The
Issue number 040 August/September 2014
South African
CONNECTING SOUTH AFRICA AND NEW ZEALAND
The art of making friends Page 8
Licensed Immigration Advisers
Page 18
Free
From the editor Hello all,
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he South African Magazine has been going for over 7 years now providing New Arrivals and long-time South Africans in New Zealand with vital information, interesting articles and stories of hope and encouragement. We also promote talented South African artists and writers by featuring their exhibitions and book reviews. Our advertisers are very important to the magazine, without which, we could not sustain this fantastic little publication. So once again, thank you to all our advertisers – and especially the ones who have advertised consistently since we started. I know advertisers who consistently advertise become household names in the community. Bushman’s Grill being one of them. They are doing an outstanding job in advertising and marketing and are clearly on the map on the North Shore. Without warning, the sagoingtonz website, which belongs to The South African Magazine, shut down for three days due to overloading. I must have received over 200 emails inquiring about it. We managed to get the website up and running again to the satisfaction of hundreds, if not thousands, of Saffers who use the site on a regular basis. Simona and I will be off to South Africa in September running free immigration seminars in four cities, as well as job interviews, on behalf of employers and recruitment consultants. Our full itinerary on when and where we will be going will be available soon. I am trying to avoid TV at the moment with the election players and their mud-slinging campaigning. I am over it and we still have a month and a half to go. Please watch out for the NZSABC invite to the next business network meeting on the North Shore. This will be in conjunction with Lexus Motors on Link Drive on 1 September. Your invite will be in your mail inbox. Happy Reading! Peter Woodberg
The
South African PUBLISHER & EDITOR Peter Woodberg e-mail : jepwood@xtra.co.nz; mob: 0274 520 794 ADVERTISING CO-ORDINATOR Sherelee Clarke e-mail: sherelee.samagazine@gmail.com; ph 021 0290 6460 DESIGN Dennis Hawnt e-mail: dennis@wrk.co.nz; ph 09 428 0820 PRINTERS MHP Group – Kevin Cliffe e-mail: kevin@mhpgroup.co.nz; ph 09 373 3921 ADDRESS The South African, P.O.Box 300 155, Albany, AUCKLAND 0752 17 Corinthian Drive, Albany, AUCKLAND, 0630 JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! THE SOUTH AFRICAN MAGAZINE http://www.facebook.com/groups/401361333247671 CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS Website by immigrants for immigrants – www.sagoingtonz.co.nz The New Zealand Southern African Business Council Chairman Peter Woodberg 0274 520 794 jepwood@xtra.co.nz - Vice Chairman Neil Clarke 021 609 247 neil@hwp.co.nz. Die Afrikaanse Klub – Philip Langenhoven e-mail: die.afrikaanse.klub@clear.net.nz Christchurch contact: Linda Klok: e-mail: info@sinzasa.org.nz THE SOUTH AFRICAN HIGH COMMISSION, WELLINGTON Tel: 04 815 8484 Level 7, State Insurance Tower, 1 Willis Street, Wellington. e-mail: consular@sahcwellington.co.nz COVER Water colour: African woman with Headscarf by Ant Hemming. ISSN 2230-4673 ISSN 2324-5999
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.”
South Africans Going To New Zealand
Advice and Support for South Africans Immigrating to New Zealand
Clarke: sherelee.samagazine@gmail.com Sherelee 2
www.sagoingtonz.co.nz The South African
LEGAL UPDATE: EMPLOYMENT LAW
The do’s and don’ts of the Holidays Act – a question answered. Our in-house employment law specialist, Eska Hartdegen, discusses a recent Employment Court decision which clarifies whether or not holiday pay must be paid on incentive bonuses received after the job has ended.
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mployees in New Zealand are entitled to a minimum of 4 weeks’ annual leave per year. The Holidays Act 2003 has been considered a complicated piece of legislation and is viewed as difficult for employers to understand and to interpret correctly. The act’s rationale and intention is ‘to promote balance between work and other aspects of employees' lives and, to that end, to provide employees with minimum entitlements’ and it provides for example that where an employee elects to do so, the employer must allow the employee to take at least 2 weeks of his or her annual holidays’ entitlement in a continuous period.
when his role was declared redundant in November 2011. His employment contract included an agreement relating to the company's shares that earned him a taxable payout of $3.2 million but Zeetag did not pay him holiday pay on this sum and this formed the basis of his claim in the Court.
The company’s argument in Court was that because the payment was made to Mr Howell only after his employment ended, and gross earnings ended on the last day of employment, it could not be The purpose of the Act is stated as termed or considered to be gross providing for (a) annual holidays to provide earnings and therefore legally no the opportunity for rest and recreation, (b) holiday pay needed to be paid on public holidays for the observance of days of Eska Hartdegen it. However Judge Perkins found national, religious, or cultural significance, (c) ‘it would be illogical, for instance, that an employee is deprived of sick leave to assist employees who are unable to attend work holiday pay on a commission or bonus payment simply because they because they are sick or injured, or because someone who cannot be calculated as at the last date of employment, and can depends on the employee for care is sick or injured and (d) only be payable later’, saying ‘A black letter law argument ... which for bereavement leave to assist employees who are unable results in him being deprived of the holiday pay when in many other to attend work because they have suffered a bereavement. situations he would have received it, is simply not tenable’. Beyond this the Act also sets out how to calculate annual leave accrual, which is based on an employee’s ‘gross This decision likely will throw the cat among the pigeons as it may well be that in many instances employers have not been paying earnings’ and what payments should be included in gross holiday pay on bonuses and commissions paid after employment has earnings. ended. What this decision highlights is the need always for a careful When employees leave a company, they have to be paid out reading of the legislation in question and a definitive understanding for any annual leave they have accrued to that date, but the of the Act. Seeking early legal advice may just be what prevents million dollar question is: Must holiday pay be paid on an unnecessary and costly litigation in the future. incentive bonus which is paid to the employee only after the Thanks to the NZ Herald for its article on the above topic. employment ends? This question is one that had not been specifically considered by the Employment Court until a recent Employment Court decision. In this case Judge Perkins had to decide whether holiday pay must be paid on incentive bonuses received after the job had ended, thus whether ‘gross earnings’ included the incentive bonus in this instance. In this important precedent setting case, Mr Howell, the finance and administration general manager of Zeetags, was paid an incentive bonus of $3.2 million when he left the company. This was a contractual entitlement. Judge Perkins additionally ordered the company, now named MSG Investments, to pay holiday pay of $256,000 (representing 8 %) plus interest to Mr Howell on an incentive payment he had been paid nearly a year after his employment ended. Mr Howell had been employed by the company for 10 years The South African
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Welcome to New Zealand Photos: Sherelee Clarke
Please join us at our New Arrivals evenings and meet the professional advisers who will be on hand to give you invaluable advice in an informal setting. The concept of networking and connecting is growing as there appears to be a need for new immigrants to be given support, advice and leads in situations relating to immigration, the job market, accommodation and more! Sergey Gimranov and Simona Woodberg (North Shore Immigration Services).
When: Where: Time: Please RSVP:
Monday 25 August and Monday 29 September 100 Bush Road, Level 1, Building 2, Albany, North Shore 6pm to 8pm enquiry@hwp.co.nz or call us on 09 915 0100.
