected for the exhibition based on their connection to the natural environment at Tawharanui. Alison recommends visitors take a stroll through The Woolshed and enjoy the artworks, picnic amid the sculptures and explore the many tracks, walks and bays of the park.

The exhibition, from March 10 to 18, will open from 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission, donations welcome.

Exhibiting artists are listed at www.tossi.org.nz.

TOSSI will also host a birthday celebration for members and volunteers on Queens Birthday Weekend (June 2 and 3) coinciding with their annual planting activities.

This sculpture by Murray Swan will feature around the lagoon at Tawharanui during the Art in the Woolshed Nature Abounds exhibition this month.

Celebrating 10 years of partnership with TOSSI to create Tawharanui Open Sanctuary

Tawharanui trivia yy Coopworths and Coopworth-Romney crosses are selected for their facial eczema resistance, reproduction and performance, survivability, constitution and wool production. yy Tawharanui is home to around 60 Hereford cows and 60 calves. Herefords have had a place on Auckland Council properties for a long time, largely because of their quiet temperament and they forage well on poorer pasture species.

Approximately 150 Hereford cows and 30 replacement heifers are managed across the wider regional park network. The main herd is located at Tawharanui. yy Post-graduate university students from Massey and Auckland Universities, often carry out research at the park. They must apply for permission and provide guidelines on research methods (whether samples can be taken), the Council’s criteria examines whether the research will contribute to the development of the open sanctuary. The reintroduction of kakariki is an example of a project partnership with Massey University. yy More than 120,000 people visit Tawharanui each year. yy Crayfish have increased to around a thousand legal-size crays per hectare inside the reserve, and have dropped away to almost zero outside the reserve. yy Large snapper follow snorkeller’s around at Comet Rocks, Phoenix Reef and Flat Rock inside the reserve. yy There are several walking trails and two mountain bike tracks, each varying in distance.

Pack a set of binoculars to catch a glimpse of the native birds.

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Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 25 Mahurangimatters - 1 March 2012 5

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Mahurangimatters 1 March 7 | 27 Mahurangimatters - 1 March 2012 2012

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28 8 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

PM draws crowd to Hospice and golf club fundraiser A fundraising dinner held at the Omaha Beach Golf Club on February 18 raised more than $20,000 for the Warkworth Wellsford Hospice and the golf club.

Guest of honour was Prime Minister John Key, accompanied by his wife Bronagh.

Around 250 guests attended and were treated to a three course plated meal inspired by Lauraine Jacob and chef Mark Townsend.

The address by the Prime Minister covered current issues in NZ and Europe, and the importance of the Chinese market.

More than 40 items went up for auction and golf club general manager John Phillis said the generosity of local businesses and individuals had been outstanding. The auctioneer was Gary Caldwell.

Warkworth/Wellsford Hospice chairman Darryl Soljan outlined hospice’s work and highlighted the importance of the new premises, which will be built in Glenmore Drive.

Mr Phillis thanked everyone who contributed in making the evening a night to remember.

Prime Minister John Key, seen clutching his own JK label of wine which he donated to the auction, and wife Bronagh, were greeted by, from left, Bridget Allen, Michael Dowd, Steve and Judy Marshall, Larry Allen and Bill Abraham. Photo by Marc Herbulot.

Council investigates sea kayak trail opportunities on east coast

Board declines PACER invitation

Auckland Council is looking to improve sea kayaking opportunities along the Mahurangi coastline, as well as in waters further south.

on existing buildings. yy A campsite between Weiti River and Long Bay to reduce the distance from Shakespear Regional Park to Takapuna Beach (currently 24km).

An invitation to the Rodney Local Board to nominate a representative on a proposed Pathway Access for Communities of East Rodney (PACER) Charitable Trust has been declined. Although board members expressed support for the concept, many felt their involvement could compromise the appointed member’s position in any decision-making matter on the project, as it progressed. Board member Tracey Martin disagreed and said numerous board members and Councillors held positions on various boards and the policy governing their involvement was quite clear regarding declaring an interest and withdrawing from discussion if it involved funding. She asked that her vote against declining the request be recorded. PACER is spearheading the development of a network of walkways and cycleways within east Rodney, which will provide alternative connectivity among the communities.

Sudoku the solution

Auckland Council is looking into opportunities to expand regional sea kayaking.

The Regional Sea Kayaking Trail was identified as one Mayor Len Brown’s first 100 days projects.

Ministry of Tourism figures from 2009 estimate that more than 100,000 people go sea kayaking in Auckland each year. Fishing from sea kayaks is also growing in popularity and waka ama is growing both as a formal sport and recreationally.

The north-east coast, from Goat Island to Takapuna, is a very popular sea kayaking area. It is relatively well serviced by existing DOC campsites, Auckland regional park campsites and bach escapes, and privately-owned or Council campgrounds.

The Auckland Canoe Club also has a formal arrangement at Mahurangi Regional Park, whereby the club upgraded and now undertakes maintenance on an existing park bach in return for its use on a number of weekends. A wide variety of trails for beginners to advanced paddlers are along the coast, around the Hauraki Gulf Islands and in and around many estuarine rivers such as the Puhoi, Mahurangi and Matakana Rivers.

Future key suggestions include: yy Improved access at Goat Island. yy A campsite on Kawau Island which would incorporate Kawau into the popular ‘east islands kayak trail’. Sunny Bay is a DOC-owned historic reserve with major maintenance requirements

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Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 17 29 BU SI N ESS F EATU R E

freshperspectives Confronting debt returns dividends Budget blowouts are common at the start of the year, as Christmas spending and regular bills coincide with extra costs like starting school. However, basic budgeting can get spending in check.

Warkworth Wellsford Budget Service senior advisor Hueline Massey says that rather than viewing budgeting as restrictive, it should be seen as a way to achieve personal goals.

The confidential service is free to anyone, and ranges from basic advice on setting a budget and sticking to it, to tailoring a detailed plan to tackle existing debt.

Single parent families are among those most under pressure, but clients come from all walks of life, including workers facing redundancy and pensioners trying to cope on superannuation. However, proactive budgeting can prevent problems developing.

Hueline says the first step is to allocate realistic amounts to cover the essentials of rent and water, power and food.

“Food is one area that people tend to try and skimp on, but a realistic food budget, that people can live healthily on, is important,” she says.

Other priorities such as insurance, health or phone costs are considered next, while a discretionary account for the likes of recreational costs or hairdresser visits is third.

Hueline recommends saving for anticipated expenses week-by-week, separating the allocated funds into an account that’s not regularly accessed and factoring in debt repayment as necessary.

“Once living essentials are paid for, clear your debt. If you don’t have debt, save it and put it

towards your next savings goal.”

Letting creditors know your circumstances can help.

“If you have a dialogue with your creditors they are much more likely to try and make an arrangement that is satisfactory to you both,” she says.

However, the budget service often has greater influence than individuals when negotiating with businesses.

Hueline warns against debt consolidation loans that can bear hefty interest and often capture debts that could be resolved with small, regular payments and no interest.

Using credit cards or buying goods through finance company loans are also counter- productive, unless you can afford to pay them off completely, before interest kicks in.

Hueline says a budget enables people to see what they can reasonably afford and “most people are sensible when they stop and think”.

“Once debt is resolved, ideally, 10 percent of your income should be put aside to act as a buffer against unexpected circumstances or bills.”

Planning ahead is vital. Joining a supermarket Christmas club or gradually putting money aside for future school costs are among effective strategies.

“The main aim of the budgeting service is to educate clients so they can manage their money better. We don’t want to be involved long-term, but clients can come back at any time as it’s easy to slip off the rails.”

Part of the NZ Federation of Family Budgeting Services, Warkworth Wellsford is one of a collective of 150 services that, in the year to June 2011, assisted

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It pays to budget, as Warkworth Wellsford Budget Service advisor Hueline Massey explains.

more than 39,000 people with debts of more than $27.5 million.

Info: www.familybudgeting.org.nz, free-phone 0508 BUDGETLINE (0508 283 438) or call Warkworth Wellsford Budget Service 423 7123.

For budgeting tips for tertiary students see this story on our website www.localmatters.co.nz

30 18 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 BUSINESS FEATURE

Franchisee required

freshperspectives

in old Mitre 10 Building, Queen Street, Warkworth.

by Richard Gerard, advisor

for Bakers Delight Warkworth Changes afoot to ACC fees Full training given. Entry price $300k.

Please contact

Scott 021 660 608 www.bakersdelight.co.nz

Withers & Co Ltd CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

23 Neville Street PO Box 113 Warkworth Phone: (09) 425 8599 Fax: (09) 425 7565 admin@withersco.co.nz www.withersco.co.nz Grant Dixon | Simon Withers | Grant Blackbourn

Serving the community for over 40 years

We Specialise in:  Taxation advice and services to businesses and farmers, large and small  Expert advice on business structures, forming companies, trusts, estate planning, wills, purchase of rental properties  Timely filing of all IRD returns and help with any IRD problems you may have  Initial interview is FREE

~ Serving the community for over 40 years ~

This year will see some big changes to ACC and some of these changes may enable your business to save money.

The Government has signalled its intention to introduce choice into ACC, probably for the work account levy. How this pans out remains to be seen but generally healthy competition leads to reduced costs.

Levy rates for 2012/13 were due to be formally confirmed at the end of last month but if the indicative rates on the ACC website are anything to go by, it looks as though there could be some significant savings. Fingers crossed on that one.

Last year, ACC introduced ‘experience rating’ for business levies. This means you pay extra or receive a discount depending on your business’s claims history, hopefully the latter.

Businesses that pay $10,000 or more in levies could receive a loading or discount of up to 50 percent. For smaller businesses, including the selfemployed, the discount or loading

is up to 10 percent. So you should benefit from reduced levies if you provide a safe work place.

Many business people have already taken advantage of ACC’s Cover Plus Extra policy. It’s an agreed value policy which means you agree with ACC to the level of compensation you’ll receive if you go on claim. You don’t have to prove loss of earnings and even if you return to work part-time, you still receive 100 percent of the agreed amount. Shareholder employees can often save money by having their work account levy rated on their actual occupation rather than that of the business.

Richard is an authorised financial adviser. His disclosure statement is available at www.dynamicsfs.co.nz or on request.

The information contained in this article is of general nature and is a guide only. Such information is not personalised financial advice and does not take into account your particular financial situation or goals. To the extent that any information constitutes financial advice, it is class advice only. If you want advice that takes into account your particular financial situation you should contact a financial Adviser.

REDT looks for way forward The Rodney Economic Development Trust, which was an advocate for businesses under the former Rodney District Council, met last December with a view to finding a new role in support of local business. Its aim is to represent businesses in a way that will complement the work of Auckland Council’s CCO, Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development. Interim chair Kate Shevland says the organisation has met with ATEED North but needs to meet with the Rodney and Hibiscus & Bays Local Boards before it will be in a position to make any decisions about its future.

Cruising expertise Travel consultant Debbie Shaw, from World Travellers Warkworth, was a finalist in the Rising Star category at the recent International Cruise Council of Australasia awards. Debbie’s award was based on her knowledge of cruising through her ongoing training, ship inspections and sales to the public.

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 19 31 BUSINESS FEATURE

freshperspectives Reducing workplace risks

By Joy Paxton, human resources manager

How big a deal is health and safety in your business or work organisation? It may be that you manage day-to-day minor scrapes, spills and incidents well. However, are you sufficiently prepared to manage a serious injury, illness or an emergency situation? These occur in NZ workplaces on a daily basis.

