Eastlife February 2016

HOWICK, BOTANY, PAKURANGA AND SURROUNDS

eastlife.co.nz

LOVE STORY Planning your

perfect wedding day

February 2016

parade of fashion makeup artist – face value mud and glory

OUT & ABOUT | FASHION | HEALTH & BEAUTY | FOOD | ART | HOME | MOTORING | EVENTS | TRAVEL www.eastlife.co.nz

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MREINZ

total focus

Issue Thirty Two

PROPERTY LTD

Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

Welcome to Issue No 32 of Eastlife

One month on into the year and what a busy time.

We found the holiday period bought with it lots of buyer enquiry, appointments and sales, more so than previous years. Really what could be better if you are thinking of selling, with open home attendances high resulting in multiple offers.

So if you have been contemplating a change of house, city or country, don’t leave it a moment longer, life is short and who knows what tomorrow will bring.

Until next month, take care and make every moment count.

Leigh

WOW - Brand new in Cockle Bay

55B Paparoa Road, Cockle Bay

This new home exemplifies carefree living at its very best.

A real suntrap that offers great flow, privacy and seclusion. All within an easy walk to schools, transport and shops. With either Howick Beach or Cockle Bay just so close for summer fun. Great layout with three bedrooms & two spacious bathrooms and open plan living, dining and kitchen. This home will cater for young professionals, families or those looking for a desirable downsize.

Great value for the astute purchaser www.tfproperty.co.nz - ref:TFP38096

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

"Most men pursue pleasure with such breathless haste that they hurry past it."

Tracey Flack 0278 230 557

Soren Kierkegaard

David Prescott 021 821 131

To have your property featured in Eastlife for next month call one of our team today.

HOME OF THE MONTH - 17 Castleton Drive, Mellons Bay Mellons Bay Magic This superb home has been in the same family since new, and is now available.

Extensively upgraded over the years without loosing the very essence of its style. There is lots on offer here, including a super high stud in the garage that can easily house a trailered boat.

A very valuable position close to the hub of Howick, with an abundance of beaches, cafes and specialty shops at your door. Not to mention Half Moon Bay close by for city commuters and Macleans College for an excellent education.

Your decision to purchase this home will be easy. www.tfproperty.co.nz - ref:TFP38097

Our team!

Greg Roy AREINZ 0274 966 966 Principal

Leigh Roy 021 646 565 Director

Tracey Flack 0278 230 557

111 Picton Street, Howick

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Leigh or Greg Roy 021 646 565 0274 966 966

Lawrence Roy 021 660 085

The “Real Estate Specialists”

David Prescott 021 821 131

Contact us on 5380151

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Lynne Hodges 021 467 940

Lawrence Roy 021 660 085

Paul Charlesworth 027 280 9551

Karen Dawson 538 0151

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ON THE COVER

Back in full swing Gosh, it seems an eon since the team here were celebrating Christmas Hawaiian style at The Lounge in Howick – a fabulous venue with superb food and a marvellous ambience created by Chris Bull and her team.

alk to se for n plan those

8096

Flack 0 557

escott 1 131

LOVE... THAT’S ALL WE NEED! Whenever wedding bells start ringing, alarm bells are never too far away. With so many decisions to make, some flustered brides must wish they’d made a different decision when that simplest of questions was popped in the first place! Fortunately, there is help on hand from expert locals who are veterans at negotiating nuptials.

As our cover suggests, this month we’ve taken on tips about what you need to do before you say ‘I do’. See pages 21-32.

Bay since

oosing n offer e that

owick, ecialty on Bay ge for

Ph 09 271 8020 www.eastlife.co.nz

38097

ce Roy 0 085

Sales: Rachel Watts 09 271 8019, rachel@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Bev Drake 09 271 8092, bev@eastlife.co.nz

Design: Clare McGillivray 09 271 8067, clare@eastlife.co.nz Photography: Wayne Martin Manager: Karla Wairau 09 271 8083, karla@eastlife.co.nz Level 1, The Lane, Botany Town Centre, Botany, Auckland. PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163 Like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/ eastlifemagazine

Dawson 0151

.nz

I enjoyed a very happy break including a couple of days in Rotorua where I managed to catch two movies at my favourite cinema, The Basement – the lads there are terrific. I also went shopping for clothes and appliances (thanks Harvey Norman and Parrots) and I

DISCLAIMER: Articles published in EastLife do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only. Times Newspapers Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this magazine. All the material in this magazine has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times Newspapers Ltd.

www.eastlife.co.nz

On travelling home we stopped at beautiful Woodlands near Gordonton. Last time I was there, the cafe was closed with new owners due to take over. This time, it was up and running (7 days now) and busy – a super spot, with tasty food, overlooking the cricket oval where toys kept kiddies amused while adults sat back and watched.

Once again, the Woodlands gardens – always lovely – were ablaze with vibrant colour, the massed effect of pink and blue hydrangeas giving visitors plenty to admire.

Interestingly, on travelling to and from Rotorua via Gordonton, though the zig-zag of straights to the back of Cambridge, I found the new expressway link had been completed in this part of the Waikato. As we neared Cambridge we were able to turn on to the new road, by-passing the township and the bottleneck that

often occurs there – fantastic.

That was easy driving, but sadly on returning home, I’ve encountered the same old peak time traffic problems – queue jumping, intersection blocking, queue dodging (taking quick routes through company driveways) and the running of red lights. You would have thought we might have learnt from all those holiday accidents.

Well, I could ramble on but really, I should let you all get on and explore our first EastLife of the year – there’s plenty to please so, enjoy!

HELEN PERRY EDITOR

THIS MONTH...

4-5

Editor: Helen Perry 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz

Sales: Rashna Tata 09 271 8091, rashna@eastlife.co.nz

y.

Now, it’s February and the holidays behind many of us, sadly with more road and drowning accidents that we could have imagined. Many families will be grieving. With my own daughter and family camping at a Bay of Plenty beach, I became quite paranoid about the grandchildren especially the three-year-old who thinks he’s a Tarzan in the water.

Thankfully, they had only good times and returned home safely.

discovered a fab new shop, Envy. It has shoes to die for.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Get ready for Fashion Week next month.

Find your style on the catwalk at Alexandra Park – see page 44.

Sponsored by Barfoot & Thompson

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INTERVIEW Tim Webber – designs on furniture

12-13 INTERVIEW Mud in her eye doesn’t worry Jo!

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INTERVIEW All’s ship-shape with Dick Hopper

16-17 INTERVIEW Ramon figures exhibition success

18-19 Q&A Hunua MP Andrew Bayly has his say

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WIN Start the year with a win!

21-32 WEDDINGS • Settle on a theme • Avoid mistakes • Stick to a budget

• Choose a photographer • Dress code unveiled • Menu decisions • Right location • Honeymoon planning

33-43 LIFESTYLE • Romance book pack up for grabs • Colourful India • Tony White keen to nail competition • Puzzle time

44-54 HEALTH, BEAUTY AND FASHION • Fashion • Beauty counter • Have makeup case, will travel

55-61 FOOD • Smoked salmon recipe • Chilled dressings • Taste • Dining Guide

62-71 HOME • My favourite thing • Out of Europe • Dulux • Gardenia • Regular columnists

72-74 BUSINESS • Right ‘Hon’ Key

75-79 SPORT & MOTORING • Former ‘Blossom’ mulls over new Nippon team • Magic Mazda MX5 eastlife | february 2016 |

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February 2016 Valentine’s Day at Stardome February 14, times vary, Stardome Observatory & Planetarium, 670 Manukau Road, One Tree Hill Domain, Epsom What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than to look towards the heavens and realise that this thing called love could go on (and on and on and on and..) forever? Complete with many little romantic goodies, Stardome’s Valentine’s special is sure to inspire even the most jaded of souls. See stardome.org.nz.

➤ theatre & Comedy The Book of Everything February 12-25, Q Theatre, 305 Queen Street, Auckland Forget spending eternity reading a book of everything when we can simply drop by Q where The Book of Everything is compressed into one evening’s entertainment. This stage adaptation of Guus Kuijer’s children’s story of the same name tells the tale of nine-year-old Thomas who sees things that others don’t, including a plague of green frogs, a hailstorm in summer, and tropical fish in the canals of Amsterdam. See qtheatre. co.nz for details.

Pop-up Globe season February 19 – March 22, The Bard’s Yard, 38 Greys Avenue (next to Auckland Town Hall), Auckland City There’s much ado about something as world famous theatre, The Globe, ‘pops up’ in the city. From the 19th night of February, we’ll all know where for art thou Romeo as Viola, Cleo, Prospero, Titus and co’ show they’re more than merely players. A late summer’s night dream schedule

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features plays by the immortal bard including: Romeo & Juliet, Twelfth Night, Much Ado About Nothing, The Tempest, Titus and Antony & Cleopatra. See popupglobe.co.nz.

Michele A’Court – Stuff I forgot to tell my daughter February 26, from 8pm, Uxbridge Creative Centre, 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick When Michele A’Court’s daughter left the nest, her mum spent months remembering many things she neglected to tell her. Following up on her 2015 book by the same name, the award-winning comedian will relay such life lessons – from the right way to store ginger or what feminism’s really all about – in this humorous show. Details at uxbridge.co.nz.

➤ Music & ART Green Gables exhibition February 5-28 (Fridays-Sundays), Green Gables Cottage, Hawthornden Reserve, 66 Cook Street, Howick The Howick Art Group is once again painting our village green with a new exhibition featuring the work of local painters, Rebecca Lynn and Martin Searle. Such regular exhibitions – sales from which help support the good work of South Auckland Totara Hospice – are celebrations of local talent and well worth visiting. See howickartgroup.org.nz.

Jackie Bristow February 12, from 8pm, Uxbridge Creative Centre, 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick After moving to the USA with suitcase and guitar in hand, Kiwi singer/ songwriter, Jackie Bristow, has now found her long and winding road leads back to Uxbridge. Visit uxbridge.co.nz.

The Second Coming.

Organisers say this hilarious cabaret (Feb 17-20) is not to be missed!

Auckland Pride Festival February 5-21, times and venues vary There are many colours in the Kiwi rainbow and all are expected to shine in the Super City soon.

Billed as New Zealand’s ‘biggest and best social and cultural celebration for the Rainbow Community (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Takatapui, Procrustes Bed exhibition Now until February 13, Monterey Art Gallery, 5 Cook Street, Howick Abstract-expressionist photographer, Kristin Hatland, takes inspiration from philosophy in this exhibition as she asks how life can be lived with an imperfect understanding constrained by imperfect knowledge.

A visual commentary on the human condition and our fixation with arbitrary measurements, this photographic series is on show now.

See montereyartgallery.co.nz.

Fly My Pretties February 13, from 5pm, Auckland Zoo, 99 Motions Road, Western Springs Why would EastLifers bother heading west for a gig? Two reasons: Fly My Pretties and Auckland Zoo! Those unfamiliar with this iconic

Photo Chantel Conci

➤ valentine’s day

➤ theatre

Fa’afafine, Intersex, Queer)’ the message is all about inclusivity... all are welcome. Featuring 70 events – from films, debates, workshops, live music, theatre, cabaret, drag and burlesque shows, to pageants, parties and (of course) the Pride Parade – this year’s festival should offer much to love. For full details see aucklandpridefestival.org.nz. collective probably shouldn’t be.

This ensemble, which features some of New Zealand’s top musicians, has met with considerable critical and popular acclaim since founded

by Black Seeds’ frontman, Barnaby Weir in 2004. And what better location for Barnaby’s magical, musical flying circus than the zoo?

See flymypretties.com for more information.

➤ FESTIVALS Summer in the Square (continues) Now-February 19, Aotea Square, Queen Street, Auckland City While Huey Lewis might have thought it was ‘hip to be square’, he was probably the only one! At least, that is, until Summer in the Square began rolling in December. While most

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events are over, there’s still time to head into town for a lovin’ spoonful of summer in the city this month. See aucklandlive.co.nz/summersquare for details.

Tamaki River Festival February 13 (or 14, depending on weather), 10am-4pm, Bramley Reserve, 94 Bramley Dr, Farm Cove Organisers of this event really will be on a roll, should this year’s Tamaki River Festival be as successful as it was in 2015. After making a big splash on the eastern events’ scene during its inaugural staging, the festival is again expected to attract a bumper family crowd keen on such activities as sailing and kayaking, while staying safe in the water. And, from live music to food and stalls, there will be plenty for landlubbers as well.

Heroic Garden Festival February 13-14, various Auckland locations Yes, we need another hero... or 24 for that matter! To read more about this iconic garden tour (and for a sneak preview of gardens which will be on show) see page 68.

Splore Festival February 19-21, 8am-12am, Tapapakanga Regional Park, Deerys Road, Orere Point What’s music to the ears for some may be disorganised noise to others.

However, while many music festivals may put the pedal to the heavy metal, Splore has long been designed to appeal to all. This family-friendy event (with dedicated ‘Kid’s zones) really does look to ex-Splore many musical avenues. See splore.net to learn more.

Central Otago Man February 27 – March 19, matinee and evening shows, Howick Little Theatre, 1 Sir Lloyd Drive, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga

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You can take the southern man out of Otago, but you’ll never take Otago out of the man. In this humorous tale of Central Otago farmer, Tryfen Gribilco, who’s never short on his opinion (to which everyone is entitled), audiences will witness how some can be completely untouched by political correctness. From his bungy jumping platform, Tryfen shares his views with a range of high profile clients including an Aussie senator and an uptight German delegate. See hlt.org.nz.

➤ SPORT, FITNESS & HEALTH Bike Barn Auckland Half Triathlon and Multi Sports Event February 6, 8am-5pm, Kawakawa Bay Reserve, Kawakawa Bay Now, we’re not sure if a half triathlon means participants only cover half the usual distance or if it means they run and bike on one leg and swim with just one arm... it’s not clear. However, it is more likely to be the former. Set

amidst some of the finest scenery Auckland has to offer, this event is suited to those who take life in their stride. More details at aucklandhalf. co.nz.

Botany Town Centre Summer Fun Run & Walk February 14, from 9am, Botany Town Centre, Corner Ti Rakau & Te Irirangi Drives, Botany You know you’re in love when you can trot along with your partner until you’re a pair of sweaty messes yet can still embrace in celebration 5-10km on! Designed for people of all ages and levels of fitness, this run/ walk starts and finishes at Botany Town Centre’s Town Square and is a downright love-ly way to spend Valentine’s Day. For more information (or to register that special someone – what a delightful pressie that would make!), see runandwalk.co.nz.

Body in Action From February 20, 10am-5pm, MOTAT, 805 Great North Road,

Westerns Springs For some, the toilet is a functional, mundane item; for others, it is the basis of an intricate, sophisticated culture of humour. However, for MOTAT, smelly toilets are just part of the museum’s new, interactive, family-focused exhibition, Body in Action. From smelly toilets, to a giant nose, a huge mouth, and a heart that never stops beating, this exhibition explores the colourful and exciting ways our bodies work. See motat.org. nz for details.

➤ MARKETS Howick Village Market First Saturday in March then every first & third Saturday of the month until October, 8am-12.30pm, Picton St, Howick Pine Harbour Fresh Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Pine Harbour Marina, Jack Lachlan Dr, Beachlands Clevedon Village Farmers’ Market Every Sunday, 8.30am-12pm, Clevedon Showgrounds, Monument Rd, Clevedon Clevedon Village Market Every Sunday, 9am-2pm, Clevedon Community Centre, 1 PapakuraClevedon Rd, Clevedon Pakuranga Night Market Every Saturday night, 6pm-12midnight, under The Warehouse, Pakuranga Plaza

➤ SPORT New Zealand Polo Open February 21, from 10.30am, Auckland Polo Club, Fisher Field Grounds, 102 ClevedonKawakawa Rd, Auckland While polo may widely be considered the sport of kings, these days it’s not just royals who’re up for a chukka or two. In its 49th year, the New Zealand

Polo Open is again expected to impress both those who marvel with the mallet and those who stick to stomping the divots. In addition to the matches, the open provides plenty of entertainment, including a race between a pony and a high performance car and prizes for the best-dressed. See aucklandpolo.co.nz.

Botany Night Market Every Wednesday night, 5.30-11pm, beneath Hoyts Cinema, Botany Town Centre Alfriston Country Market First Saturday of each month except January, 9am-12pm, Alfriston Community Hall, Mill Road, Alfriston

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Out of the woodwork Tim Webber’s ‘clean and simple’ furniture designs winning global applause.

Photo Wayne Martin

Not many entrepreneurs under the age of 30 can lay claim to owning a global furniture business, but one Howick lad has carved his own niche in the industry, and a successful one at that. He explains to NATALIE BRITTAN how he took his business from concept to reality.

It seems taking a shine to natural wood from an early age has meant only success for one talented young man.

good 15 years on me but hopefully I can get to where they are now, maybe sooner.

This year, Tim hopes to gain a footing in the European market, and to exhibit at the New York, Milan and London furniture shows the following year.

Having established a space last year in BLOC, a premier lifestyle and design store in Mount Eden, furniture designer Tim Webber, looks set for a stellar year. Incidentally, he showcased his first collection at the stunning retail concept nearly five years ago, making this fresh move a homecoming of sorts.

The brand is also looking to expand to softer furnishings such as sofas for residential and commercial projects.

And with a polished architect and interior design client portfolio reading like that of Jasmax, Warren and Mahoney, Unispace and Resene Designer, it seems Tim won’t be short of work.

Tim’s journey began in Howick, with entrepreneur parents encouraging him to explore his creativity. Mother, Sue, owned the former Living at Home store in Howick (now 101 Howick), and father Paul, ran a business importing plywood.

In fact, one of his creations, a coffee table made during Year 12 at Macleans College, ended up sitting in his parents’ lounge for “a good 10 years” before being replaced by newer designs. Tim says the solid oak furniture was his “first real piece” and sparked his interest in a design degree.

After finishing school, Tim enrolled at Unitec in Mount Albert embarking on a degree in 3D design and furniture sculpture.

After graduating he launched Tim Webber Design, and despite being a newcomer, the response was

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Tim Webber almost immediate. Citing his family as his pillar of support, Tim says it’s been an amazing ride. “I was really fortunate to receive exposure through awards, nominations and magazines which led to winning the Design Folio Incubator Award in 2012,” he says.

Now, his signature, pared-down look is well-recognised in design circles and Tim Webber Design is expanding worldwide, with stores already established in Australia and a distributor in Asia. “I like to keep everything clean and simple,” Tim says. “It’s quite a stripped back

aesthetic, nothing overly ornate.

It’s letting the materials speak for themselves.”

Inspired by home grown names such as David Trubridge (renowned for his geometric light fixtures), Jamie McLellan and Simon James, Tim says, thanks to their trail-blazing work, New Zealand designs are going global.

However, when reminded he could be one of them, albeit they have a significant head start, he smiles modestly. “They probably have a

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The industrial location, close to suppliers and manufacturers, enables Tim to keep an eye on the quality of his designs. “I like to think that there’s a sense of unity with our collection. We try and set ourselves parameters within a certain aesthetic but without limiting ourselves to designing the same things each time.”

Tim’s passion and motivation remain part and parcel of the production process. “The most rewarding part is being able to create a piece of furniture and see people use it in their daily life. It’s quite unique to have that connection with people and really neat to see things pop up here and there.” www.eastlife.co.nz

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He says the surplus material gave him a good starting point. “I’ve always had an interest in making and doing stuff with my hands all through growing up and realised I enjoyed it.”

Married and still based in Howick, he says the seaside suburb gives him a relaxed start in the morning. “Some mornings I like to go to cafes such as The Apothecary, work from there and miss the rush hour before going to my studio in Onehunga.”

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A million each way...

If the purse for New Zealand’s richest horse race was a million dollars then it stands to reason that punters would also look a million dollars for the glamorous Karaka Million run at Ellerslie Racecourse last month. Youngsters sold at the 2015 New Zealand Bloodstock yearling sales qualified to race and it was Xiong Feng, sired by Haunui Farm stallion Iffraaj which crossed the finish line first. Photographer GARRY BRANDON was there.

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1. Leslie Browne & David King 2. Sarah Ellis & Nick Moodie 3. Cecilia O’Gorman & Julie McGrath 4. Melissa Davies, Andrew & Kate Gourdie 5. Nicky Clarke & Michael Tuck 6. Anna Stenberg, Sarah Workers, Libby O’Sullivan 7. Grant Morgan & Jennifer Bortels 8. Amanda Schlegel & Laura Fairall 9. Lauren Brennan & Emma-Lee Browne 10. Olga Sherwin, Tatiana Skorik 11. Ellie Brassey & Lauren O’Callaghan 12. Krystal Ng & Victoria Chen 13. Kate Plaw & Georgie Connolly 14. Michelle Heath-Young & Franchelle Oughton 15. Lynn Hancock & Katie Ryan

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Ambient Pine Harbour The weather turned on the sun as Pohutukawa Coast residents and visitors enjoyed the relaxed mood at Pine Harbour Fresh Markets recently. Photographer JANET KEELING took time out to capture the character of the marina and surrounds.

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Mud, sweat, tears – WHAT A DODDLE

Little piggies love to wallow in mud but they aren’t the only ones.

There’s a breed of fit, tough athletes who have embraced the sport of mud running, testing their grit and endurance to the limit. HELEN PERRY spoke to a local athlete who revels in the challenge.

There nothing Jo Juddery likes better than to get down and dirty in a sport designed to measure not just physical strength but mental steel. But, for her, it’s mainly about challenging personal boundaries whilst still having fun.

However, some might question where’s the fun in tackling a six kilometre obstacle course – where mud, and lots of it, is a given – in a long gown, tiara and carrying a cigarette holder complete with cigarette.

“That was at Tough Guy and Gal in Rotorua a few months back.

Admittedly, it was heavy going dragging through thigh-deep mud in a long dress. The cigarette didn’t fare too well either but it was a hoot,” says the Botany local.

“Teams often compete in costume and there are prizes. At that event our team – me as Audrey Hepburn, Sally Lush as Marilyn Monroe and Kayleen Currie as Liza Minnelli – took out best costume and won a $100 voucher to a local pub.”

While mud running definitely has its lighter moments, courses are challenging and not for everyone.

“For me it all started a couple of years back when I was doing a 12-week fitness challenge. A few of us, including Sally and Kayleen, had heard about the Tough Guy and Gal run and decided to give it a go.

“It turned out to be great fun. The obstacles weren’t too difficult and six kilometres proved to be a good starting point for amateurs.”

This event has now become a regular for Jo and Co but last year the trio, along with Elroy Shum, decided to also compete at Tough Mudder in Sydney.

“That was a whole new ball game,” Jo says. “Covering 20 kilometres with 23 obstacles took real resolve. You can’t do it alone. It requires a lot of training and then a lot of teamwork. It’s also

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helpful to have a great trainer to get you through.”

Jo’s usual training routine involves boot camp three mornings a week and a regular run. But before heading to Sydney she and Kayleen worked out with Commando Steve from FitForce.

“Steve’s an ex-British commando who had done the course so knew the kind of stamina it needed to get to the end. We did boot camp with him at Eastern Beach and he gave us heaps of advice on obstacle techniques and the right shoes to wear. This course was a huge step up and wearing the correct shoes made a big difference.”

Jo’s team also completed the eight kilometre Meremere, Mudd Rush as part of their pre-Sydney training.

“The obstacles were more difficult, giving us a taste of things to come but nothing really prepares you for a course like Tough Mudder. It took us about four and a half hours and there were times when we were struggling through chest high mud. It was exhausting.

“One obstacle involved a five metre high platform sitting over water. It took five or so competitors at a time.

The challenge was to leap out, grab a t-bar, swing to hit a bell then drop to the water below.

“The leap was counted down, ‘one, two three, go’. When it was my group’s turn, four leapt but I just stood there thinking to myself, ‘I can’t do this, I just can’t.’

“We had a second go and I still couldn’t make the leap. That’s when everyone starting yelling, egging me on and telling me ‘you can do it, you’re a mudder’. Their support was so encouraging; it was third time lucky! I leapt, missed the bar and landed in the water. But at least I tried and next year I’m gonna get it!”

Despite one or two ‘hairy’ moments Jo says at no time did she feel like giving up.

Top: Tough Mudders (from left) Elroy, Sally, Jo and Kayleen celebrate their achievement. Bottom: If Jo didn’t quite make short work of the Tough Mudder contest she sure shows the grit needed to mud-dle her way through!

“This was a fitness goal I had set myself, I knew what it would be like and considered it a personal challenge. What’s more I actually enjoyed it. When I finished, it was the most amazing feeling; I was on a high for a week and extremely proud of myself.”

Now completely dedicated to the sport, Jo says she has amazed herself.

“I was never really sporty. A bit of netball at primary school then softball at college follow by social netball when my son and daughter were little. But that’s about it “In fact, I recently said to my mum, ‘I’ve just taken out travel insurance for extreme sports. Did you ever think I’d be that girl?”

And now Jo’s children are taking an interest. Son Blaine (15) is set to do his second Tough Guy and Gal in

Auckland while 17 year-old daughter, Devon will, for the first time, join her brother and mum on the Run for your Freakin’ Life course at Spookers in Kingseat later this year.

“The Spookers mud run really is fun,” says Jo. “When Kayleen, Sally and I did it we were laughing and screaming throughout the course and all the time being chased by zombies.

Great stuff.”

Despite the hardiness needed for any mud run and the exhaustion that comes from competing, Jo has no intention of giving up anytime soon.

“A lot of people get to a certain age and think they’re past it but I don’t like to put limitations on myself. This is certainly not something I thought I’d be doing at 44, but here I am. I love it; mud is in my blood, now!”

J

www.eastlife.co.nz

Photo Wayn

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29/01/2016 3:37:01 p.m.

‘

A lot of people get to a certain age and think they’re past it but I don’t like to put limitations on myself. This is certainly not something I thought I’d be doing at 44, but here I am. I love it; mud is in my blood, now!”

