The Millwater Mag, April 2024

It was sad to hear recently that the royal family not only have King Charles’s cancer diagnosis to contend with, but that Princess Catherine is also currently undergoing preventative cancer treatment. Unfortunately, so many of us know the terrible weight of having cancer diagnosed in a loved one, and how it turns your world completely upside down, sometimes forever. Royalist or not, we can all appreciate what they are going through as a family and our wee team at the mag wish the royal family all the privacy and healing time they need.

It seems somehow appropriate that in our April issue we have a bit of a holistic health vibe going on. In support of mental and emotional wellbeing we have articles on the loneliness epidemic, a local writer with an autobiography about healing and resilience, why Niue is a great spot for a bit of active R&R, a local parenting skills course that could help with tricky family dynamics and reviews on a couple of historical novels if you’re feeling in need of a little escapism.

With your physical wellbeing in mind we have information on how to prevent bowel cancer, how to look after your skin microbiome, how to look after your children’s eyesight, a cautionary tale from Coastguard about staying alive on the water, and a wonderful recounting of a tramp across Stuart Island to inspire you to get out there and active in the fresh air.

Please pop your feet up and enjoy.

Claire Nevans

Found & Fancied

A few items we spotted locally this month and rather fancied.

1. Blackened market fish $36 at The Fat Oyster 316 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa

2. Canned hugs $15 at Sweet Disorder 25 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Silverdale

3. Lavender lady greeting card $7.99 at Fabulous Flowers Silverdale Mall

4. Graphic guitar tee at Berlin Clothing Bakehouse Lane, Orewa

The house that generosity built

When Elaine and Ross Morley from GJ Gardener Rodney East agreed to build a house in Milldale and donate the proceeds from its auction to help fund the new Orewa Surf Life Saving Community Hub, a whole team of dedicated people came on board, donating their time, energy and resources to help turn this great idea into a reality.

With the house build now well underway, many of those in the Surf Club House appeal team including OSLSC, GJ Gardner, Milldale and Bayleys were able to gather on site recently to view the progress for themselves. With concrete poured, frames up and the roof on, everyone was able to walk through and get a good sense of what the home will be like.

The 147m² 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom one-of-a-kind GJ design was created to suit the site. A spacious and bright open-plan living zone is the heart of the home, with luxurious iconic oak flooring going in that is both practical and elegant. The custom-designed kitchen with Fisher & Paykel appliances and a large scullery will be perfect for modern living, looking out on the dining and living areas, where everyone can connect. Here stacker doors will slip back to reveal the outstanding alfresco area, perfect for entertaining.

The main suite is at the rear, with a large walk-in robe and an ensuite with wall-to-wall shower. Off the hall, a versatile space with two more bedrooms and a central bathroom provides plenty of room for a family and lots of flexibility for different use at all stages of life.

All going to plan, the build should be completed sometime in May. The auction, being run by Bayleys, will take place onsite at 55 Spars Road, Milldale around June/July, once all the Council paperwork is complete.

The proposed community hub, a vital new asset for our growing community, is a massive undertaking, and proceeds from this house auction is likely to be the largest non-institutional contribution the fundraising campaign will receive.

So, if this home fits what you’re looking for, keep your eyes peeled for the announcement of the auction date. Whoever buys this home is not just getting a stunning, brand-new home made with lots of aroha and manaakitanga. They will also be playing a significant part in helping build our new community hub and they will own a new piece of local history.

Book Reviews

Turbulent Threads

by Karen McMillan

My new historical novel is set in 1890s Dunedin. Suddenly orphaned, Greer Gillies travels to Larnach Castle to work as a servant, and it seems she can no longer follow her dreams. But the 1890s were exciting and prosperous times, especially for young women, and I’ve tried to capture what it would have been like living in this decade as we follow Greer’s story.

My novel also reflects Dunedin’s fascinating multicultural heritage. In the infamous Devil's Half-Acre, Scots, Irish, Chinese and Lebanese lived side by side, often new immigrants supporting each other in their endeavours.

Greer and most of the characters in Turbulent Threads are entirely fictional, but her story is counterpointed by the real-life story of William Larnach and his troubles, his marriage to his third wife Constance, scandalous rumours of an illicit love affair, and his suicide in the houses of Parliament.

Turbulent Threads is a page-turning saga set in extraordinary times, that has music, fashion, women’s rights and a tender love story at its core.

Quentin Wilson Publishing, RRP $37.99

The Women

by Kristin Hannah

Exploring the Vietnam War from a female perspective, The Women follows the story of ‘Frankie’ McGrath, who impulsively signs up to join the Army Nurse Corps to follow her beloved brother to Vietnam. Her well-to-do family are horrified. Her brother is a hero to go to war, but they cannot understand her decision to go also. Before Frankie even reaches Vietnam, the news arrives that her brother has been killed, and she arrives in Vietnam grieving, inexperienced and completely unprepared for the brutal war she has been thrust into. Powerful friendships are formed, but opening up her heart to love could be her undoing…

The Women is both beautiful and brutal, breathtaking and insightful. It examines sensitively this infamous war shining a light on the women who served in this conflict. It brings to life the real-life women and their heroic service to their country in extreme conditions, but also the tragedy of their homecoming and the very real problems Vietnam vets faced on their return.

Pan Macmillan, RRP $37.99

The Shire & Hobbits Rock Climbing & Adventuring! Rivendell & the Elves Science Show & Wizards Trolls, Orcs & Gollum

Hobbits bring whimsy and delight!

Prepare to scale new heights as we go rock climbing.

Jr's create watercolor works of art, Sr's create hobbit hole greeting cards. Enjoy making and eating Hobbit Hole cupcakes.

Back on site - immerse yourself in a variety of Middle Earth adventures and games (Trip)

Step into the enchanted realm of Rivendell. Craft a life size magic Elven sword and create your own detailed map of Middle Earth. Test your agility in Elven races.

Embark on a journey of discovery with Nano Girl science show.

Messengers & Spies

Women in Business event a huge success

What an incredible way to celebrate International Women's Day!

On 8 March we kicked off our new quarterly Women in Business series with a bang at a sold out event held at The Clubhouse Café. Mingling, lunch, goodie bags, and invaluable tips from Nicki Osbaldiston on 'Speaking up about your Business' helped make it such a wonderful event.

The atmosphere was positive with discussions, laughter and a strong sense of inclusion. We truly bonded as a community of women and we can't wait for the next one!

A huge shoutout to The Botanic, Nicki and our amazing sponsors for their generosity in supporting our business prizes and goodie bags. Such a giving community of businesses!

Many have already RSVP’d to the next event being held on 10 May. We are thrilled this event was so well received in our community.

Tasha Gummer | General Manager, Silverdale Business

Bonding beyond the classroom walls

There was a lot of excitement for the Year 7 students at Orewa College last month as they left their desks behind and headed out to take part in Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) week.

As well as creating some great teaching and learning opportunities, having an EOTC week in term one gives the Year 7 students a chance to bond with their new classmates, challenge themselves and try something new. ‘It’s also a nice way for the teachers to see a different side of their students,’ says Karl Buckley, head of Year 7 at Orewa College.

This year there were over 300 Year 7 students taking part, so the classes were split across two weeks, with everyone participating in eight activities over five days, mostly within our local area. The activities included camp cooking, community action, an art scavenger hunt, team-building, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding and raft-building, a high-ropes course and performing arts. ‘We’ve refined our activities and providers

over many years’ says Mr Buckley. ‘We now have qualified instructors from NZ Surf Academy, Bigfoot Adventures, Tree Adventures and Centrestage Theatre, and we also incorporate a few low- or no-cost activities run by our Year 7 teachers’.

Mr Buckley says he was thrilled with how well the students engaged in the activities on offer and the positive attitudes they displayed, even when the weather wasn’t the best. ‘It has been great seeing students bond over the course of the week,’ he says. ‘Students who perhaps had not spoken much in class helping each other get through a tricky bit on the high-ropes course. Seeing students who were reluctant to give performing arts a go working with the Centrestage tutors Lisa Chappell and Jodie Dorday.’

Chatting with some of the students after their adventurous week it seems camp cooking was the most popular activity followed closely by the high-ropes course at Tree Adventures, and several students even said travelling together on the bus to and from Woodhill Forrest was a lot of fun.

