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Bringing it home
by Grant McCallum, MP for Northland
Northland is finally receiving much-needed attention after years of government inaction, with several significant infrastructure projects in the pipeline — literally.
Need trees for erosion control?
grant is
council poplars and willows. For more info, visit nrc.govt.nz/orderingpoplars or contact our Land Management team on 0800 002 004 or nurser y@nrc.govt.nz
One key initiative is the allocation of up to $41.5 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund dedicated to essential water projects throughout Northland. This substantial investment aims to bolster the region’s water security and stimulate economic growth by improving water storage and irrigation infrastructure. These enhancements are particularly impactful for the mid-Far North, ensuring that local communities have reliable access to water resources.
The improvements will serve a larger portion of the community while connecting with other water storage initiatives, creating numerous land development opportunities in Kaikohe and the surrounding areas. Once completed, the upgraded infrastructure will support 1,600 hectares of productive land in regions such as Matawii, Waimate North and the mid-north, creating approximately 52 fulltime jobs during the construction phase.
In addition to water management initiatives, the Te Tai Tokerau Water Trust
is also set to receive a loan of up to $17.5 million to construct a 22-kilometre pipeline. This pipeline will link its new reservoir near Te Kōpuru to Dargaville, providing access to around 3,000 hectares of potential horticultural land, and connecting it to the Silver Fern Farms processing plant, which is the largest employer in the area.
Northland is also on track to develop its first wind farm. This will establish Kaipara as home to the tallest structures in New Zealand, second only to Auckland’s Sky Tower. The $287 million Kaiwaikawe Wind Farm will feature 12 206-metre-tall turbines, generating sufficient renewable electricity to power 27,000 homes.
Finally, the extension of the expressway from Warkworth to Te Hana, which bypasses Dome Valley, is anticipated to be a game-changer for the northern economy.
With these initiatives, Northland is poised for a vibrant future, receiving the recognition and resources it deserves. It is all coming home.
by Paul Campbell
Chopper fund extravaganza
Averaging 100 emergency flights a month in the first quarter for a total of 312 missions, as at midnight on March 31, the crews and support of the Northland Rescue Helicopters are now setting their sights on a unique fundraising “chopper extravaganza”.
The recycled parts of a now retired Sikorsky rescue chopper have been turned into artworks that will take centre stage at a charity auction set for the Duke of Marlborough Hotel in Russell, at a limited event of just 120 tickets.
“This is a one-off opportunity to secure an extremely unique piece of New Zealand Rescue Helicopter history by bidding on classy artworks made from parts of our retired Sikorsky S76 — Mighty Mike,” said NEST spokesman, Steve Macmillan.
“Mighty Mike notched up 9,745 flying hours, while completing 2,547 missions in helping thousands of Northlanders and visitors to our region.
“Dargaville resident Debbie Martin is one of those saved by a chopper rescue after being thrown from her horse. Her daughters heard her cries for help and proceeded to call 111.”
An ambulance was sent to the scene, and arrived at exactly the same time as the duty doctor from the Dargaville Medical Centre.
“Within minutes, a Northern Rescue Helicopter was also circling, and subsequently, flew Debbie to Whangărei and then Auckland Hospital.”
Debbie finally returned to work driving milk tankers for Fonterra 12 months after the accident. “Helicopters are fantastic,” she says, but adds there are better ways to take in a view.
“To keep the choppers going, the Russell auction is a one-off opportunity to secure an extremely unique piece of New Zealand Rescue Helicopter history by bidding on classy artworks made from parts of our retired Sikorsky S76 — Mighty Mike,” says Steve.
“We have been carefully storing Mike away like a cherished classic car since he performed his last flight in March 2019.
“From a boardroom table to coffee tables, mounted rotors and more — every artwork comes with a certificate of authentication. Other auction items include luxury weekends away and international travel. You may even be the winner of a diamond to the value of $4,999.”
The limited event takes place on Saturday, June 14, with tickets at bit.ly/ChopperExtravaganza2025.
Unit 16, Opua Marine Park Baffin Street, Opua Bay of Islands
Rescued rider Debbie Martin and chopper pilot Johs Van Pierce
Watching the mushrooms grow
by Amy Fifita
When Lisa Hamilton’s fascination for mycelium and the desire to create another income source merged, she began on a passionate journey to becoming a mushroom grower.
Having grown up in Hamilton, Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty, Lisa settled down in Kaiwaka to create a family and eventually, follow her interests in the wonders of mycelium. With a culinary background, Lisa loves growing mushrooms.
“We found Kaiwaka and settled down in this nice little town, on a one-acre lifestyle block with our child and our dogs,” said Lisa. “From the culinary aspect, I love watching the mushrooms grow. I am
fascinated by how they grow and hope my NorthEast Mushrooms business grows, too, so we can have something for our baby to have one day.”
Starting with mushroom kits, Lisa began researching the process further. An adventure that began one and a half years ago, Lisa grows and sells grey and pink oyster mushrooms.
“What drew them to my interest was how the mycelium grows. It’s intriguing how they grow and their steps, before
going from tiny mushrooms one day to full-blown ones, two or three days later.
“The mycelium is their roots and it grows inside our sawdust blocks. The mycelium colonises and takes over before seeing the shoots and roots in the clear blocks they grow in.
“Once they have grown in the blocks for two to three weeks, I cut them open before they begin pinning. Pinning is also called fruiting.
“Mushrooms are very temperamental. With the fruiting process, some take four days to grow, whereas others would take four weeks.