Gideon Hartzenberg, Simona and Peter Woodberg. Alvah Brickhill, Simona Woodberg and Neil Clarke.
Corrie Ekermans.
Brendan Chapple and Simona Woodberg. Richard Pearce, Andrew Downey and Neil Clarke.
Neil Clarke with Carlyn and Clint Williams, kids and David Knepscheld.
Pat Sloane, Donna, Mark Watling and Simona Woodberg.
Daniel Pope and Simona Woodberg.
Peter Woodbery, Pat and Donna Sloane, Andrew Downey and Jan Barnard.
Carlyn Williams, Mercia Hartzenberg, Dorothy Meyer and Gideon Harzenberg.
Peter Woodberg. 4
Alvah Brickhill and Jenny Parker (Building Recruitment).
Peter Woodbery, Pat and Donna Sloane.
Gert Stoltz, Jan Barnard and Lloyd Symes.
Steven Musiker and Sybrand Botes (Quest Recruitment). The South African
Unbelievable Chad By Sheetal Schneider Cross
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outh African Olympian, Chad Le Clos, famous for his victory against US Olympian Michael Phelps in the 2012 Olympic 200m Butterfly Medley, has just released a book called Unbelievable.
Le Clos wrote the book with the help of writer Myan Subrayan, known in New Zealand for another bestselling autobiography on All Blacks player, Inga Tuigamala called, Inga: My Story. Le Clos, who has enjoyed various international swimming successes over the years, said that he wanted to inspire the youth with his book, which was not ‘a typical sports book’. Unbelievable, outlines the details of Le Clos’s preparations prior to the competition and events leading up to his winning moment. “It touches me the most when people tell me that I inspired them or have given them more hope of achieving their dream. Everyone has the capability of going after what they want and I believe my book can help give people that little added push in the right direction,” said Le Clos.
In May, the young athlete travelled to Doha to attend an altitude training camp, headed to Monaco and Barcelona for racing, finally ending his trip in Italy for another two week training camp. It was the first time Le Clos had attempted altitude training and said it was definitely an opportunity to improve. “Every year we have training camps before the big competitions toward the end of the year but if we get offered to go somewhere we’d rather go somewhere that is going to help me,” he said. Although he is often busy with training, travelling and competitions, he always makes time his family and friends.
Chad Le Clos and Myan Subrayan
Le Clos, who is currently single, recently moved into his own customised bachelor pad in his hometown of Durban-by-thesea and says he is open to dating.
Meat King’s growing biltong reputation
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eat King only started producing their own biltong & droëwors at the beginning of this year but in this short space of time sales have grown rapidly. Owner, Jo Cormack attributes this achievement to utilizing the knowledge and experience of Meat King’s resident South African butcher, Conrad Fourie. Having already made a mark with their Boerewors this past summer, this was a natural progression. Buoyed by the enthusiasm of their customers with comments such as “this tastes like home” and “this is the best biltong I’ve found in New Zealand” and with demand for their Biltong and droëwors coming from as far afield as the lower South Island, production has been stepped up, and in addition, they have recently introduced Chilli bites to their range. Cormack has thoroughly enjoyed learning this tradition and likens the process to that of tending to a garden or vine. Caring personally for each and every batch, every step of the way to ensure consistency and hopefully, perfection. The staff at Meat King are friendly, knowledgeable and available to answer any question or query you may have. The South African
BILTONG
$38.95kg Open 7 days, 7am - 7pm
Ph 09 479 8885
52 Oteha Valley Road, Albany jo@meatking.co.nz 5
Ant’s Art comes to Thames By Eve Hemming
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eve.epiphany@gmail.com
t’s not every day one gets to interview one’s husband! Ant and I relocated to Thames from Auckland this year. Hemming was in the Civil Engineering profession prior to retiring. He started ‘dabbling’ in water colour painting when he was recuperating at home after becoming a Chronic Fatigue Sufferer.
Hemming has taken Ant and Eve Hemming his art to a new level in which he has been exploring what he refers to as a ‘challenging medium of applying water colours onto canvas.’ He has found this new art medium challenge both exciting and stimulating. “You only get one chance at it. It’s an unforgiving medium – unlike oil paint which enables the artist to cover over any blemishes. With water colour as a medium, the blemishes become part of the creative production”, he explains. In creating a water colour figure study, Hemming carefully and methodically plans how to achieve the outcome of intricately applying and merging colours with water on an unpredictable surface. “Every painting constantly surprises me. Each canvas texture differs, which produces varying results. Some canvases are more absorbent than others which results in every painting becoming an intriguing
experience as it unfolds”, explains Hemming. He adds that the absorption- or in some cases the repellent nature - of water on the canvas results in differing textures manifesting as part of the essence of each design. He finds this the exhilarating and challenging part. This is opposed to oil paints, which can obscure the texture of the canvas. Hemming’s wife (that’s me) is a writer, psychologist and Expressive Arts therapist, who recently formed an Expressive Arts Group for empowering women in Thames. Through our various innovations, we have felt enormously privileged to connect with many of the Thames folk, developing friendships and quickly feeling at home in this welcoming community.
July. Despite it being a rather punishingly chilly evening, a lively group attended the event, demonstrating their collegial support for us newcomers. The Art Exhibition will be on display at Sola Café until 5th August. It’s a favourite Thames haunt for coffee and eats and when you do pop in, kindly have a browse at Ant’s art. Details on how to contact Ant are available from Sola.
Ant’s water colour Figure Studies Exhibition Preview was held at Sola Cafe in Pollen Street, Thames, on Wednesday 2
Annique’s forever healthy range now available in New Zealand!
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nnique’s Forever Healthy range of vitamin and mineral supplements has been created by nutritional experts to provide the optimum balance between science and nature. There are core and baseline nutritional supplements for digestive, heart, bone, brain, arterial, energy and immune system support, as well as an array of assistance for specific health conditions and concerns such as acne, PMS, stress, memory, mood and libido. Green Rooibos extract has been included in the Forever Healthy supplements for its potent antioxidant, anti-allergenic, anti-ageing, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. It also helps balance blood sugar levels, reduces cholesterol and alleviates stress, and contains enzymes to improve nutrient absorption. For a free Forever Healthy Booklet or pricelist of the complete range, please contact your local Annique Consultant or Distributor Tracey Crosby at 09 945-0556 or tracey@anniqueonline.co.nz.
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The South African
Who’s who at East Coast Bays Dental
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illie Steenkamp graduated from Pretoria University in 1979 and started his career in London. Returning to South Africa in 1982 he opened a practice in Port Elizabeth which he operated for 12 years before moving to New Zealand in 1994.
In 1994, Steenkamp worked in a South Auckland practice fulltime while starting EAST COAST BAYS DENTAL in Browns Bay after hours. Steenkamp, assisted by his wife Annatjie, now operate this practice where the business has flourished through recommendations by existing patients and regular advertisements in The South African Magazine. The current surgery can be found at the intersection of East Coast Road and Spencer Road.
Riaan Van der Linde grew up in Port Elizabeth and returned to open his own dental practise after graduating from Stellenbosch University in 1982. After visiting friends in Auckland in 2012, he decided to move to New Zealand where he took up a position in Napier.
