POINT WELLS CRIER
VOLUME 16 -
Representation review & submission
Preparing for an emergency
Spotlight on local business
Hospice Home & Gardens Tour
Point Wells Crier
Spring 2024
The Point Wells Ratepayers and Community Association has stayed active, weathering the challenges to focus on local matters Local board representation has been a key issue for communities in the Mahurangi region, as Auckland Council is set to change the number of representatives for the Warkworth area
We're proud to have made our voices heard, with our submission to Auckland Councillors and a verbal presentation by our secretary at the Town Hall
Wecontinuetoworktowards ensuringtheCounciladdressesthe necessaryrepairstoourseawalland developsasolidplanforRiverside Driveandotherareasaffectedby shorelineerosion Acommunity meetingwillbeheldsoontodiscuss theseplans
Withsummeronthehorizon,weare excitedtocelebrateHalloweenand otherupcomingcommunityevents asthewarmweatherreturns!
Ngamihi, PWRCA
Welcome to the Spring 2024 issue of our quarterly village newsletter.
Our aim is to provide items of local interest and/or from local contributors to advise, inform and amuse the residents of our beautiful community We hope you enjoy reading it Thank you to our contributors You are what makes this magazine special If you have something you’d like to share, please email it to our editor alanajclint@hotmail com
We do, of course, rely on advertising revenue to be able to produce and print The Point Wells Crier, so our heartfelt thanks to all our current advertisers for their continued support We ask that you please support them in return by buying local when you can
If you would like to place an advertisement in The Crier, please email our Treasurer pointwellscratreasurer@gmail.com PWCRA Committee
In this Crier:
Representation Review
New Hall Coordinator
Point Wells to host Hospice Home & Gardens Tour
From the archives: a woman county ranger Halloween
Spotlight on local business
The perfect Spring cocktail
I am happy to inform you that we have a new Hall Coordinator, Ann Williamson
On behalf of the PWCRA committee, I would like to welcome Ann and thank her for taking on such an important role in our little village I know she will do an awesome job
As for myself, I will continue to help with community events and the maintenance of our facilities
For all hall bookings, please email as usual to pointwellshall@gmail.com or go to our website: www.pointwellsvillage.co.nz
The last couple of months saw the hall busy with many winter birthday parties, another successful garage sale and several wedding inquiries for summer
Point Wells Hall
As I exit this role, I am also excited to announce that Harbour Hospice has chosen to use our hall during their much anticipated (and SOLD OUT) Homes & Garden Tour on November 10th 2024.
The hall will be open to both ticket holders and the public for refreshments, silent auctions, coffee and food carts, raffles, stalls, and our lovely reserve is available if you’d like to bring a picnic. You are invited to enjoy the atmosphere and show your support for the Hospice.
Finally, I’d like to remind you to use our hall Most private bookings are made by non residents! Our rates are cheap, our facilities are very well kept and its so easy to book. If you’d like to hold a class, workshop or community event here, please get in touch with Ann or email pointwellscra@gmail.com
Priscilla McClintock Ngawaka
Hall Bookings
To book the hall, scan above or fill out our online booking form at www pointwellsvillage co nz/point-wellshall
You will find our live calendar on the website showing availability
For all inquiries email Ann: pointwellshall@gmail.com
PWCRA members will receive a 20% discount on hire rates
2024 - 31 May 2025
To support our advocacy, the publication of the Crier and the PW Library PLEASE JOIN online at: wwwpointwellsvillageconz
Photos from the Representation Review Consultation Session with Auckland Council
Representation Review- RodneyLocal Board
Auckland Council is currently undertaking the ‘representation review’ to consider how well we are all represented across our 21 local boards.
