Otaki Mail June 2017

ŌTAKI MAIL

PO Box 109 Ōtaki Otaki

otakimail@xtra.co.nz 06 364 www.otakimail.co.nz 06 364 5500 otakimail@xtra.co.nz 5500 www.otakimail.co.nz

June 2017 December 2015

Rotary Honours Māoriland Big Bang Adventure Race more popular than ever

The Rotary Club of Ōtaki held a community dinner at the Ōtaki Golf club to celebrate 100 years of their Rotary Foundation, and to honour Libby Hakaraia.

Rotary Foundation has invested over $3 million worldwide in improving the lives of other people. They claim to have been instrumental in eradicating Smallpox, and are now on the verge of eradicating Polio, which is 99.9% defeated.

Expressway p5 Rod Oram p6

Paul Harris Fellowship

Named after the founder of Rotary, awarded to Rotarians who have made an outstanding contribution to their Rotary clubs: occasionally awarded to non-Rotarians in recognition of exceptional service to the community. In the past two decades, Ōtaki Rotary has made awards to three people: Murray Scott, ex-mayor of Ōtaki, Anne Thorpe, for the good community works she and husband performed and Peter Hosiaux, for his community work, particularly for surf club and canoe polo.

purpose. Tainui's mihi at the commencement revealed what a consummate speaker he was, and set the scene for a great evening.

Libby Hakaraia's Paul Harris Fellowship "It's a shame that they both couldn't have won" observed a member of the audience who knew Libby and her partner Tainui Stevens very well. He chuckled at Tainui's subterfuge: Tainui was informed of Libby's impending award, but sworn to secrecy.

He told her that they were going to 'to talk about Māoriland', thus concealing the intended

Michael Fagg introduces Rotary Fellowship

Murals p7 Christmas Calendar p14,15

Tainui looks on while Libby receives her award

Billy Graham Over 80 people attended the celebrity dinner, with guest speaker Naenae's celebrated boxer Billy Graham, motivational BY MARGARET ANDREWSspeaker and local hero. From humble beginnings on the wrong They theyincycled, hills, side ofcame, the tracks Naenae,climbed he became Ausnavigated through bush and farmland tralasia's light-welterweight amateur boxingand tubed down the turning Ōtaki River, all ofto200 champion before his attention the competitors in the Big Bang Adventure plight of Naenae's underpriveleged kids.

Race, around and through the lower foot Forming the Naenae Boxing Club in 2006, he hills behind Ōtaki and Ōtaki Gorge. has turned at-risk boys into 'good disciplined men'. Lauded by the police, “Another great event withawarded plenty Welof challington region NZ-er lenges, but some good times made,” event of the year,Carrie he wasYaxley said. “A great day director, awarded Rotary's Paulno serious injuries.” for everyone, with Harris Fellowship in November 7 was the fifth annual six hour 2007. Enthusiastic adventure race Graand the most entries to and charismatic, date, with teams of two or four competing ham the motivational as men’s, women’s or mixed teams. With speaker entertains perfect weather most teams audiences all overconditions, the made it to the fi nish line within six hours, world. He kept the but the last three teams were still out in 80-strong audience the field and missed the time for Billycut-off amused them, spellbound.

the river section and had to cycle down the Ōtaki Gorge from Shield Flat to the end of Kaitawa Road (over the swing bridge), taking over eight hours to finish.

The start line was only revealed the previous night, so teams with their support crew and supporters were on private land alongside the Waitohu Quarry soon after 7.30am, ready to collect their course maps and last minute instructions for the 8am start. With the starting point at the top of the paddock, teams had to run around the paddock, negotiating five horse jumps before collecting their bikes and heading up the track to Gundy’s Hut. Several teams took a wrong turn and ended up in the next paddock!

It’s a steep climb up to Gundy’s - quite a challenge for many, but once at the top it Libby charmed them was ‘leave the bikes and take to their feet’

Accepting the award, Libby Hakaraia spoke with passion, albeit surprise at her entrapment.

She told of growing up in Lower Hutt, being expelled from school, a journalist for a tramp to the top becoming of Kaitawa Road, and her development as a film-maker, of 12 the Ōtaki Gorge, with five transitions and evolution of the Māoriland Filmline.

Festival, check points before the finish There holding audience with herdetours, vision were alsothe a couple ofwrapt navigation for Ōtaki as a world in Mansell’s indigenous film, through private landleader behind and of plans for the Māoriland hub in the old farm.

Edhouses building.

The first was a mental challenge - the outline of a spade made up with matches with a piece of gorse at the top, they had Ōtaki Rotary to remove two matches while maintaining Meets every Thursday the shape of the spade and keep the gorse. evening in the RotaFor the second, they were faced with Aotaki firy velounge upsideindown kayaks across a small street.

Theirhad record of the lake over the lake, teams to cross community works was to check in at the kayaks and remember exhibited by president-elect Chisholm's marker at the middle kayakDerek - the “captain” a cheque $15,000 to St John ofpresentation each team of was issuedfor with an “identifordisc theirwhich shuttle.they They welcome new ty” hadwould to click into the members.markers at each checkpoint and recording transition, ....continued overleaf photo credits: Derek Kelly

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Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Reevedon ‘feels like home’ For Reevedon Home’s clinical nurse manager Alison Farrugia, working at the Levin rest home is like working in a family home.

Hailing from sunny Ōtaki, Alison started at Enliven’s Reevedon Home in Levin in November last year. She says the role presented a nice change of environment in an industry she loves.

Reevedon Home and Village is operated by Enliven, part of the not-for-profit organisation Presbyterian Support Central, and provides independent retirement living, rest home care, respite and a popular day programme, from 37 Sailsbury Street in Levin.

“Reevedon Home and Village is a lovely place to work. All the staff are friendly, the residents are great, it’s got a great atmosphere and it feels like a home,” says Alison.

She says this is largely due to the home’s unique model of care, the Eden Alternative, which uses 10 principles to support residents to have choice and control, purpose and meaningful activity in their lives.

Reevedon Home and neighbouring Reevedon Village is perfect for retirees planning for the future and couples looking for different levels of support.

Reevedon Home

Independent living, security, help on hand when it’s needed, a central location, cosy villas Reevedon Village has it all. Take a look for yourself.

Enliven offers rest home care with a difference. At Reevedon Home you’ll find companionship, comfort, care and an engaging social calendar.

Call us on 06 366 0444 to find out more or to arrange a visit.

Call us on 06 368 7900 to arrange a time to visit.

37 Salisbury Street, Levin

For more information about Reevedon Home call 06 368 7900 or visit www.enlivencentral.org.nz

“I really enjoy the homeliness of it here. It’s quite unique. It’s not a sterile, hospital-like place, it’s a comfortable home and the residents and family really love that aspect.”

Reevedon Home and Village has it all.

Reevedon Village

the standards of care the residents receive and supporting the team to flourish. We are lucky to have her expertise, enthusiasm and experience,” says Jenny.

“Eden gives residents the same quality of life that they’re used to enjoying in their own homes, except they have trained people around to help them with everything they need.” says Alison.

37 Salisbury Street, Levin

“Here residents are encouraged to keep their independence, to do things that are meaningful to them, and to do what makes them truly happy.”

Site manager Jenny Hodgen says Alison has brought her 15 years’ of clinical practice and nursing leadership and she truly hit the ground running at the home.

“Alison is focused on constantly improving

Independent living | Respite | Rest home

Reevedon Home clinical nurse manager Alison Farrugia

www.enlivencentral.org.nz On The Road to Recovery

BY MARGARET ANDREWS

The Ōtaki Community Recovery Centre opened for business earlier this month, providing movement, body and brain exercise programmes for people recovering from illness, surgery or injury.

“Two years ago people had difficulty while recovering from operations, strokes and illness. They couldn’t find or get to suitable programmes,” Myrtle Buckley from the Ōtaki Stroke Support Group said at the opening. “What people needed was help.

We (Stroke Support) spoke to Joseph Te Waiata, at the gym, about what we wanted to do. This centre is the result. Thank you for your support.”

The centre, based in the Body and Soul Fitness hall, will operate a variety of exercise programmes, plus use of some gym

equipment – currently just the parallel bars.

There’s also a set of computer games - Able X - which works on brain and the appropriate left-right brain function post-stroke.

What's on at the Kāpiti Coast District Libraries

“Exercise is important” Joseph said. “Once a week’s ok, but we need it more often, at least twice a week.”He said they would include work on the treadmill in a few weeks when members have built up their strength and movement.

The main exercise programme is the ‘Sit and Be Fit’ programme which caters for all levels of ability. Participants sit for the full programme, which includes using small weights to build up arm strength and each of two levels runs for 45 minutes.

“We’re basically trying to provide a service as there were none which meet clients’ needs,” Ōtaki Stroke Support president David Clark said. “There’s definitely a need out there, we’re trying to narrow the gap.”

Beryl Fishlock, president of Stroke Support Central cut the ribbon across the door,declaring the centre open.

Joseph attends each session to assist people with some actions and “keep an eye’” on how the exercisers are doing.

The centre is open Friday mornings from 9.3011.30am. There’s a $10 annual subscription and $5 per session to cover rental costs. Anyone struggling to regain physical movement or strength following surgery, stroke or illness is welcome to go along and join in the day’s programme.

David Clarke, Ōtaki Community Recovery Centre chairman, is already making big strides as he gets himself from wheelchair onto the parallel bars, watched by Body and Soul's Joseph Te Wiata

If you’re a poet, we want to know it!

Enter the Kāpiti Coast District Libraries 5th Annual Poetry Competition. The theme is Kāpiti Haiku - be inspired by the place where you live. There are three age categories, and up to three haiku can be submitted per person.

Entries open from 1 – 30 June 2017.

For guidelines and entry conditions visit www.kapiticoast.govt.nz/poetry

World Wide Knit in Public Day Saturday 10 June, 10am – 12pm Paraparaumu Library Celebrate your craft, join with other enthusiasts and have fun knitting, crocheting, stitching! Just come along with your needles/hooks and your yarn project or help us make booties, beanies or blankets for Foster Hope. Simple bootie patterns, needles and help available. All welcome!

Stepping Up is stepping out to Ōtaki Free introductory computer training at Ōtaki Library will be offered once a week starting in June. Each class will run from 10am – 12pm on Wednesdays. Space is limited to 4 participants per class so register today.

Phone: 04 296 4700 or register online at www.steppingup.nz Stepping Up is also held at Paraparaumu Library each week from 10am-12pm on Mondays.

There are a range of programmes on offer in all our libraries – come in to visit or check out our website: www.kapiticoast.govt.nz/libraries

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Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Editorial Ōtaki's Housing Needs

The Ōtaki Mail is online You can read us on your phone your tablet or your computer at www.otakimail.co.nz

Before reading further, please read Andy Fraser's impassioned challenge to improve the availability of housing in Ōtaki on page 16.

What’s ON

The impact of the expressway and Ōtaki's increasing 'commutability' to Wellington will only exacerbate the pressure of housing in our town.

Matariki on Main Street on Friday night, July 7

Andy's message is clear: houses being removed from the path of the expressway could be relocated within Ōtaki, and with the creative will of the community could inexpensively help meet the need for housing.

Ōtaki Women’s Institute

A related issue is the departure of our elderly to retirement villages.

Currently Ōtaki can't satisfy the needs of the elderly for sheltered accommodation or respite care with adjacent medical care. We've all said goodbye to elderly friends leaving town not because they wanted to, but because they had to. This is sad. This is not beautiful. What Ōtaki needs are alternatives that will allow our elderly to remain here in touch with their friends and whanau. Whether this is a 'retirement village' or a more creative effort to help the elderly remain in their homes with a higher and enhanced level of social & health support, the solution isn't rocket science, and should be achievable. (and no, we don't mean an edifice like Waikanae's 'Colditz') The latest budget showed the government's disrespect for the problems of climate change, housing, health, education and water quality, in favour of short-term bribes to ensure re-election.

It's up to us to seek solutions to our problems. This is a clarion call to the wise and influential leaders of our community to look inwards at how we can create a caring community of which we're all proud. A community that will house all our people, young and old in affordable, well-insulated warm homes. We will all be the better for it if we look after our most vulnerable.

Next meeting at 1 pm – 3 pm on Wednesday 21st June Supper Room Main Street Ōtaki.

Supporting and empowering women in their community.

Come and join this friendly group of women.

Ph Colleen 364 0491 or 022 623 3572.

Yoga Classes With Tash Nga Purapura Gym @ 145 Tasman Rd Mon 10-30-1130am Wed 630-730pm With Elise Rotary Lounge, Tuesdays 9am Tuesdays

Meet The Candidates

Rotary Lounge Aotaki Street Thursday 7th September at 7.30pm

Free Computer Training at Ōtaki Library

Free computer classes for beginners Wednesday mornings starting in June. Register 04 296 4700 or www.steppingup.nz

Ōtaki Montessori Movie fundraiser

Event cinemas Paraparaumu 17 June 3pm for Cars3 Advanced Screening. $15 a ticket not only will you get to see the movie before its released but you'll support a great cause while doing so!!

Ōtaki Stroke Awareness Day

collection Tuesday 30th May, Countdown Ōtaki 9.30am to 2.30pm

Stroke Recovery Centre

Friday from 9.30am at Body & Soul Gym, Waerenga Road

Te Wananga O Raukawa Free On-line Te reo classes

RSA Monthly Film

Tuesday 13th June $6 per person. The film is Whisky Galore

Friends of the Ōtaki River

Planting days: Wed 7 June , Saturday 24 June (see p4)

The Ōtaki Mail is your free community newspaper paid for by its advertisers.

Without their support, there would be no Ōtaki Mail Please support our advertisers, our local businesses so that the Ōtaki Mail can continue • Kylie Gardner for the wooden frames for the new promotional signs • Blood donors • Businesses and individuals who support Montessori • ‘Compassions in Action’ every child at Ōtaki Primary School now has a new pair of socks in time for winter • Riley Moy age 10, in the Wellington under 19 golf squad. Awesome!

• KCDC dog exercise area • KCDC for installing new heaters in the Civic Theatre in time for their celebratory bash

Thumbs Down • The trespassers who enter the Montessori playground under the cover of darkness and destroy the playground leaving rubbish behind. It is not appreciated

World Vision Volleyball

Ōtaki College gym, Saturday 24 June at 3pm

Ōtaki Dance Group- Memorial Hall

Beginners classes - Tues 13 June for six weeks 6.45-7.30pm Dance classes - Tues 13 June 7.30-9.30 $2 per class Chrissie Anderson banca2@xtra.co.nz 364 5637

Te Horo Community meeting - May 19

Subject: On / Off ramps to expressway at Peka Peka Contact Marylin Stevens for details

Zumba Fitness - Body and Soul, Waerenga Road Tues & Frid 6.30pm Wed 11am Thurs 7.15pm

Page:4

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

PLANTING DAYS WEDNESDAY 7th June 9.30am Waitohu School & Friends of the River - Chrystall’s Walkway SATURDAY 24th June 9.30am Friends of the River Chrystall’s Walkway Holes are pre dug, morning tea provided Call Trevor Wylie for further information 06 364 8918 geminiservices@xtra.co.nz

Glensor family celebration

BY VIVIENNE BAILEY

Mid-year cabaret fundraiser Waitohu and Te Horo Schools have combined to co-host their mid-year cabaret and dance evening, ‘The Royal Flush’ on Saturday, 3 June at Ōtaki Race Course. There’ll be glitter balls, champagne, and great music and entertainment by top Wellington band, Uncle Monkey.

Festivities start from 7.30pm with a complimentary glass of bubbles on arrival (then a cash bar is available). Supper is provided.

Bus transport to and from the venue is available (Peka Peka to Manakau region). This needs to be booked and paid for prior to the evening ($15 per person).

Tickets ($60) are available from Farmlands, Ōtaki, Te Horo and Watohu School Offices.