These events not only harm people, but can affect productivity and profitability too. Clearly there are benefits in developing a workplace health and safety programme. Costs can be relatively low when measured against the costs of accident claims, loss of productivity and profit, and absenteeism due to illness.

Likewise, when businesses need

to restructure or go through redundancies, professional guidance can be invaluable. It is vital employers follow the right process. Changes to products and services, ceasing a business, finding the business has surplus labour, contracting out services or merging or acquiring a new business are all common events when businesses plan to stay productive and profitable. However, these events are all indicators of a potential restructure or redundancy.

Time and money is wasted when misunderstandings occur; often when you are slow to recognise what the correct process is or to make sure you are fair to your employees. Why take the risk?

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Mentors help build performance Help is at hand for Rodney’s small business operators through free advice from experienced mentors.

Now in its 21st year, Business Mentors NZ (BMNZ) has helped more than 60,000 businesses and has a network of 1800 volunteer mentors available to owners of both new and established businesses that are currently trading and have fewer than 25 employees.

Rodney business mentor coordinator Carley Duncan says around 300 mentors in the region are able to assist companies in a wide range of industries, including importers and distributors, manufacturers and service providers. An online application and $100 registration fee enable business owners to access two years of mentoring at no additional cost. Regional agents match them with a suitable mentor and follow up to ensure it is a comfortable fit. Carley says business operators commonly welcome a fresh perspective from an objective observer.

“Quite often when people sign up for the service they don’t really know what’s wrong with their business,” she says. “They’re just too busy working in it rather than on it and want to know if they could operate more effectively or efficiently.”

Mentors assess the businesses and agree on an action plan with the owner. The service is confidential and once objectives have been achieved, the relationship is archived, although support remains available for up to two years.

BMNZ chief executive Ray Schofield

says there are often underlying issues preventing owners from achieving their goals.

“About 35 percent of applications are for support in sales and marketing, but if your financial performance, costings or selling price are questionable, then just selling more of the item might be the worst thing you could do,” he says.

“About half the businesses have specific challenges and the other half are looking to grow to the next stage, diversify or get involved in acquisitions. Some need help to formulate an exit process from their business, to maximise its value before it goes on the market.”

Mentors are experienced people from diverse backgrounds, who are interviewed and reference-checked prior to being appointed. Around half are retired or semi-retired, 20 percent are senior or middle managers and the other 30 percent are in commercial services. All have considerable knowledge and professional networks, and are keen to help boost small business and the economy. However, they are not there to do the work.

“The key area is implementation – a mentor walks alongside a business owner to help them understand how to use their knowledge and information to best effect,” Ray says.

Owned and operated by a charitable trust, BMNZ is funded primarily by 80 private sector businesses, with additional funding from the Ministry of Economic Development. Info: www. businessmentors.org.nz

FREE HUMAN RESOURCE REVIEW Are you keen to boost productivity and profit?

What is it that makes people work well?

Are you keen to improve your business results by improving your people performance?

Do you need a Human Resource review?

Offering one hour’s free time to check your business such as (but not limited to) Health & Safety, restructures and redundancy, employment agreements, job descriptions, email internet policies, use of company cars and credit cards, pay, holidays and leave, hiring and termination processes. (Limited time period)

Please contact Joy on 422 2290 to register your interest in a FREE HR review email: joy@peoplepluspeople.co.nz www.peoplepluspeople.co.nz

32 20 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

TEES CAPS POLOS HOODIES SAFETY WEAR SPORTS TEAM APPAREL TOWELS RAINWEAR UMBRELLAS PENS BAGS MUGS & GLASSWARE NOVELTY PROMO Aimco has you, your team or brand covered from head to toe! We manage the whole process including logo design, embroidery and screenprinting.

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SeniorNet Warkworth Learn computer skills among friends Thinking about learning to use a computer next year?

SeniorNet Warkworth offers a broad range of courses for absolute beginners onwards, using PCs or Apple Macs. Our popular Monday workshops, mini courses and specialised two-hour modules provide stimulating instruction across a wide spectrum of topics.

Membership of SeniorNet Warkworth will also keep you abreast of the rapidly developing IT world.

Contact the Course Co-ordinator on 422 3728 and we will send you an information pack with all you need to know about joining us.

Our membership of the New Zealand Federation of SeniorNet Societies is your guarantee of high standards of tuition in a friendly, relaxed environment.

For more information phone 425 9643 or email seniornetwarkworth@clear.net.nz Learning Centre, 3 Matakana Road PO Box 659, Warkworth www.seniornetwarkworth.org.nz

• • • •

The law with Nathaniel Heslop manager@wynyardwood.co.nz Wynyard Wood Lawyers & Notaries

Is your house in order?

When I was young, the Encyclopaedia Britannica was the gold standard of knowledge. Contained within 30 volumes, it provided scholarly research on more than 400,000 indexed topics. Today, my children have access to more than 16 million articles on the internet in the modern day equivalent Wikipedia. Technology has also increased people’s ability to access information about a property and made it increasingly important to put your house in order, before you put it on the market.

Failure to identify and address issues affecting your property prior to sale may result in a diminished sale price or worse, an unsaleable or undesirable asset. Under the Building Act 1991 certain types of work require a building consent to ensure sound construction practices were utilised and that the works have not adversely affected a building structure. If you are unclear on work undertaken on a property a visual inspection of the property’s external elements can help identify whether a room or deck are additions to a home. Checking plans held by Council to confirm they match the outline of the building and have the appropriate building consents will also assist in identifying works without a consent.

Sometimes it is the construction method or materials used that put off purchasers.

Plasterboard homes of late have a stigma of being undesirable and stereotyped as “leaky homes”. Vendors need to accept that there will be a smaller market of interested buyers for that type of property, even if there are not any water-tightness or structural issues. What can you do if you have undertaken work on a property, or are aware of work done to a property by a previous owner, without completing building consent requirements? Where building work was conducted before 1992, the territorial authority can issue a safe and sanitary report. This report informs an interested purchaser that the works are safe and unlikely to be a health risk and are generally accepted by purchasers and their advisors.

For works after 1992 without a building consent, property owners can apply for a Certificate of Acceptance (COA). A COA is limited in that a Council can only inspect a completed building work and certify that it has not found any obvious defects. This is not a guarantee that the work complies with the existing building code, and Council may list aspects of the work that it could not verify as complying.

A prudent purchaser will only make an offer to purchase on condition that they have the right to require the vendor to rectify any problems resulting from these issues, or cancel or terminate the agreement. It is in the interests of both parties that a vendor puts their house in order.

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Selling your home?

Buying a new home?

Buying or selling an investment property?

Refinancing?

• Dr John Gray Resident Partner • Carlene Blucher Solicitor

Insight Legal can provide friendly assistance with a wide range of Property issues together with other services including Family, Estates, Trusts, Wills, Subdivisions, Employment and Small Business Advice.

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Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 21 33 BUSINESS FEATURE

freshperspectives

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Budgeting and new goals

By Darren Knight accountant

We are all aware of what difficult financial times the entire world is currently facing with the global recession and it is appropriate to bring this down to a micro level and look at the impacts on local businesses and families. We need to find better ways that both our local businesses and families can not only survive, but possibly even grow, in what could be argued as a lot tougher environment than the financial collapse in the 1980s.

Every day I deal with small to medium businesses and individuals and I am still astounded as to how many of these people operate with absolutely no budgetary systems whatsoever. I cannot stress enough how important it is to set aside at least a few hours every month to look at what your projected upcoming costs and expenses will be.

For many businesses, the expense side of things should be relatively simple as you should know your fixed costs such as wages, rent and possibly interest on borrowings. You should also have a good handle on the smaller expenses such as stationery, subscriptions, bank charges and so on.

I do admit that income can be harder to forecast but there are some commonsense cycles that should make this job a lot easier. For example, it is relatively common for small businesses to experience low collections of cash over the January and February months due to the cash flow hangover from Christmas, and many businesses are only just returning to production in mid to late January. Therefore, when forecasting income allow for these slower months and always forecast on a conservative side rather than being overly optimistic.

When looking at your goals for the current year, have a good look at what is changing around you. For example, are you in an industry that could benefit from the shortage in the residential rental market? Are you in an industry that would benefit due to a trend of repairing capital items versus replacing? Be adaptable and ready to change and open yourself up to new ideas and challenges.

If you’re concerned that you or your business is going backwards financially or isn’t reaching its full potential, talk to your accountant or trusted business advisor. They are there to help.

Cnr Mill Lane & Elizabeth Street, PO Box 332, Warkworth 0941 P: 09 425 8008 M: 021 497 547 F: 09 425 8866 email: enquiries@warkworthrentals.co.nz www.warkworthrentals.co.nz

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34 22 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 BUSINESS FEATURE

freshperspectives We are your IT department in Snells Beach, Warkworth and the Rodney district.

Phone 09 425 4351 Email bdjkrolston@xtra.co.nz www.youritservices.co.nz

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End of an era and beginning of a new?

By Stephanie Paxton-Penman solicitor

The end of March/beginning of April typically signifies for many the hand over of businesses.

For those selling a business there are certain legal requirements in terms of the warrantees that they provide, the tidying up of the arrangements in respect of their employees and, more often than not these days, the payment of creditors.

For those entering into business there is much excitement and anticipation and, generally speaking, costs. Sometimes this outlay of funds can mean that purchasers overlook putting in place fairly fundamental documentation, a decision which becomes costly over time.

Accordingly, while it is most important to ensure that adequate funding is in place and that agreements that are pivotal to deriving income such as employment agreements, lease of premises, funding of equipment and so on, are all in place, it is equally important to make sure that the agreements relating to the business owners are also committed to paper.

These may be: yy Shareholders agreements yy Relationship property agreements yy Insurance matters (so that if key persons become incapacitated or die the business can continue).

Disputes between shareholders (whether spouses, friends or family) are incredibly common. Equally common is the lack of arrangements between them as to what happens if one party wants out or if the unimaginable happens, where one party dies and the other is left with a start up business, trying to work out how they can possibly pay out their deceased business partner’s family.

A common misconception is the assumption that if you have shares in a company, the other shareholders have to offer them to you for sale first. This is not true. This only applies if there is a Shareholding Agreement or it is covered in a Constitution.

The other misconception is that people will do “the right thing”. The adage that “where there’s money there’s no friends” is true. Creative accounting can mean an extremely profitable business seems worthless on paper. Similarly, it

e are a reputable firm dedicated to the provision of indefectible legal services reflective of clients’ requirements

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can make a business worth little more than its assets, seem worth a million.

There are a number of ways of valuing a business, and the type of business will dictate the correct approach in terms of valuation upon dissolution.

Business is exciting. Being a business owner is exciting, but it is also extremely hard work. This hard work only pays off if the business is successful and if parties can exit amicably in an ordered way, without the need to engage people such as this writer.

So whether you are in business currently or whether you are entering into a new business, it is important that you look at the documentation that you have in place. Ensure that if you ever want to exit the business, there is a strategy that is agreed amongst all and the end of an era allows you to begin anew in the best possible financial shape – regardless of whether the change is as a result of sale, divorce, death or any other reason.

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Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 23 35 BUSINESS FEATURE

freshperspectives CHANGING FACES n

CHANGING PLACES n

When Sally Marshall first set eyes on Damask, in the Matakana Village, she knew it was the sort of store she would love to own.

“Everything about it is so beautiful,” she says. “From the moment you walk through the doors, and catch the scent of the perfumes and soaps, you know you are in a special place.”

