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WATCH THE BIRDIE CHEEP TO KEEP: ahead of Pukekohe Franklin Camera Club’s Creative Focus exhibition, we showcase more award-winning snaps. Photo Lisa Kearns
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EDITOR
ONE SIZE FITS?
From the law to education, health, business and politics, our society’s organisations and institutions either appeal to or aim to represent Joe (or Jenny) Average. But these ‘ordinary people’ don’t exist. That is to say, people who are average are anything but ordinary overall. One-size-fits-all solutions are so commonly employed, that they’re downright average. Businesses frequently attempt to find their average customer, politicians seek their average voter, education sees the average student as the benchmark for grading and the list goes on. The US military gave it a go too. As fighter planes became increasingly sophisticated, requiring a snugger fit for pilots in their cockpits, a USAF (air force) researcher set about trying to find averages, across a range of phys-
ical measurements including height and weight. This would increase the number of (GI) Joe averages who could fit. It’s sound logic, in a way, but also dead wrong. Not one of the thousands of pilots measured would fit perfectly. Some were too big, others had arms that were a bit too long and some had a little too much ‘junk in the trunk,’ for example. Similar examples are seen in classrooms when bell curves are used to plot test results. For simplicity’s sake, if the average grade is 50 per cent from 100 questions, few will achieve low grades, a few will score at the top and most will measure somewhere in the middle. However, very few (if any) will finish with a score dead on 50, proving that average is not exactly common – it’s rare. In an election year, this statistical melon-twister
becomes imperative – if politicians attempt to appease the average voter with promises, they are in danger of aiming to produce a utopia perfect for a few and therefore a dystopia for everyone else. But it’s not an unsolvable problem. All we need do is find a best-fit candidate for each of us, one who best represents our individual priorities and views. Better yet, we need representatives who understand why average suits (almost) no one. As we’ve seen time and time again in politics, the perfect is so often the enemy of the good. Well, next to incompetence, at least. ‘The first bowl of porridge was too hot, the second bowl of porridge was too cold, but the third bowl of porridge was’… too lumpy? Jon Rawlinson
Ph 09 271 8000 NEWS ROOM Editor Jon Rawlinson Ph 021 02469998 editor@franklintimes.co.nz ADVERTISING 09 271 8000 advertising@times.co.nz 210 King Street, Pukekohe www.facebook.com/ franklintimesnz
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Published twice a month Published by Times Media Group, Level 1, 121 Vincent Street, Howick PO Box 38 753, Howick, Auckland 2014, New Zealand. Times Media is a member of the NZ Media Council, and NZ Community Newspapers Association.
A sign saga Locals who have driven down Station Road, Pukekohe, recently may have noticed the eye-catching road signs reading: ‘Please slow down, my dad works here.’ The message is clearly popular with similar signs seen on roadsides both in New Zealand and overseas.
But what is the story behind these wholesome reminders? Where did the idea originate and do messages like this save more lives than traditional signs? If anyone has a tip-off or may know where this idea originated, please email us at: editor@franklintimes.co.nz.
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4 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
‘Justice failed,’ police say Two former police officers have been found not guilty of charges relating to a miscarriage of justice in the murder of Arthur Easton in his Papakura home. However, questions as to who killed Easton more than 40 years ago still remain unanswered. Alan Hall was convicted of the murder but, in 2022, the Supreme Court found a substantial miscarriage of justice occurred. He was subsequently granted $5 million compensation and apologies from the government and police after spending more than 18 years in prison. Charged with attempting to pervert the course of justice, the officers, whose names are suppressed, were acquitted at the Auckland High Court last week. Assistant Commissioner (Investigations) Corrie Parnell first acknowledged that the Easton and Hall families
have being seeking justice for decades, before commenting on the latest development. “Police acknowledge the verdict delivered against two former officers involved in the miscarriage of justice for Alan Hall. [They] have been found not guilty… This decision brings an end to criminal proceedings and police stand by our decision to put this case before the courts.” Parnell also confirmed the justice system and police had failed both Hall and Easton. “It is our view after a thorough investigation decades later that there was an endto-end justice system failure, but we also recognised that individuals responsible for key steps in the case played a critical role and that needed to be answered in the courts. Police accept that we had a part to play in this failure occurring,” he says. “The public places great
Arthur Easton.
Photo supplied, NZ Police
faith and trust in police and the wider justice sector to act on their behalf and ensure that criminal procedures are carried out fairly.” Although the latest verdict brings one chapter to an end, justice is yet to be served. “While legislation, systems and processes in the justice sector have advanced in the decades since this case was first prosecuted, we acknowledge the Hall family have been left waiting for answers for a long
time,” Parnell continues. “We must also acknowledge the Easton family, still seeking answers as to who murdered Arthur Easton.” At 8pm on October 13, 1985, Easton (52) and his two teenage sons confronted an intruder, who was armed with a bayonet, in their home on Grove Road. A violent altercation resulted leading to Easton’s death. Investigations have continued since Hall was cleared in 2022. In 2024, the offer of a $100,000 reward led police to Australia. This proved “beneficial,” police said at the time. The reward offer expired in January last year. Since last week’s verdict was handed down, police are waiting for the release of an Independent Police Conduct Authority report. “We will be in a position to comment further at that time,” Parnell adds.
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www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 5
Pipe work clogs roads By HELENA O’NEILL
D
isruptions around Pukekohe will continue as Watercare runs into challenges with its installation of a new four-kilometre pipeline. Sections of the pipeline are being installed near the Pukekohe Train Station – and are part of a $98.2 million programme that also includes a larger wastewater pump station on Isabella Drive, Pukekohe North. Station Road is a key access point and on-road parking site for commuters and the nearby industrial area. Traffic is particularly bad during school drop-off and pick-up, with vehicles backed up along East Street to the Golding Street/Pukekohe East Road/Belgium Street roundabout. In Buckland, the Logan Road/George Street intersec-
Garrards on Station Road is still open for business. tion also has higher traffic volumes, particularly trucks, with an adjacent level railway crossing. Di Cole runs racing supplies store, Garrards inside the Franklin Park Harness track on Station Road and says the ongoing road closure is crippling the business. “Due to signage at the Yates Road end saying, ‘road closed’ and ‘residents only’ we are getting zero-foot traf-
Photo supplied
fic and even account holders are notifying us after the fact that they cannot access us. We have tried asking for the signs to be moved further up the road while works are still at the Station Road end, but this appears to have fallen on deaf ears.” Cole says sales are down to about a third due to the road closure. Watercare confirmed that the work outside Pukekohe
Train Station is now complete, with the car parking outside the station reinstated. Works further up Station Road towards Subway Road remain on track for completion by the end of September. The original end-of-July timeframe was delayed due to unforeseen ground conditions, including peat soils, high groundwater levels and the need for additional geotechnical assessments, Watercare says. From August 24, Franklin Road will be closed to northbound traffic between Franklin Leisure Centre and Reynolds Road. The southbound lane from Cape Hill Road roundabout up to Stadium Drive will remain open with diversions in place. During the closure, street parking will be limited. Watercare expects to finish the Franklin Road work in November.
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6 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
CRL signals local gains By JON RAWLINSON
L
ate trains can be a pain, but early arrivals aren’t ideal either. As our last print edition hit the streets, an advertising error let the cat out of the bag regarding launch date for the City Rail Link (CRL). Earlier than expected, a billboard confirmed that the CRL will launch on September 13. However, it hasn’t caused any problems, Auckland mayor Wayne Brown and Transport Minister Chris Bishop said. Auckland council’s Transport and Infrastructure Delivery Committee chair, Andy Baker agrees. “There was a small slip-up, human error somewhere, [but] nothing of concern,” he told the Times. The CRL is focused on the central city, but the benefits will roll down the line to Franklin also, the Franklin
Ward Councillor expects. “As it beds in, we will see more frequent and, hopefully, later train services, improvements to the bus services that connect to the train stations that service Franklin, greater access to parts of the city that have been difficult to reach [and] shorter trip times to the city,” he says. “Also, [there will be] better travel times on the roads for those who need to use vehicles. The CRL is also the reason behind the removal
of level crossings starting in south Auckland which will improve traffic flow and, more importantly, safety for people crossing train tracks.” Two of the three new Franklin stations entered service on August 2. Early reports suggest they have been a hit with commuters. “In just the first few days of the Drury and Paerata stations opening there were about 350 people using them every day but without any notable drop off in patronage
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at Pukekohe and Papakura, which suggests there are a lot of new users taking advantage of the new stations.” The confirmation of opening date for the CRL was a little premature, but the mahi is well underway, Stacey van der Putten from Auckland Transport (AT) confirms. “We have been making sure Auckland is ready,” she says. “We’re introducing a completely new rail network, bus connections and helping people understand the new travel opportunities.” Any teething issues during the opening period should be rapidly overcome, KiwiRail’s Bevan Assink adds. “We’ll have extra maintenance crews and people working around the clock at our rail operations centre, in case there are any issues during the launch period.” Details will be announced closer to opening day.
Come and Baker, Bishop cross over Visit our New Showhome
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 7
By ISABELLA ROOT
Takaanini Station’s new pedestrian bridge is now officially open, giving locals a safer way to cross the railway. Auckland Council Transport and Infrastructure Delivery Committee chair Andy Baker is pleased to see more progress on the rail network following the recent addition of new stations in Franklin. “It’s fantastic to be here to open another [part of] our rail network,” says Baker, who is also Franklin’s Ward Councillor. “With the CRL opening, our trains are becoming more frequent, they are faster and they are quieter, so getting people off the tracks and getting vehicles off the tracks is so important.” The Takaanini Station bridge was officially opened at the same time as another a little further up the line at
Chris Bishop, Andy Baker and other dignitaries at the opening of the Te Mahia Station bridge.
Takaanini Station’s pedestrian bridge. Photos Isabella Root
Te Mahia Station, Manurewa. Both bridges are part of Auckland Transport’s Rail Level Crossing Programme. Six planned for the area. Transport Minister Chris Bishop, who spoke at the at the opening, says the crossings have been the site of dozens of near misses over
frequent train services on the Southern Line while improving safety and reducing delays for road users and train passengers.” The programme aims to further prepare the rail network for the addition of the City Rail Link (CRL), which opens next month.
the past decade. The bridges replace level crossings and help make way for future train services. “These are dangerous intersections. They are a risk for passengers, a risk for train drivers and for the wider network,” Bishop says. “[They] will allow more
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8 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
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As solutions are being sought with regards to the slippery tiles on the footpaths along King Street, Pukekohe, this original illustration by Roger Smith might just have landed on the answer – free ice skates for all!
Top shot T
he Pukekohe Franklin Camera Club (PFCC) has been in fine form recently. In addition to our showcase – see our arts pages for more – we’ve been sent this remarkable photo. Titled Feathered Friend, the image by Lisa Kearns won the club’s July competition. “Not every photograph comes from a planned photo shoot,” Kearns says. “I had my camera with me while visiting a friend’s place when Daniela, who absolutely adores animals, met these beautiful little chicks. “The moment she gently
Feathered Friend.
held one in her hand, I knew I had to capture it. There was no posing and no direction – just a little girl completely captivated by a tiny, feathered friend. “It’s these authentic, unscripted moments that often make my favourite photographs. Daniela’s sparkling blue eyes, gentle smile and the trust between her and the little chick came together to create a portrait that feels full of warmth, innocence, and connection. “Sometimes, the best photographs aren’t created, they simply happen.”
Photo Lisa Kearns
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 9
10 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Papakura chaplain recognised for work with SAS A Royal New Zealand Navy chaplain was awarded a Chief of Army Commendation, after a four-year stint with the 1st New Zealand Special Air Service (1NZSAS) at Papakura Military Camp. Chaplain Class 3 Rich Lander’s commendation was for his “exceptional dedication and initiative” through his work in conceiving, establishing and leading the Family Support Team (FST) for the families of deployed personnel. The FST set a new standard of excellence in operational family support and made an enduring contribution to the welfare capability of the SAS and the wider New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), according to his citation. The NZDF says Lander identified a critical gap in coordinated family support and in response established a proactive and sustainable framework for family engagement, which has now been integrated into operational planning. It has also significantly strengthened the SAS community and delivered tangible benefits such as improving family resilience,
enhancing command awareness, and fostering a strong sense of connection and trust between deployed personnel and their families, the citation said. Lander, who grew up in Winton, Southland and now lives in Papakura, says he was surprised and humbled by the commendation. “I guess it’s just doing the job and looking after our people the best we can. This was certainly a team effort and couldn’t have done it on my own. I was very lucky to have such a great FST and a fully supportive 1NZSAS command team.” Lander says the NZDF has an amazing range of resources and support available to personnel and their families. One of the FST’s major thrusts was to not wait for partners and families to reach in when there was a problem, but to front foot things and reach out to those who remained at home while personnel were deployed. “This often took the form of a ‘cold’ phone call on behalf of the FST and command, introducing ourselves, being interested in how things were going for them,
Navy chaplain and Papakura resident Rich Lander with Chief of Army, Major General Rose King. Photo supplied and offering support and resources,” Lander says. “The idea was that the FST would just maintain the connection with partners and families through the period of deployments. “In addition to the phone calls, we held deployment dinners for partners and kids to attend, meet the FST and command elements, and importantly, other partners and families of deployed personnel, with the intention of building a sense of community. “Feedback has been really positive from our personnel and partners alike. Even just receiving a phone call seemed to make a difference for some.” When he enlisted in the
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navy in 2016, Lander never envisaged he would be working alongside New Zealand Army personnel directly, let alone the SAS. He found there was a different culture to the navy, which involved different approaches and language. “The SAS are a very motivated, hard-working and committed group of service personnel, who consistently want to excel at their role. In many ways, these are attributes demonstrated by personnel in all branches of the military – but the obvious difference is that the SAS are constantly at the sharp end.” Lander has now posted back to Devonport Naval Base as the co-ordinating chaplain.