“The bags and blocks are all clear. I typically cut them and then it takes from two days to four weeks. The fruit grows into luscious, gorgeous and delicious mushrooms.”
While mushrooms are temperamental, Lisa controls the climate they grow in for more managed results.
Lisa sells her produce at the Paparoa and Kaiwaka markets and via her Facebook page
Wanting to keep the mushroom types limited to two or three, Lisa grows pink and grey oyster varieties
“I use a climate and humiditycontrolled grow tent. I have a constant fan ventilating the tent because, like humans, mushrooms absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide.
“If there is too much CO², they shoot up and don’t bunch up and flourish. I can control everything in the grow tent from my phone, so I know if the humidity needs to be altered. Humidity must be between 60 and 80 per cent, and the temperature can’t be too high. They fruit year-round as long as the temperature is right. At 20 to 22 degrees, mushrooms fruit nicely, but at colder temperatures, they will fruit slower.
“We put the finished blocks outside, and sometimes, they produce a third flush providing us with pink and grey mushrooms in the garden, which is great to watch.”
Once grown to fruition, Lisa enjoys selling her coloured oyster mushrooms
to local people at markets and directly through the NorthEast Mushroom Facebook page.
“I am selling the produce at the Paparoa and Kaiwaka markets. In the near future, I am hoping to consistently sell at a farm stand on the Waipu side of the Brynderwyn Hills.
“People wanting to order some can contact me on 021 037 7280 or the Facebook page. I’m pretty flexible for people coming from far away and could set up a halfway meeting point.
“Mushrooms have about a four-day shelf life in the fridge. I could drive an hour and they’d still be fine and if they are freshly picked, I could travel an hour and a half to two hours.”
While Lisa continues to pursue her love for mushrooms and how they grow, she also aspires to introduce lion’s mane to her nursery in the future.
“I am trying to stick to two or three types, and I hope in the future, I can try lion’s mane and dehydrate it into powder to sell. It is excellent for your mind, and helps with brain fog and opens up your brain more, which is excellent. Any mushroom can be grown outside in
logs, but they can take two years to fruit because they grow with the seasons the mycelium grows. Mushrooms have minds of their own but they are very interesting to learn about, and at the moment, I am doing the pink and grey oyster mushrooms.”
Lisa grows her mushrooms in clear blocks, allowing her to know when to cut them open for pinning
Lisa sells mixed or individual packages at the local markets and directly
Pest plant fight goes maritime
by Paul Campbell
The realm of unwanted plant growth, simply weeds, is extensive both on land and sea, requiring extensive eradication projects and government funding, particularly in Northland.
Under the Biosecurity Act, the regional council is responsible for managing pest plants in our region and nine plants considered nationally important are covered by the Ministry for Primary Industries’ National Interest Pest Response (NIPR). Four of the nine NIPR plants, cape tulip, Manchurian wild rice, salvinia and water hyacinth, are present in Northland.
The Northland Regional Council also lists 80 plants considered serious enough for inclusion in Northland’s pest
management plan. They include 10 species of aquatic weeds and take a step further — from shore to sea.
The NRC has been awarded more than $6 million of central government money to tackle invasive exotic Caulerpa seaweed recently spread to Urupukapuka, Motukiekie and Moturua Islands.
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard announced the council had been awarded $6.2 million to progress its large-scale mechanical suction dredging technique centred on Omakiwi Cove, Te
Rāwhiti, in the Bay of Islands, about 3km from Urupukapuka.
NRC chair Geoff Crawford says the exotic weed was discovered by a member of the public. The council has been working with Biosecurity New Zealand using divers to try to determine the extent of the seaweed’s spread and ensure the most effective response. It was not clear how the exotic Caulerpa had spread there, but likely possibilities included hitching a ride with an unsuspecting yachtie or boatie, or natural dispersal from another site.
“While this latest development is very concerning, our focus is on ensuring we continue to develop the tools that can fight exotic Caulerpa — without these we haven’t any effective response,” he said.
Crawford says ongoing government investment in new technologies is critical. “It gives us a chance to remove exotic Caulerpa at scale and prevent the further spread and the devastating effects of it.”
The funding will enable the council to continue an existing relationship with Ōpua-based marine contractor Johnson
Andrew Johnson’s Caulerpa dredge is being revamped
Divers are key to checking pest seaweed locations
If you have an automatic retrieval system, still look out for any attached pieces of seaweed.”
He says if any type of seaweed is found, it should be removed, bagged or contained securely so it can’t get back into the water and taken ashore for disposal in a rubbish bin.
“If you can’t securely contain it so it can’t get back into the water — put it back into the water it came from. If someone finds they’ve picked up seaweed when they arrive back at shore, they should remove it and put it in the rubbish. Suspected sightings of exotic Caulerpa, including any washed up on beaches, should be reported to Biosecurity New Zealand.”
Bros, which has been working with the council and local mana whenua partners Ngāti Kuta and Patukeha hapū to remove exotic Caulerpa in Omakiwi Cove.
The relationship saw Andrew Johnson last year develop a world-first largescale suction dredge technology system, essentially vacuuming the seaweed from the sea floor, using a digger on a barge sporting a custom-built dredge head. That technology was used to treat approximately two hectares of Caulerpa, discovered there in May 2023, over six months last year.