Te Horo wedding venue in national top ten A Te Horo wedding venue, which also offers luxury accommodation, has made it onto a list of top ten wedding venues in New Zealand.

Sudbury, based in Te Hapua Road, is the only lower North Island venue to feature in the list, complied by Auckland’s The Urban List.

Venue owner, Janine Sudbury said it was unique, combining country charm and sophistication.“I’m thrilled we’re recognised as one An Easter Saturday gathering celebratof the country’s special places to tie the knot.” ed what the family called 'The 990th Sudbury was launched four years ago, attract- decade birthday bash' . What started as a double celebration of reaching signifiing couples world-wide as well as from the Kapiti Coast. It is currently featured in Bride cant decades for Bob Glensor and Tania Tekira-Glensor turned out to mark other and Prejudice, on TV2, where a same sex family members also marking decade couple from Melbourne marry at the venue. birthdays in 2017. That is people born Te Horo Community Hall AGM 1927, 1937, 1947.......right up to 2017, and that included their business - PureCommunity-minded locals can attend the bread an online Organic and Gluten free Te Horo Hall Society’s AGM on Sunday, 11 bread company established in 1997.

June, 2.00pm at Te Horo Hall, School Road.

All welcome.

About 160 people and most of the Te Horo Country Market 'guests of honour' A monthly mix of Te Horo’s produce and managed to make it. products including the Seasonal Surplus Stall, The celebration was garden plants and art, olive oil, home-baking, more of a reason to spices, and smoked salmon, on Sunday, 4 reconnect and an June, 10.00am to 12.30pm at Te Horo Hall. overdue catch up for everyone. This Drinks and Nibbles is a musical family.

Bring a plate to share and your own drink to the community’s monthly social evening at Te Bob is a drummer Horo Hall, Friday, 2 June 5.30pm to 7.30pm. in a Brass band It’s a great way to catch up with friends and meet newcomers to the community.

(Brasso) so together with a wide circle of musicians in attendance there was no shortage of live music on a stage constructed from pallets in a large barn in the paddock. The only dampener was literally the torrential rain in the days preceding Easter Saturday so gumboots were the ‘dress du jour’. The rain held off however for the Organic hangi and bonfire at the end of the day marking a successful get together.

Anzac Day in Ōtaki Left: A clear early morning saw a big crowd turnout for the Anzac Day Dawn parade where Ōtaki RSA’s John Taylor laid a wreath on behalf of the Ōtaki RSA. Right: Another good turnout for the evening Retreat Service with the 49 Kapiti Squadron Air Training Cadets performed the flag party duties

A Vintage Year!

Every now and then, conditions are perfect to create the perfect wine, it is called a Vintage year. For a Real Estate, mix low interest rates with high confidence, add a major boost to spending and money circulating locally from the Expressway spend, add overspill buyers coming from both Southern and Northern markets, add rising prices throughout Wellington, and a good supply of Vendors willing to sell, and you have the 2016/2017 ‘Vintage Year’. Vintage in that every Vendor was delighted with what we were able to achieve for them, and every buyer delighted to find something suitable, in an affordable price range.

This is reflected in our First National Awards, when “Grant and Team” did very well. Our point of difference is that we do work as a team. When you engage US, Grant, Derek and Joanne, each of us works together, bringing our different strengths to the task.

We span two generations, and have over 40 years of Real Estate experience. Grant AREINZ, from a rural background, 30 years successful practice locally, Joanne business and organisational skills, Derek from a teaching background, empathetic and creative.

Harness the experience, energy, empathy, resourcefulness, of this TEAM for your ongoing success and benefit.

238 Main Highway Otaki 06 364 8350 GBR Realty Ltd licensed REAA 2008

Derek Kelly 021 6460 Grant0832 Robertson derek@fnotaki.co.nz

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Grant 6th Nationally in First National 3rd Lower North Island Top Rural and Lifestyle office Top small office Double Diamond achiever 8 consecutive years

Page:5

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Express CONNECT

Peka Peka to Ōtaki Expressway Kia ora

In this issue we share news of an important community group that will be set up to work with the PP2Ō team during construction.

Members of the Community Liaison Group will be guiding us throughout the project – its job is to raise issues and help manage construction effects on behalf of the community.

June 2017

Read the article below to find out more about the CLG, how it works and who it involves.

We also update you on our construction programme as well as an exciting project about to get underway with Ōtaki College digital media studies students. Plus we share the latest news on a project Information Centre opening in June. Don’t forget to try our digital version for full details and visuals by subscribing online at www.nzta.govt.nz/pp2o John Palm, Project Manager

PEKA PEKA TO ŌTAKI COMMUNITY LIAISON GROUP

ŌTAKI COLLEGE STUDENTS USE DIGITAL SKILLS TO TELL THE PP2Ō STORY

The Community Liaison Group (CLG) is a forum for groups and organisations in our local community to talk to us, find out what’s going on, raise issues and concerns related to the project and then feed back information to their members.

The same forum on the Mackays to Peka Peka Expressway (M2PP) has been a productive way of bringing the project team and the community together.

Looking at a map of a proposed roadway is one thing but facing the reality of one being constructed through the middle of Jonny Best, Chair of Mackays to Peka Peka your community is quite Community Liaison Group another. ‘That reality can affect people’s lives on a daily basis,’ says Jonny Best, Chair of the M2PP CLG. His advice to anyone thinking of joining the CLG for the Peka Peka to Ōtaki leg of the expressway is get involved and be willing to use your networks to share information.

Letters have gone out to local groups and organisations in Peka Peka, Te Horo and Ōtaki inviting them to nominate a member to represent their interest on the PP2Ō CLG. If you’re in a group and you haven’t heard from us and would like to be involved please contact the team on pp2o@nzta. govt.nz or 0800 7726 4636.

If you’re not a member of a community group but live close to works – don’t worry. As we move closer to construction starting, we’ll be setting up regular residents’ meetings. Watch this space for more information.

Digital media students at Ōtaki College will be keeping their community up-to-date with what’s happening on the project. Over the next three years, students will work with the team to produce a site induction video as well as regular digital updates for the community on how construction is going.

Principal Andy Fraser says this project allows students to produce material which will keep the community well informed but most significantly it will give our young people an opportunity to be part of what is happening in our community and learn video planning and production skills in a real-life context.

Watch this space for the students’ digital updates which will be published through the e-newsletter and YouTube once construction activity gets underway – subscribe now on www.nzta.govt.nz/pp2o.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Ōtaki College digital media students (from left to right) Jesse Blackburn, Zion Gage, Devon Yung and Martina Van Der Sman prepare for their community information contract with Sarah Ropata (second right) of the Fletcher Construction team

The PP2Ō Information Centre will open in the Ōtaki retail precinct at 216 Main Highway (SH1) in June. We’ll also be placing information in a series of ‘info hubs’ throughout the district including Peka Peka and Te Horo.

Contact us at 0800 7726 4636 or pp2o@nzta.govt.nz Check www.nzta.govt.nz/pp2o and subscribe to our e-newsletter

This month, expect to see our people out and about – we’ll be starting to relocate underground services, remove vegetation and install fencing. At times this may involve some temporary stop/go traffic management so please observe any temporary speed limits and signage out on the roads.

Expressway

Page:6

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

TE WĀNANGA O RAUKAWA E kore au e ngaro he kākano i ruia mai i Rangiātea

Remembering Our Past, Reclaiming our Future This was the theme for the latest international conference hosted by the wānanga on 8 and 9 May at Ngā Purapura. The conference was the Pacific Regional Hui for International Funders for Indigenous Peoples (IFIP). It was aimed at: bringing together actions, stories and ideas for cooperation; learning about different grant-making approaches and how funders work in partnership with local communities, social movements, NGOs and others to advance indigenous peoples’ life plans; offering opportunities to build relationships and form strategic collaborations.This was reflected in the welcome by the tumuaki of the wānanga, Mereana Selby who remarked that “the opportunity to host indigenous peoples from around the globe is one we relish. We talk, we share, we celebrate, we mourn, we resist, we reclaim across so many commonalities. There is such a lot we can learn from each other’s experiences. Our time together will, no doubt, result in our individual and collective strengthening.”

Around 160 people attended the conference; participants came from Australia, Vanuatu, Fiji, Peru, Canada, the US and Aotearoa New Zealand. Keynote speakers included Dr Rhys Jones, of Ngāti Kahungunu; Dr Lance O’Sullivan, of Te Rarawa, Ngāti Maru, Ngati Hau; and Jessica Hutchings, of Ngai Tahu, Ngāti Huirapa and Gujarati descent. Opening and closing addresses were given by Mereana Selby and Ani Mikaere respectively. The conference theme focused on resilience, climate change and indigenous practices for sustainability, with addresses given by a variety of presenters covering a range of experiences. Over the two days, we heard from 36 speakers. Unfortunately, there is not enough room in this article to cover all the presentations but what follows is an account of a few of the deliveries to give a small snapshot of exchange of ideas and solutions.

The opening address by Mereana Selby remembered the poor state of te reo in the ART confederation in the 1970s and mapped the resilience in the intervening years to re-normalise te reo. She noted that while we can be proud of the effort put in to date, we still have work to do: ensuring the speaking of te reo in the home, particularly with our children; keeping the momentum going and striving for language accuracy and quality. Her presentation was followed by a welcome to the gathering from Manaia King, a director of the JR McKenzie Trust and board member of the IFIP. He re-

marked about the responsibility of carrying conversations that ensure those working in philanthropy understand what it is to work with indigenous peoples, who prioritise respect, reciprocity and the importance of establishing and maintaining relationships.

Keynote speaker Rhys Jones is a public health physician and senior lecturer at the University of Auckland. He sees climate change as the defining health issue of the 21st century, citing changes in disease patterns, food and water insecurity forged by conflict and forced migration, and greenhouse gasses as contributors to environmental determinants to health. He warned that time truly is of the essence and urged support for Māori communities and their local level initiatives such as marae food gardens that reinvigorate cultural knowledge and reconnect us to the natural world through our whakapapa relationships. His message was simple: Māori have a right to good health. Indigenous knowledge is key to finding solutions to climate change – listening to the way the natural world speaks to us rather than the Western drive to dominate and conquer. Colonisation, with all its structures and systems needs to be dismantled and replaced by local level action. The power of collaboration is that people want to connect; community is created through that connection.

The second keynote speaker was Lance O’Sullivan, a celebrated medical and community leader who lives and works in Kaitaia. He gave a candid account of his youth and the point at which he turned it around, when as a teenager he was inspired by a speech by a Māori doctor at a hui at Maataatua Marae in Mangere. His simple message to youth is “search for your 45-minute man or woman who inspires you at that moment in time because they can change your life.” He is certainly an inspiration. He demonstrated examples of the MOKO (Manawa Ora, Korokoro Ora) digital health programme that he established in the north, designed to democratise health care, by taking power out of the health system and putting it in the hands of the community. His aim is to encourage disruptive leadership and disruptive innovation, redesigning the inequities of health care through accessible technology.

He is driven by a desire to bridge the gap in health care that exists for vulnerable communities and he works with kōhanga reo, early childhood centres and schools.

He is currently working with the Kōhanga Reo National Trust to roll out the MOKO programme nationally. ‘The Good Doctor’, a book that tells his story is definitely recommended reading.

to keep growing the knowledge base around kaitiakitanga especially threats to food and health sovereignty by global food circuits, climate change, food insecurity and technological fixes for food production that alter relationships with nature. Erosion of biodiversity and food growing communities is of great concern, as is the commodification of home and small scale food growing.

Jessica is a member of Te Waka Kai Ora (Māori Organics Aotearoa). Her presentation described hua parakore, a kaupapa verification and validation system for a pure product, and explained how whakapapa, wairua, mana, maramatanga and mauri are interwoven within it. Jessica is keen for hua parakore to become established as an indigenous framework that can be taken into other areas e.g. yoga and environmental sustainability.

The session that followed on from Jessica was facilitated by Peruvian Dr Mariaelena Huambachano who spoke about indigenous food sovereignty through revitalising knowledge, food practices and ecological philosophies, and the need to collaborate to ensure our voices are heard. Another Peruvian, Paloma Abregu, talked about her work with Saphichay, an indigenous rights and cultural survival organisation that she founded. She also spoke about her work with local farming communities and the difficulties of inequality that they face. The aim of Saphichay is to keep farmers on the land through reconnecting and reclaiming indigenous identity.

Water quality is a serious national issue.

Tamati Patuwai, of Ngāti Whātua and locals, Caleb Royal and Pataka Moore, talked about their respective work of restorative action and sustainable management.

In closing, Ani Mikaere, kaihautū of Te Whare Whakatupu Mātauranga, remarked that this conference can help us to figure out how we can do what we do, better. Her assertion that Maori have a proven track record to find solutions in education, language and culture revival contained a note of caution: that we need to reflect on our experiences of accepting financial support from the Crown, because it does come at a price. Reliance on Crown funding may be more than it is worth so now might be the perfect time to contemplate forging relationships with philanthropic funders. Any form of funding, however, whether it be from the Crown or elsewhere, will always be subject to changing priorities, competition and compromise. Therefore, some suggestions for indigenous organisations to consider are: the importance of clear goals and principles; self reliance is the key to independence of thought and action; comfort can be dangerous; making time to imagine beyond the immediate and taking the long view. Similarly, some suggestions for funders were offered: remember the difference between supporting and stifling; design programmes to effect social transformation, not just social service ‘quick fix’ solutions; and accept that privilege brings responsibility.

This wānanga was founded on revolutionary thought. It is up to us to continue the conversation.

Visit us at 144 Tasman Road, Ōtaki Phone us at 0800 WĀNANGA Visit our website at www.wananga.com Email us at tetomonga@twor-otaki.ac.nz

The third keynote speaker, Jessica Hutchings, has presented regularly at TWOR-hosted conferences. Her desire is

Otaki Community Patrol

We need new patrollers!

We are volunteers, providing a valuable community service, just like the Fire Brigade, Surf Lifsavers and St John Ambulance.

We are the eyes and ears for the Police, working together to build a safer community.

We aim to provide an excellent service to the community and Police, so we need the right kind of people as patrollers. To qualify you first need to pass police vetting and then undergo assessment. People with good observation skills, commonsense, and ability to use a range of technology will be welcomed. Induction and ongoing training is provided. We do daylight, twilight and night shifts so we’re flexible around your availability.

PROPOSAL TO CLOSE MAIN STREET, ŌTAKI TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC Pursuant to the Transport (Vehicular Traffic Road Closure) Regulations 1965, notice is hereby given that the Kāpiti Coast District Council, for the purpose of the Matariki Street Party, proposes to close the following section of road and carpark (partial) to ordinary vehicular traffic for the period indicated below.

Main Street, Ōtaki, section proposed to be closed to ordinary vehicular traffic: • Aotaki Street to Matene Street • Rangatira Street carpark (partial) Period of proposed closure: On Friday 7 July 2017 from 5.00pm to 10.00pm.

Any person objecting to the proposal is called upon to lodge notice of their objection and grounds in writing, before 3.00pm on Friday 23rd June 2017 at the offices of the Kāpiti Coast District Council, 175 Rimu Road, Private Bag 60 601, Paraparaumu 5254, addressed to the Roading Administration Officer.

Contact Errol 027 230 8836 to learn more

PB 60601 Paraparaumu | Ph 04 296 4700 | Fx 04 296 4830 | www.kapiticoast.govt.nz

Page:7

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Mele Murals decorate the town

BY PHILIDELPHIA METE-KINGI

At the 2017 Māoriland Film Festival, a documentary called Mele Murals was screened all the way from Hawaii. They also brought 4 members of “Mele Murals” the project including the artist Estria. Mele Murals is a youth development, arts education, cultural preservation, and community-building programme.

Mele Murals began in 2013, when local artists, youth and community members from all 8 islands of Hawaii started creating series of large scale outdoor murals. Initially the programme was devised by artist Estria, but the programme grew bigger due to the input of dozens of community members.