This review is required by law must happen every six years But this year, the Council’s review is happening alongside a look into how local boards are structured as well
The representation review looks at:
how many councillors and local board members we have how they are elected ward and board boundaries, names and the number of representatives in each area
The local board reorganisation will look at:
the optimal number of local boards, particularly given Auckland's growth since 2010 when the council was set up the range and scope of their decision-making how local boards can be funded to get more done for their communities
A proposal to change the b d i f bdi i i
They propose contracting the current Warkworth and Kumeu board subdivision boundaries to the townships and their surrounding area and replace Wellsford with one large rural subdivision taking in South Head, Kaukapakapa, Puhoi, Kaipara Flats, Wellsford, Pakiri and even Kawau Island Rodney’s fourth subdivision, Dairy Flat, would stay much as it is
NAG believes these new boundaries would allow elected members to represent voters’ priorities and interests more fairly, and create communities of common interest, rather than communities of place
The Point Wells Ratepayers and Community Association held a meeting with Council representatives at a late stage in the consultation process, having come in late to the process. There was little awareness of the proposal, and the meeting helped clarify why this review was needed, and what the impacts would be to our local representation
Omaha, Matakana, Whangateau and Warkworth representatives attended and there was immediate opposition to NAGs proposal
Point Wells put forward a written submission on behalf of our i i b l
The reason for our opposition to the changes are :
The Council has used 2018 census data to justify that Warkworth is not growing at same rate as other parts of Rodney and can therefore give up a representative This data is now inaccurate and doesn’t align to the Council’s official population growth predictions
While we agree that other areas might be getting larger and require more representation, this doesn’t mean we should have to reduce ours
Point Wells belongs to the eastern coastal group of communities that has specific concerns with sea level rise, coastal erosion and protection of community assets that more inland communities do not have
We don’t believe a Wellsford based representative will advocate for us and our issues
The Warkworth subdivision produces significantly more rates than other parts of Rodney and where possible this should be invested back into our community and interests, not spread across a huge new northern area
At a recent meeting, the Rodney Local Board voted to support the proposal with some amendments This means it is very likely to go ahead, despite the strong opposition from our area. It will be very important to ensure that our local concerns are well understood by the next local board members and are a significant pollical issue in the next election 2025
Watch Alan talk on behalf of Point Wells here : https://akhaveyoursayaucklandcoun cilgovtnz/auckland-councilrepresentationproject/widgets/445819/videos/27570
From left, existing Rodney subdivision boundaries, NAG’s preferred proposal and the option local board members ended up supporting From: https://www.localmatters.co.nz/auckland-council/board-bids-for-fairer-local-government-boundaries-in-rodney/
Representation Review Hearings Session – 3rd September 2024 September 04, 2024
See Omaha Beach Inc’s submission :
Omaha Beach Inc’s submission cont. :
Connoisseurs Club
Connoisseurs is a longding club that has been ve in the village for over 45 s. We gather once a month oint Wells Hall, on the 3rd rsday evening, to enjoy great and good company. yone is welcome to join!
year, we’re planning our stmas dinner for November are looking for volunteers to with the preparations If d like to attend or are rested in becoming a mber, please contact Elaine 211300409 or Susan at 4528216
Upcoming dinners will be held on the 20th of September and the 17th of October. Bring a plate, meet new people, and enjoy the evening. Entry is just $2.
In rememberance
Local Legend: Mr John Foster
The Point Wells committee would like to acknowledge the passing of our long-term resident Mr John Foster.
John lived in Omaha and Point Wells for many years, and was known as a joyful, kind and active member of our community Mr Foster paid special attention to elderly residents of the village, calling in to ensure people were not isolated or lonely, and visiting friends who moved to retirement homes John lived to the incredible age of 91 years old and was farewelled by family and friends on the 31st July at the Holy Name Catholic Church.
Spring again! Where has
The library has had a few farewelling Julia Snelling Coast and we will miss Ju has been a volunteer for a number of roles, one bein plus organising the book the book sale and handy m
Sadly, we are also losing L whirl wind of enthusiasm. school activities and a hus the junior section was a st
Thank you to you for all yo
There is of course always a joined us on the committ for some time covering an background in book editin – so if you’re browsing in t place!
Point Wells Library
The Annual Book Sale
Yes – that time of year again. The book sale will be on Saturday 30th November from 900am to 100pm Not only will we be looking for book donations, but also volunteers We set up on the Friday before at about 430pm, and then close up from 200pm on This involves a certain amount of lifting, putting tables away etc Plus we also need people to help during the sale If you would like to help either call into the library and sign up or give Vanessa a call on 0274 758 992
If you have books in good condition you would like to donate please drop them into the library
Auckland Bulk Loan
A new selection of Auckland Bulk Loan are arriving today and should be processed and in the library by the middle of the week, and then the next should be arriving in December – just in time for your Christmas reading.
Overdues
At the time of writing we have 52 books overdue ranging from 63 days to only 2 If you are at the top end of the overdue days please could you drop them into the drop box, or bring them back when we are open and get some more
The Notice Board
The Library now holds a key for the notice board outside the Library should you want to put anything in there.