EAST COAST BAYS DENTAL is now a busy practice where two of their five children, Jan and Anneke, have joined them as a Therapist and a Hygienist. We are thankful to celebrate several major events this year including a 35th wedding anniversary, 20 years in New Zealand and the opening of a second surgery at Mercari Business Centre on the 28th July this year.
“We have enjoyed Hawkes Bay tremendously but when the opportunity presented itself to join Steenkamp in Auckland we decided that the bigger city is really where we would like to be, closer to family and friends. I have enjoyed a very fulfilling career in dentistry and do all aspects of dentistry. It is wonderful to be able give back someone’s smile or relieve their pain. If I have to choose an area of dentistry that I enjoy, my pet subject would be orthodontic therapy”, says van der Linde.
With the opening of this new surgery EAST COAST BAYS DENTAL are pleased and privileged to welcome Dentist Riaan van der Linde and Clinical Technician Boris Tinone.
Steenkamp, Tinone and van der Linde have a combined 94yrs of dental experience between them so you can rest assured they have seen it all!
Boris Tinone qualified in 1986 from the Technicon Witwatersrand as a Dental Technician, worked 2 years in a dental lab for the army before going to Europe to work a year in Germany and two years in Malta, working for a German-owned dental laboratory, and later working in Scotland for eight years. He immigrated to New Zealand in 1999 owning his own dental lab and completed his postgraduate clinical studies at Otago University in 2009. He is a tutor at Dental Suppliers Henry Schein and will run clinics at the Mercari surgery.
Steenkamp and van der Linde will be both working between the East Coast Road and Mercari Way practices, with late nights on Monday to Thursday and one Saturday morning each a month, while Tinone will do two mornings at the Mercari Way practice. We offer free no obligation checks with x-rays and advice on Thursday afternoons by appointment only. Please call 09 415 7000.
Willie Steenkamp & Riaan van der Linde Every Thursday Afternoon! FREE DENTAL CHECKS, X-RAYS and ADVICE* Receive a free no obligation ESTIMATE for urgent and essential treatment. 15 Mercari Way, Albany
Phone: 415 7000 www.ecbdental.co.nz *Conditions apply please enquire when booking.
The South African
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The art of making friends By Robyn Bullough robynbullough@gmail.com
W
hen you randomly pack up your life and hot-tail it to the other side of the world there are many things which cross your mind. Will you fit in? Get jobs? Settle down? Will you essentially fit-in in a foreign country? I think we would all answer yes because this is our hope. But when you start packing the boxes and applying for Visas you don't think about how you are going to do all those things; especially about how you are going to make friends. We arrived in New Zealand a little over 9 months ago and we knew hardly anybody. I am not exactly the shy and quiet type and although my partner, Daniel, is a little quieter than I am, I wouldn't exactly call him shy either. After a week or two of hiding in beautiful Matakana we were plunged into the great big world of settling in and meeting people in Auckland. We did all the things ‘newbies’ are supposed to do. We went to social evenings, chatted to random strangers, swapped numbers and added people to facebook. We have even been on ‘blind dates’ to meet other couples here. In some ways it felt like we were expected to get along with all these new people because we had two things in common with them: 1. We all come from South Africa (and
mostly all still support the Springboks) 2. We all arrived in New Zealand at roughly the same time so surely we have that in common too so we can now be friends? However, this also got me thinking. We packed up our lives to live in a foreign country, yet we stick to often to our own kind and only make South Africa friends. Maybe it is easier but maybe it is the mutual understanding of where we come from and who we are that makes this easier (maybe it is also because we essentially speak the same language and have the same jargon). Making friends is not easy. I don’t believe that it is easy at any age, yet it is something that goes hand in hand with starting a new
Exploring Auckland with our new friends.
adventure. But I don’t think it is necessary to stick with what we know. We are after all, on a big immigration adventure, trying to get a taste of what else is out there and broaden our horizons. As adults we tell children to go make friends with strangers and to “play nicely”. So go make friends, meet new people, experience a new culture and play nicely! Enjoy the adventure of making new meaningful friendships, even if it is the hardest part of settling into New Zealand.
GEORGE DEEB A S S O C I AT E S Barristers ~ Solicitors ~ Notaries Public
Are you SorTed? For expert legal advice, from a team with 30 years combined experience in New Zealand and South African law, call us. We’ll help you sort out your affairs and make sure your new life in New Zealand is successful. Property - Trusts and Estate Planning - Company and Commercial Business Law - Immigration - Matrimonial ENSURING YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR PRACTICE
LEKr New to NZ? Need wheels? Need finance?
94 Anzac Street Takapuna Auckland Tel: 09 486 1415 | george@georgedeeb.co.nz | www.georgedeeb.co.nz
Even if you have no credit history, we can usually get you a loan and a car within a day! Apply online or call us now. 0800 BUY A CAR WWW.AQUACARS.CO.NZ 8
The South African
Dental care for Immigrants to New Zealand
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he majority of immigrants to New Zealand arrive here with a background of dental insurance and billing, so having to pay for dental treatment when leaving the dentist’s surgery comes as a shock for many. This article briefly explains how dentistry operates in NZ and provides some advice to help one make more informed decisions about dental treatment. There is no set guideline or schedule of fair dental fees in New Zealand, such as the DASA guideline in South Africa. The Commerce Commission regards this as anti-competitive and is thus illegal. Dentists therefore operate in a freemarket economy and may charge what they feel is appropriate. Treatments you agree to and the costs associated with the treatments are regarded as a private agreement between the dentist and patient. It is therefore important to be sure of what treatment is required and how much it will cost.
Costs of treatment In general the costs of dental treatment are expected to be met by the patient. State-funded dentistry is now virtually nonexistent. Only patients with serious medical conditions may be eligible for treatment at state hospitals. Dental insurance may be obtained through commercial insurance companies, usually under an all-inclusive health insurance policy. Cover is usually not comprehensive. Denture services may be provided directly to patients by Clinical Technicians. A referral from a dentist is not required. State-subsidised costs of dental treatment may be classified as follows: 1) Pre- and primary school children are treated free of charge at dental clinics at schools by dental nurses and dental therapists, orthodontic treatments are excluded. 2) 13 to 17-year olds are treated free of charge by contracting dentists or therapists in many private practises or in visiting mobile clinics at schools, orthodontic treatment is also excluded.
The South African
Above from back left Jan, Willie, front from left Annatjie and Anneke Above right top from left Martha and Nazli, bottom right Boris
3) Accident related injury is covered fully or partly by ACC (a government agency) and most dentists provide this service. 4) Community Card holders may be treated by those dentists who have been awarded a government contract. 5) Patients who qualify for income support (Winz) are eligible for dental costs up to $300 per annum with an interest free loan for amounts in excess of $300.
Treatments For one to be able to make an informed decision regarding treatment and cost, treatments may be categorized into four levels of need. 1) Immediate. This is for pain relief. 2) Urgent. This would be treatment needed to prevent tooth loss or more expensive treatment like root canal therapy. 3) Essential: Include treatment of active disease like cavities and active dental caries, active periodontal disease, and chronic though often painless dental abscesses. 4) Non Essential: Examples in this category include: Refilling or crowning of teeth with small broken off cusps Refilling of ditched fillings (breakdown of margins) Redoing imperfect fillings or root canals without evidence of new disease Discoloured fillings and cosmetic work Sensitive tooth necks due to abrasion Amalgam replacements Replacement of lost back teeth Inactive arrested caries.