JO JUDDERY www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | february 2016 |

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Photo Wayne Martin

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29/01/2016 3:37:06 p.m.

Model mariner’s mast-er craft One man’s passion may be another’s distraction – some play bridge, while others undertake any number of crafts to occupy spare time. But Dick Hopper’s hobby doesn’t just pass the time, as he explained to JON RAWLINSON, it quite literally floats his boat.

Invited into his Ryman Village home in Howick, I’m immediately made to feel welcome aboard as the consummate gent talks about his latest project, HMNZS Taranaki. Built from scratch using actual ship’s plans (rather than kits) virtually all Dick’s models are genuine replicas.

“It’s the third Taranaki I’ve built. I sell the models with their plans, so it’s the only set I have left. I’m in no hurry, but it should be ready soon enough. I don’t intend to sell this one, though, and look forward to launching it on a new pond Ryman Village is constructing.”

So, Dick will soon be beside the seaside again... well, almost; expected for completion next month, the pond will boast all im-port-ant features, including an access gateway and launching platform.

Most admiral-ably, he’s hoping this addition will encourage others to harbour an interest in his lifelong hobby.

“I want to get other residents involved – we’ve also put on static displays in the past – and when we have an opening ceremony [for the pond] I’d love residents’ grandchildren to come along so we can put on a performance for them as well,” he says.

As Dick usually restricts sales of his models to locals, there’s liable to be quite the armada assembled when the boats go in.

“While some end up in prominent places – another Taranaki is in the Civic Centre in New Plymouth, for example – I generally sell them locally. So, when we put on our show, I’ll be able to summon 12-15 ships. In

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‘

Photo Wayne Martin

What to say when first meeting a maritime enthusiast and prolific radio-controlled, scale model shipbuilder such as Dick Hopper? The words ‘ahoy there, matey’, toy across my lips; instead, I simply say, hello.

[All the models are] pretty sizeable; in fact, one of the cruisers, HMS Royalist, was so heavy my assistants actually gave her the nickname HMS Hernia!”

fact, the owners of the ocean liners I’ve built are all locals.”

Although warships are his stock and trade, the Strathmore, Pretoria Castle and Northern Star liners carry particular significance for Dick.

Born in India, where his father was a tea plantation manager, Dick and family travelled to England on the first of these craft. Years on, aged 18, he set sail on the second to Rhodesia, and the Northern Star later carried him to New Zealand.

“They’re all part of my family history,” he explains, “So, in particular, I didn’t want to lose those ones entirely.”

Of hands-on Hopper Since living in England as a child, not too far from the Royal Naval base in Plymouth, Dick Hopper has been enamoured with the navy. However, it wasn’t until serving with the British South Africa Police in Rhodesia that his hobby of constructing model ships fully set sail.

Dick Hopper with some of his models, including the HMNZS Otago in the foreground.

“When I was 18, I saw a job advert with a picture of a police trooper with his horse, I went straight up to Rhodesia House and signed on, simple as that. It was about the adventure, but also to avoid compulsory military service... and to get out of the miserable English weather, of course!”

“So, ironically, I built my first model [of the Cutty Sark] from a kit in a landlocked country,” he laughs.

When his South African bride’s family immigrated to New Zealand, Dick, his wife Lyn and young daughter, Nikki, soon followed. Since then, Dick has constructed approximately 40 models, generally to 1/96 scale (liners) and 1/48 scale (warships).

On average, and depending on complexity, the models require roughly two years’ effort. While he says his grand old (HMS) Duke of York probably took the longest to construct, his favourite warship is the aircraft carrier, HMS Illustrious (or should that be illustriousi? – he’s built two).

“I built the [Second World] wartime one, which went to the relief of Malta, and the Falkland’s War version. As a complete warship – and incorporating many aircraft types – it’s the epitome of a fighting vessel.”

Now retired, Dick has a little more time for his hobby, without a day job in insurance to contend with.

By selling the models on, he says he hasn’t ‘sunk’ too much money into his endeavours, which occupy roughly 10 hours of his week.

“I’ve sold them all, typically for about $3000 each. Because that only works out at about $10 an hour, it hasn’t made me rich, but has stopped me going broke! Of course, it’s about the enjoyment, not the money.

“They’re all pretty sizeable; in fact, one of the cruisers, HMS Royalist, was so heavy my assistants actually gave her the nickname HMS Hernia!

No wonder Lyn declines to even carry one end,” he laughs. “But she’s been great and never begrudged my hobby.”

The interview is at an end but after I’ve spent too much company time nautically speaking, I fire a cheeky parting shot across Dick’s bows by asking: “Considering you’re living at Ryman’s Bruce McLaren village, isn’t it about time you switched from building model ships to racing cars?”

He replies in jest: “Wash your mouth out!”

I guess he’s joking! www.eastlife.co.nz 02182

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Photo Wayne Martin

BMW Derby Day Saturday 5th March 2016 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup Day Saturday 12th March 2016 Tickets & more ellerslie.co.nz

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eastlife | february 2016 |

15

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29/01/2016 3:37:23 p.m.

Great Scott!

Sculptor’s fine figures If gardening is the art that uses flowers and plants as paint and the soil and sky as canvas then it could be said sculpture adds the character. With this in mind, Sculpture in the Gardens 2015/16 at Auckland Botanic Gardens has just this month to run and is a ‘must see’. HELEN PERRY spoke to Howick sculptor Ramon Robertson whose work impacts on visitors as they enter the gardens from the Huakaiwaka Visitor Centre.

The blue eyes, fair skin and Scottish accent of Ramon Robertson seems at odds with his Christian name. It’s not until he explains his mother is Spanish that all is clear. Nevertheless, it is still difficult to reconcile the two.

While much of Ramon’s work may seem straight forward on the surface, it is perhaps necessary to be more than a casual observer to understand underlying themes and to appreciate incorporated touches of humour.

And, it is just as difficult to reconcile the family man – partner of Suzanne for 23 years and attentive dad to Nico (6) and Ruben (8) – with the artist whose ‘studio’ is a cramped space under the house in the midst of domestic clutter.

Furthermore, while interest might initially zero in on a figurine, it is quickly apparent that the supporting structure is equally part of the sculpture. For example, presently working on a piece entitled, Armadillo, the lower portion of bricks and timber, on which the bust is mounted, is integral part of the sculpture.

But it is there where he concentrates on figurines that depict the somewhat utilitarian world of architecture and urbanisation.

“Mass production and standardisation of objects is very much part of my focus especially evaluating the more unconventional nature of ‘so-called’ utilitarian objects,” says Ramon, whose 2D and 3D artworks have included installations, sculpture, furniture and products as well as elements of film and lighting.

But his passion is for figurines, with architects, and their role, central to many pieces. More so, it is the way his work expresses his view of these professionals, their personality and how their environment impacts on them that is intriguing.

“Having worked with both architects and furniture designers and also done a post graduate Masters in Interior Design, I find this an interesting area to research and subsequently it has become a major part of my [sculpting] focus,” Ramon says.

“In particular, I explore themes linked to human conditions and behaviour in the city and I’m intrigued at how gravity is fundamental to an architect’s role.”

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Ramon Robertson with his work (right) titled, Only in the World, which appeared at Onshore Sculpture.

“In this piece, it reflects how reclaimed land in Te Atatu largely comprises a deep layer of topsoil beneath which one can find all kinds of rubble – plastic, bricks, concrete timber and more.”

Ramon says many artists are conditioned to their environment and will let that influence their work. “But I enjoy reading and research which tends to guide my work.”

And if the traditional perception of a sculptor chipping away at a block of stone with hammer and chisel still prevails, then it is a far cry from modern day sculptors such as Ramon.

“I work with moulds, casting and modelling and use materials such as resin, silicone and concrete and my present work, including that at the Botanic Gardens, definitely reflects those periods in which I worked with architects and furniture or product designers.”

Ramon’s sculpture, titled Gravity Bag at Sculpture in the Gardens (pictured) is a black timber tower standing at 280cm with a group of 15 concrete

figures standing on top. The figures depict those involved in the design, development and building of the city.

However, like most full time artists Ramon cannot rely solely on exhibition sales and commissions to support his family. So while a day seldom goes by when he is not

at work in his ‘studio’, he might be running workshops at the likes of the Whitecliffe College of Fine Arts and Design and the Uxbridge Creative Centre or delivering talks at various galleries.

And in light of his teaching work, Ramon sees a need to encourage www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:37:28 p.m.

Photo Wayne Martin

‘

I work with moulds, casting and modelling and use materials such as resin, silicone and concrete and my present work, including that at the Botanic Gardens, definitely reflects those periods in which I worked with architects and furniture or product designers.”

young, upcoming talent. Given the chance to be Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage for a day, he says he’d love to turn every school into an art school for one year with the aim of boosting lateral and creative thinking in youngsters.

Shaping a new life It’s nearly five years since sculptor Ramon Robertson and his family left behind life in hometown Glasgow and headed for unknown New Zealand.

life. So without really thinking too much about it we settled on New Zealand on the strength of Dad’s experience.”

“It would be fascinating to see the outcome.”

“We knew very little about the country except that my father was here for about nine months some 20 years previously. He said it was a nice country,” Ramon says.

A graduate of the Glasgow School of Art with a BA Honours Degree in Fine Art Sculpture in 1992, Ramon later completed a MA in Interior Design at Manchester Metropolitan University.

And on a personal note, his idea of a scintillating night around the dinner table would be to invite over singer/ songwriter, composer and actor, Tom Waits for his entertainment and banter, author and director, Paul Auster for his interesting point of view on people and life, and Italian artist, Lara Favaretto for ephemeral and interesting installations and ideas.

“This mix would make for a adsorbing dinner set up of creatives and would be sure to generate some stimulating conversation and ideas.” www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife february 2016.indd 17

“Before having our family, my partner Suzanne and I spent three years in Spain (my mother’s homeland) but really the weather there was just too hot for us to consider moving there permanently.”

The couple returned to Glasgow and for nine years Ramon worked as an artist, designer and tertiary lecturer.

“But we were keen to explore a new

He undertook sculpture and installation projects related to interiors and architecture for this latter degree which has since influenced a large portion of his work.

“Since arriving in Auckland and settling in Howick, I’ve been able to continue my work as an artist and I’ve been encouraged by the city’s galleries being very open to and

supportive of new artists. As a result I’ve exhibited at various Auckland and Waiheke galleries and last year, I also participated in the Estuary Art Awards at the Malcolm Smith Gallery here in Howick.”

Ramon’s works have also appeared at NKB Gallery in Mt Eden, Pah Homestead, the Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens, the Harbourview Sculpture Trail, Black Asterisk Gallery and many more.

Other projects include a five year collaboration with artists, designers and architects under the name of ‘Transit’ in Manchester, UK and an on-going project called ‘vollov’, an experimental project investigating aspects of the built environment and visual and physical interactions in the city. eastlife | february 2016 |

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Q&A

with HUNUA MP

Andrew Bayly

Politics is a tough business, even for an ex-territorial paratrooper and former accountant, Andrew Bayly.

More than a year on from sweeping to victory in one of our local electorates (Hunua) at the 2014 general elections, National’s man on the home front answered a few questions about his life representing the man on the land.

How have you settled in as a new man in parliament?

I’ve settled in well. It’s great to be working for the people of Hunua locally as well as being the elected representative in the capital. It is intellectually stimulating.

Despite being a new candidate, you claimed more than 67% of the Hunua vote. However, in day to day politics does size (of majority) really matter?

Under MMP the really important number is the party vote. However, being the elected member in the fourth-highest polling electorate seat certainly offers its advantages and is a privilege. I would say, from an electorate perspective, I never regard myself as a National MP. I’m here to represent everyone in the electorate, whatever their allegiances.

I always wanted to be an MP. However, I had decided that I only wanted to represent the area where I live and have an association.

When Dr Paul Hutchison decided to step down, my wife and I visited numerous people throughout the electorate to find out what they wanted in their next representative.

Following this, I put my name forward and was lucky to be the one selected.

Has Dr Hutchison been a tough act to follow?

Following any MP who has occupied the seat for 15 years is a hard act to follow. However, I am fortunate that one of Paul’s key staff members stayed on to work in my Pukekohe office, which offers some continuity.

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Photo Wayne Martin

When and why did you decide to throw your hat into the ring and join the political circus?

Is politics proving more thrilling than the dizzying world of accountancy?

It’s different. I look back at my previous career as something I enjoyed but, now, I’m in a totally different role with all the intellectual stimulation that brings. It is, however, good to be able to draw on my business experience here in parliament. There are few MPs with long-term business backgrounds.

Hunua is largely a rural constituency.

Has your farming background been useful in representing its people?

Yes. Not only did I know a number of the growers in the electorate (through my composting business) but it helps to also have an appreciation of the way of life on a farm. As a former sheep and beef farm owner, I really enjoy visiting the local school calf clubs – 17 of them this year!

Hunua is experiencing growth as Aucklanders move into the area.

Despite the new developments, how important is it for the area to retain its rural lifestyle?

You’re certainly right about the growth. I’ve logged every

development I’ve come across within the electorate, and now know that there will be about 13,000 new sections offered for sale over the next six years, representing about 30,000 new people. It is vital this growth is confined to appropriate areas to protect our rural and urban lifestyles.

The other significant issue is the absolute need for additional infrastructure. Unfortunately, because no one had previously plotted all the developments, this has led to a gross under-estimation of the growth, which now means www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:37:36 p.m.

‘ we are in catch-up mode to get the infrastructure investment we need.

Are you in favour of more residential development of less productive land in Hunua proper in the near future? If so, why? If not, why not?

Of course. I am horrified that parts of the elite soils around Pukekohe hill are now identified as an area for future development in the proposed Auckland Plan. How this occurred I’m not sure, but we all need to take local responsibility for shaping our living environment – not some planner sitting in a downtown Auckland office.

Having trekked to the South Pole, climbed mountains (in New Zealand and Antarctica) and competed in Coast-to-Coasts, marathons and Ironman events, what is the essential element in mastering a challenge?

I’ve logged every development I’ve come across within the electorate, and now know that there will be about 13,000 new sections offered for sale over the next six years, representing about 30,000 new people. It is vital this growth is confined to appropriate areas to protect our rural and urban lifestyles.

All these various pursuits have elements that test you. The common theme to succeed is, however, always the same. Be well prepared, work hard and, perhaps most of all, have a sense of humour.

Is politics more a sprint or does it require marathon men?

Definitely a marathon. When you first become an MP, nobody gives much credit for what you may have done before. You need to earn respect. I’ve set aside 15 years to run this one.

Which portfolio would you most like going forward? Any aspirations to one day switch the letters ‘MP’ around to read ‘PM’?

I’ve always been interested in finance and our environment in particular. I would certainly have an interest in being involved in a finance capacity. However, in politics you have to be ready for whatever challenges and positions come your way – they may not always be in your comfort zone.

As to the second, I’m only a year into this job. Far too early to look into the crystal ball, I’d say!

If you could be Prime Minister for one day, what would you do first and why?

My first visit would be to the Hunua electorate to thank everybody for their support! Where else would you possibly go?

If you could invite any three politicians/statesmen/world leaders (living or dead) to dinner, who and why?

Winston Churchill. A man of much energy, having been a soldier, correspondent, sportsman, artist, author and politician. What a fascinating evening that would be!

Roman statesman, Cicero, said: “Politicians are not born; they are excreted.” Fair comment?

I prefer one of his other quotes: If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.

Unfortunately, Mr Bayly only provided one dinner guest. Maybe that means the remaining two places are reserved for us! (Ed)

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eastlife | february 2016 |

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Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit www.eastlife.co.nz click on the competitions link and fill in the form. One entry per email address / person; entries close February 29, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

WIN! NATUREZ H’ART OUTDOOR WALL ART

WIN! BOLLÉ POLARISED SUNGLASSES

Wherever there’s a Wilma, there are signs of good taste! As these rustic, yet sophisticated, pieces show, Waikato clay artist, Wilma Jennings, takes nature as her muse. But, whether we’re a-mused by her work or not, there’s no doubt her art is sculptured from the heart. Although designed to feature outdoors, these pieces can be hung indoors instead, providing a touch of class to any home or bach.

Who has an eye for stylish sunnies? If that’s you, then focus on this fab pair of bollé polarised sunglasses up for grabs in EastLife thanks to Howick Village Optometrists . Durable, comfortable and functional, they are designed to help protect eyes from damage by UV (ultra-violet rays), bright and blue light. The polarised lenses help cut glare from reflected light which makes these a great fit for fishing fans, boaties, most sportspeople and just anyone keen to prevent eye damage from the sun.

WIN! A NUTRIMETICS BEAUTY PACK When it comes to simplifying that beauty regime, Nutrimetics has nailed it! Not only does this handy pack contain a Chic Colour Nail Varnish, it also features an NC Neutral Eyes Eyeshadow Palette, a MarbleEyes Eyeshadow, two Hydra Brilliance Lipsticks, and a DD Crème & Corrector. Valued at $180, this pack offers a great way to refresh your beauty bag with one foul swoop!

WIN! A NATURAL INSTINCT SUNSCREEN PACK Although summer will soon be over, UV rays will never go away! Even on cloudy days and during autumn, spring or winter, sunburn can strike with more serious health issues possibly to follow. However, Natural Instinct’s sunscreens – Invisible Natural Sunscreen, Tinted Face Natural Sunscreen and Natural Sunscreen – offer SPF 30 defence against UVA and UVB rays, so they’re perfect outdoor companions year round. EastLife has a prize pack featuring all three products mentioned, valued at $67 up for grabs.

WIN! NEW ZEALAND – A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY Over summer, many of us may have been out and about exploring this glorious country of ours. However, those smart phone, quick snap, dodgy amateur shots never really cut the mustard, do they? Fortunately, Todd and Sarah Sisson have done the hard work for us cataloguing our country from top to bottom in a delightful book loaded with stunning, professional photos. If New Zealand’s so pretty she ought to be in pictures, then the Sissons seem the perfect pair to be on the take! EastLife has TWO copies up for grabs.

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WIN! A FOODIE PRIZE PACK Despite an indulgent summer, there’s always a mood for good food! So, to help one local foodie enjoy some of the nice rice of life, we have a special prize pack up for grabs. Including three bags full (yes, sir!) of Real Foods’ Rice Thins, a jar of Rice Syrup, and a bottle of Raw Apple Cider Vinegar (both from Chantal Organics) to boot, this pack is a sweet and sour dish best served... now! All three products are available from supermarkets and/or health food stores.

For last month’s EastLife winners visit www.eastlife.co.nz/competitions 20 | eastlife | february 2016

eastlife february 2016.indd 20

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:37:52 p.m.

the

Bride

guide

Pink roses symbolise, love, happiness and mutual admiration, all qualities every bride and groom hope for in their marriage. And, on their special day, that will be very much their focus. However, in this month’s bridal feature EastLife looks particularly at some of the important groundwork that needs to be done long in advance of walking down the aisle. Setting the budget, venue bookings – ceremony, reception, honeymoon – as well as, photographer, celebrant and several smaller essentials must be considered as early as possible. If left, first choices may not be available.

So, in this issue, we offer some advice on what to do first!

Theme

choosing a Over the past couple of decades a lot more thought has gone into planning wedding themes. So, begin by choosing a theme that will be the foundation of your wedding and will influence the way the day plays out, but be sure choices can be accommodated within budget.

allow you both to circulate around the room and there won’t be any uncomfortable lulls. A good DJ will adapt to the age and tastes of the guests and keep the momentum going. Just be sure that whoever is hired can entertain according to your theme.

Your theme will guide you through your clothing and decorating choices.

It will even determine the wedding favours you offer and, perhaps, the type of meal served.

SOME IDEAS FOR SURPRISING YOUR GUESTS

The theme can be a colour or combination of colours, an era or a season, a country or a culture, an object or a shared passion. Above all, it should reflect both your personalities.

♥ Set up a photo booth with wacky accessories. ♥ Provide a guest book that can be a decorative item in your home after the reception.

♥ Release disposable lanterns into the sky when it gets dark, or plan some fireworks.

ENTERTAINMENT AND MUSIC

♥ Work out a dance routine to perform together or with your wedding party.

♥ Hire a magician, a croupier with casino tables, or a caricaturist to entertain your guests.

♥ Have a karaoke machine for later on at the reception.

♥ Serve custom cocktails, poured by a professional bartender who

If you hire an entertainer along with a DJ or musicians, you and your guest will have a lot of fun. This will

♥ Plan a unique arrival at the reception.

Love one another and you will be happy.

It is as simple and as difficult as that. – Anon can juggle bottles and do some spectacular conjuring tricks.

Creating atmosphere is the secret to your reception. So start planning early, keep your theme within means – a memorable and successful day doesn’t have to break the bank.

Sometimes, less is more!

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eastlife | february 2016 |

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021 253 7461 • fmurray@orcon.net.nz felicitymurraycelebrant.co.nz facebook.com/facilitymurraycelebrant

11851

02203

Phone 09 535 4403

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seats up to 100

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:37:54 p.m.

Wedding budgets

– not to be ignored

Are you in search of some ideas for a wedding that won’t leave you and your new spouse in debt for the next 10 years? Here are a few tips on how to organise a memorable wedding that won’t break your newly joined budgets.

The happiest people don’t have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything. – Anon

First of all, it’s not necessarily a thrifty move to limit the number of guests you invite. In many cases, inviting one or two extra valued guests to a wedding may not cost you anything.

In these modern times, when couples often live together before marriage and have all their household goods, guests will forego traditional gifts and give money which may be more than the cost of their meal. So, where the budget dictates a certain limit, it may be possible to invite more if you are aware of monetary gifts.

Traditional printed invitations are becoming a thing of the past. More people are opting to make their own with stationery shop art materials or using a graphic design programme on their computer. Many also send digital invitations which saves on materials, mailing and delays in responses.

Alternatively choose a venue that needs very little decorating.

Bear in mind that decorations can be cost effective and still tasteful.

These days it’s easy to source attractive centrepieces from a florist, hire service or even from some department or haberdasherystyle stores. Carrying out you own decoration can save money.

Guest favours don’t need to flamboyant or expensive either.

Too often, among all the festivities, these are left behind on tables as guests depart. It is easy to produce attractive favours very simply.

When planning how to integrate alcohol into your reception, moderation is the key. Open bars can lead to indelicate behaviour and can also be very expensive.

Instead, opt for a cash bar with only complimentary wine on the table for toasts.

Why not buy bulk chocolates

If the cost of a reception venue is

If you do organise centrepieces for the tables, perhaps these can double as thank-you gifts for people who have assisted with the wedding – Master of Ceremonies, friends who helped with decorating and others.

wrapped in foil matching your theme colour. Pick up organza bags from a $1, $2, $3 Dollar shop, tie with pretty ribbon and they will be appreciated every bit as much as an expensive soap or perfume with a fragrance which doesn’t suit everyone.

proving formidable, think about down-sizing and booking your favourite restaurant instead. Many won’t charge extra for the venue if you have booked it out. Choose a simplified version of the usual menu and most owners will charge only the regular menu price. In fact, with a booked out house, a cheaper three-course meal price may even be negotiated.

Lastly, think about choosing a wedding date just before or just after the high season or even mid-week.

Costs peak in the high season and weekends whereas at other times, discounts can be negotiated.

PLANNING YOUR WEDDING? PLAN YOUR WEDDING BUDGET BE DEBT FREE AND WORRY FREE ON YOUR BIG DAY AND SORT YOUR FUTURE WITH YOUR OWN FINANCIAL PERSONAL TRAINER! At enableMe we empower New Zealanders to get in control and get ahead with smart tips, support and ongoing coaching. Tips you can apply to planning your wedding budget, paying for your first home together and more. The sooner you start to plan, the better – it’s not too late – your financial personal trainer will set you on the right track.

Dianne Barlow is a Chartered Accountant and Registered Financial Adviser. She is the owner and Financial Personal Trainer at the Manukau based franchise.

To find out more and book an obligation-free consultation with your local Financial Personal Trainer visit enableMe.co.nz. Enter the special code ‘EastLife’ when booking online and save $200 off the cost of your consultation, making it just $100+GST! (Usually $300+GST) 01810

For more information visit www.enableme.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

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of a shutter

It is not easy to depict all those spontaneous moments and special looks between husband and wife as well as compiling stunning formal images, so choose carefully.

If the weather is bad and the lighting terrible, don’t panic; photo sessions can be scheduled a few days before or after the wedding. A good photographer will know how to immortalise your union in an unusual and entrancing way.

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Preserving memories of your wedding day is important and to ensure the best moments are beautifully captured, it’s wise to use a professional wedding photographer who knows how to be unobtrusive, to cope with varying degrees of light and has the equipment, the skill and the creativity to superbly record events.

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However, before the big day make up a list of those ‘must have’ photos – for example, some taken at the bride’s home as she readies herself for the events ahead.

These may include some relaxed breakfast shots with mum before ‘dress-up begins; bride and attendants having their hair and makeup done and one or two special moments in the garden just before departing for the ceremony.

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Consider photos of the ceremony itself, walking down the aisle, the moment you say, ‘I do’, signing of the register, and others.

Afterwards you may want a collective group shot – bridal party and weddings guests. Various family groupings will be required too. There may even be a pet, person or place you want included in your album.

Mobile: 021 174 1782 Email: Rachelmackwood@yahoo.co.nz Website: www.rachelmackwood.co.nz Facebook: RM Creative Beauty 24 | eastlife | february 2016

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From this day forward you shall not walk alone. My heart will be your shelter, and my arms will be your home.

– Anon crazy snapshots will definitely help them remember the event.

Some couples may want a film of their wedding. Although it may sound like a Hollywood movie set with staging, backstage cameras, and an interview, most weddings, videographers are discreet.

So, think first – do you want a wedding album, a movie or both!

