The SA issue 15

The

Issue number 015

June/July 2010

South African

CONNECTING SOUTH AFRICA AND NEW ZEALAND

Free

SA Music

Mango Groove -

see page 12

Victor Matfield Great South African Sportsmen see page 14

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The

South African

From the editor As we look back to our first issue published in March 2008, we reflect on how the magazine has grown and evolved in our endeavours to serve the SA ex-pat community.

Originally it was my brother, Ted and I who used to spend hours gathering information which we hoped our readers would enjoy and also find helpful.

With Norma coming on board in March 2009, we were able to get valuable input and help to broaden our topics and also increase our advertising revenue.

Our advertising rates are kept as affordable as possible as a way of assisting our advertisers to reach the SA community and also to “keep the ship afloat.” Without our valuable advertisers, we would not be able to print the magazine. So a big “thank you” to all of you, past and present, for your valuable contribution.

From the outset, we have endeavoured to produce a high-quality magazine with topical, helpful editorial and attractive relevant advertising. Our desire is to produce something that will not only connect with the vision of our readers but also induce a sense of pride in what we are doing.

We think of ourselves as a ‘community magazine’ and often we have short biographies on our advertisers, as a way of ‘introducing’ the people and personalities behind the businesses doing the advertising. In this way, our readers can connect and identify with the personal circumstances of the advertiser and can more easily build a rapport with them, and ultimately, do business with them, which is the whole idea!

We have found our magazine to be steadily growing in popularity and circulation.

People read the magazine and then pass them on to their friends. A lot of our readers are saying that they have been genuinely helped by the quality and content of our editorials.

Our advertisers give them contacts of key people in business which helps them in their buying decisions of goods and services.

All in all, our aim is to connect South Africans in New Zealand and we are very proud of our contribution towards making the immigration process and the settling-in period smoother and more informed.

Those of us who have been in this beautiful country longer and have our permanentresidence, it’s our way of ‘giving back’ to our fellow citizens, with encouragement, wise words and empathy. We are all very grateful to have the opportunity to call New Zealand home.

We look forward to our continued growth and ask the greater SA Community to become more involved in whatever capacity they can.

If anyone feels they have an editorial suggestion which would help our readers, we invite you to get in touch with us.

The

South African EDITORS

Peter Woodberg e-mail: jepwood@xtra.co.nz mob: 0274 520 794

Ted Woodberg e-mail: ted.samag@gmail.com mob: 021 027 03011

ADVERTISING

Norma Vaz norma.samag@xtra.co.nz mob: 021 043 7342

Postal Address The South African, P.O.Box 300-155, Albany. AUCKLAND 0752

CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS The South African Social Group – Richard Pearce Mob: 0275 357535 e-mail: r.pearce2@barfoot.co.nz Die Afrikaanse Klub – Thys Oosthuizen E-mail: die.afrikaanse.klub@clear.net.nz THE SOUTH AFRICAN HIGH COMMISSION, WELLINGTON Tel: 04 815 8484 level 7, State Insurance Tower. 1 Willis St.

Front cover: “Evening Rose Baobab” by SA artist Errol Norbury Mission Statement “The South African Magazine shall provide current, high quality, relevant editorial on subjects relating to the links between South Africa and New Zealand. It shall be the vehicle for SA immigrants living in NZ to integrate socially with their own community and to advertise their products and services.”

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All rights reserved “The South African” is subject to copyright in its entirety. The contents may not be reproduced in any form, either in whole or in part without the consent of the Editor. Opinions expressed in the magazine are those of its contributors and not necessarily those of the Editor. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the Editor assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences of reliance on this publication.

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The SA issue15.indd 2

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The

South African

QUAY LAW LEGAL UPDATE

Advertorial

by Ian Mellett of Quay Law Solicitor

Ian Mellett

In this issue Ian explains how family trusts are set up and why they are necessary

Why should a Lawyer set-up your trust?

T

rusts have become an increasingly popular way of structuring one’s affairs. Having said this, you need to ensure that your trust is established correctly.

It is advisable that you obtain the necessary legal advice before setting up a trust. The documentation associated with transferring your assets to the trust must contain appropriate clauses to ensure that full protection occurs, and your lawyer will be able to address this aspect for you.

Aside from the creation of your trust, it is important for those intending to use a trust to have clarity on the legal relationships and obligations involved.

There effectively are three groups of parties, namely the settlors, trustees and beneficiaries. The settlors are the persons who set up and transfer assets to the Trust. The trustees are the legal owners of the trust assets and have a fiduciary obligation to administer the assets on behalf of and in the best interests of the beneficiaries, who are the beneficial owners.

How could a trust structure possibly be of benefit to you and your family?

• Agreement for Sale and Purchase • Deed of Indemnity.

• Memorandum of Wishes.

It is also recommended that you update your Wills at the same time to ensure consistency with the trust structure.

Planning for your family’s future is important. Trusts have proven to be an invaluable mechanism in achieving this goal.

For the most professional and complete advice on such matters contact:Ian Mellett of Quay Law Solicitors: Tel – 09-523 2408. e-mail: ian.mellett@quaylaw.co.nz Ian Mellett BComm LLB H Dip Tax is a Barrister and Solicitor at Quay Law in Remuera, Auckland. Quay Law provides services in Wills and Estate administration, Estate Planning, Trusts and Asset Protection, Relationship Property, as well as Conveyancing, Commercial, Immigration and other areas of law. (www.quaylaw. co.nz) The Quay Law team update a Legal Blog regularly. For more informative legal hints and articles please visit our blog www.ianmellett.wordpress.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

There are a number of reasons why a trust structure could be advantageous: • Protection of core family assets for present and future generations.

• Protection from business creditors.

• Protection of particular beneficiaries.

• Protection from matrimonial property claims and de facto claims.

• Protection against possible income tax consequences and future taxes.

• Protection against the likely consequences of inflation.

• I ncidental benefits in relation to means testing and rest home subsidies.

The prime purpose of the trust would be to protect core family assets which you have or will build up for the benefit of yourself, your spouse, children and grandchildren but at the same time ensuring that you have the use and access to trust funds during your lifetime without interference from others. Transferring assets into your trust is prudent in the sense that you are able to cap the value, and any future increase in value of the assets after the date of transfer to the trust is treated as an increase in the hands of the trustees.

Transfer of Assets to Trust Once the trust has been established, your property and/or other assets could be purchased by the trustees at market value (supported by valuation).

The purchase price is left owing to you as a debt back from the trust. This debt is then reduced under a gifting programme which involves you making annual gifts to the trustees (currently $27,000 per annum each).

Legal Documents The following legal documents are required for the establishment of a trust: • Trust Deed • Trustees Resolution.

• Deed of Acknowledgment of Debt.

• Deeds of Forgiveness of Debt.

• Gift Statements.