The latest funding will allow development of a new tool called a submersible dredge planer (SDP), which will operate remotely on the seafloor
and aims to remove exotic Caulerpa in a single pass. The new system will include a remotely operated SDP, dredge head, pumping arrangement, GPS position system, dredge spoil processing plant and disposal system. Chair Crawford says the advantage of an SDP over the current barge system is that it has the ability to move more quickly, accurately and easily across the sea floor under its own power. Additionally, it is less likely to be affected by poor weather conditions.
“While work on the concept is still in the development phase, it’s expected that the tool will be operationally tested at Omakiwi from September.”
He says it is too soon to say what management approach will be taken
as a result of the find at Urupukapuka Island, which is about 7km from Paihia and a popular destination for yachties and other holidaymakers.
“The council is liaising with Biosecurity New Zealand on the appropriate measures to take.”
In the meantime, boaties and fishers are urged to be cautious when using the affected areas, as they have a key role in avoiding the spread of this pest. Caulerpa can get snagged on anchors, chains, and dive and fishing gear, and be accidentally moved to new locations.
“When out at sea, before leaving a location, check your vessel’s anchor and anchor chain, and any equipment you’ve used in the water for any tangled seaweed.
Back on the land, NRC varies its approach to weed control, depending on the species of weed, where it is growing and how it is spreading. If it is one of the most serious weeds, the council’s biosecurity officers will be called in to remove the problem plants at no cost to the owner. They do control work for plants that are at very low levels of infestation and also check garden centres against any plants that are banned from sale in New Zealand.
Many pest plants have been in Northland since the region was first settled, and gorse came here to use for hedges to then run rampant in Northland’s subtropical climate. Other plants were introduced accidentally, such as in ballast rocks and soil from ships, or through impurities in grass seed mixes. Some have thrived, as natural predators in their native country are not present.
The coal face of marine pest protection
On land Manchurian wild rice is targeted
Equine traceability programme announced
The health and wellbeing of New Zealand’s horses are set to take a leap forward with the launch of the New Zealand Equine Health Association’s (NZEHA) new biosecurity initiative in August.
Following years of research and collaboration, the National Equine Identification and Traceability (NEIT) project has developed into a comprehensive system designed to strengthen biosecurity across the country.
The NEIT system will build a nationwide database of horse locations and ownership, enabling faster, more efficient responses during equine disease outbreaks.
“It’s been a long journey to reach this point,” said NZEHA executive adviser Dr Trish Pearce. “While some may view the new requirements as an added cost, the truth is that a robust system is essential for us to undertake any disease response efforts.
“Over 23 exotic diseases pose a threat to New Zealand horses, and some of these affect people or other livestock
as well. The NEIT system is a simplified traceability tool designed to meet these challenges effectively. It only tracks ownership changes — not the movement of horses throughout their lives.”
The NEIT system aligns with the Government Industry Agreement (GIA), which requires industries to share the costs of managing post-border disease outbreaks. It will ensure a rapid, coordinated response in the event of a disease outbreak by identifying and locating equines quickly and accurately.
From August 2025, all foals born in New Zealand will be required to have a microchip. This will be a straightforward procedure, which can be combined with other regular farm visits, such as ram palpation, to minimise costs. Once a foal is microchipped and the vet records the relevant information, the farmer will
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an email confirming ownership details for review.
The system is designed to be simple: movement tracking is only necessary if the horse is sold or dies. Horses born before August 2025 will not require microchipping, but owners may voluntarily chip and register these at any time.
There will be a one-time registration fee, but NZEHA will cover all subsequent costs over the horse’s lifetime.
As this is an industry-wide initiative, the system will apply to stationbred horses, including foals that are bred on farms in a managed herd with low levels of
human contact. The NZEHA notes there are always risks, such as standardbred horses being purchased from high-density populations, horse sports or young horses being broken in and then sold. For the NEIT system to be robust, it needs to be a blanket approach.
“This is just the beginning,” Pearce said. “As the system continues to grow, the database will become more populated, and we will have a clearer picture of where horses are located, who owns them, and how we can protect the national herd.”
For more information, visit neit.org.nz.
The National Equine Identification and Traceability programme launches in August this year receive
by Amy Fifita
For agricultural aspirations
Having grown up on the family farm, Bailie Schick
Wairoa Vet Club Tertiary Scholarship.
Born and raised in Dargaville, Bailie grew up on the family farm, an environment that fostered his love of the outdoors and agriculture. Since leaving his humble beginnings, Bailie has been studying agriculture at Lincoln University.
“I was born in Dargaville,” said Bailie. “Growing up just outside of the town, I helped my dad on the family farm, a 300head Jersey dairy farm, and got involved with agriculture wherever I could.
“Attending Dargaville High School, the scholarship was first brought up through the school’s careers adviser. Coming from a farming background, I thought it would be an awesome scholarship to win. My nana and I worked through the application process together.”
Immersed in farming, Bailie decided he desired to study a Bachelor of Agriculture at Lincoln University.
“I have a passion for agriculture, and that is what led me to the course. I love being outside, and there is always something new to do, allowing me to constantly learn new ideas.
“So far, the course is what I expected, having looked at the outlines before I came. It covers topics I am interested in, so I enjoy learning about it.”
Bailie encourages like-minded students to step forward into their future and take
the opportunity to apply for the Northern Wairoa Vet Club Tertiary Scholarship.
“The process is easy, all it takes is a little bit of time to write up your achievements. Try to put in as much information as possible. The money is out there for the opportunity to study, so it’s best to apply because when you’re
grateful to the Northern Wairoa Vet Club for providing me with the scholarship, which has helped immensely with course fees.”