Your day will be overflowing with meaningful gestures: bountiful affection, tender gazes, laughter and knowing smiles, not to mention the kiss that seals your vows.

Naturally, you’ll want them captured for posterity. If it’s documented well, it’ll be an exciting day that you can live and relive, over and over again.

List them all ahead of the wedding so the photographer can plan a schedule of ‘must haves’ before the bridal party is whisked away for those special, individual shots.

Grooming paramount...

Photographs take time and it’s important not to leave guests waiting interminably before the arrival of bride and groom at the reception

As well as ceremony, reception and honeymoon venues, be sure your hairdresser, nail technician and makeup artist are booked early.

And always have a trial run before the wedding. The wedding day is no time for regrets about a hair style or makeup. These important grooming details shouldn’t be left to chance.

One novel idea is to have a photo booth and a few accessories at the reception. This way your guests can have fun posing for posterity. A few

Don’t leave essential personal bookings to the last minute or you will be disappointed.

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:38:03 p.m.

wedding day It is the wedding season and there are plenty of fabulous outfits to choose from. But what styles and colours are suitable for guests to wear to weddings? Firstly, don’t make the following mistakes as you prepare your wardrobe for a friend’s wedding!

Dress

sense

The goal in marriage is not to think alike, but to think together. – Robert C Dodds the time of year, to determine your wedding attire. Always be respectful of a couple’s religious affiliations and dress to avoid offending anyone.

white pique vest, and a bow tie.

Women: Formal, full-length ball gown.

Glamorous makeup and hair with dramatic jewellery.

Black can be worn to a wedding; it is no longer off-limits but don’t look as though you are off to a funeral.

♥ Black Tie – This is the next most formal dress code and usually means the wedding is an evening affair. Men: A tuxedo. Women: A chic cocktail dress or a long evening gown.

What not to wear to a wedding… ♥ White – it is the bride’s day ♥ Short-sleeved dress shirt is a no-go ♥ A super sparkly gown ♥ Anything too revealing ♥ Jeans – absolutely not ♥ Short, short dress – oh no ♥ Over-done makeup ♥ The same colour as the bridesmaids or mother of the bride or groom ♥ A colour close to white, off-white, beige, champagne, cream ♥ Inappropriate foot wear such as jandals or anything plastic More importantly, though, is what is appropriate to wear and won’t distract from the bride – after all it is her day. Naturally you will want to look fashionable so it is vital to read the wording on the invitation, including

♥ Mother of the Bride and Groom – It is customary for the mother of the bride to purchase her dress first. Her choice is meant to subtly dictate what the mother of the groom will wear and set the tone of the attire. This may seem a bit old-fashioned, but it can avoid a faux pas. The groom’s mother should ask the bride’s mother what she is wearing then dress so she’s not in competition with her.

When the invite says… ♥ White Tie – This is the most formal of all wedding dress codes. Men: A tuxedo, a long black jacket with tails, a

♥ Formal – The wording here suggests something slightly less formal than black tie. Men: Formal dark suit and tie. Women: Long dress, a dressy suit, or a formal cocktaillength dress ♥ Beach Formal – This suggests an elegant beach wedding, so dress to impress, but also for the elements (sun, sand, and water). Men: Summer suit with a linen shirt (no tie required), linen pants or khakis, and sandals.

Women: Formal summer sundress or knee-length with sandals.

Photo James Saunders Label Wilkins Bridal

♥ Semiformal or Dressy Casual – Depending on the time of the event, you will want to dress somewhere between formal and casual. Men: A suit and tie. Women: A cocktail dress. ♥ Casual – Generally, this means anything goes. That said, shorts, jeans, tank tops are not appropriate unless they are specifically noted as acceptable. Men: Dress pants with a button-down shirt or polo. Women: A summer sundress. www.denysesaunders.com; www.aucklandfashionweek.nz

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avoiding

Mistakes

Organising a wedding is a big job – couple want everything to be just right but sometimes that can lead to costly – and all too common – mistakes. By avoiding the following, your special day should go off without a hitch or, rather, end with bridge and groom happily hitched!

MISTAKE 1: NOT HAVING A BUDGET Budget planning is an important part of any wedding. Having a budget means that you decide in advance where all your hard-earned savings are going. A budget should prevent overspending or spending money on the wrong things. Do not be tempted to over-step you budget.

MISTAKE 2: GROUP SHOPPING

MISTAKE 3: EXTENDING LAST MINUTE INVITATIONS Draw up your guest list carefully and then stick to it. Don’t keep adding names to please those who want to invite themselves or have ideas different to yours. Be prepared to respond gently but firmly to that single friend who told you she’d be coming unaccompanied but who now

Each wedding is a unique package that fits you as perfectly as your new engagement ring. – Anon would love to bring her last minute love interest. And, make a stand when guests wish to bring children or family feel you just must ask Aunty Mary who lives down country and hasn’t seen since you were in a high chair. If it is beyond your budget, don’t budge!

MISTAKE 4: SpENDING ExOrBitantly or stingily A wedding doesn’t have to be grandiose to be memorable. Some expenses can be cut. For example, ask friends to help with decorating so you

can spend a bit more on your dream dress. But remember, your dress is for one day only. Yes, you must love it, but not to the extent you will be in debt for years. That may apply to other items too – don’t let your heart rule your financial head. You can be reasonable without being cheap.

On the other hand, your wedding is likely to be a once in a lifetime event, and too much money-pinching could result in a plain or boring day. List items in order of importance, spend a little more on those your really value, and less on those you don’t.

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Shopping for a bridal gown with friends and family members is not

necessarily a good idea. The reason is simple: Everyone has their own opinion! Even if they don’t openly discuss their tastes, often a look or a grimace reflects their ideas and not yours. The obvious danger is in being influenced to choose a gown that somebody else has been dreaming about rather than the one you’ve always wanted. It may be preferable to go shopping with just one other person; someone who can be counted on for their honest and objective opinion.

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www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:38:11 p.m.

choosing

your

Location

The location for your wedding ceremony and reception is personal – they should reflect you and your partner’s personality and comfort zone.

Firstly, decide whether you want ceremony and reception at the same location or at two different locations.

Book the celebrant and ensure he/she is comfortable with your locaton choice.

If opting for two sites ensure guests know the route from one to the other.

When it comes to the reception itself are you thinking hotel, country inn or cruise boat, a marquee, community hall or vineyard, orchard, art gallery or golf club?

These days you can even celebrate at the zoo or the museum – there are so many great places to share this special day with your guests that sometimes it can be difficult to make a choice.

Therefore, it’s always a good idea to establish a list of criteria before starting your search. Take into consideration:

Every love story is beautiful but ours is my favourite.

♥ The wedding theme. The chosen location should suit your overall theme without requiring a huge makeover otherwise your budget could explode.

Find out about decorating arrangements as well – your job or theirs. ♥ The capacity. Make sure the chosen location can comfortably accommodate all your guests and if it is al fresco style be sure there is a contingency plan should it rain. ♥ The meal. Is there a caterer on site? Can you choose a different one?

Can you personalise the menu? Think about drinks – is there a liquor licence?

Can you bring your own wine or if it’s a vineyard, are you limited to certain products? Will you have a cash bar or will all drinks be included? ♥ Access and overnight accommodation. Is there enough parking? Is it free? Is the reception close to where the ceremony will take place or is the ceremony and reception all at one

location where guests may need light refreshments while the bridal party is away having photographs taken? Are there hotels nearby so out of town guests don’t have far to travel from their place of stay? ♥ Equipment. What is included? Are the dishes, chairs and tablecloths provided or do you need to rent some? Sometimes flowers are provided, sometimes, not. Is all the necessary sound and lighting equipment provided? Is there a dance floor and is it big enough? Is

there provision for a band or DJ. You’ll need to take into consideration everything that is not included in the base price in order to calculate your budget. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Is there a music curfew? Who is responsible for cleaning up after the party? By what time must you depart?

Finally, do reserve as soon as you’ve made your choice as your date may not be available for long. An early start will avoid disappointment.

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Celebrate your special day beach-side at award-winning restaurant, Stonehouse, Mission Bay – an idyllic park and seaside location combined with the highest service standards.

Are you looking for a unique wedding venue?

Wedding ceremony – On-site ceremony in our private garden.

Canapés and champagne served immediately after the ceremony and/or while you move around Mission Bay's many fantastic photo locations.

Historic Fisher House, located in Highbrook is the perfect place to have your big event! Because we are such a unique venue, we can tailor make your day to suit your requirements!

From Canape Style or Buffet to Plated or anything else you might want, we are here to look after you. Our spacious grounds are perfect for your ceremony and we also have available for the day our complimentary ‘Wedding Room’ which is a perfect place to get ready and also give a quiet place to take a break for a few moments during the day.

Simple & modern – Invite your guests to mingle while we serve canapés and champagne. Indoor or outdoor areas available for dancing.

Traditional sit-down reception – Buffet or a la carte set menu receptions available within our garden, deck or mission house.

Please get in touch to discuss requirements for your special day.

Don’t forget Valentine’s Day on Sunday 14th February!

117 Kerwyn Avenue, Highbrook For bookings call us on (09) 271 1066 email: info@fisherhouse.co.nz www.fisherhouse.co.nz 11846

The Stonehouse

44 Tamaki Drive, Mission Bay, Auckland • Phone: 09 578 1112 Email: manager@missionhouse.nz • www.meccastonehouse.com 11778

1850s church ceremony or marry at one of the many charming outdoor locations within the Village.

Superb photographic opportunities.

A rare chance to blend the past with the present.

HoW

Your wedding will be one of the most important days of your life, so we’ll make sure it’s one you’ll always remember

a li of

With its spacious entertaining areas, extraordinary views and easy access, Mikano is the ideal venue for a wedding. We can cater to up to 160 seated guests or 350 standing.

Our staff are experts at organising the perfect celebration or we’ll happily work with your own wedding organiser.

Menus can be customised to suit any occasion or culture.

Call us to talk about how we can make your special day, extra special.

HoWiCk HisToriCal Howick Historical Village Village

Step back in time a liVing HisTory MuseuM of THe fenCiBle Period

Howick Historical Village Phone 576 9506 • www.fencible.org.nz 11729

1 Solent St, Mechanics Bay, Auckland Waterfront phone 309 9514 | info@mikano.co.nz | www.mikano.co.nz 11758

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A LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM OF THE FENCIBLE PERIOD www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:38:23 p.m.

Wedding breakfast

Better than I was, more than I am, and all of this happened, by taking your hand.

The wedding meal, which takes up most of the evening as well as a large part of the budget, should be chosen carefully. What’s more, it should suit the location.

Firstly, menu possibilities abound and include banquet, barbecue, tapas, cocktail party, buffet, sit down with set menu and variations. Choose a formula and food that are in line with your budget and your wedding theme. ♥ Cocktail party – provide an area where guests can sit comfortably.

Include high tables where glasses can be placed while guests are eating finger food. No one likes juggling a glass in one hand and a plate, food and napkin in the other! ♥ Tapas – small plates offering variety and can be adapted to sit-down dinners, buffets or for a cocktail party.

fit for your theme

♥ Sit down with set menu – a popular choice but be sure to offer two choices in each course and remember to have a vegetarian option too. Check if any guests are vegan as this poses another element. At some set menu weddings the custom is to have two different mains and alternate them around the table allowing guests to swap if they so wish. But, this can be problematic if one person doesn’t eat a particular meat and the guest either side doesn’t wish to swap. ♥ Buffet – a comfortable choice for many folk as it allows plenty of options and accommodates a variety of tastes. Guests are required to leave their seats to collect their food but most people don’t mind this. Just be sure groups are sent up at intervals and when the last guests collect their food, there is as much choice for them as there was for the first diners.

– Anon

seafood. As well as meats include an array of salads and perhaps a ham carvery with the main course followed by a selection of individual desserts.

♥ Barbecue – generally reserved for more casual weddings and sometimes receptions on vessels. However, these go far beyond snags and a slice of bread! They will offer quality steak, chops and perhaps chicken; possibly grilled prawns and skewers which could be vegetarian or contain

♥ Desserts – the wedding cake was once the star of the show being integral to dessert. But today it is generally served later with coffee.

Therefore, desserts should offer guests a choice with small portions a good idea. On the other hand do not provide an overwhelming number of options which can result in waste. If you plan to have several children at the reception a sundae or icecream bar is an easy way to accommodate their tastes especially on a hot day.

Whatever your menu be sure to consider all your guests and have suitable choices for those with food allergies (eg gluten-free), children and vegetarians or vegans.

• easels • blackboards

• lighting curtains

Carlton Party Hire – Pakuranga 62 Ti Rakau Drive, Pakuranga Phone 577 0328 akeast@carltonpartyhire.co.nz

Carlton Party Hire – Pakuranga 62 Ti Rakau Drive, Pakuranga

Christmas Competition

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Competition entries close on 17 December 2014.

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29/01/2016 3:38:27 p.m.

Win!

A WEDDING CELEBRANT FOR YOUR BIG DAY Planning your wedding and looking for that special celebrant who will make your ceremony memorable?

Here’s your chance to win a voucher for the services of popular marriage celebrant, Kathy Bigwood, who has officiated at more than 600 weddings.

Enter the draw for this fabulous prize (valued at $450 – conditional on availability) at www.eastlife.co.nz. One entry per email address/ person; entries close February 29, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

Learn more about Kathy at www.vows4u.co.nz

three in one in the While summer weddings may still be the rule here, more people are opting for a winter ceremony and a honeymoon escape to the sun.

Sun!

I loved you yesterday, I love you still, I always have, I always will.

N A W

What’s more some couples are taking the ceremony, reception and honeymoon off shore with the turquoise waters and sandy beaches of the Pacific Islands being a favourite destination.

If you have the budget to fulfil dreams of an exotic wedding location then you will need to think about your guest list too. Perhaps, a smaller wedding with just family and close friends.

On the other hand, many friends may welcome the idea of combining your wedding with a holiday of their own and will be thrilled at the idea of heading to Rarotonga or Fiji and even further afield to Bali or Phuket.

However, you may want to think about the honeymoon segment of your overseas wedding – do you want

to honeymoon at the same place where your guests are staying or do you wish to move on to another location which isn’t quite so close for comfort?

If you do want to unite your destinies abroad find out about marriage legalities in your destination country so you can be sure your union is legally watertight. Fortunately, many resorts have wedding planners and a well-oiled local machine for ensuring weddings go to plan.

With ceremony, reception and honeymoon all combined this can make for a very relaxing and happy event but remember to check where the actual ceremony will take place – outdoors or indoors, on the beach, in a wedding chapel, around the pool.

Also check about availability of hairdressers, make-up artists and other essential services you may require. These days more brides are taking a stylist with them when travelling overseas.

Create your memories overlooking the

Hauraki Gulf Your special occasion at our special venue tailored to suit your wishes.

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T co

32 Musick Point Road, Bucklands Beach

Phone 535 1001 • Email reception@howickgolf.co.nz • www.howickgolf.co.nz 30 | eastlife | february 2016

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www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:38:31 p.m.

NEW IN RAROTONGA! ALL-INCLUSIVE WEDDING! The home of Rarotonga’s most beautiful sunset beach weddings, the iconic familyfriendly Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa and adjacent 4.5 star adults-only boutique resort Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach, now offer the new DREAMTIME ARURU ‘HAVEN OF LOVE’ ALL-INCLUSIVE wedding package!

DREAMTIME ARURU – RAROTONGA All-Inclusive Wedding ❤ only $5999!

❤ Sunset Beach Wedding Ceremony – ARURU ‘Haven of Love’ (includes choice of 4 beautiful wedding locations!) + ❤ Lavish Wedding Reception Buffet Dinner for 30 Guests (2 menus to choose from!) + ❤ 3-Hour Beverage Package for 30 Guests + ❤ Wedding Reception Venue Hire (either Blue Lagoon Marquee or Treetops Verandah Room) +

❤ 1-tier Wedding Cake + ❤ FREE use of Latitude 21-30 private nightclub for into-the-night after-party (no 10pm curfew!) + ❤ 5-nights Beachfront Suite accommodation @ Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach for the Bride & Groom! + ❤ Return Airport-Resort Transfers on Rarotonga for the Bride & Groom! ❤ All for an amazing $5999!

The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa and Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach are both located on the stunning southwest coast of Rarotonga – ensuring that you are able to live your dream of a beautiful sunset beach wedding, right on the island’s best white sandy beach with the sun setting across our sparkling blue Aroa Lagoon, the Lagoon of Love. Pure bliss!

EMAIL weddings@rarotongan.co.ck NOW TO SECURE THIS AMAZING-VALUE PACKAGE FOR YOUR PREFERRED DATE FOR YOUR BIG DAY!

www.eastlife.co.nz

Aroa Beach + Lagoon Marine Reserve | Rarotonga | COOK ISLANDS P (+682) 25800 | F 25799 | info@rarotongan.co.ck | www.TheRarotongan.com

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THE

Wedding

“There is nothing half so sweet in life as love’s young dream.”

Planner

6-12 Months ♥ Decide on the type of wedding, number of guests and prepare a budget.

♥ Decide when and where you would like

3-5 Months ♥ By now the wedding gown should be

organised or purchased, the style of the groom’s suit chosen and booked or purchased.

your ceremony and reception to be held, check availability of venues and book.

♥ Best man and groomsmen’s suits, and

♥ Choose and book a celebrant or meet with the

♥ Choose and order invitations, write and send.

minister or priest of your chosen church.

♥ Choose a photographer or videographer and

1-2 Months ♥ Have a trial hair and make-up session. ♥ Contact celebrant, minister or priest, check

all is in order and arrange rehearsal date with all people concerned.

attendants’ dresses should be organised.

♥ Meet with photographer and discuss

♥ Final fittings for all bridal party members. ♥ Apply to the Registrar of Births, Deaths and

Marriages for a marriage licence. (Valid for three months from issue.)

book.

arrangements, photo preferences, locations.

♥ Contact the people you would like as your

♥ Decide on accessories for the wedding party.

Book florist.

of numbers attending. When finalised, consult your caterer.

♥ Choose a colour scheme or theme for your

♥ Finalise your guest list.

♥ Order wine and finalise the menu with

bridal attendants, best man, groomsmen, etc.

wedding.

♥ Begin the search for the wedding gown. If you decide to have one made, choose the designer and dressmaker.

♥ Draw up a provisional guest list.

♥ Choose and order cake. ♥ Book make-up artist and hairdresser.

and flowers for church and reception finalised.

♥ Re-confirm all arrangements, eg honeymoon, photographer, car hire, hair and make-up, suits, dresses, flowers, venues, caterers, etc.

♥ Wear in your wedding shoes (bride and groom). ♥ If you’re having a hens’ or stags’ night, do it now – not the night before the wedding!

♥ Confirm with attendants, best man, family or

friends, things that need doing after the wedding (eg returning hired clothing, taking care of the bride’s gown, storing wedding gifts, etc) and decide who’s doing what.

caterers.

♥ Arrange reception seating plan and place cards.

♥ Choose wedding rings. ♥ Learn wedding dance.

2 Weeks ♥ Visit your florist to have detailing of bouquets

♥ Check the RSVPs from guests and keep a list

1 Week ♥ Don’t panic. ♥ Hold a full rehearsal of the ceremony. ♥ Do a dummy run through the journey at the

same time and day of the week as the ceremony to be sure transport and timing is correct. Plan an alternative route in case of delays on the day.

♥ Arrange for any hire items to be collected.

Check List Wedding venue Reception venue Celebrant Photographer Musicians and entertainment Wedding gown Caterers Florist

♥ Have a facial, massage, manicure and pedicure.

Transport

♥ With the preparation over, you can now relax

Wedding night accommodation

and enjoy your wedding day!

♥ Those giving speeches should be planning what to say!

Honeymoon destination The cake Rings Make-up artist Hairdresser Groom’s suit Best man/groomsmen’s suits Hire equipment (tables, chairs, etc) Attendants’ dresses

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Invitations www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:38:42 p.m.

Can you handle the scandal?

New Beginnings at Lilyfields What’s a country girl to do when beset by two handsome suitors?

Spoilt for choice between stability and passion, actress Orla Nolan must decide whether she will select an older, faithful father or his reckless and wild son. Which ‘roll’ (perhaps in the hay) should she play? In this vivid, rural romance set on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula, all will be revealed.

• Lottie Bloom: The New Beginnings

at Lilyfields | RRP $30 | Bantam NZ/ Penguin Random House

Strictly Between Us Tamsin and Michelle have been inseparable since childhood, but when rumours circulate that Michelle’s handsome hubbie, Patrick, has been playing away, their friendship is put to the test.

Can Tamsin – with the help of her seductive assistant – devise a honey trap to catch Pat in the act, or is said saucy ass-istant set to deceive? If it takes two to tango, a philandering foursome is assured to lead readers on a merry dance indeed!

• Jane Fallon: Strictly Between Us | RRP $37 | Penguin UK

The Scandalous Mackenzies – The Untamed Mackenzie and Scandal and the Duchess ‘An abundance of steamy sensuality’ (Chicago Tribune) including two

framestoday@gmail.com

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‘

Win! A ROMANCE BOOK PACK To be in to win a prize pack including ALL of titles featured here (valued at almost $120), simply enter at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per passion (sorry, person!) or email address; entries close February 29, 2016.

Winner notified by phone or email.

novellas... need we say more? Young widow of the Duke of Southdown, Rose Barclay, is looking likely to lose her home and inheritance, unless dashing Scot, Steven McBride, can save the day. However, will Rose go along with the notorious, womanising soldier’s most scandalous plan? In this book’s second story, convinced of her innocence, Detective Inspector

open mon-fri 9-5 sat 10-2

Lloyd Fellows must restore family honour to murder-accused Lady Louisa Scranton, as long as he can find the time between kisses, that is!

• Jennifer Ashley: The Scandalous Mackenzies – The Untamed Mackenzie and Scandal and the Duchess | RRP $15.99 | Berkley/ Penguin Group USA

The Perfumer’s Secret Forced to marry a man she loathes (usually the loathing comes after marriage, aren’t we right, readers?)

Fleurette is kept from his bed by the toll of cathedral bells calling men to the front lines during the First World War. Billed as a ‘intoxicating feast for the senses, a highly passionate and dramatic story’, The Perfumer’s Secret centres around a terrible secret, and the sparks of a powerful passion with which it is fuelled.

• Fiona McIntosh: The Perfumer’s Secret | RRP $37 | Michael Joseph/ Penguin Australia

PICTURE FRAMING . CANVAS PRINTING . NZ ART

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It’s hard to put a price on passion but, if the lover of your life is more bloated than buxom, cold fish than hot tamale or tame pussycat than wild tiger, a few ‘bucks’ can go a long way! To help the lorn of love (or simply those warm for forms) enjoy a scintillating Saint Valentine’s Day, we’ve assembled some new and recent titles (featuring one or two bodice-ripping moments) from New Zealand, Australia, the UK and USA of romance with a capital Ahhhhh!

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29/01/2016 3:38:47 p.m.

Not for the faint-hearted!

FARIDA MASTER, author of ‘An Uncensored Life’, biography of UK-based human rights campaigner and women’s champion, Zerbanoo Gifford, recently attended the Times LitFest, India, for a reading of her newly published book. After rubbing shoulders with literary world gods and taking time for a book tour, she now shares her experience.

Nervous, apprehensive and excited, my mind is in overdrive.

Just as I am overcome by the `I am not good enough’ Imposter syndrome, l decide to take the tried and trusted route of ‘fake it till you make it’, as I board the Singapore Airlines flight to Mumbai.

There must be a very good reason why I’m invited to the Times LitFest, I tell myself.

Last year it was the high profile Arainna Huffington, co-founder and editor-in-chief of the Huffington Post who stole the show at the literary festival held at Mehboob studios in Mumbai.

This year Vikram Seth, (the author of ‘A Suitable Boy’) is tipped to win the popularity polls, while the likes of Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times assistant masthead editor, Clifford J. Levy, along with other celebrity writers and columnists, will be attending India’s most celebrated writers’ festival.

I force myself to focus on the perks which include staying at the

Taj Lands End, a five-star hotel overlooking the Arabian Sea; attending hip, late night parties at trendy restaurants and mingling with the hallowed gods and goddesses of the literary world.

What more could a girl want?

The masala chai served on the Singapore-Mumbai sector is a wake-up call. The first sip of this spiced up, sweet Indian concoction is a reminder that I’m getting closer to home.

Sharing my arm rest is a selfconfessed workaholic AmericanIndian who swaps life stories over hot cups of masala chai. He works in the hospitality business by day in Los Angeles, and helps his wife run a travel agency after hours. is now planning to move back home.

He invites me to LA whilst filling me in on every tiny detail of his life, including the fundraising he does for his long-time friend, the current Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi.

My new buddy has been visiting his homeland for the past 36 years and

Finally, we arrive at the recently refurbished $US2 billion Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport with glitzy skylights resembling the plumage of the peacock, India’s national bird.

The new terminal 2 is the size of 25

football pitches. It comes complete with a museum of 7000 artefacts, and strategically placed visual narratives lining the corridors with stories of ancient India – the India I knew 15 years ago has stepped out of the shadow of the Banyan tree.

I assume that among the host of travellers are those not only

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29/01/2016 3:38:49 p.m.

Clockwise from far left: Farida (left) enjoys hot rotis cooked the ethnic way at Bhawna’s home; flower rangoli to invite guests home; bursts of colour at Mumbai Airport; a stray dog basks on top of a car; art exhibits adorn the wall at the newly renovated Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport.

interested in seeing the Taj Mahal and trekking the Himalayas, but who are equally keen to milk the cash cow. Economists have tipped India to be the fastest-growing economic power in the world with a middle class of 250 million.

While the land of the holy cow, like the rest of the world, battles with race related issues that makes headlines, the fast-changing Mumbai landscape still takes some time to sink in.