Mr Buckley would like to thank the dedicated team of Year 7 teachers, many of whom helped develop different activities, the parent helpers and even the parents and whanau who helped their children get organised each day, for all helping to make EOTC week 2024 such a great success.

Claire Nevans | Editor

Hot tips to help your child’s eyesight

With the rise of digital gadgets and a tendency towards fewer outdoor adventures, myopia, or nearsightedness, has become a growing concern for young people. Here are some every day tips to keep their eyes in top shape.

Outdoor adventures: Encourage playtime outdoors. Sunlight is a natural friend of good eyesight.

Be screen time savvy: Follow the 20-20-20 rule and limit screen time (every 20 minutes take a 20 second break and look at least 20 metres away). Eyes need breaks, just like the rest of us.

Light it right: Well-lit spaces are eye-friendly. Say no to screen glare in dim rooms.

Good habits: Teach your little one proper reading habits and remind them to blink away screen-induced dry eyes.

Check-ups matter: Regular eye checks are a must. Catch issues early and keep those eyes happy.

Balanced lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in eye-loving nutrients. Yum yum almonds and leafy greens!

Comfort counts: Maintain a comfy reading distance and proper lighting for all those close-up tasks.

Spread the word: Educate everyone – kids and adults alike –about the importance of eye health.

By weaving these tips into your daily routine, you’re not just helping to take steps to reduce the chances of myopia, you’re giving your child the gift of clear vision and a brighter future.

Call us today 09 426 6646 or book online at www.orewaoptics. co.nz for your child’s eye exam. We are passionate about improving your child’s vision!

We can’t wait to see you! Visit us at 10 Bakehouse Lane, Orewa.

Coastguard

Right place, right time

Two lives saved

There are a couple of words we try not to use within Coastguard circles when out on the water, as they seem to have the opposite effect when spoken out loud: Quiet Day!

A recent day on the water on Hibiscus Rescue 2 – our Sealegs Rescue Vessel based at Stanmore Bay – started with a simple tow of a boat out by Coal Mine Bay back to the boat ramp at Swann Beach. With the wind due to get stronger and not many people on the water we thought we were in for a quiet afternoon.

The crew decided to undertake some training around Motuora Island and then head back to Stanmore Bay taking a route closer to shore. Off the coast by Waiwera one of the crew spotted something in the water so they went to investigate. What they found was a small upturned dinghy

with two people clinging to it who’d been in the water for around 40 minutes. The crew quickly got them onto the rescue vessel and took them back to Waiwera.

Spotting these people in the water was amazing. If the recue vessel had been further away, they may not have seen them and with an outgoing tide the pair would have drifted further out. The decision to head back to base closer to shore was a very fortuitous one.

Back at Waiwera, the Sealegs vessel really showed its capabilities as the crew were able to drive out of the water at the boat ramp, drive the boat on the road to the rescued couple’s home and then assist them until a St John crew arrived. It’s not often that a Coastguard crew can assist people they have rescued back to the front door of their home!

After retrieving the dinghy and other belongings the crew headed back to base. Later that evening a crew member returned the personal belongings to the couple and the dinghy was returned a couple of days later, when the crew were able to catch up with the couple in a less stressful way.

A crew member reflects on the day

This event made me feel so proud of myself as a trainee deckhand but also proud to be part of the crew, because we literally got to work and did what we are trained to do, save lives at sea. I was so grateful that our paths crossed that day. When asked if I'd run the personal belongings we found back to their home there was no question in my mind. I felt honoured, and if I was asked to help them more I would have. Because it's what we do.

As a Coastguard volunteer who is also a mum of keen young fisherman, it made me realise just how important being prepared is. A cell phone, which is what my boys use for close in coastal fishing, is next to useless if you are trying to stay afloat and keep it dry. A waterproof VHF is a worthwhile investment. Telling someone where you are going and having the right clothing and lifejacket are so essential to enjoying a safe day out on the water.

Dave Tilley, Mark Wadman and Justine Gager | Coastguard Hibiscus

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The loneliness epidemic

Are we becoming a detached global community?

Nearly one in four adults worldwide are lonely according to a 2023 Meta Gallup survey taken across 142 countries. The survey highlighted how loneliness and social isolation can seriously impact our physical and mental health and the well-being of our communities and society. The WHO Commission on Social Connection (2024–2026) addresses this issue, for all ages and cultures.

What defines being lonely?

Loneliness can be experienced when we find ourselves living in an unfamiliar environment.

Loneliness is grieving the loss of someone or missing the companionship of a pet.

Loneliness is felt when we are struggling with mental/physical/emotional health and think that no one understands us.

Loneliness can be the discomfort of attempting to act like others to fit in.

Loneliness happens when a significant relationship suddenly falls apart over a difference in opinion, values, religious or political views.

Loneliness can be most painful when we feel misunderstood, rejected, gaslit or ignored by people – especially if they are someone we have a close relationship with.

When we feel isolated or disconnected from others the feelings of loneliness can negatively influence our state of mind. If we recognise this happening, we can ask ourselves why we feel lonely and what we can do to change how we think and feel about the situation.

‘Curiosity is the balm for loneliness.’ Esther Peral

Esther is a relationship therapist who encourages people to view new and unfamiliar situations with curiosity. Being curious may mean meeting new people, learning a new skill or going to a place you’ve never been. Curiosity may feel

It’s important to know that being alone is not the same as being lonely. Solitude can be refreshing and energizing and for many people ‘alone time’ is an essential part of their self-care routine. To be comfortable in your own company and not feel lonely is a healthy state of mind.

Loneliness can be overcome but requires a conscious effort to change thought patterns about being alone. It may mean creating new ways of interacting with your world.

The impact of feeling lonely can be lessened with positive social connections and enjoyable activities. You could be the person who helps someone feel less isolated or detached from their community.

You could be the person who lessens someone’s loneliness today.

Trish Beauchamp | Life Coach & Counsellor

Taking a Hike

Stewart Island’s Rakiura

Stewart Island has been on my bucket list for a while, along with hiking another NZ Great Walk, the Rakiura Track. While planning a trip to visit our daughter in the South Island we decided there was no time like the present, so we booked accommodation and flights and headed off a week later, in early March.

Kicking off at 4.30am in Queenstown, we had a dark, rainy drive to Invercargill Airport, but in perfect timing the skies cleared and the views for our flight over Foveaux Strait were spectacular. After a short shuttle ride we arrived in time for morning tea at the seaside village of Oban, the hub of the island.

Locking our trip in last minute meant the doc huts were fully booked, so we opted to stay in town and condense the usual three days of hiking into two. We started at Port William both days, walking in alternative directions to cover the track’s official 32km. Disclaimer – it’s not for the committed multi-day hikers, skipping the hut stays, but it had to be done and we thoroughly enjoyed our pub dinners at the local hotel!

After a night of listening to howling wind and buckets of rain we were up early for our first day, grabbing a coffee from the cutest 70s vibe café Snuggery, followed by a scenic 25 minute ferry along the coast to Port William. From here we hiked back to town, a beautiful day through the bush along gravel paths and over swing bridges, with wild deer darting across our path. We stopped at Māori Bay for lunch, a tranquil spot where we came across sea lions and a few hardy hikers braving the southern water for a dip. The bird song was magnificent with fantails, tomtits, robins, bellbirds and more all joining in the chorus.

Day two started with the ferry to Port William again, but this time we headed inland. We had been warned about the infamous mud and it was there in abundance, slushy and challenging. It was slow going navigating around the outskirts of the bog, under branches, over fallen down trees and avoiding a full boot dunking. After five hours across it was a relief to arrive at North Arm on the opposite coast. The track was a lot easier from here, and more scenic walking along the estuary. We made it to Fern Gulley and the end of the track by 6pm, another 30 minutes walking and we were back at our accommodation. My apple watch clocked up 28km and we were glad to be done and dusted after a long day.

We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and I’d definitely go back for another visit. We squeezed in some Kiwi spotting which was a highlight, along with a trip to the conservation island Ulva. I left with a special momento, a bottle of locally brewed Third Island Gin – it would have been rude not to!

Carmen Bird | Carmen Bird Photography

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Parenting for positive self worth

Local course coming up

Parenting for Kim did not come easily, firstly in struggling with infertility and then adopting five amazing young women; the road has been filled with big ups and downs. Now a grandmother to three beautiful tamariki and married to David for 29 years, Kim has packed a wee bit in during her years of being a mum and now coach.