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24/5/10 11:18:35 AM

The

South African SOUTH AFRICAN ARTISTS

Errol Norbury “Master portrayer of the African bushveld”

W

e continue with our popular series on the life and times of South African artists whose work we display on our front covers. This issue we depict Errol’s incredible interpretation of the African Baobab tree against a glorious sunset.

Showing talent very early in his life, Errol Norbury was coached by private tutors from the age of ten. After his matriculation he studied commercial art and illustration at the University of the Witwatersrand.

On graduation, Errol entered the very competitive world of illustration and freelance artwork for advertising agencies and public relations companies. He rapidly tired of completing projects to particular briefs only to be told that the briefs were wrong or “the client changed his mind”.

Since 1972 Errol has concentrated on fine art – particularly in oils. His choice of subject matter is wide and varied – seascapes, still lives, aircraft, landscapes and of course, wild life and his beloved bushveld scenes.

Errol prefers to work on his own and really study his subject well before painting a scene. He bought a farm in Northern South Africa so he could study the bushveld, wildlife and his beloved Baobab (the upside down tree) at first hand. He has developed his own recognisable style and it is this that identifies him and his work to his growing following of fans, both within South Africa and overseas.

Errol’s paintings depicting the Western Cape Winelands capture the

Errol Norbury

beauty of this mountainous region with vivid detail and clarity of his palette.

Refusing to work from anything other than his own reference material, Errol displays a rare dedication to his profession, acknowledged by the many European collectors of his work that return to South Africa year after year to purchase his works.

In 1981 Errol undertook his first overseas tour to Europe and the U.S.A. He exhibited in El Paso, Texas, in 1981 and 1982 and thereafter in Belgium and England. He had complete sell-outs at his exhibitions.

Later exhibitions include: Gallery on the Side, Fourways, Sandton – 2004 Kalk Bay Gallery - 2005 Vineyard Gallery, Claremont - 2006 Vineyard Gallery Franschhoek – 2007 Errol’s painting of the ‘HMS’ was presented to Her Royal Highness, the Duchess of Kent, in April 1999. The painting is now on permanent display at the Maritime Museum in Greenwich, London.

Many of Errol’s works are on permanent display in various banks, hotels and international companies around the globe.

Over and above the exclusive representation within South Africa by Fine Art Portfolio, Errol’s work is now sold in major galleries abroad in London, Brussels and Holland where prices are often five times the rand price in South Africa.

Visit our website to view our collection of over 4000 original artworks.

Worldwide shipping gladly arranged. info@fineartportfolio.co.za | www.fineartportfolio.co.za

Mike Hackner Architects Ph. 09- 580 1914 mobile : 021-459 110 Email: mike@hackner.co.nz Website: www.hackner.co.nz

90mm x 132mm AD The SA issue15.indd 4

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11/3/10, 8:17 AM 24/5/10 11:18:49 AM

The

South African INTRODUCING BARRY MOODIE

“THE MERCEDES-BENZ MAESTRO�

Slap bang in the middle of Glenfield’s CARWORLD you will find a huge showroom full of Mercs.

Barry Moodie

During our interview Barry was affable and frank about his career which has always been in sales and marketing. Before he arrived here in 2000 from South Africa he ran a very successful sports and nutrition retail and wholesaling company in the old country.

Being single, Barry was able to find a job anywhere in NZ, and he did his traveling across the country in a Nissan. He grew familiar with the makes and models of this Japanese import and so his career in marketing vehicles began when he joined a company selling Nissans.

But his heart was always with Mercedes-Benz because he was surrounded by them during his boyhood. The family car was always a Mercedes Benz, and this led Barry to join the Coutts franchise in Glenfield in 2002 as a vehicle rep.

He quickly worked his way through the ranks and became branch manager in 2008.

Barry recounts some hilarious moments that he experienced both as a rep and a manager at Coutt’s. As a rep he will never forget the newly immigrated Asian family who took him for a test drive in one of the most expensive models on the floor. Instead of the normal “trip around the block� Barry spent hour upon frustrating hour sitting in the back seat while the family drove the length and breadth of Auckland shopping for a new home! When they discovered their dream house, Barry had to step out of the vehicle and wait patiently on the driveway while they drove it into the garage to see if it was a good fit!

After he became a manager he had a stream of “rookie reps� who worked for him that often quite innocently became the butt of many showroom jokes.

He recalls one particular rep who took a beautiful blonde in an expensive dress for a test drive in a soft top Mercedes-Benz. An hour before they departed, a heavy downpour of rain had filled the canvas top with water. When they returned to the showroom parking they both got out of the vehicle and the rep banged his passenger door, sending a shower of rainwater onto the

hapless blonde, completely ruining her dress!

Needless to say, no sale was made!

Barry’s hobby as a young man in South Africa has always been moto-cross, and he told me that just prior to writing his matriculation examinations he had a serious motor biking accident, which landed him in hospital. His parents managed to organize a special arrangement with the education authorities for him to write all six of his tests over a two day period. Barry ignored the stress and got stuck into his studies. His determination and resolve led to a successful outcome and he passed with flying colours. Today he has become less of a hell raiser and he settles for mountain biking as a week-end stress release past time.

Barry met his sweetheart Lisa here in Auckland and they are now the proud parents of a 20 month old son, who is keeping Lisa out of her full time normal career in physiotherapy. Once the toddler gets to school going age, she will resume her specialized position at Green Lane Hospital.

Coutts Mercedes-Benz is situated at 145 Diana Road, Glenfield, North Shore, Auckland.

Contact Barry on 021 994 678 for personalised service.

MBNZ 117/RWS/SA

T

he showroom is buzzing, full of customers and reps dodging reversing vehicles; but there is an air of control over the proceedings which is quite tangible.

Much like a well conducted orchestra. And the conductor of this particular orchestra is angular Barry Moodie, South African branch manager of the Coutts North Shore Mercedes Benz franchise.

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The SA issue15.indd 5

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The

South African

An evening with John Banks, Mayor for a Greater Auckland

O

n the 14th April, Mayor John Banks hosted an evening in the Auckland City Hall that he arranged specifically to meet and greet the South African community of New Zealand and express his appreciation for their contribution to New Zealand.

He welcomed us and went on to have discussions about issues like the Auckland Super City, and the possibility of South Africans becoming more involved in local council and public office.

The main pillars of John’s campaign message, according to his campaign advisor, Michelle Boag, is one of Opportunity, Prosperity and Security.

John recognises that South Africans are hard workers and are committed to their new life in New Zealand. He welcomes South Africans and wants to help them succeed.

Greetings to New Zealand’s South African Community!

John also suggested that the South African community host a public socialevent (in August), where South Africans can be invited to meet him in a informal setting and get the opportunity to meet him and discuss civic issues of mutual interest.

We also had the opportunity of meeting Dr. Don Brash, who also arrived later on in the meeting.