Library hours:
Monday evening 5pm – 6pm
Wednesday morning 10am - 12pm
Friday afternoon 3pm - 5pm
Saturday morning 10am – 12pm
Last year, Point Wells came alive with gh and dragons roaming the streets on Hallo
This year, the Point Wells Club, Jodi Sterl PWCRA are teaming up again to create a Halloween event that’s sure to thrill We’r planning gets underway, here are a few i mind:
Supervision is essential:
Halloween in Point Wells is a family event, not a drop-off zone All children must be always supervised by their parents or guardians. If any children are seen alone or lost, we may have to notify the Police We simply don’t have enough volunteers to babysit!
Safety first:
With so many kids and families out and about, it's crucial to stay alert for traffic and be mindful of everyone’s safety.
Halloween
dark, especially in costume!
Details to be confirmed:
We can’t wait t more details ab fantastic comm and look forwa you there! Get another night o frights, and fam thrills!
It’s 3am, its cold, it’s dark and there is a medical event in your household You dial 111 and are put through to St Johns call centre You explain the nature of your event and provide details They tell you an ambulance is on the way. What do you do now?? Turn on some lights, including outside lights to assist in your house being located. Jot down some timings including the event itself or circumstances leading up to it, medications the patient is on and any taken, last food and liquids ingested, any allergies etc This will assist when help arrives, and memory becomes clouded with the stress of the situation.
A short time later you hear a vehicle arrive and there’s a knock at the door But to your surprise it’s not an ambulance, but a group wearing neon yellow chested overalls carrying medical gear and tell you they’re from the local fire station You think ‘What the hell’s going on?? I phoned for an ambulance not the Fire Brigade!!!’
This situation is surprisingly common. St Johns receive the call, enter and prioritise the job As well as dispatching an ambulance they can communicate the job to the Fire Communication Centre to dispatch a ‘Fire’ unit also. Fire first responders are medically trained and provide initial care, assessment and assistance until the ambulance arrives. If the ambulance is coming from Warkworth, then the arrival time of both vehicles will not be far apart However, it is also very common for the Warkworth ambulance to be tied up at another job and the ambulance will in fact be coming from further afield, sometimes much further afield and the wait time can be considerable
Fire first responders bridge that gap, providing care for the patient and updates back to St Johns either via the communication centre or direct by phone.
However, recently there have been at least two occasions in Pt Wells, where serious medical events have occurred, and the Brigade has not been called out for the events This may have arisen from how the phone call was triaged with the call taker entering job details and based on what they were told, then categorizing and prioritizing the job, together with ambulance availability, the system will dictate whether Fire first responders are turned out to the job also.
It is unfortunate the Brigade was not turned out to these jobs, but be assured Brigade members remain fully committed to turning out and assisting you in your time of need. It is what we train and want to do!!! I know many of you have been recipients of such care in the past
Lastly an update on our replacement medical vehicle. We await delivery of a 4 x 4 utility vehicle in sometime Dec/Jan, followed by a period where it will be fitted out with beacons radios, livery etc. So likely early next year it will become operational, giving us a vehicle that is fit for purpose and ability to access areas unable to do so previously, such as rough terrain, paddocks and beaches etc. I just hope that I’m not the one having to wash or vacuum it out!!!
Chris Jensen!