There are many different goals the programme strives to achieve within every new community they paint a mural/s with. Some examples are: • Create an all-islands public art project that is artistically excellent, deeply connected to the history of Hawaii, and a source of pride.

• Build and sustain an Art in Public movement across the island chain. Beautify the islands with professional works of art.

• Develop arts-interested youth into visual storytellers by educating them on local history, showing them how to connect to ancestors, and developing their artistic skills.

• Provide opportunities for youth to explore Hawaiian oral storytelling tradition, to learn how to read kaona, and to preserve Hawaiian values.

3/5 members of Ngā Pakiaka said they saw Mukakai, a well known Māori Legend in Ōtaki. It is said that Mukakai is a taniwha, a guardian on seafood, kai moana. When he is spotted at sea, it is said that he brings kai moana with him so it is a good time to go fishing, or pipi gathering.

He is seen as a tree, this is why the 1st mural we painted is of a rākau.

The story starts in the Tararua Ranges, where a single tree Mural 3: at Te Kura-ā-Iwi ō Whakatupuranga Rua Mano on the outside wall stands near a puna a pool of water. It is said from everyday. The fish were plentiful and that if you drink the water from the puna, sustained his whānau, iwi and hapū. you will be gifted with the knowledge of the One morning Kupe and his friends lowered world, but first you must be eligible to retheir lines into the water, and got an unexceive this gift, if you are a good person and you do good deeds, the puna will show itself pected tug, they pulled up their lines to find that their bait was gone and no fish on their to you, but if you are not, the puna will hide lines. This happened for the next couple of and not show itself. days, and not one fisherman caught a single One stormy day, when Tawhirimatea was fish. This had never happened to any of unusually unhappy, his strong winds blew them before. the rākau of Mukakai into the puna. The Kupe decided to call a hui, and discuss rākau travelled down the rivers of Tararua what was happening with the rest of the and ended up in the ocean. Mukukai now whānau. He explained the respect that he has a route that he follows and has been for had for Tangaroa and Hinemoa, and also hundreds of years. that the health and wellbeing of his whānau

again, they returned to the shore fish-less.

That night Kupe set out to the other side of the island where another Rangatira Muturangi resided. Muturangi had a pet octopus known for its huge size and influence on the sea. Kupe explained to Muturangi what was happening at the fishing ground, and asked if his octopus might know who is responsible.

Muturangi’s reply was “I don’t tell my octopus where to go and what to eat, if it chooses to eat your bait, so be it”. He then asked Kupe to leave. Kupe’s reply was “Then I will slay your octopus, I will kill Te Wheke ō Muturangi, so that it will never bother my people again.” “Unless it kills you first” was Kupe’s reply.

Kupe then went and gathered a group of people to build a large ocean voyaging canoe to go kill Muturangi’s wheke. They then boarded the canoe including Kupe’s wife Hine-te-Aparangi, and over a course of 4 weeks they chased the wheke through the pacific ocean. Finally one morning Hine-te-Aparangi saw a long white cloud, which was a sign that land was near.

Hine-te-Aparangi named the land Aotearoa, land of the long white cloud.

Mural 1: the Taniwha beside the sushi shop When Mele Murals arrived at Māoriland, they met with us “Ngā Pakiaka” the Māoriland Rangatahi Festival. We all sat around in a circle and through a meditation session asked our tūpuna our ancestors, what we would be painting on the three walls that were designated for Mele Murals to paint.

Estria asked us a series of questions including what colours we were seeing.

This is how the first idea for the first mural came into play.

Although he is a kaitiaki, it is said not to touch him if you see him in your rohe to keep you your whānau, iwi and hapū safe and out of danger. This is what the mural on the wall of the sushi shop in Ōtaki is about.

The 2nd mural that Ngā Pakiaka got to help design, was Te Wheke ō Muturangi. This story starts back in Hawaiki. Kupe, was a rangatira, one of the great fisherman of Hawaiki. Kupe and his iwi has a specific area of moana or ocean that they fished

meant a lot to him and we get to the bottom of the problem.

The next morning, Kupe and his mates lowered their lines into the water. Again they pulled them up to find the bait gone. They lowered them down again, and this time when they pulled the lines up, not only was the bait gone, but there was also a slimy substance on the hooks. Kupe identified this as slime from an octopus. Kupe knew that it was pointless to continue fishing so once

Kupe landed at Aotearoa and dropped off his family, before continuing to hunt the wheke. After a long battle chasing him, Kupe finally caught the wheke and slayed it. This is the story of Te Wheke ō Muturangi, this is what is portrayed into the mural around the back of the Māoriland Hub. The 3rd and final Mural which is situated at Te Kura-ā-Iwi ō Whakatupuranga Rua Mano on one of the outside walls of a classroom. The mural shows a eye looking from the past into the future. This also shows a connection to the environment.

All images used are representations of our constant focus on moving forward guided by our past and our environment and world view. Taking stock of our present. Setting course for the future.

Within the pupil of the eye is the constellation of Matariki set within Te Ikaroa (Milky Way). It symbolises a fresh new start and the potential we all have, but also reinforces the Māori worldview and the creation story.

Heralding from the realms of Te Kore to Te Ao Marama. Which will be here long after we have gone.

All Kutz Hair salon 59 Main street, Ōtaki

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

9-5 9-5 9-5 9-7

Friday Saturday Sunday

9-4 9-1 closed

walk in for an appointment or book 364 5762

Mural 2: Te Wheke ō Muturangi, the octupus, at the rear of the Maoriland Hub

Page:8

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Taking Otaki’s pulse

Live well, get well, stay well

Ōtaki Community Health Centre 186 Mill Road, Otaki Monday – Friday Yoga Otaki Women’s Health Centre The Hearing Company Sexual Health Clinics Temperton & Associates Accountants Cervical Screening Clinics New Zealand Association of Counsellors Counselling Ann-Marie Stapp – Social Work Practitioner Total Mobility Agent Narcotics Anonymous Health Information MidCentral DHB The MenzShed Alcohol & Other Drugs Service, Meals on Wheels Child, Adolescent & Family Mental Health and Adult Mental Health Service Rooms available for rent, long or short term For information on services phone Janet or Michelle on 364 6367

STRESSED OUT? Free counselling is available For Parents/Caregivers with children 0 to 17 years. Ōtaki Women’s Health Centre Is offering free counselling Tuesdays by appointment 06 364 6367 Anyone affected by cancer, whether they are the patient or support person is welcome to contact our new coordinator, Amber Marshall who extends an invitation to the Ōtaki Community to have a monthly support group meeting starting on the 29th June.

Amber.Marshall@cancercd.org.nz PH 06 367 8065 FAX 06 367 8057 Mobile 027 542 0066

Annette King Talks Health At a public meeting called by the Labour Party, Annette King showed us how formidable her knowledge is about our health system.

Introduced by the local candidate Rob McCann, she spoke to around 50 plus attendees about the recent health budget and Labour’s future plans for our health system.

When she was Minister, she said she always ensured that three basic principles formed part of her request to the finance minister every year– annual increases must be enough to cover the increasing pressures of cost, wages and population growth. Otherwise health funding goes backwards and a ‘hole’ appears. The nett effect of the budgets for the last eight which did not take account of these factors has resulted in a hole of $1.7 billion. The health system must meet government’s priorities and is now under enormous pressure.

The failure in mental health, up and down New Zealand, is an example of the pressure from inadequate funding. The police are now the front line mental health workers because there is scant money for primary care in the community.

For Labour mental health must be a priority: proper funding, early intervention and nurses in schools are all part of their policy in an attempt to keep patients from needing critical care in a hospital.

By Ann Chapman

Nissin Browning This month we have a follow-up article to our one on acupuncture a couple of months ago. In that one we introduced you to the concept of acupuncture and this month we introduce a practitioner new to Ōtaki.

With over 20 years experience Nissin Browning trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for four years in America in a Chinese Medical University. She is ACC accredited and New Zealand licensed. She is fascinated with Chinese medicine’s ability to bring more vibrant energy and harmony to people who feel out of sync.

Whether it’s an accident you’re needing a speedier recovery from, or it’s digestion, asthma, allergies, muscles, vision, or menstruation that bother you, she is confident that Chinese medicine can make a difference in your life.

It has been treating hard working people and Emperor’s for over five thousand years. Chinese medicine is unique in that it can strengthen people from the inside out. Chinese herbs build our resilience and stamina, stopping a cold from progressing into a nasty infection.

Nissin is experienced in women’s health, enclosed head injury, general family health, and addiction resolution with a special interest in stroke rehabilitation where acupuncture is showing remarkable benefits.

With an impressive CV of education and qualifications Nissin brings an additional science in healthy living which in China a works alongside western medicine.

Nissin hopes to run a community clinic as well as taking clients in her rooms and is planning on working with the newly formed stroke clinic.

There are seven other health priorities in addition to mental health: • Reducing health inequities - unmet need and difficult access for some

06 364 6655 Dunstan Street, Otaki

• Preventing and managing non-communicable diseases • Primary health care • Oral health

Cancer Society shop 112 Winchester Street, Levin Hours Mon-Fri 9am-3pm

Ōtaki has a new health practice, with Ash Crawford and partner Delta offering physiotherapy and podiatry.

They met at uni in Auckland, and after a period in Wellington moved to Ōtaki, establishing their headquarters in Rangiuru road.

Ash played soccer at the top level, and 'kept injuring myself', which lead him to appreciate how physio can help with sporting injuries.

Now professionally qualified, he offers manipulation to help ease osteo-arthritis, joint & muscle pain, and they both can also use dry needling (a relative of acupuncture) an alternative therapy to massage, which is a useful and effective way of relieving muscle tightness.

Ash works out of home and Nga Purapura, and is about to commence a project at Ōtaki College for the Ministry of Education.

Partner Delta specialises in podiatry - including general foot care and orthotics, and will see you both at the clinic and can arrange home visits.

An Ōtaki Mail reporter highly recommends Ash Crawford's manipulative skills, so you should see him with confidence!

Call 022 470 9180 NOW for friendly, efficient and top quality service

PHYSIO & PODIATRY

271 Rangiuru Road, Ōtaki

• Children’s health – obesity in children is nearly endemic, ante-natal care should be there at the beginning of pregnancy • Older persons’ health – providing care in the home is cost effective. Mandatorily training is a must for the carers of older people.

• Health workforce – it is getting older and new graduates can’t find jobs and there is no long term planning anymore. Making better use of Independent Nurse Practitioners is a good solution.

In addition Annette, in response to a question said that government must fully-fund ambulance services with double crewing and paramedics available for every emergency.

Yes - It’s That Time Again It’s Flu vaccination time. Influenza, which can be deadly in some high risk groups, is a common viral infection. The flu attacks the lungs, nose, and throat.

Young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic disease or weak immune systems are at high risk.

Flu spreads easily and is usually easily managed at home with rest, plenty of fluids, and asprin or Panadol. Symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, runny nose, headaches, fatigue and they usually resolve within days. It spreads by coughs or sneezes, handshakes, hugs, or saliva by way of kissing or shared drinks. It is also a good idea to wash your hands repeatedly as the infection can stay on door handles and light switches easily, so have some antibacterial lotions handy for your hands.

An annual vaccine can help prevent the flu and limit its complications so consult your medical centre for advice.

Lucy Feltham Physiotherapist (member PNZ NZPPA,sports and orthopaedic group, NZ sports medicine. NZMPA) 26 years fulltime clinical experience Diploma of Physiotherapy, 1990 Certificate of Manipulative Therapy 2002 Member physio sports and orthopaedic group Member New Zealand Sports Medicine ex academy of sport provider treated 2 Silver Fern and 1 Wellington regional player.

Services:

General Physiotherpy & Sports physiotherapy Advanced tendon rehabilitation from regular updates at annual sports medicine conference.

Hand therapy. Exercise prescription- all ages.

Biomechanical assessment ,strapping and taping Post op rehabilitation. Chest Physiotherapy

16 Dunstan Street Otaki Ph/ fax 06 364 7027 free physio for ACC patients self-referral or GP-referral Hours 9am -6pm Monday -Friday

INFLUENZA VACCINATIONS are now available at the ŌTAKI MEDICAL CENTRE Bookings essential

Influenza immunisations is FREE for people who are most at risk Please phone for your appointment on 06 364 8555

Page:9

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Penny’s Piece:

also had the added concern with raised water levels in the Rangiuru Stream. The Ōtaki River mouth influences the flow through the flood gates on the Rangiuru and the Ōtaki River had exceeded its southern trigger point, making the cut necessary.

Cutting of Ōtaki river mouth The Ōtaki River mouth was recently cut to get a more direct flow to the sea. The cut was programmed after the 2 February 2017 flood event which had an 8 year return period (largest since 2005) which flooded a number of houses along Marine Parade and Kapiti Lane at Ōtaki Beach.

Staff checked the beaches before the work started for bird life, and as the work was on wet beaches which are tidal and unsuitable for nesting birds they had no concerns. The key sensitivity period for nesting birds is the 1st August till the 28th of February) and the work didn’t start until the 13th of

While in most cases GWRC staff prefer to let nature take its course when it comes to mouth cuts, they

James' Jottings Kapiti feeling its own Growing Pains.

Having two young kiddies I remember the times they have complained about aches and pains commonly referred to as “growing pains”. Like a young child growing up, the Kapiti Coast is currently experiencing its own growing pains with new developments, subdivision and rising property prices.

Real Estate agents are short of listings, with many houses selling quickly and generally selling well over their RV. This is great for the sellers, whether they be

Chris' Chat

One of the great things about the Kāpiti Coast District Council is that it has encouraged the development of local grassroots input and democracy by having its four community boards based on the Ōtaki, Waikanae, Paraparaumu-Raumati and Paekakariki wards.

We tend to take the existence of the Community Boards for granted but there are many City and District Councils which have no community board inputs and which even work actively to discourage their development.

Those local government entities which have community boards, more often than not, do not allow CB members to sit at the Council table or to take part in debates.

March.

Capital Connection update In recent months Greater Wellington Regional Council and Horizons Regional Council have co-funded developing a current business case for the future funding of the Capital Connection service. This work is nearly complete and I look forward to receiving the report. The state of play remains that the Capital Connection was only given a reprieve

by Government until the middle of 2018. The clock is ticking on determining what long term cer-

tainty Ōtaki has for a passenger rail connection for commuters to Wellington.

With the General Election in September, we in Ōtaki will want to know which political parties will back the retention of the Capital Connection.

And of course we also want to know where all the Parties stand on the long term sustainable transport solution for Ōtaki and whether they will commit to Government funding for the extension of electrification from Waikanae to Ōtaki.

I’ve heard first hand examples of good families facing genuine hardship and it saddens and challenges me!

of this I am reminded of the Maori proverb “He Tangata he tangata he tangata” It is the people, it is the people, it is the people.

However there is a saying I often use… “every action has a reaction” and with the boom or demand in property it has caused many local people to struggle with increased rental prices. Sadly, in some instances, even causing them to be unable to provide the necessities for their whanau as they try to keep a roof over their heads. And some are forced them to shift north to the Horowhenua.

As a Council we can’t stop growth and you don’t have to look far to read numerous articles about housing shortages around the country and pressure on Councils to enable development. What is important is that it’s sustainable development and considers the effects on the local community. There will always be challenges… heck even recently we had decline an offer to save a parcel of land with mature trees a developer had offered to Council to buy as the cost to purchase and maintain was too prohibitive. However behind all

I need to be clear, I’m not bemoaning the growth and development. This is positive for Ōtaki but simply reminding us all there are side effects. Council’s role is not one of providing more housing or increasing benefits etc but we should be advocating to Central Government on behalf of those that are vulnerable..... and you? Know your neighbours, give a little when you have a lot and support the various groups in our community helping those facing hardship.

KCDC encourages board members to attend meetings and even gives opportunities for us to speak and to comment on issues affecting our communities. We do not have voting rights, but our voices are heard.

