Savvy October 2016

INSPIRED BY NORTHLAND

OCTOBER 2016

The Wilson sisters are inspiring as they humbly share their story with us and live their dreams

Plus our people | health | home trends | giveaways

window shopping 1

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STORYTIME: AWARD-WINNING BOOKS AND TOYS

COMMUNITY EDUCATION WHANGAREI

INCORPORATING CLASSICS: GREAT BOOKS, GAMES AND PUZZLES

CLASSES FOR ADULTS @ KAMO HIGH SCHOOL Paint an image of fantails in their natural habitat. This iconic New Zealand bird has long been a source of inspiration for painters.

Join this one day workshop and follow the tutors detailed instructions to create your own canvas. All materials provided. Brochures available from your local library.

Looking for a great metal detector for the whole family? Bounty Hunter’s Junior Metal Detector gives you professional metal-detecting functions in a compact, lightweight package. It detects the presence of all metals to include gold, silver, brass, aluminum, iron and steel. Now on special at $175.

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For further information visit the CEW website www.cew.ac.nz.

Enquiries: cew@kamohigh.school.nz or ph 435 0889.

34 Porowini Avenue, Whangarei. 09 438-4406 www.storytime.co.nz Find us on Facebook Open 9-5 Monday-Friday, 9-3 Saturday.

4 HIMALAYAN TRADING POST NEW SEASON TOPS

These loose tops with stunning details are great for layering!

Mo Mon - Fri 9.30am-5.00pm, Sat 9am-3pm, Sun 10am-3pm Sa Ph 430 2040, 89 Cameron Street WH WHANGAREI www.himalayantradingpost.co.nz

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TRADE AID

DHURRIE RUG FOOTSTOOL

TUTUKAKA BEACH SHOP STUNNING NEW ZEALAND STERLING JEWELLERY Exquisite jewellery made of high quality sterling silver - the extensive & contemporary selection of fresh designs with a kiwi twist is sure to have pieces that suit your personal style.

Oceans Resort, Marina Road, Tutukaka.

Phone 09 434 4135 Open 7 Days 10am - 5pm www.tutukakasurf.co.nz www.facebook.com/tsbeachshop Find us on facebook

Dhurrie rugs have been made by the people of India for hundreds of years. Making a dhurrie is an intensive process—the yarn is sorted, washed, carded and then spun into thread. The yarn is then dyed and dried. The rug is hand knotted on a loom using a graph to get the desired pattern. The completed dhurrie rug is then washed and dried again. Finally the rug is cut to shape, stuffed and hand stitched to complete the beautiful stool. The outer rug is 80% jute and 20% wool and stuffed with cotton. Gorgeous and durable this footstool will be bringing colour and comfort for years to come.

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 9am – 5pm Saturday: 9am – 2pm The Strand Shopping Centre, Whangarei Phone: 438 5799 Find us on Facebook: Whangarei Trade Aid

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YOUR KITCHEN @ NORTHLAND HOSPITALITY TEA ANYONE? The Japanese Tetsubin style cast iron tea pot range is more than a great table decoration as it’s extremely practical. With superior heat distribution properties cast iron will keep tea hotter for longer. We also have a wide range of Tea Total speciality teas.

Your Kitchen @ Northland Hospitality, 106 Lower Dent Street, Whangarei Open Mon-Fri 8am-4.30pm Sat morning 9am-12pm www.northlandhospitality.co.nz 2 | SAVVY

OCTOBER 2016

contents 20

Editor’s Note

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t’s mid school holidays and as work ticks away lightly in the background, I’m enjoying the freedom of hanging out with my kids.

They are at an age now that we can really explore together.

I loved talking to the Wilson Sisters about what drives them. How important it is for them to see kids out in nature, having adventures in the real world, away from Minecraft.

As tempting as it can be to use technology as a babysitter and get stuff done, if children are not reminded about using their imagination and pushed outdoors sometimes, then something begins to die inside.

We are only children once.

I had this conversation today with a number of mothers and we were thinking back to when we grew up. There was no expectation that your parents sat and entertained us all day. We found our own fun and made up games for hours on end.

It was refreshing to hear that we have local role models like the Wilson sisters and I will be ensuring that my kids come along their path.

As the weather warms up and winter bugs shrivel, it’s a great time to make a list of all those outdoor activities you would like to tick off.

Get out there, get moving and get adventurous!

Enjoy

Philippa Mannagh - Editor Editorial

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Philippa Mannagh

email:savvy@northernadvocate.co.nz

Advertising

Yuan Zhang

email:yuan.zhang@nzme.co.nz

Photography Michael Cunningham John Stone Design

Kat Hewson

www.savvymagazine.co.nz Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/SAVVY-Magazine

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our people

Philippa Mannagh talks to Northland’s very own Wilson Sisters

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fashion

14

beauty

15 19 23

24

review

25

love it here

Malletts

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5 reasons why you’ll never pick up a razor again

27

health

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Eye Health with The Eye Centre 10 pieces of women’s wisdom with Dr Libby Fitness with Carolyn Hansen

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home trends

what people value most in a ‘perfect home’

gardening

Red Dining Review

Opera North - Showcase

food

Thai Chefs - New Thai Restaurant

books

Children’s book reviews with Storytime

motoring

Mazda CX 9: Revamped SUV leads field for team spirit

last word giveaways

Your chance to win with Octobers giveaway page

Fertilising your plants

A BREATH OF SPAIN… A TASTE OF ITALY...

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What could be better than that?

Visit weathermaster.co.nz and try the new interactive awning simulator to view your awning choice!

Solutions tailored to your requirements “Customers come first at Frazerhurst”

146 Lower Dent St, Whangarei | Ph 09 438 3986 0800 102 710 | www.frazerhurst.co.nz

Umbrellas I Awnings I Blinds I Shutters

SAVVY | 3

OUR PEOPLE 4 | SAVVY

The Wilson sisters this is what you get

BY PHILIPPA MANNAGH

K

Upon meeting these down to earth sisters, you could be mistaken for thinking you’re talking to an old friend or the girls next door. The Wilson sisters are inspiring as they humbly share their story with us and live their dreams. The fame and recognition that comes with being in the public eye wasn’t an easy choice for them to make.

When the girls were approached to star in the series, “Keeping up with the Kaimanawas” they did so for the opportunities it would bring the horses and the public awareness around the plight of these beautiful animals.

Holding their breath for the typical mixed comments one would expect from world audiences, they were thrilled that the majority of feedback was positive and brought incredible sponsorship opportunities.

Educating others and inspiring people to reach their dreams, this is what they love the most.

“It’s about kids having adventures and getting them off the iPad,” says Kelly.

Vicki says it is about the freedom and relationships with the horses that she adores.

“They all have different backgrounds and a new confidence that they bring.”

“We get to choose our own hours and ride all over the farm and beach doing what we love,” says Amanda.

Day to day life hasn’t changed much for Amanda and Vicki when it comes to the running of the land and daily duties. The sisters still work the horses themselves and are generally up at 6am to feed and change rugs over two hours.

At 8:00am it is breakfast time then out to shoe and ride the horses until midday.

Feeding and mucking out happens at 6:30pm and there is always something to do.

“Horses need routine,” says Vicki, “so this is all still the same.”

Amanda is similar to Vicki right now and works ten horses, often riding for half the day and the other half working on the documentary and upcoming fiction book that she is developing. The rest of her time is filled with offering lessons around the country, either clinics or camps for the public.

Kelly’s routine is slightly different, having only two horses right now. Life lead her to a career in designing and later writing so these days her focus is on her main occupation: author. With Random House keen for more books about the sisters, Kelly restricts her time on horseback and helps with overseeing and marketing duties as well.

“There is more filming and travel these days but our private life is still the same,” Amanda says.

One day upon arrival back in New Zealand, Kelly says she was looking absolutely terrible with a big black eye, hoping no one would see her, until a lady pointed her out to

OUR PEOPLE

elly, Amanda and Vicki Wilson are well known for their show jumping success, their work with New Zealand’s wild horses and more recently, the plight of the American Mustangs and Australian Brumbies.

“We get to choose our own hours and ride all over the farm and beach doing what we love”

everyone. They all agree, it’s about being real and not worrying about being perfect. They are who they are and this is why the Wilson Sisters are so loved by the public.

“This is what you get,” they laugh.

In 2015, the girls were asked to travel to the USA to compete in the Idaho 100-day Extreme Mustang Makeover.

Kelly consistently placed throughout the competition, finishing sixth overall among some of America’s top trainers, on her mare Jackie.

Due to unfortunate soundness issues with their Mustangs, Vicki and Amanda did not compete in the challenge and the busy threesome soon got bored at the ranch they were initially based from in Wyoming. In search of adventure they set out on a road trip of epic proportions, 5000 kilometres

Calling all sewers, quilters & craft buffs Whether you are into dressmaking or patchwork quilting, at Moreland Fabrics we carry almost every type of fabric you can think of and we are continuously adding new styles!

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through Western America, with no plan, nowhere to stay, seven wild horses and they had the time of their lives.