Before retiring to a property on the Oneriri Peninsula, Sally and her husband Grant spent a long career in television commercial production and advertising in Auckland.

“Our retirement property is stunning with more than 100 fruit and olive trees, and vast kitchen and herb gardens. But, to be honest, I was starting to get a bit bored.

“Then Grant came home one day and said he had discovered a store that would be ‘just perfect for you’.”

In mid-December, Sally took over ownership of Damask from its founder Deb Gillette.

“Customers needn’t worry though – I’m not planning any drastic changes.

Damask caters for people who want a little indulgence in their lives or for the people they care about, and this won’t change. Along with long-time employee Jo Holmes, we’ll continue to source new and exclusive gift lines, and

Drysuit manufacturer Oceandry Drysuits has relocated from Glenmore Drive Warkworth to Station Road Wellsford. Owners Paul Hayman and Glen Jones say the move means they and their staff are working closer to home and after-hours callouts now don’t involve a trip through the Dome. They are both keen divers and have been business partners for the past 12 years. Mike and Rona Glover originally started Oceandry Drysuits nearly 20 years ago and Paul’s parents Nigel and Gloria ran the business before Paul and Glen took over.

“We take a lot of pride in what we do and every suit we make meets high standards of workmanship,” Paul says.

“I guess that’s why lot of our business comes from word-of-mouth.”

Drysuits, which keep divers dry allowing them to stay immersed in cold water for long periods of time, retail for around $2500. They are made of four-millimetre thick Neoprene, with a titanium lining for warmth, offering more flexibility and less buoyancy. Every drysuit is custom-made and numbered, which helps if they are stolen or lost.

“Some of NZ’s best diving conditions are in winter so a drysuit allows divers to take advantage of this,” Glen says.

“We supply a lot of government and commercial operators such as police,

Damask

Oceandry Drysuits

Sally Marshall (left) and Jo Holmes.

keep the range fresh and interesting.”

As an example, the store has recently started stocking Hamish McBeth accessories for small dogs and the luxurious Mor range of body care products.

Handmade jewellery by Tamir Zumin, of Israel, has been extremely popular along with jewellery from NZ designers Crystalp, Pam Kerr and Penny Kember, and Kiwiana charms from the Blenheim-based company Evolve.

Sally says Damask has many customers scattered throughout NZ and overseas.

“We plan to do some work on the website so that these customers can shop online with the confidence of knowing that Jo and I will look after them.”

Paul Hayman (left) and Glen Jones with a drysuit that was custom-made for a two-year-old, with a complicated heart condition.

NIWA and the NZ Navy, and a number of suits have been used in Antarctica.

Divers working on the Rena have been using them and they are also used on contaminated dive sites.”

An interesting sideline for the business has been the design and manufacture of individual injury supports. It involves a range of products, from simple wrist, knee or finger supports, to waterproof covers for prosthetics.

“We’re happy to help if we can.”

The business offers a repair and alteration service for both drysuits and wetsuits, and has a range of diving accessories in its showroom including inflatable boats and BCDs.

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36 24 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

Matakana celebrates school’s 150th year

Founding cooperative member Helen Johnson says it’ll be sad to close the door on the craft gallery this month. “The shop has showcased the work of a lot of artists over the past 25 years and I think Warkworth will be the poorer for not having this type of individual shop in the town centre. All we can really say now is ‘thanks’ to all our loyal customers.”

Warkworth Cooperative calls it a day

The Warkworth Craft Gallery, which has operated on the corner of Baxter and Neville Streets for the past 25 years, will close its doors this month.

Spokesperson for the cooperative which runs the commitment from artists has also waned. Whereas gallery, Jan Cockell, says the shop has been struggling once the cooperative had around 12 members, to survive for the past three years, but last winter was membership had dwindled to three. the final straw.

“It has become increasingly difficult to find people “Some days we’d sell nothing at all,” she said. “We really willing to staff the shop, which is open seven days tried our hardest to keep it going – even personally a week.” contributing time and money – but the cooperative Jan says that while some artists will continue to sell concept just doesn’t seem to work anymore.” their work through other outlets, for most it will be Jan said that not only have sales fallen, but the the end of any commercial return.

The opening of a Friendship Garden and the burying of a time capsule are two activities on the programme of the Matakana School Sesquicentennial (150th) Anniversary, which will be celebrated on March 10.

The day will start with registrations in the morning, followed by the official programme and welcome by principal Darrel Goosen in the afternoon. This will be followed by a photo opportunity through the decades.

One of the organisers, Stephanie McGill, says more than anything, the afternoon will be a unique opportunity for ex-pupils to mingle and meet old acquaintances, as well as present-day students and families. A picnic tea and live entertainment will be held in the evening.

Present students will place some typical 21st century school items in a time-capsule – not to be opened till the 22nd century.

Stephanie says although no-one can personally recollect 100 years ago, there are several who started school in the 1920s. Among these is Ngaire Rathe who started school at Big Omaha School, which was situated not far from Omaha Valley Road. It closed in the mid-1930s and the pupils were then enrolled at Matakana School.

Mrs Rathe has lived and worked in the Matakana area all her life and has three great-grandchildren attending the school.

Registrations are steadily arriving at the school. The school hopes people attending the reunion will bring any old photos of the school or class photos so that an archive can be established for future reference.

“Some people have written some of their memories which are great fun and very interesting. These will be collated in the commemorative booklet.”

Info: Matakana School 422 7309 or a registration form can be downloaded at www.matakanaschool. nz (follow the 150th anniversary link).

Warkworth Birth Centre

quality maternity care

ALL SERVICES ARE FREE FREE pregnancy tests Prenatal classes, birth venue & post-natal stay Own room in peaceful rural surroundings Excellent equipment and atmosphere Water birth a speciality Midwives on call at all times, and as backup Our friendly helpful postnatal staff at the birthing centre for your caregiver (LMC) For further information talk to your  Full post-natal hospital stay LMC/Midwife or Warkworth Birth Centre  24 hour Registered Nurses / Midwives to care for you and your baby  You can transfer from your birth hospital within Phone 09 425 8201 12 hours of normal birth or 24 hours following a Caesarian      

Available to all women and their caregivers

56 View Road, Warkworth www.warkworthbirthcentre.co.nz

WARKWORTH

MOTORHOMES • Caravan Sales • Motorhome & Caravan Repairs Phone Graeme 422 9339 or 027 358 0167

Stained Glass & Leadlights Stefanie Mann

Designed and constructed for domestic and commercial buildings.

Restoration work also undertaken, including china cabinet repairs.

Phone 425 7723

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 25 37

Health

Bare your legs again!

with Dr Kate Baddock

What can you do about veins?

That’s a question isn’t it? I’m sure we all have, or know someone who has, unsightly veins. Whether they are on the nose, cheeks or legs. There are ropy ones that look like snakes curling up and down your legs, and ones that look like spiders – usually on the face. There are also the networks of blue veins just under the surface of the skin, particularly on the thighs or around the ankles.

They are very common, and yet the reason they appear is somewhat complex and confusing. Veins become varicose for a number of reasons with the main one being heredity. We know that if your parent had varicose veins then, more than likely, you will too (some 10 to 15 percent of men and 20 to 25 percent of women will have varicose veins). If you become pregnant, the extra oestrogen circulating can contribute to their development, as can being on the combined contraceptive pill, but to a very much lesser extent. Other factors include excess weight and lack of exercise. Whatever the contributing cause, when the blood pools in the veins they become stretched and varicose. The blood may pool because the valves that are within the veins, particularly the deep veins, leak and don’t do their job properly in helping move the blood back toward the heart; or the blood may pool because the walls of the veins are weaker and stretch.

Once you have them, how can you get rid of them? The first thing to be aware of is that they do recur so getting rid of them will give you some respite for a number of years, but they do tend to come back. For the large tortuous ones in the legs it is important to deal with the incompetent valves (the ones that are leaking) and often they are the large ones right at the top of the thigh. This involves surgery where the incompetent valve is tied off and then the vein lower down is stripped.

Spider veins or telengiectasiae, can be injected (sclerotherapy) or treated with laser therapy. For those less severe varicose veins, compression stockings can be a real comfort and support. Varicose veins often do not require treatment, but they can be unsightly. They do need managing when they create problems with the skin – eczema and ulceration, or symptoms such as aching, swelling and tiredness.

Specialist Vein Clinic with Experience and Care

0800 085 555

www.veinandlaser.co.nz

Warkworth Medical Centre

Other Clinics: North Shore & Herne Bay

Cataract specialist in Warkworth

St John Youth invitation St John Youth programmes are re-starting the year in Wellsford. The programmes focus on teaching young people, aged six to 18 years, first aid, health care, leadership, and life skills. The classes are held at the Wellsford Ambulance Centre on Mondays at 6pm. Info: www.stjohnyouth.org.nz or call 0800 785 646.

Community Foot Services

Dr Mark Donaldson of Eye Doctors and team perform the first cataract operation in the Rodney Surgical Centre, July 2010.

Dr Donaldson, cataract specialist now performs surgery in Warkworth.

Clinic: Snells Beach Medical Centre Corner Dalton Rd & Mahurangi East Rd

Phone (09) 425 5055

WARKWORTH LIFESTYLE TRADEME LISTING 437442652

Enquiries over $750,000

He offers: • the latest technology locally at the Rodney Surgical Centre • a team of experienced local theatre staff • no need for patients to travel

A Toyota ‘No Worries’ Service Plan gives you the following benefits:

No referral necessary.

Assurance of Toyota Genuine Parts & Service

Phone Eye Doctors on 09 520 9689 to make an appointment to see Dr Donaldson at the Warkworth Medical Centre and the Rodney Surgical Centre.

Tailored Pre-Paid Servicing Protection against inflation Choice of two servicing levels Some conditions apply - please contact us to discuss further

• 4.2 acres • 3 bedrooms + study • Great views • North facing Phone 425 0252 Mobile 021 492 939

Service DDI 09 425 1090 service@wilmot.toyota.co.nz

Dr Mark Donaldson FRANZCO

Corner Whitaker Rd & Mill Lane Warkworth

Wilmot Toyota www.wilmot.co.nz

web

www.eyedoctors.co.nz

call

(09) 520 9689

38 26 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

sweet appreciation

Congratulations to Lindell and Bruce Ferguson, of Kaiwaka, who have received a hamper from Chocolate Brown, in Warkworth.

Sharlene Tornquist writes …I would like to acknowledge all the time and effort Lindell and Bruce Ferguson put into our community. Over the last few years I have watched Bruce happily help anyone when the need has arisen, even in the middle of the night. Although Bruce is running a business fulltime he does not hesitate to help when called. When we had the floods, he was out in the middle of the night towing people out with his tractor.

When tonnes of milk had to be dumped early last year, he was out driving through the night to support not just our local farmers, but farmers in general. When something breaks and needs to be repaired at the local primary school, Bruce is there. He has kept the town water supply going while the usual person was on holiday and he helped organise the public screening of the Rugby World Cup final on a big screen and I mean big – the side of a truck.

He is fun, inventive and cares about our community. Lindell supports Bruce in what he does, while bringing up their three children and we all know a successful man needs a good woman backing him up. She was awesome in 2010 helping with the primary school production, making the most amazing costumes. I would like to say a huge thanks to Lindell and Bruce for everything they do for our community.

chocolate brown

only the good stuff...

Cafe / Chocolaterie / Gifts Phone 09 422 2677 No 6 Mill Lane, Warkworth www.chocolatebrown.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.

Club members Angie Green and Sally Roughan with some of the quilts made for charity.