In her search for a model of therapy to support her growing practice, she came across TBRI® – Trust Based Relational Intervention® and was fortunate to train to become a TBRI® practitioner. This has led to running training workshops and coaching parents in this amazing attachment-based model.

The workshop she will be running in Ahutoetoe School, Milldale, in May is called Parenting for Positive Self Worth. It is highly practical and the beautiful thing about PPSW is it helps you to feel able to parent the way you always wanted to – authentically.

Plus, those tricky moments you have or the meltdowns you may be experiencing, become so much more manageable with TBRI. If you are feeling like you do not know how to shift the things in your whanau that you need to change – cannot get them off their devices, they are struggling at school – even getting them to school!

Or maybe the basics of bedtime routines and connecting respectfully are getting you down, come along for the four nights. Kim has much to share with you that genuinely changed her whanau for the better and will be a gamechanger for yours too.

It’s evidence based and with an understanding of the challenges we are all facing right now in raising children who know their worth. You will get to see straight away in using the tools what a difference this will make in your connection with your children.

This course is brought to you by the Silverdale Community Trust (SCT) with grateful support from the Auckland Foundation. SCT is enthusiastic about helping the Hibiscus Coast community to thrive.

It does the mahi to help the individuals living here build an even brighter future.

www.silverdale.org.nz

nights at 7pm 9, 16, 23 & 30 May

Kim Wyatt (3E Coaching)

Bowel cancer

Can we stop it?

Talking about your bowels and motions (poo!) can be embarrassing. But it can also save your life. New Zealand has one of the highest rates of bowel cancer in the world. With over eight patients diagnosed per day it is the second most common cancer diagnosed in NZ, and the second most common cause of cancer death.

Unfortunately, by the time it is diagnosed, over a quarter of cases are metastatic (cancer cells have spread throughout the body).

It is increasingly being diagnosed in younger people. In fact, over 30% of cases are diagnosed in people less than 60 years old.

So how can we change this?

If you notice persistent:

• changes in your normal toileting habits: frequency or consistency of bowel motions

• abdominal (stomach) pains

• cramping or bloating

• blood when you pass stools

These need to be investigated and checked out.

The additional difficulty with bowel cancer is that it may have none of these symptoms to start with. In up to half of all cases diagnosed, people will not notice any of these issues. This is where screening can be useful – a test taken when you have no symptoms at all to check for blood in the stool that you can’t see with the eye. In New Zealand, this is offered at age 60. However, I believe and support Bowel Cancer NZ’s view that this should be offered a lot younger, as it is in many countries including Australia and USA, where it starts at age 45.

This is because bowel cancer is a very preventable disease. Polyps (small warty outgrowths which are precursors to

colon cancer) can be seen and removed during a colonoscopy. In this way, a single colonoscopy can reduce your future chance of developing bowel cancer by over 90%. A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves placing a thin tube with a light and camera into the bowel where any issues can be identified.

At Waitemata Endoscopy, taking this proactive approach is easy. We accept GP, specialist, and self-referrals via our website. Come to talk to us or your GP to learn more.

We can offer appointments within 7 working days by matching you with the availability of our experienced specialists.

Dr Cameron Schauer | Gastroenterologist & Endoscopist, MBChB 2013, FRACP 2020

www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz

The Green Spot

New rules came into effect in February for kerbside recycling in order to standardise the system nationwide. This gives greater transparency on what is actually getting recycled and alleviates the confusion caused by different rules as you travel around the motu. Understandably though, there could be some initial confusion as we adjust to disposing of some packaging differently so let’s go over the details.

Items (empty and clean) that are accepted in your recycling bins are:

• glass bottles and jars

• paper and cardboard

• plastic bottles, trays, and containers (grades 1, 2 and 5 only)

• tin, steel and aluminium cans

Exclusions are:

• plastics 3, 4, 6 and 7

• three-dimensional items smaller than 50 mm at their widest point (such as caps, small cosmetic and spice containers) and two-dimensional items smaller than 100mm x 140mm

• aerosol cans

• liquid paperboard (such as tetrapaks)

• aluminium foil and trays

• items over 4 litres

• all lids

So, this means all lids, from bottle tops to ice cream container lids to pumps and triggers, can’t be accepted for kerbside recycling as they are too problematic for the sorting machinery. In order for lids

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on tins to be recycled, leave them semi attached. After rinsing the tin, push the lid inwards to secure it safely inside. Tethered lids on plastics such as berry punnets, are also fine, as well as dome shaped lids so long as they are grades 1, 2 or 5.

Many of these excluded items don’t necessarily have to go in landfill as there are drop-off centres and take back schemes available. The Whangaparāoa Community Recycling Centre is a great local site that will accept a lot of the excluded packaging. More information can be found at hibiscuscoastzerowaste.co.nz. Next month, I will share more about their services and other avenues for the disposal of excluded items but if you can’t wait, then check out the useful list and keyword search function at environment.govt.nz

Hayley Crawford | @trashtalkingmama

We believe that selling and buying a house or property can be stress-free and exciting when you have the right knowledge and insights, partnered with a supportive

sales system. As top local agents who know the Millwater/Silverdale area, know

market, and know how to get results, all while providing our clients with the

possible service, we offer a down-to-earth yet bespoke approach to real estate. We hope you'll find the next few pages provide some information and insights to help you make informed decisions about your next move. We welcome the opportunity to chat with you about your current and future property plans. So have a read and send us a message or call us any time. Jake & Jen.

YOUR SALE PRICE

pany, solicitor, builder and bathrooms, school zones, or nce company and invest time risk hurdles, a.k.a

All of these challenges could impact your buyer's ability to secure insurance and finance. Meaning they can't go ahead with buying your home no matter how much they love it.

"It's never been an issue for us." When it comes to light that there might be hurdles that could make insurance or finance hard for a buyer to obtain, most owners want to avoid the problem, often deferring to the position: "It was like that when we bought it, so why is it an issue now?". The challenge with this line of thinking is that finance and insurance requirements have changed markedly over recent years. What might not have concerned a bank when you bought the home, could now be a reason to deny finance approval, even if it might not seem like a big deal to you. Remember, banks and insurance companies are in the business of managing and reducing risk. They don't care if you've been in the home for 10 years and nothing has gone wrong with your unconsented deck, or that your roof isn't leaking even though the building inspector thinks it needs to be replaced. They only care about what could potentially happen in future, under a worse-case scenario.

We all hate spending money on things we can't see. Who wants to spend money sorting a title issue? Or chasing up your local council to issue a Code Compliance Certificate for work done by a previous owner? Who wants to spend money reinforcing piles under a house which have been performing fine for decades, but that a building inspector flags as being a design risk? It's frustrating spending time and money on things that don't materially improve your day-to-day enjoyment of a property. Most owners would understandably think: "Why spend money on lawyers when I need a new dishwasher?".

The key point to come back to here is risk. The risk to an owner who doesn't handle these issues upfront is that your sale falls over at the final hurdle. You might do all the hard work of finding a new home, getting your home ready to sell, putting up with viewings, finding the right buyer, and negotiating an acceptable price, only for your contract to crash because the buyer's bank gets spooked. Once one buyer pulls out, future buyers tend to get freaked out too, and all this concern can end up lowering your sale price. Removing hurdles before going on the market minimises risk. It gives buyers confidence to put their best foot forward and make an attractive offer. When you make it easy for buyers to offer, it's far more likely you will end up with multiple buyers in a competitive situation, which helps secure a premium sale price.

While removing risk hurdles doesn't offer much in a visual sense to show for your investment, doing this work upfront will positively impact your sale price and make your home far easier to sell. In our experience, the payoff is well worth the effort.

Thinking of selling?

Call us today and together we'll make a plan to secure the best possible price for your home. We would love the opportunity to meet with you and answer all your questions.

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Cooking Questions with Mark Lane

Your own personal chef

I have been cooking professionally for 39 years, both in New Zealand and internationally. My business, Culinary Lane Catering is based in Millwater, providing three and five course dinners in your home, out-catering and grazing tables. Now you can gain the benefit of my experience by emailing me your cooking questions.