Point Wells to host Harbour H Homes & Garden Tour
After a six-year hiatus Harbour Hospice’s Homes and Gardens Tour is returning The bi-annual fundraiser was cancelled in 2020 due to Covid-19 Harbour Hospice Community and Events Fundraiser Emily Thomas says, “We’re thrilled to be bringing it to the community again with a new look and a refresh”
Around 300 ticket holders will enjoy an exclusive tour of Point Wells’ most beautiful homes and gardens on Sunday 10 November From contemporary to timeless and traditional, more than a dozen properties will be on show, offering inspiration and a peek into some of the area’s most spectacular residences The event promises a “real community feel”, says Emily, with the Point Wells Hall to act as a central hub where coffee and food trucks will be set up alongside stalls selling plants and Christmas cakes, silent auctions, raffles and more
Point Wells couple Mike and Debbie Jones are among those who’ve generously opened their home for hospice, with Mike saying, “As we’ve grown older we’ve become so much more aware of the important role hospice has in the community Most of us know somebody who has been cared for by hospice This is a great cause to support”
The couples home is a new build, which they completed and moved into about a year ago Some would describe it as a Cape Cod style home but Debbie, who has worked in real estate for 30 years, says they see it more as an easy-living modern home “with great flow”
High ceilings and well-proportioned rooms give the four-bedroom, three-bathroom home a comfortable, spacious feel, while the walls display a wonderful collection of art
The home was designed by architect, Adrian Robinson, and the build was project managed by Mike, who has worked on countless construction sites over the years as a plumber Their garden was designed by landscape designer Kirsten Sach
The couple love the thrill of watching a home take shape from the foundations up, so they’ve built a number of homes over the years “The longest we’ve ever stayed in a house is seven years because we get excited about the next project,” Debbie says
This one they hope to enjoy for a while yet, though They’re looking forward to seeing their newly-planted garden grow, and foresee many happy summers with their two grandchildren splashing about in the pool and hitting a golf ball around in the neighbouring vacant lot
Tickets will be on sale online from 20 August To support your local hospice and enjoy a fantastic day out buy your tickets here: https://harbourhospice.org.nz/event/homes-and-gardens-tour/
Whangateau Harbour Care Group Public Meeting
We know the Whangateau Harbour can look like paradise, but how is it coping with pressures such as warming waters, sediment and contaminant runoff, pests and predators? And why should we care? Whangateau HarbourCare Group is hosting a Community Hui on Saturday 5 October to help answer these questions (11 am - 2 pm in the Whangateau Hall)
Held in partnership with Manuhiri Kaitiaki Charitable Trust and the Leigh Marine Laboratory, guest speakers will help us to understand the cultural and ecological importance of the harbour, and what science research and mātauranga Māori can tell us about its health and how it's changing
Over lunch, there will be opportunity to meet passionate community groups, hear about their awesome mahi and ask questions
We will hold a local knowledge sharing session, where the community can share observations, insights and aspirations - all vital to this kaupapa
This hui is intended to start an important conversationkicking off the development of a community-led action plan for the Whangateau Harbour and its catchment Please join us!
You can reserve your place by registering here (it's quick and easy - we'd be grateful if you could register, as this helps with planning / catering)
Please feel free to share this email with anyone who might be interested, and let me know if you have any questions
Mauri ora
Gardening with Andrew Steen
POINT WELLSA (SUB) TROPICAL PARADISE
Often, I hear people say that Point Wells has a tropical or subtropical climate. Sadly for me as I love the tropics, this is not the case, as the tropics officially start at the Tropic of Capricorn, which is roughly as far North of Point Wells as the length of NZ again. The subtropics are not as well defined as the tropics, but typically is considered to start at latitude 35, so Point Wells misses out by a hundred or so kilometres.
However, as I mentioned in my last article, with its peninsula position and sheltered on three sides by ranges and hills, Point Wells does have a climate that can be considered subtropical, and with a bit of jiggery pokery we can modify our microclimate to harbour even more tender plants from the tropics
So, what delectable subtropical and tropical plants can we grow here? Currently growing in my garden I have Pineapples, Papaya, Bananas, Jackfruit, Pomegranate, Passionfruit (the tropical varieties and the normal one), Avocado, Limes (Makrut, Yuzu and Finger Limes), Ginger, Turmeric, Kra Chai, Yacon, Malabar Spinach, Coffee, Tea, Sugarcane, Tropical Apricot, Lucuma, Inga Bean, Cherimoya and more. Not all are mature enough to be harvested yet, but they have all survived at least one or more winters, some with more success than others.
In my little old greenhouse, which is unheated, I have Tamarillos, Tomatoes, more Papaya and Rocoto Chillies, which have all overwintered well and are fruiting now, plus Lemongrass which I prefer to grow indoors even though they will grow OK outdoors. In the newer heated greenhouse are Vanilla, Cacao, Coconut, Mango, more Papaya and lots of seedlings of other rare tropicals that I hope to harvest in years to come.
Some of these I am pretty sure will survive and fruit outside, such as the Mangoes, Lychee, Atherton Raspberry and Tamarind, so the first of these will be planted outside in warm sheltered spots this summer. Others such as the Vanilla, Coconut and Cacao will spend the rest of their lives in a cosseted environment. They are true tropicals!
So, for anyone missing the tropics and hankering after a juicy Mango or fragrant Pawpaw, yes, it is possible to grow these in our (sub)tropical paradise, go for it!