Trendy restaurants serve a wide array of international cuisine dished out with aplomb by globe-trotting chefs – the hip dining scene in the metros is truly an unmatched gastro jamboree.

In a city of vodka chais and McAloo tikkis, which takes pride in speaking chutnified Hinglish (English peppered with Hindi slang), I must admit I sometimes feel, like a small town girl as I set foot in jaw-dropping, flash malls, stylishly outfitted restaurants and designer store shenanigans.

Whilst it’s easy to be dazzled by the glitterati nights, there is undoubtedly the other side of India, tucked away from the cocooned comfort of five-star hijinks. It is www.eastlife.co.nz

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entwined with a very different thread.

bird’s eye view and the best fun I’ve had in a long time.

Wanting to take the page out of my biography that talks about living the adventure, I hop into an unreserved, second class ladies compartment of a long distance train to the western state of Gujarat, known for its sacred sites. The result, a scene that is a best fit for a Peter Sellers movie.

Wanting to do my good turn for the day, I signal to a young mother with an infant to join us. Clearly unequipped to handle a newborn it isn’t long before she says that in her hurry to board the train she’s only packed cloth nappies and forgotten to carry pampers with her.

Boarding the 20-wagon, burstingat-the-seams train, as it barely hesitates during its breakneck speed journey, requires an entry and exit strategy if I don’t want to be left behind at the platform. It would definitely help if I was a wrestler, rugby player or a sprinter. There is no room for courtesy here.

This, she tells me after the women sitting below, who look as if they are heading for a pilgrimage, feel a trickle of water that isn’t exactly holy! An unholy war of words ensues, drowned out only by vendors in the train hawking their wares.

Once inside the compartment, the trick is to make eye contact and check if anyone offers to budge and make place for you. An 18-year-old waves out, asking me to join her at the top of the human heap.

It’s nice of her to offer a seat, except that it’s originally meant to be an extra tier for luggage. Trapezing my way through as everyone else watches with amusement, my climb to the top is a story best untold.

Mission accomplished, I have the

Considering there is barely any place to stand, it is a wonder how the street-smart woman with more than a dozen bags, meticulously unpacks boxes of artificial jewellery and passes them around for sale.

She does brisk business selling everything from homemade delicacies to bed linen and saris. Talk about capitalising on a compartment full of women on a long distance train who believe that a little bit of splurging doesn’t hurt anyone.

As I finally emerge from the human rush, strangely feeling more

exhilarated than ever, I am greeted by a stray dog sitting atop a car roof watching the world go by. It is just like the holy cow that stubbornly squats bang in the centre of a busy main street, leaving motorists and cyclists to precariously drive around its bulk.

The burst of colour and energy as hordes of people wait to jump onto rickshaws, buses and taxis is heady.

Street kids play cricket without a care in the world even as loud music blares from huge loud speakers on narrow bylanes of streets that celebrate a crowded festive calendar in the land of way too many gods, cultures and dialects.

There is complete chaos on the streets, yet, despite the heat and dust, there is real vibrancy. A lot of people don’t have two square meals a day but they do own a cell phone!

Speaks a lot about the booming telecommunications industry.

India is certainly not for the fainthearted. There is little room for social etiquette and personal space but it is an adventure you wouldn’t want to miss – ask my Kiwi friend Kirsten who spent a night in the caves with the yogis in North India...but that, of course, is another story! eastlife | february 2016 |

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29/01/2016 3:38:54 p.m.

NEW WINE & FOOD TOURS Waiheke Island is exciting any time of the year but, now, three new, exhilarating wine and food tours, operated by Fullers, provide the perfect way to experience the best of Waiheke!

Packing the right plan

for a successful trip

off the beaten track As the name suggests, Off the Beaten Track takes visitors to the quiet and secluded beauty of three magnificent vineyards located in more remote areas.

Following a relaxed Fullers cruise to Waiheke, guests are greeted by their tour driver with first stop Batch Winery, Waiheke’s highest altitude vineyard with sweeping views from Coromandel to Auckland City. After a winery tour and wine tasting, it’s lunch in the vineyard’s restaurant, Thomas’s Bach.

Next stop is Waiheke’s most awarded winery, Passage Rock for wine sampling including their highly-acclaimed syrah. Lastly, the tour stops for tapas and wine tasting at Casita Miro, the recipient of many awards, including Best Rural Restaurant Personality of the Year in the Metro Magazine’s Top 50 Auckland Restaurants.

WAIHEKE DEGUSTATION Fine food and wine lovers will love Waiheke’s new degustation style tour. Once again travel via Fullers ferry and then be transported to three premium vineyards where it’s all about beautifully matched wine and food which showcases some of the best seasonal food on the island.

First stop is Mudbrick Vineyard with its sweeping views of the Hauraki Gulf and manicured gardens. Here guests are treated to exquisite food with three accompanying wines.

Next, is Peacock Sky’s tasting room where award-winning wines and perfectly matched food will delight the senses. Soak up views of neighbouring eco-farmland or stroll the vines for a glimpse of wild peacocks.

Last stop, Cable Bay for a behind the scenes vineyard tour of a world class winemaker at work then relax in The Verandah overlooking the Hauraki Gulf while sampling superb cuisine and sophisticated wines.

TWILIGHT DINNER TOUR Finally, forget the working day and book the new Twilight Dinner tour which provides a relaxing evening cruise to Waiheke for wine tasting and a two-course dinner whilst seeing the island in a whole new light.

On arrival at Matiatia you are transported to Batch Winery to enjoy a premium wine tasting against stunning vistas of the island and its beaches in the evening sun. Then it’s on to Cable Bay Vineyard to dine on the finest cuisine with superb wine while relaxing in The Verandah – take in magnificent views of Auckland City and the Hauraki Gulf while the sun sets adding glow to the experience!

Finally, it’s back to the ferry for the 8pm sailing to Auckland and an opportunity to photograph the city’s glittering skyline.

Visit www.fullers.co.nz for cost and more information.

When organising a trip the best laid plans of men, women and holidaymakers are known to often go astray.

First there’s the usual dilemma – finding the best flights, booking accommodation and checking tours and attractions then there’s issues such as what to pack, how to pack, medication and which items can be left behind – the list goes on!

Regular travellers may have it down pat but it never hurts to be reminded of ways to help ensure your trip is a safe, and enjoyable. To make the most of limited luggage space, packing tips include: • Roll clothes instead of folding them. This saves an ironing job when arriving at your destination • Place smaller items, e.g. socks, inside shoes to maximise space • Have a change of clothes in your cabin bag. If your main luggage goes astray at least you’ll have something fresh on hand.

• Always carry a jersey – it can be cold on the plane and weather can be unpredictable.

Register with SafeTravel You’ve picked your destination, been through countless websites, googled your heart out, booked everything, and visited your agent.

The next step is to register with SafeTravel. SafeTravel is the go to official website for Kiwis travelling overseas. Once registered, in the event of an emergency, locating you and your family is easier. It also means important information can be sent two ways.

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is a must even if away only a short time. An illness or accident on holiday can result in expensive hospital and doctor’s fees. A few dollars spent on travel insurance may be invaluable.

Hydration

00862

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With any travel staying hydrated is essential. When it comes to flights,

the 1Above beverage is a great ‘go-to’. The active ingredient is pycnogenol, which clinical studies have shown to reduce the impact of jet lag and support circulation.

1Above also contains six essential electrolytes to help hydrate fast and combat fatigue. After passing through customs, purchase a bottle of 1Above at Auckland International Airport. For the best results, take one litre 2-3 days either side of travel.

Entertainment You’ve made it to the airport, checked in, gone through customs, done some duty free shopping, and now you’re on the plane heading off. In your cabin bag should be ear plugs, a book for yourself (in case the movies aren’t your thing), playing cards and also colouring books/reading/travel game for the kids! Have enough entertainment to last the flight. This is important – flying with children can be trying.

Exercise You’ve arrived at your destination, and though you want to laze by the pool, it’s best to keep up your circulation. A good walk should do the trick. Head off around your immediate neighbourhood to check out nearby shops, attractions and transport links. When back at your accommodation you can relax. www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:38:58 p.m.

Say ‘I love you’ with chocolate ‘Be my Valentine ‘is hardly a phrase modern young men or women readily utter and they are even less likely to send messages of unrequited love (especially by post, carrier pigeon or otherwise) to would be sweethearts.

But that doesn’t mean Valentine’s Day is, by any means, ignored.

Increasingly, there are declarations of love on this special day and not so much from far off admirers but between established partners, or new courting couples.

Flowers, cards and romantic gifts, such as jewellery, lingerie and, of course, chocolates, are becoming the norm and come February 14, restaurants around the city are heavily booked by lovers, young and old.

Interestingly, chocolate has long been a popular gift and in the days when a chaperone was present during courtships, a box of choccies was often given to the young woman by her admiring beau.

But it wasn’t until early in the 20th century that the first Valentine’s Day box of sweets was introduced into

stores. They were such a hit, that two years later they were followed by the famous Perugina Baci ‘kisses’.

Although gifting boxes of chocolate is not such an old tradition, once this sweet delicacy was introduced to the western world it soon became a favourite with rich and poor – when the latter could afford it.

In the 17th century, Queen Maria Theresa, wife of the French King Louis XIV, was said to have just two passions – the king and chocolate.

originally named Theobroma Cacao, which translates as, food of the gods – has made slaves of people all over the world can be seen in the hundreds of quotes and sayings about chocolate and its sway.

For example: Never get between a girl and her chocolate; money talks, chocolate sings; once you consume chocolate, chocolate will consume you; it’s not that chocolates are a substitute for love, love is a substitute for chocolate.; chocolate is, let’s face it, far more reliable than a man.

So, come this Valentine’s Day, perhaps the way to woo the love in your life will lie with chocolates but, a word of caution, there are those that say, ‘forget love I’d rather fall in chocolate!’

Further evidence that this delicious product from the cocoa tree –

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29/01/2016 3:39:02 p.m.

Mountain high, mountain low!

Local resident and history buff CHRISTINE MILES gives the low down on the history behind some of our thoroughfares and well known places.

Pigeon Mountain – that ancient landmark lying between Pakuranga Road and Half Moon Bay – has a fascinating past. Steeped in Maori history, its status as a dormant volcano adds to the intrigue.

In Howick’s settler days it became a popular picnic spot; a place where children could climb trees, ramble around the hilltop and laze in the summer sunshine.

And, once, it was nearly the place of a royal picnic after a pheasant shoot except that the prime guest, HRH Prince Albert the Duke of Edinburgh – on his first visit to the colonies – ended up sending his apologies and equerry Lieutenant Haig in his place.

It is difficult to imagine such a picnic for, say, Prince Harry, on the mountain today, even if it does enjoy magnificent views over the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours.

However, life on and around Pigeon Mountain wasn’t always about looking out to sea from its northern slopes. In the 1800s, the southern side (pictured) was a swampland, damp underfoot and heavy with clay. So much clay, that to this day a local GP might well refer to a constipated patient as being afflicted with “Pakuranga Clay”.

Fencible life in this part of Auckland

‘

The Governor chose the land for these destitute women, with most relocated to the south side of Pigeon Mountain. This was better than nothing as up to three-acres could be given, even a little more if there were children to consider.

seven-year term of service had not been completed, the family cottage was not yet personal property.

Subsequently, the widow moved out, and the scheme-owned home was immediately allocated to another fencible.

was neither easy nor profitable. Men found employment where they could; women contributed by taking in ironing, selling butter and eggs and carrying out other domestic-related activities. This meager, secondary income could in no way take the place of a regular wage.

Should the man-of-the-house die, life became very difficult. If the required

The widow had a choice – an allexpenses paid trip, with rations, back to England along with her children, or a piece of land and a small sum of money (15 pounds) which would be enough to build a small cottage.

Trust us with the Essentially, she and any children wouldof have ayour roof over their heads life which, compared to many other

these destitute women, with most relocated to the south side of Pigeon Mountain. This was better than nothing as up to three-acres could be given, even a little more if there were children to consider.

However, if a wife was to die, the man was left to get on with things, to make the best of a bad situation, which inevitably became worse fairly quickly. The best method of survival, especially if there were children, was to remarry as fast as possible.

love

And so life went on, as it does today, in the streets surrounding Pigeon Mountain, although now there are sports clubs, schools, kindergartens, daycare, retirement villages and still, clay, but not nearly so overwhelming as it was for the fencible widows.

widows of the time, was considered relatively good luck.

The Governor chose the land for

Trust us Trust us with with the the of your life

love of your life

At Kindercare in Pakuranga, we’ll cherish your child and celebrate their milestones. It’s our loving relationships and fun-filled environment that enables us to keep your little one Safe, Loved and Learning, until we return them to your care, at the end of the day.

BABIES • TODDLERS • PRESCHOOLERS

Call us or pop in for visit let’sand see let’s how we help you.

Call us or popain forand a visit seecan how

38 | eastlife | february 2016

we can help you.

Kindercare Pakuranga 163 Pigeon Mountain Road Ph: 535 8942 www.kindercare.co.nz 11856 Kindercare Tawa 25 Main Road, Tawa Ph: 232 6666 www.kindercare.co.nzwww.eastlife.co.nz

BABIES • TODDLERS • PRESCHOOLERS

eastlife february 2016.indd 38

Call us or pop in for a visit and let’s see how 29/01/2016 we can help you.

3:39:06 p.m.

Be organised – Be in Control

Rockabye Early Learning Centre takes the care and education of young children seriously. Today, centre owner Caryn Mawkes has some helpful tips becoming more organised.

Everyone seems to complain about being so busy nowadays.

That’s no surprise considering the wealth of information, activities and opportunities we have at our fingertips. But it also means that one of our most precious resources, ‘time’, is becoming even harder to control.

A big part of not having enough time is the fact that people are not organised enough. If you’d like to add a bit more order to your family’s life here are seven ways to become more organised.

• The weekly menu – The most time-efficient way is to plan the meals a week ahead. This will make your supermarket shopping a whole lot quicker. In the morning, pull anything out of the freezer that needs to defrost during the day and chop up some veggies. If there is anything you can do early to make the dinner time rush go smoother, do it.

• Family calendar – Keep a wall calendar in the kitchen with every family member’s comings and goings: school activities, work schedules, travel dates. Digital calendars may be helpful for those who are IT-savvy.

• Cupboards – We all know that there is never enough storage in our homes. It is a lot easier to find things when they are stored and labelled appropriately. Using smaller containers is a great way to organise bits and bobs i.e. – sewing box, first aid kit, arts & crafts.

Win! Love by Emma Dodd If all you need is love, then you’re in luck! Featuring rhyming text and charming illustrations, this padded picture book follows little rabbit and his mum as they spend a glorious, sunny day together in the meadow.

Exploring the importance of the loving relationship between animal parents and their babies, this book shows that while little rabbit may fine love everywhere, a mummy’s love is always the best of all!

• Laundry – Doing a load of washing every day adds only minutes to your daily routine. This will mean you do not have to spend your entire weekend doing loads of washing.

• A ‘go bag/basket’ for the car – Why not keep all the gear your family takes on outings in one bag in the car. This will ensure you always have a picnic blanket, ball, sun screen and umbrella for those impromptu moments.

• Unwanted items – Fill a box with ‘things’ you’re unsure about and pack it away for a year. Be sure to write the date on the outside. If you don’t use anything in the box for an entire year, you don’t need it and can get rid of it.

• Mail and correspondence – Sort mail, invitations and school newsletters when they are received. Either trash, file, respond, or take the appropriate action — don’t let mail and other papers build up.

It’s always easy to think and plan when everything around you is in perfect order. Good luck in being more organised and hopefully these helpful hints will provide that fresh start you’re looking for.

While this may be a different type of love to what we usually explore on Valentine’s Day, it certainly is a sweet little read for children aged 2-5.

• Emma Dodd: Love | RRP $17.99 | Nosy Crow/Allen & Unwin

Win! KIWIGARDEN

SNACK PACKS The kiddies are sure to love these back to school, natural lunchbox snacks from Kiwigarden.

proudly uses NZ-made best local produce. They are also gluten-free, GM-free, nut-free and mess-free!

These tasty, natural, freeze-dried snacks have NO chemical nasties such as artificial preservatives or flavours and NO added colours.

Available from participating stores nationwide and online at www. kiwigarden.co.nz they’re the kind of snack you shouldn’t feel guilty about.

Be blown away by the apple slices, sweet corn kernels, banana & honey yoghurt drops and mixed berries yoghurt drops, now featured in bright, new packaging.

Early Learning Centre • Hours 7.30am-5.30pm, full & part time • Positions for children aged 0-5 years • Our family relationships are important to us.

Education Review Office in April 2014 rated our centre in the top 5%. They stated: Consistent, effective teaching practice; Children happy and settled, with a strong sense of belonging; Children involved in rich literacy, numeracy and science opportunities

‘

WIN A COPY – EastLife has THREE copies of this book to give away. To be in to win, see the competitions’ page at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close February 29, 2016.

Winners notified by phone or email.

These crunchy treats – RRP 4.99 each – using real fruits, vegetables, yoghurt and a touch of New Zealand honey, are conveniently packaged which makes them an easy, nutritious, on the go snack which

And best of all, EastLife has two prize packs of Kiwigarden snacks to give away, each valued at $20.

To enter the draw see the competitions’ page at eastlife.co.nz.

One entry per person/email address; entries close February 29, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

WE WELCOME YOU TO VISIT OR CONTACT US: Rockabye Early Learning Centre, 122 Aviemore Dr, Highland Park • Email caryn@rockabye.school.nz Ph 533 0218 • www.rockabye.school.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife february 2016.indd 39

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29/01/2016 4:18:14 p.m.

Making every post a winner ‘ However we look at it, building fences is quite literally ‘boring’ work.

And yet, as JON RAWLINSON discovered, the skills of competitive fencers (including Clevedon’s Tony White) are anything but dull when they pin their hopes on posting top results.

Let townies dream of white picket fences; when local farmers need their countryside corralled (or a competitor to cheer for) they’ll call instead for a White fencer!

Professional fencing contractor, Tony White, might be well at home on hill or range, but he’s also taken centre stage at New Zealand’s top competitive fencing events. Next on the agenda is to go one better than his second placing at the inaugural Hilux New Zealand Rural Games last year.

“Second was fine, but I would like to have won. This time I’m fully aware of what I’m in for and will be training especially for speed fencing – as will the others, though, I suppose! But I should have a good chance,” he says.

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In a close-run final at the Games’ New Zealand Speed Fencing Championship, Tony fell at the final hurdle to Levin’s Matt Jones.

“I went pretty close. Matt wasn’t meant to be in the final but Donald [Cornwall] injured his knee. It annoyed me because, when I saw who I was meant to be up against, I thought I had a chance. But, as with any type of race, there’s a certain amount of luck involved.”

Despite more than 25 years’ professional experience, the longtime spectator only turned competitor approximately six years ago. Since then, in addition to speed fencing, Tony has also reached finals of the prestigious Wiremark Golden Pliers (singles) and Fieldays Silver Spades

Speed fencing involves more luck [than general fencing]. The real difference is time; you’ll be doing something which normally takes half an hour in just seven minutes.”

(doubles) events at the NZ National Agricultural Fieldays in Hamilton.

Tony says he prefers general fencing, which is primarily focused on quality, systems and techniques (as well as time taken), to speed fencing, where time is of utmost importance.

“Speed fencing involves more luck [than general fencing]. The real difference is time; you’ll be doing something which normally takes half an hour in just seven minutes,” he explains.

“Although speed fencing lacks some of the attention to quality that you have with the general competitions, precision is still important; getting a hole drilled to the right depth saves a lot of time, and when you’re operating that big borer at full throttle – with a 100cc motor and about 18 horsepower – you’d better hope all goes well!”

However, he adds that fencing (competitive or professional, general or speed) all comes down to physics.

“You need to build a fence which won’t move under strain.

I recommend young fencers get involved with competitive fencing because it will find every weakness they have,” says Tony. “[Judges] will strain it to the maximum and test it pretty much to destruction.

Your fence can look good when you’ve finished, but once they’re done, it can look pretty awful!” www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:39:14 p.m.

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Tom Dingle (left) and boss Tony White.

Photo Wayne Martin

Like a Kiwi on the wire When Tony White first took up competitive fencing six years ago (in his mid 40s), he was a little green.

However, thanks to experience in the industry, he is making up for lost time and hammering home his reputation in the sport.

“I finally took it up t because of my competitive streak; the thrill of the chase, I suppose. I watched for years and realised the quality of the work was right up there so I thought I’d have a go,” he says. “However, I should have got into it a lot earlier.

I would have learnt more – in terms of effective techniques – in one year of competing than in 10 as a contractor.”

And, with some of the world’s best fencers on the New Zealand circuit, Tony had to learn quick! “The likes of Matt Jones [2015 Rural Games winner] are still about. He’s not quite as quick as Nick, but certainly faster than many others. And Paul Van Beers and Shane Bouskill are top www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife february 2016.indd 41

         

men on the world stage. They really are the ones to beat.”

Paul has no less than 14 Golden Pliers titles and two world cups, while Shane is the reigning world champ and holds two national titles. Overall, Kiwi competitors set the pace on the world stage, Tony adds.

  

PUKEKOHE SHOWGROUNDS  Station Rd, Pukekohe PUKEKOHE SHOWGROUNDS 9am—4pm each day Station Rd, Pukekohe Free parking 9am—4pm each day

And, after finishing second in the Bill Schuler Singles Novice Round at Fieldays last June, Tony’s workmate, Tom Dingle from nearby Ardmore, is also one to watch. Overall, Kiwi competitors set the pace on the world stage, Tony adds.

    

   

      

“Competitive fencing is popular here, but it’s quite a niche sport. The world looks to New Zealand for leading ideas on fencing. Our country’s not flat, so to get the best out of it we need to fence it effectively. We have to build fences that can cope with tough terrain. I guess our conditions go a long way to making our fencers some of the best in the business.”

     

02170

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29/01/2016 3:39:19 p.m.

The cycle of life Despite predictions, back when the baby boomers were shake, rattle and rolling, that we’d all be flying around like the Jetsons by now, it seems the future of mechanical ambulation is more down to earth.

countries. While, in New Zealand, the programme is currently only available to residents at Arvida retirement villages, it may not be long before eastern streets also experience this old school approach to new technology.

However, as Arvida Group CEO, Bill McDonald, says, Cycling Without Age’s specially-designed bikes (trishaws) offer safe, efficient and enjoyable transport with the added advantage of motors for assistance over steeper terrain.

“Cycling Without Age is a terrific initiative linking the community (through volunteer cyclists) with our residents who may have loved cycling or being in the outdoors in the past, and still want to feel the wind in their hair,” says Bill.

“We are delighted to be the first business to bring the initiative to New Zealand.”

Founded in Denmark, Cycling Without Age is in operation across 26

Photo supplied

EVERYONE’S ENTITLED TO MY OPINION

CENTRAL

OTAGO

MAN A COMEDY BY JUSTIN EADE. DIRECTED BY ALEX GLEED

SEASON: FEBRUARY 27 TO MARCH 19, 8PM. MATINEES: FEBRUARY 28 & MARCH 6, 2PM. A humorous tale about Central Otago farmer Tryfen Gribilco, who is running a bungy-jumping platform with a young, by-the-book offsider, Marty Wellings. Tryfen is perfectly untouched by the ravages of political correctness and has an opinion on just about everything, which he freely shares with his high-profile clients – an urbane Australian senator and an uptight German UN delegate and her minder.

SIR LLOYD DRIVE - PAKURANGA BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.ITICKET.CO.NZ OR PHONE HLT ON 534 1406 WWW.HLT.ORG.NZ 42 | eastlife | february 2016

eastlife february 2016.indd 42

11850

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 4:18:38 p.m.

1

NO. 10019

DOWN

1. W hat the cat did in the fight? (4).

7. Craft that made its mate boast (9).

8. To catch or to trap a duck (4).

9. Turning to the right, run (4).

10. The time I’m leaving the morning after is eleven (4).

11. Urges one to have a substantial breakfast (4).

14. Loses one’s backer in the US (3,7).

16. Cutting the material to give to the sailor (10).

19. Does rewrite the works (4).

22. Pass out in the Reptile House (4).

24. Wait for the offer to be increased by a quarter (4).

25. Take it back myself for a while (4).

26. A naughty song or two or three?

(3,6).

27. Set on being crooked (4).

1. B ecause it’s south to Nice, silly (5).

2. Giving a sound imitation? (5).

3. Seems surprised to find the acid on board (6).

4. Do spill the tar into the box (6).

5. In the tea-break, the British help (4).

6. Be all upset about the spectators for the game (9).

12. Good heavens! Mac will be proud of him! (5,4).

13. “It’s a fruit, stupid,” you say (4).

15. So returned the shot (4).

17. Books for collectors (6).

18. Certainly where you’ll see legal jargon (6).

20. Get up and go – for a trip (5).

21. It’s a little street on the outskirts, my love (5).

23. Make one go second-last (4).

puzzle no. 19

ACROSS

2

3

4

5

6

7 8 9 11 12

10

13 14

16

15

17

18 19 20

22

23

21

24 25

26 27

Quick Puzzle ACROSS

No. 10019

DOWN

1. Front (4) 1. Spot (5) 7. Mortify (9) 2. Board game (5) 8. Always (4) 3. Capital city (6) 9. Surfeit (4) 4. Season (6) 10. Rotate (4) 5. Haze (4) 11. Buss (4) 6. Right (9) 14. Penitence (10) 12. Complex (9) 16. Springboard (10) 13. Froth (4) 19. Fashion (4) 15. Pour (4) 22. Mark (4) 17. Exaggerate (6) 24. Comfort (4) 18. Mad (6) 25. Percolate (4) 20. Fat (5) Volunteer have 26. Servantin (9) our charity shops, 21. Eject (5) fun 27. Meat (4) Dance (4) whilst supporting the work 23. of Hospice.