“We would talk to locals, sleep under the stars or in the trailer.”

Kelly’s new book, “Mustang Ride” and a documentary filmed and produced by Amanda are available to pre-order on their website. They highlight the extraordinary moments and the adventures that took place, including snake encounters under the horse’s legs, black bears and wild buffalo to name a few.

But when asked the weirdest experience the girls are still getting used to? Not the riding with black bears in the wilds, but the amount of proposals they now get from random stalkers, they giggle!

moreland’s fabric barn

26 Commerce St, Whangarei (behind Carpet Court)

09 430 0920

OPEN 7 DAYS

SAVVY | 5

FASHION

‘Malletts Corner’ legacy continues

Bernadette Norman vividly remembers climbing up and down the stairs in her parent’s iconic Whangarei fashion store as a two-year-old. Today, 41 years later, she still treads those same stairs on a daily basis but these days as the owner of Malletts Fashion.

B

ecause of her upbringing surrounded by clothing while helping out in her parent’s store, Bernadette has always had a strong interest in fashion and was destined to take over the business. However, that plan came sooner than expected after both her parents – Paul and Ruve Waters passed away suddenly within three months of each other in 2007.

“Dad was about to tee off on the golf course when he had sudden heart failure,” explains Bernadette. “Then, three months later on Christmas Eve, mum had a heart attack.”

Bernadette and husband Rob Norman were forced to step up their roles, hiring a nanny, who became their ‘godsend’ to look after their two little ones in the following pre-school years.

Since then, the co-owners have continued the legacy of Bernadette’s parents, whose aim was to provide mid-upper range good-quality clothing.

“My parents moved up from Rotorua to take over the business from Vin and Madge Mallet in 1976,” recalls Bernadette. “They kept the name as it had a good reputation. This site (cnr of Cameron and Bank St) has been a clothing or fabric store for well over a century.”

Indeed, since the Malletts purchased it in 1957, the corner has been known as ‘Malletts Corner’ with many a

passer-by checking out the latest mannequin display in the wrap-around windows.

“There were a few tough times over the years,” remembers Bernadette. “When some of the chain stores started coming into town. Mum and Dad didn’t want to compete with cheaper chain stores so they decided to lift above that and become higher-end.”

Bernadette and Rob have continued these principals, evolving with the times to include online shopping and introducing fresh and trendy labels to the mezzanine floor.

As well as popular brands Verge, Paula Ryan and Loobie’s Story, amongst others on the ground floor, upstairs, The Mezzanine has become a store within a store dedicated to new up-and-coming hip labels. These include the popular New Zealand Augustine and Charlo brands, for which Malletts are the only Whangarei stockists.

In 2004 they opened their second store in Kerikeri and, several years ago, Bernadette began an online store, which she regularly updates with a fashion blog.

“This has allowed us to sell our stock outside of Northland, including Australia, America and the UK.” Although she’s not sure her parents would have embraced the online shopping, it has become essential, with less foot traffic passing through the CBD, something Bernadette and Rob notice from their office windows

“My parents moved up from Rotorua to take over the business from Vin and Madge Mallett in 1976”

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three floors up.

“We still have our amazing loyal customers that have been supporting us over the years and we would like to see more people support local businesses and support our town. Even supporting chain stores as they employ locals and we all support each other. We think Whangarei has so much to offer. It’s such a beautiful place and we think we need to be proud of our town.”

MAXI GATHER WAIST DRESS (Polyester Elastane Slinky Knit )

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$159.90 EVERYDAY DRESS (Viscose Crepe)

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CROCHET DETAIL TOP

LACE SHIFT DRESS

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$119.90

(Polyester Lace)

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CULOTTE JUMPSUIT

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OVERSIZED TOP

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EMBROIDERED DRESS (Polyester Chiffon)

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ACCORDIAN BACK TOP (Polyester Chiffon)

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SLIM PRINT DRESS

SHIFT CREPE DRESS

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WHANGAREI: Cnr Bank & Cameron Sts · 09 438 2025 KERIKERI: 64 Kerikeri Rd · 09 401 7208

CROP CHIFFON TOP

(polyester Chiffon)

$99.90

SHOP ONLINE www.malletts.co.nz SAVVY | 7

BRONDE

Stylist: Ashleigh Higgins

Description: Long soft layers with face shaping, giving cut movement, with lots of shimmers of golden & bronze tones.

Book in with Ashleigh to achieve this look with a special Summer Deal of $99.00!

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Stylist: Emily Openshaw

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TEXTURE Stylist: Lisa Fisher

MOVEMENT

Description: Short choppy cuts but very feminine and soft.

Small peak a boo undercuts with lots of texture within the cut and colour. Short fringes to frame the face while keeping it modern and simple!

Description: This beautiful clean blonde for summer will be perfect. The sharp line around her jaw brings out the blonde even more, with the messy fringe and layers on the top make this look very sassy for summer.

Stylist: Katrina Wilson

CHROME NAILS

Nail Technician: Sigrid Wilson Description: For $30.00 get this exclusive new and shiny Chrome/Mirror nail art trend achieved, by using highly pigmented silver powder giving a polished look.

Inside the Strand, Whangarei

Phone 09 438 9438 www.strandsalon.co.nz

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SAVVY | 9

HAVAIANAS METALLIC/ ROSE GOLD JANDALS $25

SEPHORA BANGLE IN GOLD $16

KOORINGAL LADIES WIDE BRIM HAT $44 STELLA + GEMMA 4 WAY WRAP BRACELET $40

FUR MAGNET BRACELET $35

3 WAY WRAP BRACELET $35

MON CHATEAU TEE $58.90

STEEL BOTTEGA WEAVE HANDBAG $15

Please see in store for our full range of swimwear!

ROXY

COCONUT TELEGRAPH DRESS

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ROXY SAND TO SEA BIKINI TOP $52.99 TASSLE CROSS NECKLACE $49.90 MOONTIDE GATHERED WRAP SUIT (contours) $120

SAND TO SEA BIKINI BOTTOM $47.99

ROXY SEA SINGLET $41.99

Oceans Resort, Marina Road, Tutukaka | Ph 09 434 4135 Open 7 Days 10am - 5pm | www.tutukakasurf.co.nz www.facebook.com/tsbeachshop 10 | SAVVY

Bazaar Balloon Dress $349

Joseph Ribkoff Monet Dress $339

Moss and Spy Pippa Shift Dress $679

Explore new styles online and let us know what you love! www.polwarthdesign.co.nz

Siren White Jeans $110

Bazaar Yammy Shift Moonshine Dress $299

Robe Alyssa Top $129

Moss and Spy Celia Shift Dress $659

Sabatini Linen Wrap Dress $459

WHANGAREI Open 7 Days | Okara Shopping Centre Phone 09 438 9697 Now open till 6pm on weekdays

Siren Shirt Dress $149

Zafina Celeste Dress $149

Siren Denim Jacket $169

Zafina Boundary Dress $149

DARGAVILLE Open Mon-Sat 78 Victoria Street Phone 09 439 7341

SAVVY | 11

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BY BROOKE GIBSON

Here are my top picks to keep an eye out for:

With winter on its way out, now is the time to think of purchasing items for next winter at heavily discounted prices.

FASHION

Stock up for next winter now!

BOOTS cal Boots are perfectly practical e for winter whether they are

TUNICS -

long, short, brown, black,

These are ideal for the

heeled or flat they are are

season transition, tunics

sure fire way to finish the k. pulled together winter look.

can be worn with leggings/ tights in the cooler months

If you start looking at the

and as it starts to heat up

p sales now you can pick up p a good pair of boots for up to 70% off and a classic ys comfortable boot is always

slap on a bit of fake tan and get those legs out! Again, we have great sales here in New Zealand and tunics are something that can be worn all year round.

in fashion!

ACCESSORIES Scarves, hats and gloves are the “cream on top” to finish an outfit and also ideal for the season change as they are super easy to take off and pop in your bag as it starts to warm up during the day. My favourite is a lightweight cashmere, so beautiful and soft!

So... taking this onboard, start to plan your 2017 winter wardrobe.

One last piece of advice think “classic” this is the best way to ensure the item will not date too quickly.

These loose tops with stunning details are great for layering!

ETHICAL 100% PROFITS TO TRADING CHARITY

89 Cameron Street, Whangarei • Ph: 09 430 2040 Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 9am-2pm, Sun 10am-3pm

Shop Online: www.himalayantradingpost.co.nz

WRAP UP FOR THE

WINTER MONTHS

Exceptionally good prices, Cool new styles colours to reflect your mood.

Possum fur and Merino mix Wraps and Ponchos. Reknowned brands like Koru and Nativeworld For the biggest selection of Merino and Possum fur in the North visit Possum Trendz, opposite Unichem Kerikeri Pharmacy.