John recognizes that South Africans are role model leaders in the community and that New Zealand will substantially benefit from this.

John Banks says that he shares the ideals and values of our South African community. The SuperCity will embrace all the communities that make up a greater Auckland and of course South Africans are significant in all of this.

John says he wants to see this community of aspiration play a great role in this countries future… and not just rugby !

The Springboks play the All Blacks on Saturday July 10 at Eden Park.

This is the first time the two giants of World Rugby have played at Eden Park in nine years!

We would like to invite you to join us in the premier corporate lounge with the best seats in the stadium to enjoy an exciting evening of entertainment both on and off the field.

We have a top guest speaker from South Africa, a fantastic MC and musical performances for your enjoyment.

You will also have a sumptuous four course meal with all beverages included throughout the evening.

This is a great package to entertain clients, work colleagues or for any rugby lovers who want to enjoy the match in comfort and style.

Please call Simon Wilson 027 646 2233 or email swilson@edenpark.co.nz for more information

The SA issue15.indd 6

24/5/10 11:19:04 AM

The

South African Introducing‌..

The first amateur trans-tasman soccer competition!

T

hese soccer fanatics may have left their shores, but they certainly did not leave behind their passion for the beautiful game!

advertising your company, prizes for raffles or any other gesture to help achieve this goal. They will be organizing many events throughout the year including quiz nights, hypnotist’s shows and many more. You may be able to display your brands or products at these events.

For a lot of South Africans, sport is a way of life and for a handful of If you are keen to join the team or would be interested in sponsoring the team in expats living here in God’s own, an annual soccer challenge of immense any way, please contact Brad Taylor via email: bradley.t@vodavode.co.nz importance is on the cards.

The South African “Kiwis� have been thrown down a challenge from their “Ozzie� counterparts living across the ditch.

An annual event is being born that will pit ex-team mates against each other. These amateur, semi and professional football players once used to share glories amongst each other, but now, divided by the Tasman, they will pull together teams to fight for the Expat Challenge Trophy.

Most of the “Kiwis� team currently plays on the North Shore, but they are hoping to recruit more expats who used to play back in South Africa during the days when club soccer was so popular. They are looking to build a team that will be a force to be reckoned with and hope to win the inaugural challenge and then retain the trophy for years to come.

They are currently fund raising for this year’s challenge which is being hosted on the Gold Coast. A plea is going out for sponsorship of any kind, be it in the way of playing kit The ex-SA soccer team from NZ

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24/5/10 11:19:09 AM

The

South African

From counting sheep to counting golf balls! by: James Thompson, Accountant.

D

uring James Thompson’s Accounting Career he has done both….and he has jumped countries more than once!

In 1983 after 10 years of service in the Citizen force in South Africa I decided it was time to spread my wings and look across the seas for a new life. My wife, Karin, being a New Zealand citizen made the choice quite simple.

I filled in a 3 page permanent resident application, posted it off to Wellington and in 3 weeks had my Permanent Residence. How things have changed since then. We stayed for 5 years and just couldn’t settle down, so in 1989 we returned to South Africa. In those 5 years we met 2 South Africans living here compared to today where every second person you bump into is from South Africa.

My high school days were spent at Capricorn High School in Pietersburg, as it was called then, and after school I entered the banking industry where I remained for 11 years until moving to New Zealand. I spent time doing various jobs i.e. building houses, painting, working on sheep farms and general labour work which I totally enjoyed as it was not something one could easily do

in SA, but then I entered a Chartered Accountants firm and learnt how to count sheep.

On returning to SA in 1989 my career continued in the accounting field in various industries but my love for sport steered me to the sporting industry.

I worked with the Health and Racquet clubs and other independent gyms, importing gym and sports equipment and ended up working as an accountant for The Vodacom World of Golf in Woodmead which includes The Gary Player Golf Experience and Golf 4 All. There were approximately 10 000 - 11 000 members at the time and I remember listening to members coming in to resign membership sometimes up to 5 a day with the reason that they are immigrating to Australia or New Zealand. My thoughts would always be, “I will never go back”…well after coming to the conclusion eventually that there is no future for me and my family in South Africa we sold up and returned to NZ in November 2007 and are absolutely loving it this time around.

I have 2 sons, the oldest one, Daryl, is a very talented musician and lives in Sydney; my youngest, Victor, is with us in New Zealand and is in the IT business.

My accounting experience spans many years in the commercial sector and I believe I can contribute a substantial amount of knowledge and experience to any small business especially for those who are starting up in a new country and don’t need the additional frustration of figuring out the figures.

James Thompson can be contacted on Ph. 09. 475 9965 Mble: 021. 251 1026 E-Mail: thompson.james85@gmail.com

Tristan de Chalain MSc MB ChB FCS(SA) FRCSC FRACS

Specialist Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon Now consulting in Auckland, Tauranga and Pukekohe Immediate Past President New Zealand Foundation for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery NZACPS www.cosmeticsurgery.org.nz

The SA issue15.indd 8

24/5/10 3:11:58 PM

The

South African Introducing SA gynaecologist Bernie Benner

The doctor who loves Africa Once a year the light plane touches down in a remote corner of Tanzania in Africa and out steps our own Bernie Brenner, Auckland gynae, on his quest to help the impoverished clinics of the region.

I

n the dusty outback village of Arusha in Tanzania, beneath the towering peaks of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Bernie is probably regarded as a saint. They know exactly when to expect him and the villagers gather at the dilapidated third world airport to welcome their hero.

Bernie has been visiting Arusha for the past four years on an entirely voluntary basis, expecting no return but the love and appreciation of his patients. He partners up with resident doctor Jenny Wagener, who is also exAuckland, and who has now immigrated to Tanzania, serving full time as a missionary and surgeon at the Lutheran Hospital.

Dr Brenner hopes to help local doctors by teaching them hygienic and cost effective ways of performing surgery.

On his last trip he donated an ultrasound machine to the hospital and other important surgical items.

During his visits he assists many African women with their gynaecological problems and he still comes across cases where mothers who have been circumcised continue this rather primitive ritual with their own daughters. The circumcisions are often botched and Bernie has to attend to the subsequent complications which include treating the infections from unhygienic instruments used by the witchdoctors who perform the operations.

While in Tanzania he sees several cases of HIV, but the worst killer in Africa today is still Malaria. His main interest is in the management of incontinence and this is a common problem following earlier surgery for repair of fistulae which result from prolonged labour and rupture of the uterus and the development of holes from the bladder to the vagina.

Tanzania’s health system falls completely short of the sophisticated programme that exists in NZ, resulting in a drastic shortage of modern medical equipment. Over time, Dr Bernie hopes to redress the situation and bring relief to the hard pressed clinics of Arusha, Tanzania.