Discussion on Treatment Options There are significant differences and opinions in the dental profession about
what treatment is best. Treatment decisions are sometimes driven by factors like profit margins, personal likes or dislikes, utilisation of dental equipment, etc.
Caries Dental caries are classified into different stages of development, and some dentists will fill caries at earlier stages while some will fill them later on. The early stages can quite often be arrested, and not need a filling, by following good advice from the dentist.
Crowns It is sometimes debatable as to whether a crown will be better for the patient rather than a filling.
Orthodontics There is a lot of disagreement in orthodontics on how to treat, functional or fixed appliances, at what age to treat and even if treatment is necessary.
Periodontal Treatment Most patients have gum disease to some extent but factors like age, susceptibility and one’s oral hygiene should be weighed against the costs of periodontal treatment before proceeding.
Conclusions Always make sure that at least the essential treatment is performed. Holistic treatment plans from different dentists will usually vary widely largely based on the inclusion or exclusion of treatments in the non-essential category. There usually is more than one option. The patient should make sure they are familiar with all of the options and then select what they can afford or desire. Look out for next issue where East Coast Bays Dental will discuss more issues on dentistry. 9
Dr Bernie Brenner MB Bch (Wits), FRCOG, FRANZCOG, MBA, M phil, BA (UNISA) Gynaecologist and Uro Gynaecologist Specialising in Gynaecological Conditions including: • Gynaecological Ultrasound • Female Urinary Incontinence & Urodynamic Assessments • Minimally Invasive Surgery for Bladder Leaking • Colposcopy (the treatment of abnormal cervical cytology) • Hysteroscopy for diagnosis of abnormal bleeding • Laporoscopic Surgery – for removal of Fibroids, Ovarian Cysts and Endometriosis Consulting Rooms at For an appointment phone Email Website
131 Shakespeare Road, Milford 09 486 0182 reception@pelvicfloorclinic.co.nz www.berniebrenner.co.nz
james pretorius B.Ch.D. M.Ch.D. (Pret)
orthodontist Suite 3, North Shore Medical Centre 326 Sunset Road, Mairangi Bay Auckland 0632, NEW ZEALAND Telephone: Surgery (09) 479-7963 Fax (09) 479-7941 Home (09) 413-9854 Email: j.pretorius@clear.net.nz
Make Your Mark
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rime Minister, Mr John Key, has announced that the 2014 general election will be held on 20 September. Every year thousands of New Zealanders become eligible to enrol to vote for the first time and every vote counts. New Zealanders are lucky to live in a democracy and we can all play our part in keeping our democracy strong by getting on the electoral roll and voting. It means we can take part in local elections, when we choose the people who will make decisions about our local areas, and general elections, when we choose the parties and politicians who will represent us in Parliament. In New Zealand the law says that you must be enrolled on the electoral roll. You must enrol if you are; • 18 years or older, • Living or have lived in New Zealand for more than one year continuously at some stage • Are a citizen of New Zealand, or • A Permanent Resident of New Zealand. To register, enrol on the website http://www.elections.org.nz.
hi there!
I’m Dennis Hawnt, a graphic designer with a wealth of experience.
I am available to help you develop your next project in an eye catching and memorable way.
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Dennis Hawnt 021 216 9238 forces@wrk.co.nz www.wrk.co.nz
forces wrk
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The South African
Weir, thank you!
F
aculty of Engineering &Trades lecturers at Manukau Institute of Technology, South African Weir Pillay and Paul Phillips are the recipients of the Competenz Provider Awards, recognising the importance of vocational tertiary education in developing New Zealand’s apprentices. Between them, Pillay and Phillips teach Marine Refrigeration, Heating and Ventilation, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning and advanced Thermodynamics. Born in Merebank, Durban, Pillay studied at Dundee High School and completed his technical studies at the M L Sultan Technical College in Durban, obtaining a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (Refrigeration and Air Conditioning). In 2001, Pillay was offered a position as Lecturer/Programme Co-ordinator at MIT including serving as a Curriculum Specialist under the Ministry of Education in the United Arab Emirates for three years returning to MIT in 2005. Pillay says great career options are available for his students. “Today, we’re developing our students to be both business people and technical experts.
Weir Pillay
Students studying under these two lecturers usually come through their secondary education with strengths in physics and maths. “The time I have with students is one of the most rewarding aspects of my role. I’ve had some incredible opportunities in my 12 years here at MIT. I’ve been able develop Refrigeration and air conditioning curriculum material for schools and
I’ve worked alongside companies like Fonterra, DB Breweries and Lion Nathan to help grow industry engagement”, says Pillay. They both agree that the very best part of each working day lies in helping young, enthusiastic people develop the skills they need for a great career.
HYPERTENSION SPECIALIST
High blood pressure (hypertension) affects about 25% of the adult population and is the most treatable cause of death and disability in New Zealand. Common concerns
Dr Walter van der Merwe
MBChB (Capetown 1978), FRACP
Specialist Physician specialising in hypertension (high blood pressure) and kidney disease. “I have lived and worked in New Zealand for 30 years and have trained in South Africa, the United Kingdom as well as New Zealand.”
• High blood pressure that you’re having difficulty managing with your present doctor/medications • Side effects from your blood pressure medications (e.g. fatigue, sexual problems) • Worries about underlying causes of high blood pressure • Uncertainty about the diagnosis of high blood pressure (e.g. in young people) • High blood pressure in association with obesity, diabetes, heart, or kidney disease • Any kidney problem (reduced kidney function, protein leak etc) • Recurrent kidney stones If you are concerned by any of these and would like advice from a Specialist Physician, call to make an appointment:
(09) 918 1666
1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna Auckland, 187 Queen Street, and at Ascot Office Park.
The South African
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Tax treatmentof foreign pension/superannuation schemes.
C
hanges simplifying the tax treatment of foreign pensions and superannuation schemes have become law. Many taxpayers have not been complying with their tax obligations under the existing law, which is complex and misunderstood by many. An amnesty was introduced to allow affected taxpayers the opportunity to pay a reduced amount of tax in respect of historic pension transfers where tax was not paid. The amnesty period also enabled taxpayers who transfer pensions to NZ before 31 March 2014 the option of choosing to pay tax at the reduced rate. There will likely be closer IRD scrutiny on the tax treatment of pension transfers after 31 March 2014. The IRD intends to simplify the tax treatment of foreign pensions and superannuation schemes. Under the proposed changes, the Foreign Investment Fund (FIF) rules will generally no longer apply to foreign superannuation schemes. All periodic pension and annuity payments will be taxed in full on receipt, as most periodic payments currently are. Lump sum payments will be taxed when they are withdrawn or transferred, with the amount of tax depending on the period of time that has elapsed from the day on which the person became a tax resident, or the end of the exemption period (as explained below), whichever date is later. Two calculation methods are available. Those taxpayers who have complied with the FIF rules in relation to their foreign superannuation scheme before 20 May 2013 can continue to use the FIF rules. Otherwise, for any lump sum payment between 1 January 2000 and 31 March 2014, the taxpayer has the choice of being taxed under the law that applied at the time of payment, or using the 15% rate option. Under the latter option, 15% of the amount is included in the person’s 2013/14 or 2014/15 tax return, and penalties and interest are not applied from the income year in which the amount should have been included. Taxpayers who have complied with the existing law and paid the associated tax will not be able to reassess their position using the 15% option.