Possum Trendz | 57 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri 09 407 3527 | www.possumtrendz.co.nz

Whangarei is proud to be the home of the

TIBETAN BUDDHIST CENTRE

Jam Tse Dhargyey Ling “from which Love and Compassion flourishes”

YOU ARE MOST WELCOME Visit us and - Enjoy the spectacular views of Whangarei from our Stupa, Peace Monument. (10am - 5pm) - Take part in our Buddhist Teachings, Mediation Classes and Retreats.

- All our classes are open to everyone. It is not necessary to be Buddhist.

For more information or program details please visit www.mandala.org.nz or phone 09 435 4444 159 Parakiore Road, off Pipiwai Rd, North of Kamo SAVVY | 13

BEAUTY

5 reasons why you’ll never pick up a razor again CACI WHANGAREI TALKS TO SAVVY READERS

Dedicated to your razor? You may want to re-think this relationship. Shaving can have a number of surprising effects on you and your skin. Read on to find out about the damage it could be causing and why you may need to “breakup” with your little hair removal tool.

You’re damaging your skin each time you shave Regular shaving puts stress on our skin; showing itself in ingrown hairs and razor burn, particularly on sensitive skin. Plus, ever noticed those little red bumps that appear after shaving - that’s caused by a bacteria ridden blade! Yuck!

When you shave, hair grows back quickly and pricklythere’s another way!

We’ve all experienced just how much of a short term solution shaving can be when we notice hair re-growth just a few days after a time consuming shaving session! Not to mention, prickly, sharp re-growth!

Laser hair removal is a long term solution for unwanted hair, delivering lasting results, so you don’t have to constantly shave and deal with prickly re-growth! Laser Hair Removal works by passing a light beam through the unwanted hair area which generates heat to loosen the hair and disables the hair forming cells.

Guess how much time you’re wasting shaving your legs?

On average, women spend a whole day every year shaving their legs! That’s right, 24 hours each year just shaving! We all have busy lives with work, kids, and friends, and can definitely think of better ways to be spending this time!

LASER HAIR REMOVAL OFFER

Treat two areas for the price of one until October 31 with Caci’s laser hair removal plan!*

You’ll also never guess how much money you’re spending on constant shaving?

Razors can cost up to $25 each and dermatologists recommend replacing them after just a few uses! That could set you back over $300 a year! With laser hair removal, you can ditch the razor (and its costs!). On our laser hair removal treatment plan, we offer a range of payment options and plans starting from only $22 a week, with truly long lasting results!

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14 | SAVVY

PAYMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE INCLUDING 12 MONTHS NO PAYMENTS, NO INTEREST**

Whether it’s lifting your arm up to grab something on the supermarket shelf, or waving them around the dancefloor on a Friday night; there’s no need to be self-conscious or worry if unwanted hair is under control! Laser hair removal delivers silky, smooth, hair free skin so you can be confident no matter what situation you’re in.

Contact Caci Whangarei on 0800 458 458 to book your free consultation.

HEALTH

Top 10 pieces of women’s wisdom

BY DR LIBBY WEAVER

We all know the foundation to a healthy body is a well-balanced nutrient-rich way of eating, good hydration and regular movement, but if we look beyond that, there are many more ways we can practice optimum wellness. Our emotions and our biochemistry are just as influential when it comes to whether or not we feel energised, optimistic and nourished. Here are 10 essential pieces of women’s health wisdom, for women of all ages:

1. Take responsibility for your health.

When you say “I don’t have time” for something, what you are essentially saying is “that is not a priority for me.” How do you feel when you say to yourself that preparing a nourishing dinner is not a priority for you? The reality is we cannot compromise our nutrition and expect to still have fantastic health.

2. Gut bacteria is the basis of all health.

Do all you can to ensure oodles of good bacteria happily inhabit your gut by avoiding antibiotics (when not essential) and eating real food — especially organic bone broths, fermented foods, plenty of vegetables and nourishing fats.

3. Protect your progesterone production.

Progesterone is a powerful anti-anxiety agent, anti-depressant, diuretic and essential for our body to access fat reserves to burn for energy. Across the years of menstruation and also once past the menstruating years, the body continues to make sex hormones in numerous parts of the body including the adrenal glands. Ensure good adrenal health (see no.6 and no.7) so the body’s production of progesterone is optimal across all phases of life.

4. Love your liver by reducing its toxic load and boosting your nutrient intake with a daily green drink.

Choose organic produce, natural skincare and household products; cut down on your refined sugar and alcohol consumption.

5. Be a ‘Flexitarian’ – when it comes to both food and your life.

Not holding so tightly to ‘control’ allows for the ebbs and flows of life to move naturally without stringent rules that hold us back and stress us out. It allows for celebration and enjoyment without the residual feelings of guilt. Rigidity when it stems from fear does not serve our health in any way.

6.Activate your parasympathetic nervous system... ...your body’s natural “rest and digest” pathway, with 10 (or more) long, slow, diaphragmatic breaths each day, a regular meditation practice, restorative yoga, or Stillness Through Movement.

7. Optimise your sleep cycle... ...and reduce your “on” time by avoiding bright lights and screens at least two hours before bed.

8. Flex your “no” muscle... ...more frequently and set clear boundaries around prioritising time for yourself. Refer to no.1—if we say we don’t have time to spend doing things that nourish our soul and make us happy, what message are we sending to our body?

9. Drop the judgment.

There is a story behind every person. There is a reason why they are the way that they are. Do your best to consider this always, as it helps us to bring curiosity rather than judgment to our interactions.

10. Take time to stop and take stock of everything you have.

Science has shown that the nervous system cannot focus on more than one thing at a time so when you feel grateful you cannot be stressed.

Dr Libby’s new book Women’s Wellness Wisdom, $39.95, is available from www.drlibby.com

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For appointments phone: 09 438 3144 • www.wtp.co.nz SAVVY | 15

HEALTH

What is an anti-ageing lifestyle and are you living it?

A

BY CAROLYN HANSEN

lmost from the beginning of time, people have been looking for a fountain of youth, or at the very least a magic potion that can keep you feeling and looking forever young.

The potions usually come in a bottle, a jar or a pill - or from a surgical procedure - but as it turns out, we’ve been searching in the wrong places.

Instead of running to the a surgeon for cosmetic surgery or to the store to buy a “potion,” we should be looking no further than our workout clothes and getting back into the kitchen and cooking natural foods from scratch.

These two strategies are gaining popularity as a new lifestyle-based anti-ageing plan that can literally change what is going on with the DNA that is involved in the ageing process.

We are progressively obtaining new answers to these ageold questions and much of this new knowledge is positive and exciting as more and more people want a healthy and youthful life, the good life. The search is for a quality old age.

In the minds of some, old age itself has become a disease to be ‘cured.’ There is a kind of quest for an endless middle age as when you adopt an anti-ageing lifestyle you have a real chance of adding decades of additional happy and healthy living.

Over 30 years of research has uncovered that the more you change your lifestyle (particularly in the areas of physical activity and nutrition) the more you improve as you are in fact turning off the bad genes that lead you down the path of poor

health and instead are turning on the good genes that protect from disease and promote longevity and stellar health.

This “super wellness” is all about staying well when you are healthy. It is about building a strong disease resistant body

Most significantly, we can actually lengthen the ends of our chromosomes at regions referred to as “telomeres.”

and even if you get sick it is about finding and eliminating the cause of the disease not just manageing the symptoms.

Telomeres are likened to the little plastic ends to a shoe lace that prevents the lace from unraveling. With telomeres,

The Goals of an anti-ageing lifestyle are (at ANY age)

however, those ends get worn away with poor lifestyle habits which then lead to ageing of the cell the DNA is in.

• Healthier - above simply “not being sick” • To remain strong and energetic regardless of age

With the right lifestyle changes, you can actually alter how you age by lengthening rather than shortening the telomeres

• Slow the ageing process • Live a peak performance life

on the ends of your DNA thereby slowing or even reversing the ageing process from within.

• Improve body composition (muscle to fat ratio) • Wellness - physically, mentally and emotionally

Exercise has been associated with preventing telomere shortening, so it is clearly a very powerful anti-ageing strategy.

• Being free of - and not at risk of disease • Health span equals life span

The power of proper exercise (strengthening exercise) is that it boosts human growth hormone (HGH) production which

This is an exciting time to be alive as it’s the first time in human history we have the knowledge and tools to avoid the

is vitally important for optimal health, strength and longevity.

Vigorous physical activity (such as directly working the

worst effects of ageing.

Given new knowledge, an anti-ageing lifestyle can keep

muscle with slow, controlled adequate loading) triggers stem cells to release high concentrations of growth factors that

our bodies and minds young for much longer than has traditionally been the case.

circulate around the body giving chemical instructions to renew, repair, replace and rejuvenate ALL body cells and

You don’t need to age the way your parents and grandparents did. This is your prime! Set a new example for

tissues.

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how HOT your 60s and beyond can be.

The younger you are, the better your chances of locking in a

cells and tissues get replaced with new younger, healthier, stronger ones turning back the biological clock in your

healthy, active and enjoyable old age. Adopting an anti-ageing diet and lifestyle now will maximise your chances of enjoying

body, muscle and brain. And not just a little bit younger and stronger, but a WHOLE LOT younger and stronger.

a long and healthy life span.