Paige: How do you plan the menu for a dinner party. How do you decide what food to make?

Hi Paige, there are a lot of factors that go into planning dinner party menus, such as the weather, the occasion, your cooking ability, guest requirements, seasonal availability, is it plated or buffet style, how many guests, budget, and balance between courses.

Just say your menu is in summer, a 60th birthday celebration, you are a very good cook, 2 guests are gluten free and you’re doing a 3-course meal for 12 guests. Once you have that information, you can start planning your menu. Lighter style meals for summer, perhaps the birthday girl loves chicken and fish, you need an entrée, main and dessert (no gluten), meals need to be easy to plate for 12 guests and you don’t want to overspend. With this information you can write your menu ideas. I would cook what I feel comfortable with, within my ability and budget. Trial, error and success will make you a better cook and host, just remember the most important thing is spending time with family and friends and giving new things ago. The food is only one part of the experience. Enjoy!!

Mason: What cheeses do you use in a cheese sauce and do you have other seasonings you add to bring out the cheese flavour? Mine never taste cheesy enough.

Great question. Bechamel (white sauce) is one of the five classic

French mother sauces and cheese is one of the derivatives of Bechamel, which is mornay sauce.

The most common cheese is cheddar so for more flavour use a tasty or even a vintage depending on how cheesy you want it. My favourite cheese is half Gruyere (a little nutty) and half parmesan (a little sharp). You can also use Emmental or even goats’ cheese for extra flavour.

To be honest the cheese isn’t the most important flavour, having a good flavoured bechamel to begin with is. If you want to try making it classically, add a cloute to the milk first, which is a small onion with a few cloves stuck in it. Bring the milk slowly to just before boiling to impart the cloute’s flavour. Cook out the white roux (no colour) so it isn’t too floury, remove the cloute and slowly whisk in the milk in 3-4 lots. Add the cloute back and very slowly simmer for 30 minutes or until the floury flavour has gone, stirring often so it doesn’t catch. Add a good amount of salt and white pepper.

Other things you can add to enhance the flavour after the sauce is finished are, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire Sauce, garlic, freshly grated nutmeg, sweet or smoked paprika, fresh chopped herbs, lemon juice and cracked black pepper to name a few.

Mark Lane | Culinary Lane Catering www.culinarylane.co.nz | email culinarylane@gmail.com

Adulting can be hard when you’re new to it

Citizens Advice Bureau can help

Attention all rangatahi! We know that becoming an adult means facing lots of new challenges, and it’s good to have somewhere to go when you have a question or need some advice.

That’s where we come in. Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) can help you understand what your rights are. We help people with problems. It doesn’t matter what the issue is – whether it’s about employment, flatting, buying a car, getting your ID sorted or understanding your insurance – we’re here to help you.

CAB can give you information and advice and connect you with any specialist services you may need. We have heaps of information that we’re keen to share with you, so you’re empowered to deal with the world and get the most out of life as a young adult.

What’s awesome is that all CAB’s services are free – you don’t have to pay anything. Our help is also confidential and non-judgemental – you can talk openly and we’re there to listen and help.

You can ask us questions online via our website – cab.org.nz or send us a message and we'll get back to you. You can also contact us on our freephone number 0800 367 222, or pop in and see us (no appointment needed).

You don't have to be a New Zealand citizen or resident to get help from us. We're here for everyone. No matter who you are; if you need help and don’t know who to ask – ask us!

We have over 2,000 CAB volunteers around Aotearoa delivering our service of information and advice to the public. This means when you come to us for help, you get to speak with a real person if you want to.

Whangaparaoa

Introducing Hibiscus Coast Writers

Hibiscus Coast Writers, established in 1993 by three coastal friends who shared a passion for writing – Daphne Calderwood, Gloria Shirley and Pamela Bell – flourishes even stronger today.

The group is an eclectic bunch of mutually supportive writers who love to write and who offer a supportive, non-judgmental environment for writers to learn and grow. From the beginning the group has been all about writing, learning about writing, sharing knowledge and having fun. The diverse membership includes established authors and those new to creative writing.

The Hibiscus Coast Writers robust program includes workshops and guest speakers throughout the year followed by writing competitions, presented and judged by acclaimed authors. A varied range of genres, including children’s writing, poetry, Flash Fiction, young adult, thriller, crime and mystery, fact-based fictional writing, script writing, memoir, non-fiction and fantasy writing is covered.

Annually, the club publishes the first three winning stories from

each competition in a booklet called Talents.

Award-winning author Tessa Duder is the club’s Patron. With over fifty published works for adults and children, Tessa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the club.

The club meets on the second Saturday of each month except for January at 1pm in the Pohutakawa Room at Whangaparaoa Library.

This is a warm and friendly group open to everyone.

If this sounds like you, please contact us at info@hibiscuscoastwriters.org

Lorraine Brockbank | President, Hibiscus Coast Writers

From our May issue, a new feature called The Fiction Spot will present pieces of short fiction written by members of Hibiscus Coast Writers.

By the Skin of My Teeth

Brenda Bardsley's journey from trauma to triumph

Local Hibiscus Coast resident and keen writer Brenda Bardsley is currently preparing to relaunch her touching autobiography By the Skin of My Teeth. In her book, Bardsley invites readers into her world, to embark on a deeply personal odyssey of resilience, healing and self-discovery.

Bardsley's narrative is a tapestry woven from threads of triumph and tribulation, each strand bearing the weight of a lifetime's worth of experiences. From the shadows of childhood abuse to the tumultuous terrain of mental health struggles, her journey has been one marked by hardship and heartache. Yet, it is precisely in the centre of hardship that Bardsley discovered the transformative power of resilience, something that would propel her towards a path of healing and growth.

At the heart of her autobiography is Bardsley's unwavering commitment to honesty and authenticity. Her words resonate with a rawness that is both

captivating and cathartic. Through the lens of her own experiences with bipolar disorder and six years of intensive therapy, Bardsley illuminates the complexities of mental health with a clarity that is as enlightening as it is empathetic.

For Bardsley, the decision to share her story with the world was not merely an act of catharsis, but a deeply felt calling to bear witness to the struggles and triumphs of the human spirit, and to offer a beacon of hope to those navigating similar waters. With each page she imparts invaluable wisdom gleaned from the depths of her own journey, offering readers the view of one path to self-discovery and selfacceptance. She has written her story with the intention of showing others that recovery is always possible, hoping her own story may inspire those who need it the most. In summary, Brenda is pretty awesome.

By the Skin of My Teeth is more than just a book—rather a testament to the indomitable strength of the

human spirit, and a testament to the power of resilience. As Bardsley prepares to relaunch of her autobiography later this year, she remains steadfast in her commitment to sharing her story and her message with the world. ‘It is a fundamental birthright to be loved unconditionally’ she says.

Through her words, Brenda reminds us that no matter how stormy the seas may be, there is always a light to guide us home.

For anyone wanting a physical copy of the original publication, these are available for $25 by emailing laureenhagan7@gmail. com. We wish Brenda all the best with the relaunch later this year.

Madison Derbyshire-Smith | Features Contributor

Trustees liability under the Health and Safety at Work Act

In a recent decision, the High Court clarified that trustees can be held collectively liable under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), potentially exposing trustees to higher penalties.

In 2020, a child was fatally injured during an incident with a backing gate on a farm owned by a Trust. The Trust had contracted a sharemilking company to carry out work on the farm. There is indication that concerns around the safety of the backing gate had been conveyed to the Trust by the sharemilker. The sharemilker was charged by WorkSafe for failing to comply with its obligations under the HSWA, and the sharemilker plead guilty.

The question then arose whether the Trust (or the three trustees collectively) were also able to be prosecuted. The key point of law in question was did the Trust (or the trustees collectively) fall within the definition of ‘person’ under the HSWA, which includes ‘a body of persons, whether corporate or unincorporate’. Traditionally, a Trust is not considered a separate legal person, unlike a company.

This question of law was important as if the Trust, or the trustees as a group, could be considered a ‘person’ under the

HSWA, then this opened up the Trust/the trustees to potentially greater fines than they would have faced if the three trustees were charged individually. Ultimately, Harvey J found that a Trust is not a ‘person’ under the HSWA, but the trustees as a collective can be.