All your OCB members take the opportunity to attend meetings.

others and exchanging knowledge and experiences. Conference sessions and speakers were well chosen and some, in particular, Sam Johnson, best known for founding the Student Volunteer Army after the Christchurch earthquakes, were particularly inspiring.

well with all those he met.

Three Ōtaki Community Board members, along with several from the other Boards in the Kāpiti Coast District, attended the national Community Boards’ conference in Methven earlier this month.

We found many of the others attending from around the country were often quite envious of the involvement our Council allows and encourages us to have in their planning and deliberations.

One of the strong areas of focus for Kāpiti Council is the development of our Youth Council and on my recommendation Council decided this year that a youth representative would come with our Community Board delegation to the conference.

individuals, a developer or a keen investor, and provides good healthy investment into the area as the tradies pick up a lot more work. The flow on affect from all this results in more money going around and more employment being available.

The conference itself was very well organised and provided many opportunities for networking with

The Youth Councillor chosen was Ben Keiboom, a Year 13 student from Kāpiti College. While Ben was the youngest person present, in most cases by a good many decades, he mixed extremely well with the “olds” and engaged very

Penny Gaylor

Greater Wellington Regional Councillor penny.gaylor@gw.govt.nz 027 664 8869

James Cootes

Ōtaki’s KCDC Councillor james.cootes@kapiticoast.govt.nz 0274 572 346

I am on the national CB Executive and represent what is known as Zone 4 which covers the southern section of the North Island and I chaired a meeting of the Zone 4 members during the conference.

OCB member, Shelly Warwick, attended the conference along with Marilyn Stevens. I’d like to finish by quoting an email of Shelly’s to Mayor Guru thanking Council for the opportunity attend. “ I think it is beneficial for councils to have informed and strong community boards, as we are really the link between council and the communities, and if we work well together we hopefully have happier communities..” Well said, Shelly.

Chris Papps

Ōtaki Community Board Chair christinep@kapiticoast.govt.nz 027 201 6435

Rookie of the year

Sarah Lange 1st - Properties sold in group

Otaki Office Property Manager of the year

Jenny Rogers Otaki Office - doing what we do best!!

Otaki Office: 06 364 7720

Sarah Lange: 022 317 7613

Jenny Rogers: 021 244 9796

Page:10

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017 Tempus Fugit!

In a couple of weeks it is 3 years since we celebrated the official opening of our shed, barely 6 months after our inaugural meeting and after a marathon effort to renovate the old building.

Three years on we are 44 members strong [including 9 ladies] and justifiably proud of the over 300 hours of free labour we contribute annually to local causes and community groups. That's in addition to the numerous repairs, builds, installs and projects big and small that we undertake for ourselves and for others. Currently in our workshop our 'Toi Boys' continue to produce a variety of wooden toys [aeroplanes are the latest] and are restoring two

old tin bulldozers.

Where: Behind the Ōtaki Community Health Centre, 186 Mill Road, Ōtaki (driveway opposite Domain Road) When: Tues, Thurs 10-3 Contact: MenzShed 022 4069 439 Email: otakimenzshed@outlook.com Web: facebook.com/otakimenzshed Ōtaki Menzshed Incorporated is a registered charity CC50404. We do work for koha which is then used to fund our activities.

Matariki

on Main Street Friday July 7 • 6-9pm

Donations/koha can be made directly to our KiwiBank account 389015-0439770-00

Sheddies Tony King and Ian Futter with their Energy Cube designed

by Energise Ōtaki for the Ōtaki College Curious Minds project.

Gael Ferguson (L) of Energise Ōtaki and Dawn Hirschberg, head of Science at Ōtaki College look on. photo credit: David Timperley

Curtain Remains High

BY MARGARET ANDREWS

Thorpe and Eddie Jorey.

It was certainly “Curtain Up” for the Ōtaki Players 70th birthday celebrations, with people from all seven decades attending the festivities.

Mari Housiaux arrived in the gown she wore in the 1964 production of His House in Order, directed by Ivan Lawson. Eddie Jorey, now 93, who directed 11 plays between 1971 and 2003, shared some of his memories and played a couple of violin numbers,

It was a night of glamour and memories.

Master of Ceremonies and long ting time member, Brent Bythell, welcomed all present from near and far; one came even as far as Brisbane.

Ōtaki Players earlier members, Mari Housiaux, Ivan Lawson and Edna Sams.Mari is wearing the gown she wore in Ivan’s 1964 production of His House in Order

Dill Pickle Rag and Pig Ankle Rag. Local ukulele players, The Whine Club Ukulele Group entertained with several numbers, too, many of the group have been and still

Author’s Book Corner

A new book from Penelope Haines Ōtaki author Penelope Haines is back with a new book; sequel to Death on D'Urville,.

Her heroine, aviator Claire Hardcastle is involved in another adventure.

While Claire’s partner, Jack, is away on secondment for a month to the Solomon’s, Claire plans to use the time to settle down to her studies, observe Dry July and think about the direction in which their passionate relationship is heading. If only life were that simple!

The night Claire meets newly arrived property developer Jim Mason is also the night she has a chance conversation with investigative journalist Andrew Camborne, who’s been researching reports of crime and corruption on the Kapiti Coast.

A short time later, Claire is witness to an altercation between the two men. The next morning, Andrew’s dead body is found on a Paraparaumu street. Is the cause of death accident, or homicide?

Claire’s just taken on Jim’s teenage daughter, Melody, as a flying student, so she desper-

Photo: Larisa Winterburn

Contact: Ōtaki Promotions Group, Debbi Carson 364 6543 or Kirsty Doyle 021 102 0058

are involved with Ōtaki Players.

The 70th birthday cake, iced to represent the front of the auditorium, was cut by Edna Sams and Deirdre Atmore.

At intervals throughout much of the evening there was a Blast from the Past, videoed snippets from many of the later 151 shows the society has staged. Many of these were a series of one act shows amounting to 63 short plays over 19 shows. These brought gales of laughter as people saw themselves on stage over the last 18 to 20 years.

“Ōtaki Players 70 years old, it blows your mind,” Kapiti Mayor K Gurunathan said as he declared the evening open. “You are perhaps one of the oldest societies in the Kapiti district.”

From the front entrance through to the auditorium there were displays of costumes, photographs and albums, show posters and even some of the “advertising” sweatshirts cast members purchased to advertise the show. They made useful and wearable keepsakes too. Among some of the earlier members at celebrations from the 1960’s and ‘70’s were Edna Sams, Deirdre Atmore, Ivan Lawson, Mari Housiaux, Anne

Whanau fun, kai, entertainment.

A midwinter party in Otaki to celebrate Matariki.

ately hopes Andrew’s death is accidental, but rumours are circulating that suggest Jim and his company might be central to an upsurge of crime and corruption occurring in Kapiti.

Informers have reported ‘something new’ planned by the local gangs, and police are anxious to discover what this is. Claire and her aircraft are recruited to help the police with surveillance work. Unfortunately, aircrafts and the pilots who fly them, are easily identifiable, and Claire is vulnerable.

After a particularly vicious attempt to intimidate her, her confidence is knocked badly. She tries to understand who would have cause to attack her. The only bright spot on the horizon is that Jack will be home in a couple of days.

A botched police raid results in fugitive criminals abducting Claire and Melody, who are then forced to fly the crims to the safety of a remote hideout. Thrust forcibly into a world of eco-terrorism, drugs and violence, the two women have to use all their initiative to survive. Claire’s skill and courage as a pilot is put to the ultimate test as she and Melody seek to extricate them-

The show may have been over, but, in true theatre tradition, the chatter and laughter went on until midnight, as old friends caught with people they hadn’t seen for 'years'.

To the members of the organising committee, Brent Bythell a member since1973, Ivy Rutter 1979, Gail Hall 1980 and relative selves from their plight.

Penelope was fortunate to spend several years working as a light aircraft pilot and instructor, flying out of Paraparaumu Airport. It was inevitable that she would one day use that beautiful and dynamic environment as a background in her novels.

The character of Claire first appeared in Death on D’Urville, and is an amalgam of women pilots Penelope met during her flying years. As a breed they are sassy, courageous and confident women. Penelope hopes this series pays tribute to them.

Although gender equality has meant an

new comers Peter Carr 1999 and Roger Thorpe mid 2000’s, it was a great evening enjoyed by all. Just enough formalities and plenty of time to chat.

Roll on the next 25 years, who will be returning for the 100 year celebration.

Edna Sams and Deirdre Atmore shared the ceremonial cutting of the birthday cake. “The years gone by since I was part of the Players have been far too many,” Deirdre said

increasing number of women choosing aviation as a career, they make up only a small proportion of the overall number of pilots, a fact Penelope still finds surprising.

Penelope realised early on that there were simply too many stories and adventures centred round aviation to contain them all in one novel, so a series was born. Penelope is currently writing the third episode of Claire’s adventures which will be out in 2018.

She became a writer when she realized she could gaze out of the window with a glass of wine in her hands and claim to be working.

Her previous occupations of Nurse, Management Consultant, Parent, Farm Manager, CEO and Commercial Pilot failed to achieve this simple clarity.

Training as a nurse taught her not to kill patients; training as a flying instructor taught her to be patient as students attempted to kill her. Writing mystery novels allows her to explore new and creative ways of murdering those who have offended her. So far the results of that exploration have remained purely fantastical.

Page:11

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

FOCUS ON - Penny Gaylor Today's 'Focus' is on someone known to most readers of this newspaper. We asked her for her story, and like a good journalist, she obliged. Here's how Penny describes herself:

"The threads between politics and journalism As long as I can remember I had an inkling I would be involved in politics and journalism. At all stages in my life those two elements have had a play in my working life, and my studies. I remember asking my careers advisor at Ashburton College what could I do with a politics degree. He responded I could be a political scientist, and I remember thinking, ‘gosh, there must only be a handful of those in the whole of New Zealand’.

My journalism started early when I was at college writing some stories for the school newspaper.

I left college early in my seventh form year, to begin my adventure in Wellington, drawn there as the centre of politics. After a year in my first job at a shipping company I saw a newspaper ad for a junior in the Press Office of then Prime Minister, David Lange.

Despite my parents adoring Muldoon, I applied for the Beehive role, and to my huge surprise and delight got the job. That job would be the foundation of my career in politics and communications; it would also prove to be the catalyst my personal political story.

Sometimes I joke with my friends that my life has been akin to that of Forrest Gump, because along the way I have found myself in the midst of some extraordinary stories of the day just as Gump’s story traversed

By Lloyd Chapman

many historical events.

In Lange’s office I was there for the initial Fijian coup (my office was the communications centre as the events unfolded. I was the runner around the Parliamentary Press Gallery (who would have thought of the texting updates back then) when Lange called the press conference to announce the fate of Roger Douglas.

When I worked at Police, I managed the national and international media for the Bain Family murders. How uncanny that, in later years, when I was Communications Manager at the Ministry of Justice I would handle the media for that same Inquiry.

Then when I worked at the Inland Revenue Department I was assigned to the communications role for the Winebox Inquiry, a Commission of Inquiry in to allegations of corruption in the IRD and Serious Fraud Office triggered by Winston Peters often attending the Hearings in Auckland, managing the relentless media enquiries.

awakening for the New Zealanders paralleled my own personnel awakening of the awareness and scale of the issue.

writing regular columns and radio interviews to live my approach to being open and accountable to people."

I look back to my own story. While in Lange’s office I realised that to rise from being the junior I needed to go to university. The first year I could do both, university in the morning studying politics and history, in the afternoons Lange’s office, evenings were waitressing in a restaurant.

That's her story, but wait: there's more. In 2007, Penny Gaylor moved to Ōtaki, to live on ten acres in Waitohu Valley Road.

She and Kerry Bevan scion of an old Ōtaki family married the next year. They now have two sons, Louis, 10 and Giorgio aged 8, who both go to Waitohu, and eventually will go to Ōtaki College.

Then half way into my degree I became a single mum, it never occurred to me put a hold on my studies. So I juggled parenting, International Political economy papers, and cleaning professional friends’ houses to make ends meet.

I completed my degree, and then rolled on from there to a journalism course. Then a gruelling year-long stint as Murry McCully’s press secretary I returned to Victoria University to do my post-graduate Honours degree in Political Representation.

From there I moved on to the Ministry of Justice where aside from the work related to media management of significant changes in public law, I also managed the huge communications exercise for the Chief Electoral Office of the 1999 General Election – a huge undertaking for training election officers around the country and media management in an election where everything that could go wrong went wrong; bags of votes missing, an incredibly late result due to counting the votes of the referenda.

For all those years I was myself been a single mum, and like everyone I was head down focussed on my family of two, ensuring I earned enough to provide for my son Matt. Hearing the harrowing stories at Barnardos gave me the unexpected impetus to not just be the behind the scene person but to possibly, in some way, if I could, step forward in to politics myself. For all the cynicism that I do encounter in society and in politics, I do still believe things can change, I’ve just learnt that it takes an amazing amount of determination and courage.

Then on to Barnardos as the Communications Manager where the political advocacy work on the issue of child poverty – the

The threads between politics and journalism continue through my time as an elected representative on the Kapiti Coast, with

Having seen politics 'from the inside', Penny couldn't turn down the opportunity to serve, and in 2008 was elected to the Ōtaki Community Board. Three years later she was elected to Kapiti Coast District Council, where she served for six years, chairing a number of committies.

Last year, Penny was elected to represent Kapiti on the Greater Wellington Regional Council. She's already distinguished herself in stimulating GWRC to find a solution to incursions of the Mangaone Stream onto Te Horo Beach Road, and is at last giving Kapiti a voice in the important Wellington arena. ....And now the wheel has come full circle.

In 2016 the Bevan family purchased Darryl & Annabel McLaren's Bell Street house, where for many years, Annabel produced the Ōtaki Mail.

Today, with great pleasure, Ann & Lloyd Chapman welcome Penny Gaylor into the ownership of the Ōtaki Mail.

The newspaper, of which we are all proud, remains firmly rooted in Ōtaki.

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Page:12

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Gardening with Focus on growing beetroot

Citrus galore!

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There’s a great deal more to this easy-to-grow vegetable than the tinned product you find on supermarket shelves – a commercial equivalent of boiling, slicing and submerging beetroot in a vinegar and sugar solution, a process that drowns its mellow, earthy flavour.

Sow seed about 12mm deep in rows or blocks. Seed germinates readily and reliably but for a quick and even start, give ground a good soaking straight after sowing, or soak seed in tepid water for an hour or two.

This versatile vegetable makes wonderful soup, like the rich, spicy, very yummy borsch in winter, and lighter chilled versions for summer, and they are also delicious roasted. You can boil or steam baby beets and serve hot or cold with a light dressing. They’re delectable grated raw in salads, and leaves are also nice added to salads and stir-fries. If you end up with an over-supply, preserve with spices, vinegar and sugar syrup or make chutney.

Firm soil well with your hand or a rake after sowing, and keep lightly moist until seedlings appear – usually in about two weeks.

Beetroot is as close to fool-proof as any home-grown crop gets, providing you attend to the basics. It’s not disease-proof – it can get leaf-miner, mildew and leaf spotting fungi – but you still get rich red tubers.

A wide range of beetroot types are available. Round tubers, such as the popular and reliable ‘Detroit Red’ and ‘Derwent Globe’ are good for quick spring crops and harvesting as baby beets.

Choose a sunny, free-draining spot, work in well-rotted compost and loosen soil before sowing (some garden centres have beetroot plants available as seedlings). Ideally sow after a green manure crop or a green leafy one such as lettuces (but not after silver-beet, a very close relative).

Long tubers, which are similar to a carrot, are best if you want crops that give even slices or are easy to grate. ‘Cylindra’ is a popular long tuber type.

More compact than their larger siblings they suit a small garden or even a pot.

Beetroot likes a near neutral soil, so add lime, though well before sowing as beetroot resents fresh lime.