Do something today your Future Self will thank you for!

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16 | SAVVY

For all of us, whatever our age, now is the time to start!

A’fare has something to suit everyone

O

ffering a quaint cottage-like feel, relaxing gardens, an outlook onto the ‘Whangarei famous’ loop and sparkling waterways, you would be pushed to find another venue that ticks so many boxes for your special day.

However, what really sets A’fare apart?

It is the outstanding quality, whether that be provided at the Hatea River venue in Whangarei or at the venue of your choice, Northland-wide.

The friendly team will manage every detail of your event, problem-solving is their skill!

They will meet with you to find out exactly what you need and then source just the right decorations or equipment.

at

Premier Venue Northland’s

Everything from the wait-staff to napkin rings, specialised menus to transportation.

Mandy Edge, aka running girl, has owned A’fare for over 35 years and her passion for excellence and value remain the same today.

You will experience this through her carefully selected staff, the level of service provided and the flavours in the food.

You will notice the faultless attention to detail and reliability that is second to none.

You will be assured that your function is in safe hands and you’ll know that you won’t be disappointed.

Catering for diverse customers including recent contracts to Fonterra, cricket, racing clubs, the local hospital, Sport Northland and many others, Mandy and her team rarely find a reason they cannot meet the customers requirements and they pride themselves on this.

Mandy is on location at some point every day to check in with her staff and the running of the business, more of an Operational Manager is her title these days.

After Labour weekend, A’fare are excited to bring back the coffee and muffin service as you pass them on the loop. A perfect spot for the kids or to get away or for some peace and quiet in a dainty setting to fuel you for the rest of the walk (or congratulate you at the end!)

Payment is gold coin donation, look out for the sandwich boards out the front and pop in to say hi!

The venue is well known for the weddings, meetings, events and staff functions that are held here and with options of a full bar, bring your own alcohol arrangements and specific food requirements there is a package to suit everyone.

A’Fare offers a unique picturesque, wedding venue in Whangarei. The indoor venue can be transformed to meet any wedding fantasy – or there is the option of a sun-drenched outdoor wedding on the green waterside site beside the Hatea River.

A’Fare prides themselves on providing delicious, gourmet fresh food with menus to suit your palate and budget.

On site and off site catering options are available within Northland.

• Weddings • Events • Business/conferences • Seminars/presentations • Private functions • Parties • Ceremonies • and More!

197 Lower Dent St, Whangarei ei

Phone 438 8329 www.afare.co.nz mandy@afare.co.nz

SAVVY | 17

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Magnificent Entrance way rocks once the ocean floorway 30 million Magnificent Entrance rocks yearsthe agoocean (give floor or take year) once 30 amillion years ago (give or take a year) Just one of ten fabulous designs to choose from

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Sold Sold Sold conditionally Sold conditionally On hold On hold

Our Vision Built Pick your own mandarins Just one of ten fabulous designs to choose from Our To develop the Quail Ridge Country Club with style and panache. Drawing onVision the rich heritage of the region for the design of all the homes, clubhouse and To develop theBeautiful Quail Ridge Club with style panache.

Drawing on the rich heritage of the region for the and design of allthereby the homes, clubhouse and care care facility. parkCountry like surroundings will and be created with extensive planting of mature specimen trees shrubs, creating an enviable facility. Beautiful park like surroundings will lifestyle be created planting mature specimen trees and shrubs, thereby creating an enviable thatwith hasextensive never before beenofavailable in this area. lifestyle that has never before been available in this area.

18 | SAVVY

Why does the same colour look so different in different rooms of your home? Resene colour expert Carolyn Atkinson explains.

T

he trend to use one colour throughout a house as an ‘anchor’ neutral has been going strong for some years. But why does that one colour look so different in different rooms? It’s all to do with which direction the room faces: north, south, east or west.

Natural light is not equal, unchanging and well behaved either. We can know intellectually that the walls, the ceiling and sometimes the floor have been painted in exactly the same colour. But late in the afternoon, the low westerly sun is throwing light and shade across the floor and washing the walls. Suddenly, the colour on the floor appears different from the ceiling, and from the window

walls where the shadows are deeper. The far wall glows

which flashes blue, green and warm grey.

with reflected sunlight. The light has changed. The colour has changed. Colour is never, ever static.

Using one colour throughout If you want to use the same neutral colour throughout

In bright daylight, yellow (and any colour that has a larger amount of yellow in it) will be seen at its best,

your home, vary its strength to cater for the different light qualities of each room. This is very easy to do with a

appearing to be brighter even than pure white. At twilight, blue-green colours come into their own, and at nightfall,

monochromatic colour palette from the Resene Whites & Neutrals range.

orange and red appear to be more intense.

In south-facing rooms used during the day, use warm

South and north-facing rooms usually work better with deeper versions of a colour while east and west

mid-toned colours. No amount of pale tints or white will make these rooms appealing because the natural light

rooms are better with the lighter variants. Accenting with colourful accessories (and mirrors where rooms are not

aspect is cool, grey or sour. Try Resene Nougat which has a subtle orange undertone or Resene Biscotti.

blessed with light) can change how a colour is seen and help it be ‘forgiven’ if it doesn’t look as good as it does

Cooler, denser colours will always work best in north-facing rooms. Because of our propensity for huge

within another space. If you want to use a true white on the walls, try soft furnishings in soft greys, charcoals and

windows and skylights that allow plentiful sun (and glare) any bright, red, orange or yellow colours will only

blacks, and metallic silver or pewter tones as this helps draw the eyes away from walls, keeping the scheme from

accentuate the heat and appear far brighter. Try Resene Half Lemon Grass for a lovely restful ambiance or Resene

looking too cold or lacking in personality.

Exceptions to the light rule

Emerge, a grey-green sea foam hue.

Complex neutrals work best in east-facing rooms

In rooms where natural light is filtered through trees growing close to the house, a green cast may appear in

illuminated by the white light of early morning. Because easterly light is so cool and clear, it may emphasise

any colour you use.

Light reflecting through opaque glass will diffuse/soften

greens and blues. Green will be seen to be very green and blues may reflect more teal. The walls in east-facing rooms

any colour. The same colour seen in a room with floor to ceiling picture windows will intensify.

will be shadowy from mid-morning onwards. Try Resene Half Spanish White which stays light even when the sun

Test your colours The best way to see how colours react in different rooms

passes and doesn’t develop too much green undertone.

Or try Resene Half Tea.

is to test them. Using Resene testpots, paint your chosen colour onto a piece of A2 card leaving an unpainted

West-facing rooms that receive the sun’s low rays will suit mid-toned muted colours as the rosy natural light will

border around the edges so your eye focuses on the reality of the colour. Move the card from wall to wall and

enhance cream, beige and taupe until they turn peach or terracotta. Any deep reds will look far brighter and

from room to room. Watch how it changes not only with the light but against other colours in the room. To see how

orangy. Blue walls may turn drab. Deeper colours will alter the least. Try Resene Chapta And Verse, a colour that

one colour will look on all four walls, roll the A2 card so the colour is on the inside, then look down into the cone

warms up and gains a sunset glow. Or Resene Timekeeper

to see how the colour will intensify once it is on all walls.

HOME TRENDS

Colour by compass

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Survey finds what people value most in a ‘perfect home’ Chiropractic Baron Medium

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It’s hard to find the perfect house. Chances are most houses you see will have most of the features you want, but not all of them, so you’ll have to compromise by focusing on the key features you want and perhaps letting go of a few less important ones.

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20 | SAVVY

HARNESS THE POWER OF THE SUN THIS SPRING

1. Open plan living areas 2. Butler’s pantry 3. Natural light 4.At least one secure car space 5. Close proximity to school, shops and transport 6. Two bathrooms minimum 7. Kitchens that flow to undercover outdoor entertaining areas 8. Level yard 9. Two plus living areas 10. Good storage “Ensuites are important across the board, as are kitchens that flow easily onto

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Headboards, wardrobes, tallboys, bedsides, dressers, bed frames and many more!

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covered outdoor entertaining areas,” said

Leaves. Stain the wood on your deck using

Rich Harvey, president of REBAA. In an ideal world, the house we live in or

the Resene Woodsman range.

To add good storage

are about to move into would have all 10 of these - but if it doesn’t, there are ways

If you’re short on storage, spend an afternoon de-cluttering your house.

that interior design can help transform the existing space to feel more like these

Once you have gotten rid of, recycled or upcycled items around the home, you’ll

features were there all along.

To add natural light

have much fewer items to keep in storage and can better manage the shelves and

Choose thin, translucent curtains in sheer fabrics as your linings. Open the

cupboards you already have.

To build a pantry

thicker outer curtain and leave the sheer lining drawn to let light into the room. Paint the walls in light, neutral colours such as Resene Double Alabaster or Resene Half Pearl Lusta. These white and cream tones will reflect the

Not all homes come with an inbuilt Butler’s pantry, but

In an ideal world, the house we live in or are about to move into would have all 10 of these

light and make it bounce around the room, in turn

thanks to the current industrial-chic trends in interior design, an open-faced pantry can still look superb in your kitchen.