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 11
Three generations of Waiuku firefighters By ISABELLA ROOT
W
ith 80 years of combined service from one family, including 54 years from one man, there is no shortage of commitment at Waiuku’s Volunteer Fire Brigade. Keith Midgley started out as a firefighter approximately 50 years ago, becoming the first in his family to do so. His son, Craig, picked up the hose 25 years later and 20 years after that, his grandson, Kaleb, followed suit. Recognising three generations in one brigade, the eldest of the three Midgleys says he is proud of the legacy that he inadvertently began. “It’s a great honour, I’m glad that they followed in my footsteps. They’ve (practically) been brought up in the
fire brigade,” he says. At a recent awards night, third-generation firefighter Kaleb Midgley was among a handful of volunteers recognised for their long service, receiving a medal to mark his five-year milestone. “Kaleb wanted to join since he was a kid. He was going to be a fireman and that was that,” his proud grandfather says. Kevin Maxwell was another member of the brigade commended recently, receiving a gold bar for his 54-year-long stretch, alongside Troy Johnson (37 years). In addition, Ken Rowe was awarded a Long Service Good Conduct Medal. Five others received silver bars for service ranging from seven to 21 years, and two newer recruits acquired their
Top row, from left: Mark McDonagh, Craig Midgley, Peter Drummond. Bottom row, from left: Kevin Maxwell, Colin Riddle, Keith Midgley.
three-year certificates. When Maxwell first joined, the application process was more straightforward than it is today. “I wrote a letter that had only a few words on it. It said: ‘I’d like to join the fire brigade.’ That was it, then I was accepted,” he says. For Maxwell, five and a half decades boils down to the small things just as much as it does bigger emergencies. “I was using the same locker for around 52 years or
Photo Isabella Root
so before they took it off me and gave it to the younger members,” he laughs. During his time in the brigade, Maxwell says a lot has changed. What was once a job focused only on fires now sees a good deal of “blood and guts too,” he adds. Asked why they return to the job year after year, they all indicated that they enjoy the work – a fitting answer from humble people who often risk their lives to keep our community safe.
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12 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Claire McArthur Mortgages is back and better than ever Claire McArthur and Aliesha Rowe are back operating under the Claire McArthur Mortgages brand, providing the boutique, personalised service they have become known for. The why behind the Claire McArthur Mortgages business has always been helping people achieve their home ownership ambitions and building a financial legacy for their family. We understand how meaningful a home is, and the importance of family.
OPERATING AS CLAIRE MCARTHUR MORTGAGES FEELS LIKE HOME This move takes the business back to flexibility and agility. As Claire’s own family has grown, she has gained a fresh perspective on the way she wants to work and the type of employer she wants to be. Claire McArthur Mortgages’ operating model values a balance between focusing time and energy on clients with the freedom to be there for the big milestones and special moments with our families. Providing a consistently excellent service and being there for school cross country.
FULLY SUPPORTING OUR CLIENTS We know what we do well and choose to focus on our work there. We also know why people choose to work with us and keep us on their team for the long haul. From the first connection with our clients and throughout the ongoing relationship, our services and advice develop alongside their wealth journey. This includes identifying their goals and what is important to them, the complementary support they need now, and understanding how it changes as their lives do. Because we want to make
sure our clients get the best possible support, we have carefully built a trusted network of professional service providers throughout the industry. From lawyers to accountants, real estate agents, business coaches and more, these are people and organisations we feel confident connecting our clients with. We know they have the same standards and values our clients look for in Claire McArthur Mortgages, and we know who is
best suited to support each client.
CLAIRE MCARTHUR MORTGAGES’ SERVICES The return to operating as Claire McArthur Mortgages has been carefully managed to minimise disruption, so on an operational level this change just means we can be found at 7G Tobin St in Pukekohe, at www.clairemcarthur.co.nz and hello@clairemcarthur.co.nz.
We are ready to help clients find the right home loan lender and mortgage structure, explore non-bank lending options for asset or investment purchases, and give KiwiSaver advice on choosing the right fund to help grow your retirement savings, faster. The support you are looking for? We are with you all the way. Reach out for a chat and let’s talk about a plan to move you closer to your goals.
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www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21, 2026 | 13
Robots roll into Franklin By ISABELLA ROOT
A
40-foot shipping container packed with robots and other cutting-edge technology is bringing the future to Franklin schools through Innovation Franklin’s new Mobile Innovation Lab. Innovation Franklin and Auckland University of Technology (AUT) recently unveiled the lab in Pukekohe where guests had a sneak peek at student projects. From the outside, the container might not look like much, but it’s designed to give local students hands-on experience with technology they may not otherwise be able to access. Innovation Franklin chair, Mike Marr, says seeing the idea materialise is a milestone for the organisation. “We’re creating a powerful bridge, giving thousands
of local students and the community the chance to see, touch and ask questions about emerging technology.” The university is pleased to partner with Innovation Franklin for the initiative, AUT’s Professor Damon Salesa says.
“I know it’s only a couple of containers, but they will turn people’s eyes skyward. They will get people to look around and see opportunity and that’s exactly the kind of thing we celebrate.” Port Waikato MP Andrew Bayly also attended the
launch. Creating opportunities for young people to put their ideas into action is important for New Zealand’s future, he contends. “I think what we’re probably witnessing here, which we don’t see enough of, is a community coming together to make this happen.” The AUT partnership also includes the AUT Youth Shark Tank, a business competition for high school students across the region, which featured in our previous issue. The mobile lab is part of Innovation Franklin’s long-term goal to establish a permanent innovation campus where locals can access tertiary education, training and enterprise opportunities without leaving the region. Soon enough, robots, drones and other futuristic technology will be playing a role in classrooms throughout Franklin.
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14 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Lim endorses home cooking By PJ TAYLOR
I
t’s election season and celebrity chef Nadia Lim has a common-sense policy that could gain traction with voters: Teach home cooking skills in schools. There have been lots of back-to-basics curriculum changes in education over the past three years and learning how to cook could be viewed as an important life skill, like maths and English. Natural health benefits are numerous, and it’s fiscally prudent, because a healthier population isn’t overwhelming the health system. Lim spoke to the Times on the 10th anniversary of her culinary creation Bargain Box, which followed the popular My Food Bag, and commissioned research that reveals 74 per cent of Kiwis say the cost of living is making it harder to serve up healthy, nutritious meals. The result, “sadly”, is not surprising Lim, she says. “I see it with my friends and family that they’ve noticed a difference. It’s pretty widespread. “I’ve really noticed prices go up and think it must be really hard for so many people around the country. “It’s a potentially bigger issue than what we might realise right now. “When it’s that number of people, that’s not just a financial issue. “I look into the future and go, this could be a public health issue, because when
“There could be a huge shift if we were teaching it [cooking] properly in schools,” says Nadia Lim, of My Food Bag and Bargain Box. Photo supplied you suddenly have that large majority of people struggling and buying less fresh produce and less fresh meat, less fresh food, and then shifting more to processed food. “Over time, being a dietitian, that’s my background, I can see a slippery slope future,” says Lim. “I feel it should be taught in schools. It’s a basic, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory. Food is one of the top three: Food, shelter, water. “You can’t have a thriving population if their basic needs are not met. How to eat well, feed yourself well, is one of every human’s basic rights. “There could be a huge shift if we were teaching it properly in schools. I don’t feel it’s really been done properly lately because there has been a shift to more
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food tech as opposed to basic home cooking skills. “It’s just common sense. You have to tick off the basic foundations of what’s being taught. Teaching people how to live well and for a population to thrive. “It really boggles my mind how government can’t see how important it is,” Lim says. “I try and keep my finger on the pulse, and over the last five years food prices have roughly gone up by about a third, round 30 per cent, which is huge.” Lim speaks with pride when looking back at what she’s achieved in the food industry. “We started My Food Bag a few years before Bargain Box. My Food Bag really took off. “That whole concept of delivering recipes and ingredi-
ents to people’s homes so they didn’t have to plan or think about what was for dinner. “It helped them eat healthier and save time, and helped families eat better quality meals around the table together. “But we always felt we could be helping a much wider audience because there are a lot of people that can’t afford My Food Bag. “We thought how cool would it be if we could make this more accessible? We always wanted to have a product that could be really accessible to a much larger audience than My Food Bag, and that’s where Bargain Box came.” Lim says the business’ research into recipes is “in-depth”. > Full story at www.franklintimes.co.nz
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 15
Parental pay deal positive? By KERRY LEE
& JON RAWLINSON Time may be on parents’ side if government plans come to fruition. While a Franklin organisation is pleased by the news, concerns remain that some parents will still struggle. As previously reported by the Times, the government has made a pre-election promise to gradually extend paid parental leave from 26 to 30 weeks by 2029. Extending paid parental leave is positive, Robyn Driver from Pukekohe-based social service agency Mai Lighthouse asserts. “The first months of a child’s life are incredibly important for bonding, wellbeing and establishing strong family connections. If extend-
ing paid parental leave helps families spend more time together during those crucial early months, that’s worth supporting,” she says. “But many return to work earlier than they’d like because the payment doesn’t come close to replacing their usual income. “Particularly where mortgages, rent and living costs are high, affordability is the biggest barrier. “Our hope is that [government plans are] part of a broader commitment to ensuring every child, regardless of where they’re born or their family’s circumstances, has the opportunity to get the best possible start.” Mai Lighthouse (originally the Family Support Centre) has been providing assis-
Robyn Driver. tance to families since 1979. While parents may receive a little extra, the new Employment Leave Bill extends help to all employees. It includes some most welcome changes to the Holidays Act, but Driver is concerned that it could adversely impact casual workers, commission-based employees and others with irregular working arrangements. “Making leave accrual and sick leave balances simpler to calculate should create greater clarity for employees and employers,” she says.
Photo Isabella Root
“However, we’re also mindful of the potential impact on women, who continue to make up the majority of part-time workers while also carrying much of the responsibility for caring for children and whānau. It’s important that any new leave system doesn’t unintentionally disadvantage those already balancing work with significant caregiving responsibilities,” Driver adds. To read more about government plans to extend leave, search ‘parental leave’ at franklintimes.co.nz.
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www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 17
This property at 249 Queen Street will be auctioned off, with the commission donated to KidsCan. Photo supplied
Let’s make a difference for Kiwi kids: 90K in 90 Days Campaign Arizto real estate agent Darren Szaszy hopes to raise $90,000 to make a difference in the lives of children across the country. “After 16 years in real estate, I realised I wanted to do more than just sell homes – I wanted to make a real difference in my community. Becoming a father of two has changed my perspective completely. Knowing there are children in New Zealand who go without life’s basic essentials really hit home.” Szaszy initially planned to raise $10,000 but decided a goal of
$90,000 would be more challenging, and every dollar closer to the higher goal would make a bigger difference to Kiwi kids. “The cause resonates with myself and my partner now that we are parents. KidsCan are one of the charities that give a lot per dollar – 80 cents to the dollar to the kids. When raising money that’s always the big question, where does the money go?” Szaszy says the community spirit in Franklin is excellent. “Even $5 or $20 goes a big way to
make a difference. We’d love big donations, but $5 or $10 can be a big amount for some people too, and it does go a long way to support these kids. “This fundraiser has given me a new sense of purpose, energy, and drive. Every morning I wake up excited, knowing that each conversation, meeting and connection could help change a child’s life.” A house on Queen Street will be auctioned off to aid the cause. “We also have a very generous vendor who is giving us a very good property in Pukekohe to auction off and we are going to donate all of our commission to KidsCan. The vendor is moving so it’s also a nice way to farewell Franklin.”
The campaign will wrap up with a charity dinner auction night on Thursday, October 22 at Appetite in Pukekohe. “We plan to sell 300 tickets and have some major prizes, and we are currently planning a charity fun run with Navigation Homes. “Together, let’s prove what a community can achieve when we rally behind Kiwi kids. Thank you for being part of the journey. Let’s make a lasting difference.” For more information or to donate scan the QR codes below:
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18 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Harbour health strategy A new strategy, Revitalise Manukau Harbour, will set a course for a healthier, thriving Manukau Harbour, Auckland Council expects. Adopted by Auckland Council’s Policy, Planning and Development Committee, the strategy sets a longterm direction to strengthen biodiversity, improve water quality and build resilience to climate change. “The Manukau Harbour is one of Auckland’s greatest natural taonga, deeply valued by communities, mana whenua and all those who care for its future,” says Auckland mayor, Wayne Brown. “I am passionate about Auckland’s harbours and the work Sea Cleaners have done in cleaning out the creeks that feed into our harbours. While progress has been made, the Manukau Harbour continues to face significant environmental pressures
Photo Times Media
that require a coordinated and sustained response.” Sea Cleaners is a nonprofit organisation tasked with cleaning up waterways. Partnerships will be needed, Brown says. “We cannot achieve this alone. By working together with mana whenua, communities, businesses, government agencies and environmental organisations, we can make meaningful progress
towards restoring the harbour’s health and mauri (life force), protecting biodiversity and improving outcomes for future generations.” Concerns about sedimentation, nutrient enrichment, habitat loss, microplastics, marine pests and changing climate will be addressed. The strategy is grounded in scientific evidence, community priorities and mātauranga Māori through engage-
ment with mana whenua, council principal analyst Georgina Hart adds. “The latest Manukau Harbour state of environment report shows that some parts of the harbour remain healthy and resilient, but there are also areas where sediment, nutrients and habitat degradation continue to affect environmental health. The strategy identifies where the council can have the greatest influence and sets priorities for long-term action,” she adds. “Importantly, it also recognises that council cannot restore the harbour by itself. Success will depend on working closely with mana whenua, communities, businesses, landowners, government agencies and environmental partners across the catchment.” See ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for more.
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www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 19
Lifestyle Living
Surrounded by Nature
Photo Earth Sciences NZ
Gold no good A gold rush it may be, but not the type that’s welcome anywhere near a steel mill. Biosecurity New Zealand has confirmed the presence of the invasive freshwater gold clam in the Ruakohua stream tributary near the Glenbrook Steel Mill. The news reinforces the importance of preventing the movement of freshwater pests between waterways and Auckland Council’s surveillance programme says Samantha Hill, council’s GM Environmental Services. “While this detection is connected to the existing Waikato River incursion, it’s still disappointing to see invasive freshwater gold clam in the Auckland region.” The detection is thought to be linked to the existing Waikato River incursion as the mill is (effectively) connected to the lower Waikato through consented water takes – permission is granted to take water from one region to use in another. Exactly how the incursion occurred may seem simple, but hard work will now be needed to check its spread. “Once freshwater pests become established, they are extremely difficult to remove, which is why preventing their spread remains our best defence,” Hill adds.
Auckland Council, mana whenua and New Zealand Steel are now working together to determine the extent of the clam’s presence at the site and assess the risk of any further spread, with support from Biosecurity New Zealand and Waikato Regional Council. The invasive freshwater clam (Corbicula) was discovered in the Waikato River in 2023. It threatens native ecosystems while also clogging such infrastructure as hydropower generation, water treatment plants and irrigation systems. The clams spread quickly – each one is able to have up to 70,000 juveniles each year. Their microscopic young can easily attach to, and travel on, wetsuits, kayaks and other equipment used in the water unless it is thoroughly dried and treated. To help prevent the spread, ‘check, clean, dry’ all watercraft and gear when moving between waterways, council advises. It is also important to be familiar with Controlled Area Notices (CANs) in place for the Waikato River. Additional information about these pests and how to avoid spreading them is available by searching ‘clams’ at Conservation Auckland’s website, tiakitamakimakaurau.nz.