Dr Brenner teaching at Arusha Dr Bernie Brenner has been practicing as a gynaecologist on the North Shore of Auckland for 30 years. His practice address is 131 Shakespeare Road, Milford. Contact Dr Bernie on 09-486 0182 or pelvic-floor-clinic@clear.net.nz Source: North Shore Times. Editorial by Ted Woodberg.

Dr Bernie Brenner

MB BCh (Wits), FRCOG, FRANZCOG, MBA, M Phil, BA (UNISA)

Gynaecologist and Uro Gynaecologist

Specialising in: • Female Urinary Incontinence and Urodynamic Assessments • Minimally Invasive Surgery for Bladder Leaking • Menopause - Hormone replacement therapy • Colposcopy (the treatment of abnormal cervical cytology) including Laser • Office Hysteroscopy for diagnosis of menstrual problems • Gynaecological Ultrasound • Laporoscopic Surgery - for removal of Fibroids, Ovarian Cysts and Endometriosis Consulting rooms at 131 Shakespeare Road, Milford

For appointments Phone 486 0182 • Email: pelvic-floor-clinic@clear.net.nz Webpage: www.berniebrenner.co.nz

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24/5/10 11:19:24 AM

The

South African INTRODUCING COLIN ANGELO, NEW SA DENTIST AT

EAST COAST BAYS DENTAL by: Annelize & Colin Angelo

W

ith the uncommon surname of Angelo, I am often asked whether I am Italian .Far from it! I was born in Germiston and raised in Alberton. I matriculated at Afrikaans Hoër Seunskool in 1985 and went on to study dentistry at Tukkies (UP). I started my first dental practice in 1992 (also

the year I married Annelize) in Pretoria and as most other g r a d u at e s o f o u r time, also thought of working in the UK for a number of years.

Colin and Annelize Angelo

In January 2001 we took the plunge and moved to the UK with our 2 children (Lize and Rowan). We were quite fortunate that our best friends decided to make the move with us and we all left SA on the same flight.

However, we always thought of the UK as a short term project and sold the business in 2007. Our friends returned to SA and my brother, who has been living in Auckland for the past 9 years, convinced us to move to NZ. I started off working at a dental practice in the city centre and soon afterwards joined a well known practice on the North Shore (Willie Steenkamp, East Coast Bays Dental). Here we offer all general dental procedures, as well as Implants and oral surgery at very reasonable fees.

When not at work, which is not often, I am either next to the sports field supporting my kids or on the waters, trying to catch the big one!

East Coast Bays Dental, 758 East Coast Bays Rd. Browns Bay, Auckland Ph. 09. 478 1300. Email: ecbdental@gmail.com

introducing Robyn Hewitt and Gerry Kofoed

IMMIGRATION MEDICAL SERVICES LTD by: Robyn Hewitt

I

mmigration Medical Services Ltd (IMS) was the first medical clinic in Auckland to specialize solely in Immigration Medicals. The idea behind the clinic was to make the medical process for immigrants as convenient and efficient as possible.

Robyn Hewitt and Gerry Kofoed

Since opening their doors 9 years ago, Robyn and Gerry, co-directors of the clinic, have processed thousands of medicals for immigrants applying for student and work visas as well as permanent residency.

“The primary focus when we started the clinic”, says Robyn, “was to treat our patients with professionalism and respect while at the same time being sympathetic to their concerns and challenges – particularly those with English as a second language.”

“Because we have been doing this for so long we can assist patients through the often daunting medical questionnaires especially those with longstanding health issues. We also understand how expensive it is for people to emigrate so we have kept our prices as cost efficient as possible.

To this end we offer student and family discounts,” says Gerry.

We have seen an increase in the number of immigrating South African families over the last two years and have gained an excellent reputation amongst the community.

We welcome phone enquiries and our experienced staff will be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have surrounding the Immigration Medical process.

Our purpose built clinic has all facilities on site to process your medical application with ease. We have experienced staff comprising of Doctors, Nurses, Radiographers and phlebotomists. Our facilities include x-ray, blood tests, ECGs and access to a wide range of specialists throughout Auckland.

Immigration Medical Services ph. 09. 361 6536, Level 2. 202 Ponsonby Rd. Ponsonby. Auckland. Email : imed@xtra.co.nz

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25/5/10 9:34:57 AM

The

South African

FINCARE LTD, TORBAY TAKING CARE OF YOUR FINANCES!

Advertorial

by: Michelle De Wet

S

outh African Bernard de Wet, of Fincare, offers a professional financial service drawn from many years in the insurance and financial planning industries. Here is his story….

I grew up on a farm in the Western Transvaal and then moved to Pretoria to study. I married a local Pretoria girl and we settled down in Pretoria on a smallholding. We have four children. I first started working for Sanlam in May 1988 as a Financial Adviser and in March 1994 I started my own brokerage.

We enjoyed a good life in South Africa and could not understand why people were emigrating.

Our perception of the future in South Africa started changing after the last ANC conference in Polokwane in December 2007 and crime and corruption started coming closer to home, and when we were directly touched by crime we started the emigration process.

We decided to start an adventure in a new country with new opportunities and challenges. We also realised that a new country will have better prospects for the future of our children. And so we decided on New Zealand.

I sold my business in South Africa and started working at a brokerage firm in New Zealand. I have subsequently decided to start my own brokerage firm, Fincare Limited.

We love being in New Zealand, the long evenings on the beaches; the lovely environment; the sailboats; the bush areas; outdoor lifestyle; friendly people; barbecues on the beach and the coffee.

The Kiwi’s are friendly and warm people, we feel more welcome and at home in New Zealand than when we were in South Africa.

Our eldest daughter starts her studies in July in Dunedin and our 3 other children have settled in well at school. Our children are able to walk to friends and go out late at night and feel safe.

I look forward to building a new long lasting and successful and professional relationship with new clients. I have extensive experience in the insurance industry which dates back as far as 1988.

Our comprehensive range of services and products include wills and trusts; life and health insurance; income protection; critical illness; mortgage finance; vehicle and house contents insurance; reduction of ACC levies and the surrender of retirement annuities in South Africa due to the changes in immigration laws.

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11

The SA issue15.indd 11

24/5/10 11:19:30 AM

The

South African THE SOUTH AFRICAN MUSIC SCENE

Magical Mango Music The story of Mango Groove

by Ted Woodberg

“T

he pretty white girl with the long blonde hair gyrates and sings with a long-cabled mike in front of an ensemble of singers and musicians of mixed race, mainly African. Her voice is clear and gutsy but when she stops singing the air is pierced by the sound of the traditional penny whistle, an instrument as South African as the soil itself.”

The band is Mango Groove and the white girl is curvaceous Claire Johnston.

When this group first hit the music scene in the mid eighties the whole world stopped and listened. Here was something completely different. Ethnic African rhythm, or kwela (its proper Zulu name) was being expertly fused with jazz, swing, male acapella gospel, Jo’burg gumboot and a bit of modern pop.