Warkworth Quilters turn 21

Members of the Warkworth Quilters Club have spent the past two years preparing for their biennial quilt show, which will be held at the Mahurangi Community Centre on March 9 and 10.

The show is also a celebration of the Hospital’s special baby units and the club’s 21st birthday. Member Sally Warkworth Birthing Centre, and even Roughan says, as always, they hope to smaller ones as memorials for stillborn amaze visitors with their handmade babies. Rest homes and hospice patients aren’t forgotten either. quilts and wall hangings.

“Our next generation of quilters, aged Sally says this year’s show will feature from six years, are also looking forward four merchants, who will have displays to putting their work on display,” Sally of fabrics, notions and threads. says. “They have been learning how “Along with bag and quilt raffles, there to sew a straight seam and they have will also be a quilt café. We are also done some amazing work.” looking forward to seeing visitors’ The display will include quilts that reactions to our 21st birthday cake members have donated to people in made of fabric.” the community who are going through The show will run from 10am to 6pm tough times. Club members also make on March 9 and from 10am to 4pm small colourful quilts for Auckland on March 10.

“We have the right people for the job” SERVICES: ▪ All residential lawnmowing & lifestyle blocks ▪ Gardening and ground maintenance ▪ Housewashing and water blasting ▪ Section clearing ▪ Landscaping and makeovers ▪ Fencing, retaining walls and decks

Phone for a free quote 0800 276 7726 or email crossco@rocketmail.com

Warkworth Picture Framers custom picture framing 15 Coquette Street, Warkworth Call now for a FREE QUOTE 425 8143 | the_littles@xtra.co.nz

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Specialising in:

Medals Memorabilia Collectables Family Heirlooms

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 27 39

localentertainment

Warkworth hosts organ recital

From left, Jon Sanders, Dave Alley and Toni Geiling will play at Whangateau.

Trio tunes in at Whangateau The eclectic acoustic sound of Jon Sanders, Dave Alley and Toni Geiling will be heard at a concert in the Whangateau Hall on March 16.

The trio, who hail from England/ and ukulele playing complements Ireland, Germany and NZ, are known Dave’s highly expressive guitar work, for their diverse selection of original captivating percussion and soulful songs, instrumental melodies, explosive vocal lines while Toni’s unique violin rhythms and spontaneous hilarity. and musical saw playing delves into As individuals they have travelled the Scandinavian, classical, gypsy and extensively, picking up influences and eastern traditions. musical styles along the way and as a Their NZ tour will feature music from trio they combine this experience to their album Continental Drift, recorded present a “tantalizing chemistry to take in Halle, Germany in 2009. The the audience into the musical cosmos”. concert starts at 8pm. Tickets are $15.

Jon’s renowned bouzouki, guitar Info: facebook.com/sandersalleygeiling

Distinguished musician Dr Indra Hughes will take the stage at the Anglican Church, Warkworth, this month in the first organ recital for 2012.

Dr Hughes received his early musical training in England, moving to New Zealand in 1995. In 2007, he became the first person in NZ to receive a doctorate of musical arts, from the University of Auckland, and later that year he was elected a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.

Dr Hughes founded the choir Musica Sacra in 1998, widely considered to be one of the finest and most successful in the country. He is well-known for his innovative musical ventures which he presents worldwide.

One of the concert organisers Lorna Laxon says music goers will remember that Dr Hughes was the accompanist for the well received performances of Handel’s Messiah sung last year by the combined choirs of Kowhai and Hibiscus Coast Singers.

“We look forward to welcoming him back to Warkworth, where his concert will include works by Byrd, Bach, Handel and Guilmant,” she says.

Keep coming back to localmatters.co.nz for regular updates, chances to have your say on local issues and online extras including picture galleries and videos.

You can also get daily updates and join the conversation on twitter @localmattersnz or Facebook MahurangiMatters and HibiscusMatters

If you would like to subscribe to our online newsletter, visit localmatters.co.nz and the subscribe button is on the right-hand side

The concert will be held in the Warkworth Anglican Church on March 18, starting at 3pm. Tickets cost $20 and are available from Warkworth iSITE or phone Daphne on 425 0570.

Visit our What’s On section at www.localmatters.co.nz for upcoming events and entertainment

www.localmatters.co.nz

Your LOCAL community newspapers in Auckland’s north Local issues, places and faces continued to capture the interest of readers on the Local Matters website last month.

Stories about a park ‘n’ ride, marina, golf club, town hall and regional parks were among the top 10 viewed in February 2012.

Dr Indra Hughes will perform in Warkworth this month.

Top 10 viewed stories in February Council procurement policies impact on regional parks Hunters introduce new dog breed Boxing scholarships offer lifeline to troubled teens Appeal puts brakes on Silverdale park ‘n’ ride Environment Court deliberates on Sandspit marina Evictions force loyal town hall tenants onto the street Developers go head-to-head over golf club land rezoning 8. Tablets taking off at Orewa College 9. Warkworth supermarket foundations defy weather 10. Leigh fishing competition puts boat prize on the line 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Mahurangi Matters 09 425 9068 • Hibiscus Matters 09 427 8188

40 28 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

Cuisine

PA S S E N G E R S E RV I C E

with Andrea Hinchco

“Hurry – Get your Jersey Boys Tickets Now”

Flavours of Africa

Saturday 5th May 2012 Get in quick to secure top class tickets Northland Tour Coming Soon – Register your interest for an itinerary

For detailed itinerary phone 09 423 7416 leabourns@xtra.co.nz • www.leabourn.co.nz

Cooking

Class Series

Thursday Evenings 5.30pm to 7.30pm Course fees: $70 per class or $150 for a series of three

Includes wine, tea or coffee, recipes, double points for any purchases and time to enjoy food prepared and to ask questions of our tutor.

Numbers are limited to ten so there will be plenty of room to enable everyone to be creative.

Pasta and Pizza with guest chef Margherita Cavari Margherita is from Moderna and prepares everything in the traditional north-centre Italian style, with a magic that you cannot learn from books. See her website www.italiancooking.co.nz.

Her classes will be hands on so bring along an apron, pasta machine if you have your own and a healthy appetite.

March 15th: Basic Pasta and Sauces; bring a your own machine, if you have one or you can use ours.

March 22nd: Pizza including how to make authentic sauce base.

March 29th: Pasta Part Two; more advanced styles and sauces.

Be on our customer list to ensure you receive advance notice and preferential booking for classes. In May, there will be sausages, pie making and a cheese course.

where Pantry meets Kitchen

Open: Mon-Fri 9-5.30pm; Sat 9-4pm; Sun 10-3pm

Email: info@tastematakana.co.nz Web: tastematakana.co.nz

www.tastematakana.co.nz

2-4 Neville Street, Warkworth Ph/Fax: 09 425 0302

My recipe book of the moment is New Moroccan by Mourad Lahlou. This treasure of a book teaches the fundamental building blocks of Moroccan cooking, with instructions on mastering the indispensable spice blends and flavours which, while essential to this cuisine, will also enhance everyday dishes.

Having just returned from a trip to Marrakech, my daughter is enthusiastic about anything Moroccan. As our lemon trees are laden each time she visits, we are presently putting down large jars of preserved lemons.

Lemons, according to Mourad, are to Moroccan cooking what soy and fish sauces are to Asian. Salty and acidic with a perfumy citrus quality, they have an unmistakable and irreplaceable flavour. They are incredibly easy to do and will be ready to use in a month. When I have perfected the process, we will be demonstrating it at one of our Foodie Fridays.

Versatile lemons

While essential for an authentic tagine, preserved lemons have many more uses.

Here are some simple ideas from Mourad.

Vegetables: Add diced preserved lemon rind to braising greens, carrots, broccoli and other like vegetables Couscous: Toss some finely minced preserved lemon rind and parsley into couscous just before serving.

Quick salsa verde: Make a topping for fish, chicken or steak by tossing chopped toasted blanched almonds, parsley and olive oil with minced preserved lemon rind.

Salads: Dice preserved lemon rind and add to any salad, particularly good when the lemons are only just a month old.

Preserved lemon puree: Coarsely chop the rinds of three preserved lemons put into blender with ½ cup water, then blend in one tablespoon extra virgin olive oil.

This will keep in glass jar in fridge, covered with a film of oil, for several months.

Mayonnaise: Combine ½ cup homemade or store bought mayonnaise with three tablespoons of lemon puree.

Devilled eggs: Scoop out yolks from six cut hard boiled eggs, mash to a smooth paste with six tablespoons of lemon puree, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, salt and freshly ground white pepper. Place back into whites and decorate with chopped chives, smoked paprika, sumac, or harissa powder.

Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens needs your help to write a book Come and take part in a new project to produce a book that captures your experience of the sculptures in the new exhibition.

Draw a picture, write a poem, take a photo, get it to us and we will choose the best to go in a new book about the Sculpture Gardens and Exhibition 2012.

(Drawing materials available at the gardens)

See your creative artwork in print!!

Tickets to visit the gardens $10 per adult, $5 per child, 5 to 15 years (under 5’s free) Visit www.sculpturegardens.co.nz, facebook or phone 09 420 5655 for more details COAST

sculpture gardens

1481 Kaipara Coast Highway (SH16) 4km north of Kaukapakapa

Warkworth & District Museum Visit the Museum – see displays of memorabilia, furniture, photographs, clothing, machinery and buildings from our colonial past. Lots to see and do for all members of the family. Browse through our Gift and Souvenir Shop.

Open Monday to Sunday 9am – 3pm Parry Kauri Park, Tudor Collins Drive (Off Wilson Road, Warkworth) Phone: 09 425 7093 | Email: warkworthmuseum@xtra.co.nz | www.wwmuseum.orconhosting.net.nz

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 29 41

localentertainment

Fruitloop fundraiser ready to rock ‘n’ roll Scotts Landing invite Organisers of this weekend’s Matakana Fruitloop fun run and walk fundraiser are predicting a spectacle of fun, fruit, wine and fantastic outfits.

The Fruitloop’s seven-kilometre trail crosses private vineyards, olive groves and orchards, with live music and wine tasting along the way.

Last year’s inaugural event saw participants dressed as fruit tarts, runner ducks, pirates, a tomato, and a host of other loopy get-ups.

This year, there will be prizes for the loopiest fruit, most quackers wine or olive-inspired costumes, craziest pirate and best costume overall, as well as a range of spot prizes and anything else that moves the judge. Organisers are encouraging participants to “think outside the box” when it comes to the costume categories.

Spokesperson Ras Sutherland says participants are encouraged to dress to to the nines.

“We’re looking forward to some fantastic creative outfits inspired by the fruit, wine and olives along the Fruitloop trail,” he says.

The second annual event is a joint initiative of the Matakana Community Group and Matakana Coast Wine Country, with all proceeds going to the Matakana to Omaha Walkway and Cycleway.

“The Matakana Fruitloop is all about community.

Once completed, the walkway and cycleway will provide the only safe walking and cycling access between Matakana Village and Omaha Beach, an area served by very busy rural roads.”

“The community support has been amazing, from the private landowners to our generous local silver sponsors Gull Matakana and Richard Wintle of Barfoot and Thompson Warkworth, John Baker of Matakana

Local sponsors Gay Smith, of Gull Matakana, and Richard Wintle, of Barfoot & Thompson Warkworth, with the Fruitloop banner in Matakana Village.

Country Park, and a host of local businesses such as Runner Duck Wine Estate and Mahurangi River Winery. The property owners and sponsors make the event possible and our Silver Sponsors this year also include two from last year, The Sound FM and Turners & Growers, along with Auckland Transport.”