Neil B Clarke FSP10261 Authorised Financial Adviser Phone: 09 915 0100 Mob: 021 609 247 Email: enquiry@hwp.co.nz www.hwp.co.nz
Insurance:
Life Cover, Trauma, TPD, Income Protection
Medical:
Hospital, Specialists & Tests, GP Visits, Dental & Optical
ACC:
Review of cover & levies
Investments:
Unit Trusts, Managed Funds, KiwiSaver
Mortgages:
Access to bank & non-bank options
More Benefits | Best Rates | Assured HWP Ltd trading since 2001 DISCOUNTED INSURANCE RATES AVAILABLE 12
501008 CMYK
A proposed change to the KiwiSaver Act 2006 will allow taxpayers who transfer from a foreign scheme to a KiwiSaver scheme to withdraw sufficient funds from the KiwiSaver scheme to pay the tax that is payable because of the transfer. “Transitional residents” currently have an exemption period of between 4 and 5 years, during which the NZ tax rules do not apply to most forms of foreign income (including foreign superannuation schemes). If enacted in its current form, the tax bill will enable the same exemption period to apply to the foreign superannuation schemes of all new residents, even if they are not treated as “transitional residents”. If there is a withdrawal or transfer during the exemption period, there would be no NZ tax implications.
Questions to ask yourself before deciding to transfer your money: 1. What is the amount of money I’m planning to transfer? 2. How do the fees and transfer costs compare between my superannuation scheme and KiwiSaver provider? 3. What benefits (if any) will I be giving up if I transfer my money to KiwiSaver? 4. Are there any tax implications to transfer my savings to KiwiSaver? 5. What other things should I compare between my provider(s) and my KiwiSaver provider? Type of fund/assets Control you have over your investment How you can access information and advice about your investments The FMA strongly encourage anyone thinking about withdrawing or transferring their superannuation savings, to seek independent financial advice before deciding to do so, and to not to feel pressured or rushed into any decision. Information provided as a ‘class’ advice by Neil Clarke AFA (FSP10261) - 09 915 0100 – www.hwp.co.nz The South African
Radio DUKES
R
uthewaan Waggie, founder and leader of the Auckland City Dukes Klopse Group, and Derrick Solomon are the co-owners of the newly launched world’s first Klopse radio station on planet FM 104.6 every Saturday evening at 10.40pm. The programmes are also available online for the entire week. To help run the station, a group of volunteers will be heading the line-up Greg Mason, Nazeem Smith, Mawadda Toyer, Dezmond Paulse, Dave Tumu, Lameez Smith and Yusuf Toyer. The station will play and promote Klopse music, showcase the Cape Creole people and their history by acknowledging Klopse legends and musicians, and discuss topical cultural issues with phone ins and interviews. A totally new music genre will be introduced to the world via New Zealand. Ironically, it was Kiwi, Thomas Field, who persuaded Waggie to establish a Klopse radio station to represent the diversity and multiculturalism which is New Zealand. In turn, Radio DUKES will further promote NZ as a country where harmony and acceptance amongst all ethnicities are not only encouraged but respected.
elitemeats.co.nz /
elite.meats@xtra.co.nz /
Auckland City Dukes Springbok-HoppaProject - Weekend rugby special package - In support of the Bokke vs All Blacks! (1) Depart by Luxury bus - Thursday-eve - 7pm (2) Intermittent stops along the route (3) Snacks on bus (4) Maori Powhiri on Arrival in Wellington Experience Maori Tikanga/customs
Greg Mason
Derrick Solomon
(5) Welcome Rugby social - Meet & Greet supporters (6) Klopse -Hoppa-experience - Saturday- prematch Wellington City Parade
Ruthwaan Waggie
Dezmond Paulse
(7) Experience pre-match build-up - In stadium Be part of historical S.A. support extravaganza - pre-event entertainment (8) Experience Hoppa- vibe on stands (9) Meet Bokke
Mawadda Toyer
Zammie Smith
(10) After-party DJOL - City (11) Return - Sunday - late morning (12) Cost - $375-00 includes - Friday/Saturday breakfast/accommodation/return transport/ match tickets on grandstand/snacks on bus.
Dave
L Smtith
P: 07 855 7800
The Butcher with a difference. We offer unique, quality meat: * Dried cured meat (Biltong, Dried sausages, Cabanossi) * BoereWors (Elite’s farmers sausage) * Texan Steak * Aged Eye fillets, Sirloin & Rump steaks * South African & International groceries & much more... * Like our Facebook Site and be the first to know of specials on Biltong and Boerewors. Only quality KIWI meats, prepared in store the way You like it.
Mon - Fri: 8:30 - 6PM Sat: 8AM - 5PM Sun: 10AM - 3PM Conveniently situated Cnr Fifth Avenue & Tramway, Off Wairere Drive, Hamilton The South African
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Church Volunteers lend a helping Hand
M
ore than 500 volunteers spread out across Auckland from the City Impact Church’s North Shore and Mt Wellington campuses to carry out maintenance, gardening, cleaning and home makeovers for people in the community. Volunteers brought some much needed muscle power to the home of Caroline, a Birkdale resident and single mum of a four year old. Caroline contracted meningitis in 2011 which left her with a debilitating condition known as Neurosarcoidosis.
children. They also spring cleaned her home and cleared her yard. City Impact Church volunteers donated furniture to a family’s These were just burgled Ellerlsie home on Saturday. three families of the more than 70 families attended to by City Impact Church volunteers as part of their latest Community Impact Day. “We have been running these days several times a year for seven years now,” says Mary-Kath. “The number of jobs referred to us by government and the community continues to grow. We want people to know we care, that we’re willing to roll up our sleeves and lend a hand. It’s about showing God’s love to people in a practical way.” City Impact Church volunteers get stuck in to
When Mary-Kath Laita, Community Impact Manager, heard of her situation she arranged for a team of volunteers to spring clean her house, tidy her garden and remodel the garage into a play area for her daughter. Nearby, other volunteers carried out cleaning and maintenance at the home of a grandmother raising her grandchildren. An Ellerslie mum of five, returned home after a recent stay at the Auckland Women’s Refuge, to find her house burgled and everything taken. Church members arrived with a truckload of furniture, bedding and household items, as well as toys for her
To offer your help go to www.cityimpactchurch.com or phone 09 477 0300.
some cleaning at Caroline’s Birkdale home. From left Caroline, Jade Bowater, Carin Whitlock and Mari Grobler.
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Rhino deaths
Why wax when you can laser?
S
ome 558 rhino have been killed in South Africa already this year, setting the country on course for a gruesome new record number of poaching deaths.