Green Lemonade–
The Perfect Spring Cocktail
It’s the season of extra lemons, what to do with them all? A tall glass of lemonade is a refreshing treat on warm days When you want something a little different or special, it's easy to give it some pizazz The Green Lemonade fits the bill perfectly and everyone can enjoy this fun and fruity green mocktail recipe
The recipe is quite simple It combines your favourite lemonade with limeade along with fresh kiwi It comes together in just a matter of minutes and is an invigorating drink for spring and summer
Ingredients
4 slices kiwi, peeled
1 1/2 tablespoons simple syrup
1/2 cup lemonade
1/4 cup limeade, or lime cordial
Kiwi slice, or lime slice, garnish
To make: Gather the
Point Wells Garden Circle
There have been plenty of treats for our members so far this year and there are more to come. Spring
We visited some gorgeous gardens earlier on, thanks to the generous spirit of locals Lesley & Philip Lindesay, Pip & Ken Greer, Anya Brighouse and also Jane & Graeme Beals.
In April, on the eve of saying goodbye to the garden she and Graeme had created over the last ten years, Jane gave a talk about her daily practice in the garden. She described it as her “happy place”, explaining how it evolved over time, naming numerous local people she had acquired plants from. It was inspirational to walk around their stunning harbourside garden and appreciate what they had created together. We wish Jane & Graeme well in their next garden project in Matakana.
We’ve also enjoyed some wonderfu presentations in the hall: two well known NZ landscape designers Xanthe White and Tony Murrel Auckland artist and floral portrait photographer Emma Bass; and highly skilled local floral art designer, Christine Endean.
For inquiries about joining our local garden club please email: ptwellsgarden@gmail.com
Most recently Matakana Cinemas arranged a special screening for us of the beautiful documentary “Five Seasons, the Gardens of Piet Oudolf” about this well-known Dutch garden designer. He is one of the most influential people in landscape design on the world stage in the last 20 years or so MMK provided a fabulous afternoon tea to follow.
NOTE:
Harbour Hospice is holding another Homes & Garden Tour to raise funds for services in the Warkworth/Wellsford area. This event is taking place in the Point Wells area on Sunday 1 November 10 Many locals are generously opening their properties for this special cause
13th September 2024
REPORT
The Events group recently held a Wine & Cheese evening. Again, this proved to be a great success with tickets selling out very quickly. Due to the limited numbers we can accommodate in our Club, it is important that registration to attend any indoor event is made as soon as it is advertised
Our club is preparing to run the Blue September Fundraising Auction in support of The Prostate Cancer Foundation on the 26th September. More information on this will be advertised soon. This will be another memorable evening, and we can guarantee another fun filled night to remember.
With summer now only weeks away, this is the season when our Club’s outdoor activities increase. We like to encourage our members to utilise the facilities that we have on hand.
Be it Family Bowls, Pétanque, or simply making use of the children’s play area. Please reach out to one of the committee members to ensure the required equipment is made available.
31st October – Halloween (This is mainly for the younger members of our community)
5th November - Melbourne Cup afternoon
Trevor Tull - President
Warren Lloyd - Treasurer
Justine Torrice - Events
Bella Grise - Secretary
Lesley Edwards - Bar
John McBeth - Grounds Maintenance/Greens
Tina Edwards - Venue Hire
BeforeIproceedwithmyreport,Iwouldliketoconveymy deepest sympathy to the family of Beverley Aves who tragically passed away on 7th September Bev was a proactivepartofthePointWellsClubEventsgroup,and shewillbegreatlymissedbyallwhoknewandworked withher.
I would also like to send a Get-Well message to Lee Sumnerwhohadanastyfallthisweek
Kindestregardstoyouall, TrevorTull ClubPresident
Just as importantly, don’t forget our regular Club nights are Wednesday & Saturday Night’s from 5pm to 7pm.
This a great meeting place where one can catch up with friends and neighbours.
As a paid up member this could also be your special night as our Club’s draw presently stands at $260.00, but you must be present when your membership number is drawn!
Our family friendly facilities always bring about an added demand of our club for private functions. To make a booking please contact Tina Edwards via the email below.
I would again like to acknowledge and express my sincere thanks to our Committee, our valued members, our many sponsors, and to all of those individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our Club remains a very special part of our community.