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20 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Waikato councils united? A unanimous vote at the Waikato District Council (WDC) appears set to pave the way for a Waikato amalgamation. As our previous issue went to print, WDC mayor Aksel Bech confirmed that a Western Waikato Unitary proposal will now be put forward to central government through the Head Start process, which allows councils to submit structural changes. So, councillors may have, effectively, voted that their roles become redundant. “The decision is in some ways the most significant milestone since 1989 when the Waikato District Council was formed,” he says. “No matter the decision we land on, the very nature and shape of Waikato District Council will cease to exist and something else will come in its place.” From the beginning of the Head Start process in May,
WDC mayor Aksel Bech Bech and his fellow WDC councillors have canvased the district for feedback. “We decided early on to hold the pen and show leadership on behalf of communities,” he says. “I am pleased that the recommended option is thinking about the region as a whole
and how best to give effect to the things that our communities told us mattered most, while meeting central government’s criteria.” The Western Waikato model would see a new council responsible for a region stretching from the headwaters of Lake Taupo to
Port Waikato. Of course, a strong partnership between councils is essential should amalgamation be achieved. While South Waikato and Waipa District Councils have also voted in support of the proposal, Hamilton City has opted out, voting against submitting a proposal, at least in its present form. Taupo District Council has rejected the proposal requesting more time from the government. So, while progress has been made, there is more water to pass under this (Waikato River) bridge – more public consultation will be in the pipeline before any final decisions are made. “There should be opportunity for any proposed model to have further community consultation before councils make decisions about the future structure of local government and governance structures,” Bech adds.
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 21
Next step for Head Start C
ouncils nationwide are now relying on Wellington to help reform local government. In total, 18 proposals, including one featuring north Waikato’s Waikato District Council (WDC), have been submitted as part of the Head Start initiative. Head Start is intended to provide pathways for amalgamation along similar lines as Auckland’s councils followed when forming the Super City in 2010. The protocol was established because councils wanted to simplify and streamline local government, RMA (Resource Management Act) Reform Minister, Chris Bishop, explains. “Local government leaders realised that they had to change and they wanted to shape that change,” he says. “Head Start gave councils the opportunity to put forward their own reorganisation ideas and consider how
Original illustration by Roger Smith
local government can be better organised to deliver for their communities.” However, the best laid plans of politicians and geographers sometimes go awry. Some councils have resisted joining in on amalgamations.
In Waikato, WDC is set to unite with Waipa and South Waikato District Councils. However, Hamilton City and Taupo District Councils have, so far, refused invitations to join the bloc. In total, three Waikato Head Start propos-
als have been put forward with none (so far) including Hamilton City Council. Cabinet will now consider which proposals will progress to a detailed design phase, then decide whether they will be implemented ahead of the 2028 local government elections. Local Government Minister Simon Watts says that more information about the proposals will be released as soon as possible. “In some parts of the country, more than one proposal has been submitted. Each of those proposals will be assessed on their own merits against the agreed criteria,” he adds. “The government is also [considering] arrangements for areas that do not progress through Head Start. Decisions will be informed by lessons from the pathway, consultation, feedback and advice from officials.”
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22 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Family at the heart of JB’s Flooring Xtra
The “JB” behind JB’s Flooring Xtra is John Bannister, who began his flooring career at just 15 after leaving Waiuku College. Starting as a flooring apprentice, John has spent more than 50 years doing what he loves – serving the local community and sharing his passion for flooring. Today, JB’s Flooring Xtra is proudly owned and operated by John and Catherine Bannister and remains a true family business. Together, the Bannister family brings more than 150 years of combined flooring experience, including over 120 years dedicated to building and growing JB’s Flooring Xtra. John and Catherine remain actively involved in the business, working from their showroom in the Pukekohe Mega Centre and, more recently, their Waiuku showroom on Queen Street. Three of their adult children hold key leadership roles within the business, while their fourth works independently as a flooring installer and regularly completes installations for JB’s Flooring Xtra. The wider family is also represented, with another family member working in sales and another employed by one of their trusted flooring contractors. Family is at the heart of JB’s Flooring Xtra, and John and Catherine consider every team member part of the JB family. They value the long-standing
we offer free in-home measuring and provide clear, itemised quotations so you know exactly what is included. Our professional installation team can take care of the entire process, from lifting and disposing of existing flooring where required, through to floor preparation and installation, ensuring a quality finish from start to finish.
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relationships they have built with their staff, many of whom have been with the business for years. Together, the team provides the friendly, knowledgeable and trusted service customers have come to expect. John and Catherine are equally grateful to the many customers who have supported the business over the years and trusted them to help choose flooring for their homes and businesses.
OUR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Whether you’re building, renovating, updating your home or office, refreshing your business, creating the ultimate man cave or she shed, or even fitting out a cattery, our team is here to help
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We proudly service a wide area, from the tip of the Awhitu Peninsula through to Drury, Kaiaua, Maramarua, Te Kauwhata, Glen Murray, Port Waikato and everywhere in between. If you’re unsure whether we service your area, simply get in touch – we’re happy to help.
WHERE TO START Getting started is easy. Visit one of our showrooms to explore our extensive flooring range and talk with our friendly team or book a free measure by calling either showroom. You can also request a measure online through the Flooring Xtra website. Once we receive your enquiry, we’ll contact you to arrange a suitable time and guide you through every step. We’re here to make choosing new flooring an enjoyable and stress-free experience, helping you create a space you’ll love for years to come.
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POLITICS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 23
Water rates a rising tide? N
orth Waikato ratepayers have been asked to be prepared for a shock as their first rates bills featuring IAWAI water service charges flow in. However, they are not being overcharged, IAWAI chief executive Peter Winder explains. He says the water component on bills is a split of the previous total charge. “We appreciate that, at first glance, it could come as a shock,” Winder says. “We want to reassure people the separated water charges with their rates bills are not an additional or new charge.” Water and wastewater services for people in the Waikato District and Hamilton City Council regions are now billed separately. Similar to Auckland’s Watercare, IAWAI specialises in water services. The expectation is that this should help keep costs down. While ratepayers may be seeing an increase
Stock image in their bills, rises may have been higher otherwise. “As was forecast in our first Water Services Strategy, water services costs for the average residential property are similar to last year’s, but the rise for these costs in 2026/27 under IAWAI is
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lower than was predicted by councils as standalone organisations,” Winder says. “While we have managed to reduce the projected rises for this year, we recognise any increased cost is tough for people at the moment. The financial challenges
faced by water services across the country are well known and this is why government direction and policy led to IAWAI being formed. “We are working hard to find further efficiencies and minimise the impacts of the historic and new financial challenges we face for our communities.” As systems transition from councils to IAWAI, details on rates invoices have been combined. Payment options and arrangements which were in place or offered by councils for rates will also apply to IAWAI charges. In addition, the national rates rebates scheme now includes both rates and water charges. The rebate will be calculated with the total applied in one amount to the council rates portion, IAWAI confirms. For more information, visit iawai.co.nz or waikatodistrict.govt.nz.
24 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
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www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 25
New drought plan in place Auckland has a plan in place in case of drought this summer as well as healthy water stocks, but shorter showers and refraining from watering gardens will still make sure every drop counts. With total water storage at 94 per cent – almost 10 per cent above the average for this time of year – water restrictions this summer are unlikely, Watercare’s Mark Bourne confirms. “We monitor Auckland’s dam levels, water demand and the weather to make sure we’re in the best position to manage potential dry periods,” he says. “Our dams are almost full as we head into what is forecast to be a dry few months.” Locals are using less water at peak times – during the past five years, the annual average use has dropped. “Aucklanders have done a fantastic job adopting simple water-saving habits, and it
Watercare’s Lower Nihotupu Dam.
Photo supplied
makes a real difference,” he says. “Every litre saved helps. By making water efficiency part of our everyday routine, we can all play a part in helping ensure Auckland continues to have a secure and reliable water supply.” While Auckland’s water
demand can rise substantially on hot, dry days, simple measures add up and they can also help keep water bills down, Bourne advises. “Shorter showers can make a big difference, so try to keep showers to four minutes or less. Water gardens
early in the morning or at dusk to reduce evaporation and always use a trigger nozzle to avoid wasting water. “Checking for leaks is another good way to save water – a leaking toilet can waste up to 80 litres a day.” Although an El Nino climate pattern is expected to bring with drier than usual conditions during spring and summer, Watercare’s Drought Management Plan will ensure there is time for ‘drought preparedness’ if rain stays away. “The Drought Management Plan is all about planning ahead,” Bourne says. “It helps us, council and the community work together to keep water use on track and ensure Aucklanders continue to have access to safe, reliable drinking water.” Visit watercare.co.nz and search ‘water management plan’ to read more about Watercare’s 2026 plan.
Meet the Candidate Thursday 27 August, 7pm St Andrew’s Church 43 Queen Street Pukekohe
Matthew Paul National Party Candidate for Port Waikato
MP Meet the Candidate 1200x1200.indd 1
06/08/2026 2:46 pm
pic.co.nz Authorised M Paul, matthew.paul@national.org.nz
POLITICS
26 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Council counts on savings T
he numbers are in and it looks like Auckland mayor, Wayne Brown, won’t have to go busking in order to ensure the Super City can pay its bills. Although Auckland did require a rates rise, it appears as though frugality in a time of austerity does extend to its council chambers. Council has delivered operational savings, Desley Simpson, deputy mayor and chair of the Value for Money Committee, says. “I want to thank mayor Wayne Brown for his leadership and focus on doing things better, faster and cheaper, as well as the council organisation for taking on this challenge,” she says. “Every dollar saved, and every unnecessary cost avoided, helps us to protect the services and infrastructure Aucklanders rely on, while reducing pressure on rates and debt.”
Stock image Year-end savings for 2025/2026 show council exceeded the $86 million budgeted savings target with total of $97.2 million. In addition, the target has been $20 million higher than last year. It is the largest savings result achieved by council outside of the emergency
Covid-19 budget response and it builds on the $90 million enduring savings achieved in the city’s Longterm Plan, 2021-2031, Simpson confirms. “At a time when councils are facing increasing cost pressures, this result demonstrates our commitment to financial discipline and
delivering value for Aucklanders. To put $97.2 million in context, it is greater than the rates revenue of 48 of the 78 councils in New Zealand.” Council is now focused on meeting its increased $106 million savings target set for 2026/2027. However, achieving it will require some hard graft by councillors. “The low hanging fruit is well and truly gone, so I don’t underestimate the challenge ahead of us,” Simpson adds. “We also have fuel price pressures, high inflation and interest rates which could see the real challenge build to over the $200 million per year savings mark. “This means it is even more crucial that we control our costs and look for nonrates revenue.” An update for the 2026/2027 savings programme will be presented to council’s Value for Money Committee next month.
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 27
Enrol to vote by October 25 Whoever we vote for, voters need to be aware of key changes in place for the 2026 general election. “This year, there’s an important message, that you need to be enrolled before voting starts,” chief electoral officer Karl Le Quesne says. “You won’t be able to enrol or update details when you vote. We need people to know they must be enrolled by October 25. A change to advertising reinforces this.” The Electoral Commission says 3.6 million enrolment packs will be posted out to enrolled voters to ensure details are up to date for the election on November 7. “When you get your pack, open it and check your details are correct. The boundaries of many electorates have changed, so check your electorate too.” Locally, Port Waikato’s boundaries remain the same but others, including Papa-
kura and Takanini, have changed since 2023. “The packs are being delivered August 17–22. If you don’t get one in the mail, it means your address is out of date, or you’re not enrolled,” Le Quesne says. “More than 3.6 million people are enrolled [but] there
is an estimated 440,000 people who are not, including approximately 200,000 18 to 24-year-olds. Talk to your whanau and friends and make sure everyone is enrolled by October 25 so they can vote.” Although ‘Orange Guy and Pup’ are back to guide
New Zealanders through the election process, this year the Electoral Commission’s mascots are leaving behind their orange and purple animated environment and venturing into real world scenes, Le Quesne confirms. “When people see Orange Guy and Pup, they know an election is coming and that it’s time to enrol and vote. “We’re calling on everyone to enrol or update their details by October 4 so that they will receive an EasyVote card, [but] the absolute last day to enrol to vote in this election is October 25 and voting starts on October 26.” People can enrol or update details at vote.nz using a New Zealand driver’s licence, an NZ passport or a RealMe verified identity. Paper enrollment forms can be ordered by calling 0800367656 or texting names and addresses to 3676. Calls and texts are free.
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28 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Looking ahead: The next chapter for Port Waikato As I reflect on my time representing Port Waikato, I find myself thinking about what this part of New Zealand might look like in twenty or thirty years’ time. Recent discussions about whether communities such as Aka Aka, Otaua, Tuakau, and Pokeno should one day sit within Auckland rather than Waikato have generated plenty of debate. The arguments for and against have been well covered elsewhere. What interests me most is what these conversations reveal about the future of our region. When the Port Waikato electorate was created in 2020, it brought together communities that had often looked in different directions. Waiuku, Pukekohe, Tuakau, Pokeno, Te Kauwhata and
the surrounding rural areas became part of a single electorate, reflecting the growing connections across southern Auckland and northern Waikato. Since then, change has accelerated. Drive through Drury, Karaka, Paerata, Pukekohe, Pokeno, or Te Kauwhata and the scale of growth is impossible to ignore. New homes, new businesses and new infrastructure are transforming what was once largely rural land into one of New Zealand’s most significant growth corridors. Families are moving here in record numbers because they see opportunity, connectivity and a great quality of life. That growth will inevitably shape how our commu-
nities are governed and represented. In the years ahead, future Representation Commission reviews may well conclude that the expanding southern Auckland corridor warrants an electorate of its own. Drury, Karaka, Paerata and perhaps even parts of Pukekohe could one day form the centre of a new parliamentary seat. Future generations may choose to revisit where local government boundaries should sit as communities on both sides of the current Auckland–Waikato divide become increasingly interconnected. But while maps and boundaries may change, the foundations of this region will not. Whether you live on a dairy farm in Otaua, run a business in Waiuku, com-
MP for Port Waikato
Andrew Bayly mute from Pokeno, or raise a family in Pukekohe, people want the same things: good infrastructure, quality education, thriving local businesses, strong communities and opportunities for their children. The future geography of our region may look very different from today, yet I remain confident that the qualities which define Port Waikato – community spirit, resilience, innovation and a strong sense of place – will continue to endure. For electorate issues, contact me at andrew@ baylymp.co.nz
Making public transport attractive Politicians used to be accused of being willing to go to the opening of an envelope; that isn’t so common now with such little mail being posted like it used to be. Recently attendance at the opening of an email could be appropriate, with the flurry of activity across Auckland from the opening of the massive central interceptor underground waste pipe built to prevent sewerage flowing into some of our most popular beaches and the Waitemata Harbour, to the new railway stations at
Paerata and Drury. These stations have now been open for a handful of weeks and already are proving popular. Figures from AT show nearly 3,500 boardings at the two stations during the first week of opening but most encouraging was that whilst some (like me) have shifted from other stations to these new ones, patronage at both Pukekohe and Papakura stations has also increased in that time and the data shows there is a spike is new AT Hop cards and users of train ser-
Franklin ward councillor
Andy Baker
vices which shows when we have public transport that is accessible, attractive and affordable, people will give it a go. Our challenge is to make it a more attractive option than driving, which seems to be working in these early days, hopefully it can be maintained. For those who might be thinking the services are unreliable, punctuality of trains at the stations was between 97 percent and 99 percent with reliability at 100 percent, according to AT. At the opening of the Te
Mahia and Taakanini station overbridges, I stood alongside Transport Minister Chris Bishop as our mainstream media showed absolutely no interest in the projects that will save lives and badgered him for around 20 minutes about party politics, ignoring his answers and just yelling the same questions repeatedly. I heard every answer which was later cut and pasted in amongst articles and stories that were so far from what was said that it almost made me sick. Later that day I was told by a breakfast TV reporter that they wanted me to come on their programme but wanted to know my opinion on something and if I wasn’t hard enough, they didn’t want to interview me. Didn’t matter what the truth was, they just wanted the headline story. I am amazed at the lack of integrity. For what it’s worth, after their email, I turned down the offer to appear.