This eclectic cauldron of musical genres put Mango Groove firmly on the international music map, catapulting the group onto the world music stage with amazing momentum.

They have enjoyed over 12 number one hits and received every conceivable South African music and video award as well as a number of global ones.

They have set new precedents for all SA artists, being the only SA group to completely sell out the Sun City Superbowl and the Standard Bank Arena 6 times each.

Some of their most prestigious achievements was the direct satellite link up to the Freddie Mercury Tribute show in London in 1992 to an estimated audience of a billion people; their performance in front of 200 000 people at the Paris “Rock Against Racism” concert and their performance at the renowned Montreux Jazz festival where the band received three encores.

They were also the only African band to be invited to perform at the “Celebrate Hong Kong ‘97” reunification concert where they played alongside Wet,Wet,Wet, Michael Learns to Rock and All-4-One. Besides the enigmatic Claire Johnston who provides the energy and the glamour, there are her back-up harmony vocalists Beulah Hashe, Marilyn Nokwe and Phumzile Ntuli; Sipho Bhengu on tenor saxophone, Banza Kgasoane on trumpet, Alan Lazar on keyboards, George Lewis on guitar, John Leyden on bass guitar, Mduduzi Magwaza on alto sax and penny whistle and Gavin Stevens on drums.

Mango Groove had an enormous impact on a country struggling to shake

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itself free of the shroud of Apartheid, and together with other ethnically mixed bands like Johnny Clegg and Savuka, they blazed a trail across Africa and the world. Doing world tours was not without its funny moments and in particular the band all remember a grueling cross-country Australian tour that crossed several time zones. An obviously tired and somewhat confused John Leyden got up on stage one night in front of an expectant Melbourne crowd and told them that he was happy to be in Sydney!

The face of Mango Groove will always be the tantalising Claire Johnston. She was born in Hertfordshire, UK and her parents brought her to SA when she was only 3. At age 10 she saw an ad in the paper for little girls to audition for the BrickhillBurke production of the Broadway smash hit musical Annie. Claire got the part of Tessie the Cry Baby and she had a wonderful time away from primary school while she toured around SA with the show to Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. Her career with the band started during her last year in high school in 1984 when she was only seventeen. At the time she was taking singing lessons with top impresario and producer Eve Boswell. Mango Groove telephoned Eve and asked for her “best” female singer……and the rest is history!

Besides her star-studded career with the band, Claire built up for herself an impressive portfolio of solo albums that reflected a slight departure from the big band sound, but her renditions retained her true love for African soul music.

During the late nineties she began singing the SA National Anthem at various international rugby events across the country. This association culminated in her collaborating with Jeff Maluleke to record and perform the official 2003 Rugby World Cup song “Together as One” for the “True Colours” worldwide commemorative album.

Many famous local and international stars have collaborated with Mango Groove over the years either in the production of their music or during actual stage performances.

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12

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The

South African

Their pivotal keyboard player, Alan Lazar, who co-wrote and co-produced the first three albums for the group, went on to become a highly successful composer and movie director in the US. Platinum producing SA recording stars like the late great Mahlatini and Sipho Gumede often shared the stage with the band. Another remarkable collaboration was the contribution by FOUR generations of Nokwe girls to the group. Founding member, Marilyn Nokwe together with her sister Tu, their mother Patty (who performed on the “Hometalk” album) and Avanda, Marilyn’s daughter, have all appeared live on stage with the band. And the fourth generation? Well, at a show in Cape Town last year Avanda sang on stage while pregnant with her beautiful daughter!

Mango Groove has no intention of going into retirement at this stage.

They are too popular! In 2006 they released a compilation album - “Moments Away: Love Songs and Lullabies” that also featured some new songs. In 2007 they announced a major tour of SA (the first in several years), the planned release of a new live DVD as well as the writing and pre-production of a brand new Mango Groove album, “Bang the Drum” which was released in 2009, receiving wide positive acclaim from the SA and international music press.

To Claire and the band, all we can say is thank you for almost thirty years of incredible entertainment and inspiration that will always be a strong part of our South African heritage. Well done, guys!

For more info on the band see www.mangogroove or www.clairejohnstonmangogroove.com.

13

The SA issue15.indd 13

24/5/10 11:19:42 AM

The

South African GREAT SOUTH AFRICAN SPORTSMEN

Victor Matfield Being bullish about his rugby!

by Ted Woodberg

‘S

uper lock’ Springbok and Super 14 Blue Bulls Rugby player Victor Matfield stands head and shoulders above his fellow team players at an amazing 6ft 6ins. His extraordinary height would have made him an excellent basket ball player, but his early roots drew him towards both rugby and cricket as his original sports of choice.

No-one can forget the incredible victory that the Springbok Rugby Team enjoyed at the 2007 Rugby World Cup. Everybody held their breath at the final game between the highly rated England team and the South Africans that had fought their way through the ranks to make it to the bitter end!

Playing expertly beside his captain, John Smit, Victor dominated the loose scrums with his rolling technique; pushing the scrums forward with his indomitable height and weight, gaining valuable ground for his team. He invariably won the majority of the throws that he took from team mate John as hooker in the line-out, because of his height that needed no help from the rest of the team players around him!

In the end, the ‘Bokke took home the World Cup and they stand as World Champions still today until the next big encounter in New Zealand in 2011.

At the 2007 competition, Victor was crowned International Rugby Board player of the Rugby World Cup and his speed around the field led former Australian coach, Eddie Jones to comment that he should be an Olympic sprinter instead!

More recently, Victor has become the hero captain of the stupendous “Bulls” in the Super 14 competition that has catapulted them to the top of the rankings in this Tri-nation event that is still to play itself out in the weeks to come.

His leadership skills have made him a legend in this year’s competition and we believe that he will be a force to be reckoned with in the 2011 Cup next year.

Victor Matfield was born in Pietersburg, Northern Transvaal in 1977 and during his high school years he played both cricket and rugby. After sustaining an injury that precluded him from playing cricket, he concentrated on rugby and went on to participate in the prestigious “Craven Week” competition for high schools that resulted in him being selected for two years in a row.

While still playing at high school, Victor was selected as lock for the Northern Transvaal senior provincial team.

He went on to study at the University of Pretoria where he played for the university’s under 21 side; however it did not take long before he was selected to play for the Blue Bulls under 21 side as well. After doing short stints with the Griquas and the Cats, Matfield had his debut with the Springbok side in June 2001 against Italy. In 2005 he made the top five short list for IRB World Player of the Year.

In early 2008 he decided to get some overseas experience so he played nine fixtures with French team Toulon before returning to South Africa and playing for the Bulls in the 2008 Super 14.

Victor is happily married to his wife of 7 years, Monja and they have two young daughters Jaime and Giselle.