The Matakana Fruitloop will be held on Saturday March 3 at Matakana Country Park. There’ll be live music from 2pm, a warm up and safety briefing at 2.40pm, and the walk and run will start at 3pm.

Entries are $15 to $30 available on the website www.matakanafruitloop.co.nz or at Gull Matakana and at the marquee on the day, until sold out.

Albertlanders’ Celebration Easter 2012 LATE REGISTRATIONS BEING ACCEPTED NOW! Programme & registration forms available at www.albertland.co.nz or from the Albertland Museum (open 1pm-3pm daily), Woody’s Winners; Wellsford Library and Kodak Express Warkworth

“Celebrating 150 years” Albertland & Districts Museum Inc, Memorial Park, Port Albert Road, Wellsford email: museum@albertland.co.nz

WALK - RUN - WINE TASTE 2pm, Saturday 3 March 2012 Matakana Country Park

A 7km charity fun run and walk through private vineyards, olive groves and orchards, with live music, wine tasting and spectacular views along the way.

After the walk or run, the food, wine and entertainment will continue at Matakana Country Park.

Composer Claire Cowan will premiere her work as the 2011 regional parks artist-in-residence at a special concert at the Scott Homestead, at Scotts Landing, on March 4. Claire’s music is flavoured by her eight-week residency, at the homestead in the Mahurangi Regional Park last year and appears on a specially produced CD titled Toast and Ghosts.

She spent the first few weeks of her residency exploring the park and local area on foot and by motorbike. She met some of the locals, took photographs that now adorn the CD cover, wrote snippets and ‘collected’ the seeds of her songs.

Claire selected mainly wooden instruments for her work including guitar, cello and piano, crediting the historic wooden homestead with her choice. She says one drawback of working so close to nature was the intrusiveness of ambient bird calls around the homestead when tracks were layered. Consequently, recording often took place at night.”

The outcome is a mix of styles with touches of Mahurangi ambience. Although mostly reflective in nature, each of the compositions has a strong momentum and a hint of the bittersweet.

Free tickets are available to Claire’s concert on March 4.

However, tickets are limited and bookings are essential. Phone 09 301 7230 The sounds of Mahurangi have influenced composer Claire Cowan’s work.

All proceeds to the Matakana to Omaha Walkway

Entries $15 to $30, enter online at www.matakanafruitloop.co.nz For photos and updates “like” our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/matakanafruitloop

Proudly supported by Mahurangi Matters • The Matakana Community Group would like to thank Matakana Country Park

42 30 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

localentertainment B OOK RE V IE W S

Open 7 Days Mon-Sat 9am-5pm • Sun & Public Holidays 10am-4pm The Village - 2 Matakana Valley Road • Matakana P: (09) 423 0315 • E: villagebookshop@paradise.net.nz www.villagebookshop.co.nz

JOIN US FOR

wine of the week Learn more each Wednesday when we feature a locally grown wine LISTEN WEDNESDAYS @ 2.30pm on TimesFM 88.9 with Liz Tay and

WIN A BOTTLE OF WINE OF THE WEEK

Reviewed by The Village Bookshop, Matakana

Gioconda by Lucille Turner This novel re-imagines the much-speculated story behind Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, also known as La Gioconda, by delving into da Vinci’s childhood and early years. Evocative and colourful, Turner’s first novel explores the psyche of the mysterious and iconoclast da Vinci in a way that begs the reader to turn the page. Following da Vinci from his childhood home in the Italian countryside to his working life in Florence and Milan, Turner paints a striking picture of the inventor, sculptor, artist, engineer and scientist that is sure to intrigue both art lovers and those with only a passing interest in art – as does her description of his interactions with the greats Botticelli and Machiavelli. The novel does only scratch the surface, but it does so wonderfully well.

Waiting For Sunrise by William Boyd It’s Vienna, 1913 and our main character, Lysander, is a young English actor who has arrived for his first appointment with an eminent psychiatrist. In the waiting room he meets an unusually beautiful woman and can’t help but be drawn to her. What follows is an affair that is both passionate and destructive. Hettie is a woman with a murky past and wartime Europe provides a fascinating backdrop to this feverish and mesmerising journey. Once again, William Boyd delivers an outstanding novel.

Local authors make their mark 2 MATAKANA VALLEY ROAD, MATAKANA VILLAGE

www.thevintry.co.nz

MARCH SPECIAL FLAVOUR

Ferrero Rocher Now picking delicious

TABLE GRAPES

(09) 423 0251

REAL FRUIT HOMEMADE GELATO HOMEMADE SORBETTO MERINGUES JAMS ESPRESSO COFFEE

Open 7 days - 9am-5pm • 17 Sharp Road, Matakana Phone 09 422 7942 • www.charliesgelato.co.nz

Know Your New Zealand …. Fishes

By Jenny & Tony Enderby

Natural history authors Jenny and Tony Enderby, of Leigh, are experienced divers and photojournalists with a number of books to their credit. Their latest publication Fishes identifies more than 80 well-known or significant species, commonly found in NZ coastal waters, as well as lakes and streams. The book uses simple language to describe each species, its habitat and habits. The descriptions are enhanced with full colour photographs on facing pages, making it an ideal guide for the layperson interested in expanding their knowledge of local fish. The book is the fifth in New Holland’s ‘Know Your …’ series, which also includes Birds, Trees, Native Plants and Insects and Spiders.

Grow It Yourself – Fruit and Nuts

By Andrew Steens

In Pt Wells gardener Andrew Steens’ new book Grow It Yourself – Fruit and Nuts the photographs alone are enough to make your mouth water. The large-format book provides an A to Z guide to growing 30 fruit and nut varieties best suited to NZ growing conditions, and is packed full of advice on how and where to plant, feeding, watering, mulching, pruning, pollination, fruit set and thinning. There are handy charts for most crops, which include harvest times, brief descriptions and the main characteristics of each variety. Integrated pest management and common pesticides for the home garden are also covered, and there are garden plans for small, medium and larger gardens, as well as orchards. Andrew has a long and distinguished career working in all aspects of horticulture, from landscaping to roles in management, production, education, consultancy and marketing.

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 31 43

localentertainment

Sandspit holds public bird-watching day Warkworth link A community bird-watching day will be held at the Sandspit Reserve on Sunday March 11, from 9am to 1pm.

The event is being organised by Sandspit SOS Inc, a group dedicated to the protection of Sandspit’s natural environment. Spokesperson Michael Taplin says Sandspit is one of the best places in the Auckland region for birdlovers to get close to 22 species, most of which have a threatened or at risk status.

“The numbers will reach a seasonal peak over the next two months, with flocks of godwits, pied stilts, oystercatchers, A Snells Beach resident recently observed two small NZ fairy terns while dotterels and solitary banded rails out walking. The NZ Fairy Tern Trust and the Department of Conservation subsequently verified the sighting. The resident said the birds were quite feeding on the sandbanks,” he says. tolerant of her and she only spotted them when they lifted off a few metres SSOSI is inviting Sandspit residents ahead of her. The NZ Fairy tern is nationally critically threatened with fewer in particular to share a morning than 40 birds remaining of what used to be a reasonably common species. The of watching and learning about most significant breeding area is at the Mangawhai Wildlife Refuge and their local birds, about plans to restore principal foraging area is the shallow estuarine waters of the harbour. SOSSI the Sandspit Reserve to a natural representative Frances Hall says their feeding resource is currently under threat habitat and make it a friendly place if extensive mangrove removal in the upper Mangawhai Harbour is consented in the Environment Court later this year. Pictured is a fairy tern at Pakiri. for everyone to enjoy, observe and Caspian terns, and with luck, the shy Grace and Annette Asher, will be photograph the birds up close.

“We have selected a day when the godwits and rare NZ dotterels feeding on hand to explain the results of the bird numbers will be at their peak. along the tide line and flying to their surveys of bird numbers, cockle and stream life studies. Rudi van der Zwaal The tide will reach 3.5 metres at roosting spots.”

10.30 am and we will be able to The group’s environmental team, will demonstrate the finer points of watch the oystercatchers, pied stilts, including Frances Hall, Dr Roger taking natural wildlife photos.

Oliver auditions The Otamatea Repertory Theatre will stage the popular Broadway show Oliver this winter. A spokesperson says are many parts for children and the show will also feature on television. Greenstone Productions is doing a series of shows on regional theatre in New Zealand, and will be filming our auditions and rehearsals for Oliver. Show performances will be in July and August. Auditions for youth roles will be held on Saturday, March 10, at 10am, at the theatre in Maungaturoto. Info: Director Peter Flower at Peter.Flower58@gmail.com.

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Honda Warkworth 10 Morrison Dr Warkworth | Ph 09 425 9498

to Echoes show An emotive exhibition of stitching and poetry, in partnership with Hospice Kaipara, is currently on show at The Kauri Museum, Matakohe.

The exhibition Echoes was created by art technology teacher Sue McLean, originally from Warkworth and now resident in Oamaru.

It depicts a mother’s tumultuous period of grief following the death of her 18-year-old son. There are 22 pieces in the exhibition, each one marking a stage in her grief.

Sue grew-up in Warkworth and is the eldest daughter of George and Lorraine Swindells, who moved to Oamaru 1998.

After finishing school at Mahurangi College, she trained as a primary teacher and spent some time in Southland.

She returned to Oamaru to teach Art Technology at Oamaru Intermediate.

Her grandmother Jean Eves (nee Belcher) was born at Ararua Matakohe and portraits of her great, great, great grandparents Henry Pulham and his wife Nicholas (nee Darroch) hang in the Warkworth Museum.

The catalogue that supports the exhibition includes poetry by Sue’s daughter Rhiannon. Both Sue and Rhiannon will be at the museum on April 10 when Hospice will hold an afternoon tea. The show finishes on April 30.

Bag a bargain with the feel-good factor

SHOP HOSPICE

Leaving home?

Furnish your flat from the Hospice garage sale 2 stores open Mon-Fri 9am-4pm; Sat 9am-1pm Warkworth Argyll Angle, Queen St behind Gaby’s Wellsford 181 Rodney Street PLUS Garage Sale every Wed 6-11am Hospice House 51 Woodcocks Rd, Warkworth

www.warkworthwellsfordhospice.co.nz

p. 425 9535

44 32 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

Maori ban Crest Energy’s Kaipara Harbour project

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Congratulations to

Kevin & Noelene Pyle Winner of the February Cut & Polish Competition

www.woodcocks.co.nz

PH: 09 4222 122

22 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth Phone: 09 425 9946 or 021 949 408 Email: collisionrepairs@xtra.co.nz www.warkworthcollisionrepairs.co.nz

Screamin’

Larkins Local Irish Band

Toe Tappin’ • Knee Slappin’ 8 till late • Saturday 17th March Irish fare available and plenty of Guinness 242 Mahurangi East Road, Snells Beach

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A political rahui will be placed over the mouth of the Kaipara Harbour on March 10, in a bid to stop Crest Energy’s plan to install 200 tidal turbines in the harbour.

A rahui is a form of tapu in Maori the legal obligation under the Treaty culture, which restricts access to, or of Waitangi to recognise and provide use of an area and its resources. The for these rights.

Kaipara Harbour Action Committee, “There are also legal obligations set up by Te Uri o Hau Settlement under section 6(e) of the Resource Trust, is leading the rahui ceremony.