Despite stepped-up efforts to curb the practice, the number of animals killed is around 100 times higher than at the same point last year, a year which saw a record 1,004 deaths. The vast, tourist-filled Kruger National Park has been hardest hit. Since January, 351 rhinos have been poached in the park. South Africa is home to around 80 percent of the world’s rhino population, estimated at more than 25,000 but alarming poaching figures are threatening the endangered species. Poachers have become increasingly sophisticated, shooting the animals with semi-automatic rifles or poisoned darts before hacking off their horns. The horns are prized as a status symbol in Asia, where they are falsely believed to possess medicinal properties to cure cancers and hangovers, even though they are composed of the same material as fingernails. Recent efforts to halt the scourge include the arrest of South African park and other officials believed to be implicated in poaching rings. In April, after years of talks, South Africa and Mozambique signed an agreement to fight poaching. Mozambique, which borders Kruger National Park is said to be a recruitment centre for illegal hunters hired by syndicates.
Many people have not thought of doing Laser Hair Removal instead of waxing. At Good Looking Beauty we offer great packages for Laser Hair Removal and Laser machines to suit any skin type. Pros: Great for long term hair removal in all areas. It causes no damage to the dermis so the most sensitive skin can be treated. Laser Hair Removal is more permanent than waxing and has become very popular. In the long run you will land up saving more money. How it works: Laser penetrates the skin to target the hair shaft and inhibit hair growth. It essentially destroys the follicle, meaning it can achieve hair reduction.
To learn more about this type of Laser treatment and what we have to offer please visit www.glbmedispa.co.nz or phone us on 09 476 8178. You can also find us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GlbMedispaRosedale
Snow fell on Mt Ruapeho recently for Vincent and Lars Schroeder to build a snowman. Pic: Nico Schroeder.
Free Immigration Seminars in South Africa
North Shore Immigration Services will be in South Africa to do free immigration seminars and one-on-one job interviews. If you have friends, family or colleagues who are still in South Africa and are interested in immigrating to New Zealand, please contact Peter Woodberg at North Shore Immigration: jepwood@xtra.co.nz Seminars will be held at: Garden Court Cape Town - 9th September 2014 Hilton Hotel Durban - 15th September 2014 Balalaika Hotel Johannesburg - 17th September 2014 Beach Hotel Port Elizabeth - 23rd September 2014 Seats are limited so please book early Contact: jepwood@xtra.co.nz
The South African
15
Free Review of Your Insurance Products • • • •
Life, Disability and Trauma. Commercial and Residential Mortgages. Fire and General. Assistance with SA Retirement Annuities and policies.
Contact Bernard or Michelle De Wet 09 9636291 bernard@fincare.co.nz or michelle@fincare.co.nz
www.fincare.co.nz (FSP 14663)
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Browns Bay (09) 478 8872 After-School Tuition from Qualified Teachers ✔ Primary: Reading, Writing, Spelling, Mathematics
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The value of screening By Stephen Kruger
stephen.kruger@xtra.co.nz
S
creening has often been described as a waste of valuable resources. Nothing could be further from the truth. It is because of these very screening programmes that cervical and breast cancer has decreased significantly. By definition, screening is a systematic examination or assessment used to detect an unwanted disease or substance.
We have one of the finest, safest and robust breast and cervical screening programmes in the world. As a practising Colposcopist, specialising in the management of abnormal smears, I work very closely with the cervical screening programme. Cervical Screening: Statistics shows that up to 90% of cervical cancer cases can be prevented with 3 yearly testing. The programme registers women on the database, decides on the frequency of testing and sends reminders. If abnormal, the programme will ensure that follow-up assessments occur. Its aim is to capture early cell changes in the cervix. Free cervical testing is available to all women who have been sexually active between the ages of 20 and 70. The Gardasil vaccine against the HPV virus is offered free to all girls between the ages of 12 and 20. This vaccine protects against the high risk of cervical cancer virus 16 and 18 as well as protection against genital warts. This is a great opportunity to have a full gynaecological examination at the same time. Breast Screening: Every 2 years, free mammograms are available to women between 45 and 69. This has the ability to locate early tiny cancers often too small to feel. Breast screening centres are located throughout the country and easily accessible caravans are in remote areas. The mammogram is checked by 2 radiologists and the results made available. If there’s any concern you will be called back for reassessment and/or offered an ultrasound, a breast examination or a biopsy. If it turns out to be cancer or pre-cancer you will be referred to a specialist. Antenatal Screening for Downs’ syndrome and other Conditions: Screening can provide information in the form of risk estimates for various chromosomal abnormalities of your unborn child such as Downs’ Syndrome, Trisomy 13 and 18 and Turner's syndrome, to name a few. Two screening tests are available; 1. If you are less than 14 weeks pregnant, the test combines the nuchal measurement (an ultrasound measurement of the thickness of the baby's neck) with a blood test. The results are combined with other information such as age, weight and baby’s gestational age. A calculation is made of the screening risk compared to the average for your age. 2. If you are between 14 and 29 weeks a blood test combined with your age and weight gives a risk estimate. These tests are only a guide to further testing and, if required, may include more invasive testing such as amniocentesis. I have listed the three most accessible screening programmes. There are other more specialised services such as genetic counselling and large bowel screening for selected people. Screening takes the entire population it targets and captures those individuals who need further assessment. They are then directed to the appropriate services. An important crucial aspect of any screening programme is the balance between risk and cost. Many women will alternate between the funded mammogram with a yearly paid one. That, I believe, is the right way to go. The South African
Cervical screening is a little more controversial. We now understand advtofbusiness card size; 9cm x 6cm the1st cause the sexually transmitted HPV virus. The body’s natural resistance (especially in younger women) often overcomes the virus as the progression is usually slow. Interestingly, the pap smear may AfrikAAns & English spEAking soon be replaced with an HPV swab.
Dr Stephen Kruger Located at the Northshore Womens Specialist Centre in
Dr Stephen Kruger is dedicated to the highest WhenAuckland, a smear is taken, I strongly advocate thatquality a pelvic examination of gynaecology services, with patient service to match. be done to ensure the rest of the pelvis is normal. When should the SpecialiSing in: I would like to see it taken soon after a woman first smear be taken? • Heavy menstrual bleeding and period problems becomes sexually active in order to detect the disease early and to • Fibroids Dr Stephen Kruger MB.Bch I(Wits), FRCOG, smears and colposcopy form a• Abnormal baseline for further testing. It amazes me how often come FRANZCOG • Vaginal repairs across young girls withrepairs a CIN 2 or CIN3, which are the worst pre• Post delivery vaginal Obstetrician and Gynaecologist • Miscarriage and all early pregnancy issues (formerly from Durban) cancers. • General Gynaecology including smears North Shore Womens • General Gynaecological surgery Antenatal screening poses a further moral dilemma. What to do if the Specialist Centre • Infertility Floor, results are abnormal? Do you terminate the pregnancy Ground or not? If 104 the For all appointments please call Wendy on 09 479 9016 Rosedale Road, Albany, couple are totally anti-abortion and do not want to prepare for the Auckland www.gynaecologistauckland.co.nz worst then screening may not be of value.
I have outlined, as succinctly as I could, what is available to you. Always discuss these issues with your doctor/specialist to make an informed decision.
We are fortunate to have an excellent, government-funded, first world medical service. Use it wisely!