Victor, we wish you all the best in your current Super 14 campaign with the Bulls. Let’s hope you take the cup home with you!

Source: www.victormatfield – Wikipedia.

14

The SA issue15.indd 14

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The

South African

Meet Estelle Slabbert of the Mairangi Bay Art Centre

by Ted Woodberg

T

ucked away in a cosy corner of Mairangi Bay with magnificent sea views is this tranquil art centre where anybody can try their hand at becoming a creative genius!

The South African Magazine highlighted this centre in a special article in their second issue, way back in April 2008. At that stage I hadn’t had the pleasure of meeting one of their top flight artists and teachers, Estelle Slabbert.

Estelle emigrated from South Africa in December 1996 with her husband Eugene, who is an architect. Just after she stepped off the ’plane she discovered the Mairangi Bay Art Centre and she has been one of their pivotal members ever since.

Estelle teaches art classes to primary school students and adults three days per week, leaving two valuable days in the week to concentrate on her painting. Currently she works in the acrylic medium, but her speciality has always been screen printing. Her style can best be described as Afro/Pacific ethnic, because she draws on the bright colours and stark designs that are so evident in African and Pacific Island themes.

Estelle doesn’t apologise for her Afrikaans ancestry, and every now and then during our interview she would break out with an Afrikaans exclamation that kept me quite amused.

She is an astute artistic judge and has been represented on several school judging panels, giving her opinion on the talents of young art students at schools right across Auckland. She chuckled when she described one particular judging session where she had to move away from teaching a class strait to the art gallery to present the winners of the North Shore College. Rushing from art class to address the audience she acquired unknowingly a huge blue paint stain on her skirt.

Estelle couldn’t understand why the audience was so distracted during her presentation of the results, but looking down she soon discovered the reason!

Estelle is best known for her “Ribbon of Goodwill” which she personally designed to represent the South African community here in New Zealand. The ribbon is exquisitely screen printed on satin and is displayed in the “Beehive” in the centre of Wellington, with all of the other ribbons, representing the other ethnic groups of people who live in New Zealand.

She is in the process of producing a stunning exhibition of her works, which will go on display soon at the centre.

It is obvious that her influence has affected her children, because her eldest son, Mir’o now 38 years old, is a real “chip off the old block” because

Estelle Slabbert at work

he is an Art Director at PC World.

Estelle, we wish you every success in the future and those wishing to partake in any of the art classes at the centre should contact Mairangi Bay Art Centre on 09- 478 3327.

The centre is situated at 20 Hastings Road, Mairangi Bay, North Shore, Auckland.

15

The SA issue15.indd 15

24/5/10 11:19:50 AM

The

South African

Jobs for immigrants getting harder

By Peter Woodberg, Director of North Shore Immigration Services

T

he Immigration department, politicians and the media all have different ideas about how the immigration process works.

The stories in the media; what takes place in the offices of Peter Woodberg Immigration NZ (INZ) and what Jonathan Coleman says should be taking place, often do not correlate.

For example, as a case in point, a new immigrant German baker is given a job offer to run a franchise bakery. He needs a work permit and an application is submitted to INZ through a licensed adviser. INZ query this work permit application based on the premise of “Kiwis First” which means that during this recession New Zealand should employ Kiwis before immigrants, notwithstanding the huge amounts of tax payer’s money that has been spent encouraging immigrants to come to New Zealand, rather than Australia or Canada. This is good policy if it is administered correctly.

A labour market check will have to be done to see that there are no bakers that are on the benefit before giving the German Baker his work permit. WINZ notify INZ that there are six bakers on the benefit and they should send them for interviews to the employer. On the given interview day only two out of the six arrive at the interview. One is a 24 year old who has very little bakery experience and is a baker’s assistant at best, but probably a kitchen hand. Not suitable. The next applicant is a baker who is 35 years old but who does not want to start work at 3am

and declines the job. When else is bread baked but in the early hours of the morning?

So here comes the dilemma. The employer still wants to take on the experienced German baker, WINZ has 6 bakers on their list but none of them are suitable or do not want to work under the baker’s conditions. This is a Catch 22 situation and is happening to hundreds of immigrants every day.

They are treated like the enemy and not as people who are generally hard working and effective contributors to the economy. Most immigrants leave their country of origin in order to have a better life and not to live on the dole or be supported by the community.

On a recent trip to Australia I read an article in the local newspaper on an idea by Tony Abbott (Leader of the opposition) who is advocating that people who are under the age of 30 and are offered work but refuse to take up the position wherever it is in the country should have their benefit cut or suspended.

The article quotes the case of a young 20 year old who used to collect supermarket trolleys and has now quit his job because his girlfriend is now pregnant. There are a number of offers for work in the small mining towns but he refuses this work saying it hurts his back.

Should he still be eligible to the dole?

If this concept was introduced in New Zealand we would not need fruit pickers to be imported each season but could use the local WINZ supported people to do this work. It would also help the qualified German baker not to have to compete with people who do not want to work that are on the dole.

What is needed here is an overhaul of the system so that it caters for hard-working immigrants who actually make a positive contribution to the economy and a more unsympathetic approach to people who abuse the unemployment benefits system and cause a drain on the limited financial resources of the state.

16

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The

South African

Photo by Charl Louw Photographer

Immigration service you can trust We specialise in all forms of Immigration from Student permits, Long term Business Visas, Family, Work Permits, Investor category, Permanent Residence.

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17

The SA issue15.indd 17

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The

South African

Carl Liebenberg of fifo Capital, says

Advertorial

“Come and get your working capital solutions from us!”

E

x –SA Carl Liebenberg came to NZ relatively late in his career. He says that he will miss the Highveld weather, the Carl Liebenberg crisp cold and dry winters, but he won’t miss the brown lawns, burnt by the winter frost.

Carl grew up in Florida on the West Rand of Johannesburg – so he is a real Transvaler. He does however confess that this loyalty gets a bit shaky when

it comes to sport. You get tired of supporting the losing side year after year, and it happened again this year. So ..”Go Stormers!”

He studied and completed his B.Com degree at the University of Johannesburg (then called RAU). The Auckland Park campus was still very new, the university very small, and even though everyone was studying different degrees, you still knew everyone, like one big happy family.

After leaving university he gained a lot of financial experience through working at audit firms, first KPMG and later a stint at Coopers & Lybrand. Wits Leasing, a small finance house where he was the financial controller, gave him good insights into discounted cash flow theory and the time value of money.

This was great hands on experience interacting closely with industries and their financial needs. A lengthy spell at Deutsche Bank in Sandton rounded off his SA career before immigrating to New Zealand.

He grabbed the opportunity to invest in a Fifo Capital franchise which draws on all of his previous financial experience. It is exciting and challenging to be in this field at this stage of the NZ economic and world economy cycle.