Fresh manure, such as sheep pellets, helps plants really whizz along.

Start sowing in early spring, and for best results sow where it is to grow. Sowing every three to four weeks will ensure a steady supply of fresh beetroot.

Many varieties in bud available

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For those looking for something a bit different try ‘Bulls Blood’, an heirloom variety with stunning dark red leaves and striped roots.

You can buy different coloured alternatives from specialist mail order seed suppliers like Kings Seeds or in Niche Seeds’ Beetroot Gourmet Colour Selection at some garden centres.

These autumn and spring flowering members of the Rhododendron family put on a stunning display.

Red Mountain

Harvest by using a fork to loosen soil around the beetroot when lifting, and store in a cool dark place, leaving stalks on until you’re ready to cook.

Beetroot comes in yellow as well, like ‘Golden Globe’, which doesn’t bleed like its red sisters, and there are also white varieties.

Vireya Rhododendrons Lighten the Winter Blues

Popcorn

Beetroot needs adequate soil moisture so water plants in dry periods to keep them growing.

Page:13

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

the Ōtaki Mail

BY VIVIENNE BAILEY viv.bailey@xtra.co.nz

Garden tasks for June Flower garden Plant lily bulbs or divide existing ones. Dig up bulbs and divide bulb scales - plant in seed-raising mix.

Lift and divide daylilies.

When dahlias have finished, lift tubers and store in a dry place.

Trim back perennials such as penstemons, achillea, phlox and asters.

Prune hydrangeas - garden lime will improve pink colour, aluminium sulphate will do the same for blue.

Sprinkle a bit of lime around carnations, dianthus, gyphsophila and clematis.

Plant hellebores – dig compost into soil before planting.

Sow seeds or plant seedlings of alyssum, calendula, Canterbury bells, carnations, cornflowers, dianthus, delphinium, hollyhocks, honesty, Iceland poppies, larkspur, nemesia, nigella, pansies, primula, snapdragons, statice, stock, sweet peas and violas.

Fruit and vegetable garden Mulch fruit trees and berry fruit plants to prevent weeds, which compete for nutrients.

Sprinkle a generous handful of Dolomite lime to each square metre around deciduous fruit trees.

Dig and divide rhubarb now. Discard tough, old woody growth and save and replant young, vigorous crowns in well- composted soil.

Start planting deciduous fruit and citrus trees. Citrus likes a sunny, well-drained position.

Fruit tree pruning can start as soon as leaves have dropped. Protect cuts with pruning paste.

Plant out strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries and currants. You can propagate strawberry runners from existing plants, providing runners are taken from healthy plants. Replant in well-composted soil or elevated beds or containers.

Chervil enhances all basic winter standbys, such as casseroles, soups and stews, as well as some of our favourite cheese and egg dishes – it makes a great substitute for parsley in scrambled eggs. It’s also one of the best culinary herbs for making herb butter because of its clean, fresh flavour.

Often called French parsley, chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) is a winter annual, which grows to a height of 25-38cm, and is best sown in autumn as the weather starts to cool down.

It’s long, thin black seeds, 6mm long and enclosed in a case until ripe, resemble small arrows. They’re best sown directly into the patch where they’re to grow, but can also be sown into trays, covered lightly with potting mix and seedlings pricked out two to three weeks later – ripe seeds germinate rapidly.

The herb has pretty, ferny-green leaves with dainty, white flowers, and likes a sunny spot with welldrained, light soil. However a graceful clump of chervil plants will retain more flavour in the feathery foliage if grown in light shade Chervil will soon let you know when it’s unhappy – leaves turn pink and white if growing conditions are too hot, and it will quickly run to seed. Although hardy, some protection (such as a cloche) may be needed during very cold spells.

Specialists in Native Plants

Plant garlic cloves into a light, well-drained soil in full sun - dig in plenty of compost and well-rotted manure before planting, or a general fertiliser high in potash.

Garlic from a supermarket is often sprayed with an anti-sprouting chemical, so buy cloves from a garden centre or mail-order nursery. Plant cloves just below soil surface, 10cm apart.

Cut back and divide globe artichokes.

This is a good month for planting onions, including shallots and spring onions. Plant them in a sunny, sheltered spot in limed soil.

Plant out seedlings of broccoli, cauliflower, Chinese cabbage, Brussels sprouts, endive, kale, leeks, lettuce, silver-beet, spinach and radish.

Sow broad beans directly into well-limed soil.

Peas can also be sown straight into the ground.

Lawns Once you’ve collected autumn leaves for composting, your lawn won’t need mowing frequently, and then try to choose a dry, sunny day.

June is a good month to carry out any mower repairs and maintenance.

Second thoughts Plan new roses to plant this winter – check out your local specialist rose grower to see which varieties grow well in your area.

Prepare rose beds now by digging in plenty of compost or aged cow manure.

Chervil: a great winter herb The soup and stew season is upon us again – time to savour chervil, a stalwart for winter use, and one which deserves to be grown more widely.

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As with parsley, harvest the young leaves for the best flavour. The tiny, delicate flowers, which taste of sweet aniseed, can also be eaten – try them as a garnish on salads and soups.

Chervil is traditionally used as ‘fines herbes,’ the French technique of using a selection of finely chopped herbs, which also include parsley, chives and French tarragon, to sprinkle over dishes like cooked vegetables, soups, salads, white fish and egg dishes, just before serving (to avoid flavour loss).

Chervil, with its hint of anise, is certainly best added at the end of cooking.

Although the herb doesn’t dry well – flavour is reduced – you can freeze in ice-block trays so you have some on hand during summer. Just add to trays, fill with water and freeze.

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Page:14

BY MARGARET ANDREWS

The Ōtaki Community Board held its latest meeting on May 23. Chair, Chris Papps welcomed all present.

The Public Speaking time began with hearing of funding grant applications.

Community Grant Fund: Ōtaki College principal, Andy Fraser spoke to the $500 funding application to assist with hosting the Maori Youth Leadership Development Programme, which the College will host at Raukawa Marae, with students from Kapiti and Paraparaumu colleges attending; this is one of three programmes run jointly by the three schools.

He also spoke to a second application for development at the college’s horticultural block where they are now beginning to develop plots for family and whanau to grow their own vegetables. The funds are to purchase garden edging timber. Currently produce from the gardens is used in school programmes and the Ōtaki Foodbank.

Councillor, James Cootes said it was “really good to see the developing courses in horticulture and agriculture at the college”. This was dealt with later in the meeting.

Kapiti Chorale Ōtaki member, Judy Whitaker spoke to their successful application for $265 to assist with the costs of printing and advertising for two concerts. Board member, Shelly Warwick asked about the proceeds on hand from the concerts, Mrs Whitaker said with costs of venue, printing programmes and advertising. They also had to pay about $3,000 in fees for a “good” conductor. They had doubled their subscription rate last year, but there were no profits.

Twelve Ōtaki people are members of the choir and travel weekly to Paraparaumu for rehearsals. Their concerts are popular in Ōtaki. A large number of people travel from here to concerts in other venues.

Hinemaia Te Hei, Irihia Te Aho Ki Te Rangi and Matawai Winiata, all from Te Kura Kaupapa Maori O Te Rito had applied individually for $500, to attend the World Indigenous People’s Conference in Education – Youth Programme, to be held in Toronto Canada.

Matawai said she was hoping to go to the conference to show “how our culture and how our language, te reo, has improved.”

Board member, Marilyn Stevens asked how their attendance at the conference would help Ōtaki. Irihia said she was hoping to

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017 learn about other cultures too. Matawai’s mother, who is chaperoning the girls said there would be 3,000 participants attending. The girls were all year 13 students and would be giving presentations at Te Wananga o Raukawa on their return as part of completing their degrees through the Wananga.

Each received the $500 requested.

The Ōtaki Amicus Club (formerly Probus) was approved $500 to assist with costs of bus and travel costs for members’ outings twice a year. Bus hire is about $500 per trip. There are 85 members paying an annual $20 subscription. For many elderly on fixed incomes the subsidised trips are their only outing to exhibitions and such. The application was spoken to by Bruce Heather Hanna Wagner-Nicholls, from Energise Ōtaki Group’s application for $500 to assist with costs of providing free lined curtains to people with a Community Services Card, was granted. Fifty three Ōtaki families will be warmer this winter with the 186 free lined curtains, to cover windows in the living areas and bedrooms of their homes. Energise Ōtaki volunteers have undertaken to deliver and where necessary install the curtains, with new curtain track and hooks. This project is organised through Wellington’s Curtain Bank. They were granted $1,000.“Thank you, it’s a great service,” Ms Stevens said.

Len Nicholls from the Ōtaki Branch NZ Genealogists, spoke to their application for funds upgrade their old projector, a new projector will cost about $1,000. They have 85 members with 25 regular attendees at meetings. Members are available at the library on Wednesday mornings and able to help people with questions and searches on family history. Public open days are also held. They were granted $500 applied for. Ōtaki Menzshed member, Ruth Barringham, spoke to their application for $450 towards cost of installing security lights and system at their shed at the Ōtaki Community Health Centre. This is to provide safety and security of their equipment and materials.

Sporting Activity Grants Fund: Poutama Mackey Te Rangi Pumamao’s father, William Doctor, spoke to the application for $500 towards costs of attending a rugby tournament in Brisbane that he has been selected to play in. Following Board members discussion, he was informed that the usual procedure if there are several team members applying they will get $500 for the team only. As the tournament is not until end of the year, he was granted $500 at this stage with the proviso there could be a change if more team members applied.

Poutama is a high achiever in sport, winning several medals at the recent National

Waka Ama Championships.

Laken Seng-Maru has been selected to represent the Cook Islands in the Under 19 Women’s Waka Ama squad at the 1st IVF Va’a World Distance Championships to be held in Tahiti. She was granted $500.

Building & Resource Consents Grants Fund: Zeal Education Trust, was approved $200 to assist with cost of resource consent to cover temporary placement of their mobile music box (container set up with instruments) at multi events. The music centre was set up at Ōtaki College last term, attracting 70 or so students each day. David Orchard manager of Zeal Kapiti spoke to the application. Ōtaki Community Recovery Centre was granted $500 to assist with hire of the Body and Soul Gym for the group’s weekly programme. Myrtle Buckley said the aim of the centre is to assist people recovering from stroke, and injuries to regain movement and strength in limbs, joints and muscles. The programme consists of an exercise session which builds hand-brain coordination and use of gym equipment.

Body and Soul Gym owner, Joseph Te Wiata, attends sessions when equipment is in use as there must be a qualified person present. Mr Cootes noted the MidCentral District Health Board was currently looking into what facilities were available in Ōtaki. Ōtaki Indoor Bowls Club was approved $500 to assist with cost of hiring the Ōtaki Bowling Club’s hall at a cost of $650 for the six month season. Clive Newman said the club has two day meetings and one evening session. Members gain camaraderie and friendship through the games challenges. They hold raffles to assist with income, but the committee is reluctant to put up the subscription.

As this was the final OCB meeting for the 2016/17 financial year, the remaining funds in the grants pool were shared between Ōtaki College horticulture garden project $1,286 and Energise Ōtaki $500.

Public Speaking: Ōtaki Promotions Group’s Ian Carson gave notice of the Matariki Street Party they are organising for July 7 with food stalls and cafes open, entertainment and bands, with school kapa haka groups performing. The Maoriland Hub will be open and screening film clips. Main Street will be closed between Aotaki and Matene streets. He told the ŌCB that the Kapiti Coast Council had approached them about “two weeks ago” about holding the event, which the will be funded by KCDC.The Ōtaki Promotions Group is responsible for organising the

annual Ōtaki Kite Festival and the Community Business Group meetings.

Presentation: The Nikau Foundation, a community foundation for the Wellington region, which builds an endowment fund for a particular region - the dedicated Nikau Kapiti Fund, provides a vehicle to enable people to give to their community in perpetuity.

Adrienne Bushell from the Foundation, spoke to the Board members about the history of Community Foundations and how they work through ways of receiving monies in donations or gifts to either an individually named endowment fund, organisational fund, charitable trust handover or to a district fund. Individual Endowment Funds are available for specific purpose, income from one Kapiti fund will be available to support youth leadership and youth management training in Kapiti. “People don’t necessarily see Wellington Region as their local community,” Ms Bushell said.

“The District Fund is for local people and organisations. Local people helping local people.” Ōtaki organisations which have received support are Birthright Ōtaki Inc and Timebank Ōtaki. Other recipients have been Nga Manu Nature Reserve, Special Olympics Kapiti, Youth Quest and Volunteer Kapiti.

All Nikau Foundation trustees are voluntary, as are members of the Kapiti Fund Committee.

Peka Peka to Ōtaki Expressway Update: Ms Stevens reported people from Peka Peka and Te Horo “really want” on and off ramps at Peka Peka. There was to be meeting in the Te Horo Hall May 19.

Matters Under Action: A site on Aotaki Street has been selected for a dog exercise park and should be open

by June 30.

Riverbank Road footpath: the business community was not involved in the previous survey carried out earlier this year, which showed just 25 walkers on the road.

Ms Stevens said she used the road regularly and seldom sees anyone walking.

Tasman Road speed issues: ongoing investigation continuing.

Haruatai Pool Splash Pad: is currently under construction for completion in November.

Beach toilets: were in high demand during the Kite Festival. Mr Cootes said they need a “tidy-up” or maintenance or renewal.

The meeting concluded at 9.57pm.

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Page:15

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Gearing up for Winter PENNY KERR-HISLOP

Good beekeeping is about looking half a season ahead. What we do in winter will help determine how well our spring beekeeping goes.

Make sure your beehive is sited in a warm, sheltered dry (as possible!) site. Beehives that are in damp dark corners of your garden will not thrive over winter and will be slow to move in spring.

Take care that your hive boxes have not sustained damage during the season allowing for draughts and water to intrude, but still have enough top ventilation to enable bees to remove moisture from inside keeping the hive warm and dry. The easiest way to create ventilation is to cut a slot in the edge of your topmat.

Regular feeding continues to be important and it is recommended to use a maximum strength syrup. Keep disturbance to a minimum in order not to break the bee cluster. In winter or cold weather, bees cluster in to a tight ball to maintain a constant temp around the queen. For this they need to consume honey to maintain their energy levels, hence the importance of feeding. In disturbing the cluster, the bees may chill and die.

You may find it necessary to reduce the entrance of the hive down to about 25mm wide to reduce draughts and also to make it harder for mice to enter the hive to make a nice warm home. The mice will take advantage of the warmth, the honey and the wax. They

Ōtaki

Supporting Global Bees

make a terrible smelly mess. The best, albeit brutal way to deal with them is a couple of rodent blocks under each hive base.

In your spare time, make any new gear that you may need in spring, Making box frames (if you don’t use plastic). Used plastic frames can be water blasted or scraped and then sterilised in a bleach solution, then recoated in wax to build foundation for the spring and give the bees a head start.

Queens are not available to buy over winter.

So you are relying on having a good queen from last season. However, if the queen does die the hive will dwindle and may well die out by spring.

Because the queen slows down laying over winter and sometimes stops laying completely, varroa infestation is reduced providing varroa treatment has been carried out in autumn. If you have not treated, it is likely your hive could die out through an overload of mites. Strips can still be placed in hives in an emergency.

You may have noticed that the hives no longer have drones, or only a few. This part of the natural process as drones do not contribute to the hives’ survival but consume food and space. As the weather warms up towards spring, the queen will start laying drone eggs again in anticipation of the new season.

Winter is a time for a shift of focus away from the bee and towards equipment and preparation for the coming of spring.

Your Community Club

This month at the RSA we are getting excited about the British & Irish Lions Tour of New Zealand.

We will be playing all games LIVE on our HUGE screen – be sure to pop in and check it out, there will be promotion surrounding the games with “pick the score” sweepstakes running where winner takes all!

Also enjoy free ½ time nibbles for the All Blacks tests.