If you would like to become part of our great little Club, just contact or chat to any of our Committee members, or email us on: ptwellsbc@gmail.com
Dave Tibby
Darren Knight
Phil Oades
Marilyn Stacey
Ian Hartshorne
Karen Lloyd
wilds@xtra.co.nz
Point Wells Boating Club
Dean Butchers 3.04kg
Our next members competition will be in October, provisionally on Saturday 12th October, weather dependent
Also, for members and other interested Point Wellians, we will be having our Annual General Meeting at the Point Wells Club on the following Sunday 20th October.
Watch out for post updates on both upcoming events on the Point Wells page on Facebook, and on the community notice boards
In the meantime, hope to see you out there, and remember you can contact us on pwboatclub@gmailcom
Tight lines,
Well finally the weather all aligned, and our second members only competition of the year went ahead on Saturday 27 July.
A great day was had out on the water, and although fishing itself was tough, we ended up with 12 good fish weighed in at the Point Wells Club
First prize went to Dean Butchers, a 3 04Kg snapper.
Second prize, and the only ladies fish weighed in on the day, went to Innesa Dickinson at 2.59kg.
Third prize went to new member Danvers Devereux at 2.17Kg, with honourable mention to Paul Dickinson at 2.07Kg.
Thanks to all members who participated, both on the day and at the weighin, a great crowd!
Thanks to all our sponsors, but particularly Ze Build Ltd and Caprice Ltd for sponsoring our members prizes, and to Matakana Botanicals for donating an extra prize for the ladies
THE POINT WELLS BOATING CLUB IS SUPPORTED BY: ZE BUILD, POINT WELLS STORE, CAPRICE, CENTURION PRINT, FLOORING XTRA, BENEFITZ, HUNTING & FISHING WARKWORTH, GULL MATAKANA, STEVE JOHNSON, MATAKANA LIQUOR
Point Wells Emergency Management & Community Resilience
PREPARING FOR AN EMERGENCY EVENT IN THE VILLAGE
EVACUATE TO TAKATU ROAD
Auckland Emergency Management is working with Local Boards to prepare Emergency Management Plans These will help inform Point Wells and other communities in Rodney on how best to prepare for emergency management events. In the meantime, the Point Wells Committee is committed to building on our own emergency management plan – which will best direct us all to how to manage a major emergency event like Cyclone Gabrielle.
What should we prepare for?
Tsunami Emergencies
Auckland Emergency Management (AEM) and Auckland Council have just released their new tsunami risk map, which shows coastal and inland flood risk from tsunami.
Long term residents can recall large tsunami waves that landed on our coastline in the 1960s. The risk is real, and Point Wells is low lying with only one exit way. Being prepared for receiving alerts and evacuating is our best way of preparing for this emergency event.
The risk map now indicates that areas exposed to the Pacific Ocean like Aotea Great Barrier Island and Auckland’s northeastern coastal communities are still at risk of large tsunami, as is anyone that enjoys the beaches and marine areas of the region. In the map Whangateau Harbour, Omaha Bay and up to Leigh are clearly indicated in red.
Point Wells Emergency Management & Community Resilience
EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS:
Our Tsunami Sirens have been decommissioned and will not go off in the event of a Tsunami event. It is very important that every household in Point Wells is aware of this and in a state of emergency preparedness the main warnings and alerts will come via our mobile phones, which means keep a phone at hand, turned on and always charged. Don’t turn your phone off at night!
When visiting Omaha Beach be aware of the best place to move to in the event of a Tsunami event Do not attempt to evacuate to the Whangateau estuary or cross the bridge, if possible, instead move to higher ground at the southern end of the beach
HEAVY RAIN AND FLOODING
This year we have already had severe weather events, that put us all at risk of power outages, wind damage to our properties and assets and even surface flooding
Prepare your home and property:
Keep your drains clean and clear If you share a drain with neighbors discuss how this will be managed together Point Wells has a unique drainage system that allows the surface water to flow off our properties – but it doesn’t work if there are blockages
Have a list of items that need to be put away in storage or tied down in the event of high winds. Trampolines and outdoor furniture can easily shift in the winds causing damage Keep up with tree maintenance – falling branches can not only cause injury but damage roofs and vehicles easily. They also take out power lines
Keep your gutters clean and clear
SOME TIPS IN THE EVENT OF HEAVY RAIN:
Stay up to date with warnings and watches at MetService: https://www.metservice.com/ warnings/home
If heavy rain is forecast, clear stormwater drains and gutters to help prevent surface flooding
In high winds – secure or bring inside your outdoor items like trampolines, wheelie bins, chairs, and pets
Stay out of flood waters Do not drive or walk through it. Flood water is dangerous, strong currents can sweep away cars, structures and people. It can contain debris, sewage and chemicals that will make you sick.