POLITICS
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Future-proofing Papakura I would like to begin by thanking everyone who provided feedback on our draft Papakura Local Board Plan 2026. Across Auckland, more than 11,000 submissions were received on what matters most and what people would like to see in their areas. Around 225 submissions came from residents and organisations across Drury, Papakura, Karaka, and Takanini. It was encouraging to see such strong interest, thoughtful ideas, and community engagement. Thank you to everyone who took the time to be part of the conversation. Your feedback is helping shape the final plan. The Papakura Local Board is now carefully reviewing what the community has told us. The feedback received will help board members better understand local priorities and identify areas that may need further focus or strengthening in the final
local board plan. Council staff are currently analysing submissions, and local board members will consider these insights alongside other information and advice before making final decisions. We want our community to see what we heard and understand what happens next. Over the coming months, consultation insights and feedback summaries will be published on our local board page: tinyurl.com/ PapakuraLBP2026. The final local board plan will be adopted at our business meeting on October 28. You can also stay informed by subscribing to the local board e-newsletter or following the Papakura Local Board on Facebook (facebook.com/ PapakuraLB). Thank you again for helping ensure local voices are heard and reflected in our final plan. On another important matter, after many years of construction, the City Rail Link (CRL) will officially open
Papakura Local Board chair
Kelvin Hieatt
on September 13. This is an exciting milestone for Auckland and our communities in the south. Earlier this month, the new Drury and Paerātā stations opened to the public, with a third station at Ngākōroa scheduled to open next year. Each station includes significant parkand-ride facilities, making it easier for residents to access rail services. New and improved bus routes have also been introduced to better connect surrounding communities. From
a Papakura perspective, we hope these new transport options will help reduce pressure on parking at Papakura Station and surrounding streets. Significant progress has also been made through the level crossing removal programme in Takaanini, including the completion of new pedestrian bridges with stairs and lifts at both Te Mahia and Takaanini stations. It was an honour to join mana whenua, Auckland Transport staff, council colleagues, contractors, and Takanini MP Rima Nakhle at the blessing ceremonies, followed by the official opening event attended by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Chris Bishop. Te Mahia pedestrian bridge will be opened to the public on August 24, while the Takaanini Station bridge opens on September 12, just ahead of the CRL opening. Make sure you check it out if you haven’t already.
New subjects, new skills, and new opportunities? Every parent wants to know that when their child leaves school, they have the knowledge and skills to succeed. From 2029, students in Years 12 and 13 will be able to study nine new industry-developed subjects spanning engineering, primary industries, construction, health, tourism, energy, hospitality, manufacturing, and applied intelligent systems. These subjects will give students the chance to gain skills employers need while completing their secondary school qualifications. They will open doors to university, apprenticeships, further training, or employment.
By expanding offerings, National is ensuring students can succeed on the path that’s right for them. We know students are more engaged when they can see real purpose in what they’re learning and how it connects to their future. That’s true for young people across New Zealand, no matter what their aspirations are. Industry has embraced the opportunity to work with the education sector to prepare young people for the future. It’s a win for employers who need skilled workers, and a win for students who can see how their learning leads to rewarding careers. New Zealand will need
more skilled people to deliver the services and infrastructure our country relies on every day. These subjects will help prepare students for careers in industries that are central to economic growth and productivity. As part of Budget 2026, National also doubled trades academy places to 20,000, giving more young New Zealanders the chance to gain practical, job-ready skills while still at school. This builds on our significant work in education, including funding 1,400 new classrooms, mandating an hour of reading, writing and math’s every day, banning
Prime Minister
Christopher Luxon cell phones in schools, and designing a new qualification to replace NCEA. It’s all part of our plan to put ambition and achievement back at the heart of education, so Kiwi kids are set up for success. National is fixing the basics and building the future.
MOTORING
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ELECTRIC NEWS… In 1965, Bob Dylan went electric, exchanging his acoustic six-string for a Fender Stratocaster. After that, not a lot happened, but now the world is (more than ever) switching on to electric vehicles (EVs). While EVs can be less environmentally harmful than petrol or diesel vehicles, and cheaper to run especially when prices at the pump are high, there are a few things to consider before following Dylan’s lead.
WHAT TO KNOW WHEN BUYING AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE Range is one of the first things to consider. Think about how far you would usually drive and whether the vehicle’s claimed range will be enough. Real-world range can vary depending on driving style, speed, temperature, terrain and whether heating or air conditioning is being used. Charging is another key consideration. Check whether your home has a suitable power supply and whether installing a dedicated charger is practical. Those who regularly travel longer distances should find out where public chargers are located and how quickly they can charge the vehicle. Battery health is vital. The battery is one of the vehicle’s most expensive components, so understanding its condition if
purchasing a vehicle second hand can help verify how long it can be expected to last. Cheap to keep? As EVs tend to have fewer moving parts than petrol and diesel vehicles, they don’t require engine oil changes, for example. However, tyres, brakes, suspension and other components
still need maintenance. An EV can be an excellent choice, but the right vehicle depends on your driving habits, charging options and budget. Do your homework before buying and make sure the vehicle suits your everyday needs, not just its advertised specifications.
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MOTORING
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SIMPLE WAYS TO MAKE YOUR CAR LAST LONGER With the cost of replacing a vehicle continuing to put pressure on household budgets, looking after the car you already own makes good sense. A few simple habits can help extend your car’s life and potentially save thousands of dollars.
DON’T SKIP SERVICING Regular servicing isn’t just about changing the oil. It gives your mechanic an opportunity to identify worn components and small problems before they become expensive ones. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals, even if you don’t drive long distances.
GIVE ENGINE TIME TO WARM UP There’s no need to leave your car idling for ages, but avoid hard acceleration immediately after starting, particularly on cold mornings. Driving gently for the first few minutes allows the engine and fluids to reach their normal operating temperature.
LOOK AFTER YOUR TYRES Incorrect tyre pressures increase wear, affect fuel economy and can compromise
handling. Check pressures regularly and remember to inspect the spare tyre too.
DON’T IGNORE THE LITTLE THINGS A small leak, unusual vibration, or strange noise rarely fixes itself. Getting it checked early may turn an inexpensive repair into exactly that – rather than a major bill later.
KEEP IT CLEAN Washing your vehicle isn’t purely cosmetic.
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Dirt, salt, bird droppings, and other contaminants can damage paintwork over time. Don’t forget areas around the wheels and underneath the vehicle. Finally, drive smoothly. Heavy acceleration, sudden braking and repeatedly hitting potholes all place unnecessary stress on your car. A well-maintained vehicle can provide many years of reliable motoring. Sometimes getting more kilometres from your car is less about what you drive and more about how you treat it.
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WONDERFUL WAIUKU AWAITS As we head into spring and summer, Waiuku will be preparing for summer crowds bound for Karioitahi Beach as well as many other popular seaside spots dotted along the coast of the Awhitu peninsula. Pitstops for top ups are practically par for the course. While Waiuku is a thriving Franklin town in its own right, fair weather visitors will always find many a warm welcome with much to munch on the menu, including bars and restaurants such as the iconic, and historic, Kentish Hotel. The town is rich in history. Manu whenua saw the advantages of the area. Thanks to the Manukau Harbour, it became a gateway for waka heading north via various portages while also being located close to the mouth of the Waikato River, a superhighway of its day. In addition, the region was
prolific growing country thanks to its rich, volcanic soil. European settlers followed. They also saw the merits of the area, especially as an important trading and transport point, linking the area with Auckland. For these reasons, there’s plenty for tourists travelling from far or near to explore. From the Waiuku Museum and pioneer village at Tamakae Reserve, to the nearby Glenbrook Vintage Railway, the past is part of the present in this corner of Franklin. History buffs will also find more historic sites to explore on the peninsula, such as the former Kohekohe Presbyterian Church and, of course, the picturesque Manukau Heads Lighthouse. As both a great stop along the way or as a destination in itself, Waiuku has plenty to offer locals and visitors.
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ARTISTS ON DISPLAY By HELENA O’NEILL A range of art will be showcased in Waiuku later this month. WaiArt Art Group founder Gabrielle Brown says she formed the group in 2020, and last year held its inaugural WaiArt Art Show. The event exhibited 80 pieces, drew more than 250 visitors, and sold 30 pieces of art. “We’re coming off the back of a very successful show last year.” This year’s event will see the nine members of the WaiArt Art Group be joined by nine “outside artists” including Robin Ranga from Sunset Beach. A multi-media artist working across bronze, paint and ceramics, Ranga draws inspiration from both the human figure and the natural world. Her work explores questions of connection, compassion and possibility, often inviting us to pause
Insects inspire the work of Waiuku artist Jane Thorne. and consider a deceptively simple question: “What matters most?” Her work has received national recognition and prestigious awards, including recognition through the Portage Ceramic Awards and multiple People’s Choice Awards. She was also awarded a residency
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at the Nongyuan International Arts Village in Chengdu, China, in 2016, and was an invited participant in Auckland’s Art in the Park from 2021–2023. For artist Jane Thorne, insects are endlessly fascinating – their unusual shapes, intricate details and often extraordinary colours feature prominently in
much of her work. A Bachelor of Visual Arts graduate, Thorne has exhibited with galleries including Uxbridge, McPherson Gallery and Railway Street Gallery, with her work now held in private collections in New Zealand and Europe. She is also an illustrator and face painter, and volunteers as a curator at the Waiuku Museum. Brown says there is no set theme for the show, with a range of mediums and works to be on display. Art will be available to purchase, refreshments sold by the ladies of the Waiuku Lions, and a kids’ activity table. WaiArt Art Group’s 2027 calendar will also be launched at the event. Visitors can also vote for their people’s choice award.
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PROPERTY FOCUS
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Awards for Franklin homes Some of Franklin’s finest homes have been recognised at the recent 2026 Master Builders House of the Year Auckland/Northland/ Coromandel regional awards. While missing the supreme awards, Franklin houses won three of the six lifestyle awards: Environmental and Sustainable Excellence Award (along with a gold award) to Create and Construct for a home in Paerata, Outdoor Living Excellence Award to VDP Construction for a home in Pararekau Island, Karaka, and the Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award (and a gold award) to Design Builders (Franklin/Waikato) for a home in Karioitahi. The judges said Create and Construct’s rural Paerata build presents a comprehensive response to the growing need for greater resilience and reduced reliance on local authority infrastructure. “A substantial photovoltaic array, supported by battery storage, provides renewable energy for the home, while extensive rainwater collection and storage strengthen its ability to operate independently during outages or emergencies. “The same commitment is evident in the construction itself. Porotherm clay blocks
provide both structure and insulation, complemented by high-performance windows and extensive insulation throughout the building envelope. Together, these elements reduce energy demand while supporting a comfortable and stable internal environment across the seasons. Sustainability has not been treated as an added feature, but as a guiding principle carried through the
CABINS LIM TED
design, construction and long-term operation of the home. This is a serious and highly accomplished approach to resilient rural living.” Winner of the Outdoor Living Excellence Award for a home in Pararekau Island, Karaka by VDP Construction was praised for its “outdoor living space [that] makes the most of its
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PROPERTY FOCUS
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Profit from our Knowledge Winner of the New Home up to $500,000 category and a gold award, for a home in Paerata Rise by Frame Homes. spectacular position on Pararekau Island, while responding carefully to the prevailing southerly winds, creating a sheltered and highly usable space without losing its connection to the water.” Meanwhile, the home in Karioitahi by Design Builders (Franklin/Waikato) which won the Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award is described as having a “strong mid-century influence [that] gives these bathrooms their distinctive character. “Bold colours and small-format ceramic tiles have been used with confidence, creating spaces that feel both playful and refined while remaining true to the style of the wider home.” Regional GIB Show Home winner Emandee Homes’ house “stands confidently among the strong line-up at Paerata Rise.” Created by a brother and sister team, the impressive two-storey home presents well from the street and shows a clear understanding of what modern family living can require, say the judges. Also in Paerata Rise, winner of the New Home up to $500,000 category by Frame Homesis described as a “starter home [that] delivers far more than its modest build cost might suggest. From the street, the brick and weatherboard exterior has a welcoming presence, setting up a home that feels carefully designed and well balanced from the outset.”
OTHER FRANKLIN AWARDS
Gold awards: Emandee Homes (two homes in Paerata Rise, one in Patumahoe), Frame Homes (Paerata Rise), Jennian Homes Franklin (Glenbrook), Navigation Homes Counties (Paerata Rise and Pukekohe), Platinum Homes Auckland (Karaka), Sentinel Homes Auckland Central and South (Ramarama), and VDP Construction (Pararekau Island, Karaka). Silver awards: Transbuild (Clevedon and Drury homes), Versatile Pukekohe (Te Kauwhata). Bronze awards: Landmark Homes Auckland – South and Franklin (Pukekohe).
A fortnightly series helping local homeowners get the most from their biggest asset.