The scholarship is for people aspiring to work in the agricultural industry between the ages of 17 and 25 years old living within the Kaipara District Council boundaries. To express your interest, email nwvetclub@outlook.com.
and it is
After completing his three-year course, Bailie endeavours to work within the agriculture industry.
“I’m unsure what field I will enter, but I am open to any of them, and later on, I’d love to return to the family farm. I am
Bailie Schick used the Northern Wairoa Vet Club Tertiary Scholarship to contribute towards studying agriculture at Lincoln University in university, every cent counts,
worth it.
Compact handheld pruning saw ideal for pruning trees and cutting down garden waste with a branch thickness up to 75mm Easy tool-free replacement of the chain and bar and improved safety with an anti-slip handle Bio Chain oil included (50mL)
by Andy Bryenton
Tariffs a crisis and an opportunity
New Zealand will not engage in a tariff war that would only hurt local consumers, say government officials responding to a 10 per cent tariff levelled at Kiwi exporters by US president Donald Trump.
“New Zealand exporters will face a 10 per cent tariff rate from April 5. While this is a significant development, New Zealand remains competitive against other exporters in the US market,” said Agriculture and Trade Minister Todd McClay.
Dairy exports to the US, amounting to $1.2 billion annually, already face a stiff 19 per cent tariff, and the new measures levelled against them could push this up to almost one-third. There are similar fears for what was a burgeoning wine export trade to North American cellars and tables.
The 10 per cent tariff New Zealand faces is retaliation by president Trump for what he claims is a 20 per cent monetary or non-tariff barrier to US imports to New Zealand, though his Kiwi counterparts are struggling to see how this adds up. The average tariff this country imposes
on US goods is 1.8 per cent. There’s suspicion that Mr Trump has bungled the figures, and is referencing the 20 per cent trade deficit between the US and New Zealand. That’s hardly heartening news for exporters.
New Zealand farming’s red sector will also be one of the most affected areas of the economy as US tariffs bite. Before the tariffs, more than 180,000 tonnes of Kiwi beef were shipped to North
America, and demand is likely to stay high as it’s seen as a top-notch quality product.
“Tariffs distort trade and reduce market efficiency, ultimately forcing exporters and producers to accept lower prices while leaving consumers with fewer choices and higher costs,” said Meat Industry Association CEO Sirma Karapeeva.
At the same time, with tariff wars striking many of New Zealand’s other trading partners, buying US red meat might seem like a losing proposition to other nations that could turn to Kiwi farmers for supply. Trade deals could be inked in the coming weeks and months, pushing the already buoyant price of beef and lamb higher still. This could well be exacerbated by the fact that licences for US meat processing plants, required to export to the massive market of China, are not being renewed. Todd McClay indicates
that trade diplomats are actively seeking opportunities in India, Europe, the UAE and the UK as the tariff fallout settles.
The Constant Angle Knife Sharpening System
The government says that there will be no retaliatory tariffs levelled at the US after Donald Trump slapped a 10 per cent tariff on Kiwi exports
Identify your target beyond all doubt. Whether you’re using optical or thermal imaging devices, if in doubt, don’t shoot!
Image courtesy of Matt Winter Photography
by Amy Fifita
Health & Wellbeing Keeping well this winter
Boost your immunity with natural remedies and bolster your medicine cabinet before winter fully sets in by stocking up and refreshing medicines and ingredients.
It can be surprising how many products we can store up within a year. Have a look through the cupboard and fridge to find any expired bottles of cough syrup and paracetamol to assess what needs to be replaced.
Throat lozenges and nasal sprays are other handy items to have. Having all your winter medications on hand avoids the nuisance of running to the shop with a nasty cough and sore throat.
Once medical supplies have been restocked, take a look at any natural products that are useful during flu season. Lemon juice, ginger, garlic, honey, and fruit and green teas work wonders when facing congestion and a sore throat.
Whether battling with the flu or feeling fatigued, natural remedies offer the body comfort and help boost the immune system. Diluting honey, lemon and ginger in hot water also provides hydration during winter, whereas tea and coffee have a diuretic effect.
Vitamin C is a wonderful supplement, especially since research suggests that it reduces the length of a cold. Vitamin D,
zinc and echinacea also promote a healthy immune system not just during the cold winter months, but all year round.
To combat seasonal affective disorder, vitamin D and light therapy are two of the treatments available. Vitamin D is available in capsules, tablets, drops and sachets; however, consult with your doctor first.
With medications sorted, living a healthy lifestyle with nutritious food and exercise also helps strengthen the immune system. Eating citrus fruits, vegetables and proteins provides your body with the nutrients it needs to function properly.
Sticking to seasonal fruits and vegetables ensures that our bodies receive the minerals and vitamins needed during winter. Seasonal produce has more nutritional value than out-of-season vegetables and fruits.
While the weather may get wetter, exercise can be done inside. Taking classes at the local gym is a great way to not only maintain fitness indoors, but also connect with friends. Alternatively, sometimes getting on a yoga mat in front of a fitness video does the job.
Adding winter vegetables into soups is great for families wanting a hearty and hot meal
ADVERTORIAL
Health & Wellbeing
Farming is tough on hand joints
by John Arts, Abundant Health Ltd
A farmer contacted me almost a year ago with significant pain from osteoarthritis. He had severe wrist, thumb and shoulder issues.