This decision is significant for trustees of a Trust that operates a business, or perhaps even owns land on which a business operates (such as commercial leasing), as their potential exposure under the HSWA is greater. Trustees will need to carefully consider whether they are meeting their health and safety obligations in order to prevent potential liability.

We understand that an appeal of this decision may be considered, and accordingly this area of law is developing.

Morgan Sharp | Solicitor

Simpson Western North

Note: This article is published for general information purposes and should not be relied upon as legal advice. For advice specific to your legal issues, please engage a lawyer directly.

Image by Freepik

Bucket List Travel

Get away to Niue

With winter just around the corner, Niue is a great option for a tropical getaway. Serviced by Air New Zealand twice a week, Niue is a quick 3½ hour flight from Auckland, which means lots of stay options ranging from three to fourteen nights.

A wide range of accommodation options are available. The clifftop Scenic Matavai Resort has great facilities including two swimming pools, a full-service restaurant and bar and beautiful modern rooms with balconies overlooking the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean – they also offer inclusive holiday packages. Other options are self-contained and either part of small and personal complexes or there are also standalone holiday homes for rent, with all budget ranges and group sizes catered for.

Niue is like one huge resort with endless things to do. As a visitor you have a choice of small private beaches, lagoons and swimming caves where the likelihood of someone disturbing you is almost nil – they’re also great for snorkeling with each one offering a totally different experience.

Cave systems and walks for all ages and fitness levels can be found all over the Island and explored with ease via signposted tracks. Many of these swimming and walking areas also have well-maintained showers and toilets.

As the world’s largest raised coral atoll, Niue also has a spectacular

reef which drops to deep ocean just metres from shore – you can start game fishing the moment you hit the water chasing the big ones if that’s your thing!

With up to 80 metres of visibility – the clearest in the Pacific – the local dive operator offers a range of scuba diving and training options and runs daily snorkel tours outside of the reef, often swimming with Niue's resident spinner dolphins and even humpback whales in season (July to October).

Niue uses the New Zealand dollar, so no exchange rate calculations are required to manage your holiday budget, and most businesses accept credit cards and Eftpos. The night life is limited, but given Niue is also the world’s only Dark Sky Nation, you can relax watching the stars and enjoy the serenity.

They say you arrive as a visitor and leave as a friend in this place, having met your share of the 1500 residents by the end of your holiday. So, if you are an active family looking for a holiday with a difference Niue could be the place for you. Warm, safe and with no traffic jams or queues, Niue is the way life used to be.

For packages options contact the team at Bucket List Travel.

Michelle | Bucket List Travel, Red Beach info@bucketlisttravel.co.nz

For some standing out is important and others run for the hills, not for everyone.

Standing out in business is different. For the majority, getting noticed is a key priority, but yelling things people have heard before won’t get through. They switch off. People want stories that make them change the way they think, true ones are most engaging. Businesses that say and do real things no one else can will get people talking.

Look for your unique selling point/ proposition (USP), but truly stand out. Don’t settle for comfortable. Challenge yourself to think: what is one thing we do that no one else can? Now reframe this into something no one else says.

Avoid language such as we’re best or biggest. Start with we’re the only ones who do this.. in this way… or at all.

Now you have a start. Here’s what’s next.

Can we do this really well? Be honest. Reputation and sustainability relies on it. Do people want this? Sometimes the

reason no one else does it is because no one wants it.

Can we make money or grow from this? It has to be worth doing.

Does this excite you? Hard work is coming. This driver will keep you energised.

Can you say what you do in roughly six words? Write it over. Start long, cut, refine and simplify.

Can your staff, suppliers, family and customers understand it? Success can only come if you don’t have to give a long winded explanation for it to make sense. Sure, there’s follow-up information for greater understanding of this new thing, but if they’re still baffled after 30 seconds it isn’t right.

Can you excite others with it? Test the elevator/BBQ speech. ‘Hi, I’m a brand strategist.’ Yawn! Or... ‘Hi, I reveal the truth in businesses… I work with the key people within a business to find their USP and then show them how to reveal it to better customers.’

Now before you start promoting, try to invent a new category. If it’s crowded in your current category, position yourself away where there’s no competition yet. Or at least tell your story about how you are the only…

Start with a crystal clear focus on your USP when you tell your story. Follow these steps and join us up here. The view is clearer.

Chris Norris – Truth Seeker

Cert. MKTG | MCC | Cert. Typography

Former Chairman of Business Whangaparaoa and Board Member for Silverdale Business. He is also a mentor with the Business Mentors Programme at MBIE. Now running a locally focussed branding business. Allbrand.co.nz – Revealing the truth in businesses. If you are passionate about something you already have a true story. Get in touch to seek it: Chris@allbrand.co.nz

People get into their vocations in different ways – some by choice, some by accident, some by coincidence. My situation is no different. Having initially started as a forester with the NZ Forest Service, eventually rising to company secretary of the NZ Forestry Corporation group of companies, I changed direction after the State’s forests were sold off in the 1990s. Then followed a series of chief executive roles at the Cement & Concrete Association of NZ, Federated Farmers of NZ and the Motel Association of NZ, as well as owning and operating my own

business – Theo’s Greek Taverna – while living in Wellington.

After moving to Auckland in 2005 I freelanced in several consultancy roles before forming UProtectNZ Insurance Service with my wife Cristina. This was an excellent platform to continue our commitment to provide help for people and the wider community in the same way I have done for many years, whether leading national conservation campaigns, serving on recreational committees and councils, and – more recently – helping businesses grow through The Networking Group, or chairing the Silverdale Business Association during its drive to successfully establish the Silverdale Business Improvement District. UProtectNZ has provided a great platform to help people by providing quality insurance advice and creating security and peace of mind for individuals, families and their businesses.

Supporting our community has been a major driver for us. Being the founder and organiser of the annual Greek Extravaganza fundraiser for Harbour Hospice since 2017, under the auspices of the Rotary Club of Orewa-Millwater, it’s been incredibly satisfying to have raised $137,525 over that time for this amazing community service.

Now, being well past the so-called ‘retirement age’, people ask me why I still do what I do. My answer is simple: for the pleasure from helping people. Even as I write this article, presently in Motueka on a South Island break, I remain fully accessible and committed to helping my clients, whether in lodging a medical claim for them, clarifying any aspects of their policies or advocating for their interests in dealing with the insurer.

I love making my clients happy and derive a lot of pleasure from helping them.

It’s what I do!

Theo Simeonidis | UProtectNZ Insurance Services

Theo Simeonidis is a Financial Adviser, living and working in Millwater on the Hibiscus Coast, and specialising in personal and business insurances. Theo can be contacted on 027 248 9320 or email theo@uprotectnz.com. Any assistance is provided on a free, no-obligation basis. A public disclosure statement is available on the www.uprotectnz.com website.

Art Speak Join the April School Holiday Programme

At Estuary Arts Centre

Get ready for a super fun April school holiday programme happening at Estuary Arts Centre! With activities tailored for both kids and teens, there's something for everyone to explore and create.

Kids between the ages of 5 and 10 will enjoy a diverse range of activities including clay sculpting, painting, nature art, drawing, plaster printing and marbling. Meanwhile, teens aged 11 and older will explore the world of digital illustration, wheel throwing, clay sculpting and linocut. All our classes are led by talented instructors from the Estuary Arts Centre, ensuring a fun and enriching experience for all participants.

The cost of the day is $80, with all materials included for the activities. The programme will run on Tuesday 16, Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18, as well as Monday 22, Tuesday 23 and Wednesday 24 April. Kids' classes will be held from 9am to 3pm, while teens' classes will run from 10am to 2.30pm.

Ready to join in on the fun? Head over to www. estuaryarts.org and click on ART CLASSES to register. We also have a fantastic line up of adult classes in term two and over the weekends if you are working. Our ceramic/ clay classes are super popular and fill up fast but we are constantly finding new tutors and new classes to put in the mix.

And if you're already part of our Estuary Arts Centre members, you'll get a 10% discount on the fees! To learn more about becoming a member visit our website or our Art Centre.

Don't miss out on this chance to let your creativity shine and make some awesome memories with us. Come on over and let's have fun together!

The April line up of exhibitions includes the Hibiscus Painters group exhibition, Denice Symons in Gallery Two, Sarndra Cowley’s wonderful world of floral felting in Gallery three and Arina de Lange Moore’s ethereal paintings.