Part 4: The Family Area By KELLY Found & Co Last fortnight we stepped through the front door into the entrance and foyer. This week we move deeper, into one of the hardest working spaces in the home: the family area. This room usually connects to the kitchen and dining space, and everyday life happens here. Aim for a feel that’s spacious, relaxed and welcoming. Irene Birt from Gorgeous Homes offers one piece of advice above all others: make the room look and feel as large as possible. Start in the doorway. Stand there and look at the room. Notice where your eye travels first. If ranch sliders open onto a deck or garden, clear the path to them. Buyers want an easy flow through to the entertaining space. A small trick with a big effect: pull your sofas away from the walls. A few centimetres is enough. This gap gives the room breathing space and makes it feel bigger. Furniture choice matters too. Heavy sofas that sit low to the floor fill a room visually. If you’re preparing to sell, swap them for pieces with visible legs, and add a good rug and a well proportioned coffee table to pull the room together. Remember what this room is for: family, relaxation, connection. This is where someone chats while dinner cooks, where kids flop down after school, where everyone gathers at the end of the day. Let your styling tell that story. Artwork adds warmth and personality. If you’re selling, keep it simple. If you’re staying, this space works well for a family photo wall, mixing treasured photos from past generations with new babies, weddings and celebrations. Whether you’re preparing to sell or want to enjoy your home more, think space, flow and feeling. Next time in Profit from our Knowledge: we move into the heart of the home, the kitchen. Reading the series is a great start, but every home is different. Book a free, no obligation Selling consultation with Diana today, to achieve the best result the market will pay. Practical guidance from someone who knows what local buyers respond to.
multi award winner
Diana Cussen 027 225 8131 | d.cussen@barfoot.co.nz
36 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Not One Award-Winning Home. An Entire Award-Winning Community. Across Paerata Rise, multiple builders have been recognised by the Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards for excellence in design, craftsmanship and innovation. From Gold Awards and Category Winners, to Top 100 national recognition, our Build Partners continue to set the benchmark for new home construction.
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paeratarise.co.nz
The best evidence of the quality of Paerata Rise isn’t what we say. It’s what independent judges keep saying. When you choose to build in Paerata Rise, you’re not simply choosing a builder. You’re choosing a community where awardwinning homes aren’t the exception, they’re part of the neighbourhood.
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PROPERTY FOCUS
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Magnificent views, wonderful community Nestled in the heart of the Hokianga, Rawene is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most charming harbour towns. An opportunity to own a lovely 1940s has opened up in the centre of Rawene. This beautifully finished four-bedroom home combines complete privacy with incredible water views from nearly every room. Vendor Fiona says the house is cleverly designed, creating a balanced feel across the home. “It’s a really thoughtfully designed house, and the flow of the house is very easy, and it makes for really easy living. The house was originally designed for a family of 10, with eight children, and has plenty of storage space under the house. “Each room has its own lovely aspect. And the house sits magnificently, to the sun on the section.” It has always been a happy house, Fiona says. Recently one of the girls who grew up there came back with family members
to show them “the big house” and to reminisce about her happy memories growing up in the home. While it’s hard to choose just one favourite feature, the panoramic views of the Hokianga Harbour are hard to beat, she says. “There are glorious water views from absolutely every room in the house (except the bathrooms and the laundry). You’re constantly living in the light and in the view all the time. It’s a really beautiful house to live in.” Fiona says the house is warm
Suzy Carmody Phone: 022 040 5536 Email: s.carmody@barfoot.co.nz
in the winter and remains quite cool in the summer due to the ventilation, and the height on the section which catches all the breezes. Located directly across the road from the Rawene Police Station (where the resident policeman lives), all amenities are handy and within walking distance. Next door is a local organic fruit and vegetable shop that also sells spices, chutneys, milk, and bread – a very handy pantry. “I jokingly tell everyone I live in the middle of town, but it’s incred-
ibly private because of its high elevation on this section. You can see out, but actually passerbys can’t see in at all, which is such a luxury. I love that there’s always a sunny place to sit, both in the house and in the garden. And conversely, in the summertime, there’s always a nice, shady spot to sit in when it’s hot outside.” The piece of land behind the house is also a possible development site, so there are options for those interested in putting a second home on the property. Since Fiona bought the house 11 years ago, the house has undergone a raft of restoration, with builder Steve Kruyff working hard to ensure all 42 windows are fully operational. The fireplace has been repaired and two ducted central heating air conditioning units installed – one upstairs and one downstairs – keeping the house cosy in the winter and cool in the summer. The toilets, bathrooms, and laundry have all been modernised too.
Keen to learn more?
www.barfoot.co.nz/property/ residential/far-north-district/ rawene/house/907898
PROPERTY FOCUS “I’ve now got a glorious walk-in wet room shower with marble tiles, marble tiled laundry with underfloor heating and modern appliances, and the old workbench area is now a wall of cupboards for storage, with a separate fridge and space for your usual vacuum cleaner, brooms, mops, etc. I’ve created an outdoor courtyard area of garden off the kitchen, so that required me levelling that area and making it more practical and usable. It’s now a lovely place to sit and enjoy life.” This historic home captures the very essence of Rawene – character, community, and coastal charm in one of the Far North’s most picturesque settings. With its warm climate and rich kauri forests, the Hokianga
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attracted some of New Zealand’s first European settlers. The historic town of Rawene has a legacy of heritage buildings from this time and is New Zealand’s third oldest European settlement. Look for Clendon House, built in the 1860s; the Masonic Hotel, from 1875; the Methodist Church, 1876; and the courthouse, which was built in 1875. Rawene is also a place to enjoy excellent espresso, gourmet pizza, and fascinating arts and crafts shops. Take a stroll on the mangrove walkway, which offers an interesting view of a wetland habitat. A ferry service runs between Rawene and Kohukohu – which also has a buzzing arts scene – making it possible to explore the more isolated northern side of the Hokianga Harbour.
16 Parnell Street, Rawene, Far North • Character, comfort and views: North-facing and bathed in natural light year-round, this residence perfectly blends timeless character with modern luxury. • Blends a contemporary kitchen and bathrooms and a sunroom, with original Art Deco light fittings and polished hardwood floors. Year-round comfort is guaranteed with both a cozy open fireplace and ducted heating/air-conditioning • Generous living areas flow effortlessly to a private balcony, creating the perfect vantage point to unwind and take in sweeping views of the harbour over morning coffee or evening sunsets • A well-kept garden offers an ideal space to relax, cultivate, or entertain, complete with a carport and ample parking
• A vibrant, self-contained community life in Rawene flows at a peaceful pace, offering the perfect blend of small-town warmth, stunning harbour scenery, while everything you need is right at your fingertips. • Enjoy the iconic Boatshed Cafe, boutique shops, local art galleries, churches, a library, and various community clubs. • Stay active with a local gym and a scenic 9-hole golf course and club. The town boasts a popular campground, and the convenience of a harbour ferry link • Excellent local essential services including a mini-superette/post office, a petrol station with a mechanic-run garage, and a primary school, with high schools just 30 minutes away. Fully equipped with a local hospital, St John station, police station, and a volunteer fire station.
PROPERTY FOCUS
40 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Making property management work for you Delivering property management with a personal touch is important to Arean Lubbers. Through FCC Property Management, Arean offers competitive rates and, unlike the large companies, has the flexibility to offer a tailored approach. “I think it’s important to offer customisable, flexible approaches that work for you, your tenants, and your property. Each property is different.” Arean manages residential and rural properties across the wider Franklin area, including property in Huntly. For Ina, who lives in Europe, having a property manager she can rely on gives her peace of mind while living so far away. “As an absent landlady I have to rely on a good property manager. I know Arean personally as a former colleague therefore I knew I could trust her. She found a good tenant in a short amount of time and communicates well without prompting. “Her reports are detailed and accompanied by pictures it gives me a regular complete overview of the state of my property.” Arean has been managing Paola’s property for six years, taking all the stress out of being a landlord, Paola says. “She isn’t just kind and a great communicator. She’s exceptionally proactive. She knows the local market inside out and always connects us with the right people for repairs. What sets her apart is her attention to detail: her inspection reports are always thorough and on time, and she keeps safety a priority (like quickly stepping in when tenants set up an unfenced pool). She truly looks out for both the owner and the property.” Tenant Kyly says that while renting through Arean, she was
Arean Lubbers with her husband Wenny at the recent 2026 Auckland, Northland, and Coromandel Registered Master Builders House of the Year. Photo supplied professional, friendly, reliable and easy to communicate with. “They have always treated us with respect and have been approachable whenever we have had questions or concerns about our tenancy. Arean has been responsive to maintenance requests and has worked hard to ensure that any issues are dealt with promptly and fairly. We have appreciated the clear communication and support throughout our tenancy. “We have had a positive experience as tenants and would happily recommend Arean Lubber to other tenants and property owners.” When Arean completed her Level 4 Residential Property Management through Skills Institute, she was asked to return as an assessor, marking assessments. “It’s a great way to keep up to
date with all the new regulations as they come in,” she says. One thing people don’t always realise about property managers is that they are in between landlords and tenants. “Landlords sometimes think that you only on the on the tenant side, and tenants often think you only on the landlord side. But we’re actually not. We are in between and have to obey the law as well – having the knowledge of what each party can do is really important for everyone.” That’s where Arean’s more than 16 years of experience comes into play. She also has excellent knowledge of the construction industry, owning Versatile Pukekohe with her husband Wenny since 2016. Versatile Pukekohe won a silver award at the recent 2026 Auckland, Northland, and Coromandel Registered Master Builders House of the
Year for a home in Te Kauwhata. “I’m very proud of our silver award. It’s our tenth award since we bought into the company. “It’s really useful to have that construction knowledge as it helps me pick up any issues with properties a lot quicker.” Arean’s wealth of knowledge gives landlords Alex and Anke confidence in her approach. “Arean has been looking after our properties for several years. She is very helpful and happy to step in when needed. She is detailed in her reports and mediates between us and the tenant when we want to do maintenance. When we had to take a tenant to the Tenancy Tribunal, she stood by our sides and guided us through the hearing to get the best possibly outcome.” Get in touch with Arean today to learn more about her tailored property management services.
Phone 027 279 5850 property@franklincommercial.co.nz property.franklincommercial.co.nz
PROPERTY FOCUS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 41
Franklin rents softening?
Bucking a national trend, rents have softened in Franklin, but fewer properties have come onto the market. As a result, desirable properties are still attracting strong interest, Realestate.co.nz’s Vanessa Williams confirms. The average weekly asking rent in the region eased to around $662 in July, down from $673 in June and $668 this time last year, while 15.3 per cent fewer properties came onto the market than in July last year, she says. “Franklin is showing a slightly different dynamic than the wider Auckland market. It will be interesting to see where it goes from here.
fewer new rentals listed on realestate.co.nz.
“For now, the data points to a market that remains reasonably balanced, but with the potential to become more competitive for renters if that supply trend continues.”
“That fits the broader picture nationally, where rental supply is beginning to tighten and wellpriced properties are snapped up by tenants,” Williams says. “In Auckland, we’re seeing rental supply pull back without a significant shift in asking rents. That suggests the market may be moving towards a more balanced position after a period where renters had plenty of choice.”
As a whole, Auckland continues to be a relatively high-cost rental market, with the region’s average weekly asking rent sitting at $689 per week in July. However, it too has had
If the number of properties coming to market continues to fall, competition should increase, particularly for well-located and well-priced homes, she adds.
If rental supply continues to tighten while demand holds up, the softness in asking rents may prove relatively short-lived.
Build the Life You’ve Always Imagined
With regard to sales, vendors nationwide who are holding out for yesterday’s prices are at risk of being left behind, Williams warns. Realestate.co.nz’s data shows national stocks are up 9.3 per cent year-on-year while asking prices have remained largely unchanged. “There’s a perception that the market has stalled, but that’s not what we’re seeing. Buyers have more choice than they did a year ago, yet they’re still willing to act when a property is priced for today’s market.” More up-to-date findings are available in Realestate.co.nz’s July Property Report.
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Park Green is a premium 97-hectare master-planned community that is delivering more than 1250 homes. Designed around connection and convenience, the neighbourhood to k features a primary school, early childhood centre, cafés and local shops, creating a vibrant village atmosphere. the Just Q minutes from the new Drury Central Rail Station and Kiwi Property’s future metropolitan centre, residents also enjoy an extensive network of cycleways, walkways and wetlands.
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42 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
"BUYING OR SELLING in Park Green? LET'S MAKE IT EASY."
Cassie Su 021 217 9229 Eric Xue 022 587 3340
GJ Gardner Homes with 10 Year Master Build
10B Cronshaw Rd, Karaka
Perfectly positioned near the motorway and the fast-growing Drury South Growth Hub, which is currently undergoing one of the largest master-planned urban transformations in New Zealand’s history. With upcoming rail stations, the future Drury Metropolitan Centre, a brand-new shopping mall, and Costco all moving forward rapidly, this is a golden opportunity you’ll want to act on quickly before this pocket becomes the hottest market in town. This single-level brick beauty is complete and ready for you today, comes with a 10-Year Master Build Guarantee, and is packed with features. It offers four generous bedrooms, including a master with an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe, a designer kitchen with stone benchtops, and a spacious open-plan living area. You’ll love how the living space flows out to a private, fully fenced backyard that provides a very safe and sunny spot for family gatherings. Best of all, it features a rare double garage, two off-street parking spaces, and an installed heat pump for year-round comfort. This is your chance to get in early and secure an incredible asset before everyone else catches on. Call us today for a private viewing to secure this lovely home. Open homes: Saturday / Sunday 1:15pm-2:00pm For Sale: $979,000 Property ID: 935743
Eric Xue 022 587 3340
Cassie Su 021 217 9229
HOME & GARDEN
Trusted European www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 43
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and operated. Being an importer and distributor they supply and can organise installation New Zealand wide. Business owner Andre Nel says engineered timber boards use a multi-layer core (cross-layered plywood) with a genuine European hardwood veneer on top, which resists cupping, shrinking and swelling better than solid wood in variable humidity and temperature. “The top veneer look is authentic, and it preserves the look and feel of solid timber. Engineered construction prevents movement issues of equivalent solid planks. “As it is real wood, you will have the ability to sand and refinish the floor (depending on veneer thickness). It’s suitable in
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lifestyle block animals need on an annual basis? 44 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
TALK TO US TODAY PETS
CA EMAIL www.