Management Act that local and central Te Uri o Hau Settlement Trust fought government must uphold.” the original application to the Northland He says if the rahui is ignored, they will Regional Council (NRC) and then investigate setting up a protest flotilla. through the Environment Court, before Crest Energy has consent to initially Crest Energy was granted resource install three turbines (each at the height consent in March last year. After the of the Auckland Farmer’s Building), decision was announced, hundreds of which will be monitored over a two-year concerned residents from around the period to gauge if there are any impacts Kaipara attended public meetings in on marine wildlife, including west coast Dargaville, Wellsford and Helensville snapper stocks and Maui’s dolphin. followed by a hui at Waikaretu Marae, From there, the council will decide Pouto, in May, where the decision to whether to allow turbines to be built in place a rahui was agreed. further stages from 17 to 40, then 80 Te Uri o Hau trustee Mikaera Miru says and then to a maximum of 200. Each a rahui by iwi is a customary practice stage has to be publicly notified. that environmental law states all Mr Hopkins said in May last year, the statutory organisations must uphold. earliest date for construction on the “The rahui will apply to Crest Energy $600 million project would be two only,” he says. years away. It is estimated the turbines However, Crest Energy director will eventually generate enough energy Anthony Hopkins says the company to power an area from Albany to Cape Reinga. has a legal right to proceed.

Mr Miru says under sections 186A Members of the public are welcome to and 186B of the Fisheries Act 1996, attend the rahui ceremony, starting at if a request is made by tangata whenua 11am on the beach at the end of Pouto to the Ministry of Fisheries, they have Road on the Pouto Peninsula.

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Three palaeoclimate scientists recently met at The Kauri Museum to discuss how best to extract the most informative climate data from buried kauri tree-rings.

Dr Alan Hogg, from Waikato University, used radiocarbon dating to pinpoint the age of the trees. The museum’s resident scientist Dr Jonathan Palmer was looking at the ring-widths to identify past climate patterns such as the frequency of El Nino and La Nina events. The third scientist in the group, Dr Gerd Helle, of Potsdam, Germany, is specialised in using isotopes of oxygen and carbon to determine past temperature and moisture levels. The three are intending to work together on a particular time period of abrupt climate change.

Scaled charges The Motor Trade Association says that the recent passing of road user charges legislation is a considerable improvement in the way that charges are currently handled – but despite the progress signalled with these changes, there are some key opportunities that remain. Association spokesperson Ian Stronach says that the last ‘missing piece’ to allow for a fairer system is the adoption of a scaled system of user charges for light diesel vehicles. This would ensure that light diesel vehicles are treated fairly, and that their contribution to more cost effective fuel use and reduced emissions is more accurately reflected. The association is recommending a scaled system of charges that provides for a sliding scale for light commercial vehicles of 3500kgs and less; that way a small and highly fuel efficient 1.6 litre diesel weighing around 1550kgs is charged appropriately in comparison to a less efficient 4.2 litre diesel that weighs around 2300kgs.

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46 34 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

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The WaterSafe promotion, held outside The Warehouse, saw several dangerously outdated life jackets exchanged.

Tryathlon programme expanded The

MIGHTY

MAHU

Tryathlon

After a roaring success at our inaugural event last year, The Mighty Mahu Tryathlon at the Snells Beach reserve is back on Sunday, March 11. First time around, 100 entrants and almost as many supporters enjoyed a lively and high-spirited day, and this year will be even better. Having partnered with Auckland Transport to bring their Family Cycle Challenge to North Rodney, and with the involvement of WaterSafe Auckland, there is much more to see and do. There are events for all ages and stages, from toddlers to grown-ups. In addition to the four triathlon events, in the mix are cycle and helmet safety checks, water safety information, an obstacle course, sausage sizzle and drinks, and spot prizes, not to mention a beautiful setting amongst the pohutukawa and sandy shore of picturesque Snells Beach.

To make the most of the high tide, registrations start at 8am and races begin at 9am, with a mini-course for under 5s. Pack a picnic or buy a sausage or two, and enjoy a fun family day with us. For more information call Mark Illingworth 425 9183 or Bridget Farmiloe 425 4546.

A collaboration with Snells Beach Warehouse over the holiday period led to a very successful water safety initiative that saw 65 used, and in some cases dangerous, lifejackets traded in for a discount on a new one. Store manager Nick Fletcher said the response was far in excess of expectations and was pleased to help.

The jackets have been donated to WaterSafe Auckland for distribution to Rodney schools to use as part of their classroom aquatic education programmes. Others have been taken apart so they can’t be used in water again and have been given to schools for classroom learning, looking at things such as materials and design. Why do some have collars? What buoyancy do the different materials provide? How well do they fit? Every school in the Rodney ward will receive a jacket for this purpose.

WaterSafe Auckland’s schools operations manager Jan Taylor says the project has two great benefits. Not only does it provide some great examples for in-classroom aquatic education, but it also ensures they are taken out of circulation, in favour of more suitable models. Four jackets have been donated to Snells Beach School, one for each of the school’s four houses: Schooner, Dories, Cutters and Scows. Some jackets “as old as the Titanic” have gone to the Voyager Maritime Museum at Auckland Viaduct.

Whether your chosen activity is boating, kayaking or land-based fishing, wearing a lifejacket is the one thing that could save your life if you fall in the water. It’s an inexpensive form of life insurance.

For more information or to become part of the Mahurangi Community Sport project please call Ruth Mills 422 9762 or email mahusport@gmail.com.

Wilmot Toyota proudly supporting The community sports coach programme

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 35 47 Sponsored by

TOTALSPAN Rodney

scoreboard

A roundup of sports activities and events in the district Wrestling

The North City Silverbacks Olympic Wrestling Club is looking for people interested in learning wrestling and grappling skills for rugby. Sessions will be held on a Thursday afternoon at the Mahurangi College Gymnasium. Cadets and junior wrestlers aged five to 20 years from 4pm to 5pm, junior and senior wrestlers aged 18 to 55 from 5pm to 6:30pm. Info: Graham Hobman 09 426 7156 or email gbhobman. orewa@xtra.co.nz.

Gymnastics The 1973 Rodney Cricket team which beat Grafton to win the NZ Motor Corporation Trophy. From back left, Sam Sukias, Robin Bagshaw, Phil Harvill, Des Chitty, Brian Dunning, Murray Cruickshank, Ross McPherson, Brian Gardner, Ewan Matheson, John Chitty, Bill Lawie, Graham McRae, Don Dunning, Bob Edwards and Brian Gibbs

Rodney Cricket Association bowls over f irst century

Rodney Cricket Association will celebrate its centenary with a Twenty/20 match, featuring some past superstar players, at the Kaipara Flats sports ground on March 31.

Teams that have played in the Rodney NZ representatives over the decades. competition over the years have come These include Brain Dunning who from all over the district including played for Tomarata in the late 70s, Wharehine, Mangawhai, Mullet John and Murray Parker who played for Kaipara Flats in the 60s and 70s, Point, Omaha, and Ruawai.

Past president and former player and more recently Alex Tait from Graham McRae says around 10 teams Maungaturoto, and Hamish and James Marshall of Kaipara Flats. played in any one-year.

Graham says many of these players “Kaipara Flats is now at the centre of will feature in the Twenty/20 match Rodney Cricket,” Graham says. on the day. “The association is inviting The premier team plays in the everyone to come down and see these Northland Competition and they remarkable players in action. Lunch are currently the top team in the will be available prior to the game local competition, which features with presentations and a barbecue Wellsford, Pakiri and Otamatea. afterwards.”

Graham says Rodney is renowned for Info: John Stephen 09 425 8173 or its strong cricketers, with a number of 0274 820 340

Top field takes on rock challenge More than 200 competitors took part in the second annual Top of the Rock multi-sport event, held at Kaiwaka on February 12.

Competitors came from as far afield as Auckland and Whangarei, as well as plenty of local entries. Some competitors participated in the 10km run and 14km mountain bike course, while the majority entered the 10km or 5km km run or walk course.

TV3’s Money Man Brendon Johnson presided over the prizegiving. More than 80 prizes were up for grabs – placegetters got first choice from the prize table, while the remaining prizes were given out by a draw. The main spot prize of an Avanti bike was won

by Lyn Buxton.

Mangawhai Tyres kindly donated $50 for the oldest competitor. This was won by Bruce Grant, 76 years. A prize also went to the youngest competitor Savannah Anderson, 2 years old. Kaiwaka Sports Association President Evan Wright was given a gift in recognition of all the work that he and his wife Michelle had put into organising the event.

Results

Solo run & bike (male) – Jeremy Smart; Solo run and bike (female) – Hannah Cullen; Team run & bike – Brett & Jay Wallwork; 10km run (male) – Rhys Shadbolt/Mitchel Piper; 10km run (female) – Michelle Lyons.

Sponsors and the organising team were thanked for their contribution.

March is give-it-a go month at the Kaiwaka Gymnasium. Try out gymnastics as a family, every Monday from 4pm to 5pm. Cost is $5 for four classes. A participating adult must accompany children and preenrolment is essential. Info: Stephanie Brown 021 180 3821 or email gymnasticsotamatea@gmail.com.

Croquet

Warkworth and Districts Croquet Club plays Association Croquet on the lawns at Point Wells on: Saturday 9.30am; Monday 4pm; Wednesday 9.30am and 1pm. Golf croquet is played on Saturday at 1pm; Monday 9.30am; Thursday 4pm. Club Captain Anne Murphy 425 5211, Golf croquet captain Marion Taylor 425 6164.

Volleyball and/or ultimate frisbee

Volleyball and/or ultimate frisbee players are invited to join the regular Tuesday night competition, at Goodall Reserve Snells Beach, from 6.30pm. This is a free activity for the wider Warkworth community organised by Tom and Cathy Wolfenden. Info: Facebook ‘Warkworth Ultimate Volleyball’.

Tennis

The Rodney Junior Tennis doubles championships will be held at the Mahurangi East and Warkworth tennis centres on Saturday March 17. Age groups are 10 and below, 12 and below, 14 and below, and 15 and over. Entries close March 13. Info: Kaye Jackson: 425 6965 or kayejackson@xtra.co.nz Tryathlon

The Mighty Mahu Tryathlon and Auckland Transport Family Bike Day will be held on Sunday March 11, at the Snells Beach Reserve, starting at 9am.

Registration from 8am. Tryathlon events for all ages starting from three years to a fun category for adults. Fun cycling obstacle course, bike checks and maintenance and helmet fitting as well. Info: Mark Illingworth 425 9183 or Bridget Farmiloe 425 4546 or www.sportsground.co.nz/mahusport Netball

Warkworth Netball Club is holding its senior muster/trials on March 4 at 2pm on the Warkworth Primary School courts. Junior trials from years 1-8 will be held on March 6 and 13 at 3.30pm at the Warkworth Primary School courts. Registration forms are available from warkworthnetballclub. co or email warkworthnetballclub@hotmail.com Omaha classic

The Omaha Classic Run/Walk will be held on April 1, starting from the Fraser Reserve at the Omaha Beach Surf Club. The event will include a 2km kids dash, 5km run/walk, and a 10km run. Money raised will benefit Matakana School. Organisers say they hope to eventually turn the event into a half marathon or a duathlon event. To register online go to www.omahaclassic.co.nz List sports news by phoning Nichole on 425 9068 or email news@localmatters.co.nz

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48 36 Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 1 || Mahurangimatters

ADVERTORIAL

NEWSLETTER

from the

Principal

David Macleod

Dear Parents and Guardians Tena Koutou Katoa

We have been very pleased with the start to the new school year. Students at all levels have settled into their school routines and, despite the large construction area in the middle of our school and the resulting initial problems with access around the school site, a settled and focused work environment has quickly developed.