Open 7 days a week, onsite parking and a great little café. Contact us on 09 4265570 or visit www.estuaryarts.org

Kim Jennifer Boyd | Centre Manager

BAFA, PGCE, MA Arts Management, Dip Production Design/Sculpting

Central’s Tips

April 2024

The fruit and vegetable garden

• Sow broad beans this month. For a decent harvest, they need a bit of space, but the rewards are there when you taste them in spring….

• Ahead of autumn planting check the soil depth in raised beds and add plenty of compost or garden mix forking it into the existing soil

• Prune plum trees now after the harvest is finishedwinter pruning can encourage disease

• Celery should be planted – it is a great vegetable for flavouring during winter. Best to protect it from slugs and snails while establishing

• Big value planting - divide up a punnet of spring onions into individual plants and plant into the vegetable garden – there are heaps of spring onions in one punnet

• Sow carrots, kohlrabi and parsnips directly into the soil. Root vegetables are a mainstay for late winter cropping

Project for April

The rest of the garden

• Spray Aquaticus ‘Glow’ over shrubs and trees with scale - use on roses, citrus and bay trees – the oil helps weaken the hard shell of the scale

• Fertilise lawns with ProLawn Lawn Booster. The growth now will toughen the lawn before the cold weather begins and it’ll come out of winter in good shape

• Early spring flowering bulbs can go in the ground now – ranunculus, anemone and crocus are great for bright colour. Check the back of the packet for which way up to place the bulbs

• Trees and shrubs on sale – many nurseries and garden centres clear out trees now before the new season’s winter stock. It’s a great planting time, so grab some new additions for the garden!

• Lawn sowing time – Prolawn Tournament Blend seed is a good-looking hard-wearing lawn blend that germinates quickly during autumn

Get concreting while autumn offers up warm, dry weather. Raise the garden with concreted beds, make a seating area or construct the base for a shed or outdoor room. Use 5 x 40kg bags of cement to 1 cubic metre of Builder’s Mix.

centrallandscapes.co.nz

Mortgage Matters

Why are some banks willing to lend you more money than others?

When it comes to mortgages, not all banks are created equal.

Each bank has their own policy and assessment criteria that they use when assessing an application. These differences can have an impact on the maximum amount you can potentially borrow.

Some things that can impact on your borrowing ability include:

• the test rate used with their calculations (NB: these test rates are not published), for example, one bank has a test rate of 9.00%, whereas another bank has a test rate of 8.50%

• some banks use an Uncommitted Monthly Income (UMI) calculation which looks at how much you will have left over at the end of the month – one bank may have a UMI threshold of $200, whereas another bank may have a UMI threshold of $100

• with self-employed income, one bank may use the average of the last two financials years or they may only use income from the last financial year

• with bonus or overtime income, one bank may use this and another may not

• with rental income, the percentage of the actual gross rent that the bank will use can vary

• with boarder income, the maximum boarder income per week the bank will use can vary

To put this into a visual context, below is a quick indicative comparison between some of the current main lenders and the maximum borrowing available to the same couple based on same lending scenario (figures are for illustrative purposes only and will change based on different lenders and the borrowers’ personal circumstances).

A $945,000

B $985,000

C $905,000

D $960,000 E $998,000

If you’re dealing with Lender C as opposed to Lender E, you may be cutting yourself short by nearly $93,000. This could be the difference between securing the property you want or not.

If you’re considering purchasing a new property, and want to ensure you’re maximising your borrowing power and getting the best deal, we recommend you seek expert help from an experienced Mortgage Adviser.

Let’s chat! Contact Wayne Henry on 021 423 818 or email wayne@waynehenry.co.nz

Wayne & Karen Henry are Millwater locals. Wayne is a Financial Adviser specialising in mortgages and Karen supports him with all admin related work. Wayne’s Disclosure Statement is available free of charge on request or can be downloaded via website https://www.waynehenry.co.nz/ wayne-henry-mortgage-adviser/

Image by xb100 on Freepik

Silverdale & Districts Historical Society (Inc) & Silverdale Pioneer Village

Mother’s Day celebration

If you are starting to think about where to take your Mum for a treat on Mother’s Day next month, you might want to consider Silverdale Pioneer Village as they have something very special planned for the big day.

On Sunday, 12 May, the Silverdale Pioneer Village be offering traditional High Teas for a limited number of guests.

Each High Tea sitting will seat a maximum of 20 guests and there will be 4-5 sittings throughout the day, so this offer is available for a maximum of 100 guests.

You wil be able to book for a specific time during the day, just email or phone the village to make your reservation. Tickets are $25pp.

Help needed

The Silverdale Pioneer Village and Museum are in great need of more volunteers to help with gardening, maintenance of the buildings, housekeeping of the buildings and meeting and greeting visitors.

If you are able to help with any of these tasks, even for just a few hours a week, please pop into the Village any Saturday or

Sunday between 10am and 3pm.

The village is also open to the public every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 3pm. They are able to open for group visits from schools, retirement villages and social groups on weekdays, and are also accepting bookings for weddings, christenings and special functions.

email: pioneervillage1968@gmail.com

website: www.silverdalepioneervillage.com

P.O. Box 27 Orewa 0946 | Ph: (09) 426 8272 | 15 Wainui Road, Silverdale

Beauty Aspects

The skin microbiome

The latest buzzword in skin and skincare is microbiome. So what is it and what is its purpose? The skin microbiome plays crucial roles in maintaining skin health, protecting against pathogens and modulating the immune system. Human skin hosts a diverse array of microbes, collectively forming the skin microbiome. Understanding the interactions between the microbiome and the immune system can shed light on various skin conditions.

The skin microbiome comprises over 1000 species, with different regions of the skin harbouring distinct microbial communities. Factors such as temperature, humidity, sebaceous gland density and pH influence microbial diversity on the skin. Moist areas typically have high bacterial diversity, with Staphylococcus and Corynebacterium being common. Oily sites have lower diversity, dominated by Cutibacterium species, while dry areas exhibit the highest microbial diversity. Understanding these dynamics can inform research on skin disorders such

as dermatitis, alopecia, psoriasis and acne.

Our skins have a micro language cell to cell that gives bacteria the ability to respond to molecules called auto inducers. When bacteria respond our skin can see this as an aggressor and this can cause inflammation and an overreaction within the skin’s immune system.

Factors that harm your microbiome include:

• harsh ingredients found in some products we use on our skins

• UV radiation

• poor diet and lifestyle

• some medications and illness

• lack of sleep = lack of repair

• extreme temperatures

Factors that help with a healthy microbiome include:

• gut health is key

• eating a diverse rangeof whole foods and limiting processed foods

• limit alcohol and sugar , trans fats and refined carbohydrates

• drinking water (aids digestion)

• pre and probiotics

• using well formulated PH balanced products on your skin

• using skincare that contains dermabiotics (they will feed the beneficial bacteria by enhancing your skin’s immunity, balancing the microbiomes that in turn reduce inflammation

Amelia | Beauty Aspects

Image by katemangostar on Freepik

In the loop

New principal appointed for Orewa College

The Orewa College Board of Trustees has recently announced the appointment of Wiri Warriner as the new principal for the school. Mr Warriner is a past pupil of Orewa College and currently Deputy Principal at Whangaparaoa College. The board stated in their email to the school community that Mr Warriner is ‘… renowned for building strong sustaining relationships with staff, students, whānau and the wider community…,’ and stated ‘We believe that Wiri embodies the values and vision of Orewa College and will lead us towards continued success and growth.’

Coming up at Centrestage Theatre

Centrestage Theatre is a great asset to our community, both as a training ground for local talent and a source of quality entertainment close to home. Over the next few months they have some cracking performances coming up, including the musical The Drowsey Chaperone by Centrestage Youth Theatre, on this month from 20 to 27 April. Then in June Centrestage Theatre Company perform another of their Broadway Gals Daytime Concerts and several performances of Elvis (a musical review). If you’ve never been along to a show at Centrestage why not give it a go. You might be surprised at what you’ve been missing out on. To buy tickets visit www.centrestagetheatre. co.nz

New owners at The Coffee Mill

The lovely little suntrap of a café at the far end of the Millwater shops, The Coffee Mill, is now under new ownership. Priyanka and Nitish moved up from Tauranga looking for a new place they could call home and become part of a new community. They say they have found that in Silverdale. They are delighted to be the new owners of The Coffee Mill and look forward to providing the local community with their coffee fix and a great variety of food. Why not pop in and say ‘Hi’ next time you’re passing?