VET TALK
, FRANKIE S HOTSPOT Rural Living FVS Jan25.indd 2
H
otspots are patches of infected skin that can appear rapidly on a dog’s skin, often in warmer, humid weather, though they can occur at any time of year. Dogs who are prone to skin allergies are also particularly susceptible. Frankie was such a dog who had two small irritations on his back that rapidly turned into raw, angry wounds (see photos). Things to watch out for are licking or chewing one spot, red or inflamed skin, hair loss and moist/weepy or bleeding skin. If you notice these signs, it is best to visit your vet so they can clip and
clean the wounds, provide treatment such as antibiotics for infection and prednisone to reduce inflammation. Sometimes topical creams are added to help calm the skin and reduce self-trauma from chewing and scratching. The quicker you treat them, the less likely they are to spread and the quicker they will heal. In some cases that are particularly stubborn to manage, vets may refer your pet to a veterinary dermatologist for allergy testing (to check for environmental triggers). This is with a view to starting your pet on a course of injections
to desensitise them to the offending cause, often in conjunction with ongoing management provided by your usual vet. Addressing the underlying allergy with long-term management, such as flea control, low-allergy food, shampoos, and anti-itch medication, will also be important to help prevent further episodes. Vets can now provide various options, including daily tablets or monthly injections, to help reduce discomfort from itchy skin. Management is lifelong and will require ongoing prevention, as well as treatment at times of flareups, which occur from exter-
Dr Katherine Johnson
Veterinarian, Franklin Vets Pukekohe nal triggers (e.g. fleas/certain food/ grasses). Frankie was on the mend soon after starting treatment and is much more comfortable.
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PETS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 45
Second chance for Enza E
nza was found wandering the streets of Huntly with a badly damaged back leg; she was alone and in need of help. Waikato District Council’s animal control team took her directly to Global Vets where she received medication to keep her comfortable while we waited for her owners to come forward. After the mandatory seven day holding period passed without anyone coming forward to claim her, it became clear the best way to give Enza a happy, pain-free future was to amputate the injured leg. That’s where long-time partners Fundraising for Impounded Dogs stepped in. Using money donated by the Pound Pup Pool Party back in April, they helped cover the cost of Enza’s life-changing surgery at GT Vets. “Every dog deserves a second chance, and Enza is a
Enza is proving that life on three legs is no obstacle to living it to the fullest. Photo supplied perfect example of what can happen when people come together to help,” says Hayley [surname withheld)], an animal control education and engagement officer. “She’s gone from facing an uncertain future to enjoying life, and now all she needs is a forever family to complete
her journey.” Now recovering in a foster home with an animal control officer, Enza has settled in beautifully. She’s making friends with all sorts of weird and wonderful animals, soaking up plenty of affection, and proving every day that life
on three legs is just as full of adventure. Enza has healed beautifully and found her “furever home” – proving that life on three legs is no obstacle to living it to the fullest. Her journey could have ended very differently, but thanks to the kindness, generosity and teamwork of everyone involved, Enza now has the second chance she deserves and a bright future ahead. • Work is underway to award a contract for the council’s new Tuakau Satellite Dog Pound on Bollard Road. The council says the facility will service the northern zones of the district by providing temporary accommodation for up to 16 dogs and acting as an overflow to the centralised dog pound in Ngaruawahia, adding a local option for those in the northern areas of the district.
BUSINESS
46 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Preparing for Get ready for the interest rate changes new Employment makes the difference Interest rates are something every homeowner hears about, but many people don’t realise how even small changes can affect their mortgage repayments. Whether rates rise or fall, having a plan in place can make a significant difference to your financial wellbeing. At NZHL Pukekohe, we believe a mortgage should be more than simply borrowing money. It should form part of a long-term financial strategy that helps you achieve your goals and gives you confidence, regardless of what the market is doing. When interest rates rise, repayments can increase, placing added pressure on household budgets. When rates fall, many people see an opportunity to reduce their repayments. While that can provide short-term relief, it can also be a valuable opportunity to continue making higher repayments, if afforda-
ble, to reduce your loan balance faster and save thousands of dollars in interest over the life of your mortgage. Good money management is equally important. Understanding where your money goes, setting realistic budgets, reducing unnecessary debt, and regularly reviewing your financial position can all contribute to greater financial security. Every person’s situation is different, which is why personalised advice is so valuable. We work alongside our clients to understand their goals, structure lending appropriately, and develop strategies that can adapt as life changes. We also look beyond the mortgage, considering insurance, KiwiSaver, and long-term planning to help build lasting financial resilience. Interest rates will always move up and down. The key is not trying to predict the market; it’s having a plan that keeps you moving forward.
Leave Act: CHANGES TO HOLIDAYS
By RANI (Partner) and LIBBY (Solicitor) in the employment law team at Rice Craig The Holidays Act has long been one of the most challenging pieces of employment legislation for New Zealand businesses. Complex calculations, changing work patterns, and payroll issues meant even careful employers got it wrong. The new Employment Leave Act 2026 aims to simplify the system. It will replace the Holidays Act with a new hours-based framework. Key changes include: • Leave accrues in hours, rather than days or weeks. • Employees accrue leave from their first day of employment, including sick and bereavement leave.
• Leave accrues based on standard hours and is taken in hours (not days, or part days). Most changes do not take effect until August 6, 2028. Employers have two years to update payroll systems and a further year to update employment agreements. Employers can take practical steps now: • Ensure your payroll system will be ready. • Plan updates to employment agreements. • Review employees’ working hours and the likely impact. • Budget for implementation, training, and any legal/ accounting costs.
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BUSINESS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 47
Firm bonds established I
nvesting in local people has encouraged investment firm Forsyth Barr to take a seat at Franklin’s table. Last week, the investment specialists celebrated joining the Franklin business community by hosting a lunch at top local restaurant, Bracu Estate in Bombay. Guests and staff enjoyed the lunch, Forsyth Barr investment adviser Tom Fleetwood confirms. “The service at Bracu was excellent, welcoming and friendly. The food was delicious and worked perfectly with the informal setting, and the creme brule was especially popular,” he says. “We were delighted with the turnout on the day. Many of the guests were interested to learn more about our company’s long history and commitment to the communities in which we work.”
Forsyth Barr Pukekohe team, left to right: Preyesh Master, David Morgan, Tom Fleetwood and Liz Brown Douglas. Photo supplied The guest list included local professionals from the legal, accounting, insurance and real estate sectors, existing and prospective clients in the Franklin region as well as representatives from the Pukekohe Business Association welcoming the Forsyth
Lev l2,Campbel TysonBusines Centre,3WesleyStre t, Puke ohe | forsythbar .co.nz | (09)918920
Barr team to our town. While the company’s managing director, Neil PaviourSmith attended the event, the day was focused on the firm’s new Pukekohe team, now based at the Campbell Tyson Business Centre. Liz Brown Douglas is
Pukekohe’s Pukekohe’s newest newest name name in in investment investment advice advice is is New New Zealand’s Zealand’s oldest. oldest. We We look look forward forward to to meeting meeting you. you. Forsyth Barr. Investing in Forsyth Barr. Investing in New Zealand since 1936. New Zealand since 1936.
Level 2, Campbell Tyson Business Centre, 3 Wesley Street, Level 2, Campbell Tyson Business| Centre, 3 Wesley Pukekohe | forsythbarr.co.nz (09) 918 9200 Street, Pukekohe | forsythbarr.co.nz | (09) 918 9200
leading the local office with Fleetwood and other local advisers, Preyesh Master and David Morgan. The office is new, but Fleetwood, Master and Morgan have all lived or worked in the Pukekohe area for more than 15 years. The Pukekohe office is Forsyth Barr’s 26th nationwide, ensuring the firm can provide local services with the backing of a national network, Fleetwood explains. “Building Forsyth Barr’s business in Franklin is a great opportunity to work closely with our local community. We are committed to providing personalised advice at a local level,” he adds. “Franklin is still home to a lot of primary industry business and one of the fastest growing communities in the country. For these reasons, it’s the perfect time for the company to establish a branch here.”
PUK7832-02 PUK7832-02 - June- 2026 June 2026
By JON RAWLINSON
48 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
PART ONE
Vote for us – Z Good in the Hood Your token. Your community. Vote for Mai Lighthouse at Z Bombay this August.
By MAI LIGHTHOUSE If you’ve filled up at Z Bombay recently, you may have noticed something a little different at the counter. A token. And a choice. Z Energy’s Good in the Hood campaign gives customers the chance to direct funding to a local community organisation, simply by dropping a token into a box. No forms. No fuss. Just a small gesture with a big impact. This year, Mai Lighthouse has been selected at Z Bombay – and we’d love your support. But first, we want to make sure you know exactly what your token goes towards. Because we do a lot more than many people realise. Here’s what Mai Lighthouse offers – all free, all confidential: Our social workers walk alongside whanau navigating some of life’s hardest moments. Our counsellors provide tamariki and adults with a safe place to work through feelings and problems. Our financial mentors sit down with whānau to untangle debt, build budgets, and access entitlements they didn’t know they had. We also offer a free legal clinic every Thursday, a JP service, medical transport for whanau who can’t get to appointments, and a Heartland Services hub helping people navigate government agencies. Our programmes include Rangatahi Strong for young people aged 16-24, Teen Toolbox and Incredible Years for parents, and maiTane – a transformative programme for tane in our community. And our beloved Tuakau Op Shop at 5 George Street keeps the lights on while giving our community a place to find treasures and donate pre-loved goods. Every token dropped in our box at Z Bombay helps fund this mahi – for the whanau of Franklin and North Waikato who need it most. Voting runs from August 18 to September 14. Next time you’re at Z Bombay, we’d love your vote. Mai Lighthouse – Guiding Whanau to Wellbeing 09 238 6233 | admin@mailighthouse.org.nz www.mailighthouse.org.nz You may know us as Franklin Family Support Services same whanau, same heart, new name.
Have you been putting off doing your will? This is article one of three in a short series from Wynyard Wood demystifying wills for Kiwi families. Still avoiding your will? If so, you are in good company. For most of us, a will sits on the list of things to get to eventually – somewhere below the guttering and above the tax return. It is one of the most important things you will ever sign. A professionally prepared will ensures the people you love and the assets you have worked hard for are protected if the unexpected happens. Most importantly, it ensures your wishes are carried out, and the people you care about are looked after. It is a simple step that can make a lasting difference. So who needs one? More people than assume they do. • KiwiSaver members. Your balance forms part of your estate – have you considered where it goes? • Anyone whose situation is complicated. Blended families, a business, property in more than one place: all call for careful planning. • Anyone with a view on who gets what. A will is your best tool for directing how your estate is distributed. • Parents. Your will is where you name a guardian for your children. • Older New Zealanders. In-home visits from our friendly team may be available for those who find travel difficult. The process is simpler than most people imagine: seven clear steps beginning with a conversation and our online questionnaire, ending with your signature. Leave your family with a clear, legally robust document that details your wishes. Whatever your age and stage, the wills specialists at Wynyard Wood can prepare a will tailored to your situation. If you have been putting yours off, contact us to protect you and your family’s future. We’re ready for what’s next. Are you? wynyardwood.co.nz/wills | 09 969 0126 wynyardwood.co.nz/wills Tel. 09 969 0126
Have you been putting off doing your Will? One of the most important things you’ll ever sign, a professionally prepared Will ensures the people you love and the assets you’ve worked hard for are protected if the unexpected happens. Most importantly, a Will ensures your wishes are carried out and the people you care about are looked after. It’s a simple step that can make a lasting difference. We’re ready for what’s next. Are you?
www.mailighthouse.org.nz
BUSINESS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 49
Fest backs new business A
five-day festival is expected to help kickstart innovative business ideas in the Super City. Auckland Startup Week (October 12–16, GridAKL, Wynyard Quarter) will connect startup founders with industry experts. The festival is presented by Auckland Council’s Economic Development Office in association with investment firms, research institutes, universities and corporates. It is intended to help position Auckland as a centre of tech and innovation, the office’s Pam Ford confirms. “Auckland Startup Week is a chance to shine a light on entrepreneurs and celebrate ingenuity,” she says. “We want all participants to succeed – whether it’s someone who’s curious about making that smart idea of theirs a reality, someone else who wants to take their business to the next level,
Amanda Aaltonen, cofounder and CEO of Noaur at 2026 Auckland Startup Week launch, August 5. Photo supplied or an angel or institutional investor who is looking for the next big thing.” Last year’s festival showcased 135 startups to more than 4000 attendees at 32 events across 10 venues.
This year’s theme, ‘the rebellion in our DNA,’ encourages participants to challenge established markets and explore new possibilities. The future of Auckland is being built by bold
ideas of local entrepreneurs, mayor Wayne Brown says. “These are our creators and risk-takers who put their careers on the line to found companies to solve the problems of today. They’re worth celebrating, and most people don’t even know they’re here,” he says. “Auckland Startup Week [is] part of our work to make Auckland the tech and innovation hub of the South Pacific.” This year’s speakers include Facebook Marketplace founder, Bowen Pan, and influential entrepreneur Derek Handley, with further names to be announced. Most of the festival’s events – including workshops, pitch competitions and networking sessions – will be free to attend. Business founders keen to take part must apply before September 3. Additional information is accessible via aucklandstartupweek.com.
HEALTH & WELLBEING
50 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
MICHELLE COSTELLO
SHARLEEN BUCHANAN
General Manager, Jennian Homes Franklin Ph 09 238 6156 | www.jennian.co.nz Email michelle.costello@jennian.co.nz
Regional Manager, Pukekohe and North Waikato, Bayleys Ph 021 404 871 | Email sharleen.buchanan@bayleys.co.nz www.bayleys.co.nz
Part of being a woman in business is about giving back, helping those following to reach new ceilings.
This month I am keen to talk about Bayleys ‘COUNTRY’ Magazine.
Giving back to those who are starting out on their life journey is a great way to support the younger generation. During my own postgraduate study at the University of Auckland, I came across their Women’s Mentoring Programme. This business school programme is for young women studying in their last year or two. There is a lack of women at senior levels in the corporate world and by providing an opportunity for the businesswomen of tomorrow to learn from the successful businesswomen of today the He Ira Wahine programme hopes to help address this. I have been a mentor twice now and absolutely love it! The young women of today come across as confident, and fearless and yet still feel concerned about entering the world of employment and business. Being able to coach, support and empower these young women is exciting and very satisfying!
MARISSA CHAPMAN General Manager, Grahams Funeral Services, Ph 09 2368919 | Email marissa@grahamsfunerals.co.nz www.grahamsfunerals.co.nz My career began as a young woman entering the funeral industry, driven by a passion to care for people during some of life’s most difficult moments. I qualified as an embalmer and was fortunate to receive several awards recognising both my practical skills and my understanding of the theory behind embalming. Working as an embalmer provided the foundation for my career and eventually led me into leadership. It taught me the most important lesson of all: every person entrusted to our care should be treated as if they were a member of our own family. Embalming is about far more than preservation. It involves washing and caring for the body, dressing someone in their favourite clothes, placing a treasured hat or scarf, and it might be applying Mum’s signature red lipstick. These thoughtful details help create a meaningful farewell. Families deserve the opportunity to spend time with their loved ones, share stories, and say goodbye. This positive viewing experience can play an important role in the grieving process. It is a privilege and an honour to provide this care every day, and at Grahams, we embalm with respect, skill, and attention.