2nd advt 1/4 page 14cm x 9cm
Dr Stephen Kruger AfrikAAns & English spEAking
Located at the Northshore Womens Specialist Centre in Auckland, Dr Stephen Kruger is dedicated to the highest quality of gynaecology services, with patient service to match. the practice SpecialiSeS in: • General Gynaecology including PAP smears • Heavy menstrual bleeding and period problems • Fibroids • Abnormal smears and colposcopy • Vaginal repairs • Post delivery vaginal repairs • Miscarriage and all early pregnancy issues • General Gynaecological surgery • Infertility Sadly, the majority of women who have cervical cancer diagnosed have not had a smear in the past 3 to 5 years. The greatest single reason when cervical cancer is diagnosed is that regular smear testing was not done. Call our practice nurse Wendy now to arrange your PAP smear and examination as part of your overall health care. IF yOu ARe exPeRIeNCING: • on-going pelvic pain • any unusual and/or persistent vaginal discharge, • bleeding between periods • bleeding after sexual intercourse • heavy vaginal bleeding • painful, uncomfortable sexual intercourse
We can help you. to arrange a consultation, please call Wendy on 09 479 9016
Dr Stephen Kruger
MB.Bch (Wits), FRCOG, FRANZCOG Obstetrician and Gynaecologist (formerly from Durban)
north Shore Womens Specialist centre
Ground Floor, 104 Rosedale Road, Albany, Auckland www.gynaecologistauckland.co.nz
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Yes or no to using licensed immigration advisers? By Sherelee Clarke
Thinking of immigrating? This is one of the biggest decisions of your life.
W
hen I started my research into immigrating to New Zealand, my family and I read and researched on every website on the net and eventually it got to be ‘information
overload’.
Too much information can be just as dangerous as too little and too many laymen giving advice is just as bad. In New Zealand, only people who have studied Immigration Law and Policy are allowed to give advice to us ordinary people – the same with Financial or Medical advice. It should go without saying that the experts who have put in the hours and the hard work of studying should be the ones who can give us the best tools to make informed decisions. I’m going to list the pros and cons about why using a Licensed Immigration Adviser should be first on your list when researching immigrating. Firstly, the pros: • • • • •
They are au fait with the policies, They are able to interpret the policies, They are the first to hear about changes to the policies, They are normally affiliated to immigration boards, And they are able to find solutions to almost 100% of your problems.
The reasons why a person should not have to use a Licensed Immigration Advisers are – oh my goodness, I’m unable to think of one! To find a Licensed Immigration Adviser should be the same as looking for a lawyer to take your case or a financial adviser on the best way to invest your money. No more, no less! You should be interviewing and asking about your Adviser’s credentials which include the years they have been in business, asking them as many questions as you require about their success rate and also asking for recommendations from immigrants who have been successful in obtaining Work Visas and Permanent Residency. It’s easy to find them – they’re the ones living and working legally in NZ! Licensed Immigration Advisers should also not be signing up every Tom, Dick and Harry and promising them the earth. Granted, there are only a very small percentage of people who are unable to immigrate due to ill-health, no qualifications or no experience and, although it’s very difficult to tell anyone that they are not eligible to immigrate, it’s even worse to give people false hope and take their money when it’s clear they have little or no chance of immigrating. Using off-shore (not in New Zealand) Immigration Services can also be very stressful as they are not in the country where the policies and decisions are made and nor are they in constant faceto-face contact with employers and recruiters in the job market. And you have to admit, that almost 99% of the time, your points need to be made whole with a job offer. On-shore Immigration Services have the added advantage of being available immediately, no concerns regarding time zones and have their fingers on the pulse regarding all areas of immigration. When I signed up with my Licensed Immigration Adviser at North Shore Immigration Services in Auckland, the initial meeting was where all the ins and outs were discussed, the different options I had, the costs and the way to move forward. My decision was made and I knew which way was the right way for me. I’ve heard it said that the costs for their services are astronomical. I have to disagree as the paperwork can be very intimidating and one little mistake, one tick in the incorrect box or one unanswered question, can leave you with a decline. And that mistake will cost you so much more than any dollar amount! On a very positive note, a Licensed Immigration Adviser is worth his/her weight in gold as he/she will do your homework and paperwork for you and be able to hold your hand through the rather stressful time while waiting for word from Immigration NZ. They will be in constant contact with Immigration NZ and will keep you up to date on any changes or queries immediately. A burden lifted off your shoulders which leaves you time to find and secure your job offer, your accommodation, your networking and the million other things which need to be done by you and you alone. Priceless! Why would you want to put more stress on the process than you already have to? I can’t see the point! For a free assessment and a free 30 minute consult, please email Peter at peter@nsis.co.nz.
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The South African
NZSABC evening Last month, the New Zealand Southern African Business Council held a network meeting at Sweet As Café in Browns Bay. It was one of the coldest nights in history and twenty hardy people braved the cold to attend. “We will be holding more of these meetings during the year.
The next meeting will be held on 1 September and will be a big one on the North Shore”, says Peter Woodberg, NZSABC Chairman. Invites will be sent to all members in August. Contact Peter on his email: jepwood@xtra.co.nz.
Carolyn Chelin, Owner Avantha Fernando and Lynn Norman.
Christo Botha, Chris Thom, Francois Esterhuysen and Errol Rudman.
Richard Pearce and Butch Mawdsley.
Gary Hey, Hugh Cronwright and Francois Esterhuysen.
Mike O'Reilly and Simona Woodberg.
Peter Woodberg, JC, Wayne Oliver and Nico Cronje.
Wayne Oliver, Eska Hartdegen and Glen Ramsay.
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The South African
19
WITWARM TARIEWE Sharp fares and friendly service for SA Kiwis
Call our South African specialists Donna or Shereen on 0800 002 659
We guarantee to have the best available airfares to and from South Africa. We will not be beaten. Our fares guarantee applies as long as seats are available in the applicable booking class.
We have customised policies with unlimited medical cover while in S.A. from $9 a day. Plus we can cover family coming to NZ from $3 a day. Free Global SIM card included. Prices based on 30 day policies for ages 59 and under with no preexisting conditions. Please ask us for a quote if you’re over 59 and or have medical existing conditions. Call rates apply to calls made on the Global SIM card - S.A. to NZ from $0.43/min.
CAR HIRE
We can have a car waiting for you on arrival at Jo’burg, Cape Town or Durban. From $25 per day for 7 days or more.
Bringing friends or family to NZ? We can arrange travel insurance cover from $5 per day.
Go to travelcafe.co.nz/signup to get FREE email alerts to the best fares to and from South Africa.
To arrange your next trip home call Donna or Shereen on 0800 002 659 or visit us online at travelcafe.co.nz/sa
20
The South African
SA Social on the Shore Jerry, Gaylen and Keryn van Heerden.
Martin Greenough.
Josik and Stuart Smith.
Please feel free to join us on the first Friday of every month at the Browns Bay Bowling Club in Beach Road for an evening of laughter and introducing new friends to each other. Thank you to Bushman’s Grill, Pinehill Butchery, Serengeti, North Shore Immigration Services and Annique at Neilia’s for your support in giving us vouchers for our quiz.
Martin and Wendy Greenough.
Chantelle Ronchese.
Errol Rudman.
Mike and Beulah Barber.
Ant de la Harpe and Jo Athanasiou.
Alvah Brickhill.
Chantelle Ronchese.
Gaylen van Heerden.