This sort of discomfort is quite debilitating for farmers who use their hands constantly in a variety of often heavy farm tasks. The bottom thumb joint, the carpometacarpal joint (CMC), is highly susceptible to osteoarthritis, which is worsened by heavy hand use. Research studies have shown that farmers are particularly susceptible to osteoarthritis due to the physical demands of their work. The constant and repetitive use of hands for heavy tasks, such as lifting, gripping and manipulating tools, contributes to the wear and tear on joints.
osteoarthritis, impacting farmers’ health and productivity.
Furthermore, outdoor conditions can exacerbate the pain and progression of
cartilage. After three months, he reported significant reduction in pain. He still had some discomfort in his thumbs and one finger but could now close his hands without too much trouble.
What is Bettaflex?
• Bettaflex is a joint support formula to promote healthy joint cartilage function
• Bettaflex has 400mg (per capsule) of high-grade avian chondroitin, 400mg of glucosamine and 100mg of BioSolve® bioavailable Curcumin (from turmeric).
• Try Bettaflex for 3 months and see for yourself.
How can Bettaflex help?
• Chondroitin and glucosamine are building blocks of cartilage.
• Supplementation with correct levels can support healthy cartilage function and cartilage repair processes.
• New BioSolve® bioavailable curcumin helps joint function while gentle on the stomach.
• Research indicates that chondroitin is highly effective at 800mg daily.
John Arts comments:
“My latest Bettaflex formula includes BioSolve® bioavailable curcumin for faster results. The normal dose is 2 capsules daily but I recommend an initial higher dose for 1-3 bottles to saturate join tissue.”
Founder, Abundant Health)
Osteoarthritis is primarily caused by the death of chondrocytes, the cells responsible for maintaining healthy cartilage. When chondrocytes die, the cartilage deteriorates, leading to joint pain, stiffness and decreased function. The processes that cause loss of chondrocytes are worsened by joint trauma of which farmers are at greater risk.
I started my client on intensive nutritional therapy for three months. This involved adding chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine sulphate at 1,600mg daily and a 100% water soluble curcumin (from turmeric) extract. Of these, chondroitin sulphate is by far the most important, as chondroitin is an actual constituent of
He now reports that he has no pain at all and is doing well on the lower maintenance doses. This again testifies to our wonderful healing processes once we add what our body really needs.
Contact me if you need help.
John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@ abundant.co.nz. Join his newsletter at abundant.co.nz.
Follow in Claud Switzer’s footsteps almost 70 years after this generous bequest in 1954. You, too, can leave your mark in the form of a legacy that helps us continue his good work beyond your lifetime. Your gesture of kindness and generosity means a great deal to the people we care for and will help ensure our service remains accessible to families in the Far North for years to come.
Talk to us about how your name and legacy might live on (as a memorial tribute in our beautiful Switzer gardens/grounds).
by Liz Clark
A legacy from France
In the heart of Whangārei, located at 36 Water Street, is
and the Botanica horticultural complex.
The reserve was named after the Cafler family, acknowledging their contribution to the establishment of the city in the earlier days of European settlement. It was the enterprising French-born Edward Eugene Cafler who made his home in what, at the time, was swampland in 1855.
Edward had served as a cadet in the French army during the Napoleonic wars. It’s noted in his obituary that he was present at the battle of Waterloo but ‘watched it from a distance’. Calfer would go on to marry the daughter of a wealthy plantation owner after a life spent at sea. After losing everything, due to the outbreak of the northern war in 1845, the Caflers fled to Australia but returned to New Zealand a few months later.
The couple settled in Whangārei, where Edward established the first hotel, store and post office, and built his home, Sans Souci. After the death of his first wife, he remarried in the late 1860s and fathered two children, Albert and Alice. It would be Albert who would sell the land for the park to the Whangārei Borough Council in the early 1920s.
Cairns 2
Today, Cafler Park has been transformed into a tranquil nature experience in the heart of central Whangārei. Within the park are the rose gardens, colourful flower gardens and mature trees offering shaded picnic spots. The Waiarohia River runs along its western boundary.
The park’s showpiece, Botanica, is a free public garden with year-round displays of subtropical flowers, a fernery and a cactus house. Within the garden is the Snow Conservatory, housing a significant number of tropical and subtropical plants. It also provides time out during the day to enjoy a peaceful setting of bird songs and the sound of a small waterfall nearby.
Next is the fernery, which houses one of the nation’s largest collections. Species from around the North and South Islands are showcased, along with collections from offshore islands. It also boasts three shade houses, ponds, and a waterfall and courtyard. Other highlights include the cactus house,
Sans Souci, the Cafler family homestead, stood for many years near the town basin, before it was replaced by the Whangārei Harbour Board building in the 1930s holding a range of rare and unusual cactus species, and the Japanese garden, put together with the help of students from Pompallier College. For more information, visit the Whangārei District Council website.
SPOTLIGHT ON WHANGAREI
Art around the city
by Liz Clark
With the school holidays pending, spending time in the Whangārei Town Basin, whether local or visiting, is a worthwhile way to take the children and immerse them in creative art.
The Hundertwasser Art Centre opened in 2022 as a monument to the life and works of avant-garde artist, architect and environmentalist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. He was commissioned in the 1990s to design a building that would be a standout feature on the city’s waterfront.
Materials from the former Northland Harbour Board building were incorporated into the new art centre in keeping with Hundertwasser’s ideals of recycling and protecting the environment.
Visitors will be greeted with an architectural feast upon entry into the centre. Upstairs in the gallery, Hundertwasser’s works are displayed in a series of galleries that contain silk prints, Japanese woodcuts and canvas works.