Check road conditions at before travelling: https://www journeys nzta govt nz/traffic/regions/9
Have an evacuation plan and prepare a grab bag with essentials. Follow any instructions about evacuation of your area Flash floods can happen quickly so if you see rising water do not wait for official warnings, self-evacuate GTFO (Get The Flood Out)
Point Wells Emergency Management & Community Resilience
Point Wells needs to build resilience to be ready for another Cyclone or Pandemic. This starts with every home being prepared and ready to manage through another 3- 5-day event where we are cut off from key services including power and shops. Our newly formed Point Wells CRG group will continue to meet with the Rodney East, North & West CRG Cluster this year.
HOME EMERGENCY KIT:
It’s important to be prepared at home for emergencies and power cuts, we recommend having the following located in an easy-to-access place at home.
Water storage container - bottled water - canned easy-to-heat food - gas cooker or BBQ - lighters - radio (battery operated)torches and lanterns (battery operated) - bucket - first aid kitcleaning wipes – batteries.
TIPS FOR A POWER CUT:
Seriously consider purchasing a generator or installing solar panels and batteries.
Fill a bath with water if you have advance warning, you can use this water to bucket fill your toilet cistern
At each hand basin in your home make sure you have a bottle of water, wet wipes and a small LED light
Make sure you’re BBQ gas bottle is always at least ½ full or carry a spare
Keep several slicker pads or containers of water in your freezer at all times that you can transfer into your fridge to keep the contents cooler for longer
Turn off high-power usage appliances at the wall (induction cooktops, heaters etc) during the power outage
Make sure you have surge protector multi-boxes for all technology items.
This article was originally published in the Winter 1981 edition of the Point Wells Crier
A WOMAN COUNTY RANGER FOR POINT WELLS
Throughout New Zealand there are possibly few women who are appointed to a responsible position that of a Ranger, in Town, Borough or County Local Government However, Point Wells can be sited to be among the first to do so. While it may be considered to be a striking blow for women’s liberation, suitability and merit is the requisite criteria
From the archives
Community Association and the due confirmation of by Parks Department of Rodney County Council has announced the appointment of Mrs G Walton of 8 Harbour View Road as official ranger of Point Wells.
capable and public minded woman, and there is little doubt she will carry out the duties at all times of County Ranger She will be supported by our own community association backed by it’s zealous residents of our Garden Village. We wish her a successful term of office
NEIGHBOURHOOD SUPPORT
SPRING 2024
CRIME SPOTTING
Neighbourhood Support (which used to be Neighbourhood Watch) has been reactivated for Point Wells and 26 locals have kindly signed up at the Open Day to be members. Signage has gone up around Point Wells and information packs have been delivered Signs do make a difference in crime prevention. We are continuing to welcome more volunteers, so if you’d like to join please contact Anne Holman at anne@rsvpevents.co.nz
SIGN UP FOR COMMUNITY CAM
Community Cam is a voluntary, not for profit community initiative where people can register a property with CCTV, and upload CCTV footage, to help solve crime in their neighbourhood
When a crime is committed, the NZ Police can refer to Community Cam to quickly identify CCTV locations of registered users in and around the scene of the crime This then allows the police to contact you to help with an investigation
Your details are confidential and secure Only the NZ Police can see your information and, if you choose to upload your CCTV footage, the footage is password protected for your security.
Community Cam just lets them know who owns a CCTV system to save valuable time doorknocking. We encourage all CCTV owners in Point Wells to sign up Community Cam™ | Communities working together to solve crime
This will create a web of CCTV that will deter professional thieves and reduce crime in our village.
If you witness and wish to report any of the following in your neighbourhood: theft, burglary, destruction of property, disorder or manner of driving you can phone:
Phone 105 if this has already happened
Phone 111 if this is happening now
Phone anonymously
Crimestoppers
0800 555 111
10% DISCOUNT
At the recent AGM for Neighbourhood Support, Armstrong Security gave a presentation on alarms, safes, locks and general home security. They have offered members of Neighbourhood Support a 10% discount on purchases until October 15th.