Simply create a ladder shelved pantry by using wooden planks arranged onto the rungs of a ladder for a trendy, stylish metal-and-wood blend.

making the space look bigger, airier and more spacious.

For a modern home, you can stain the wood in monochromatic hues such as

For alfresco dining Although it would be lovely to have the

Resene Colorwood Pitch Black or Resene Rock Salt to complement the silver tones

kitchen directly open onto the undercover outdoor dining area, an existing deck can

of the metal ladder. Alternatively, keep the wood it’s natural earthy brown hue and

still do the trick. Set up a barbecue outside for alfresco cooking, or if your kitchen door opens onto the backyard, add paved stones

finish it in clear Resene Aquaclear to suit the ‘bring the outdoors in’ trend.

Once you have set up your open-faced

to connect the door to your decks using a

pantry, store lentils, beans, spices and

concrete paver pathway.

Spruce up the pathway by staining the

cereals by putting them in clear glass mason jars. Paint on a small patch of

concrete pavers in Resene Concrete Stain in any colour from the Resene Decks/

Resene Blackboard Paint and write the contents onto the patch using chalk for a

driveways range, especially on-trend organic styles such as Resene Autumn

cohesive industrial look to the pantry.

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SAVVY | 21

FABERS

MAKING HISTORY IN NORTHLAND

1941 1984

1984 1991

1991 1998

1998 2016

1941 Edgar Faber opened a new store in Bank St, Whangarei, Wellington store already trading.

1984 E.O Faber Ltd Bank St Closed and Peter & Raewyn Faber opened Peter Faber Interiors in Water St.

1991 Alan, Peter and Raewyn relocated business to George Courts old building on the corner of Walton & Cameron Sts.

1998 Alan & Sharon purchased the business and moved to the current site.

SHARON AND ALAN FABER Edgar Faber

abers is in celebration mode as it marks its 75th anniversary and third generation owners Alan and Sharon Faber say they are proud to be part of a locally owned and operated company that is still furnishing homes today.

Alan and Sharon Faber have carried on the name and believe the business has succeeded because of loyal customer support and their reputation for supplying affordable, high quality merchandise.

They say the company was founded on old-fashioned principles that have stood the test of time.

The Whangarei branch was established in 1941 by Edgar Oliver Faber. Alan says his grandfather was a visionary entrepreneur who was involved with numerous business enterprises.

He was originally a tea importer but also dabbled in the farming and machinery industries. ‘‘Edgar trained as a tea taster and his first venture into business was importing tea from Ceylon, (Sri Lanka). He also ran for the mayoralty of Auckland, which he narrowly missed by a few votes.’’

In its heyday Fabers was a national identity with seven stores

located around the country thanks to foresight and increased demand for home-ware.

Alan’s father Peter joined Fabers in 1958 and bought his own innovative style to the business and had an ingenious approach when it came to advertising campaigns.

A stickler for record keeping he meticulously catalogued and archived decades of print advertising for future reference— which will be used in a window display to commemorate their birthday.

Fabers has evolved and been reformed over the years with Alan officially joining his father and mother Raewyn in 1986.

Retailing was in the blood and he had carved out a solid career in Auckland and Sydney managing a number of high profile stores. But the desire to return home was strong and eventually enabled Alan and Sharon to purchase the business in 1997.

He says there have been a lot of highlights during this period and it has been great to able to carry on the tradition of selling good quality products and providing excellent service.

Alan credits this success to excellent, knowledgeable staff and working closely with leading furniture brands like iconic company Danske Mobler and La-Z-Boy.

NORSCII

‘‘This is a very competitive industry and it changed dramatically when the importation laws were relaxed. We used to source 90 percent of our furniture from New Zealand, now it’s 70/30 however we’d still be the exception to the rule with similar outlets stocking far less New Zealand made products than us.’’

Not one to stand still Alan says they survived by diversifying and targeting the middle to upper market and focussing on interior furnishings.

Alan says he’d also like to thank his customers for their repeat business and support. Some of them have dealt with Fabers for more than 50 years and now they are dealing with second and third generation family members.

For Alan the job always remains interesting and challenging because ‘‘the only constant in retail is change.

You can’t rest on your laurels, the business must keep evolving.’’

Fabers has tackled this by keeping up with the latest furnishing fashion trends and stocks an array of designs and brands that are aesthetically pleasing and technically savvy.

It may have been 75 years since they opened but Fabers continues to lead the way when it comes to creating stunning interiors with its fabulous products.

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09 438 3679 | www.fabers.co.nz 22 | SAVVY

GARDENING

Fertilising your plants

BY ISABEL KRAUSS

N

ow that all the plants are growing vigorously, giving them some extra nutrients will ensure

continued healthy growth and encourage flowering and fruiting.

However, different plants have different nutrient requirements so be sure to give your plants the plant food they need. Fertilising correctly will encourage healthy growth and promote flowering and fruiting….. but overfertilising or using the wrong fertiliser can damage your plants!

Generally, the three major nutrients mostly used in fertilisers are Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) and they are applied in different ratios for different plants.

N - promotes leaf growth P - responsible for root growth and flower and fruit development K - maintains overall plant health, increases resistance and helps with flower and fruit development

Citrus: Citrus trees demand a high level of nutrients, particularly Nitrogen, Potassium and Magnesium. Therefore, apply a special citrus fertiliser around the dripper line of your citrus trees. If the leaves of your citrus trees are yellowing off, this can be a sign of Magnesium deficiency. Applying Epsom

salts should soon bring your citrus tree back to health!

Natives: A lot of natives are pretty hardy, but a well balanced fertiliser will still ensure healthy plant growth.

Here at Alter-Natives we generally use slow release fertiliser tablets when planting, it’s easy and cost effective and will take care of nutrients for up to 2 years! However, apart from supplying them with nutrients, conditioning the soil around the plants is always a bonus too, with gypsum being used to break up the clay.

Australian natives: A lot of Australian natives dislike a high phosphorus content, so if you do want to give them a bit of a feed, you could either feed them with a bit of lawn fertilizer or apply organic fertilisers like blood and bone or composted chicken manure!

Acid loving plants: Blue Hydrangeas, Magnolias, Vireyas, Gardenias and Camellias are all acid loving plants. Therefore, camellia and azalea fertilisers acidify the soil as well as providing the plants with the nutrients they need.

Fruit trees and veggies: Generally, fruit trees and veggies have a high demand for nutrients – especially Nitrogen. There are several ways to look after your plants, but applying some composted chicken manure will certainly give them an energy boost!

These are just some general rules of how to fertilise your plants but be sure to read the label of each fertiliser you apply and talk to your experts at Alter-Natives if you are unsure about certain plants!

CLEMATIS MONTANA ‘RUBENS’

CLIVIAS

MANUKA AND KANUKA

PLUMS

101 Kioreroa Rd sales@alter-natives.co.nz

09 974 8733

www.alter-natives.co.nz

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Let us help you put the right plant in the right place With a passion for design and an eye for colour, textures and shapes, let us help you!

Design consultations, concept and planting plans, quotes and implementation of the design. From new builds to spicing up existing gardens.

- NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL SAVVY | 23

Fantastic service, in a fun and classy atmosphere

S

itting at a cosy booth at Red Dining Restaurant, must be one of my favourite things.

There is something about the atmosphere, allowing yourself to sink into the padded seats and appreciate good food that ticks my boxes.

Tonight, the service was fantastic.

Water was poured as we made ourselves comfortable and the orders soon arrived at the table even though the place was humming with activity.

We ordered the garlic bread for starters and the lemon salt and pepper squid. Crisp fried house made squid with a hint of lemon on rocket, red onion, cherry tomatoes and cucumber served with garlic aioli. This entree hit the spot and left us wanting more.

Soon after, our mains arrived at the table and the presentation was fantastic.

I ordered the seared beef fillet served with boulangere potatoes, steamed green beans, roasted cherry tomatoes and béarnaise sauce.

Red Dining always offer a fun, classy atmosphere with a buzz about it that makes you want to stay on.

This was a beautiful dish to enjoy as the rain pelted down outside.

Food that warms your heart.

My dining partner went for the saffron seafood tagliatelle. Pan fried scallops and prawns tossed through fresh tagliatelle in a creamy saffron sauce served with fresh whole shell mussels and clams. Very different from the beef dish but satisfying all the same.

This time, we had room for dessert (well so I thought) and tried the cheesecake of the day which

happened to be Kahlua. The portion was huge so I now have half a slice waiting for my lunch in the fridge.

I love that you can take the extras home with you.

We also ordered the torte de caprice, a rich dark chocolate torte served with black forest cream and espresso ice cream, a clear favourite of the night!

Red Dining always offer a fun, classy atmosphere with a buzz about it that makes you want to stay on.

We will definitely be back for some pizza testing soon!