Designed specifically for those passionate about lifestyle properties, land, equestrian pursuits, farming, and country life - it reaches readers who are actively invested in the rural market. More than just a property publication, Bayleys ‘COUNTRY’ showcases the people, places, and stories that make rural and lifestyle communities like ours thrive. With premium editorial content and beautifully presented property, it creates an environment where this magazine is viewed by readers who genuinely aspire to the lifestyle on offer. This means greater exposure to a targeted audience and increased engagement with qualified buyers, Bayleys ‘COUNTRY’ helps bring buyers and country living together. Keen to feature your property? Or want a copy when published? Either way, I can assist.
SARAH MISKELL CA, Director, Campbell Tyson Ph 09 238 9219 | Email s.miskell@ct.co.nz www.ct.co.nz A good year can give farming families something especially valuable: the space to look beyond the next season. Increasingly, conversations on-farm are turning to the next three to five years. Where does the family want the business to go, and what needs to be put in place now? A realistic budget and cash flow forecast help make those conversations practical. They show what may be possible, what commitments lie ahead, and where there is flexibility if prices soften, costs rise or interest rates move again. But planning is not only about numbers. It’s also about having important conversations that are easy to put off. Has succession been discussed? Are everyone’s expectations understood? What might the next chapter look like? As both a dairy farmer and Chartered Accountant, I know plans will change. The value is in starting these conversations early, while there is time and choice, rather than waiting until decisions have to be made under pressure.
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 51
SHARNIE THOMSON Owner-Operator, McKenzie Manor Email info@mckenziemanor.co.nz @mckenzie_manor
WIN!
TO ENTER THE DRAW FOR THESE COMPETITIONS AND MORE VISIT WWW.FRANKLINTIMES.CO.NZ/WIN
There’s a certain confidence that comes from knowing what comes next. Whether it’s in business, within a team, or at home, clear expectations give us something incredibly valuable – a sense of security. When we understand what’s expected of us and what we can expect in return, we’re far better equipped to relax, adapt and thrive. It’s a philosophy I’ve carried through leadership, motherhood and now into the way we’ve built McKenzie Manor. Unlike a dog daycare, many of our guests don’t head home at the end of the day. From days, weeks or sometimes longer, we become their home. To us good boarding care isn’t simply about filling their days with short spurts of activity; it’s about meeting their needs across the entirety of their stay.
A CASE OF THE NEW BARRIER BUZZ RASPBERRY & LEMONADE!
Quality sleep, appropriate exercise, enrichment, companionship and quiet time all matter. But so does predictability. When a dog learns the rhythm here, we often see uncertainty replaced by confidence. You can get in touch with me via email at info@mckenziemanor.co.nz
CLAIRE MCARTHUR
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Financial Adviser, Claire McArthur Mortgages Ph 021 02000 177 | Email claire@clairemcarthur.co.nz www.clairemcarthur.co.nz I’m thrilled to share some exciting news – Claire McArthur Mortgages, established back in 2018, is relaunching! The why behind my business has never changed: helping Franklin families achieve home ownership and build a lasting financial legacy. My own growing family has given me a fresh perspective on how I want to work, and it’s led me right back to where I feel most at home. From Friday, August 14, Aleisha and I will once again be working as Claire McArthur Mortgages.
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This gives us the flexibility to focus fully on our clients, backed by the same trusted referral network and boutique, personalised service you already know. You’ll now find us at 7G Tobin Street, Pukekohe, emailing from our @ clairemcarthur.co.nz addresses – everything else stays easy as. Excited for this next chapter, and for continuing to be your local lending wing woman.
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52 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
SCHOOL ENROLMENT
JOIN THE
TE HIHI SCHOOL COMMUNITY!
A place where everyone can Shine Bright!
Te Hihi School (Out of Zone) Enrolments - 2027 The board invites applications for enrolments at Te Hihi School for 2027. Enrolment at the school is governed by an enrolment scheme, details and online application forms are available on our website www.tehihi.school.nz Out of Zone applications close on Monday 12th October 2026. Families who live within the home zone should also apply by this date to assist the school in planning for next year. If you want to see what we are all about, come along to our annual Ag Day, Saturday 26th September. Out of Zone places available in 2027 are: Year 1 = 5 places Year 2 = 3 places Year 3 = 6 places Year 6 = 5 places If the number of out of zone applications exceeds the number of places available, students will be selected by ballot on 16th October.
tehihi.school.nz
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09 292 7706
EDUCATION
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 53
Bright idea, bright kids? L
ocal schools are among the first 500 nationwide set to benefit from the Solar on Schools programme. Recipients in the Franklin Times coverage area are: Tuakau College, Mangatawhiri School, Patumahoe Primary, Pukekohe High School, Ramarama School, Kereru Park Campus and Glenbrook School. The $30 million initiative, announced as part of Budget 2026, will lead to long-term savings, Education Minister Erica Stanford expects. “By generating more clean, renewable energy on school rooftops, we can cut schools’ electricity use from the grid, reduce emissions and lower power bills at the same time,” she says. “Large schools are expected to save around $8000 a year on average on electricity, freeing up money that can be spent on teaching and learning.” The initial 500 have been chosen based on various factors regarding need – because they have higher energy costs, are scheduled for gas or diesel boiler replacements, or require greater energy resilience.
Stock image Some will also receive energy management systems and batteries, wherever they’re expected to deliver the greatest savings and community benefits. Solar panels will be installed at the schools during the next three years. The programme makes use of existing buildings, reducing schools’ environmental footprints as well
as helping them keep more money in their budgets, Stanford adds. “It will give students a realworld example of renewable
energy in action, right there at their own school,” she adds. “This is a smart, practical investment in our schools and New Zealand’s future.”
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54 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
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EDUCATION
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 55
PRINCIPAL IN PERSON with Roger Goulstone, Valley School How long have you been an educator, and where did you train? I started my training at Auckland Teachers College in 1985, so I have been in primary teaching for a long time. During my training I drove trucks, worked in glasshouses, and was a territorial soldier. I have also been a volunteer fire fighter, soccer coach and referee, member of the Pukekohe Performing Arts and a Justice of the Peace. Working in schools is a life of giving back. When did you become principal of Valley School? I started as principal in 1995 after three years as principal at Paparimu School. That gives me 34 years leading schools. Prior to that, I had various roles in South Auckland schools. I have also been very fortunate in watching my four children and two of my grandchildren become Valley kids. What’s the best thing about being an educator and principal? The kids. Helping them achieve, helping them grow as people, helping them
BRU GOLDFINCH Ph: 021 215 8368 E: bru@homesbynest.nz www.homesbynest.nz
Roger Goulstone become confident in their abilities, has always been about the kids. To grow great kids in a school you need great staff, and I have had the pleasure of working alongside amazing people at Valley School over the years. What’s special about Valley School? We have great kids, great staff, and great parents. We all work together to make learning enjoyable and make Valley a safe second home. Our school rules are simple: Let teachers teach, let stu-
dents learn, show respect to each other, and make school a safe place. Our motto is “Ko te Mahi Tona Ake Utu, Effort Brings Reward.” Is there anything you’d like improved in the education/school management sector? I have been in education for a long time and seen multiple curriculum changes by multiple governments who all think they know best. The result is that every few years we go round in circles with major change. My wish
would be to get all political parties in the same room, with all the professional education groups, and come up with one education strategy and policy that is agreed to by all parties. Then all political parties must agree to stick to it without turning education into a political vote catching football. I have seen so much wasted time and energy over the years with every government having the next best idea and turning schools on their heads to make often meaningless change. We are only going to make real, sustained progress when we have cross party agreement in education. How is the relationship between Valley School and its immediate local community? We are part of the community and the community is part of us. We have a strong Board of Trustees and a strong PTA helping us achieve and grow. Our parents share and support our strong desire to find success for our kids every day. We are so fortunate that our parents do the very best they can to send us kids who are ready to learn each day.
, e home h t e t a e s’ ‘We cr emorie m e h t ate you cre
OUR PEOPLE
56 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Q&A
with
SARAH CORSON OF PAINGA PROJECT Painga Project is a charity that helps kids of low-decile schools with things like reading glasses, hearing aids, school lunches and supplies. HELENA O’NEILL talks with Sarah Corson about how they support Kiwi kids. When and why did the Painga Project come into being? Painga Project was created in 2019 to support low-decile south Auckland schools with equity at the school gate. The simple belief that all children should have the same opportunities regardless of the school they go to. Our work began by finding out what Papakura school principals needed and then creating connections and support to make it happen. For example, we began by purchasing two 10-seater vans to provide transport for Papakura schools as it’s hard to see what you can be and explore the world if you can’t get beyond the school gate. Togs and towels for swimming lessons were a simple help to ensure all children could participate in swimming lessons
rather than sitting on the side of the pool watching. We also began making lunches for a couple of schools as children were coming to school hungry. We have now developed a comprehensive in school hearing and vision screening system with complete follow up and support. Providing an audiology pathway for grommets, ear infections and hearing aids and fully funded glasses for vision.
How long have you been with the Painga Project, and what do you do? I co-founded Painga Project back in 2019, and I lead a small team of amazing innovators as we look to create vision and hearing systems that work for our children.
Can you tell me about Celia?
Celia gets ger name from social justice advocate Celia Lashlie, and she is a mobile optometry clinic designed to be able to dispense over 6000 sets of prescription glasses per school year. With the volume of screening, we are able to do what we knew that we had to; create, build and deliver a mobile clinic that was designed to operate efficiently and effectively within a school day.
What campaign have you launched with her? Celia provides our full optometry solution after we have completed vision screening. When we first visit a school, we screen the entire school and then after that we continue to come back to pick up new entrants and then we screen again in year 6. Children then have a full optometry appointment on
OUR PEOPLE
Celia and select the type of frame that suits them, and then the frame is matched to their prescription and delivered back to NZ by OneSight. We then fit the glasses and provide any ongoing follow up.
How many schools are involved with the Painga Project, and how far south? We currently work with 53 of the 98 highest equity index primary and intermediate schools in Auckland, and we extend out to Port Waikato, Mercer, Kaiaua, Tuakau and Waiuku. We have also just completed a preschool pilot with 16 Whanau Manaaki Kindergartens in Levin and Porirua so that we can better understand preschool vision and Celia has just spent three weeks in Wellington providing full eye exams to these kindergartens. We also
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 57
took the opportunity to spend a day at the Wellington City Mission and with WellFed in Porirua screening and providing optometry appointments for adults.
How many children have you screened since launching? We have screened over 25,000 children, and in 2025 we screened over 9000 students as our project expanded.
How is the Painga Project funded? Our glasses frames and lenses are funded by OneSight, Celia was funded by the Ted Manson Foundation and the equipment on her was funded by the Buchanan Foundation. We continue to look for funding to allow us to fully resource Celia so that she can operate more days of the week.
How can the community support the Painga Project? We would love to get the community to support Celia so that she can be on the road in schools more often. A $20 donation via our Givealittle page pays for a child to have their vision screened, and $80 funds a full optometry appointment on Celia along with a set of prescription glasses. All of this is within the school day. Then there are larger needs, such as funding our optometrists. We would love to talk with anyone who is interested in helping us cover these ongoing operational costs. www.paingaproject.co.nz givealittle.co.nz/org/the-painga-project
Sarah Corson, co-founder of Painga Project. Photo supplied
closer Friends, nearby Travel, easier Grandkids, closer Dog, happier Coffee, shared Life, fuller
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58 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
People come to Metlifecare’s Open Days for all sorts of reasons. Whatever your reason, we’re open. Open Day Saturday 22 Aug 10am–2pm metlifecare.co.nz
HEALTH & WELLBEING
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 59
DAFFODIL RALLY READY TO ROLL By ISABELLA ROOT Breast cancer survivor Jodi Tomlin knows firsthand why the Cancer Society’s work matters so much to so many. The Ararimu local, secretary of the Auckland Vintage Car Club and captain of the Auckland branch’s Daffodil Rally for Cancer, is combining her love for vintage vehicles with a cause close to home. The rally will run on August 30 (from 10am to 2pm), two days after Daffodil Day, at the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple in Flat Bush. “Cancer touches everybody somehow. Even if it’s a friend who has it, you’re still being touched by it,” Tomlin says. “We just hope that one day, thanks to all of our fundraising, we can go ‘tick, we’ve done it, we’re rid of cancer,’ or that we’ve found [more or better] ways to treat it.” Tomlin’s cancer was detected in 2020 through
a routine mammogram. Without the screening, she says her tumour would likely have gone unnoticed for another couple of years. “What was a Covid-19 year for everybody else, 2020, was also a breast cancer year for me,” Tomlin says. Now cancer-free, she takes every opportunity to encourage others to stay on top of their health checks. She is also encouraging locals to head along to the rally so that they can help the Cancer Society in its fight. This year’s Daffodil Rally for Cancer will include much more than a static display of classic and vintage vehicles. Hoping to draw in more people, Tomlin has invited schools to perform kapa haka and other traditional dances, adding to the community feel of the event.
“The temple’s youth group is going to perform a couple of dance routines, so there’s a few extra things that will appeal other than just the vehicles,” she says. A crowd favourite will also be making an appearance – a 1915, 12-seater bus, which is already well known from other events including Christmas parades. Visitors will be able to take a ride. For Tomlin, every dollar raised and every conversation started is a step towards a future where fewer lives are affected by cancer.
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60 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
The joy of calling Franklin Village home Carolyn never expected to fall in love with retirement village living. Today, she says moving to Franklin Village is one of the best decisions she’s ever made.
“I wake up sometimes and pinch myself. I’m so lucky. It feels like home. It gives me joy.” It’s not the sort of thing Carolyn expected to be saying when she first visited Franklin Village. Like many people, she wasn’t actively looking for retirement village living. But from the moment she stepped inside one of the villas, something just felt right. Today, Carolyn enjoys everything Franklin Village has to offer. A beautifully designed home, exceptional amenities, and most importantly, a warm and welcoming community she loves being part of. Whether she’s catching up with neighbours, spending time with family, or enjoying everything from movies to pool and darts,
Carolyn has found a place where she can truly enjoy life on her own terms. For Carolyn, Franklin Village isn’t just where she lives. It’s a place that puts a smile on her face every day. To find out more about Franklin Village contact Angela today. 44 McNally Road, Pukekohe, Auckland franklinvillage.co.nz 09 269 0760 *For residents 70 years and above. Villas are sold under a license to occupy.