Glorious gardens galore

It was the British poet, Alfred Austin who so eloquently described the spiritual benefits of tending a garden.

‘The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul,’ he said.

It is a quote that rings true at The Botanic Silverdale where an experienced landscaping team have worked tirelessly to design, plant and nurture the village’s native and exotic gardens. Pathways meander through the village, and mature natives line the banks of a stream that borders The Clubhouse.

Villa residents can, if they wish, tend their own gardens, but a sizeable community garden is also under construction at The Botanic, including two 26m2 ‘Winter Gardenz’ glasshouses which are connected by a pergola.

‘There are 24 planter boxes in total and when viewed from above, they resemble a fern,’ says Michelle Pipping, a Millwater resident and a sales consultant at The Botanic.

Once completed, there will be bench seats, tables and chairs, and a BBQ area to support residents spending time together in the garden area, or hosting visiting friends and family.

The planter boxes and glasshouses will be surrounded by an edible garden of fruit trees including feijoa, citrus, persimmon, fig, apple, avocado, stone fruits, grapes and berries.

Resident Alan Ferguson is the Chairman of the Community Garden and says the area will foster a sense of companionship and connection, and will allow residents to share their experience and knowledge of growing fresh produce.

‘I definitely like to get my hands in the soil. I had a large garden before I moved to The Botanic and it provided us with fresh produce for most of the year. I’m really looking forward to watching the community garden take shape,’ he says.

Michelle says The Botanic’s landscaped gardens and commitment to creating a village ‘surrounded by nature’ are key reasons why many retirees have chosen to move to The Botanic.

‘I don’t think you can underestimate how beneficial it is to our wellbeing when we spend time outside and surrounded by nature. I know there are many residents who can’t wait to get stuck in and get planting.’

The gardening group is anticipating the first fresh produce will be harvested in Spring.

www.thebotanic.co.nz

What's On Hibiscus Coast

Hibiscus Coast

Scottish Country

Dance Club - Every Weds Silverdale Hall 7:00pm

Hibiscus Coast Artists Group - Meet on Mon

9.30am-1pm • Stanmore Bay Community Hall Whangaparoa • All Welcome

Shana 021 650 184

Hibiscus Coast Rock & Roll

Every Tues • W’poa Hall

7pm lessons • 8pm general dancing • Wear soft sole flat shoes • See website & Facebook

Dance Fitness ClassEvery Tues/Thurs evening

7-8pm • Kingsway Jnr Campus • First class FREE then $10 per session Richard 021 504084

Puhoi Celtic SessionsEvery 2nd Thurs • Orewa

North Primary School A sing-around/play-around event • Contact Alan alanthewag@outlook.com

Suicide Bereavement

Support – Last Mon of every month (Jan-Nov) 7-9pm

HBC Community House

Support for anyone who has lost a loved one

Susan 021 884 162

Orewa Garden Club - 2nd Thurs of month • Feb–Nov

12.30–3pm • St John’s Catholic Church Hall, Orewa • Visitors welcome

Valma 021 0634852

Hibiscus Coast Orchid Society - 2nd Sunday of the month • Feb–Dec 1-3pm

Masonic Lodge, Centreway Road, Orewa • Visitors welcome

Contact Bruce 09 427 5787

St Chad Market - 1st Sat of every month 8am-noon 117 Centreway Rd, Orewa Grant 021 0830 7743 or email chadorewa@gmail.com

Ukelele Classes - Every Thurs • St Andrew’s Church Hall • 107 Centreway Dr 1pm-2:15pm • $15 includes music

Avon Hansen-Beadle 021 421 109

Hibiscus Coast Concert Band - Every 2nd Thurs

All ages & abilities welcome hccb.org.nz Call 021 186 4599

Whangaparaoa Indoor Bowls Club - W’poa

School Hall • Mon 7pm

All ages, beginners welcome • coaching provided Maurice 027 392 0541

Hibiscus Coast Embroidery Guild - 2nd Weds 7-9pm & 4th Thurs 10am-noon

Hibiscus Coast Community House • Josie Slack- hibiscus. embroidery2022@gmail.com

Red Beach Combined Club 3rd Wed of every month Orewa Presbyterian Church 10am-12pm •Friendship Club for seniors • Morning tea, guest speakers & outings Colleen 021 112 3409

Hibiscus Coast Country Music Club - 1st Sun each month • Orewa Community Centre 1-4pm $5.00 • Everyone welcome Janet 0212367094

Bowls Orewa - Free coaching & introduction to lawn bowls every Friday 10am-12pm, bowls provided • Housie every Fri 12.30pm ($1000 jackpot) 214 Hibiscus H’way Ph 09 426 5937

Millwater parkrunEvery Sat 8am • See www.parkrun.co.nz/millwater for more details

HBC Grandparents Parenting Grandchildren

Monthly 1st Wed, Support Group • Maygrove Retirement Village • 10:30-1:30 free lunch

Weekly for Coffee Group each Wed 10:30 (various locations)

Donna 021 024 30064

HBC Senior Citizens Assn.

Inc. - meet for indoor bowls & cards Tues, indoor bowls & scrabble Thurs • Orewa

Community Hall • 12-4pm Membership $5/yr • Entry $2 Val Lincoln 09 9638242

Silverdale Ballroom Studio - Every Thurs Silverdale Hall at 7pm Adult & Improvers classes for beginners & social dancers 09 427 5542

Rotary Club of OrewaMillwater - 1st & 3rd Tues of every month 7pm at The Wade Tavern, 2 Tavern Rd Silverdale orc.secretary@outlook.com

Ladies Crafts GroupEvery school term Tues Orewa Community Church 235 HBC H’way • 9am-12pm

$2 for morning tea & craft creche provided

Silverdale Village Market - Every Sat 8am -1pm Silverdale St Silverdale

Hibiscus Coast MidWeek Badminton Club

Every Weds 9am-noon

All welcome • Orewa

Badminton Hall, Victor Eaves Park 021 0870 8118

Arts Group - Every school term Friday • Orewa

Community Church 235 HBC H’way • 9am-1pm • $2

incl. morning tea

Alan 021 039 7155

Line Dance Classesbeginners class Weds 10am-midday • Silverdale Hall • great way to exercise to music & make friends Sue 021 99 1717

Travel Club – with Bucket List Travel • 2nd Tues of every month (Feb-Nov) 9:45am–11am • Red Beach Surf-Lifesaving Club

Michelle 094261490

Hibiscus Coast Frienship Club – 4th Wed of the month at 10am • Bridge Club rooms, Edith Hopper Park, Manly Speakers/outings/luncheons together

Peter or Jeanne 09 4268675

Kiwi Club - 4th Sun of each month • Social

Dance 5-8pm • All welcome • Silverdale Hall

Hibiscus Petanque Club

Every Tues/Weds 9am12 & Sun 1pm • 214 HBC Highway • New players welcome, free coaching Colleen 021 1774820

10 pin Bowling for Seniors W’poa Bowling Centre, Arkles Bay • Looking for senior players to join club for league games • Mon & Fri 10am • Lots of fun and advice Brett 0210530905

Hibiscus Coast Quilters1st Tues of the month at 9.30am & 3rd Weds at 7.30pm W’poa Community Hall Beginners, experienced quilters & visitors welcome Jill 0211890866

Hibiscus Coast Literary Club 2nd Sat of the month 1pm

W’poa Library Workshops • by authors/writing competitions Friendly atmosphere Everyone is welcome Lorraine 02102680132

Lunchtime Toastmasters Every Fri 1-2pm

Orewa Library • Evening Toastmasters meets fortnightly Thurs orewa.toastmastersclubs.org/

Heartbeats Cardiac Survivors Support Group - 1st Tues of every month 10am • HBC Community House • Open to all heart event survivors & their families

Trent Lash 0220 606 199

Orewa Lions Club - 1st & 3rd Weds 6.30pm (7pm start) • St Chads Hall 117 Centreway Road, Orewa Wendy 021 841 125 orewalionsclub@gmail.com

Silverdale Naval Clubmeets the 3rd Sun of each month at HBC Community RSA at 15.00

Vince Sturmey 09 4285222

Your community local event / club here?