Bandw Keith Swa
Nobody love as Keith Swa Bandwagon
Local compa provides sou projector and services and make your e your home, o at a local ven Bandwagon advice and s equipment a reasonable cost
Spotlight: Local business
From private events for 20-300 people right up to big crowds of thousands Bandwagon has the gear and expertise to get the job done
Point Wells Hall works well for birthday parties, weddings and other celebrations and Bandwagon creates an incredible atmosphere there Keith Swasbrook, the owner of Bandwagon has owned a property in Point Wells for over 20 years and has lived here permanently for the last 7 years Keith has been a fantastic supporter of the PWCRA and we highly recommend him and his services
Feel free to give Keith a call to discuss your next event. 021840530.
Every Body YogaCaroline Searle
Yoga has become a pillar for me in daily life I first started exploring yoga 25 years ago, initially for physical exercise, but I soon discovered so much more Over the years through the different phases of my life yoga has been a true support
For a long time I'd dreamt of doing my teacher training, 3 years ago this dream came true Towards the end of my training, I had this drive to offer community yoga - casual, accessible classes for all, in our community hall Everybody Yoga’ was born, with the idea that yoga truly can be for everybody
My first class is a slow-flow Hatha style, designed to let you move with your body, as it is that day, with a theme to reflect on both on and off the mat Understanding that this type of movement may not suit everyone, I’m excited to now introduce: Chair-supported yoga This class is designed for those recovering from injury, illness, managing pain or with limited mobility. No floor work, just gentle movement using a chair for support
Yoga is not just about the poses (Asana), there is so much more to explore Breath and movement, no matter how small, is tonic for the body and mind.
f you're curious to know more please give me a call or come along on a Wednesday
Term 4 classes begin on 16th October - 11th December, $15 per class or $60 for x5 class pass.
9am Hatha (slow flow), 10:30am Chair supported flow.
Point Wells Hall
Caroline - Phone: 0212018859 Facebook: Every Body Yoga
Beetopia nz ltd. Beetopia nz ltd.
Spring Update Spring Update
It is spring - so that time of year again when birds and bees do their thing getting all excited about each other; which is often a signal that bees are ready to implement their instinct of swarming whereas birds are putting on acrobatic displays of flight techniques and plumage
Queen rearing frame
This article will shed some light on what beekeepers call the OTS queen rearing methods meaning ‘On the Spot’ This method consists of using a hive tool to press down and make a notch along the bottom 1⁄3 of the chosen cells containing larvae.
Only healthy colonies with substantial resources can raise strong queens This applies to any queen-rearing method Unless you have healthy bees to begin with, you can't expect success.
Only work with strong healthy colonies that have plenty of resources At a minimum, a strong colony in early Spring would need at least 5+ solid frames of capped brood, all covered with bees and 2-3 frames of honey and pollen. I would hesitate to raise queen cells on anything weaker than this
Strong hives must always do the work of building cells A key mistake among new beekeepers is asking small nucs to build cells It just doesn't work, and you end up with small, immature queens that often won't even get mated When doing OTS properly, the original queen is removed along with a couple frames of brood and bees with a frame or two of honey and placed in its own box.
The original colony, now queen less, is the only colony strong enough to raise queen cells, having 4 or more frames of brood, lots of bees and resources. This original colony is only tasked with raising cells. Make an OTS notch on one or more frames with larva and then come back a week later and cull cells down to just the largest One can also buy cell bar frames that can hold plastic or wax queen cups into which larvae are grafted.
These are then inserted into a queen less colony where future queen cells will be raised Various grafting tools are required with this method in order to lift the larva out of its original cell and place it into the cell bar frame plus a steady hand and good eyesight or magnifying glasses are a must!
upcoming upcoming
Beetopia will be hosting our beekeeping courses again this year when the weather warms up and we shall be teaching those interested how to graft their own queens - we also have an impressive library with plenty of books on loan on a multitude of bee related musings.
visitus visitus
We have also been busy meeting new honey stockists from the South Island and can now offer some gold medal honey varietals from the South - absolutely scrumptious Our candle collection fetish continues, and we now have well over 80 different shapes of pure beeswax candles - so pop in and visitopen Saturday 9-3pm and Sundays 9-1pm
kidszone
JeremyGibbons
0212449518