It has been disappointing however, to hear the new Minister for Education, Hekia Parata, advocating league tables for National Standards between primary schools (which would include our Junior Faculty). Our education system in NZ is clearly amongst the best in the world. In the PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) NZ 15 year olds consistently test in the top 5 out of the 66 developed nations involved, well ahead of Australia, UK and USA. Why then is the government so intent on taking failed educational experiments from these countries and copying them in our own?

In my opinion, introducing a high stakes publicly reported system of assessment for our primary children, could well undermine the supportive system of primary education we currently have in NZ. The testing would soon dictate what was taught and how it was taught in our primary schools. It would create a level of stress around learning for many of the students and their parents, which would be totally unnecessary, and potentially very harmful, for the education of young children of this age. Furthermore, if the results of this testing are to be publicised in this way it is likely, unfortunately, to lead to some questionable practices by some schools to boost their pass rates, as has happened in NCEA where some schools have offered multiple re-sits and re-assessments, and large numbers of the simplest unit standards available, until virtually all their students are passing. To prevent this a much more rigorous system of moderation between schools will need to be implemented and enforced than that currently in place between secondary schools. The primary teachers in NZ schools, including our Year 7 & 8 teachers at Mahurangi College, focus very strongly on creating a warm, caring learning environment in their classrooms and a love of learning in their students, which would both be put at risk if these pronouncements from the new Minister were to be implemented.

We were very pleased to recently welcome Tim O’Reilly, a leading American Software Developer and Publisher, to Mahurangi College for the 6th Annual FOO (Friends of O’Reilly) Camp. A number of NZ politicians were in attendance, including David Shearer and David Cuncliffe.

The Deputy Prime Minister, Bill English, flew up on the Friday afternoon to meet with Tim O’Reilly.

Dave Dobbyn was also an active participant in the various workshops and discussion forums on offer.

We are delighted to be working with nine other North Harbour secondary schools in what we have called HarbourNet. This is an online e-learning community where we share teachers to increase the range of subjects on offer in each school. Our e-teacher is our Head of Information Technology, Vern Dempster, who is teaching Web Design on-line to a number of students from other schools which do not offer this option. In return, 15 of our senior students are now enrolled in a range of subjects not on offer at our school, including several foreign languages.

Following the training on Great Barrier Island, at the very successful Year 13 Camp, the Peer Support programme is now off to a strong start in which the Year 13 students mentor the new Year 7 students coming into college and take them through some worthwhile, supportive and fun activities.

ISSUE 2: March 2012

important dates Thursday March 1

• Level 1 Science Trip - Waipu Caves

Monday March 5

• Class / Individual photos

Tuesday March 6

• Level 1 Art Painting Trip

Thursday March 8

• Stepping Up - Yr 11 all day

Friday March 9

• International Student Trip - Te Hana

Sunday March 11 - 14

• Level 2 Geography Trip

Monday March 12

• Harmony Group Intensive

Thursday March 15

• SLC Athletics SO Event • Year 7 - 10 Social

Monday March 19 - 20

• Yr 8 Shell fish monitoring - (Whangateau)

Lauren Vaughan & Kendra Hansen ents for Peer Support working with a group of 7C stud

Congratulations: to the following Junior Touch

players who represented North Harbour at the recent Northern Regional Touch Tournament: Lachlan Williams: NH U11 Boys Elite (placed 4th) Mariana Winiana: NH U13 mixed Elite (placed 4th) Danika McKenzie: NH U13 mixed Elite (placed 4th) Lewis Arthur: NH U13 mixed Elite (placed 4th) Tonya Botherway: NH U13 Girls Elite (placed 2nd) Tama Hawken: NH U13 Boys Development Team (placed 1st) Van Grooby: NH U13 Boys Development Team (placed 1st) Tane Pendergrast: NH U13 Boys Development Team (placed 1st) William Haughey: NH U15 Boys Development Team (placed 3rd) As reported in the last newsletter, four of our senior Touch players have been selected for NZ secondary schools Touch teams.

With all these young representative players coming through the school it seems the future of our Touch programme will continue to be very strong.

Vern Dempster, Tim O’Reilly & Nathan Torkington at FOO Camp

Tuesday March 20

• Level 2 Biology Trip - Ngaio Bay

Wednesday March 21

• Inter House Haka Challenge

Thursday March 22

• Yr 8 - Skills workshop • Attitudes Speakers Yrs 11/12/13

Friday March 23

• Christian Expo - lunchtime - Hall • Yr 8 - Skills Workshop

Monday March 26

• BOT Meeting 6.15pm

Wednesday March 28

• Interim Report issued

Friday March 31 - April 1

• Western Heights Tournament Netball/Basketball

Monday April 2

• Yr 7/8 Parent/Teacher Evening 3.45-8.00pm Hall • Level 2 PE Outdoor Education Trip

Wednesday April 4

• Yr 9-13 Parent/Teacher Evening 3.45-8.00pm Hall

New Homework Programme Launched A new homework programme for Year 7/8 students was launched last Wednesday evening.

The programme is community and school based and has two components. The compulsory school section is focussed on numeracy and literacy. The second is voluntary and community based, and is aimed at equipping students for real life experiences.

Participants complete a number of tasks to work towards bronze, silver or gold awards.

Many students have already started choosing and working on their first tasks.

Mahurangimatters 1 March2012 2012 || 2 49 37 Mahurangimatters Mahurangimatters 1 February

ADV E R TORI A L

Mahurangi College Netball Update...

Next Meeting: 12th March & Trial Dates 2012 The Netball Club has a new Chairperson, Paula Garner, as well as a new Secretary and Treasurer. If you missed the AGM and would like to have a say in how the Club is run, there is still plenty of room on the Committee.

• Our next Committee Meeting is Monday 12 March 6pm in the College Staffroom.

• Trials for Intermediate (Year 7 & 8) 2012 Season: Friday 2nd & Saturday 10th March Intermediate registration forms can be picked up from Ann Marinus and the Seniors registration forms picked up from Sandra Hawken.

Like last year, we will be offering the option of playing at either Rodney Centre or North Harbour Centre. Watch out for a netball newsletter early in the new year which will also have details of playing dates and fees.

Lots of students get headaches at school with the warm weather. This is often caused by dehydration, please make sure you bring a drink bottle to school.

Students who are unwell at school must use the nurse’s phone to ring parents and not text from their own phone.

Students are asked to stay home from school for 24 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea when unwell.

illnesses,

If you need specific medication for such as migraine or allergies etc kept at school, please see Mrs Paula Wood, School Nurse, Mahurangi College 09 4258039 ext 732 p.wood@mahurangi.school.nz

We could be looking for up to 14 Coaches and Managers in 2012, as well as a pool of Umpires, so if you are thinking you may want to help out, please get in touch with us.

Great Barrier Island Expedition 2012

and dishevelled students, staff and Thursday 2nd of February, 10:30pm saw 114 extremely exhausted five days on Great Barrier Island. parents stumble onto the Sandspit wharf to reclaim their packs, after ones with exaggerated stories of loved regale to quick Despite appearances, all were in high spirits and and bigger, the hills became bigger got blisters the of size and number The woe and high adventure. of the fevered angst was source The . mountains and the staff leaders more maniacal, with each retelling a comfy sofa, TV, hot nary with g campin basics to back the the endless hiking from dawn to dusk and shower or computer game so necessary in today’s teen world. part of the programme. It builds From the school’s point of view, it is a much valued and beneficial - who quickly bond, to collectively character, breeds resilient and independent young men and women ool Sch wi Oki at and leadership challenges ahead d ic academ san the rise to the tough physical challenge before them, and Mahu Students spreading old who is collapsing under the year 17 tled disgrun a to sell hard a It’s of them. Well, that’s the theory.

621m summit of Mt Hirakimata the about the 1,500th step of the 2,006 that lead to weight of their pack, sweating blood at 1pm, in the blistering sun at (Hobson). each of the five parties stayed at Besides tramping across and around the northern part of the island, sports club at Claris, where they the and School Okiwi at and tes Department of Conservation campsi did their Peer Support Training. in. With a lucky few also able to Along the way, there were some stunning beaches and rivers to swim locals. the kayak the Kaitoke Stream and play in a touch rugby tournament with ngi College and Okiwi School, Because of the close relationship that has developed between Mahura raked over ten truck loads of and the students happily agreed to pitch in and collectively shoveled hugely appreciated by the was which hed refurbis sand into the adventure playground that’s being along the Haratoanga them with s student Okiwi three took also group ’s Winiana local community. Mr Walkway. wouldn’t be possible without Kayaking at Kaitoke Stream Of course such a time consuming and taxing extra curricula activity who accompany the student ers volunte the passion and drive of the staff that lead it and the parent groups, so thank you to them.

. .

S

.

WORTH D

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(6-8 April)

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Register interest NOW! www.mahurangi.school.nz or Ph: 09 425 8039

dro Open on a m in .30-5.30p Thursday 3 dly, rary. Frien ib L l o o h c S t. nvironmen informal e s!

Join u

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RK

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Maori S tu

W

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Study Cen tudent

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Sesquicentennial of Education in Warkworth

ra P o u t a A ent

m

and

Te

Mahurangi College 50th Reunion

Mahurangi College Uniform Shop

Please phone the College on 425 8039 ext 739 (after hours 425 5629) To make an appointment and minimise waiting time.

If not available, leave a message and we will get back to you.

Uniform Shop H

ours

Tuesday 12:30-6p m Thursday 12:30-2p m

50 38 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

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330 Mahurangi East Road, Snells Beach • Ph 425 5806 TIDE TABLE - MARCH 2012 FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

27/02 0435 0.8 1104 3.1 1700 0.7 2319 3.0

TUESDAY

28/02 29/02 1/03 0515 0.9 0558 1.0 0042 2.8 1142 3.0 1222 2.9 0646 1.1 1739 0.8 1821 0.9 1306 2.8 2359 2.9 1907 0.9

WEDNESDAY

2/03 0131 2.7 0738 1.1 1354 2.7 1959 1.0

3/03 0227 2.7 0835 1.2 1449 2.7 2058 1.0

4/03 0327 2.7 0934 1.1 1549 2.7 2159 1.0

5/03 0426 2.8 1031 1.0 1650 2.8 2256 0.9

6/03 7/03 8/03 0520 2.9 0612 3.1 0040 0.6 1124 0.9 1216 0.7 0701 3.2 1748 2.9 1841 3.1 1306 0.6 2350 0.7 1932 3.2

9/03 0128 0.4 0750 3.4 1355 0.4 2021 3.4

10/03 0215 0.3 0839 3.5 1443 0.3 2109 3.5

11/03 0303 0.3 0928 3.5 1532 0.3 2157 3.5

12/03 0352 0.3 1018 3.5 1620 0.3 2247 3.5

13/03 14/03 15/03 0443 0.4 0537 0.5 0033 3.3 1109 3.4 1201 3.3 0634 0.7 1710 0.4 1803 0.5 1256 3.2 2338 3.4 1859 0.6

16/03 0133 3.1 0735 0.8 1354 3.0 2001 0.8

17/03 0235 3.1 0839 0.8 1456 2.9 2106 0.8

18/03 0338 3.0 0941 0.9 1559 2.9 2211 0.8

23/03 0133 0.7 0755 3.2 1354 0.7 2018 3.1 30/03 0008 2.9 0612 1.0 1232 2.8 1830 0.9

24/03 0212 0.7 0836 3.1 1434 0.6 2057 3.1 31/03 0055 2.8 0703 1.1 1320 2.7 1921 1.0

25/03 0250 0.7 0916 3.1 1512 0.6 2135 3.1 1/04 0148 2.8 0758 1.1 1413 2.7 2019 1.0

19/03 20/03 21/03 0438 3.0 0534 3.1 0003 0.8 1041 0.9 1136 0.8 0624 3.1 1701 2.9 1758 3.0 1226 0.7 2311 0.8 1850 3.0 26/03 27/03 28/03 0328 0.8 0405 0.8 0445 0.9 0954 3.1 1031 3.0 1109 2.9 1549 0.7 1626 0.7 1704 0.8 2211 3.1 2247 3.0 2326 3.0

THURSDAY

22/03 0050 0.7 0711 3.2 1312 0.7 1936 3.1 29/03 0527 1.0 1149 2.9 1745 0.9

Times for North Rodney locations differ from Auckland as below: Whangateau ...................................... HW and LW times same as Auckland.