Puzzle answers on page 81

Cryptic Puzzle

time

Sudoku

hoto supplied

Puzzle

Join a friendly team at the heart of your local community in one of our Totara Hospice shops.

Our dedicated and caring volunteers need more help!

Turn kindly donated goods into much needed support for our patients and their families. Full training is provided, a great chance to meet new friends - and there are many ways you can help.

Volunteer in our charity shops, have fun whilst supporting the work of Hospice. www.eastlife.co.nz

Join a friendly team at the heart of your local community in one of our Totara Hospice shops.

Please contact Wendy Stanmore now if you can help on: (09) 2983108 or wendy.stanmore@hospice.co.nz Totara Hospice, 140 Charles Prevost Drive, Manurewa eastlife | february 2016 |

43

Our dedicated and caring volunteers need more help!

Turn kindly donated goods into much needed support for our patients training is provided, a great chance to meet

and their43families. Full eastlife february 2016.indd

29/01/2016 3:39:28 p.m.

Fashion Week all style As doyenne of the fashion and modelling world, Denyse Saunders, prepares for Auckland Fashion Week 2016, running alongside Auckland Oaks and Derby Week at Alexandra Park from March 4-12, she anticipates an exciting week of fabulous winter collections, loads of fun and guests dressing in their finest hats and gowns, perhaps some body art, too!

Taking place on the Champagne Lawn, this is all about fun and fashion, as men and women vie for the prestigious line up of prizes including trips abroad, courtesy of Scenic Hotel Group.

In its third year, this event has been touted as the best organised Fashion at the Races event in the country.

But even if not entering, grab a group of friends and go have a fabulous night on the Champagne Lawn! For more information www.aucklandfashionweek.nz/ Fashionattheraces Of course, the highlight of the week is the Auckland Collections & Awards on Saturday, March 12 in the Tasman Room. The perfect backdrop for fashion, this is a show like no other and is not to be missed!

Exciting entertainment starts at the pre-show between 7pm and 8pm then, more entertainment will be interspersed between all the new

season fashion collections paraded on the catwalk.

Past Fashion Week praise has included: “The show was brilliant and the fashion just fabulous! I felt as though I was back in Paris”; “One of the best nights ever!”; “Such a great showcase of fashion”; “We could have been in Paris or Milan. The night was perfect, very international and professional!”

Local designer and creator of the Crystal Sloane label, Ngaire Lynch shows at both London Fashion Week and Cannes Film Festival as well as Auckland Fashion Week. She says: “It is a wonderful new era in Auckland fashion and modelling, thanks to Auckland Fashion Week!”

At this year’s event the audience will be treated to Beau Joie champagne from France, amazing goody bags and delicious platters set at tables around the catwalk. Three ticket price levels are available – VIPGOLD, Silver and Bronze.

Label: Sabatine. Model: Tiara.

Auckland Fashion Week also supports the Look Good, Feel Better cancer organisation for women of all ages with all types of cancer. Some of these cancer patients model in the show and AFW assists in raising funds for this self-funded organisation that does so much good work for women suffering the effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

Label: Crystal Sloane. Model: Sinead.

A limited number of tickets are available so be in quick; you won’t want to miss Auckland’s fashion event of the year!

Photo James Saunders

Come Friday night, March 11, fashionistas with an eye for style will be entered in the Crystal Sloane Best Dressed Lady at the Races, the Dr Robert Beulink Best Dressed Man at the Races, La Biosthetique Best Milliner at the Races and the JRS Photographer Best Body Art at the Races all part of the upcoming Fashion Week at Alexandra Park.

Join the media, VIPs and celebrities and reserve your seat or table now!

Auckland Fashion & Awards 2016 winter collections – book online at www.aucklandfashionweek.nz

Whether you are going solo, with a fabulous fashionista friend,or a corporate table of 10 people, there are tickets to suit everyone.

www.denysesaunders.com www.dsmodelmanagement.nz www.aucklandfashionweek.nz

ION ESS AL BUSINES

S

EST PROF

1/10 The Terraces, 24 Wellington Street, Howick | Ph 535 9554 Email salon@terraceshair.co.nz | Web www.terraceshair.co.nz

B

00482

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eastlife february 2016.indd 44

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:39:31 p.m.

WITH THIS

ring...

DAVID FELS, owner of Showcase Jewellers, Howick, says jewellery is all about love – true love, friendship, families, even pieces you’ve fallen in love with. That’s why he and his team love hearing your stories and making your dreams come true.

As we revel in summer and the wedding season is in full swing, it is timely for brides to think about their wedding ring, after all it is one of the most important pieces of jewellery worn in one’s lifetime.

The age-old tradition of giving and receiving wedding rings symbolises the promise of commitment you and your partner make to each other. Like no other object on earth, these rings transcend cultures, languages and religions across the globe.

Photo James Saunders

So how to choose? Keep it simple or opt for something fancier? Being a symbol of love that you’ll wear for the rest of your life one thing’s for sure – it pays to spend some time choosing a ring that’s perfect for you.

Historically, a bride would choose a plain band but if you are thinking of something more contemporary then consider accents and interesting details to complement your engagement ring.

At present, most clients are choosing a wedding ring that includes diamonds not only because they provide a sparkly backdrop to an engagement ring but to ensure the ring reflects the importance of the event. And, diamonds aren’t just for the girls. More and more

grooms are choosing a ring set with a precious gem.

One element to keep in mind is how your wedding ring sits with the engagement ring and how they look side by side. If the engagement ring doesn’t allow for a straight band to sit alongside it and you want to avoid having a gap between the two rings, you will need to think about having a curve, or consider how a fitted wedding ring could be designed to interlock with the engagement ring.

Typically, we can achieve the goal of ensuring engagement and wedding rings complement each other but don’t get stressed if they aren’t twins.

They are two separate rings for two different occasions and seeing that distinction isn’t necessarily a bad thing; indeed, some clients prefer it.

A wonderfully sentimental way of personalising rings is to add a special message or date to the inside or outside of your ring. We can also engrave your exact handwriting on some designs by using a laser engraver. Engraving can usually be added at no extra cost.

D

E

S

I

G

N

At Showcase Jewellers we also repair and remodel wedding rings so if an update or maintenance is required please call in for free advice.

Your Diamond Specialist

ELEGANT, STYLISH & BEAUTIFUL...

Because we design with you in mind.

Special Occasion • Racewear • Mother of the Bride & Groom

1.00ct TDW Diamond Ring 9ct Gold

$2499

David Fels Showcase Jewellers 53 Picton St, Howick Ph: 09 537 2347 howick@showcasejeweller.com

SHOWCASE JEWELLERS

KW0406-v3

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife february 2016.indd 45

Open: Mon to Sat, 10–4pm • 1 Seymour Rd, Mellons Bay Phone: 09 534 8614 • Mobile: 021 178 1543 Web: kevinmooredesign.co.nz 11708

eastlife | february 2016 |

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29/01/2016 4:18:53 p.m.

Making up with get-away brides The tradition of surrounding oneself with beauty attendants, even when travelling, goes back to pre-Biblical times and though the practice declined after the industrial revolution, it never went entirely out of fashion. Now, there has been a revival in makeup artists and stylists accompanying clients to far off places for all important events as HELEN PERRY discovered.

If the ancient Egyptians were adept at applying makeup using the likes of red ochre, kohl, burnt almonds and henna, it stands to reason that today’s vast beauty industry should make it easy for women (and men) to enhance their looks.

But Rachel Mackwood knows it’s not that straight forward. The Botany makeup artist and hair stylist says women today recognise that ‘face painting’ is not child’s play; it takes training, product knowledge, skill and creativity to apply the right makeup for a flawless outcome.

“When it comes to life’s big events such as a wedding, women want beauty perfection and they are starting to realise that climate, skin tone, skin condition, the type of event and other factors need to be taken into account. It’s not a matter of popping into the local pharmacy before setting off to the school ball or a day at the races.”

And, if women are increasingly opting to book a makeup artist and/or hair stylist to ensure their look is beautiful and will stand up to the conditions of a big occasion, many are also engaging these professionals to attend to them on their wedding day overseas.

“Destination weddings have become hugely popular,” Rachel says. “Once New Zealanders mostly booked summer weddings at home – and this is still the norm – but many now plan for an off-season wedding in warmer climes such as the Pacific Islands, Australia and Asia.

“However, there is an unwillingness to rely on unfamiliar services for fear the job will be botched so they budget to take a beauty expert from home.”

And Rachel herself has been flown

46 | eastlife | february 2016

eastlife february 2016.indd 46

to various destinations for bridal and other clients.

“I’m often flown around the country and even to Australia by regular clients but last year I accompanied a bridal party to Koh Samui in Thailand for five days. We stayed at a private retreat and the day before the wedding I carried out a full hair and makeup trial for the bride, two bridesmaids and the mother-of-thegroom. I also took a mini spray booth with me so their tans would be just right.

“On the wedding day it all came together as planned. No hitches, and most importantly, the bride’s makeup held up in the 42 degree heat. She was absolutely delighted; so was I!” At this point Rachel stops to point out the importance of employing a trained professional.

“On one occasion I was asked to do the makeup for two bridesmaids and the mother of the bride while another makeup artist attended to the bride.

When she had finished and rushed off to another appointment the bride was in tears. There hadn’t been a trial run and then it was almost too late to rectify her look on the day.

“Because I was still there, the mum asked if I could help ‘fix it’ and I was happy to do so. Every bride deserves to feel like a princess on her big day and there was no way I would have left without seeing what I could do.”

Rachel also emphasises the need to use top quality products and to truly understand skin types. “While beauty products abound, here in New Zealand makeup for many dark or ethnic skin tones is still limited. I purchase most of my products from the UK and the USA and I’ve worked with clients of all ethnicities.

“Makeup today is very technical and employing foundation creams on very dark skin tones is exacting. Even eye makeup and lipsticks need to be carefully thought through and then there are other skin conditions, and even injuries to sometimes consider.

“I once had a groom arrive at the makeup session. He’d been in a fight the night before and had a black eye.

We couldn’t have him turning up on his wedding day like that so I carried out a repair job and the bruise was well disguised.”

Although women make up the majority of her clients, Rachel has male clients too.

“Kiwi men are very masculine and find it hard to connect to the idea of having makeup applied. Even though some use a moisturiser, they seldom have a regular regime and even applying sunscreen can leave them open to a bit of ribbing from mates.

“Men from other cultures are more accustomed to wearing makeup for those special occasions. I’ve had a number of Indian bridegrooms open to using a foundation and enhancing eyes and brows for their wedding day. Of course, TV personalities are used to being made up but now many businessmen and women realise they need to look their best for corporate photographs so, a makeup job is acceptable.”

Since coming to New Zealand with her Kiwi-born husband and elder son four years ago (the couple’s younger son was born here) Rachel has concentrated mostly on special event makeup, spray tanning, eyelash extensions and hair styling, working out of her home-based studio or taking her mobile service to clients.

“But my real passion is for bridal work; I get such a thrill when brides

RACHEL MACKWOOD www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:39:39 p.m.

‘

Kiwi men are very masculine and find it hard to connect to the idea of having makeup applied.

Even though some use a moisturiser, they seldom have a regular regime and even applying sunscreen can leave them open to a bit of ribbing from mates.”

say to me that I’ve really made their day or that they never thought they could look so beautiful. Those are outcomes I expect every time.

“Of course, when I need assistance for big weddings or events, I use only trained professionals – hair and makeup artists, not friends with ‘a knack’.

“Though I’m a trained beauty therapist and makeup artist, I’m not a hair dresser, rather a creative stylist.

Hair-ups are a matter of course and recreating styles from photographs is also common although sometimes a little unrealistic” “In the UK, the industry requires both makeup and hair styling ability, particularly for photographic assignments. Subsequently I trained in both.”

With New Zealand’s summer wedding season in full swing, Rachel, is fully booked until April but says becoming established here has been a fascinating journey.

“It’s wonderful to see women enjoying the way they look when wearing beautiful makeup and also relishing the chance to experiment with makeup, often for the first time in years. Having an experienced person at hand who can give them the confidence to try a new look is important especially when a client may, for example, have used the same lipstick colour for decades and can’t imagine changing.

Photo Wayne Martin

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife february 2016.indd 47

“When shown options – I’ll try something new and take a photograph too so they can really consider the look – they are astounded how well another shade suits. Really, it’s all about ensuring clients enjoy the experience and, at the end, see themselves looking fantastic.” eastlife | february 2016 |

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29/01/2016 3:39:44 p.m.

Sophisticated

with a touch of the wild!

Exotic destinations and unique travel experiences are the inspiration behind every Loobie’s Story collection. Yet again, this is evident in the 2016 Autumn/Winter range – East West – which has the iconic Orient Express rail journey at its heart.

Walk easy!

Hot summer days call for cool sneakers that can be worn from the beach to the boardwalk. These on-trend Deuce canvas sneakers and slip-ons are breathable in the warmer weather and hardy to pavement heat as well as sand and salt air. Lightweight and easy to wear, be pretty in pink or mint this season.

This season, Loobie’s Story designer, Laurinda Sutcliffe, has established four key themes that explore the aesthetics which are fundamentally part of that journey from Paris to Istanbul. They are: Modern Tribe, 70’s Revival, Neo Classical and East Meets West.

• Modern Tribe – features a gently worn-in, glamorous feel with a palette made up of dusty winter pastels, flattering blush tones, sage, khaki and earthy pumice and taupe. It refines the tribal print and adds clever geometrics in new and whimsical ways.

• 70’s Revival – is sophisticated and laidback, with denim shapes re-engineered in power stretch and a highly wearable luxe denim modal blend. Jewel tones of teal, popping magenta pink and indigo lift prints from the ordinary. A tapestry influence comes through in peasant styling. Popular shearling options return and are perfect for transseasonal dressing.

• Neo classical – here the collection’s most sophisticated prints come to play, rendered digitally and carefully placed.

Fabrication includes stretch silks that skim the body in the most flatteringly feminine way, as well

as the return of the stretch vegan suede which has taken a step further with a perforated design.

Tones range from soft neutrals to sky blue rendered in damask and mono floral.

• East Meets West – exudes ornate embellishment and oriental motifs.

Bold patterns and intricate lace designs emerge in shades of cherry red, warm pinks and ming blue while luxe stretch silks, satin silks and brocades add a luxurious feel.

www.loobiesstory.co.nz

Valentine’s Day Collection Love is in the air for Valentine’s day as PANDORA channels the emotions of romance to create a collection that pays tribute to love. PANDORA’s new heart-inspired jewellery is filled with the tender emotions of love and romance. Crafted from sterling silver, 14ct gold, bold enamel, delicate glass and shimmering stones, the romantic pieces allow you to wear or share your heart on your sleeve. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with PANDORA.

Kiosk SPK103, The Pavillion, Botany Town Centre Ph 278 5550 • www.facebook.com/pandorabotany 11725

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www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:39:51 p.m.

Sunnies the essential accessory Bright sunny days are here and if ‘slip, slop, slap and wrap’ is a message most now heed, wearing sunglasses makes a whole lot of sense, too.

Over time the sun’s UV rays can seriously damage eyes and surrounding skin even leading to vision loss and conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration and eyelid cancer.

Sunglasses will help protect eyes against damage from UV (ultraviolet rays), bright and blue light but choosing a pair of comfortable sunnies, suitable for your requirements, can be daunting.

➊

➋

➌

Glamour goes mad While much of the country swelters in mid-summer heat, new autumn/winter fashion collections have been wrapped up and are appearing in stores around the country.

Sometimes it is best to see a professional; someone who knows sunglass frames. What’s more, for those who already wear spectacles, there are always prescription sunglasses available.

So, why choose polarised sunglasses? Light reflects off flat surfaces such as water or a flat road creating an uncomfortable glare.

Polarised lenses help to cut glare from reflected light. This means they are the best choice for the people into water sports, especially fishing!

Drivers also benefit from polarised lenses which reduce glare and haze so the eyes feel more comfortable.

However, there are also some situations where polarisation is not suitable. Talking with an optician will help to clarify if polarisation is the way to go.

Among them, Ooby Ryn designer Robyn Brooks presents Mad Glamour – a collection inspired by New York city life.

Brooks showcases her audacious style aesthetic by contrasting mad animal and camo prints alongside glamorous lace, rich velvet and classic winter colours of plum and mustard.

In the meantime, check out the WIN page to enter the draw for a pair of bollé sunglasses. See page 20.

Signature styles of the collection include a plaid pea coat with fauxfur collar, a woolen cape, a belted khaki gillet, a shearling lined leatherette trench and a classic camel coat for commuting on cold days.

However, the uptown girl will fall in love with Ooby Ryn’s sophisticated chiffon blouses, lace shift dresses, pencil skirts, and faux fur collars.

For fashionistas who embrace playful dressing; culottes, a fringed mini skirt and military inspired bomber are go-to pieces. www.oobyryn.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife february 2016.indd 49

➍ 1. Ooby Ryn Owl Dress RRP $$299, 2. Ooby Ryn Dimensions Dress RRP $299, 3. Ooby Ryn Emmys Shirt RRP $289 and Ooby Ryn Forgotten Jeans $299, 4. OOby Ryn Roses Dress RRP $349. eastlife | february 2016 |

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29/01/2016 3:39:53 p.m.

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The girls in blue!

The blue skies of summer don’t encourage autumn thinking but the cool change will soon be upon us. However, that doesn’t mean the colours of summer should give way to doom and black gloom. Now’s the time to show true blue style – that’s the colour of calm and these easy blue hues epitomise Ketz-ke’s transitional flair.

ALL CHILDREN’S FRAMES

Until end of Feb – Includes students with valid ID

The Ketz-ke autumn collection is filled with fun prints and relaxed shapes.

It shows plenty of flowing dresses with pastel prints and feminine lengths, adeptly transporting the wearer from day to night. With comfort at its core, the Relax Hoody Cape is perfect for chillier evening strolls or simply layered over the esplanade top and March pants for a barbecue with friends.

We carry one of New Zealand’s largest selections of frames If you hold a community services card talk to us about the Spectacle Subsidy

94 Picton St, Howick. Ph 534 8716. www.howickoptometrists.co.nz

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Cocoon Heavenly Body • 30 mins Body Scrub • 60 mins Aromatherapy Massage • 30 mins Facial *Valid until February 29, 2016

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2/166 Chapel Rd, Botany South. Ph: 274 9489. www.thaispa.co.nz

50 | eastlife | february 2016

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➌

➍

1. Ketz-ke Terrain Dress, RRP $169. 2. Ketz-ke Relax Hoody Cape, RRP $185 & Ketz-ke Black Clover Skirt, RRP $125. 3. Ketz-ke Esplanade Top, RRP $98. & Ketz-ke March Trackpant, RRP $145. 4. Ketz-ke Sprint Dress, RRP $185.

00683E

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:40:01 p.m.

Beauty COUNTER MAKE YOUR HAIR SHINE!

NEW HYDRATING SUPERHERO

Trying to mask unhealthy hair doesn’t work but now Manuka Doctor has delved into hair care and come up with the NEW ApiRevive Restorative Hair Mask to assist hair damaged by heat treatments such as straighteners and hair dryers. This restorative hair mask is a rich and creamy conditioning treatment for tired, stressed and damaged hair, the unique formulation of manuka honey, manuka oil and Abyssinian oil working to nourish and revitalise hair and replenish lost nutrients. Hair is left intensely nourished with long-lasting volume, a weightless finish and a fabulous shine! Manuka Doctor ApiRevive Restorative Hair Mask (RRP $39.95 100ml) available online www.manukadr.co.nz, and at selected pharmacies and department stores.

Summertime may be revitalising but it’s also the season when more flesh is revealed so the key to stepping out with healthy and radiant-looking skin is all about hydration. Oasis Beauty’s new body lotion – The Hydrator – is designed to quench the skin’s thirst with long-lasting hydration. It is packed with avocado oil to nourish, shea butter to hydrate, honey to soothe and vitamin E to help resist premature ageing.

It absorbs quickly to leave all skin types perfectly hydrated, smoothed, soothed and ready to be revealed! Oasis Beauty The Hydrator RRP ($29.90 250ml) available at selected health stores and pharmacies.

ON THE BALL WITH FRUITY TREATS How sweet is this? Designer Brands has brought on-trend Balm Balls to New Zealand to help soften repair, sooth and protect lips that are subjected to salt water, wind burn and sunburn.

Containing a selection of lip-loving ingredients such as vitamin E, honeysuckle, shea butter, peppermint and jojoba, DB Balm Balls come in six delicious flavours – Luscious Lemon, Tasty Tropical, Mighty Mint, Blissful Berry, Sweet Strawberry and Heavenly Honeysuckle. Designer Brands Balm Balls (RRP $6.99) are vegan-friendly and are available at selected pharmacies.

NEW BFFS FROM TRILOGY Make Trilogy’s Age-Proof Nutrient Plus Firming Serum and Line Smoothing Day Cream your new BFFs – best firming friends!

They include age-proof botanical actives including Glycablend™, a potent pure plant oil blend of pomegranate, blueberry, strawberry and chia seed oils; botanical hydroxyproline, a natural amino acid that helps fight wrinkles and plant-derived hyaluronic acid, delivering a plumping and smoothing action while hydrating the complexion.

Trilogy Age-Proof Nutrient Plus Firming Serum (RRP $48.90) and Trilogy Age-Proof Line Smoothing Day Cream (RRP $55.90).

Available from selected Farmers, pharmacy, department and health stores.

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife february 2016.indd 51

ENJOY YEAR-ROUND NATURAL GLOW While everyone wants healthy, glowing skin no one wants the ageing wrinkles that can result from baking under the sun. But now it’s easy to gain an instant, subtle glow thanks to Manuka Doctor ApiBronze Age-Defying Facial Bronzing Gel. This multi-tasking lightly tinted bronzing gel offers the benefit of purified bee venom (PBVTM) to help visibly promote the skin’s elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines. NZ manuka honey also helps to increase moisturisation and promote skin elasticity. Suitable for all skin types Manuka Doctor ApiBronze Age-Defying Bronzing Gel (RRP $29.95 50ml) available at www.manukadr.co.nz or at selected stores.

GOODNESS – WHO’S IN THE BUFF! The naked truth about Goodness Every Week Face Scrub is that it’s packed with natural ingredients to give tired complexions the perfect polish. When your skin needs buffing, this desirable face scrub does the job.

Goodness looked to New Zealand’s shoreline for its key ingredient, pumice. This was ground into a natural scrubbing powder for scratch-free exfoliation then Goodness added other great stuff from Mother Nature, including avocado, coconut oils, apple extract and certified organic chia seed oil – so good! Goodness Every Week Face Scrub (RRP $15.99 50ml) available in selected Countdown, Farmers and New World stores. eastlife | february 2016 |

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Time fix your skin

To finally

Local experience and expertise you can

trust

Let this be your year!

Come to About skin and receive a free consultation to solve all of your skin issues.

Dr Ruvin Gabriel

Dr Wil Harrison

Dr Tim Sutton

We at About skin believe that everyone deserves great skin!

We provide the latest, most effective treatments available at an affordable price.

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The Auckland Heart Group is an Affiliated Provider to Southern Cross Health Society and has Healthcare Partnerships with Sovereign and nib.

To find out more, talk to our team on 09 623 1020 or 09 623 4731 ahg@heartgroup.co.nz www.heartgroup.co.nz 125 Ormiston Road, Botany Junction, Auckland 01951-v5

Other clinic locations: Glenfield, New Lynn, Papakura, St Heliers

MARINA PLASTIC SURGERY “SURGERY BY THE SEA” ■ Facial Plastic Surgery for skin cancers, treatment of melanoma, BCC (Basal Cell Carcinoma), SCC (Squamous Cell Carcinoma) and various skin lesions ■ Cosmetic Plastic Surgery – Face lifts, neck lifts, eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, otoplasty, breast augmentation, reduction and reconstruction, abdominoplasty, liposuction and liposculpture, hand surgery, injectable dermal fillers etc ■ Mole Checks

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Drs Gabriel, Harrison, Sutton and Van Pelt are cardiologists at Middlemore Hospital and provide a private cardiology service with the Auckland Heart Group at Ormiston Hospital. They are committed to providing comprehensive assessments and management of outpatients and in-patients at Ormiston Hospital including exercise treadmill tests, echocardiography and vascular ultrasound, stress echocardiography, heart and blood pressure monitoring.

Make the right choice about your dental care We are dedicated to your personal well-being through dental health • Teeth whitening • All ceramic tooth filling materials using Cerec3 cad-cam, 3D technology • Permanent tooth replacements with dental implants • For gum health and maintenance call our hygienist Shelley Chadwick • All aspects of general dentistry

Marina Specialists

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Evening appointments available Call us now on 530 8461 or 530 8271 Whitford Village, Whitford, Auckland David Cain B.D.S(UK) • Rick Parfitt B.D.S. • Shelley Chadwick

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First Floor, “Compass Building”, Ara Tai Drive, Half Moon Bay Marina Ph 534 4040 • Fax 537 0147 www.plassurg.co.nz • EDI: marinasp

urgery” 01219

52 | eastlife | february 2016

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www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:40:06 p.m.

THE WAY IT SHOULD BE FOR OPTIMUM HEALTH CLIVE PLUCKNETT, Naturopath, P.G.Dip. Anti Aging Medicine, P.G.Dip. Cancer Nutrition, P.G.Dip. Mental Health Nutrition, MBA, BA, P.G.Dip Science

I was just dwelling on why anyone would call their child “Archibald”, when Archie (his preferred name) bounced into the surgery.

Normally, I can look at someone and see signs of deficiencies and imbalances, but this guy looked pretty darn good.

“How are you?” I greeted.

“Really good thanks and I want to stay that way. That’s why I’m here.”

For a moment I faced east and nearly wet myself. This was the client I have been waiting for my entire career. His next words confirmed this.