BOOK NOW! (09) 459 5380

Spring Menu

We can cater for large groups of 15 - 52 diners for your family & staff functions.

Our outdoor conservatory area makes for the perfect summer setting!

Open earlier for Dinner 7 Days from 5.00pm

Call (09) 459 5380 now!

www.reddining.co.nz | Reservations recommended

24 | SAVVY

Opera North Show Case 2016 Opera North presents

Showcase matinee concert

S

Introducing a selection of performances from winners of the Northland competitions

howcase is an annual concert arranged by Opera North to provide an opportunity for both new and established Whangarei and

Plus the ever popular concert of musical entertainment from the soloists and group performers of Opera North, presenting an afternoon of fun, friendship and laughter with a selection of classical and well known musical theatre numbers.

Northland singers who have been successful in the recent Northland competitions.

A great emphasis is placed on the youth members as it provides experience for them to perform in professional surroundings before a live audience. The program will also include solos, duets and chorus items for which Opera North is so renowned.

This year’s Showcase takes place in the Captaine Bougainville Theatre at Forum North on Sunday, October 30th at 2.30pm. Ticket prices are Adults $20.00, Seniors $15.00 and Children $10.00. Tickets are available through Ticketek.

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www.huanui.co.nz SAVVY | 25

FOOD

Bringing Bangkok Show Time to Whangarei

E

ver tried a ‘Naughty Pig’ or a ‘Duck in Love’?

Well now you can at Thai Chefs on Bank St. The restaurant opened at 69 Bank St (the former Bank St Social Club building) in September and manageing director and head franchiser Nattachai Changrattanachaichok (Chang) said he chose the location for the venue.

The plush leather booths remain, wrapped around the circular bar in the centre of the large room, now adorned with exquisite décor of maroon and gold ornate detail.

“I chose the building because as soon as I stepped in, I knew I could turn it into a little palace,” explains Chang.

It’s a unique, iconic building.”

Indeed it couldn’t be more different to where Chang’s venture into restaurants began. Arriving in New Zealand 16 years ago, the chef decided he’d liked to stay so asked his mother back home in Thailand to sell his car and

send over the $10,000 to purchase a caravan. He duly converted the little red caravan from where he sold Thai cuisine at the Napier markets. It was a hit and one year on, with the help of locals, Chang moved his business into a building. Soon, the thriving business outgrew the premises so it expanded into a larger building.

“As the restaurant got busier I began recruiting professional chefs from five star hotels in Thailand.

However, I support the local community and employ high school students who go on to uni and have families and then return to dine with us.

“I chose Whangarei to open another Thai Chefs restaurant because I think it is a growing city and the people here are very friendly and it’s got the drive.”

Although he has opened several franchises around the North Island, Chang is reluctant to turn his back on the community of Napier, who so readily welcomed him and his cuisine in the early days. That is where he calls home and resides with his wife and children.

Chang believes the point of difference with his Thai restaurants are his unique recipes, created himself, with their quirky names. There’s the ‘Mr Bean in Bangkok’, ‘Spicy Girl’, ‘Rock & Roll’ spring rolls, ‘Rainy Season’, ‘Bangkok Showtime’ and ‘Ocean Volcano’, to name a few, with the ‘Naughty Pig’ the best seller. He makes regular trips back home to seek out new recipes to add to the menu.

“We’ve had a very good response from customers saying they don’t have something like this in Whangarei and they’ve never tasted these dishes before. I want to say thank you to the Whangarei community for having us here.”

Thai Chefs is fully licensed and provides takeaways and

deliveries, dinner seven nights and lunches Monday-Friday.

Thai Chef’s group of restaurants were privileged to be honoured the most Prestige Award the “Thai Select PREMIUM” by the Prime Minister of Thailand during her Official Visit to NZ in 2013.

Extraordinary Different Thai Cuisine at an affordable price Come join us for a refined dining experience of Royal Thai Cuisine. We have been privileged to be awarded the Thai Select PREMIUM from the Prime Minister of Thailand in 2013 during her official visit to New Zealand. This is an honour for any Thai restaurant in the world and we live up to it!

NOW OPEN

69 Bank St, Whangarei 26 | SAVVY

LUNCH $12.50 Mon-Fri 12pm-2.30pm DINNER from $16 7 days from 5.15pm Fully Lisensed, BYO Wine only, Takeaways and Delivery 69 Bank St, Whangarei • 09 430 0145 Download our takeaway menu from wwww.thaichef.co.nz

BOOKS with

ANNEMARIE FLORIAN Annemarie Florian is an Author, Librarian and Bookseller for Storytime, storytime.net.nz

Llama Llama, Red Pyjama, by Anna Dewdney, Penguin Books $18.95 SEPARATION ANXIETY. It’s a big issue for small people.

Baby Llama gets tucked into bed and says goodnight to his mama, who goes downstairs.

Minutes later, he’s thirsty. And when Mama Llama gets distracted, Baby Llama’s impatience turns to worry, anger, fear and all-out llama drama – with all the shouting, jumping, hooting and hollering he can muster.

I love Llama, llama! I love the rhyme and suspense. I especially love the page where all Mama can do is pant, frantically out of breath.

My 2 ½ year-old grandson loves Llama, llama! He loves when Baby Llama is all covered up in his quilt with just his eyes and ears poking out. And he especially loves the final reassurance: Mama Llama’s always near, even if she’s not right here!

Gets better with every read.

The Great Piratical Rumbustification,

by Margaret Mahy, illustrated by Quentin Blake, Orion Children’s Books $17.95 How wonderful to see this outlandish story re-released.

Yo ho ho! All across the city, the pirates are getting restless and longing for some rabble-rousing.

When a retired pirate comes to babysit for the Terrapin family, they’re in for a surprise.

A fantastical, roller-coaster kind of party (Cat-in-the-Hatstyle!) ensues, to the delight of the three young Terrapin boys who’ve been hankering after adventure; and the most absurd turns of events are brilliantly played out. Begs to be read aloud to 5 to 9 year-olds.

Rumtiddlyumptious!

Fuzzy Mud, by Louis Sachar, Bloomsbury $19.95 A geeky scientist working out of his garage is seeking to invent a cheap and sustainable alternative to gasoline. Meanwhile at a nearby private school, two friends battle a new bully. Fleeing into the woods to avoid him, they come upon a puddle of ‘fuzzy mud’…

Funny and sinister. This mystery/science fiction story is an intriguing read for the intermediate years, and I’d happily recommend it to a much wider age-group, adults included.

Written by Louis Sachar, the author of the award-winning

Holes, it has a suspenseful plot with sympathetic and believable characters, resulting in a story that’s big-hearted and very satisfying.

In a world beset with bad news stories, it seems more important than ever for us to find a laugh within the pages of a book.

Tickle my funnybone with a few well-paced jokes, or show me a moment when a character does something ridiculous and tricksy to overcome some obstacle, and you’ll hear my exultant ‘yesss!!’ laugh from way-off. Then you’ll hear nothing – for I’ll be reading on….

Humour can be a great spur to reading widely and often. In particular it’s a way for less able readers to discover and explore the fabulous world of words. Funny books become a bridge for them to become comfortable with reading.

What’s more, funny books can tackle serious issues. Like the best cartoons, they make us laugh first. Then they make us think.

That’s Not a HIPPOPOTAMUS!

By Juliette MacIver and Sarah Davis, Gecko Press $29.95HB, $19.95pap How to Tell if it is a Hippopotamus: Heftythump; Grubtub; Bumblebuffer (not to be mistaken for an elephant’s trundlebumper); Flobblewaffler; Plodders; Snortgobbler; Whifflers; Peekerblobs. Such is the wealth of clues provided on the beginning endpapers of That’s Not a HIPPOPOTAMUS. Unfortunately, the clues don’t seem to help most of the kids featured inside the book to identify said HIPPOPTAMUS. Supremely over-confident, they find everything but – warthogs, skunks, snakes, and more – as they conduct their hippo search.

MacIver and Davis have previously worked together on the Marmaduke Duck series and Toucan Can! They’ve applied the same madcap energy here. Enthusiastically recommended as an exuberant read-aloud for 3 to 7 year-olds.

Amelia Bedelia Ties the Knot, by Herman Parish, HarperCollins $15.95

Such a literal character is Amelia Bedelia, taking every word at face value – break the ice, spill the beans, let the cat out of the bag, shake a leg – think about it!

In this chapter book for beginning readers, Amelia Bedelia’s aunt Mary has been popped the question, and now Amelia Bedelia has a beach wedding to help plan.

Short, fast-paced chapters, silly situations and punny wordplay result in heart-warming and hilarious antics. Newly confident readers will appreciate being wise to misunderstandings before Amelia Bedelia herself twigs to them.

Tell Us Something True,

by Dana Reinhardt, Oneworld Publications $18.95 The teenage years can be an intense time, leaving childhood behind and moving towards adulthood. Contemporary YA (Young Adult) literature reflects this intensity, being dark, often dystopian and full of difficult themes.