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Support Your Local

Fashion / Art / Gifts

Homewares

Carmen Bird Photography

021 310 320

Estuary Arts

09 426 5570

Food, Entertainment, Sport & Recreation

Orewa Surf Life Saving Club communityhub.co.nz

sKids Holiday Programme

021 773 301

Health & Well-Being, Fitness & Beauty

Beauty Aspects

021 0297 2587

Just Bliss Beauty 021 580 852

Kate Allen Aesthetics

09 421 0910

Skin Institute

09 426 0400 Home,

09 421 0024

Cypress

09 420 5485

Gatmans Mowers & More

0800 800 960

Move by design 021 180 0651

Shades Direct 0800 742 337

TK Revive Ltd 027 677 0747

Housing

9 House Construction 027 938 5182

Madison Park Homes 0800 696 234

Insurance / Finance Business Services

MTF Finance Silverdale

09 421 0335

UProtectNZ Insurance Services 027 248 9320

Wayne Henry Mortgages 0800WHENRY

Legal

Heathcote Legal 09 475 5916

Simpson Western North 09 421 0559

The Legal Team 09 959 0140

Local Government, Council & Community

Forrest Funeral Services 09 426 7950

Hibiscus Funeral Services 0800 420 470

Mark Mitchell 09 426 6215

Silverdale Church silverdalechurch.org.nz

Silverdale Community Trust andrew@silverdale.org.nz

Medical / Dental Optometrist

Orewa Optics

09 426 6646

Visique Hawkins Optometrist 09 426 5308

Waitemata Endoscopy 09 925 4449

Motoring / Boating Transport

First Auto Electrical 09 427 5748

Rodney Auto Centre 09 426 5016

Silverdale Car Services 09 421 1413

Silverdale Marine 09 426 5087

Networks, IT & Electronics

NZ Electronics Repair 0800 585 222

Printing Treehouse Print ryan@treehouseprint.co.nz

Real Estate

Dylan Turner at Ray White

Orewa 021 428 138

Jake Morgan at Harcourts 021 447 534

Jen Singleton at Harcourts 021 820 373

Roger Sumich at Ray White

Orewa 029 666 6666

Recycle

Alexander Scrap Metals 09 426 9150

Retirement Living

The Botanic 0508 268 264

Local Recipes

Chicken Chasseur (Hunters Chicken)

Ingredients

2 Tbsp olive oil more as needed

1½kg chicken thighs bone-in and skin on 500g flat mushrooms thickly sliced

2 Tbsp shallots finely diced

3 cloves garlic finely diced

½ cup white wine

1/3 cup brandy, cognac or marsala

2 Tbsp tomato paste

1 tin of chopped tomatoes

11/3 cup chicken stock

²/3 cup beef stock (or chicken)

½ Tbsp dried tarragon

1 bay leaf

½ Tbsp fresh or dried thyme

80ml cream (or Greek yogurt or sour cream)

Flour, sea salt and black pepper for coating

Method

Dredge/coat the chicken thighs in flour seasoned with sea salt and black pepper.

Add the olive oil to a large sauté pan over a medium to high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken skin side down and allow it to sear and brown nicely. Turn the thighs over and cook for another 2 minutes and remove from the pan.

Add the shallots, garlic and mushrooms to the pan and sauté for 5 minutes until the mushrooms are cooked. Don't let the garlic or shallots burn (add more oil if needed).

Deglaze the pan with the wine and marsala. Add the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, beef/chicken stock, bay leaf, thyme and tarragon to the pan. Bring to a boil, then add in the cream. Allow the mixture to cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Add the browned chicken thighs back to the pan, leaving the tops exposed. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 45 minutes in a pre-heated oven at 160°C on fan bake.

If the sauce isn't thick enough allow it to reduce a little longer. If the sauce is too thick add a little water.

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with mashed potatoes or your favourite sides.

Mark Lane | www.culinarylane.co.nz

For 3 & 5 course in-house lunches and dinners, out-catering, grazing tables and corporate catering.

Blood orange and olive oil cake

Ingredients

3 blood oranges (or normal oranges)

150g of sugar

½ a cup (118ml) buttermilk or plain yoghurt (liquid not thick)

3 large eggs

²/3 cup (158ml) extra virgin olive oil

220g of all-purpose flour

1 ½ tsp (8g) baking powder

¼ tsp baking soda

¼ tsp salt

Butter for greasing the cake tin

Baking paper for lining the base of the tin

Method

Preheat oven to 170ºC. Butter and line the base of a 20cm round cake tin.

Grate the zest from 2 oranges and place in a medium bowl with the sugar. Using the back of a spoon, rub the zest into the sugar until evenly distributed and a glorious orange colour.

Supreme two oranges: Using a sharp fruit paring knife, cut off the bottom and top of the orange so the fruit is exposed and the orange can stand upright on a cutting board. Cut away the peel and pith carefully following curve of fruit with your knife. Cut each

orange segment out of its connective membrane and then cut in half. Place the pieces or orange in a small bowl.

Cut the remaining orange in half and squeeze the juice into a measuring cup (about ¼ cup/60ml). Add the buttermilk or yogurt to the juice until you have ²/3 cup (158ml) of liquid altogether. Pour into the bowl with the sugar and whisk well, then whisk in the eggs and olive oil.

In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry ones (the mixture will be a little lumpy). Gently fold the orange pieces into the mixture.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a skewer inserted into centre comes out clean. Cool on a rack for 10 minutes, then unmould and cool to room temperature right-side up.

Serve with whipped cream, creme fraiche or yogurt as you prefer. This cake keeps very well and the taste deepens and improves with time.

Fiona Black

(Adapted from a Smitten Kitchen recipe)

Note: To make your own buttermilk, add a teaspoon or two of lemon juice to 120ml milk, stir and leave to ‘curdle’ for around 30 minutes.

What's on

at Orewa Library

Special events

Life without a car – transport options for seniors: Tuesday, 9 April from 10:30am to 12pm

Join Paddy Sullivan from Age Concern Rodney for this informative session. She will cover options that enable people to maintain independence and to do the things they enjoy when they are no longer able to drive.

Fall prevention workshop: Wednesday, 10 April at 10:30am

Falling over doesn’t have to be part of the aging process. Join our free fall prevention workshop run by Harbour Sport Community Strength & Balance Trainer Lou Bartlett to ensure you keep you independence.

Contact Orewa Library on 09 3770209 or email orewalib@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Intro to smartphones: Wednesday, 10 April from 1pm to 3pm

It doesn’t matter which brand of smartphone you have, this class will help you with the basic functions common to all smartphone types.

Register online at steppingup.co.nz or call into Ōrewa Library

School holiday programme

Ōrewa Surf Club talk: Tuesday, 16 April at 1pm

Water safety talk is being held in the Children’s Area at Ōrewa Library

Sock octopus craft session: Wednesday, 17 April from 2pm to 3pm

Jellyfish craft session: Friday, 19 April from 2pm to 3pm

Ocean diorama craft session: Tuesday 23 April from 2pm to 3pm

Regular programmes

Monthly

Book Chat: Wednesday, 3 April at 10.30am

Ōrewa Writers: Saturday, 20 April from 1.15pm to 3pm

Seed Savers: Wednesday, 17 April at 10.30am

Fortnightly

HBC Embroiderers Guild: Sunday, 14 and 28 April from 1pm to 3pm

Weekly adult programmes (will not run during school holidays)

BrainFit: Thursdays from 11.30am to 12.30pm

Craft group: Knitting, Thursdays at 9:30am

Weekly children’s programmes (will not run during school holidays)

Rhyme time: Tuesdays at 11am (for 18 months to 3-year-olds)

Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th April, 10am–3pm

The Botanic Silverdale is a brand new, modern retirement village offering a lifestyle rich in community and connection, and surrounded by nature and world class facilities.

VISIT OUR TEAM

The Botanic Show Home Apt. G09, Nikau Apartments

2 Evergreen Drive

The Botanic Silverdale, Auckland

Open for viewing by appointment 11am-3pm, Monday to Saturday

0508 268 264 (0508 BOTANIC) hello@thebotanic.co.nz thebotanic.co.nz