“Look, I know the stats: one in two people get cancer; one in four die from it; one in three people die from cardiovascular disease; 12.5 years in dependent care before death and nearly everyone will suffer from some chronic condition. I want to get the most out of my life, each and every day. I want to live it to the fullest, now and in my latter years.”

By now, I was whimpering, shedding tears of joy. There was sanity among madness.

We ran a series of especially designed tests for Archie. Overall he did extremely well. He had a slight zinc deficiency, his stomach acid was low, his pH was slightly off and he had parasites. There was nothing in the results that indicated he was in ill health, but the deficiencies and imbalances were signs of things that could, over time, develop into disease.

Archie was overjoyed with the findings. We tweaked his diet and exercise routine and made an appointment to check his status in three months time.

This is the way we should look after our most precious gift – health. We do it for our cars. We think nothing of putting our cars in for a service and check up every few months, yet we don’t afford our bodies the same luxury.

Would you rather pay $400 for a service or $4,000 for a new engine?

Would you rather pay $1000 to stay in good health or $40,000 for chemotherapy?

When I put this analogy to one of my clients with high blood pressure, high cholesterol pre-diabetes, and erectile dysfunction, he replied: “Well Clive, I put the dollars into the car, because I need it to take me from A to B”…..Oh really? Now think about that.

In this country, we are fixated with disease, not health. Our whole health system is aimed at the sick, not at keeping well. We spend billions on trying to bring people back to health, when it would be so much simpler and cheaper to just keep them there.

It is not just the dollars, it’s the pain, suffering and loss.

Now, here is a radical idea. What about showing your body the same respect you show your car and allow it to serve you faithfully into a healthy, pain-free and happy later life.

At bewell, we can test and show you your wellness status and what you can do to improve it.

BeWell Clinic – Unleash Your Wellness Potential 730 Whitford Road, Whitford Village.

Ph 530 8143, 021 490 801. bewell@clear.net.nz. www.bewell.net.nz Disclaimer: This article is general information only and is not to be used as a substitute to professional, personalised advice. The views are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or editor. www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife february 2016.indd 53

Pregnant Statistics show September 30 is New Zealand’s most common birthday. While we can only speculate, this could have something to do with Valentine’s Day falling roughly nine months beforehand. So, forget chocolates, jewellery or flowers, this would make, well, ‘you know what’, the most common Valentine’s gift of all!

However, although the reward of a little bundle of joy can make it all worthwhile, pregnancy is no picnic. So, to help mums-to-be through their winter of discontent (which follows that summer of ‘love’), Natural Meds has conceived Enzymedica’s Digest Pregnancy, which features a unique combination of vegetarian enzymes and organic ginger root.

Designed to help from conception to delivery, Digest Pregnancy can decrease discomfort and queasiness, as well as digestive upsets such as gas and bloating, while promoting nutrient absorption.

PAUSE...

‘

WIN! EastLife has THREE bottles of Digest Pregnancy (90 capsules – RRP $58.95 each) up for grabs. Enter at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close February 29, 2016.

Winner notified by phone or email.

What’s more, as the capsules are free of fillers, colours and binders, they’re as pure as the driven snow... as many wish they had’ve been back on Valentine’s Day!

I GOTTA BE A METRO MAN! Since David Beckham kicked up his heels in an Alice band, fashionistas have been competing to raise the bar ever higher when outfitting today’s ‘metrosexual’ man.

However, it seems the man bun is definitely on a roll – even ‘Becks’ has been seen sporting one. When EastLife came across this excerpt from a recent, deliciously tonguein-cheek, Groupon offer advertising attachable, artificial hair pieces, we couldn’t help but share it: One of the hottest trends in men’s fashion, the man bun has been popularised by wholefood fanatics and Instagram celebrities alike.

Heads are now being bunned from Pittsburgh to Ponsonby.

But although the hairstyle oozes with fashion sense, those who sport it might find themselves outcasts in pubs, motorcycle gangs, and the annual government-mandated machismo test.

This attachable and — equally

importantly — detachable man bun lets you blend in with your surroundings, putting it on when you smell fair-trade coffee or hear a ukulele, and taking it off when someone utters the word ‘bro’.

Comb your hair back toward the crown of your head, in a similar motion to lacquering a reclaimedwood coffee table [oh, now we get it!]. Attach the man bun to your natural hair the way the public attaches itself to Russell Crowe during the Hollywood award season.

Well done, Groupon, when it comes to wit, you wear it well!

PLEASE NOTE: this is a serious offer!

Even though this particular offer may now have expired, readers can enquire further by contacting Groupon via grouponnz.co.nz. eastlife | february 2016 |

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29/01/2016 3:40:15 p.m.

Getting out and about Talk to the team at your local Jetts club for more health tips and exercise information. This article is provided by Olly Coffey, Development and Support for mibodycoach.com, and consultant to Jetts 24-Hour Fitness.

Long days and the fine weather are set to stay for a while making it a great time to keep those New Year resolutions on track and to become more active outdoors.

Here are some simple ideas on how to increase outdoor activity and maintain a training programme.

• Little and often: It is generally recommended to be active for 30 minutes a day. Simply go for a walk or get out and tidy up your garden. If you have limited time, break your 30 minutes down into three smaller 10 minute efforts.

• Run or walk a new route each week: Mixing up training routes allows you to enjoy new sights and face new challenges.

• Include hills or stairs as a means of interval training: By simply including hills or a staircase into your route,

the physical demands placed on your body are increased.

• Vary the terrain: Mix up cardio training by varying the terrain you choose. Walking or running is very different on the road to trails or even the beach.

• Add some resistance-based bodyweight exercises: Build some body weight exercises into your walk or run – squats, press ups, lunges, crunches or pull ups.

incorporated into your daily routine.

• Use the environment: When exercising outdoors, all kinds of objects or natural forms can be used as exercise apparatus – a bench seat, playground or a staircase can be turned into a challenging exercise.

• Sign up to an event: There are many different sporting events that cater for a wide range of abilities. Training for a specific purpose helps you stay motivated. You will feel fantastic as you reach the finish line.

• Cycle to work: Cycling is great exercise as well as an easy mode of transport. By cycling to work, school or around town, exercise is easily

• Social sports: Being active is the key to staying healthy. Joining a social sports league is a fantastic way to combine being active and having fun.

• Weather watch – be prepared: Exercising outdoors is fun. Check the weather and be prepared. Slop on sunscreen if it is hot, grab a jacket if it is wet and pack a towel and change of clothes for afterwards.

Exercise in any form will improve health and wellness. For more advice on how to enjoy being active, visit your local gym or make an appointment with a qualified exercise professional.

Join together for $41 each and receive a bonus free towel* • No lock in contracts or cancellation fees • Memberships from $10.95 pp per week* • Free 30min Exercise Professional assessment • Access to over 50 clubs nationwide • Supportive team and motivating environment

Achieve s l a o g r u o y together

54 | eastlife | february 2016

Botany - (09) 215 9370 - 309 Botany Rd Botany Junction - (09) 215 7867 - 277 Te Irirangi Dr Highland Park - (09) 213 7469 - 491 Pakuranga Rd Highbrook - (09) 213 7257 - 67 Highbrook Dr Howick - (09) 215 2450 - 97a Picton St

Sign up at www.jettsonline.co.nz Find you nearest club at www.jetts.co.nz. *$41 start up fee applies to all persons joining any Jetts club, whether joining as an individual or with a friend or family member. Only those persons who join with a friend or family at the same club at the same time will each be eligible to receive a bonus free Jetts towel. Stocks are limited and towels will be issued on a first come first served basis. Jetts fortnightly membership options are based on a recurring direct debit from a nominated bank account or credit card. 12 month memberships are paid a year in advance. Family membership option is available when two or more friends or family members join the same club at the same time. Jetts Fitness terms and conditions apply and are availabe at www.jettsonline.co.nz/terms.

Offer expires 29.02.2016.

www.eastlife.co.nz

24 hour fitness 02156

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29/01/2016 3:40:19 p.m.

Beating the bulge Most celebrities know a good thing when they see it so, if some of the world’s limelighters give the thumbs up to the Atkins weight management programme, maybe others can benefit too!

Holiday indulgences will have taken their toll and those feeling the bulge will, no doubt, be looking at diets and eating plans.

In particular, the low-carb, Atkins weight management programme, is followed by a number of celebrities including singer and rapper Pharrell Williams, Atkins Ambassador, UK Model and TV personality, Kelly Brook and Alyssa Milano, actress, producer, designer and activist, who is also a US Atkins Ambassador.

Fish of the Month

snapper From Oceanz Seafood, The Hub, Botany Snapper is an Auckland favourite – for both fishermen in the Hauraki Gulf and seafood lovers alike. The name snapper comes from its big molars at the back of the mouth which, if handlers are not careful, could ‘snap’ a finger off.

But you don’t have to be a celebrity to enjoy the benefits of Atkins.

The programme is easy to follow, with the basic principles centered around:

41

• Vegetables and Fibre – Nutrient rich vegetables – particularly lots of fibre-filled leafy greens – help moderate blood sugar which assists with appetite control • Protein – Adequate (but not unlimited!) protein from sources including poultry, red meat, fish, tofu and eggs, helps you feel full and blood sugar on an even keel • Fat – Improve flavour and satiety with healthy fats from foods such as lean meat, dairy, nuts, olive oil, canola oil, avocado, and olives • Scrap sugar and refined carbs – Eliminating these empty carbs – which send both blood sugar and appetite on a roller coaster – is essential to good health, hunger management and weight control • Fruits, nuts and dairy – Cheese, natural yogurt, nuts, seeds and low sugar fruits add great tasting variety to your diet and can be enjoyed as snacks or as part of every meal • Getting physical – Regular exercise is essential to any wellness programme. It is good for the mind, body and spirit!

And for those craving a tasty, www.eastlife.co.nz

Snapper flesh is soft and white, with few bones. Its sweet flavour makes it perfect for a summer barbecue served with salads and rosemary potatoes although there are a multitude of recipes which make snapper great eating any time of the year.

A sample day on a plate includes:

Atkins Day on a Plate

g Carbs

Breakfast: Poached eggs with spinach, tomato and hollandaise sauce Snack: Celery stalks with cream cheese Lunch: Salmon sashimi with soy sauce, and a salad of rocket, cherry tomatoes, avocado and shaved parmesan Snack: Atkins Endulge Chocolate Break Bar Dinner: Atkins Pasta -– Carbonara Penne

5.5 2.6 7.8g

TOTAL

22.3

convenient snack on the go, Atkins offers a range of low carb, low sugar bars, shakes, nibbles and meal complements to keep one satisfied.

The low-carb Atkins programme has been scientifically reformulated as the Atkins Nutritional Approach – a flexible, four-phased programme to help followers build a diet around whole foods rich in vitamins and ‘good carbohydrates’ including low sugar fruits, leafy green vegetables,

4 2.4

whole grains, nuts, legumes, dairy, good fats and protein (fish, poultry, red meat and tofu).

At the same time it eliminates highly processed carbs such as white flour (white bread, white pasta) and sugar.

It is free to follow. Simply log on to atkins.com to learn more and to register to obtain a free starter kit or to access low-carb recipe ideas and tasty snacks to help achieve health aims.

Snapper are known to live to about 60 years and grow to about one metre in length. They take around 5 years to reach the legal size (30 cms)which allows them to be kept by recreational fishermen.

Snapper are carnivorous fish and feed on sea worms and small crustaceans found in the ocean. Big snapper eat fish as well as larger, harder-bodied animals such as kina, crabs and shellfish.

The influx of snapper into the Hauraki Gulf during summer is driven by the spawning season, which occurs from October to February when the water temperature is right.

Fish usually come back to the same breeding grounds each year. They release more than 100 thousand eggs each time and the male releases the sperm to fertilise the eggs in the large spawning grounds.

Take the opportunity to go snapper fishing this summer or alternatively head down to your local fish shop for snapper and chips – you won’t be disappointed. eastlife | february 2016 |

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29/01/2016 3:40:23 p.m.

Salmon savvy for summer From medieval feasts to modern menus, salmon has long been popular whether entertaining family, friends or royalty.

Now, Regal Marlborough King Salmon is spicing up holiday tables with a new flavour inspired by the celebrated Thai Larb dish. A sweet chilli, lime and mint flavour has been added to its wood roasted range and Regal has also brought back the popular Ready to Roast seasonal fillet with the same piquancy.

It’s been three years since Regal Salmon had a fillet option especially for summer celebrations but this year the new flavour is available in both forms for season and beyond.

The Regal Ready to Roast fillet is a pre-packaged side seasoned with sweet chilli, lime and mint, which needs to be cooked.

NZ King Salmon general manager of marketing, Jemma McCowan says, “just pop it in the oven at 200 degrees and cook for 20 minutes, it’s that simple.

Importantly, the health benefits of Omega-3 oils are widely recognised by health professionals and King salmon consistently contains some of the highest levels per serving of longchain Omega-3 oils.

Because we have already flavoured the Regal Ready to Roast fillet there’s virtually no prep work. In fact, you can roast or barbecue the fillet and serve in a myriad of ways. It’s a great healthy alternative to ham or turkey.”

Quick ideas with Regal Salmon Wood Roasted Sweet Chilli, Lime & Mint:

She add that the fillet is a fail-proof entertaining dish and is available in random sizes and weights only from New World and Pak ‘n’ Save supermarkets.

• Use Regal Salmon Wood Roasted Sweet Chilli, Lime & Mint with cucumber and bean sprouts and wrap up in rice paper wraps, serve with sweet chilli dipping sauce.

On the other hand, the Regal Wood Roasted Sweet Chilli, Lime & Mint Salmon is the fifth in the range and is available in 200g portions from supermarkets nationwide and has a recommended retail price of $15.95.

• Mix flaked Regal Salmon Wood Roasted Sweet Chilli, Lime & Mint with soaked vermicelli noodles, shredded cucumber, mung bean sprouts, fried shallots and chopped roasted cashews.

• Take very finely sliced or Julienne courgettes and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, top with flaked Regal Salmon Wood Roasted Sweet Chilli, Lime & Mint and garnish with plenty of fresh mint leaves for a quick summer meal.

Regal Ready to Roast Fillet with Mango & Herb Salad Serves 6

INGREDIENTS: • 1 x Regal Ready to Roast Fillet Sweet Chilli, Lime & Mint • 1 mango • 1 pomegranate • 1/2 cup mint leaves • 1 cup flat leaf parsley or basil leaves, roughly chopped • 2-3 radishes, sliced thinly • 1 large red chilli, sliced thinly • 3-4 gherkins, sliced thinly • 1 spring onion, thinly sliced • 150g cherry tomatoes, halved • 300g bocconcini Dressing: • 3 tbsp olive oil • 2 limes, juice of • 2-3 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, roughly chopped • 2 tbsp pomegranate juice, reserved from fruit •S alt and freshly ground black pepper • To serve, lime wedges

METHOD: Remove Regal Salmon from the fridge and allow to come to temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.

Preheat oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with non-stick tin foil or baking

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paper. Remove salmon from the pack and place on tray.

Bake in oven for 20-23 minutes.

Leave to rest for 5 minutes.

While the salmon is cooking prepare the salad. Cut segments from the mango avoiding the stone, and peel away skin. Cut pomegranate in half

and use the pointy end of a small spoon to dig into the fruit to remove seeds. Do this over a bowl and reserve juice that drips out.

Arrange salad ingredients on a serving platter including the mango, herbs, radishes, chilli slices, gherkins, spring onions, cherry tomatoes and pomegranate seeds. Pull apart the

small bocconcini into pieces and arrange on top.

Mix the salad dressing ingredients together in a small bowl or glass jar.

Serve the salmon accompanied with salad and pour over the dressing just before serving. Serve hot or cold. www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:40:27 p.m.

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | february 2016 |

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29/01/2016 3:40:30 p.m.

Food for thought Holidays are made for relaxing and summer’s light evenings are just the encouragement foodies need to dine out. These ‘small bites’ from a range of eateries may well guide diners to new destinations.

AROMA Cafe Unexpected visitors? A quick trip to Aroma’s in the Pakuranga Plaza food hall could be the sweet deal you’re looking for. French-trained chef and owner, Djaiz Ammar makes the most delicious fruit tartlets – gorgeous short pasty, silky custard filling and almost overflowing with a topping of fruit – choose from apricot, blueberry or apple. So very yum when served with whipped cream, crème fraiche or yoghurt.

Check out Aroma’s breakfast/lunch options too – keenly priced and as good as any restaurant, if not better!

Urban Soul Manukau In you haven’t lunched at Urban Soul in Manukau then you haven’t lived. A innovative menu (in addition to a bountiful range of counter food) offers the likes of Thai prawn and noodle fritters with zesty mango salsa; lemongrass grilled chicken on coconut and almond pilaf with a rustic carrot salad; and Spanish hash ‘n’ eggs a glorious blend of roast potatoes, onions, beans, bacon chorizo and

fried eggs – and that’s just three tasty temptations. The success of this Parisian-influenced cafe begs the question – ‘why don’t more restaurants offer these types of dishes on their regular menus?

They would be such an appetising alternative to the good old lamb rack, fillet steak or pork belly whilst also suiting those seeking lighter, satisfying meals with a touch of imagination.

Basalt Howick The Monday night, $17 chicken parmigiana special at Basalt in Howick has its ardent followers and so it should but it’s easy to be distracted by other goodies on the menu especially the seared ostrich fillet with roasted cauliflower, nashi pear salsa, shallots and jus or the dukkah-crusted, seared tuna with grilled cucumber, pickled cherry tomatoes, broad beans, roasted radicchio, wasabi and lemon mayo.

At the upper end of Basalt menu prices, nevertheless these two dishes are the kind to salivate over.

Once again, such a change from the same old, same old!

Poco Loco – Pukekohe It’s hard to go past tapas when craving a taste of this and that.

And, it’s even harder to go past Pukekohe’s Poco Loco. It may be a hike to head for the hills but many have sung this cafe’s praises. For sure, it’s easy – as its name suggests – to go a ‘little crazy’ over this rustic venue, with cheerful, bustling service and a menu bursting with piquant Mediterranean flavours. For example, the fried kumara, chorizo and potato chips coated in balsamic glaze with feta are something out of the ordinary (do not think French fries). Then there

are those moreish Arancini – rice balls with mozzarella cheese, sundried tomato and basil or try the scallops in garlic butter with chorizo crumbs topped with a minted pea puree.

Of course, there are many other ‘small plates’ that are hard to pass by – the sticky ribs for one – and for dessert, who can resist the churros with chocolate or the churro icecream sandwich with caramel sauce? For sure, Poco Loco’s accolades are well deserved and those who make the trek to Pukekohe are sure to appreciate the menu which has made Franklin foodies passionate fans.

Add a splash of flavour to meals The medieval saint Genevieve, patroness of Paris, is said to have defended the city against Attila the Hun through her rational thinking and courage. Now, it seems awardwinning maker of artisan pâté and seafood mousse, Genevieve Knight, has employed similar traits to create the country’s first range of chilled dressings and vinaigrettes – three years in the making and the perfect defence against foods that are bland and lacking in bite!

A qualified chef, food writer and food photographer based in Auckland, Genevieve started making her artisan pâté for Parnell’s La Cigale French Markets in 2011. Her pâté and seafood mousse were hits and, now, her new range of fresh dressings made from quality ingredients and vinaigrettes, come in six mouthwatering flavours: • Classic French Vinaigrette – made with a creamy blend of fresh garlic,

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whole seed and Dijon mustard. A great general purpose salad dressing.

• Sesame and Soy Vinaigrette – a nutty, toasted sesame seed dressing sweetened with Ataraki Honey. Serve over steamed Asian greens, seared beef or salmon.

• Saffron and Orange Vinaigrette – a blend of saffron spice, fresh orange zest and Ataraki Honey. Perfect as a marinade for chicken and fish or over

an avocado or grated carrot salad.

• Smoked Chilli Vinaigrette – made with chipotle peppers, authentic chipotle powder and blended in a smoked tomato adobo sauce. Drizzle over Mexican-style salads such as corn and avocado or use as a taco topping.

• Classic Caesar Dressing – with New Zealand-made Parmesan and flavoured with fresh lemon zest, black

pepper and a hint of anchovy. Serve with Caesar salad or on roast chicken.

• Blue Cheese Dressing – made with crumbled Whitestone blue cheese.

Toss through potato salads or serve with juicy seared beef.

The entire range is free of eggs, gluten and emulsifiers, and comes in 245ml resealable pouches (RRP $9.99). Available at New World, Nosh, or Farro Fresh stores. www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:40:38 p.m.

Taste

Try our latest flavours of the month and experience a range of new products with a real taste difference. EastLife is always on the lookout for new products to tantalise the tastebuds of our readers.

MILK MATTERS – STRAIGHT UP YOGHURT! From cow to carton, The Collective’s Straight Up thick, silky, completely natural probiotic yoghurt with its sharp and tangy taste has been a best seller since it hit the shelves. Now it has been blended with three new flavours – maple, coconut and blueberry. Straight Up coconut and blueberry contain no added cane sugar and are sweetened only by fruit and yoghurt, while maple includes natural coconut and maple syrup, which gives it a toasted caramel finish. They are gluten-free, vegetarian, and have no artificial ingredients or preservatives. The new Collective Straight Up yoghurts, (RRP $7.99 each, 900g) available at supermarkets and specialty food stores.

NEW VITAFRESH FOR KIDS !

NEW FRUITY SNACKS RANGE FOR THE KIDS! Spice may be nice but fruit is the real loot when it comes to snacks worth their weight in gold. Yes, baking brand *Fresh Life has launched an exciting new range of fruity snacks, perfect for snacking at home, at school or on the go. There are four to choose from: Raisins 6 x 30g, Raisins 12 x 14g, Raisins & Apricots 12 x 14g and Mixed Fruits 12 x 14g. Each is a great alternative to sugar-laden muesli bars or biscuits.

Available exclusively from Countdown, they RRP at between $2.99 & $3.99 per pack. Visit www.nz.freshlife.com.au

CIAO, BABY – ENJOY THE FLAVOURS OF ITALY With summer in full swing, it’s time for open doors as friends and family are welcomed into your home. But be sure you have stocked pantry and fridge with all those delectable Ghiotti goodies to treat expected and unexpected guests. Yes, the Ghiotti range of staples is a must – mouth-watering cured meats, plump juicy olives, and cheeses...so perfect for creating incredible feasts and decadent platters. Alternatively, pop them in pasta or on a pizza, open sandwiches too! Ghiotti products are available at specialty food stores and supermarkets nationwide. www.europeanfoods.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

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When it comes to a vitality boost, kids on the juice are sure to find their get up and go in the new range of Vitafresh Fruit Drinks just for kids. Young life is sure to be sweeter with these fruit drinks even though Vitafresh Made For Kids is 98% sugar-free, with no artificial ingredients. It contains stevia extract for sweetness and Monk Fruit juice, which is sweet like sugar but without all the calories. The only small amount of sugar in them comes from the real fruit content. Vitafresh Made for Kids comes in three delicious flavours – Orange and Mango; Apple and Blackcurrant; and Tropical. Vitafresh Made for Kids available at New World and Pak’n’Save supermarkets (RRP $3.99 2.7L bottle).

SOFTNESS AND GLUTEN FREE PERFECTION! Summer’s here and bread has a thousand uses – think barbecued sausages wrapped in bread, fresh salad sandwiches and, of course, bread with peanut butter.

Unfortunately, being gluten-free can mean sandwiches aren’t always on the menu. That’s because gluten-free bread can be slightly firm and wrapping bread around a sausage can result in the bread breaking . However, Gluten Freedom Everyday Sandwich Bread Brown (RRP $6.49) is soft and malleable, with great texture and a high fibre content. It is also soy and dairy-free and available at selected supermarkets and specialty food stores.

HOW’D YOU LIKE THEM APPLES? While summer may be coming to an end, thanks to Mac’s it never needs to set on cider. Crafted using crisp Hawkes Bay apples, Mac’s Mid Tempo Cider offers a fresh juicy finish, with a middle of the road APV of just 2.5%. So, we can roll along with the last of the lazy hazy crazy days of summer without fear of falling too far off the wagon!

Mac’s Mid Tempo is available (RRP $26.99/ 12 pack of 330ml bottles) from supermarkets and liquor outlets.

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dining Mains $10-$24 = $ Mains $25-$34 = $$ Mains $35+ = $$$

THAI

Restaurant

BENJARONG THAI RESTAURANT

PASSITO ITALIAN RESTAURANT

OCEANZ SEAFOOD BOTANY

After 16 successful years in the heart of Howick, Benjarong is a household name in the east, consistently maintaining its tradition of menu, service and decor excellence. Now, a stunning new makeover and a Monday to Thursday Happy Hour with the most delectable snacking plates and low, low prices, is providing dedicated foodies who love the exotic with scores of reasons to dine at this Howick jewel.

Come in and try our award-winning wood-fired pizza or gourmet pasta from our NEW SUMMER MENU!

From our boats to your plates – At Oceanz we pride ourselves on the consistency and freshness of our seafood and on the awardwinning takeaways we have been serving our customers for more than 10 years.

• HAPPY HOUR MON-THURS – $6 beers and house wine from 4.30-6.30pm 87 Picton Street, Howick. Ph 533 9568.

Open Lunch Mon-Sat 11.30am-2.30pm, Dinner 7 nights 4.30pm till late www.benjarong.co.nz

LICENSED • BYOW

• OPEN LUNCH EVERY DAY • AWARD-WINNING WOOD-FIRED PIZZA – Take-away available • NEW SUMMER MENU • GOLF MEMBERS 10% OFF: Pakuranga Golf Club, Howick Golf Club. T&C apply • CATERING OPTIONS AVAILABLE • PRIVATE FUNCTIONS AVAILABLE – We create menus to suit your needs and budgets

• CHECK OUT OUR MOST POPULAR TAKEAWAY – the Skippers Meal, featuring two pieces of fish, one serve of chips and two squid rings for only $11.50!