There’s also a collection of architectural models of buildings that Hundertwasser designed in Europe. Knowledgeable guides are on hand to explain Hundertwasser’s creative processes behind each work.
This month, for the school holidays April 19–28, the museum will be hosting
Concrete Blocks for
• Retaining Banks
• Silage Pits
• Storage Bays
• Fertiliser & Feed Bins
free family drop-in art games during opening hours. Bring the whole family and move from station to station, taking on a series of fun art challenges that will test creativity, coordination and imagination. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
While in the town basin, after a visit to Clapham’s National Clock Museum, nearby is the unique Rolling Ball Clock, a kinetic sculpture and a clock all in one. It uses the scientific principles of balance, equilibrium and movement, using many connected moving parts, including gears, wheels and chains.
It will keep the young ones entertained for hours. Follow the path around the Hātea River Walk and view the many sculptural pieces on display throughout the journey.
Not so far away, at 5 Rust Street, Whangārei Central Library is holding its Famous Artists School Holiday Programme. Participants will be doing art and crafts based on famous painters: Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Yayoi Kusama, Laurel Burch, Kandinsky and Monet.
The free sessions are 10am to 11am, from Tuesday, April 15. No bookings are required — visit the library website for more information.
The Quarry Arts Centre, 21 Selwyn Avenue, has also launched a school holiday programme with a series of children’s creative workshops from April 14–19. The workshops are designed to spark imagination and inspire young artists. Booking is required and there is a charge for the workshops. Visit the centre’s website for more information and to register.
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Width: 600mm
Height: 600mm
Weight Approx: 750kg
Length: 900/1500mm
Width: 600mm
Height: 600mm
Weight Approx: 1000kg
The unique Rolling Ball Clock in the Whangārei Town Basin can keep visitors, young and old, entertained for hours
SPOTLIGHT
by Amy Fifita
On the right track
Enjoy autumn’s natural colours and venture around one of the many bushwalks located in Whangārei to
plunging waterfalls.
Marvel at nature’s beauty and witness the wonders of waterfalls in Whangārei, hidden within the local walks and bushlands. With varied difficulty levels, there is a track for all adventurers.
Explore the bushlands along the side of the Taheke River, and discover the flowing sounds and sights of the waterfall within the reserve.
Walkers can find the track by turning on the corner of Whareora and Pātaua North Road on to Tahere Road, then left on to Hoban Road.
Once at the site, venturers have two options, the Waterpoint Viewpoint or Loop Walk tracks. The viewpoint track is a 35-minute return trip within 1.4 kilometres of the scenic reserve. The 3.3km loop track takes an hour and 35 minutes to trek.
Enjoy the tranquil flow of the Paranui Falls at the AH Reed Memorial Kauri Park. Accessible from Whareora Road or Clapham Road, the waterfall features in native bush along the Paranui Stream. The site is home to a canopy walk where visitors can traverse above the
shrub level and view the bush from a height.
Those wanting to enjoy the sights of two waterfalls can continue further along the AH Reed Memorial Kauri Park to the Whangārei Falls Walk. This hour-and-a-half return walk is approximately 1.5 kilometres, and takes people on a mixed terrain walk.
From the gravel on the track to a grassy paddock, venturers will walk beside streams and water holes, over a wooden bridge before reaching the rushing waters of the Whangārei Falls. Witness the vastness of the falls from below or continue upwards for a perspective of its height. There is a picnic area and toilets above the falls.
Discover more about walks in Whangārei at wdc.govt.nz/Community/ Parks-and-recreation/Walks.
Walkers can treat themselves to two waterfalls on one walk on the AH Reed Memorial Kauri Park track to the Whangārei Falls Walk
BUY,EAT, WORK , PLAY
Check the house and relax
by Paul Campbell
The cold and wet days of winter are not far away and while the drought days are with us, now is a good time to check that all will be well, when it’s time to spend more time inside the home.
Getting things ship-shape in autumn means relaxing in winter as more rain, wind and cooler weather takes hold. It’s a good plan to have a list of things to do. While it is still a fine time outside, a first job would be to guard against possible draughts or water leaks, and check for any cracks or gaps that might fall foul in heavy rain and high winds.
Water ingress can soon develop into mould and a commercial gap-stopping compound can guard against this. Mould is a no-no, and if it appears, seek professional advice, as it can affect household health.
A check on the chimney will be timely, too — check online for a local chimney sweep service. However, we are concentrating on outside tasks for the present, and a major pre-winter check has to be the roof and guttering. Be aware, too, that the roof involves working at height, and there are new rules regarding scaffolding requirements. Check Worksafe New Zealand to be sure, and you will learn that preventing falls from roofs is a priority. Investigations by
WorkSafe into falls while working at height show that more than 50 per cent of falls are from less than three metres. Most of these falls are from ladders and roofs, and the cost of these falls is estimated to be $24 million a year — to say nothing of the human cost as a result of these falls. Thus, it might be an idea to contract out roof and guttering inspection. Cleaning out your gutters will stave off any leaking problems as well as ensure, if you are rurally located and rely on tank supply, that your water source is clean. It will also help to prevent water damage to
It’s a fine time to prepare the home your roof and other parts of your house. Get the brackets that secure the gutters and spouts checked when you have them cleaned. They may have become unclipped over time, and can fall down in a storm when you need them most. It is also a good time in autumn to take a look at the garden and guard against anything that might be a winter problem, in particular, trees and bushes that might need trimming back, if close to the house. By pruning overgrown branches near electrical wires or your roof, you can ensure high winds don’t become a danger.