TravelCafe TravelCafe are delighted to have Suzette du Bois returning from maternity leave to a new role focusing on safaris and African experiences. This has been a passion for du Bois and an area she knows extremely well, both from personal experience and many years as an African specialist consultant here and in South Africa. Du Bois has been behind the scenes setting up new supplier relationships in SA and a new look DestinationAfrica site will be launched in the next month with a dedicated 0800 number. Shereen Booysen started with TravelCafe in May and her always friendly and helpful demeanour is proving super popular with South African clients looking for expert assistance and advice on fares, flights and travel arrangements to SA or holidays worldwide. Booysen’s 13 years as a leisure and corporate travel consultant and extensive personal and family travel experience is a compelling combination for Kiwi and SA travellers. Donna Baker really does have the “travel bug” and for July and the first half of August is working from Ixopo in Natal while visiting family. Thanks to the marvels of modern technology Baker is available during this time by email, phone and Skype and continues to provide a full travel consulting experience while her kids catch up with their grandparents!
For genuine expertise on fares, Shereen and Donna are available on 0800 002 659 or check out the ‘cheapest fares to and from South Africa in a nutshell’ on http://travelcafe.co.nz/SA. The South African
Ashwin Doolabh.
Simona Woodberg.
Steven Musiker.
Raymond and Beryl Truebody with Chantelle Ronchese and Nic Buchholtz.
What’s On Diary
SOUTH AFRICAN SOCIAL ON THE SHORE: Friday: Browns Bay Bowling Club: 1 August and 5 September: 6pm – 10pm: Cash Bar. NEW ARRIVALS: Monday: 25 August and 29 September: 6-8pm: 100 Bush Road, Albany, North Shore: Contact Vicki: 09 915 0100 for catering purposes. SANZ GOLF: Last Sunday of the month: Contact Cedric Braby: 0274 742 264 or 09 478 9544: email cedric.braby@gmail.com. All welcome. SOKKIEJOL DANS: 2 August: East Coast Bays Leisure Centre: 7pm: Contact Dewald Kritzinger: dewald@musicandsound.co.nz: Please book. HIGH TEA FOR LADIES IN HAMILTON: 3 August: The Olde Creamery Cafe: Contact Angela Bridger: angelabridger@gmail.com. AUCKLAND CITY DUKES HOJA SNACK DANCE: 16 August: Milford School Hall: Contact Ruthewaan Waggie: mrwaggie@hotmail.com. TUISNYWERHEID DAY: 60 Redoubt Road, Goodwood Heights, Manukau: Contact Veronica Turner: 021 250 8509: turner7@slingshot.co.nz. Friday Night Catch-Ups: Christchurch: 9 August: Trevinos Restaurant & Bar: 6.30pm: 12 September: Coasters Tavern: 6.30pm: Contact: Nicole Auret: 021 2137 379 or nicoleauret@hotmail.com. SA Support Group in Auckland: Felicity Bosch: Contact: 021 147 7151: felicityb48@gmail.com. Mairangi Bay SA Group: Contact: Penelope Rijkaart-Berrington: 09 4265933. Christchurch SA Group: Contact: Linda Klok: info@sinzasa.org.nz. Wellington SA Group: Contact: Iegsaan Bennett: madiba@xtra.co.nz. Rotorua SA Group: Contact: Gary Camoin: garykirstencamoin@gmail.com. SA Women Support Group in East Auckland: Ronel Kleynhans: 021535085. 21
PROPERTY CORNER This regular article is brought to you by Richard Pearce of Barfoot & Thompson.
Variations in the residential property markets across New Zealand
June 2007 June 2014
22
Southland
Northland
Hawkes Bay
Manawatu / Wanganui
Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) Chief Executive Helen O’Sullivan said that "There is a marked difference in the price performance for the Auckland and Canterbury/Westland regions compared to the rest of New Zealand." The REINZ news release continues: “Over the past seven years the national median price has increased by 23%, however, only Auckland and Canterbury/Westland, at 35% and 34% respectively, have seen
Otago
Southland
Northland
Manawatu / Wanganui
Hawkes Bay
Otago
Wellington
Waikato / BOP
Nelson / Marlborough
Taranaki
Central Otago Lakes
Canterbury / Westland
Auckland
$0
New Zealand
$100000
Wellington
$200000
35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 -5 -10
Waikato / BOP
$300000
Percentage change in house prices June 2007 - June 2014
Nelson / Marlborough
$400000
New Zealand
$500000
Central Otago Lakes
$600000
Comment from Richard: The differences in prices and rates of price changes impact on the residents of the regions, and also on investors. These differences can and should also influence decisions on where we decide to live and work.
Taranaki
Median Residential Property Prices by Region in June 2007 and June 2014
In contrast, a number of regions have either seen very small changes in their median price over the past seven years or falls in the median price. Eight regions, representing over 43% of the New Zealand real estate market, saw their median price increase by less than the change in the Consumer Price Index over the same period.”
Auckland
The first REINZ chart shows median prices for residential properties in June 2007 and June 2014 for New Zealand and for the twelve regions. The current Auckland median price is close to $600,000, while six of the regions have median prices close to or below $300,000.
prices rise by more than the national median. Combined, these two regions represent over half of the New Zealand real estate market and have dominated the increase in the national median price.
Canterbury / Westland
T
he REINZ news release on 14 July 2014 highlights Richard Pearce the differences in price and performance in the residential property markets across the country. This article is a short review, and the full news release is available at www.reinz.co.nz.
For more real estate information and market trends data, visit www.reinz.co.nz. Disclaimer: The comments and opinions expressed above are my personal views and are NOT those of Barfoot & Thompson. The above is not intended as financial advice, and all persons should make their own decisions based on their personal circumstances and on advice from a number of sources.
The South African
17 Corinthian Drive, Albany, Auckland New Zealand
Immigration Service you can Trust (established 1993)
New Zealand is slowly coming out of the recession and there are now more skilled jobs being advertised in most of our cities. Christchurch will be needing hundreds of skilled people to assist with the rebuild, so trades people as well as civil and other engineering posts are now becoming available. North Shore Immigration with their wealth of experience & sound reputation can assist migrants relocate to New Zealand as providers of highly personalised service, from temporary, permanent and business visas. For those business people that would prefer to work for themselves, they can either start a brand new business in New Zealand or buy an existing business via the Long Term Business Visa. There are also two investor categories of $1.5 million & $10 million. Please contact us for more info at email: sim.woodberg@nsis.co.nz
We provide specialist immigration solutions for: U Residence (Skilled Migrants, Business, Family) U Business Visa (Entrepreneur and/or Investor Categories) U Work Visa (for those who have a job offer, based on their skills & experience) U Work/Student visas for their immediate family members U Student Visas for those who wish to study in New Zealand, and U Job Search/Graduate Work Experience Visas for students who have completed their NZ studies. website: www.nsis.co.nz
We also offer help and assistance with: U unabridged birth certificates U police clearance certificates U passport renewals U translations U assessment of overseas qualifications U obtaining NZ registration for occupations where this is required.
email: info@nsis.co.nz
ph: 09 415 3392
23
*conditions apply *conditions apply
*conditions apply *conditions apply
www.bolliwood.co.nz www.bolliwood.co.nz