Mahurangi.......................................... HW +2 mins, LW +12 mins Bon Accord ........................................ HW -22 mins, LW -1 min Mangawhai, Leigh, Sandspit ............. HW +5 mins, LW +5 mins.

Kaipara - Poutu Pt. ............................ HW +3hrs4mins, LW +3hrs14mins Tinopai .......................................... HW +3hrs39mins, LW +3hrs49mins Source: LAND INFORMATION NZ Tide Predictions. NZ Standard Time

MM198

MONDAY

REMEMBER TO ADD 1 HOUR FOR DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME

KAWAU BAY FISHING CLUB

16TH ANNUAL

OPEN LADIES DAY FISHING CONTEST Friday 30th & Saturday 31st March 2012 Weigh-in 2pm to 4pm Saturday at Salty Dog Inn Snells Beach

$6,000 IN CASH & PRIZES

This impressive snapper was one of many auctioned at the conclusion of the Kawau Bay Classic Fishing Contest.

Auction draws record crowd The weather put a dampener on fishing in the 2012 Kawau Bay Classic held in early last month. High winds and consequently rough seas impacted on the number of competitors and the number of fish caught.

However, a record crowd turned Results out at the Salty Dog Inn for the fish Largest kahawai, sponsored by Kevin auction and there were plenty of fish Harrison Gates Automation and for auctioneer Karl Hodgson, from Mahurangi Marine – Keith Christie Harcourts Snells Beach, to put under (2.750kg); largest trevally, sponsored

by Bruce Fleming Chemist and the hammer.

Bags of three to four fish sold for Mahurangi Marine – Emma Fell (1.785kg); largest kingfish, sponsored between $35 and $50, while the by the Kawau Bay Fishing Club was kingfish netted around $80 each. An won by Ian (9.860kg), the largest enormous 12kg snapper, caught by Snapper, sponsored by the Kawau Bay Geoff Fell, fetched $100.

Fishing Club – Geoff Fell (12.105kg); Organisers said a big ‘thank you’ to average weight, sponsored by the all the competitors for donating their Salty Dog Inn and DB Export – Kyle fish and to everyone who came along (1.4kg). Only one Junior competitor to make a bid. A total of $1670 was weighed in and that was Megan Fell raised which will be spent on a new with a 3.130kg snapper and a 1.265kg junior playground at Snells Beach trevally. This category was sponsored

by Snells Beach Dive and Fish.

School.

JB's No 1 LANDSCAPING SERVICES • PLANTING • FENCES

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PROUD TO SUPPORT SNELLS BEACH SCHOOL JOHN BETTRIDGE Phone: 09 425 4086 Mobile: 021 665 558 E-mail: john.bettridge@jbsno1.co.nz

Landscape Industries Association of New Zealand Inc.

$50 per ticket includes a meal Non fisher meals $10pp

Average Weight Snapper Trip for 2 to Rarotonga 5 nights Snapper $500 Kahawai/Trevally $300 Plus 2nd & 3rd prize in each section MYSTERY SNAPPER WEIGHT PRIZE $500 CASH

Karl Hodgson

Sales & Marketing Consultant p 09 425 4950 m 027 566 2505 e k.hodgson@xtra.co.nz Shop 15, Mahurangi East Shopping Centre, Snells Beach

Proud to support Snells Beach School

what’s on March 2012

See also Scoreboard (page 35) for sporting events

til Apr 30 Kauri Museum presents Echoes.

1 Wellsford Toy Library open day, 90 Rodney Street, 9am until 4pm.

1-3 Northland Field Days, Dargaville (see feature at localmatters.co.nz) 2 World Day of Prayer Service prepared by the women of Malaysia at Christ Church Anglican Church Warkworth, 10am.

All welcome, cup of tea to follow. Info: 422 7766.

3 Fruitloop Fun Run/Walk to raise money for Omaha-Matakana walkway/cycleway www.matakanafruitloop.co.nz (see ad & story p29) 3 Primo Amore, Old Masonic Hall, Warkworth, 7.30pm. An intimate concert of Italian Baroque music played on original instruments.

Tickets $20 (under 18s free). Info: 425 7313 or 425-9281.

3 Community snorkelling day, Goat Island, organised by DOC and partners Experiencing Marine Reserves (EMR) to mark Seaweek.

Info: Phone Sue Cameron on 425 0978.

4 Kiara’s Angel Walk, fundraiser for Child Cancer Foundation, a 7km gentle walk or cycle around Te Ara Tahuna (Orewa estuary), starts 8.45am. Info: www.angelwalk.co.nz 4 Scott Homestead concert showcasing original work by composer and artist-in-residence Claire Cowan (see story p29) 5 Bingo, every first Monday of month, upstairs New Masonic Lodge, Baxter Street, Warkworth. 7pm. Proceeds to Warkworth Museum.

7-11 Kokako Celebration Week, Tiritiri Matangi Island (see brief p6) 8 International Women’s Day dinner, with guest speaker Cr Sandra Coney QSO. Hibiscus Coast Village, Red Beach Road, at 6pm. Info: Phone Belinda on 09 421 0569. Proceeds supporting Hestia Women’s Refuge and National Council of Women.

9 Planting a winter garden course, Wellsford Community Garden 72 School Road Wellsford, 9.30am to 12.30pm. Free, but bookings essential ph 423 6082.

9-10 Warkworth Quilters Club biennial show and 21st birthday, Mahurangi East Community Centre, from 10am (see story p26) 10 Te Uri o Hau place political rahui on Kaipara Harbour to stop turbine development, starts 11am at the end Pouto Road on the Pouto Peninsula (see story p32) 10 Matakana School 150th Anniversary Celebration. Register at www.matakana.school.nz, Warkworth or Matakana information offices, email events@matakana.school.nz or call the school office on 422 7309 (see story p24) 10 Kaipara Flats Harvest Festival, 2pm- 9pm. Music, farmers market and celebration. Tickets $15. Info: kotarecountrylodge@xtra.co.nz 10-18 Art in the Woolshed, Tawharanui Regional Park (see centre pullout) 11 The Mighty Mahu Tryathlon, Snells Beach Reserve (see Sport column and ad p34) 11 Birdwatching at Sandspit, organised by SOSSI, 9am to 1pm (see story p31) 16 Sanders Alley Geiling trio, Whangateau Hall, 8pm (see story p27) 17 Leigh Fishing Contest (see story p40) 17 Sarndra Urwin talking on Animals & Spirituality Waiwera Ashram, 9 Waiwera Place, at 1pm (9.30am meditation).

Shared vegetarian lunch. Koha. Ph 426 5265 18 Organ recital, Warkworth Anglican Church, at 3pm (see story p27) 30 Warkworth Grey Power meeting, guest speakers include Sam Cummins from Going Digital and NZ First MP Tracey Martin, 10.30am, Totara Park lounge Warkworth.

31 Young Farmers regional final, Waipu. Info: localmatters.co.nz/ business (rural rodney) 31 Rodney Cricket Association centenary celebration, Kaipara Flats Sports Grounds, 1pm (see story p35) Email your events to editor@localmatters.co.nz

Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012 | 39 51

AT WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH

THE WARKWORTH RSA TWO EXCITING NEW INTERNATIONAL BEERS ON TAP

Live Music Every Friday Night No Cover Charge Featuring every Friday night in March after the $2 Meat and Grocery Raffles at 5pm

2nd March 9th March 16th March 23rd March 30th March

Chaste Embrace The best Latin and Ballroom Tall Order Hits from the 60’s to today Dave Clarke Revival 60’s Brit. Pop era hits 2 Wheel Drive A variety of Dance music Blast from the Past Rock ‘n’ Roll all night

Anyone can join the Warkworth RSA just roll up after 11am or phone 425 8568

WARKWORTH

52 40 | Mahurangimatters 1 March 2012

Tactical time for indoor bowls season

Fish comp urges ramp etiquette

Action on indoor bowling greens around North Rodney starts up again this month.

The five centres in the Mahurangi Fishermen keen on entering the Leigh area – Te Hana, Wellsford, Tomarata, Fishing Contest on March 17 can Leigh and Warkworth – are all keen to launch their boats from anywhere in recruit new members this year.

Rodney.

Rodney Indoor Bowls Association Leigh Fishing Contest president Frick president Joan Broderick says it is Atkins is encouraging fishers to launch a great sport for anyone who isn’t from other ramps in the area, to relieve “hugely active” and even people in congestion at the Leigh ramp. wheelchairs can play.

“With 500 tickets available, not “Bowls and mats are supplied, as everyone is going to be able to launch well as free coaching,” she says. “The from one spot,” he says. first day is free so people can come There are suitable ramps at several other along and see if it’s for them, with no locations including Omaha, Warkworth, obligation. All they need is a pair of Snells Beach and Algies Bay. flat-soled shoes.”

The competition starts at 3am and Joan says another plus is that fishers need to be at the Leigh Hall for competition isn’t weather-dependent. the weigh in by 3.30pm.

Rodney is part of the Northland The winner will take home a 4.85m Association and anyone playing at a Surtees fishing boat and trailer, local level has the option of going on powered by a 60hp Yamaha motor. to compete in regional and national —Sptmb2011 The event will include live music and competitions if they wish. These are bar, along with a bouncy castle and played in singles, pairs, triples and fours. lolly scramble.

Joan says she enjoys the social side of Fish will be auctioned from 4.30pm the sport.

Indoor bowlers at Te Hana joined Mavis Cooper in celebrating her 97th birthday last with funds raised going to the Auckland “There’s plenty of time to mix ‘n’ month. Mavis is a keen bowler, playing regularly at Leigh, Te Hana and Warkworth. Rescue Helicopter Trust and others. mingle and it’s a great way to make Bowling contacts Tickets are $50 for an adult and $5 for new friends.

14 years and under. All tickets include yy Te Hana Hall, Tuesday at 7pm. Info: Irene Rockell on 423 7105.

“It’s the sort of sport that you can play a hangi and juniors will receive a yy Tomarata Hall, on Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Info: Eryl Nola on 431 4965 at any level and enjoy. To be good yy Snells Beach/Warkworth – Mahurangi East Community Centre, Thursdays free gift pack. Tickets are available takes practice and concentration, and from the Leigh General Store, Leigh at 7pm. Info: Peter Rossier on 422 9903. there are plenty of young bowlers as Garage, Warkworth Sports World and well. In fact, the current national yy Te Hana hall, Friday (fortnightly). Info: Athol Adams on 423 9029.

Snells Beach Dive and Fish, or phone yy Leigh Hall every Thursday, starting at 1pm. Info: Joan Broderick 422 6442. 422 6780. singles champion is an 18-year-old.”

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