WINTER FOCUS
A breath of dry air
by Amy Fifita
While snuggling in blankets in a heated house is often a winter comfort, ensuring that some fresh air is ventilated throughout the house is a must.
While opening doors and windows is a common summertime trend, it is also necessary in winter. Yes, finding refuge in the comfort of a warm home by the fireplace is a leisurely time, but so is maintaining good air quality, respiratory health and a moisture-free environment.
Ventilation ensures stale air and moisture are released from the home and deters mould growth, especially in laundries, bathrooms and kitchens.
Shower domes are another solution to controlling dampness in the home.
Move air by opening a door or window on either side of the house and in wet areas, even if it’s only for 15 minutes a day. Exhaust fans are useful above the stovetop or shower, allowing damp air to be extracted.
Consider installing or maintaining a ventilation system. Ventilation systems are preferably installed if you have floor and ceiling insulation and a heat source, like a pump or fireplace.
There are different types of systems. More suitable for houses with wooden joinery, positive pressure ventilation
is in the home, this, too, can be utilised, by using a ducting kit.
Leaving a gap between walls and furniture creates a space for air to move freely, decreasing the risks of mould. Another great device to use is a dehumidifier, or for something more power-efficient, enlist a few moisture absorbers to soak up the dampness.
circulates drier air from the roof space or outdoors. With dry, and normally cooler air, being shifted into the home space, having a heat source is a must to maintain warmth.
Whereas positive pressure systems introduce dry air, balanced pressure ventilation extracts damp air and replaces it with heated dry air using heat exchanger technology. This system works well in modern-built and well-sealed homes.
These systems allow houses to maintain a balanced temperature and humidity for healthier home environments. If a dryer
How you ventilate your home affects the air quality for the inhabitants
DAIRY & LIVESTOCK
Freshwater and lifestyle blocks
Lifestyle block owners, who are not farmers, may be wondering whether the rules and regulations about freshwater quality apply to them.
Anyone who has stock on their land, regardless of how many they have or the size of the property, needs to abide by the rules in the Proposed Northland Regional Plan and the national stock exclusion rules. More information about these rules is on the Keeping stock out of waterways page on the Northland Regional Council website.
Lifestyle block owners may also be affected by an important regulatory tool for improving freshwater quality that is expected to roll out nationwide, once the government has completed revisions and confirmed the implementation timeframe. The tool will require landowners to have a plan to identify and manage risks to freshwater quality on their land if it meets certain criteria. Currently, the criteria will require owners to have a freshwater farm plan if they have:
• 5 hectares or more in horticultural use
• 20 hectares or more of combined use
• 20 hectares or more in arable or pastoral use
These criteria could change before rollout, but they are a signal to landowners, whether or not income is from farming, horticulture or cropping, to prepare.
Acting now to improve freshwater quality on the land will make things easier when freshwater farm plans come into effect. In Northland, the biggest problems with freshwater quality are high levels of sediment and E coli (bacteria) in waterways. Landowners should consider
things they can do to address these issues.
One of the most important things to keep freshwater clean on the property is to fence off streams and drains. Fencing waterways keeps stock out and ensures animal waste, a major source of E coli pollution in Northland streams and rivers, stays on the paddocks and out of waterways.
The fencing of wetlands and boggy areas has two significant benefits. Firstly, plants growing within the fenced area will help to trap sediment washed down from eroding hillsides before it reaches waterways. Secondly, livestock won’t be at risk of getting stuck.
Planting along stream and river banks helps to trap sediment and pollutants running off the paddocks. Tall plants help shade and cool stream water, providing a healthier environment for native freshwater species. Using native species will also increase biodiversity and habitat for native fish and insects.
Planting of freshwater streams and drains helps to improve water quality
Working hard for rural Northlanders
by Colin Hannah, Federated Farmers Northland president
During much of the last two or three years, we have experienced high onfarm inflation, which hopefully, is starting to diminish in the mirror. Ahead, we are seeing a huge distortion and disruption to what we have experienced in the last decade or so. Some of this is quite frightening when we are looking for stability, as it makes our lives so much easier.
Soon the local councils will be letting us know what they are going to charge us for services for the coming year. Over the past year Federated Farmers’ team attended numerous hearings across the four Northland councils on behalf of our member ratepayers. I would like to cover off some highlights or lowlights — depending on your point of view.
Many of the council charges were highly inflationary and impacted on-farm costs.
The Far North District Council had a busy year, and we attended five hearings on the Proposed District Plan, which set out the new rules and activities the district must follow. We still have some more work to do in this space. The council has listened and paid attention to many of our recommendations.
We are responding to the Annual Plan, which sets the budget for the coming year. An 11.3% increase is being proposed, and a submission has been lodged opposing the increase. At the same time, they are reviewing fees and charges applied by the council, which we are in the process
of responding to. In addition to this, we are responding to Northland’s three district councils’ Local Water Done Well campaigns.
Kaipara District Council has also been busy with a Proposed District Plan, which is important, as it will set out how activities, such as farming, can be done in the district.
It has reviewed its fees and charges, which Federated Farmers has responded to and KDC is currently consulting on Local Water Done Well.
Whangārei District Council last year delivered a hefty 17.6% rate increase on rural constituents, which we opposed strongly but it took no notice.
As this is an election year, we would encourage all ratepayers to get out and
vote, which is your chance to send a clear message about the damage they have done to your pocket.