It’s refreshing then to come across a book that pokes the borax, and this had me smiling from the first page.

River has just been dumped by girlfriend Penny, -- “You don’t reflect, you don’t think about things. You just follow along and do what you think you’re supposed to. You don’t even try to understand yourself and your issues…” -- and he’s at a loss.

Without Penny, he doesn’t have much else going on in his life and his attempts to win her back are cringe-worthy.

A wry, revealing novel about an oblivious, lying, pathetically self-centred but ultimately likeable teenage schmuck who must work to discover a better version of himself.

BOOKS

Funny, that.

Witch’s Cat Wanted, Apply Within, by Joy H. Davidson and Nikki Slade Robinson, Scholastic $18.95 Bubbling, hissing, spitting brew, can you tell me what to do? I have a broom and a tall black hat, but my spells won’t work without a cat!

Joy Davidson won the Joy Cowley Picture Book Award with this story about a witch who decides to advertise for the position of WITCH’S CAT. Various feline applicants make their way to her door, each proving unsuitable, until in despair, the witch goes to the SPCA. There, she happens upon the purr-fect cat, ‘down on her luck and in need of a good friend’.

With playful rhythm and rhyme, and endearing illustrations, this will be a fun read at Hallowe’en for 4 to 8 year-olds.

Roald Dahl’s Whizpopping Joke Book, illustrated by Quentin Blake, Penguin Books, $14.95 A collection of silly (the sillier the better!) gags and jokes, guaranteed to raise a chuckle from human beans young and old.

Inspired by and themed around Dahling book characters, themselves so full of fun and mischief and wordplay.

BFG: What’s the difference between a symphony and a whizzpop?

Sophie: One is music to your ear and the other is music from your rear.

Q. What do Oompa-Loompas use to clean their teeth?

A. Candy floss.

The Sellout, by Paul Beatty, Oneworld Publications $27.95 The Sellout begins with the main character, a black man, before the US Supreme Court, charged with keeping a slave. What follows is a provocative commentary on race and identity in modern America.

Given the recent rise in racial tension in the US, much of it feels taboo.

It’s seriously biting satire, delivered in a slashing, rapidfire style. A style that roundly reflects the no-filter part of the American psyche (that always astonishes me!) so not a book for those who are easily offended. No political correctness here, it asks difficult questions about politics and place and would be deeply depressing if it were not so raw and irreverent.

In a recent review of New Zealanders’ reading preferences, it was revealed we like to be entertained by a book, rather than impressed by it. This 2016 Booker Shortlist nominee is hilarious, hugely entertaining, so that the reader cannot fail to be impressed. Bingo!

34 Porowini Ave, Whangarei | Ph 09 438-4406 | www.storytime.net.nz SAVVY | 27

MOTORING

CX-9 at the ‘high end’ of Mazda line up Mazda’s seven seater is packed with new features!

M

azda New Zealand has revealed its all-new CX-9 to the media in Christchurch with the sevenseater expected to make an impact on the large SUV segment.

Priced from $52,995 for the two-wheel-drive GSX and up to $62,995 for the Limited all-wheel-drive, the secondgeneration CX-9 has gained an all-new 2.5-litre turbo petrol engine SkyActiv plus AWD. The new SkyActiv engine replaces Mazda’s 3.6l V6 petrol engine and has a 20 per cent increase in fuel efficiency but produces 420Nm of torque at 2000rpms, as much as a conventional 4-ltire V8 claims Mazda.

The 2.5-litre SkyActiv engine was created to produce power in the lower range of gears for use in stop-start traffic and city driving.

The CX-9 contains many of the Japanese company’s ‘Kodo’ design features that are seen in the CX-3 and CX-5, with a

“If you need a vehicle that can fit five teenagers and all their gear bags the CX-9, would be player of the match.”

new prominent grille, giving it a more aggressive stance on the road.

Mazda New Zealand’s manageing director, Andrew Clearwater, told the media that the preference for customers when buying new vehicles was SUVs, with the large offroaders increasing in sales.

“It’s the large SUV segment that the volume is tracking at a faster rate than the two other (SUV) segments (of small and medium),” he said.

At the international reveal of the CX-9 in Los Angeles last year, Mazda’s chief engineer for the CX-9, Masashi Otsuka, told Driven that the crossover “must have an ‘x factor’, you can’t explain it but it must appeal to your emotions”.

Otsuka was also at the Christchurch event and said that the new CX-9 “is the high end of Mazda’s new car line up”.

He said a lot of thought had gone into the secondgeneration large SUV, especially the needs of the market.

While “80 per cent of the CX-9 market is North American it doesn’t mean that we didn’t look outside the North American market”, said Otsuka.

He tested a CX-9 prototype in Sydney and Melbourne and calibrated it for Australasian conditions.

Originally launched in 2006, the second-generation CX-9 is 5065mm long, 30mm shorter than its predecessor but its wheelbase has been increased by 55mm.

There are no carry over design elements or parts from the previous model while the CX-9 also has an impressive range of standard safety features, including blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic monitoring, smart city braking plus a five star Ancap rating.

The third row of seats is now easier to access that the previous model while the cabin is noticeably quieter.

If you need a vehicle that can fit five teenagers and all their gear bags the CX-9, would be player of the match.

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28 | SAVVY

26 SEPTEMBER – 4 DECEMBER 2016

T

he Whangarei Art Museum - Te Manawa Toi is

ARTS

Medicine Buddha Sand Mandala

IMAGE CREDIT: Jam Tse Dhargyey Ling Tibetan Buddhist Centre, Whangarei

path to enlightenment. Each part of the mandala is rich in symbolism and reminds the meditator of the insights, states

surroundings, as well as all beings who live there may enjoy peace, prosperity and good health. The dissolution of the

of mind and feelings he or she is trying to accomplish.

The exhibition begins with an opening ceremony on

mandala is meant to awaken in the mind the understanding of impermanence and non-attachment.

Jamyang Sherab and Ven. Karma Gyasey create an exquisite sand mandala over a period of two weeks. Born in Tibet

the 26th of September to cleanse the space and to initiate the beginning of the mandala itself viewers will be able to

Sand Mandala Timetable:

these monks became refugees upon choosing to leave their home country and families in order to study at the Sera Je

witness the creation of the mandala first hand over a period of two weeks after which the mandala will remain on display

Tuesday 27th September Day 1 Wednesday 28th September Day 2

Monastery in South India. Together they have created many sand mandalas in New Zealand.

alongside an exhibition of Thanka paintings for contemplation and meditation.

Thursday 29th September Saturday 01st October

Day 3 Day 4

A sand mandala is a two dimensional representation of an enlightened being’s place of residence and everything

On the 4th of December a dissolution ceremony will take place at the water’s edge of the Town Basin Sculpture Walk.

Sunday 02nd October Tuesday 04th October

Day 5 Day 6

that is contained within it. The mandala is an expression of the state of complete enlightenment and is used as an aid

The delicate and fragile sand mandala which is the result of many hours of work will be ‘destroyed’ and poured into the

Wednesday 05th October Thursday 06th October

Day 7 Day 8

to meditation. Witnessing a mandala creates a great store of positive energy and makes one’s mind peaceful and clear.

river as an offering to the nagas - water spirits of great wealth who are said to inhabit water. The offering is made with the

Friday 07th October Sunday 04th December

Day 9 Dissolution Ceremony 10.30am

Understanding it completely means understanding the whole

prayer that the place where the mandala was created and it’s

*Monks take a scheduled break at 12.30pm and resume at 2.00pm

honoured to be hosting Medicine Buddha Sand Mandala where the community will be given the opportunity to witness Tibetan monks Ven. Geshe

On Bank Whangarei’s Premier Florist Flowers are a thoughtful way to express feeling gs.

And Pam, with 40 years plus experience as a florist, will ensure your heartfelt wishes arrive in top condition and on time whether across town or to destinations throughout New Zealand.

Call Pam today.

Because beautiful sentiments are departing daily.

FLOWERS ON BANK

(Dorothy Anne’s Florist) 188 Bank Street, Regent, Whangarei

Phone: 438 6234 or 438 7370 SHOP ONLINE www.flowersonbank.nz SAVVY | 29

LAST WORD

If you get into strife don’t stick your head in the sand

DIANNE HARRIS is a budget advisor for the Anglican Centre

Because you asked for it, a day in the life of a Mumtrepreneur

I

t’s called the ‘ostrich problem’ feeling guilty when confronted with reality, ignoring information that can help us • Facing your fears means not avoiding things you find difficult. For example, if it looks like you’re going into debt, get advice on how best you can get things sorted. Talk to your creditors if you’re concerned about meeting payments. (This includes your bank) • Are your finances too complicated or have they gotten out of your control?

This can happen when you’re unorganized, have too many bank accounts, don’t have a budget plan, or need to start manageing your finances for the very first time.

• Be open with each other about money .Discuss the issues and try to work out a way you can deal with them together. For example, you may need to see a budget adviser together, or agree on a budget for your weekly spending. Same applies if you are dealing with finances on your own.