1/451 Ti Rakau Drive, The Hub, Botany.

Ph 271 4880 Open Sun-Thurs 9am-7pm, Fri-Sat 9am-7.30pm www.oceanz.co.nz

298B Ti Rakau Dr, Burswood. Ph 273 9797.

Open Monday-Sunday 11.30am-late www.passito.co.nz • Find us on facebook

$$

LICENSED

$$

$

RESTAURANT & BAR

TUAKAU HOTEL

ROSSINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT

XACUTI RESTAURANT & BAR

Elsie’s Restaurant in the award-winning Tuakau Hotel offers classical dining with elegant country ambiance. For an intimate evening out or a group celebration, Elsie’s Restaurant is the popular choice, enjoy a fantastic menu created with locally sourced ingredients, adding a city sophistication to traditional menu favourites. Book your table today and try what our region has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you.

A local, family-owned and run establishment since 1993, Rossini Italian Restaurant in Howick prides itself on traditional Italian fare served in cosy, warm surroundings. Family-style meals – hearty, rustic and full of flavour. Check out this well-loved favourite offering lively music, friendly service and excellent food. Affordably priced and BYO, Rossini is perfect for a casual week night meal or for that special occasion.

Available for functions 7 days, lunch and dinner.

Xacuti is Auckland’s first Goan-Portuguese restaurant. It celebrates the cuisine and culture of Goa which was colonised by the Portuguese for more than 450 years. Its culinary style is largely seafood-based and symbolises a harmony of flavours from East and West.

Intense spices especially chilli, as well as chicken and coconut milk, are also typical of this unique cuisine.

1-3 George Street, Tuakau. Ph 09 236 8084. restaurant@tuakauhotel.co.nz Open Monday-Friday 10am-10pm Weekends 8am-late or by arrangement for group functions www.tuakauhotel.co.nz

LICENSED

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$$

• 20% Off YOUR BILL ON pRESENTATION Of ThIS ADvERT Up TO $50 vALUE

• CUISINE BEYOND BOUNDARIES Eat. Live. Enjoy.

• NOW OPEN FOR LUNCH SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

7A/125 Meadowlands Drive, Meadowlands, howick. ph 537 5554.

Open Tuesday-Sunday 5.30pm-11.00pm

124 Picton St, Howick. Ph 534 3051.

Open Tuesday-Sunday 6pm till 10.30pm www.xacuti.co.nz

LICENSED • BYO

$

LICENSED • BYO

$$ www.eastlife.co.nz

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dining Mains $10-$24 = $ Mains $25-$34 = $$ Mains $35+ = $$$

THE APOTHECARY

DooLaN BrothErS BotaNy

CASA TUA RESTAURANT

COME IN and TRY the NEW MENU at The Apothecary Licensed Bar and Eatery!

Doolans Botany serves a fine array of pub food, encompassing NZ’s freshest produce. Our kids’ meals all come with a wee surprise to keep the little ones occupied whilst you enjoy your meal.

Sundays are a great day to spend relaxing at Doolans. With a live acoustic duo and outdoor cocktail bar serving fruit daiquiris in our sunny beer garden, it’s worth giving the beach a miss.

If you’re looking for tasty Italian fare, then look no further. Cosily tucked away in Farm Cove, you’ll find Casa Tua Restaurant & The Tapas Room. We’re open Tuesday-Sunday every evening where you can dine in our main restaurant, enjoy tapas in The Tapas Room or grab takeaways on your way home. BYO Wine is available when dining in the main restaurant.

Full bar available in The Tapas Room. We’re also the perfect venue for private functions.

• NEW BREAkfAST AND LUNCH MENU – Café OPEN 7 days from 7am • TRY OUR NEW SMALL PLATE DINING MENU – Wednesday-Saturday, 6pm till late • THE CELLAR HAPPY HOUR – 4-6pm Wed-Sat, $5 wine and beer, $9 cocktails

• rEStaUraNt QUaLIty FooD @ PUB PrICES – 2 courses for $34.95 or 3 courses for $39.95 from 5pm weekdays and all day weekends.

Planning a function? Choose The Apothecary for your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday! We’ll make your function one to remember! Email info@theapothecary.co.nz

588 Chapel road, Botany town Centre Ph 271 2001. open 7 days, 9am-10pm www.doolanbrothers.co.nz

27-29 Picton St, Howick. Ph 535 9661. www.facebook.com/theapothecaryhowick

LICENSED

$$

LICENSED

• $6 HOUSE DRINKS DAILY FROM 5-7PM • BOOK NOW FOR VALENTINES DAY 190 Fisher Parade, Farm Cove. Ph 576 3739.

Open 6 nights, Tues to Sun Bar from 4pm, Restaurant 6pm-late. www.casa-tua.co.nz

$$

BYO • LICENSED

$$

Red Shed

Palazzo

www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

SZIMPLA GASTRO BAR

LONE STAR MANUKAU

RED ShED PaLazzo CoUNTRY CaFE

There’s nothing Szimpla than dropping in at a popular gastro bar for a taste of great food and atmosphere. Stop and linger before or after a flight, and revel in the magic of Szimpla’s beautiful Balinese courtyard and contemporary decor. Close to accommodation and the airport; forget the hassle, just sit back, relax and enjoy the Szimplicity. Weekend brunches from 10am.

With seating for 120 and a discreet dining area Lone Star Manukau is perfect for big families, work or sport groups who wish to celebrate together. Any occasion is welcome. Children are always welcome – they have their own menu and don’t forget to tell us if it’s your birthday!

Tucked down Jesmond Rd, just 1km from the motorway off-ramp at Drury, Red Shed Palazzo is a stylish eatery nestled amongst beautiful country gardens. Family (and dog) friendly with a children’s playground, the tranquil environment offers relaxed indoor/outdoor dining and is perfect for special occasions.

• BOOk NOw fOR vALENTINE’S DAy – delicious specials available • LET uS PLAy hOST – for up to 100 people • NEw CRAfT BREwS COMING SOON!

• Check out lonestargrabameal.co.nz – new meal deals updated daily at 8.30am

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Red Shed Palazzo is a fully licensed country cafe offering a mouth-watering menu of creative breakfasts, well-balanced lunches, outstanding cake/dessert selection and delicious ALLPRESS coffee.

792 Great South Rd, Manukau.

Ph 985 0590.

Cafe open Monday-Sunday 5pm until late.

Bar open Monday-Sunday 4pm until late. www.lonestar.co.nz

2 Leonard Isitt Dr, Auckland Airport.

Ph 215 1220. Open 7 days 10am-late. info@szimpla.co.nz • www.szimpla.co.nz

LICENSED

• OPEN FOR VALENTINE’S DAY LUNCH AND DINNER – 11.30am-2pm, 5pm-late

$

LICENSED

64 Jesmond Road, Karaka.

Ph 09 294 6687. open 7 days, 8.30am-4pm. www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

$$

LICENSED

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29/01/2016 3:40:48 p.m.

Garden delights It is said that flowers feeds the soul and indeed a home with flowers tends to exude that added feeling of beauty and calm.

inspired by gardens and nature with their latest collections (pictured) featuring an abundance of floral imagery.

Importantly, there are a multitude of ways that flowers can be incorporated into the home. In fact, they have been used in textiles for centuries, featuring everything from the regal fleur de lis to the proud Scottish thistle.

Regardless of whether you want to make a statement with bold wall coverings or simply enhance your living spaces with bright and cheerful cushions, drapes or upholstery, expertly woven floral motifs can be used to successfully achieve interior design goals.

Modern European designers from luxury brands, Jane Churchill and Colefax & Fowler, continue to be

For more on these two collections visit Atelier Textiles – atelier.co.nz

Stunning florals from the Jane Churchill and the Colefax & Fowler collections bring colour, light and vibrancy to a room.

Setting the benchmark Cosentino welcomes the public to its Highbrook design centre where the best in engineered stone benchtop surfaces can be viewed – an eclectic range for every taste.

ShowcaSing

n Silestone – the first and

only quartz benchtop with Bacteriostatic Protection, giving it unique features. n Dekton – a sophisticated blend of the raw materials resulting in an Ultra Compact Surface.

nZ owned and operated 38b Highbrook Drive, East Tamaki. Phone 274 9406 Monday-Thursday 8.30am-5pm, Friday 8.30am-3pm www.silestone.co.nz n www.dekton.com 62 | eastlife | february 2016

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www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:40:53 p.m.

Gardenia – love set to bloom Gardeners would surely agree with these words from the Koran that say: ‘bread feeds the body, indeed, but flowers feed the soul’. And while grasses, cacti, flaxes and stones may be popular for properties where homeowners are time poor or where there isn’t a green finger in sight, there is nothing like a garden where colour and fragrance abound.

‘

[Gardenia] is one of the flowers long associated with romance, namely secret love or that budding feeling of walking on cloud nine!

Sending or receiving gardenias can be interpreted as a sign of love not yet voiced and, of course, the white petals stand for innocence, purity, modesty and sincerity.

With hundreds of choices available there may well be a flower for every spot but choosing is no mean feat.

However, one flowering shrub which is blooming in many gardens right now is the beautiful and aromatic gardenia of which there is more than 140 species.

A genus of flowering plants in the coffee family, Rubiaceae, the gardenia is native to tropical and sub tropical regions of Australasia, Oceania, Africa and southern Asia.

Growing from one to 15 metres tall with dark green, glossy, broad leaves, the white or pale yellow flowers are solitary or in small clusters, blooming from mid-spring to mid-summer.

Most species are strongly scented.

They can be grown outdoors (shrubs, small trees, hedging or in containers) and indoors in pots.

It is the national flower of Pakistan and, interestingly, the ‘father’ of psychoanalysis’, neurologist Sigmund Freud said it was his favourite flower.

In France the gardenia was traditionally worn by men as a buttonhole for evening dress; it is a popular

wedding flower in many countries; often features in garlands and, in China and Japan, the blooms are used as a yellow dye for fabrics and food.

In Chinese medicine the gardenia is highly regarded for clearing, calming and cooling properties.

It is also one of the flowers long associated with romance, namely secret love or that budding feeling of walking on cloud nine! Sending or receiving gardenias can be interpreted as a sign of love not yet voiced and, of course, the white petals stand for innocence, purity, modesty and sincerity.

But on a more practical note – gardenias prefer well-drained, acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5.

They thrive in temperatures of around 19-24 degrees Celsius with a low of about 16 degrees at night.

Moderate humidity will encourage a healthy plant but soggy roots will cause flower buds to drop, as will soil that is too dry. Adding peat moss to the soil will help retain moisture.

Gardenias like humidity but misting the leaves indoors can cause problems. Water droplets can lead to fungal growth on leaves.

This is important to keep in mind for outdoor gardenias too. Don’t place under plants that drip onto its leaves and don’t plant too closely together; lack of air flow may also result in fungal issues.

When planting gardenias outdoors dig a hole twice the size of the gardenia’s root ball in well conditioned sol with peat moss and organic matter. Place the plant into the hole with the top of the root ball slightly above the soil’s surface.

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Mound a mix of native soil and peat moss around the plant and tamp down to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly and keep well-watered during the growing season.

To improve the health and longevity of outdoor gardenias remember to:

Prune: Cut back virtually as far you would like in order to shape but prune only when the plant is dormant. Use only clean pruning shears and do not cut off all of the leaves.

Mulch: This will help with moisture retention.

Provide a mulch covering that is two inches thick and do not allow the mulch to touch the trunk of the bush

Feed: Try adding a handful of Epsom salts each month and a little bit of slow release fertiliser. Water with a combination of liquid seaweed, liquid fish food and liquid compost. Brush just a little of this mixture over leaves of indoor plants– they will shine and the mixture will keep bugs away.

However, keep in mind that common causes of insect problems include letting too much moisture to sit on the leaves and not maintaining the proper temperature and moisture levels.

Gardenias are vulnerable to various insects including aphids, mealy bugs, spider mites, thrips, scale and whiteflies Gardenias may need a little extra attention but gardeners who are patient, and remember the basics, will be rewarded by beautiful, fragrant flowers, the creamy/white blooms harmonising perfectly with more colourful garden additions. eastlife | february 2016 |

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French Style Furniture direct from the importer

URBANO INTERIORS

COLLECTIONS:

New showroom now open

DINING FURNITURE | LOUNGE FURNITURE BEDROOM FURNITURE | STUDY FURNITURE INTERIOR ACCESSORIES

12 Ron Driver Place, East Tamaki.

Open Monday-Friday 10am-4pm, Saturday 11am-4pm. Ph 09 273 8985. www.homeabout.co.nz www.trademe.co.nz/stores/homeabout

Auckland 21 Davis Crescent, Newmarket Ph 524 7959

6 Polaris Place, East Tamaki Ph 272 9165

Christchurch 145 Blenheim Road, Riccarton Ph 03 348 8358 00708

www.urbanointeriors.co.nz 01203

specialists in quality homes (09) 372 5487

office@litehouse.nz

Planning to renovate or create a new kitchen?

“Look no further” Huge Savings Wholesale price direct to public • German made hinges (lifetime warranty) • Best price in the market guaranteed

64 | eastlife | february 2016

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02085

www.litehouse.nz 11784

11 Neil Park Drive, East Tamaki. Ph 09 273 7068

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:41:01 p.m.

MY Favourit e Thing Kathy Bigwood is known to many locals for many reasons but, in particular, her name will be forever linked to romance.

Ten years a celebrant, she has officiated at more than 600 weddings, many outdoors, so it stands to reason that rather than a ‘favourite thing’ she has a ‘favourite place’ and it’s very romantic. Here’s what she had to say about the place that pulls at her heartstrings.

my garden Some people can immediately name “a favourite thing” but, as I’ve never really been a collector of ‘things’, I’ve chosen, instead, to name my favourite place and it’s our very own backyard.

A marriage split, a new life and, a new partner all led to me moving (four and a half years ago) from Howick – where I had lived and played for 35 years or so – to Kohimarama, where I had never lived before. It was a totally new area for me.

However, I continued to maintain my strong links with Howick, working as office manager at Howick Little Theatre, marketing team leader at Howick Historical Village and an active member of the Zonta Club of East Auckland. I’m also been involved with Victim Support, Dress for Success and Meals on Wheels.

While the move to a new home was exciting, it did call for some fresh touches to the property.

My partner Tony’s townhouse was something of a bachelor pad and the backyard still featured the original layout with the developer’s planting of several varieties of pittosporum and some rather unlovely and messy macrocarpas. The ground was also covered in that most unfavourite of plants – ladder fern!

Fortunately, Tony was as keen as I was to strip out those sad shrubs and tired plantings. We dug and cut and pulled, leaving only a lonely feijoa and a struggling lime tree. We employed our friend, Terry, to do the hard work of grinding out stumps and building screen fences, new retaining walls and steps.

The result was an absolute transformation into a beautiful, www.eastlife.co.nz

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kathy bigwood warm weather garden – the type of place that would suit a small intimate wedding! I especially love the way it changes every day, not just every season.

Of course, every garden is trial and error. Several plants were tried, and failed in the relentless summer heat. We have a couple of citrus that might make it and I was even brave enough to plant a persimmon last year.

Photo Wayne Martin

By average New Zealand standards, it is a very small garden yet it is big on beauty. Right now, I am enjoying watching the sunflowers grow at a rapid rate while the pink Echinacea daisies are fighting for space with white hydrangeas along with gorgeous white roses and gardenias.

I just wish the monarch butterflies would hurry up and lay their eggs so the swan plants are demolished – they are not such a pretty plant

but produce pretty things! Yay, as I write this, a monarch butterfly has appeared. At last!

Last year [2015], we wanted to extend the use of the area so we employed our favourite builder, James, to replace the old decking and to create a garden room – it is now the nicest place to relax and enjoy a chilled chardonnay on a warm evening! Definitely, my favourite place! eastlife | february 2016 |

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out of europe

Narcissos

All Greek for me!

VALENTINE’S RECLINING: While Epixilon’s range inspires a love of design, it also evokes passions by name alone.

Passion Chair

Carrying the monikers of such infamous romantics as Rudolph Valentino, Cleopatra, Aphrodite (spelt Afrodite) and Narcissus (Narcissos), these chairs, sofas and chaise lounges provide one’s posterior with that loving touch.

From a queen with an ‘asp’ that didn’t quit, and a lusty goddess (We think they mean Aphrodite, not Afro-dite... a 70s’ ‘blackspoitation’ film star, maybe?), to an often nudie Rudi, and a man who fell in love with himself, this Greek company sure has drawn on some interesting sources of inspiration! Products can be ordered direct from Epixilon (epixilon.gr).

Round Bedroom

Valentino

Cleopatra

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www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 4:19:12 p.m.

pe

New design age dawns Sophisticated shades revealing a fascination with deep space and an emphasis on dark, moody hues offset by experimental colour combinations ranging from a new retro movement to a fusion of modern and heritage are among the 2016 colour trends from leading paint company, Dulux.

Infinite Worlds, Bio Fragility, Retro Remix and Future Past are the themes of four expertly curated palettes which are included in the new Dulux ‘Design Age’ predictions.

at Infinite Worlds and Retro Remix which showcase the creative skills of Australian stylists, Bree Leech and Heather Nette King.

For those brave enough to make a bold statement, the Retro Remix palette inspires colour experimentation. Acid brights, such as orange, clash with faded, muddied colours such as reddish browns, olive greens, mustard and ochre to create a fun and playful theme.

Mixing together iconic elements from across the mid to late century,

Here, EastLife looks more closely

Retro Mix

Photos Lisa Cohen

this dashing use of colour to define interiors, reflects on colourful eras and gains inspiration from 60s and 70s design influences – a formula which defies winter gloom.

On the other hand, as ongoing advances in science and technology reveal opportunities to explore the unknown, there is an increasing desire to discover more of the universe. Inspired by this lure of unexplored galaxies, the deep colours featured in the Infinite Worlds palette will be especially prominent next year.

Dominant hues include moody ocean blues such as Dulux Night Life, dark purples such as Dulux Russell and deep blue greens such as Dulux Winter Waves. The dramatic colours which form the majority of this palette, are juxtaposed with flashes of brilliant reds, pinks and coral plus space age metallics. Glowing hues are used as accents to help recreate the eerie effect of deep unchartered worlds. Winter promises plenty of excitement for decorators!

Retro Mix and Infinite Worlds palettes styled by Bree Leech and Heather Nette King for Dulux Colour Trends 2016

M

O Eo O F ff F ic e

Back to School

O

WITH MELUKA

H

rcissos

Infinite Worlds

$1190

$1290

$1011

$1096

$2042

$1735 PLUS MENTION THIS AD FOR A FREE GIFT WITH PURCHASE * * CONDITIONS APPLY • SEE INSTORE FOR DETAILS

SALE ENDS FEB 29 • SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

DESIGNED AND MADE IN NEW ZEALAND

Furniture. Simply.

MELUKA.CO.NZ 0800 MELUKA • STUART@MELUKA.CO.NZ

983 MT EDEN RD THREE KINGS 501 TI RAKAU DR BOTANY 4/683 CAMERON RD TAURANGA 11798

www.eastlife.co.nz

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29/01/2016 3:41:16 p.m.

Gardeners’ heroic efforts on show One of New Zealand’s most wellknown garden tours, the Heroic Garden Festival is set to, once again, showcase some of the best backyards Auckland has to offer.

In its 20th year, the tour features 24 gardens, with many open to the public for the first time. It also includes a special garden fete at Ayrlies in Whitford on February 12.

Designed to raise funds for Mercy Hospice Auckland, the festival was established to comprise gay and lesbian-owned gardens. However, it now includes the beautiful gardens of many other supporters of Mercy Hospice.

For more details, see heroicgardens.org.nz.

Chinese lantern

— stranger to Asia?

Up there on the wrong side of the world, Chinese New Year is a celebration of spring to come. Here in New Zealand though, it heralds the beginning of the end of the warmer months.

That said, just because we’re looking at the world from a different point of view, doesn’t mean we can’t raise a cheer to the New Year as we take a look at a flower that always lights the way.

Similar to hibiscus, ‘Chinese Lanterns’, or abutilons, include more than 100 varieties of perennial herbs, shrubs and small trees.

Despite their common name, abutilons are not actually Chinese at all, with the majority of species native to South America. Rather than being indicative of their origins, the name Chinese lantern is actually representative of the shape and colour of their remarkable flowers.

Also known as Chinese bell flowers, Indian mallows and flowering maples, and with flowers ranging in colour from red, orange and pink, to yellow and white, these plants do take on a multi-cultural and a multicoloured air!

Due to their popularity, many cultivars of Chinese lanterns have been hybridised. Known as Abutilon hybridum, these evergreen shrubs have become favourites worldwide.

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‘

As they bloom yearround, with a principal flush of flowers from early spring until early summer, Abutilon hybridum bring colour and a little light to the garden even during darker days.

Chinese lanterns prefer full sun to partial shade, warm temperatures — above 15 degrees Celsius — mildly acidic soil, and a little water, regularly applied.

Thriving indoors — or out, in warmer areas — these plants are often grown in hanging baskets or as border plants in the garden.

And, as they bloom year-round, with a principal flush of flowers from early spring until early summer, Abutilon hybridum bring colour and a little light to the garden even during darker days.

Because of their fragile beauty, unique shape and vibrant colours Chinese lanterns have become welcomed throughout the world.

Although they may not originate from Asia, it seems, as with Chinese New Year, these flowers are widely accepted, bringing a taste of Asia, with love! www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:41:19 p.m.

Low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance TimberTECH director MARK RALPH provides welcome advice on how to keep exterior cedar looking its best at all times.

One of the pitfalls of owning a low maintenance home – for example, one with cedar cladding – is to think low maintenance equals “no maintenance”. Uh uh!

Sure, cedar’s natural oil defends against those enemies of timber: drying out, warping and cracking.

Cedar also repels insects, mildew, moss and lichen.

But cedar’s not Superman. It needs your support, Lois. And the best support you can give is a regular wash followed by a loving application of rejuvenating Wood-X oil (developed by us and the clever folks at leading New Zealand paint manufacturing company, Resene).

Here’s where cedar itself is clever too. It’s naturally free from pitch or resin, something you often find in other timbers such as pine. Timbers with pitch or resin aren’t great at absorbing nourishing oils. But because cedar is free from both, it can hoover that Wood-X oil deep into its cells, like a turbocharged anteater which hasn’t eaten for a week!

Once that oil has penetrated the heart of your cedar timber, it’ll protect it for up to a year from all that nature can throw at it.

Exactly how often you should refurbish your cedar depends on your own preferences and how much abuse it gets from nature. If it is north facing, it’s probably taken a pounding from the sun’s UV rays all through summer (yes, I know – what summer?). If you live in a bushy glen, it may be more in danger from moss and the like. If you live near the sea, it’ll probably need sun and sea-air tailored care.

After more than 20 years in the business, we’re experts at assessing the state of your cedar and putting together a customised maintenance plan tailored to your home’s circumstances and your preferences.

(And most cedar home owners we know are very house proud.)

Here’s another tip for keeping your cedar house looking great. Once a year, between recoats, give it a good clean with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Dirt is a common cause of discoloration on all timber cladding – a simple clean can work wonders!

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29/01/2016 3:41:21 p.m.

THE

AGENTS

Why hire

A PROPERTY MANAGER? JANE WILSHER, from Elite Property Management, talks about the benefits of professional property management.

Rachael meyeR

sumwai wONG

LICENSED SALESPERSON

RESIDENTIAL SALES

P: 09 538 1230 m: 021 110 3956 e: rachael.meyer@raywhite.com If you are looking for a real estate salesperson who provides great service, whilst providing second to none communication, please give me a call.

“Thanks for thinking outside the box and making us consider options we may not have on our own. I trusted you throughout the process and always thought you had our best interests at heart.”

Theodora – Bucklands Beach

P: 09 534 5139 m: 022 4786 924 E: s.wong3@barfoot.co.nz Sumwai has bought, sold and renovated homes over the 20 years she has lived in our area after moving from Hong Kong and now shares her firsthand knowledge, experience and passion for real estate.

Exceptional communication skills and a personalised approach set Sumwai apart.

Speaking English, Cantonese and Mandarin fluently, she relates easily to people from different cultures and backgrounds.

Mountfort Estate Agents Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

12 Uxbridge Rd, Howick. www.raywhite.co.nz

50 Picton St, Howick www.barfoot.co.nz

Rental property is a profitable investment for a myriad of people in New Zealand but to make the most of such an investment it is essential to manage things effectively and there’s a lot more to property management than most people think.

Are you a “DIY” landlord?? Currently in New Zealand between 70 and 75% of all rental properties are managed by the owners. But are they?

Often people’s definition of managing their properties is that they check that the rent is in the bank each week.

Some don’t even manage that!

People often avoid visiting their investments for fear of what they might find. They don’t enjoy the possibility of conflict and not knowing their legal obligations they shy away from everyday situations.

It’s vital that there is good communication between the landlord and tenant, that all the correct paperwork is in place and that both parties know the rules or you could end up at the tribunal.

So, why hire a property manager?

Here are just a few of the reasons:

Special Agents 003 IAN BOSWELL, MARK VAN ETTEN & NICOLETTE HALE RESIDENTIAL SALES, BEACHLANDS

Ian 027 285 9314, i.boswell@barfoot.co.nz Mark 027 523 2245, mark.vanetten@barfoot.co.nz Nicolette 027 702 9157, n.hale@barfoot.co.nz www.specialagents003.co.nz This vibrant team puts the fun back into real estate while also achieving outstanding sales results. Now is your time to take advantage of the fantastic service they provide!

42 Wakelin Rd, Beachlands www.barfoot.co.nz

70 | eastlife | february 2016

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greg roy AREINZ Principal/Owner

P: 09 538 0151 M: Greg 0274 966 966 Your Independent Local Specialists – Leigh & Greg Roy With a combined 40 years’ experience selling real estate in the area, you can rest assured you’re in good hands.