Our monthly movie for June is “Whisky Galore” showing Tuesday 13th June at 10.15am and replayed Sunday 18th June at 7pm.

There is a cost of $6 per person and morning tea is available for $2 at the morning session. All welcome.

Live music for June: Saturday 3rd June – Buddy Holly/ Tina Turner Tribute Show tickets $20 and selling fast.

Friday 9th June – Carylann & the Gypsies from 6.30pm Friday 16th June – Greg Christensen from 6.30pm Poppies Restaurant has added a new winter warmer menu on Friday & Saturday evenings. Have you tried Dave’s delicious Roast Dinner on a Sunday evening? Just $10, available from 4pm-7pm or while stocks last, bookings please on 364 7788.

Don’t forget Poppies can cater your function, give Dave or Liz a call.

Our sporting adjuncts are keeping busy as usual, do you fancy a game of snooker? They meet Thursday evening and Sunday afternoon, or maybe Darts? They meet Thursday evening, we also have an 8- Ball adjunct if you’re keen on a bit of Pool? They meet on Tuesday evening.

New players always welcome!

Do you like a punt? Visit our little TAB area where you can place your bets on our self service terminal. Or have a go on one of our 18 gaming machines You don’t have to be a member to have a tinkle on them.

Become a member: Subscriptions are very reasonable: $40 under 65 yrs $35 over 65 years, $60 for a couple under 65 years, $50 a couple over 65 yrs AGM - Sunday 11th June 10am entry by Membership card only Nominations close Sunday 4th June Voting (if necessary) will commence Tuesday 6th June - Friday 9th June 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-1pm and Sunday 9am-10am.

St John Horowhenua

Area Committee news for all Chairperson’s message Welcome to the St John Horowhenua Area Committee’s first monthly report on St John services, projects and other activities, locally.

Area committees are the link between communities and St John. They are made up of local people who volunteer their time and skills so that St John services can evolve and expand to better-serve their communities.

Together with St John’s regional and national support teams, area committees work to ensure that local services meet local needs.

Our area incorporates Horowhenua and Otaki. I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank the committee members and all our other St John volunteers for their time, efforts and dedication to help develop our services, projects and activities. A little by all adds up to a sizable contribution to our vision for our area and our cause.

I’d also like to express our huge appreciation to everyone who supported the recent St John Heart of Gold Annual Appeal, our stall at the Foxton Easter Sunday Fair, and to the participants and sponsors of our recent golf tornament fundraisers in Otaki and Foxton.

Thank you!

We hope you find these monthly reports interesting and that you gain a broader understanding of St John and hopefully even be inspired to join us.

Noel Beavers - St John Horowhenua chairperson

St John in our community You will likely know St John’s visible activities; such as the ambulance, event medical services, first aid training/kits, and medical alarms.

However, less visible are the charity organisation’s community programmes. In Horowhenua/Otaki, these include: St John Health Shuttles A community service that transports people to-and-from essential medical and health-related appointments. There is no charge for shuttle transport, however donations are welcome to help cover costs.

St John Caring Caller A free friendship service that offers regular telephone contact from a trained volunteer to people who are housebound or feel lonely. It is not a helpline, but a friendly phone call that both client and caller can enjoy.

St John Youth Programmes designed for young people aged between six and 18 that focus on teaching first aid, health care, leadership and life skills - along with opportunities to experience new things and have fun!

St John in Schools St John educators visit pre-school, primary and intermediate schools to provide learning experiences for children and give them first aid skills and confidence to take action in response to an emergency situation.

St John Opportunity Shops Our shops offer quality second-hand goods at affordable prices. Proceeds help support ambulance and community services. Our shops can be found at 39 Oxford Street, Levin, and at 4 Arthur Street, Otaki.

For more info about anything above, or how you can support St John, visit our website or contact us (see details below).

For Club info call 364 6221 or email otakirsa@xtra.co.nz

www.stjohn.org.nz 0800 ST JOHN (0800 785 646)

Page:16

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Ōtaki College News May 2017

www.otakicollege.school.nz

From the principal It is normally my position to use this part of the newsletter to report on what has been happening in the College, however, I think it is important to start raising awareness around an issue that is starting to cause myself and other local principals real concern.

In recent times we have seen an increase in the College roll and this is due in part to the increasing connectedness that Ōtaki has with the advent of stage one of the expressway. We are now witnessing a resurgence in the property market in Ōtaki and it is reported that a number of people purchasing homes will use these as rental properties. While an increase in the pool of rental properties could be seen as a positive, on the down side is the increase in rents being charged to tenants. These rental increases, coupled with the fact that there has only just been announced a small rise in the accommodation supplement for low income earners or beneficiaries (the first since 2011), are starting to have a real impact on low income families and whanau.

I am increasingly being made aware of families/whanau that are struggling to pay the rents that are now being demanded of them. This is impacting on whanau/ families emotionally as well as financially.

Decisions are having to be made around moving north to seek cheaper rents in places like Levin and this displacement is only just commencing. One has to ask what will happen once the PP2O section is completed?

I would suggest we need to start thinking now around strategies that will stop displacement of families/whanau like that experienced around New Zealand when expressways open up communities. What

role should our local MP, Council and landlords play in stopping people being forced out of the community they are connected to and pushed north.

I am pleased that, in response to an email that was sent to our Mayor and Local MP, that they are keen to address this matter.

Our Mayor Gurunathan published a very good article in the latest Kāpiti News and Penny Gaylor is also raising the issue at a Regional Council level. Nathan Guy is keen to meet with local principals, but, sadly and understandably, this is on hold due to the sad passing of his father recently. Our sincere condolences to Nathan and his family.

I am looking forward to progressing opportunities to discuss possible solutions to mitigate the negative effects being encountered by sectors of our communities but would also urge people to pick up the challenge and make their voices heard.

Let’s get in behind initiatives that will allow local Iwi to pick up the housing that will be condemned to make way for the expressway to create housing areas.

Let’s support local government to lobby for central government to fund local housing schemes that may consider low deposit or rent to buy options. If we sit back and hope that we will not be effected like other communities all around the country because of expressway developments we are delusional. Now is the time to act and make our voices heard – do not let our lower income families/whanau become displaced and disadvantaged because of the expressway. Let’s enjoy the benefits but not at the expense of others.

Roxy 5 Short Film Competition Ōtaki College students have again had success at the Roxy 5 Short Film Competition held in Miramar last night. This year though they had to settle for runners-up with their short film Ranginui and Papatuanuku. They were happy to concede to Wellington High School's short film; Shelter. This film was carefully crafted and beautifully told. The judges thought it was very close and they had a very difficult time selecting the top place getters. The judges included Jamie Selkirk, the Academy Award winning editor of the Lord of the Rings, and J. R. R. Tolkein's great grandson Royd Tolkein who is currently visiting New Zealand.

The Roxy 5 Short Film Competition, presented by Capital E and Miramar Creative Ltd, is an annual competition for school students in years 7 - 13. This year 25 secondary schools from across the Wellington region submitted short films for the competition. From these, ten finalists were selected, with the winners being announced at a glamorous event held at the Roxy Cinema in Wellington. Films are judged according to their creative story telling potential. With this award Ōtaki College has won the opportunity to go on a hands-on journey to re-make their film under the guidance of Weta, Park Road Post and other industry specialists.

Roxy competition runners-up: Shavaughn Sharrem, Maia Standen, Heremaia Cooper, Robbie Frey, Peter Ruru, James Mackie-Richie (back) Renee Winton (front) Martina Van Der Sman, Michael Cooper, Andy Tam

Are you eligible for some help paying your rates?

We know paying rates is tough for some members of our community. If you’re on a low income you might be eligible for some help with your property or water rates. Applications for the 2016/2017 funding round close on 30 June 2017, so now’s a good time to get your application in.

Property rates rebates

Water rates remissions for large, low-income families

If you’re a low-income home owner you might be eligible for a Department of Internal Affairs rates rebate subsidy of up to $610.

Each year we offer a water rates remission to provide support to larger families on low incomes who have high water costs.

Do you:

Do you:

• pay residential rates and were you living in your property on 1 July 2016

• pay water rates as a property owner or tenant and,

• have a total gross household income for the tax year 31 March 2016 less than $35,000 a year (if you earn up to $42,000 you might qualify for a partial rebate if you have dependants, or if your property’s rates are high).

• have more than three dependents (18 years or younger) living at your property

You might be eligible – here’s what you need to do: • Pick up an application form from your local Council Service Centre, or ask us to post one out to you.

• Complete the form and bring it into a Council Service Centre to be processed.

You’ll also need to bring proof of your income (before tax) for the tax year ended 31 March 2016 unless you’re on Government Superannuation only.

The best time to drop in with your forms is Monday-Friday between 8am–5pm at Rimu Road, or between 9am–5pm at the Ōtaki and Waikanae Service Centres.

• receive a Working for Families Tax Credit • have total water charges from 1 July 2016 to 30 April 2017 of more than $311.

You might be eligible – here’s what you need to do: • Pick up an application form from your local Council Service Centre, or ask us to post one out to you.

• Complete the form and bring it into a Council Service Centre to be processed.

You’ll also need to bring a copy of your Working for Families Tax Credit Summary for the tax year that ended 31 March 2017.

Applications for rates rebates and water remissions close 30 June 2017. If you’re not sure if you’re eligible, give us a call on 0800 486 486 or email kapiti.council@kapiticoast.govt.nz

Page:17

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Thursday 8 June

KĀPITI COAST DISTRICT COUNCIL MEETINGS IN JUNE

Public Forum

9.25am -9.55 am 10.00 am

Council Chambers Ground Floor, 175 Rimu Road, Paraparaumu Thursday 8 June Strategy & Policy Council Chambers Ground Floor, Committee 175 Rimu Road, Paraparaumu Tuesday 13 June Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti 10.00 am Council Chambers Ground Floor, 175 Rimu Road, Paraparaumu Tuesday 13 June Waikanae Community 7.30 pm Waikanae Community Centre, Board Utauta Street, Waikanae Thursday 15 June Public Forum 9.25 am Council Chambers Ground Floor, -9.55 am 175 Rimu Road, Paraparaumu Thursday 15 June Council (Additional) 10.00 am Council Chambers Ground Floor, Meeting 175 Rimu Road, Paraparaumu Tuesday 20 June P a r a p a r a u m u - R a u m a t i 7.00 pm Kapiti Community Centre, Community Board 15 Ngahina Street, Paraparaumu Thursday 22 June Campe Estate 10.00 am Mayor’s Office, 175 Rimu Road, Subcommittee Paraparaumu Thursday 29 June Public Forum 9.25 am Council Chambers Ground Floor, -9.55 am 175 Rimu Road, Paraparaumu Thursday 29 June Council Meeting 10.00 am Council Chambers Ground Floor, 175 Rimu Road, Paraparaumu

Attendance at Meetings (1)Cancellation - Meetings are sometimes cancelled for a variety of reasons.

To confirm whether a meeting is on, please ring the Democracy Services Manager on (04) 296 4700 or toll free on 0800 486 486.

(2)Venue – Please note that all meetings will be held in the Council Chambers, Civic Administration Building, 175 Rimu Road, Paraparaumu, unless otherwise specified.

(3)Public Forum – a 30-minute session will be held before every Council and major committee meeting (9.25 am – 9.55 am) in which you can speak on any topic.

Bookings are essential. Please book ahead with the Democracy Services Advisor – online booking form can be found on website.

(4)Public Speaking Time – Under Council’s Standing Orders (Appendix I) a period will be provided after the start of each meeting for Public Speaking Time to allow for oral submissions relating to agenda items, and at the end of meeting for other items not on the agenda.

If you wish to address the Council or its Committees during Public Speaking Time please book ahead with the Democracy Services Advisor and you will be given an approximate timeslot. People who book ahead for Public Speaking will be given precedence over those who do not.

5)Live-streaming: Council and Standing Committee meetings are live-streamed.

(6)Agendas are available two days before the meeting at: • Our website www.kapiticoast.govt.nz; • Council’s Libraries and Service Centres.

Pat Dougherty Chief Executive

PB 60601 Paraparaumu | Ph 04 296 4700 | Fx 04 296 4830 | www.kapiticoast.govt.nz

Expressions of Interest for Ōtaki Economic Development Group Are you passionate about Ōtaki and want to see it reach its full potential?

Kāpiti Coast District Council and the Ōtaki Community Board are seeking independent committee members to form a Reference Group for Ōtaki and Te Horo focussed on economic aspirations for the area. Ōtaki is poised for growth and economic success with improved connections to local and international markets following the completion of the Peka Peka to Ōtaki Expressway in 2020. Funding has been secured to help maximise the economic benefits from the Expressway.

The Ōtaki economy grew by 3.5% in 2016, and productivity increased by 2.7%.

To help ensure this growth trend continues, we are inviting motivated and opportunityfocussed local business owners and community members to create the Reference Group. The aim of the group will be to achieve the best outcomes for business and the community from the potential benefits the expressway can bring when it opens in two years’ time. The role is voluntary but the reward is playing a part in making Otaki just that much more special!

If you think you’ve got what it takes to help the Ōtaki reach its full economic potential we’d love to hear from you.

Please register your interest by sending your CV and a covering letter to Samara Shaw, Executive Secretary to Group Manager Strategy and Planning by Friday 30 June. Tel: 04 296 4892, email: samara.shaw@kapiticoast.govt.nz

04 293 6844 17 - 21 Parata Street info@waikanaefuneralhome.co.nz

PO Box 300 Waikanae 5250 www.kapitifunerals.co.nz

HAVE YOU THOUGHT OF RECORDING YOUR FUNERAL WISHES OR EVEN PRE-PAYING YOUR FUNERAL EXPENCES THINK OF IT AS AN EXTENSION TO YOUR WILL

PB 60601 Paraparaumu | Ph 04 296 4700 | Fx 04 296 4830 | www.kapiticoast.govt.nz

- CALL US TODAY TO DISCUSS -

Page:18

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Media Muse

A light-hearted look at the media, by Manakau’s gnarled commentator Tom Frewen

Give us this day our daily Trump and lead us not into information but deliver us from boredom, for ever and ever, amen.

Within months of being elected the 45th president of the United States, Donald John Trump has joined the famous elite known only by surname. In the age of the selfie and the tweet, Trump has become an addiction for millions who wake up wondering what he’s going to do and say next, then spend the rest of the day on their phone checking their Twitter feed.

One of the blessings of Trump is a revived interest in the Dunning-Kruger effect.

Identified in 1999 by American psychologists David Dunning and Justin Kruger, the Dunning-Kruger effect is when stupid people are too stupid to realise how stupid they actually are. In other words, they suffer a cognitive bias of illusory superiority.

We all know people who suffer from it.

Trump, obviously, although he’s far from alone in his Dunning-Kruger affliction. It’s epidemic in the media where stupid is the new normal.

On television, stupidity is second only to good looks for career advancement in the news department. It’s got so bad that we would switch it off if it was not so hard to

break the habit of watching something over dinner. Instead we’ve gone warm turkey and moved the clothes drier into the lounge and watch that instead.

I got the idea during The Project, the programme after the news on TV3 in the 7pm slot that used to be called current affairs.

I was starting to feel nauseous, blaming Jesse Mulligan’s smile or possibly a dodgy prawn, when I noticed that the pictures were wildly out of sync with the words, making it impossible to follow the plot, or “narrative” as it is called in the videography biz. The jump-cut editing made watching television like driving down a poplar -lined country road through flashes of sunlight in the late afternoon. Recalling that rapidly strobing lights can cause epileptic fits I grabbed the remote and hit pause.

I then found that stuffing some underwear and a few socks into the drier and watching them revolving round to be much less nauseating and just as informative if not more so. Then I spiced up the “narrative” a bit by adding red socks and lacy underwear, representing rugby players and their “off-field antics”. Inappropriate touching between socks and knickers represented a range of antics and romps with ample supplies of white powder on hand in the laundry.