Carl can help businesses during these testing times with their cash flow needs by identifying options for working capital solutions. It is quite simple, minimal forms and information and your working capital facilities can get approved at no cost to your company. This will give you access to on demand working capital and you only get charged when you use the facility.

This personal service ensures that you are always in our focus and get full attention.

Call Carl now for a no obligation free cash flow assessment and build sound financial management strategies. Tel 09 948 1264: mob: 021 306 187.

18

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The

South African Advertorial

Riaan Prinsloo says:

Take a Toyota for a test drive today!

W

ith a chequered career from Casino accounting to real estate sales, South African born Riaan Prinsloo has found his niche in vehicle sales. You will find him on the showroom floor at Albany Toyota, North Shore, where he will greet you with a smile and a handshake. Here is his story…

Riaan was born in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa and lived in Graskop during his primary school years. Later his parents moved to Lichtenburg were he matriculated.

After school he joined the SA Air Force in Pretoria for 15 years and worked in the Finance Department. While in the Air force he married Bernadine and they had two children named Adrian and Dominique.

The constant hustle and bustle in Gauteng made them decide to move to the relative country solitude of Hillcrest in the rolling hills of Kwa-Zulu Natal were he worked at Sibaya Casino as an Assistant Accountant for 5 years.

After 5 years of gruelling month-end reports and deadlines, Riaan made a complete career change and decided to try his hand at real estate sales. He spent three years of successful residential property sales with Wakefield’s but Riaan and Bernadine eventually reached the point in their lives where they realised that South Africa would be a difficult place to raise their children, so they decided to immigrate to New Zealand.

They have been in NZ for 2 years now and they love the freedom and security that they have discovered in their new country. They received their

Riaan Prinsloo outside showroom

permanent residency on the 18th of March 2010 with much relief and joy and decided that it was an event worth celebrating!!! Currently they live in Orewa, N Shore, and Auckland and feel very much at home with surroundings that give them fond memories of their previous home in the Midlands of Kwa-Zulu Natal.

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19

The SA issue15.indd 19

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Jumping Castles

The

South African

SA social ve Voster & Thania Kruger, Da

On Friday 7th May we held our regular social event at the Browns Bay Bowling Club. It was hosted

by North Shore Immigration Services. By the looks of the people in the photos below everybody had a real good time.

Diana Venter

Sharon William s&

Natalie Sparg

Chris Sparg, Marian & Bruce

row en & Peter Mor hleigh, Maure As ith w y se Ca

Ian Mellet & Neil Clarke

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS Come and be a part of the vibrant ex- sa community here in Auckland. Join in the fun and help each other by networking effectively.

SOCIAL EVENTS: We have a monthly fun social get together at the Browns Bay Bowling Club, Bute Road, Browns Bay on the first Friday evening of each month starting at 6pm. It is a lovely family outing, so bring everybody along including granny and grandpa but leave the dogs at home! Our next social will take place on Friday 4th June and after that on Friday 2nd July 2010.

BUSINESS NETWORKING: As new immigrants in a strange new land we need to help each other by promoting our new businesses or special projects amongst each other. We have some well established businesses here run by ex-SA immigrants who pride themselves in the services that they offer. They value your support and by the same token, they need to know what YOU, the new immigrant has to offer.

You will be given a chance of introducing yourself to the regular attendees and we will ensure that you are entered on to the SANZ Business data base in order for all members to be able to access your details.

Meetings are held on the first and third Wednesday of each month at the Browns Bay Bowling Club, Bute Road, Browns Bay commencing 6pm.

Next meetings: Wednesday 2nd June, 16th June, 7th July, 21st July 2010.

SA NEW ARRIVALS CLUB: It can be extremely daunting when you step off the ‘plane here in NZ and start your new life in a totally different environment. This new club holds meetings on the SECOND Wednesday

Cathy Mellet with kids & Tanja Claub erg

evening of each month at a superb venue in a park like setting that will allow your kids to have fun while you listen to some good advice about settling into NZ and making the necessary adjustments to become a successful Kiwi. There are free wine and snacks available at the meeting.

The venue is the Kawai Parapura Retreat Centre, 14 Mills Lane, Albany off Oteha Valley Road.

Next two meetings: 9th June, 14th July.

Time: from 6pm to 8 pm.

A NEW CLUB ON THE SOUTH SHORE OF AUCKLAND Hello - Parnell, Remuera, Ellerslie, Howick, Mt Wellington, Mt Eden, Newmarket, Epsom, St Johns, Mission Bay, Ponsonby, Greenlane etc etc.

Hey guys…. We need a South African Club in your area. Right now there appears to be a “bridge barrier” between the North Shore of Auckland and the highly prestigious South. Don’t be a snob! We need a social and business networking club in your area! So step up to the plate! If you have a preferred venue please let us know. We would also like to set a specific Friday night each month that doesn’t clash with our regular North Shore function. Ian and Cathy Mellett of Quay Law, who live in Remuera, would like to get the ball rolling. Telephone 523 2408 or e-mail Ian.Mellett@ quaylaw.co.nz MAIRANGI BAY SANZ COFFEE CLUB Calling all SA housewives or retirees who are looking to socialize with others and share their stories! This group meets once per month on the 2nd Thursday of each month. The Venue: Café Windsor, 542 East Coast Road, Mairangi Bay, in front of the Baptist Church opposite the entrance to Hastings Road. Travel down a little road next to Kentucky Fried Chicken where you will find plenty of safe parking. Time: 10 am to 12pm. Next meetings: June 10th, July 8th 2010.

20

The SA issue15.indd 20

24/5/10 3:12:07 PM

The

South African From small beginnings….

How the South African Magazine started

By Peter and Ted Woodberg and Norma Vaz

We present part one of a two part article on the birth of this publication.

O

n a hot summer day in January 2008 Peter Woodberg invited his brother,Ted, to lunch at Kermadecs Restaurant on the Waterfront.

At the time both brothers were actively employed in the property industry.

Peter ordered the refreshments and then he opened his diary. Out of it popped an old copy of the “Connections” magazine.

“Connections” was the official mouthpiece of the South African community in New Zealand until its sad demise towards the end of 2007.

“We’ve gotta keep this thing going,” said Pete over a mouthful of seafood.

Ted looked at the magazine and picked through it page by page.

“What do you mean?” he asked.

“Well,” Pete answered, “Connections has closed down. We need to keep the idea of a South African magazine for the ex-pat community here in NZ alive and well.”

“Okay. So what should we call it?”

“What about ‘The South African?’

Another SA beauty hits the headlines!

Lovely Mariska Schoeman

S

eventeen year old Mariska has just been crowned Miss Global Teen New Zealand and will be heading for the world competition in Brazil soon.

She had just stepped off the stage from the Miss North Shore Beauty Pageant where she was second runner up to Ashleigh Allport and Lisa Davids when she was approached to enter the Miss Global Teen NZ competition. To her family’s surprise and joy, she ran away with full colours at this pageant.