Providing good old fashioned service with outstanding results and never losing sight of who it is that we are working for is the absolute foundation of our business.

Call us if you simply want advice, or are looking to buy or sell your home.

• Maintaining your capital asset through regular inspections and initiating necessary maintenance using tried and tested tradesmen • Giving time back to landlords and relieving the stress of them having to personally oversee their rentals; creating a buffer between the owner

and the tenants.

• Keeping things legal to avoid landlord fines • Regular assessment of rent to ensure the best return is being achieved • Minimising down time between tenants through better advertising mediums • Advertising your property and carrying out viewings • Better tenant selection including full reference checking • Compilation of Tenancy Agreements • Property condition reports • Bond collection, lodgement and eventual sign off • Rent collection and preparation of monthly statements • Recovery of rent arrears • Tenancy Tribunal hearings • Payments of accounts eg land rates, water rates etc • Satisfying your insurance policy requirements with written inspection reports Elite Property Management is a local, independent company specialising in providing a quality Property Management service without the distraction of property sales.

The business is owned and operated

by Jane Wilsher. Along with her team, Jane provides a comprehensive and professional service to all landlords from first timers to long standing investors.

If you would like some advice or more information about our service contact Elite Property Management.

Are you a landlord short on time?

Heading overseas? Or just over dealing with tenants?

We are your local specialist property managers based in Howick. Dedicated to finding quality tenants, maintaining your properties and getting you the best return on your investment.

128 Picton Street, Howick.

Phone 09 535 0911 www.eliteproperty.co.nz Email: jane@eliteproperty.co.nz or info@eliteproperty.co.nz

E512179-v3

111 Picton St, Howick. www.tfproperty.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:41:25 p.m.

Full steam ahead Total Focus Principal, Greg Roy areinz, gives an update on the local real estate market happenings.

Welcome to EastLife’s first 2016 real estate report. I hope you have all had some time out and took advantage of the better days between the rain and wind.

I am always loath to predict how a year will go but early indications are that we will have another year of competition for well priced and well presented properties.

The market has started the year with relatively low levels of homes available. As I write this, real estate. co.nz has 236 properties listed for sale in the Eastern Beaches area.

Looking at how 2015 rounded out, and specifically the numbers for the Eastern Beaches area, we saw quite a dramatic drop in the median price for November and again in December.

Compared to, say, three months ago there were 370, and I remember not long before Christmas I noted a week in which there was more than 400 listings.

Just to refresh on the numbers the area hit a new record high back in August 2015 of $977,500, dropping back slightly in September to $960,000, back up to $975,000 in October and descending down to $930,000 in November and finished the year off at $903,500 in December.

We are receiving a good amount of enquiry for this time of the year and sales people who worked through the Christmas period were kept very busy.

the last two months to 38 days in November and 34 in December – we had been running at an average of 32 days over the year.

Auckland overall had a similar picture. Quotable Value summed up 2015 for Auckland with data showing that home values rose by an average 22.5% ($171,406) over the year, from $761,858 to $933,264. The rise was 4.1% over the past three months but only 0.2% over the final month of the year. Values are now 70.8% higher than the previous peak of 2007.

The days to sell also increased in

Another trend for 2015 was the move for owners and investors to look outside of the Auckland region for more affordable homes or better rental yields with the huge increases in Auckland home values, and the new restrictions that came into play over the year.

All that said, the market is the market and Auckland still has a housing shortage and a growing population so the last couple of months may well just be a small blip on the upward curve.

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Call me... anytime!

Win! JOB U

If anyone can outline exactly how to find the path to a successful career in a tough job market in just one book, Nicholas Wyman can!

With his latest, award-winning book, Job U this Australian workforce skills’ expert shows that rewarding jobs are available by looking outside the traditional classroom as some of the best don’t require university degrees.

Exploring professional certifications, associate degrees, apprenticeships, and occupational learning, Nicholas shows where technical, vocational and soft skills that companies actually need can be obtained.

EastLife has THREE copies of this book to give away. To be in to win, see the competitions’ page at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close February 29, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

• Nicholas Wyman: Job U – Find your path to a successful career in a tough job market | RRP $29.99 | Allen & Unwin

Waiting for the telephone to ring... ‘Did Mr Prospect get my message? Is he really busy in a meeting or simply avoiding my call?’ There’s so much uncertainty surrounding telephone calls, and never-changing, recorded voicemail messages (unlike sad songs) don’t seem to say so much.

Fortunately, thanks to new app BusyRelax, we can ensure callers are advised – through preprogrammed text messages – of such details as where we are and when we’ll be available next.

Messages can be quickly and easily set up and switched on or off at any time.

So, next time we’re out on the road, in a meeting, a movie or even simply ‘indisposed’, there’s no need for our callers to be left hanging on the line.

BusyRelax is available now for Android phones – including a premium, automatic version synced with Google Calendar – from the Google Play store.

SPEAK EASY IN PUBLIC Some people would rather die than face the prospect of speaking in public. So, statistically, many of those giving a eulogy would rather be in the casket than standing next to it!

Fortunately, media trainer, communications consultant, performer, and author, Maggie Eyre, has solutions a-plenty to help us overcome this all-toocommon fear.

In Speak Easy, Maggie leads readers through the complete process, from initial concept to final delivery.

Covering such aspects as body language, voice, health, warming up, managing an audience, media skills, grooming and learning lines, this book is ideal for those who would usually avoid public speaking, or simply those looking to sharpen their act.

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• Maggie Eyre: Speak Easy – the essential guide to speaking in public | RRP $30 | Exisle Publishing

HOWICK, BOTANY, PAKURANGA AND SURROUNDS

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Contact us Ph 271 8020 • info@eastlife.co.nz • www.eastlife.co.nz 72 | eastlife | february 2016

eastlife february 2016.indd 72

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:41:34 p.m.

Right ‘Hon’ Key While our public masters (ah, we mean servants, of course!) have no doubt been enjoying the summer recess, we caught up on some missed ministrations from our favourite Prime Minister, as seen through the eyes of the EastLife team.

Drug users pay, Key says

ACT Leader, David Seymour, was offered the positions of Minister for Regulatory Reform and Associate Minister of Education, however...

With more than $5m recently allocated to anti-drug initiatives, it seems prevention and cure are high on Key’s agenda.

“He declined my offer as he wants to see through his member’s bill on End of Life Choice. He is also focused on continuing to re-build the ACT party and working hard as the new MP for Epsom,” said Key.

However, this new funding will not come from the taxpayers’ pockets but from assets seized from criminals instead, the PM says.

“As a result of the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act we are able to seize the proceeds of crime and use it against those responsible for it. [This] funding will boost efforts to stop drugs at the border and clamp down on production and distribution, as well as broader drug and alcohol treatment and enforcement initiatives.”

Bringing the total invested in anti-drug programmes under the Act to $17.2m since 2013, the extra funding will be assigned to a range of programmes, primarily to assist police and customs, as well as further drug treatment and education.

“These efforts are working, making our communities safer and I have no doubt that, supported by the kinds of new initiatives we are backing today, progress will continue.”

“I respect his decision and look forward to continuing to work closely with him in his current roles.”

Bravo, bravo – Key’s a brave, brave man!

‘

As a result of the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act we are able to seize the proceeds of crime and use it against those responsible for it. [This] funding will boost efforts to stop drugs at the border and clamp down on production and distribution, as well as broader drug and alcohol treatment and enforcement initiatives.”

The House always wins From Groser moves to Collins back in Cabinet (and despite no new role for an ACT-or) , the Nat’s will be hoping the PM’s reshuffle late last year will see more than just one ace surface in the deck.

“I am pleased to welcome [her] back to Cabinet. Judith has been a competent Minister, and will quickly be able to pick up the Police and Corrections portfolios that she has successfully held before,” said Key.

Denied the title ‘Honourable’ by the Honourable John in 2014 (due to investigations into alleged involvement in a smear campaign against a former Serious Fraud Office chief executive) the nowcleared Judith Collins has regained her Police and Corrections portfolios.

And while Dr (Nick) Smith stays at home with housing, it’s Mr Tim Groser who’s going to Washington, trading in his portfolios.

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eastlife february 2016.indd 73

“I want to congratulate Tim on his appointment as Ambassador to Washington. His experience in the trade portfolio, including

While sticks and stones (let alone harpoons) sure can hurt, it was a scathing salvo of words which served as John Key’s weapon of choice recently.

the successful conclusion of the TPP [Trans Pacific Partnership] negotiations, makes him an ideal person to represent our country’s interests in Washington,” Mr Key said.

“New Zealand’s relationship with the United States is one of our most crucial. As the world’s largest economy and New Zealand’s fourthlargest trading partner, the United States is a key destination for our exporters. New Zealand and the United States also cooperate on a range of international peace and security issues.”

Mr Key also thanked outgoing Ambassador Mike Moore for his contribution in strengthening New Zealand’s relationship with the United States.

West Coast MP, Maureen Pugh, replaces Mr Groser in the House, with Todd McClay taking on his Trade portfolio and Paula Bennett now covering Climate Change Issues.

In response to Japan’s plans to resume whaling in the Southern Ocean, Key was quick to rise to the occasion.

“New Zealand and other concerned countries sent a strong message to the Japanese Government, delivering a formal message in Tokyo expressing their opposition,” he said.

“We consider that there is no scientific basis for the slaughter of whales and strongly urge the Government of Japan not to allow it to go ahead.

“New Zealand has repeatedly expressed its opposition... we will continue to work to see this outdated practice brought to an end.”

In total, 33 nations – including the USA, Australia, Mexico, South Africa and EU members, expressed concern over these plans from the land of the rising sun, however, this did not stop the whaling fleet departing in December. eastlife | february 2016 |

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29/01/2016 3:41:37 p.m.

No privacy We still live in boxes part 1 Wynyard Wood consultant, RICHARD OSBORNE, whose specialties include commercial law and intellectual property law, writes on issues concerning the business community

Nothing’s private any more. The increased digitalisation of our world and the use of social media has broken down many boundaries between what’s behind the lace curtain and what’s on the front lawn. Importantly, there are some legislative protections for personal information which is usually different from information about an entity such as a company.

The main area of protection for personal information is under the Privacy Act 1993. The rights given by the Act are not limited by age or status. A minor has privacy rights independent of the parent. Those rights often overlap with the health area where there are various rights to access, disclose and refuse to disclose information under codes and Acts such as the Health Act 1956 and the Education Act 1989 and other protective legislation.

The Privacy Act 1993 is administered by the Privacy Commission. It produces very valuable guides and codes of privacy, see www. privacy.org.nz, which include those for national emergencies, health information, credit reporting and telecommunications as well as far-sighted assessments of future trends, such as digital identities.

‘

The increased digitalisation of our world and the use of social media has broken down many boundaries between what’s behind the lace curtain and what’s on the front lawn.

Personal information is critical to many businesses by way of employee and customer data.

Those running businesses should be very well aware of their obligations in respect of personal information.

Non-personal information is just as important. But its status is uncertain – a recent Supreme Court decided that information could be property for the purposes of the Crimes Act 1961.

Overall, there is no specific legislative protection for business information that is not also personal information. Its use and accessing is left to concepts of equity and good faith, contract and – as a practical protection – encryption.

Bill Potter – The Business Maverick. Bill is an international Keynote Speaker, MC and Coach, who has presented in 57 countries. www.speakers.co.nz/ our-speakers/all-speakers/bill-potter www.btob.co.nz/the-business-maverick It is 2016, team. Welcome to it. It is only a number in a sequence we folks created many moons ago. Now. Pause for a mo, and decide what your personal 2016 will mean for you.

After some thought, describe your 2016 journey, in one word. Mine is... ‘renewal’. Yes, you may borrow it.

It isn’t easy being a Maverick, a Business Maverick or even, a Maverick Speaker. It is like that song, ‘Everybody Wants to go to Heaven, but Nobody Wants to Die’, brilliantly sung by American blues singer Albert King (https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=0G-SqMDTbks). Everybody talks about innovation, but nobody wants to change, baby!

That is because, we are afraid if there is ‘change’, we may lose our special place in the space that exists now.

So much for self-confidence! Pete Seeger made Malvina Reynolds’ song, ‘Little Boxes’ famous in 1963, (https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=XUwUp-D_VV0). This explains why business in Auckland, turns off its brain in mid-December, and barely resets it until... after Waitangi Day!

This is a fascinating strategy. Perform 10.5 months out of 12 and expect good results, especially since most other cities of the world resumed business on January 02!

Yes, we still live in ‘little boxes, made of ticky tacky’ (you did break from your frenzied tweeting to check the song, right? Hello?). So, are you hoping for things ‘different’ this year?

I so wish I could give you good news about that...

But I can’t. Seriously. The ‘Sheople’ will wend their usual way, week after week, year after year, to a destination, um... ending at their final ‘box’. Anyway, readers of ‘Eastlife’ are not like this. We dare to be different!

We can change the world! Aren’t you glad you’re a reader?

I coach... PATH2© : The All-Rounder Course for 3Percenters, on Skype. It is a personal power course for serious Go-getters who want to own their tomorrow, today. PATH2© contains world- unique content. Are you a 3Percenter? We’ll see. Cheers.

– duitdammit@xtra.co.nz

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29/01/2016 3:41:40 p.m.

About Russia, in gloves Late last year, EastLife spoke with a remarkable teenage boxer who took on the world at the junior world boxing champs in Saint Petersburg. This month, we share excerpts from RAKAI KIRKWOOD JNR’s report about his experiences in Russia. He writes:

I was exposed to a people that had faced many hardships and strife, and I began to realise the longer I stayed in Russia how fortunate we are to live in a country as great as New Zealand.

The tournament, held in St Petersburg, attracted more than 500 boxers from 52 countries between the ages of 14 and 16. Boxers competed in 13 weight categories in their quest for world dominance, however only a handful could claim that right.

I fought in the 60kg or lightweight division which was the most contested division in the competition with 35 boxers entered.

Unfortunately, I lost my first fight by a narrow split decision to Adam

Trncak of Czech Republic in what my coach thought was a tough decision.

The Cuban judge awarded me two rounds, whereas the other two judges only gave me one round, thus ending my world championship dreams.

However, it did not end my learning curve. I gained much experience from skill development and sparring sessions with world-ranked coaches and boxers from such countries as England, the Philippines, Korea, Japan and Australia.

From a boxing perspective, I learnt many things during the tournament.

The most prominent being the attitude that boxers from Russia and less-developed countries, such as Cuba, adopt. Boxing isn’t simply a sport; it is a chance at a better life for them.

It is their only chance to seize opportunity and literally fight against their struggles; these boxers are willing to die in the ring. They are desperate to succeed.

They are desperate to overcome.

They carry the fighters’ attitude

Photo Wayne Martin

“Mother Russia”, as it is called, is a fully enclosed world that adheres to its own rules and generally – from a New Zealand perspective – it is a mad house! The people’s attitude, behaviour and even manners were totally alien to me and I found it interesting to delve beneath the exterior indifference most Russians wear to gain understanding of the mindset of the Russian people.

rakai kirkwood throughout everything they do, and, if I too would like to taste world championship success, then I need to emulate that mindset and carry that discipline wherever I go.

The skills and the physical attributes are important, but nothing makes a world champion better then believing he is a world champion.

I truly appreciate the generosity and faith [offered by my supporters] and I hope to reward you all one day by fulfilling my goal to become a Commonwealth, Olympic and world champion.

To read our profile feature on this rising star, see pages 16-17 of EastLife December 2015.

parting shot

Knocking their Block(buster) off In January 2003, I was living on the other side of the planet, so how could I rent a video tape (yes, they still had them back then), from Blockbuster (still had those too!) in Highland Park (now out of business), much less return it late.

Unless I sleepwalked my way to Manchester Airport and stowed away on a plane, this would have been impossible. And yet, approximately 13 years on, I receive a ‘reminder letter’ with thinly-veiled threats of ‘further action’ from an Australian-based debt collection agency demanding I pay the grand sum of... $10.

Attempts at calling fell on deaf ears. As the company in question is Australian-based and has no more www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife february 2016.indd 75

connection to New Zealand other than a PO Box and a registered address with an accountant, I could do nothing more than leave voicemail through an 0800 number with a recorded voice which sounded remarkably like Pauline Hanson.

So, beyond a long and irate email (which began: ‘Okay, coppers, after 13 years on the run, you’ve got me!’, what more could I do? And, in any case, what would be the point in getting ‘lawyered-up’ to clear my name over such a paltry sum?

While weighing up my options (and shortly before giving up and paying up anyway), I received a short, sharp reply:

“I refer to your email for which we thank you. Our client referred the matter for a reminder letter [note that I had never received any other letters about this]. Our client has since

However, please forgive a humble scribbler for not feeling secure that this ridiculous matter will never again rear its head.

I replied asking for confirmation in writing by post and did receive a rather brusque letter a week or so later. So, while I seem to be off the hook, I am left wondering just how many people have paid up small amounts rather than deal with the hassle of proving they are not liable.

withdrawn the file and closed the file.

Our client apologises for the error.”

It’s always nice to receive apologies even when their source remains anonymous (albeit obvious!).

There could be quite the little earner in this for less scrupulous businesses.

Of course, they’d risk being accused of extortion, but only if we could prove it and if it was worth our time to do so.

– Jon Rawlinson eastlife | february 2016 |

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29/01/2016 3:41:50 p.m.

Super Rugby’s Sunwolves – down in flames?

Following the Brave Blossoms stellar Rugby World Cup run late last year and the inclusion of a Japanese-based franchise in Super Rugby, it appears eastern promises could materialise. However, can the flower of Japanese rugby talent really foot it with the best week-in, week-out? JON RAWLINSON discussed their chances with former rugby international, James Arlidge.

To think a new team from Asia playing in a South African conference during the Northern Hemisphere off-season could claim the Super Rugby crown may seem as fanciful as the mythical beast from which the new franchise draws its name. Yet, ex-Pakuranga United and Japan back, James Arlidge, believes should the Sunwolves fail, it won’t be due to alack of dedication.

“The first year will be tough, but they won’t be short of commitment. They will be fit, fast and well organised,” he says. “However, they may struggle with the week-in-week-out intensity, so it will be interesting whether they have enough depth to get through,” he says.

“The timing is right [for their inclusion] in helping continue the momentum the sport has experienced in Japan since the RWC; hopefully this won’t be stalled if the team can’t perform to a suitable standard.”

James – who also represented numerous unions in New Zealand (including the Blues), Japan, and the UK, as well as the New Zealand Barbarians, and New Zealand Maori – believes Japanese fans could become impatient should success not be served early.

“Rugby in Japan almost died after the All Blacks beat them [145-17] at the 1995 Rugby World Cup (RWC), particularly from a fan perspective.

The Japanese (like most of us) like to support teams that do well, and if the Sunwolves don’t, fans recently converted after [the last] RWC will go back to following baseball and soccer.

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Longer seasons and more travel than many Sunwolves players will be used to, ‘home’ games in Singapore and Japan and away in South Africa and Australia, mean they won’t, however, travel to New Zealand until 2017.

“Teams understand how to prepare for travel these days, but it still requires good recovery practices and adjustment to time zones. This puts pressure on players’ bodies and the amount of time they have to prepare for each game. It all comes down to [managing] recovery so that they can be at their best whenever they run on to the field.”

While the Sunwolves draw on some foreign talent (including ex-All Black head coach, Mark Hammett), key Japanese internationals, such as Kiwi-born captain, Michael Leitch, and star fullback, Ayumu Goromaru, have opted for contracts with longerestablished franchises. Employment with a franchise liable to experience a longer, more winding road schedule could appear less attractive.

“The Sunwolves would definitely be better with such players [as Leitch and Goromaru], says James. “The squad features some foreign players, but it will be tough on their families, once again, because of the travel factor.”

Other expansion teams – South Africa’s Southern Kings (which did experience Super Rugby in 2013) and the Argentina-based Jaguars – also join the competition this year.

While these teams will face similar challenges, because many players will have prior experience of longer (and arguably tougher) competitions

in South Africa and Europe, it is likely they will be better prepared for Super Rugby’s arduous schedule.

Although Super Rugby’s governing body, SANZAR, will be betting the new, expanded tournament will open new markets and re-ignite passions of punters; James appears less convinced.

“The introduction of new teams and territories was always going to make the competition more complex to follow. [SANZAR has] attempted to keep it as simple as possible, but it will take time before everyone is comfortable with who’s playing who, who’s in line for the play-offs and why,” he says.

“There is a lot of rugby on our screens, [and] concern remains that those ‘take-it-or-leave-it’ fans are not turning in like they used to.”

• To read more about James’ rugby career, see EastLife’s November 2013 issue at eastlife.co.nz, and see sanzarrugby.com for competition schedules.

‘

Rebels, Rebels put to the test To kick off the 2016 Super Rugby season, the Blues will play a free preseason fixture against the Melbourne Rebels at Pakuranga United Rugby Club on February 4. See theblues.co.nz for more information.

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:41:51 p.m.

‘NOTTS’ APPLICABLE: Arlidge sports a jersey gifted by former Nottingham teammate and Eagles’ international, Tim Usasz.

Photo Wayne Martin

Home of the Brave Even one-eyed supporters must admit that Japan’s international rugby team, the Brave Blossoms, appear set to flourish, considering their 2015 Rugby World Cup performance which included a 34-32 ‘thrashing’ of the Springboks.

With Japan set to host the 2019 event, ex-Brave Blossoms’ first-five, James Arlidge, is hopeful (yet cautiously optimistic) that his former team can improve on a dismal overall record of just four wins from 28 World Cup appearances.

“Unfortunately, I don’t think Japan will have the same surprise factor which helped them beat South Africa come the next World Cup. There are still concerns about the [quality] of players coming out of Japanese schools and it will be that quality that will ultimately help them make the next step. However, the next few years will be crucial, and rugby is a funny old game!”

As Japan continues to seek foreign talent, Highlander’s Super Rugby 2015-winning coach and ex-All Black, Jamie Joseph, has been rumoured to succeed Australian ‘super coach’ Eddie Jones who moves on to the top job with England.

If Joseph comes to call Tokyo home, James believes he will have very big boots to fill.

“There will huge expectation for the team to kick on from 2015 and a lot of external pressure on him,” says James, “Having said that, Jamie has proved with the Highlanders that he can create great environments and quality teams, even without very many superstars on the roster, so I am confident of improvement to come.” www.eastlife.co.nz

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Roofless fun EastLife motoring corresdondent ALISTAIR DAVIDSON entered dangerous ground when he swapped his macho machine for a sassy little number which definitely made him look her over twice.

Mazda’s all-new MX-5 reminded me why I enjoy driving. Yet, weirdly, this small 1.5-litre sports car is the total opposite of what I’m into.

You see, I’m a dirty old hot rodder.

The current project is a 1928 Model A roadster pick-up with a carburetted 6.4-litre V8, transverse leaf springs front and rear, on crossply tyres.

A 1947 Mercury coupe with its original flathead V8 and three-speed column change gearbox shares shed space with my daily driver, a late model Mustang that’s been lowered and retuned.

better equipped and more high-tech than the third generation version it replaces, it feels more like the original ‘jellybean’ MX-5 that my wife Sharron and I road tested back in ’89.

Having said that, the build quality and tactile quality of the interior surfaces and controls are far superior to the one we drove 27 years ago. Much better than you’d expect in a car that costs just a whisker under $41,000.

This is a pure sports car. One that’s front-engined, rear-wheel drive, an engine that’s set back behind the front axle line, and an absolutely brilliant six-speed manual gearbox.

So here ya go: at the risk of ending up in Hot Rod Hell where I’ll spend eternity in a pink self-driving hybrid, I’m putting up my hand and saying ‘the MX-5 really is something special’.

It only has a normally aspirated 1.5-litre engine that puts out 96kW at 7000rpm and 150Nm at 4800rpm, but that actually works in its favour.

Bucking the current trend, MX-5 is noticeably smaller than the outgoing model, and the spec sheet told me it’s also around 100kg lighter.

You have to keep the engine in its sweet spot (around 5000rpm) to enjoy this roadster at its best, which is all part of the fun.

The car seems to have gone a full circle. Rather than being faster,

As this is a light car (around 1000kg) it doesn’t need great dollops of

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power and torque to be thoroughly entertaining.

Constant gear changes are both a necessity and a joy. The only time the car felt lacking in the grunt department was overtaking up a passing lane; sixth gear, down to fifth, down to fourth.

What makes this car so enjoyable is that everything works in harmony.

The engine’s output and willingness to rev, the gearshift and clutch, the superb chassis, and the feeling that your botty is just millimetres off the road provide so much sensory overload. Dropping the roof down adds even more appeal and we certainly had the weather for it.

This is a totally involving car that I wanted to drive just for the sake of it.

‘

This is a pure sports car. One that’s frontengined, rear-wheel drive, an engine that’s set back behind the front axle line, and an absolutely brilliant sixspeed manual gearbox.

New MX-5 made me happy; considering the test drive fell bang in the middle of pre-Christmas mentalness, and the engine’s missing four cylinders, that’s quite an achievement. www.eastlife.co.nz

29/01/2016 3:42:01 p.m.

Photos Alistair Davidson

www.eastlife.co.nz

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EastLife is available FREE from selected advertisers and the following locations: Botany Botany town Centre – Information Desk, conservatory – Food Court, carpark entrance – Outside Flight Centre – Botany Library, Level 1, Sunset Tce – Times Newspapers, Level 1, The Lane – Jag Kitchens, inside Danske Mobler – Pak’n Save Supermarket

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EastLife is published on the first week of each month excluding January. Copies will go quickly so be quick to collect yours from any of the following outlets. An electronic version is also available at www.eastlife. co.nz.

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| february 2016 | 83 59A ALLENS ROAD, EAST TAMAKI, | T: 09eastlife 274 7030 11853

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