Ōtaki Curtain Bank delivers PROOF TIME 22/07/2014 2:39:50 p.m.

– second timeLASTaround RUN: 08/20/14

VEY-BOWLER FUNERAL SE

A second gift from Trump is the concept of “fake news”. Before Trump there was just news, ranging from “old” to “breaking”.

The innovation of “fake” as a third category of news has raised the question: what is news, actually? Do we really need it? So what if it’s fake? Should we be bothered?

Has fake news been there all along, like dark matter? Is fake news itself fake news?

Thankfully, Facebook has come to the rescue with a guide to fake news. “Be sceptical of headlines” is the first of 10 top tips for would-be fake news spotters.

“If shocking claims in the headline sound unbelievable, they probably are.”

UN-BE-LIEVABLE! is what Victor Meldrew (Richard Wilson) says about the misfortunes that frequently befall him in the television series One Foot in The Grave.

Just because something is unbelievable doesn’t mean it’s wrong. Headlines are seldom accurate. Their purpose is to catch the reader’s eye. They signpost the route a reader might take around a newspaper page, pointing to items of possible interest. They are the main difference between reading a newspaper and a tablet or phone on which the news is all headlines, click bait jostling for your attention like hungry chooks at feeding time.

It’s your attention that is in demand. News media harvest the attention that you give to their newspapers, radio and television. With the smart phone, though, you pay attention to the phone itself. News media owners and executives believe people are now getting their news from their phones. Some do, although my sly, over-the-shoulder observations as a daily train commuter indicate that the vast majority are doing a whole lot of other stuff with their phones.

Partly that is because the news is nowhere near as exciting or compelling as journalists think it is and claim it to be. Mainly, though, mobile phones demand to be used, to be held, worried over and shouted into, fondled and prodded and clicked and checked for new messages and replies to old ones . . . dear God, why don’t they answer? Have they fallen over? Should I call 111? Lucky I happen to have a phone with me . . .

And now with video on your phone you can see news being made or, as they say, unfolding live. “Watch: Fiery space object spotted” the New Zealand Herald reported on May 19. “A fiery space object in the sky over Gisborne last night disrupts rugby practice.” Only in New Zealand.

9678458AH

SIZE:for Ōtaki 8X3 how different "2017 was again a great opportunity organizations can residents to be part of the Wellington Sustainsuccessfully work ability Trust's Curtain Bank", reports Energise together to achieve Ōtaki, partner in the action. Over 55 applicaa benefit for the tion forms were returned with requests for 192 community. curtains, a 24% increase over 2016. Curtains are provided for living rooms, and bedrooms for Generous Donafamilies with children or the elderly. tions of curtains and curtain material It shows there is a huge need in the community by Ōtaki residents for this service, especially among families who helps to provide live in rented accommodation, many of them some of the stock without insulation. The fitted and lined curtains, the Sustainability made from donated curtain material, are an important step to keep rooms warmer, creating a Trust uses to make the new fitted healthier living environment while, importantly, curtains for Ōtaki. A joint venture between keeping power bills down.

They are in the pro- Energise Ōtaki, KCDC, CAB Leigh Ramsey, Chair of Energise Ōtaki says cur- cess of being made and Wellington Sustainability Trust resulted in over 55 Ōtaki tains are the easiest and most affordable way of now and will be families having warmer houses reducing heat loss from houses which means the delivered to Ōtaki householder's power consumption can go down, around the middle or basically getting better bang for their energy of June, when people can collect them from the buck spent, and with the free Curtain Bank now Citizens Advice Bureau. Donations of curtains in operation for two years we are starting to see are always acceptable at the Ōtaki CleanTech and hear of real positive changes coming from Centre in Titoki Street (but please first call 027the community who have used the Bank.

444 3015 to check someone is there to receive them).

The Curtain Bank operates as partnership between Energise Ōtaki, KCDC and assistance from the Citizens Advice Bureau Ōtaki, proving

This is for all you Men and Women who are unable to reach or can’t see your feet.

Treat Yourself to a PEDICURE in YOUR OWN HOME We offer this HOME service for only $40.

You will have your feet pampered with a foot spa soak, nails cut, and filed, cuticles cared for and a soothing foot massage There is also the option of including a MANICURE for only $15.

If you would prefer to visit Angela’s Studio in Waikanae a PEDICURE will cost $30.

PHONE ANGELA 04 293-5611

Health Camp Staff party 1982

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Creating opportuni

ties for a p ersonal farewell.

Don't leave the stress and worry to your family members.

Request a free funeral kit and plan your farewell today.

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Complimentary “My Life, My Funeral” kits.

Simply call and we will happily send one out to you.

SHANNON

Phone: 06 368 2954 www.harveybowler.co.nz

Can you identify these two women in blue on the right-hand side of the picture?

Di Buchan, who is completing the history of the Ōtaki Health Camp, Sun, Sea and Sustenance, scheduled for publication in September would love to hear from you.

Call Di on 364 0180 if you can help.

Page:19

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Ōtaki Update

Waitohu Valley Road being widened

2 June 2017

Work to widen Waitohu Valley Road to address safety concerns raised by residents through the 2016/17 Annual Plan process got

Ōtaki Pool progressing Stepping UP coming to Ōtaki Stepping UP computer and internet training is coming to Ōtaki Library.

Free computer classes for beginners will be offered on Wednesday mornings, starting 7 June.

It’s been a few weeks since the last update but rest assured things are still progressing!

Over the last few weeks the following work has taken place: • Additional nibs and footing dug out and poured, with over 250 cubes of concrete poured already (around 400 cubes total to be poured on the whole project) • Foundations reshaped and squared • Ramp excavation completed • Splash pad excavation under way

• Steel beams strengthened • Pipework for the splash pad and toddler pool separation start The pool’s rebuild is one of four key initiatives selected by the Council and the community for development as part of FutureKāpiti – Long Term Plan 2015-35.

Watch this space for further updates, or visit our website or Facebook page to find out more.

underway last week.

The work to widen the road will be carried out in stages and is expected to be complete by late August.

There will be some disruption while contractors work to widen the road but this will be kept to a minimum and traffic management will be in place at all times.

Learn about digital photos, email, word processing, Facebook, TradeMe and more.

Find out more at kapiticoast.govt. nz/steppingup or phone 04 296 4700 to register.

Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti, in partnership with Kāpiti Coast District Libraries and Pools, is actively involved in the promotion and revitalisation of Matariki in the community.

This year, there will again be a range of local events provided by community groups, kura (schools) and the Council for you and your family to enjoy.

A number of events are planned for Ōtaki across June and July, including talks and presentations

at Ōtaki Library, sustainability workshops and a whānaufriendly street party on Ōtaki’s Main Street.

You can find out more by visiting kapiticoast.govt.nz/matariki.

A brochure including a full schedule of events will be available for download early this month.

kapiticoast.govt.nz

Page:20

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Ōtaki’s History From the Otaki Mail, Wednesday May 4 1927

OBITUARY MR MORGAN CARKEEK, AGED 81 The death occurred at an early hour this morning, at the residence of his daughter (Mrs Webster), of Mr Morgan Carkeek, one of the best-known residents on the coast. The late Mr Carkeek was born in Nelson in 1846, and was educated at the College there, but many years ago came north, taking up residence in Ōtaki nearly 60 years ago. As a surveyor Mr Carkeek was very well known, and several towns in the Wellington province and elsewhere were surveyed by him. For many years he acted as a Justice of the Peace, and was also on various local bodies, and always rendered great service. He was a great bushman, and was one of the first to cross the Tararuas. Some time ago Mr Carkeek went into retirement at Mangaone Valley, later became bedridden. Two days ago he became very ill, and passed away as stated. Mesdames Frank Higgott and A D Webster are daughters of the deceased, and will have the sympathy of a large circle of friends.

ŌTAKI MUSEUM The current exhibition is The First World War at Sea which commemorates the sinking of the ship Otaki II a hundred years ago. The exhibition features colourful paintings of ships by our local artist Wallace Trickett, and also tells the story of the Merchant Marine service. The museum opened on Anzac Day immediately after the Dawn Parade, and over 50 people took advantage of this special opportunity. The Ōtaki Museum is at 49 Main Street, and is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am – 2 pm.

Our next meeting will be on Tuesday 6 June 2017

‘The archaelogy of the PP2Ō Expressway’ Speaker: Emily Cunliffe, Archaeologist 7.30 pm in the Rotary Lounge Aotaki Street, Otaki www.otakihistoricalsociety.org.nz

ŌTAKI HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Preserving our heritage for 40 years

The next meeting will be on Tuesday 6 June at 7.30 pm in Rotary Hall, Aotaki Street. The speaker will be archaeologist Emily Cunliffe, on “The Archaeology of the PP2Ō Expressway”. This will interest a wide range of people; come and find out what has been discovered in ‘the ground beneath’.

Te Pou Whakawhirinaki o Ōtaki

Want to make a difference to peoples’ lives? Ōtaki CAB is on the lookout for new volunteers If you are keen in helping people in your community and you are: • able to listen in a non-judgmental manner • comfortable in using a computer • able to commit three hours a day each week Then you are a potential CAB volunteer!

Volunteer your skills and experience - connect with your community and provide a human touch!

Being a CAB Volunteer is rewarding and gratifying. You will be rewarded with varied interesting roles. You will acquire new skills and knowledge and use these to help others.

This survey party on the Otaki River was led by Morgan Carkeek, though we are not sure which of these men was Morgan.

In August, the Ōtaki Historical Society will celebrate their 40th anniversary.

The Museum will be open 7 days a week from 10am to 2pm, and will feature displays

Training and ongoing support are provided.

For more information call us on 06 364 8663/8664 or email us at otaki@cab.org.nz or drop in at the bureau between 9am to 3pm Monday-Friday at 65a Main St, Otaki Village next to the Memorial Hall.

that tell of the Society's activities over the years. More information next month....!

Volunteering with Citizens Advice Bureau (Ōtaki) Volunteers are the life-blood of the CAB and volunteerism is a valued principle under which we work.

services available, or through an inability to express their needs effectively.

Our volunteers are from different ethnicities with a range of career experience, qualifications and involvement in other community and voluntary work.

• exert a responsible influence on the development of social policies and services, both locally and nationally.

Being a CAB Volunteer is rewarding and gratifying. You will be rewarded with varied interesting roles. You will acquire new skills and knowledge and use these to help others.

Our service is provided by more than 2,600 trained volunteers, in more than 80 locations around New Zealand.

Our volunteers are supported by a comprehensive database and regular learning and development training.

The greatest contribution you can make is the giving of your time to empower people to make a difference in their own lives.

Volunteer your skills and experience - connect with your community and provide a human touch!

The CAB is all about our clients – making sure that individuals do not suffer through ignorance of their rights and responsibilities and that their local and national communities are responsibly developed.

The aims of Citizens Advice Bureau New Zealand are to: • ensure that individuals do not suffer through ignorance of their rights and responsibilities, or of the

Training and ongoing support are provided.

(See our separate ad above) For more information give us a call or email us at otaki@cab.org.nz or drop in at the bureau between 9am to 3pm Monday-Friday at 65a Main St, Otaki Village next to the Memorial Hall.

Te Pou Whakawhirinaki o Ōtaki Our advice is free and confidential. We have the information to help you with your problems, or can point you in the right direction..

Call / email or see us Monday to Friday 9.00 am - 3.00 pm 65a Main Street, Ōtaki Village (next to the swing park by the Memorial Hall) Tel 06 364 8664 or 0800 367 222 Email otaki@cab.org.nz www.cab.org.nz • Legal & Employment Issues • Benefit Entitlements • Housing & tenancy issues • Neighborhood & other issues

• Health,Human Rights • Personal Problems • Transport issues • Consumer Rights

Free 20-minute legal appointment - 1 solicitor JP available by arrangement Foodbank donations – drop In Rooms available for hire at reasonable rates

Page:21

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Kia ora from the Ōtaki Public Library – Te Wharepukapuka o Ōtaki

No Baggage: A Minimalist Tale of Love and Wandering

The Other Side of Impossible

Mother Land

Pachinko

by Susannah Meadows

by Paul Theroux

by Min Jin Lee

You’re faced with a difficult health condition.

You have exhausted medicine’s answers.

What do you do? Susannah Meadows tells the real-life stories of seven families who persisted when traditional medicine alone wasn’t enough. Their adventures take us to the outer frontiers of medical science and cutting-edge complementary therapies, as Meadows explores research into the mind’s potential to heal the body, the possible role food may play in reversing disease, the power of agency, perseverance, and hope—and more. Meadows chronicles her own story, and takes you into the lives of other remarkable people, exploring their heartbreaks and triumphs.

To those in her Cape Cod town, Mother is an exemplar of piety, frugality, and hard work. To her husband and seven children, she is the selfish, petty tyrant of Mother Land. She excels at playing her offspring against each other. Her favourite, Angela, died in childbirth; only Angela really understands her, she tells the others. The others include the officious lawyer, Fred; the uproarious professor, Floyd; a pair of inseparable sisters whose devotion to Mother has consumed their lives; and JP, the narrator, a successful writer whose work she disparages. As she lives well past the age of 100, her brood struggles with and among themselves to shed her vice-like hold on them.

In a small fishing village on the banks of the East Sea, a club-footed, cleft-lipped man marries a fifteen-year-old girl. The couple have one child, their beloved daughter Sunja. When Sunja falls pregnant by a married yakuza, the family face ruin. But then Isak, a Christian minister, offers her a chance of salvation: a new life in Japan as his wife. Following a man she barely knows to a hostile country in which she has no friends, no home, and whose language she cannot speak, Sunja's salvation is just the beginning of her story.

Through eight decades and four generations, Pachinko is an epic tale of family, identity, love, death and survival.

by Clara Bensen One dress, three weeks, eight countries—zero baggage. Newly recovered from a quarter-life meltdown, Clara Bensen decided to test her comeback by signing up for an online dating account.

She never expected to meet Jeff, a wildly energetic university professor with a reputation for bucking convention. They barely know each other's last names when they agree to set out on a risky travel experiment spanning eight countries and three weeks. The catch?

No hotel reservations, no plans, and best of all, no baggage. Clara's story will resonate with adventurers and homebodies alike

The Dark side of Backsides Anal glands are two small semi-fluid filled sacs, located under the skin on either side of the anus, in dogs and cats. They are designed to empty their very smelly fluid onto the animal’s bowel motions. Most animals never have an issue with their anal glands, and you may not even know they exist. However, they can develop problems, ranging from irritating, to very serious.

The classic signs of anal gland problems in pets is “scooting”, where they drag their bottom along the ground. This is commonly mistaken as a sign of worms - although tapeworm infestation can occasionally cause scooting, it is far more likely to be anal gland irritation. Your pet may also chase, lick or bite at their backside or top of the tail. They may have trouble going to the toilet, or be in pain when trying. Sometimes they may have a swelling around

their anus which could be very firm, or soft and inflamed, and find sitting painful.

Diet, being overweight, skin issues or allergies, and infection, as well as trauma or even poor anatomy can all be a cause of anal gland problems.

Impaction is the most common problem associated with anal glands. This occurs when the fluid builds up in the glands and thickens, and isn’t expressed with toileting, resulting in enlargement and irritation of the glands.

Anal gland infections cause irritation and inflammation and can develop into an anal gland abscess. Pus can build up within the anal gland until it eventually ruptures.

Anal gland tumors do occur, and although rare, are usually an invasive cancer growth called an adenocarcino-

ma, with a poor prognosis.

If you notice your pet bothered by their backside, it’s important to get them to their vet to determine the reason. Treatments can range from treating the underlying cause, providing supplements, antibiotics or pain-relief, manually expressing the anal glands, flushing the glands, and rarely, surgical removal.