I am yet to see any benefit in rural Whangārei on this extreme charge. It is reviewing fees and charges, and has proposed a 3.25% increase on the fee and service charge. Like the other councils, it is consulting on Local Water Done Well. We are also responding to its Annual Plan, which again does not favour rural constituents.
Work with the Northland Regional Council continues with the draft freshwater plan and I will update you on that in the months to come.
Taming the swamp
by Liz Clark
For present-day farmers with properties on the Hikurangi swamp, flooding is still a constant reality; it was the same in the early 20th century when a plan was devised to drain more than 12,000ha of the expansive 75,000ha flood plain.
In early 1913, a more serious conversation began over how to utilise what was described as ‘a vast islandstudded lake in winter and dry in summer — a wilderness of raupō and rank grasses’. Part of the initial suggested plan involved straightening 47km of the Wairua River, then dynamiting the rapids at its headwaters to readjust the fall.
However, at an estimated cost of £80,000, the government’s chief drainage engineer JB Thompson came up with an alternative plan to drain what he stated, at the time, was a difficult undertaking.
In 1915, the Swamp Drainage Act came into effect, empowering the government to drain large areas of swamp land for drainage, reclamation and roading ‘and otherwise to render fit for settlement’. In 1919, Hikurangi was gazetted as a drainage scheme area and the survey of the area for the civil works project was completed and tendered the following year.
Using machinery imported from the US, the first sod for the scheme was turned
by a Bucyrus steam shovel on March 31 1922. The prime minister of the time William Massey was present to witness the drainage of the Hikurangi Swamp get underway.
By 1928, work was well advanced with the report that large cutting at Grantham’s Flat was almost complete. However, in the early 1930s, the government, affected by the Great Depression, suspended all work on the drainage scheme, resulting in mass layoffs of workers.
In 1931, Northern Advocate correspondent Cecil Thornton wrote: ‘It is nearly 10 years since the swamp reclamation works at Hikurangi were first started. They were instituted with great ceremony.
‘It was stated that after the expenditure of about £100,000, in three years’ time the swamp would be ready for settlement. The three years have now merged into 10.
The £100,000 has grown to £250,000, and there is not a single settler on the land. The work is unfinished.’
Thornton also noted the swamp continued to flood significantly despite the Bucyrus dredges being hard at work
and making canals in many directions. Work continued off and on throughout the decade. However, it was in the early 1970s, under the Northland Catchment Commission, that significant further work was undertaken.
One of the US-made Bucyrus dredges engaged in drainage work in the Hikurangi Swamp in 1922 Photo: Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections
FARM WHEELS & MACHINERY
Counting down the hits
by Andy Bryenton
Kia is on a roll with awards and accolades filling its trophy cabinet, and its EV range surging in popularity — now, there’s a new member of the family.
Kia’s EV6 won the 2022 European Car of the Year, and the GT version scooped the 2023 World Performance Car of the Year title. The EV9 was 2024 World Electric Vehicle and World Car of the Year. The EV5 took home three What Car? Awards in early 2025 after just being released. Now, there’s a new member of the family, with a lower number but high expectations.
The EV3 is, as you’d expect, a more compact size and shape than its bigger brothers, but it’s a miracle of packaging. Behind the design language of the brand, which translates here into a retro-futurist angular charm, you’ll find a cabin that’s almost impossibly large considering the car’s external measurements.
Part of this comes down to the lack of a central drive tunnel, unnecessary on an electric car, and part comes down to the gears being mounted to the right of the steering wheel on a stalk.
It’s weirdly intuitive, this chunky control arm, which replaces a turn-key ignition and the gear lever, too. For those who love control on the open road, there are paddle shifters mounted to the wheel as well. It’s
a neat little thing, slightly flattened off like that of a race car, with chunky grips and a nice, tactile feel.
That tactile feel comes through on the road, with the EV3 responding with a smooth delivery of electric torque and a smooth, comfortable ride. Despite being smaller than the EV6, it’s not designed to be zippy and charging, instead offering the comfort of a big ICE era-luxury sedan, and the promise that you’ll finish long drives feeling fresh, not worn out.
There’s still a handy 210 horses driving the front wheels of the EV3, and that allows a quiet and swift journey up to the speed limit with just a tap of the toe. Gladly, it’s a smart enough car to read the road signs and gently remind you if you’re being too vigorous.
There’s the option of a one-pedal driving mode, which amps up the regenerative braking power of the EV3, but driving normally is once again intuitive and smooth. This is a consummate family cruiser, good for more than 430 kilometres on a charge and offering sharp looks, top safety and the kind of comfort that takes away the stress of the school run or commute.
The Kia EV3 is a new figure in a winning formula, with the comfort and technology of a luxury sedan in an all-electric, cleverly-designed package
ATV MATS from $89 — Come in & see us at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Ph 0800 963 636. www.atvtyres.co.nz.
ATV SAFETY HELMETS — from $119 accessories from $15. The law has changed! Have you got yours? Come & see us at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Ph 0800 963 636. www.atvtyres.co.nz. Subject to availability.
HERITAGE APPLE TREES — Hardy root stocks — Diversify your Farm with an Orchard pack 6 trees for $220 www.tastytrees.co.nz, call 09 408 5443 or text 027 346 7645.
NEW YAMAHA FARM ATVs — 5.9% interest & 3 year warranty. Only at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi — phone 0800 963 636 & Yamaha MC Whangarei. Ph 09 438 0804.