Mariska is off to Brazil at the end of June for the world competition and she cannot contain her excitement. There are big prizes up for grabs in this competition and if you have a look at Mariska, we think that she has a good chance of winning.

The New Zealand organizers will be paying for her travel and accommodation but she needs at least another $2 500 for clothes, evening garments, swimwear and a variety of other accessories including pocket money.

Unfortunately her family cannot afford these extras, without which she will not be able to attend.

“Sounds good to me!”

And so began a wild and wonderful journey for two men who didn’t have a clue about the publishing business! Peter had strong business skills and Ted loved to write, so they put their heads together and started piecing together the first issue of “The South African” that hit the streets of Auckland by some sheer stroke of pure magic by the middle of February 2008.

Both brothers realised that the ex-pat community in NZ was huge and growing constantly and there was a definite need for a publication that would create a strong platform for both a business and social interaction base.

Ted recounts with some mirth their first encounter with “word counting.”

“Pete and I were sitting at the dining room table on Sunday afternoon after lunch poring over the pages of text that we had prepared for the first issue. Pete said that we needed to count the number of words of each article in order that we could properly allocate the blocks of space taken up by each piece of text.

Pete and I set about the laborious task of physically counting the words in each piece of text.

‘Oh, damn!’ I said. ‘I’ve lost count!’

Pete looked at me deprecatingly and goaded me on.

‘C’mon, Ted. We’ve got to get all of these articles counted up before the mag goes to the printers tomorrow!’

‘But it’s so boring!’ I said, with head down over the sheets of text.

A week later we discovered a magic key on our computers that did all of that laborious counting for us!”

The magazine had to pay for itself from the advertising revenue, so both men spent their lunch hours yacking away on their private cell phones to potential advertisers, pleading with them to spend their hard earned money on a completely new community venture.

They wanted the magazine to be an advertising platform for ex-pat South Africans as well as a medium for advertising social and business events amongst the community.

Most of the advertisers felt sorry for these two crazy guys and eventually Peter and Ted had collected enough paid advertising to go to print with the first issue.

“It was touch and go,” recalls Pete, “But we wanted the magazine to pay for itself. Both of us had invested huge hours in preparing articles, setting up templates, contacting and confirming advertising rates with advertisers, meeting with the publishers and the printers and finally physically arranging for the distribution of the magazine.

The two of us did all of this without financial reward, but it was one of the most exciting adventures of our lives. When we held the final copy of Issue One in our hands we were two of the proudest men in New Zealand!”

SEE PART TWO IN OUR NEXT ISSUE – AUG/SEPT 2010 If you would liker to advertise in The South African, contact Norma Vaz on 021 043 7342 or e-mail norma.samag@xtra.co.nz

If you are a garment designer or in the beauty business or simply want to help, please contact Nico Schoeman on nico.louise@vodafone.co.nz or give him a call on 09-4836183.

21

The SA issue15.indd 21

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The

South African

Willem and Charmaine Oliver

South African Willem and Charmaine Oliver recently became the proud new owners of the prestigious

TOTARA RESTAURANT in Albany Village, Auckland.

T

here is no doubt that this famous establishment has etched itself into the hearts of many gastro-enthusiasts on the North Shore of Auckland. Our Editor, Peter Woodberg,

wrote a restaurant critique of TOTARA in our Issue No.7 (Feb 2009) and he gave it the praises that were due.

We are now stepping into a new era of this charming and quaint restaurant because it has turned full circle. SA immigrants, Willem and Charmaine, who originate from Pretoria, want to maintain the ambience and atmosphere of the existing restaurant that has been so lovingly created by its previous owners, Rod Fevre and Adrie Havermans.

Willem and Charmaine arrived in New Zealand only 16 months ago with their three sons Neil, Wiehann and Renier. With their enthusiasm and commitment as new owners and hosts, they will ensure the same high standard set by the previous owners.

The restaurant opened 12 years ago with Chef Peter Jackson as co-owner and subsequent winner each consecutive year of the prestigious “NZ Beef and Lamb Award” since 1999. Peter was also “New Zealand Beef and Lamb” Ambassador in 2008.

Fortunately the legendary services of chef Peter have been retained by the two new owners, ensuring the continuous flow of delicious gourmet food.

Attending the restaurant is a pleasure in season and out. During winter the premises are well heated and provide a warm and welcoming ambience to all of its customers and in the summer there is the exterior courtyard that is surrounded by beautiful, well maintained gardens, giving a truly ‘country’ feel to this unique dining area. Totara is an ideal venue for business lunches and special occasions.

You can enjoy a lunch at TOTARA from Tuesday to Friday from midday and a superb evening meal from Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm onwards.

Diners love to stay and enjoy the tasteful and comfortable ambience and glow that one gets when you have enjoyed good food, good company and hosts who want you to relax and enjoy your dining experience. Bon Appetite..

We wish the Olivers every success with their new venture and we encourage all of the ex-Saffer community here in Auckland to support them by keeping their restaurant packed out all the time!

Book your next outing with the Olivers at 09-415 6286 Totara Restaurant. 249 State Highway, Old Albany Village (opposite Albany Toyota).

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The

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AUCKLAND CITY OF SAILS see page 4

Beautiful Torbay Why South Africans love to live there

Great

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Great

see page 16

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A fresh

see page 16

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Inside

with John Key see page 3

Wonderful Waiheke

Destination on your Doorstep see page 18

South African Icons Charlize Theron see page 10

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Destination on your doorstep

Two Yachts two Voyages.

South African Sportsmen

Great SA Sportsmen

see page 8

see page 4

Ernie Els

Goodbye Miriam Makeba

see page 16

see page 16

Inside

see page 12

Sol Kerzner SA’s Casino King

Great SA Sportsmen Hansie Cronje

see page 8

see page 16

Great SA Sportsmen Gary Player see page 16

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Great SA Sportswomen -

Inside

Irene Van Dyk

Johnnie Clegg

see page 9

live in Auckland

Midnight Youth -

see page 10

Hot new NZ band with two ex-SA members

South African immigrants share their stories

SA Cricket Stars see page 16

see page 12

classical ballet, wine, food, business and more...

SA Music Scene Trevor Rabin see page 12

SA Music Scene David Kramer see page 12

Good Advice

from Enterprise North Shore see page 8

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SA Music

SA Soccer World Cup 2010 -

Pierre de Charmoy see page 12

Super Soccer Stadiums

Reuben Kruger -

see page 12

Great South African Sportsmen

SA Music

see page 14

Leslie Ray Dowling see page 14

SA Music

Mango Groove -

Auckland Dukes -

see page 12

Victor Matfield -

ex-SA Minstrel Band in NZ see page 12

Great South African Sportsmen

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see page 14

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