(If you’ve never been in this situation before you could feel embarrassed, don’t be. A budget adviser is there to help, to give advice, to liaise with debtors on your behalf, and connect you with the right organisations if necessary. There is always information on budgeting available online if you don’t want to talk about your situation.)

Recipe this month:

2 Ingredient PIZZA DOUGH

1 cup self raising flour 1 cup Greek or natural yoghurt.

Mix together to form a soft dough, more flour may be required as it is quite a wet

Divide dough into 16 pieces, roll into a ball and make an indent in the ball.

Press the cheese and meat into the dough ball and seal.

Put into a cake tin with the seam side

mix.

down and each piece touching.

Brush with oil, sprinkle with seasoning

Pizza dough as above.

and cheese.

Put in oven heated to 200°C and bake for

PIZZA BITES

Cubes of cheese, cubes of meat (i.e. salami, ham), pizza or tomato sauce.

A greased cake tin (use baking paper).

20mins until golden.

BREAKING DAD

Parenting column by Michael Botur

Standing up to bullies… but not too much MICHAEL BOTUR is a Whangarei writer.

NORTHLAND

AUTOS UR & LEIS

E

BY PHILIPPA MANNAGH, Liked Media

HOME: Pick up toddler and switch off from work.

Home for afternoon tea and play.

Kids home from school just before 4pm.

Afternoon tea for them, unpack bags and catch up.

Dinner preparation and clean up kitchen from the morning rush.

Dinner at 5pm.

Helper Dad home…

Baths, showers, nappies, homework, play time.

Feed animals.

Quiet time for kids from 6:30PM, books in bed.

Lights out between 7pm and 7:30pm.

Quick tidy up of the house.

Two ordinary super heroes trying to get the balance right!

HOME: Up at 6am.

Coffee…

Get the toddler up, changed, nappy and breakfast.

School lunches times three (half ready the night before) and work lunches for us.

School kids up and fed, dressed, chores, play by 7:15am Kids picked up for school at 7:30am.

Helper Dad goes to work.

Toddler’s bag packed and taken to home care, settled in by 8am.

WORK CHECK IN.

WORK: Often second coffee and breakfast.

Check emails and messages, reply, call back Review the list from day before of things still to be crossed off first.

Work until school pick up time (four days a week).

M

y 5 year old, Abe, approached me in the kitchen during the last school holidays.

“Daddy, a boy was mean to me,” he explained, “And he scratched me.” Abe showed me a scratch on his shin as thin as a papercut.

Within seconds I had the kid’s name, age, room number and teacher’s name and I would soon work on getting his licence plate number, eye colour and prior convictions.

Still, two factors prevented me from finding the bully’s family and exacting brutal vengeance that day.

1. It looked like Abe had scratched himself 2. I didn’t know how tough the bully’s dad was Abe had rightly brought his dispute to the Godfather, Don Daddy, but I didn’t have much evidence to go on.

Instead I got down on one knee and rhetorically asked Abe what he should do next time [NAME WITHHELD BUT I’VE GOT THE NAME IF ANYONE WANTS TO EMAIL ME mike@michaelboturwriter.com] is mean to him.

“Run away?” he suggested.

Quickly check emails from day at work and anything unfinished for the day.

Plan next day/write list/ diary time with a cup of tea.

8:30pm RELAX WITH HELPER DAD.

Shower, sleep, REPEAT. www.likedmedia.co.nz

I wanted to say, “Not in this family we don’t,” but the truth is the Boturs arrived in this country by running away from Europe.) Instead, I advised Abe to stand up to JacoNAME WITHHELD and tell the kid to his face to treat Abe with more respect.

Lame, I know, but apparently the message of Lord of the Flies is that violence is what you should NOT do. Plus, schoolyard rough ‘n tumble is apparently not cool these days and we’re expected to get our kids to play by adult rules. My son and his mates sometimes ambush one another with bear hugs until one of them squeals in pain.

I tell them to respect each other’s personal space and try to envision a bubble around each person. You can only touch another person’s body if you have consent from that person, I tell ‘em.

Randomly grabbing someone and bearhugging them is not all good.* *unless it’s the bully’s father. I can’t wait to bearhug that sonofabith.

THIS WEEKEND! ASB STADIUM, WHANGAREI SATURDAY 10AM-4PM, SUNDAY 10AM M-3PM

see www.northlandhomeshow.co.nz for site guide & exhibitor list

GRAB YOUR PASSPORT CARD AND BE IN TO WIN

THE ULTIMATE PRIZE PACK VALUED AT OVER $5,000!

Great day out for the whole family 30 | SAVVY

YOU CAN EVEN STOP FOR LUNCH!

$5 ENTRY KIDS UNDER 12 FREE

GIVEAWAYS

1

Mustang Ride

By Kelly Wilson WE HAVE 1 BOOK TO GIVE AWAY The adventures of the Wilson sisters in the American West.

From the author of the bestselling books For the Love of Horses and Stallion Challenges comes a brand new adventure, this time in the cowboy

2

country of the American West.

Having saved New Zealand’s wild

Opera North presents Showcase WE HAVE 1 DOUBLE PASS TO GIVE AWAY matinee concert

Kaimanawa horses, the Wilson sisters - Kelly, Vicki and Amanda - turn to the plight of America’s wild Mustangs. Can they tame their Mustangs in time for the

This year’s Showcase takes place in the Captaine Bougainville Theatre at Forum North on Sunday, October 30th at 2.30pm. Ticket prices are Adults $20.00, Seniors $15.00 and Children $10.00. Tickets are available through Ticketek.

Extreme Mustang Makeover?

Join Kelly, Vicki and Amanda as they ride through the American wilderness on their most exciting and eventful journey yet.

3

GIVE

aways

Trilogy Eye Contour Cream Botanicals for brighter eyes WE HAVE 1 TO GIVE AWAY

5

With our favourite change of season just around the corner, we can almost smell the beautiful perfume of

4 Women’s Wellness Wisdom WE HAVE 1 TO GIVE AWAY Being a woman is a beautiful gift – however, at times it can be easy to lose sight of this. We can often feel betrayed by our bodies, and feel as though we have no control over our thoughts, leaving us feeling like we’re grasping for air while trying to meet everyone else’s expectations. It doesn’t have to be this way.

spring flowers in the air. For many of us, though, that means irritated eyes, which is the reason Trilogy Eye Contour Cream is made with performance natural actives but no added fragrance.

Certified natural under the internationally recognised NATRUE Natural Cosmetics standard, Trilogy Eye Contour Cream is a ‘Tried and Tested’ winner in the UK’s prestigious Green Beauty Bible.

Trilogy Eye Contour Cream (20ml) RRP $51.99

to enter

Makana Very Berry Toffee Crunch & Macadamia Butter Toffee Crunch HAND-MADE CHOCOLATES Traditional toffee made with wicked amounts of real New Zealand butter, laced with macadamia chips, coated with milk chocolates on both sides and dusted with macadamia fines.

Served in serious slabs. 250g box RRP $25.00.

We have 2 x 250g boxes to giveaway.

Congratulations to our September winners: Neopol All Purpose Creme Polish Hansells Dessert Yoghurts & Yoghurt Maker

To enter the SAVVY giveaways go online www.savvymagazine.co.nz, click on

Margaret Sandford

Micellar Cleansing Water

Giveaways and fill out the form.

■ One entry per person ■ Entries close 5pm, Wednesday

Maureen Moody

Matrix Total Results Collection

26th October ■ October winners will be announced in SAVVY on Saturday, November 5th 2016.

Summer’s nearly here

Ruth Walker

Vivienne Williamson

Please collect your prize from the Northern Advocate building, 88 Robert Street (behind Pak n Save) Note: any prizes not collected within the month will be re-gifted, don’t miss out!

Exercise Bikes

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*Based on Mr Flex with weekly/fortnightly/monthly payment period. Full terms and conditions available on application. Other fees and charges may apply as per T&C’s booklet. Either party can terminate with one payment period notice. Visit mrrental.co.nz or ask in store for details. Product provided by Mr Rental Group NZ Ltd. Pictured products are for display purposes only. Products available at participating stores while stocks last. Brands and models may vary. Credit check criteria apply. Pricing and offer valid until 31/10/2016.

Pre-Rented product is an item in good working condition that has been used previously. **Some products limited. Ask in store for details. While stocks last.

Call us on 0800 111 313 or visit mrrental.co.nz SAVVY | 31

Come & join the fun!

STAGE 2 SELLING FAST

BE QUICK to secure your future att The Falls Estate Lifestyle Village with a $1,000 deposit (fully refundable)!

Allow yourself the time to plan ahead while your brand new home is being built.

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OPEN DAY

Friday 14th October At 10.30am Join us for an exclusive viewing of the plans and discover our wonderful community facilities and much, much more. Harcourts professionals will be on site with updated property market information and answer your questions!

94 Boundary Rd, Tikipunga, Whangarei Ph 09 437 5844 www.fallsestate.co.nz

32 | SAVVY