Ōtaki Vets

269 Mill Road 364 6941 364 7089

contact@otakivets.co.nz Come and meet our friendly team

Page:22

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Handy folk to know

Health

Womens Health 364 6367 AA 0800 229 6757 Arthritis 364 6883 Ambulance Shuttle 368 6369 Cancer Support 06 367 8065 Stroke 364 5213 Plunket 364 7261

Community

Citizens Advice 364 8664 Budgeting 364 6579 Foodbank 364 0051 Menzshed 364 8303 Community Club 364 8754 Timebank 362 6313 Birthright 364 5558 Cobwebs 021 160 2710 Community Patrol 027 230 8836 Amicus (Probus) 364 6464 Pottery 364 8053 Mainly Music 364 7099 Genealogy 364 7263 Bridge 364 7771 Museum 364 6886 Historical 364 6543 Let’s Sing 364 8731 Ōtaki Players 364 6491 RSA 364 6221 Rotary 364 0147 Lions 364 8871

Environment

FOTOR 364 8918 Transition Towns 364 5573 Waitohu Stream Care 364 0641

Older People Age Concern

Kids

Scouting Toy Library

0800 243 266 364 8949 364 3411

This column is built from information supplied by the Ōtaki Women’s Health group, from their September 2015 Community Services Directory.

If you have any updates or corrections, please advise us

this column has been revised: in future only paid advertisers and community groups will feature

Auto

All Things Automotive Central Auto Services Colling & Gray Montgomery M. Bodies SRS Auto Engineering Paul Branch

364 8158 368 2037 364 7495 364 5681 364 3322 364 6111

Birthright Op Shop

23 Matene Street, Otaki Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm Saturday 10am – 1pm

Good/Used clothing for sale

022 315 7018

Adult shoes $3 - $5 Baby clothing $1 Children’s clothing $2 Lots of bric-a-brac from $1 Assortment of antiques for sale Adult clothing $4

Bevan Concrete 0800 427522 Rasmac Contractors 0274 443 041 Craig Howell 027 448 0447

We are always looking for volunteers to help in our shop – please see the Shop Manager for an application form.

Computers TechMan

Concrete Work

Estate Agents First National Harcourts Professionals Tall Poppies

Funeral Directors

368 2954 368 8108 04 298 5168 04 293 6844

Insurance Inpro

100&1 364 7074 Talisman 364 5893 Te Horo Garden Centre 364 2142 Watsons Garden Centre 364 8758

Kapiti Coast District Council

General Inquiries 364 9301 Toll Free 0800 486 486 Ōtaki Library 364 9317 Ōtaki Swimming Pool 364 5542

Lawyer

Susie Mills Law

364 7190

Ōtaki Locksmith

021 073 5955

Mower & Engineering

About Plumbing 364 5586 Henderson Plumbing 364 5252 Ryan Plumbing &Gas 027 243 6451 Ocean View Enliven

Roofer

364 7399 0508 365483

Ryan Roofing

027 243 6451

Ōtaki Shuttles

364 6001

Ōtaki Animal Health Ōtaki Vet Centre

364 7089 364 6941

Window & Door Repairs

364 8886

Taxi

Vets

Windows

CENTRAL AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

027 448 0447 * After hours: 06 364 6064

Window & Door Repairs

I fix all Doors, Windows & Conservatories

MAIN ROAD SOUTH, LEVIN

SAVE $$$$

K.S. McFadyen & I.J. Buckley Ltd

FULL DIESEL REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE

All C.O.F. Work Transport & General Engineering Tel: 06/368 2037 or 06/368 1591 (24hrs)

Locks * Rollers Handles * Stays Glass * Leaks Draughts * Seals

Call Mike Watson Free 0800 620 720 or Otaki 364 8886 Find me at: www.windowseal.co.nz Or like at: facebook.com/windowseal

364 5411

Plumbing

Rest Homes

For all Kerbing, Paving, Floors, Drives Paths and Concrete Work FREE QUOTES Phone Craig Howell

364 6123

Nurseries

Mowers

• Earthmoving / Aggregate • Drainage Site Works / Section Clearing • Drive Ways Excavation / Tarseal / Hot Mix • Top Soil / Farm Roads

364 8350 364 5284 364 7790 0274 792 772

Harvey Bowler I.C. Mark Ltd Kapiti Coast Funeral Waikanae Funeral

Locksmith

(or as priced)

Phone: 0274 443 041 or 0274 401 738

YouBeauty By appointment only Fantastic facials, brow shaping Electrolysis and facial waxing 0274 070 403

OTAKI POLICE FOUND PROPERTY LIST ITEM DESCRIPTION 2 x necklaces Cloth Purse containing cash Carry bag containing headband and mat Cellphone Backpack Toy train and train tracks bmx bike

WHERE FOUND Outside Otaki Primary School Kite Festival, Otaki Beach Coinsave shop

DATE 01/02/17 26/03/17 07/04/17

Outside Countdown Outside Kiss & Bake Up, Main Highway Te Waka Road Mill Road

17/04/17 29/04/17 15/05/17 24/05/17

Page:23

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017

Otaki Shuttle Service 06 364 6001

Seven Day a week service up until midnight Set Tarriff charges of $10 + $5 per passenger between Otaki beach & plateau • Further afield trips negotiable • Airport & bus connections EFTPOS available in vehicle

Make a booking online at www.otakishuttle.co.nz

Henderson Plumbing Otaki Churches welcome you & Bathrooms Acts Churches Anglican Rev Ian Campbell The HUB Tel: 364 6911 Otaki: 157 Tasman Rd, Otaki 10.15 am (Family service) Te Horo: 10.15 am Big Wednesday

Tel: 364 7099 All Saints. Te Rauparaha St Kapiti Coast - Levin 8 am and 10.30 am • plumbing St Margarets, School Rd • roofs & spouting 9 am • new homes Manakau: St Andrews Baptist • drainage 1st Sunday Cafe Church, 9.30am Tel: 364 8540 • maintenence 2nd & 4th Sundays. Eucharist 9.00am Cnr Te Manuao Road/SH1 • free advice and quotes 10.00 am service Rangiatea Church Services Otaki: 37 Te Rauparaha St All Plumbing Services Presbyterian Sunday Eucharist: 9 am Church Viewing Hours: (school term) Rev. Peter L. Jackson Tel: 06 364 5252 Mon,Wed,Fri (10.00am - 1pm) Tel: 364 6346 Fax: 06 364 5254 or tel office: 364 6838 249 Mill Rd, Otaki Email: rangiatea.church@xtra.co.nz Cell: 027 448 5658 Worship: 11 am Cafe Church: Shannon: Turongo Church - Poutu Marae PO Box 217, Otaki Shannon/Foxton Highway Email: diane@hendersonplumbing.co.nz 2nd Sun 10.45 am 3rd Sunday 11.30am Community Church Levin: Ngatokowaru Marae Tel: 364 0012 Hokio Beach Road 17 Waerenga Road 4th Sunday 11am Sunday School: 9-10am Family Service: 10.30 am Catholic St Mary’s “Pukekaraka” RANCHSLIDER & WINDOW 4 Convent Road Otaki: Weekend Mass REPAIRS Sunday Mass11am, 5pm KEYS cut St. Stephens Kuku: LOCKS - repaired Sunday 8am Covering

ŌTAKI LOCKSMITH

Plumbing Gasfitting • Wetbacks • Residental • Commercial • Woodburners • Solar Hot Water Systems

(First Sunday of the month)

or new locks fitted

RANCHSLIDER - Wheels & locks -

Cobwebs Op-Shop

TRACKS REPAIRED WINDOW - catches & hinges security stays

Resident in Ōtaki with 25 yrs experience

Phone Alastair Riddle NOW 021 073 5955

Roofing • New and re-roofing • Longrun coloursteel • P.V.C & Coloursteel Spouting • Repairs and Maintenance • Flashing Fabrication • Sheetmetal Work 0272 436 451 06 362 6595 Manakau

Want to advertise here?

The Ōtaki Mail goes to every letterbox and every Rural Mail address in the greater Ōtaki area.

5,000 copies printed monthly.

Main Street Tuesday-Friday 10-4pm Saturday 10-1pm We need your support Cobwebs Trust AGM 7.30pm, Monday 26 June Ōtaki Presbyterian Church Hall All welcome!

Attacked by Fence Post?

• • • • • • • • • •

Get your message in front of your town

Spray Booth Chassis Machine Chassis Straightening Rust Repair Crash Repair Plastic Welding 24 hour Towing & Salvage All Insurance Work Farm Equipment Repaired Competitive Prices

Talk to us about your automotive, marine, cabinet colour and furniture paint work.

COLLING & GRAY

OTAKI – PANELBEATERS & SPRAY PAINTING 3 Arthur St, Otaki Phone 06 364 7495

Locally owned & operated funeral home.

John, Merryn, Andrew, Graham, Diane & Rodney

Automotive & Engineering NZHRA approved engineer Qualified Diesel Mechanic 38 years experience

We provide a 24 hour service, we do have standard office hours but sometimes you need us immediately.

Our four funeral directors are professionally qualified and live locally in this region, Graham is from Otaki.

We have purpose built facilities, our own chapel, lounges and a crematorium, located at the cemetery.

We will provide the funeral you want, we’re not here to tell you what to do, We’re here to help you with all details and make sure your loved one has the perfect send off. If it’s possible, we will try and provide it.

9-11

Barry Sutton

• WOFs and LUBES • Light Engineering & Welding • Classic Car Repairs

www.srsauto.co.nz

364 3322 34 Sutton Rd, Te Horo 027 556 9255

Page:24

Ōtaki Mail — June 2017 Do you rent a house in Ōtaki?

Is your energy bill through the roof?

Is your house still cold anyway?!!!

Want to pay less for your power bill and be warmer as well? If you have a community services card, your Landlord may be eligible for an EECA grant to insulate the house you are renting.

Interested??

Energise Ōtaki will help you with approaching your landlord about them taking up the grant.

Contact Lloyd on 364 6140

A sporting way of life REX DUCKETT 06 364 6123 0800 367 467

BY VIVIENNE BAILEY

Badminton is a way of life for Ōtaki’s Eugenie Gray.

Developing a love for the sport as a nine year old, “I was a National Junior Champion,” she has returned from the 2017 World Masters Games with three medals.

The World Masters’ Games philosophy is to promote friendship and understanding, along with competition, between mature sports people regardless of age, race, gender, religion, or sports status, and Eugenie says the sense of comradeship encourages confidence “This was my first time in an international Masters’ Games. The friendship and support was amazing.”

The Games are the world’s largest multi-sport event. Held every 4 years, they are the pinnacle sporting event for masters competitors, and support the Olympic ethic of ‘sport for all’. Their goal is to encourage participation in sport throughout life, and during the ten day event competition and camaraderie are equally celebrated.

The first Games were held in Toronto, Canada in 1985, and since then seven other cities including Sydney, Australia (2009) and Torino, Italy (2013) have hosted the event.

Tens of thousands of athletics participated in the ninth Auckland Games in April 2017, in 28 different sports.

Open to anyone over 35 years of age (minimum age is 25) who can compete for themselves (no country delegations), the Games are popular with retired professional athletics and former Olympic competitors.

Although Eugenie took a “family break” she has been playing competitively for the last twelve years, and is a member of the Wanganui representative team.

INSURANCE

mortgagelink Business Cover House & Contents Motor Vehicle Race Car Farm Package Health Life & Trauma Income Protection

Disclosure Statement available upon request

Eugenie is second from left

“I am a really competitive person but the team is all about friendship. They’re like family – some I have known for years.”

Eugenie played in the Masters’ A Grade Division, winning a Gold Medal in the mixed team event (60+), made up of three men and three women from Auckland, Wellington, Nelson and Wanganui. She also took a Silver Medal for the Ladies Doubles (60+) with partner, Maggie Lee, from Wellington North. She says the couple had a narrow loss in the final to fellow team mates. With partner, Kevin Ross, Wanganui, Eugenie won a further Silver Medal in the mixed doubles (60+).

“We lost on count back after we beat the Gold Medal winner, losing to Bronze Medal winners from Indonesia and Japan.”

More than 1200 competed in badminton events, “a good representation from Canada, Great Britain, Scotland, Japan, Germany and Indonesia in our age group.”

Auckland’s efforts hosting the 2017 World Masters’ Games has been described by organisers as “the best of all time,” a high benchmark for organisers of the 2021 Games (to be held in Konsai, Japan).

Netball at Nga Purapura

BY MARGARET ANDREWS

Top class netball came to Ōtaki’s Nga Purapura gym with upcoming regional and Silver Fern team players from Northern Comets and Central Pulse battled for court honours.

This game showed the strengths and abilities of these players. Although the Pulse team topped the scoreboard at each quarter, the Comets picked up their game in the final quarter closing down to Pulse 52-45 from a 12 point deficit in the third quarter. To date Pulse has won all their six games played against the regional other teams.

The Beko Netball League is for the regional development squads with a number of Central Pulse players already in the regional Under 21 squad, including three 16 year old girls.

Bringing these teams to Ōtaki is a great opportunity for our district netballers to see some of those top players and those heading to Silver Ferns status, at little or no cost and no travel. They, particularly the Beko League games, need more promotion so our younger players can see where they can set their sights for future play.

FOTOR Planting

By MARGARET ANDREWS The new fernery at the eastern end of the Chrystalls Walkway is near completion.

The fernery, known as the Kliptank Fernery, is part of the Friends of the Ōtaki River conservation plantings along the river. Tauranga firm, Kliptank funded $2,800 for the ferns, “putting something back into the community”. The firm manufactures water tanks and effluent tanks for use by dairy farmers.

FOTOR chair, Max Lutz, had one installed on his farm recently.

Max Lutz with the Kliptank team from Tauranga, CEO Simone Gibson, Hylton Holtham, Fiona Birchall, Bryce Eaton and Rory McGill, at the Kliptank Fernery opening.

Mr Lutz welcomed the team from Tauranga, It’s a high shot for the Central Pulse goal shooter against who had come down to help with planting. the high stepping Northern Comets goal defence, during the “We put a tank in at Max’s place and when I saw him at the Central Districts Fields Days, he asked if we’d be keen to be involved with the planting,” Simone Gibson, company chief executive said, during the unveiling of the fernery sign. “It’s good to have an opportunity to put something back into the community.

It’s great to be involved with the planting, not just at the end of the phone with money!”

The fernery has a variety of different ferns, from the traditional silver fern to the smaller ground cover varieties, all set among established trees, giving a feeling of walking through a part of our natural bushland.

FOTOR’s Max Lutz wields the shovel as Kliptank’s CEO Simone Gibson sets another fern in its new bed at the Kliptank Fernery

Ms Gibson and four company staff members came to Ōtaki and helped plant the ferns and to see the work the Friends have done along the riverbank. Several dairy farmers from around the wider Ōtaki district who had either installed or were preparing to install the effluent tanks were invited to join the planting day.

Beko Netball match at Ngapurapura

AMICUS CLUB OF ŌTAKI (Formerly The Probus Club of Ōtaki)

Celebrating Friendship, Fellowship and Fun We are a Club for active retired or semi-retired men and women from the Ōtaki area, with over 80 members. The purpose of the Club is to provide regular opportunities to keep members’ minds active, to expand our interests and to enjoy the fellowship of old and new friends. We are not a service club. Our Club is affiliated to Friendship New Zealand Inc. We meet in the Rotary Lounge, Aotaki Street, on the second Monday of the month from 10.00am till midday. The annual subscription is $20.

Meetings include a short informal talk from a Club member, sharing some of their history or recent experiences, followed by morning tea, then an interesting and entertaining Guest Speaker. Trips of interest to members are arranged between meetings.

Visitors and guests are welcome to attend meetings.

Please be our guest – no obligation.

President – Fleur Perry 364-8441 or Secretary Val Long 364-6464

Ōtaki Mail - a community newspaper produced monthly by Ann, Lloyd & Penny, from 176 Waerenga Road, Ōtaki. Printed by Beacon Print, Hastings.

If you have any news, or don't receive your paper by the end of the month, please let us know by phoning 364 5500