HEALTH & WELLBEING
CANCER A GAMECHANGER By ISABELLA ROOT It’s not a sentence we may expect to hear from someone who was told he didn’t have long left to live: “The most enlightening thing that happened in my life was getting cancer,” Awhitu’s John Triggs says.
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 61
Don’t be scared of the finger GOOD NEWS: MOST CHECKS NOW START WITH JUST A SIMPLE BLOOD TEST. LET’S BUST A FEW MYTHS. FAMILY MESSAGE
“Do it for you. Do it for the people who need you around.” Your partner. Your kids. Your mates. Five minutes could mean a few more decades with all of them.
KEY STAT
Cancer was a curveball that took Triggs off the golf course, but ultimately, it helped him find his way back.
4,000+ Kiwi men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year in NZ — that’s 300+ every single month. It’s our most commonly diagnosed cancer in men.
In 2011, he was diagnosed with thyroid cancer when a tumour was discovered in his neck.
MYTH VS FACT
“I’d never bloody heard of a thyroid,” he says. “Then, the doctor sat me down and said, ‘John, you’ve got eight weeks left’.” Fortunately, surgery was an option. Although scans and blood tests eventually confirmed he was cancer-free, his recovery was far from over. Triggs spent the next five years battling fatigue and chronic pain, leaving him unable to play golf, a sport he had loved since childhood, or even simply swing a club. “There was a time when you’d have to rip my arm off to stop me from playing golf,” he says. “But my hands were too sore, I had no coordination and I just felt like a basket case. I went home despondent but thought there must be a solution to this.” Triggs turned to natural health options, drawing on a background in holistic health businesses including Abeeco, which specialises in health supplements using bee pollen. With the addition of breathing techniques and a daily exercise routine, he was soon back on course. Now, Triggs is sharing some of the techniques that helped him regain his strength while also coaching at the Awhitu Golf Club. Wellbeing, he says, extends beyond hospitals and golf courses. “Every morning I do breathing exercises for half an hour and it’s a fantastic half an hour,” he adds. “Anything that creates brotherhood or sisterhood in any way is good for you and important in life.” August 28 is Daffodil Day. To help the Cancer Society help others, such as John Triggs, visit daffodilday.org.nz.
7 “You need ‘the finger’ to get checked.” 3 Most checks start with just a simple blood test — done with your regular bloods. 7 “If they do the physical exam, it’ll be really painful.” 3 It takes about 10 seconds. Awkward, maybe. Painful, no. 7 “Only old blokes need to worry.” 3 Risk climbs from age 50 — earlier if it runs in the family. 7 “No symptoms means no problem.” 3 Early prostate cancer is often silent. That’s exactly why checking matters. 7 “It’s going to be a big, awkward conversation.” 3 Your GP talks about this stuff every day. To them, it’s as routine as checking your blood pressure. 7 “I’ll get a letter telling me when it’s time to get checked.” 3 NZ doesn’t have a national screening programme. Nobody’s chasing you up — it’s on you and your GP to start the conversation. 7 “I’d feel it if something was wrong.” 3 Early-stage prostate cancer usually has zero symptoms. That’s exactly why a proactive check catches things waiting around wouldn’t.
“It starts with one simple blood test.”
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
62 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
THE MOST DANGEROUS SENTENCE IN NEW ZEALAND By MIKE KING, founding
suddenly we hear: “They’re just doing it for attention.”
In my line of work, I hear a lot of things that concern me. Young people who feel worthless. Parents who don’t know how to help. Teachers watching children carry burdens far heavier than they should. But there’s one sentence I hear over and over again that worries me more than most: “They’re just doing it for attention.”
But what’s so wrong with wanting attention? Every one of us seeks it. Children need comfort and reassurance. Adults seek approval from friends, family and colleagues. We share our successes and tell our stories because human beings are wired for connection. We all need to know that somebody sees us, hears us and believes we matter.
ambassador, I Am Hope Foundation
It sounds harmless, and most people who say it aren’t trying to be cruel. The problem is that we use it to dismiss someone’s pain rather than understand it. Once we label someone an attention seeker, we give ourselves permission to stop asking what might actually be driving their behaviour. Think about it. If a child breaks their arm and cries, we don’t accuse them of wanting attention. We recognise that something is wrong and respond. Yet emotional pain is different. A teenager starts acting out, posts something concerning online, talks about self-harm or becomes disruptive at school, and
So, when a young person desperately seeks attention, perhaps the question shouldn’t be: “How do we stop this behaviour?” Perhaps it should be, “What are they trying to tell us?” Through Gumboot Friday, I’ve spoken to thousands of young people. I’ve met plenty who felt invisible, unheard or simply didn’t have the words to explain what was happening inside them. Many had tried being quiet, coping alone and pretending everything was okay. Sometimes what we call attention seeking is what happens when everything else has failed.
That doesn’t mean every behaviour is acceptable or that boundaries disappear. It means we should be curious before we are judgemental. The disruptive child may have chaos at home. The angry teenager may be terrified or lonely. The concerning social media post may be someone desperately hoping another person notices. When we dismiss people as attention seekers, we stop looking for the reason behind their behaviour. And when we stop looking, we stop listening. That’s why “They’re just doing it for attention” may be one of the most dangerous sentences in New Zealand. Sometimes the attention they’re seeking isn’t the problem. It’s the solution. What looks like a cry for attention may actually be a cry for help. Under 25 and need someone to talk to? Book a free counsellor at gumbootfriday.org.nz – no GP referral needed.
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
ARE YOU LIVING with CHRONIC PAIN?
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 63
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Are you one of the one in five Kiwis who experience chronic pain? Maybe you’ve had an injury at some point, and afterwards the pain never completely went away, or perhaps you have pain without a known source or cause. Chronic, or persistent, pain, is pain that goes on for more than three months – it can even last your whole life. It might come and go, or it might be there all the time, but either way, it can be exhausting. It drains your energy, disrupts your sleep, and can interfere with you doing the things you want to do. It’s important to see your doctor as there may be something going on that needs treatment, but sometimes, no cause can be found. Your body can get stuck in a pain response, like a faulty loop that keeps triggering for no apparent reason. Whether it’s headaches, joint pain, or conditions like fibromyalgia or long Covid, there are a few things you can try to help manage persistent pain. It can often feel like you just want to curl up and rest, but although rest is important (make sure you’re getting enough sleep), so is movement. Inactivity can make chronic pain worse, so include gentle movement when you can – little and often is the trick. A 10-minute walk or some gentle yoga when you can manage it will be really helpful in the long run. Of course, if you’re having a pain flare, some days that may not be possible, but do what you can when you’re feeling up to it. Resistance training has also been proven to be helpful. Lifting weights a few times a week, at the gym or at home, or trying a Pilates class on equipment with spring resistance will build strength, build and retain muscle mass, and improve joint mobility and strength too. Move mindfully, with good form, and listen to your body – stop before you feel completely wiped out. Meditation, whether guided or self-led, is another modality that’s been shown to help with managing chronic pain. It doesn’t make it go away, but it can help regulate your nervous system and change the experience so that you feel more in control and less overwhelmed by your pain. While long-term pain can feel frustrating, it can be manageable, as long as you put tools and strategies in place to look after yourself. www.michellekeenan.com
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64 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
WATTLE DOWNS NORTH PATH Looking for a different view of the Manukau Heads? Try heading north to Wattle Downs and walking the Wattle Downs North Path, a popular shared path along the beautiful northern coastline of the Wattle Downs peninsula. The path connects Aberdeen Crescent and Bluewater Place via the picturesque Reremoana/Wattle Downs Esplanade Reserve. The suggested starting point is at Iwinuku Crescent (off Aberdeen Crescent), where you can find a car park. You can also do the path in reverse, starting at Bluewater Place.
This route is a local favourite. Enjoy meeting locals who are out and about walking their dogs and relaxing with their families. Around the halfway point, there is a playground at Reremoana/Wattle Downs Esplanade Reserve (Aberdeen Crescent section, around 20 metres off the track). It is a perfect spot to take a break with your underfives and grab a bite to eat.
The path is paved and mainly flat, with a few hills along the way. It is family friendly and suitable for pushchairs and bikes. Remember to give way as the track can be busy at times!
Bear in mind that there are no public toilets along the route. The nearest public toilets are located in the Wattle Down Farm Reserve, several hundred metres from Bluewater Place (the start and finish point of the pathway).
Enjoy beautiful views of the coast and Manukau Heads. Look out for wading birds like the torea (oystercatcher) and the whitefaced heron.
At Aberdeen Crescent, you can extend your journey to the Wattle Downs South Path by riding a short 400m on-road section on quiet residential streets. The fully paved path
is mostly flat with a few small hills. It’s a favourite with local families and is suitable for all ages and abilities. The track is suitable for pushchairs and bikes – and there is a small playground at Papakiri/Saint Annes Foreshore at the southern end for kids to let off some steam. • Wattle Downs North Path walk starts at 5 Iwinuku Crescent, Wattle Downs. • Wattle Downs South Path walk starts at 27 Frangipani Avenue, Manurewa.
BEAUTY
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 65
WHERE SHOULD MY BLUSH ACTUALLY GO? By SARAI ELORA, Bonita Artistry Blush can be one of the simplest steps in your makeup routine, but where you place it can completely change the finished look. Scroll through social media and you’ll see plenty of rules: apply it high to lift your face, keep it away from the centre, follow your face shape, or sweep it across your nose for that sun-kissed finish.
colour. Makeup doesn’t always need to look natural to look beautiful.
Your face shape is a guide, not a rule You’ll often see tutorials telling you exactly where blush “should” sit depending on whether your face is round, oval, square or heart shaped.
Placement changes the effect
Understanding your facial structure can help you predict what different placements might do. Higher placement can create the appearance of lift, while colour concentrated through the apples brings more attention to the centre of the face.
Blush doesn’t just add colour. Where you place it changes where the eye is drawn and how your features appear.
But that doesn’t mean you need to use makeup to make your face appear slimmer, longer or more “balanced”.
If you love a lifted, sculpted look, try placing blush higher along the cheekbones and blending towards the temples. Keeping the colour away from the centre of the face can create more definition.
Instead, ask yourself: What do I want my makeup to feel like today?
you more control and creates a seamless, skin-like finish.
Soft? Sculpted? Romantic? Fresh? Bold?
Then experiment. Place your blush slightly higher one day. Another time, bring it further onto the apples. Or try sweeping it across your nose or towards your temples.
But as professional makeup artists, we see blush differently. There isn’t one “correct” place to put it.
For something soft, fresh and youthful, bring your blush onto the apples of your cheeks, then softly diffuse the edges, so the colour melts naturally into your skin.
Let that answer guide your placement.
Build and experiment One of our favourite professional tricks is to build blush gradually. Pick up a small amount, tap off any excess, and begin with a light layer. You can always add more.
If you love that sun-kissed, just-been-outside feeling, sweep a little blush across the cheeks and lightly over the bridge of the nose. The result feels less sculpted and more relaxed, warm and playful.
For cream or liquid formulas, try working the product into your brush first rather than placing a large amount directly onto your cheek. This gives
For something more expressive, take your blush higher towards the temples or experiment with stronger
FILL IN THE BLANKS
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It’s the one that creates the version of you that you want to see in the mirror that day. Makeup should give you tools to express yourself, not another set of rules to follow. For more professional beauty education, makeup tips and personalised makeup lessons, follow @bonitartistry or explore bonitartistry.co.nz/makeup-packages for our Makeup Your Way lessons.
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
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Because the best blush placement isn’t necessarily the one that makes your face look slimmer, younger, or more lifted.
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CROSSWORD
66 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
This week’s Community Hero is
Stuart Graham
COMMUNITY
The Franklin Times is recognising the many wonderful people in our community who go out of their way to help others with our regular Community Hero award.
everyone by name. He’s a local legend.” Stuart Graham has been a patron of the Tuakau and Districts Museum for 25 years.
If you know someone who’s doing amazing things in our community, please email 80 to 100 words describing why they deserve this recognition, highlighting specific actions they’ve taken to benefit our community, with your and their contact details and a high-resolution photo of them, if possible, to editor@franklintimes.co.nz. Be sure to include details about what they’ve been doing, the impact they’ve made, and how long they’ve been involved in these efforts.
This week’s recipient is Stuart Graham, nominated by Sarah Cooper, who writes: “Stu is in his 80s and still gets up every morning to go around Tuakau to paint out graffiti! He also does all the planting and upkeep of the park gardens at Centennial Park in Tuakau, all paid for with his own pension.
The award is sponsored by Little Ed Pukekohe. Recipients will receive a $50 Little Ed voucher and will be featured in our newspaper and on our website. As we are moving to publishing fortnightly, we will have a Community Hero in each edition of the newspaper.
“He’s always smiling and remembers
NOMINATE A
Know someone making a difference? Nominate them to win a $50 Little Ed voucher! Two local heroes will be chosen each month let’s celebrate the everyday legends in our community! SCAN HERE
COMMUNITY
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 67
MY LOCAL: WHANGAR ATA COMMUNIT Y HALL Nearly halfway between Tuakau and Pokeno is the Whangarata Community Hall. The hall was originally the Whangarata School, built in 1926 to replace the first school building, which burned to the ground in 1925. The school officially closed its doors on December 18, 1969. Sandra Brasell was the third generation in her family to attend Whangarata School, leaving the year before the school closed. “Mangere Intermediate used the old school as an outdoor education camp for several years before it became a community hall. We had a school reunion here in 1997, and I like to have a selection of photos from the school’s history on display inside the hall. “The community here has changed so much over the years, and a lot of newer residents won’t even know the hall is here.”
Outside the hall sits a granite obelisk monument, unveiled on September 15, 1924, in what was then the Whangarata School grounds. It serves as a First World War memorial inscribed with a roll of honour featuring 55 names, including 14 local servicemen who fell in action. “It’s a beautiful setting here, incredibly peaceful.” The council-owned, community-run 152 square metre hall has a capacity of 50 people for indoor events and has four toilets and kitchen facilities. The hall is clad in weatherboard with a corrugated iron roof. The asphalt area where school children used to play netball, padder tennis, and other outdoor games is still there, and the Waikato District
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Council replaced the water tanks in recent years. “I’d love to see some more maintenance work carried out in the hall. The windows need re-putting, the kitchen facilities are tired, and the chairs need replacing. As a council-owned but community-run facility, it can be hard to get funding for this type of work.” Whangarata Community Hall is used every Sunday by a Tongan church, with other bookings primarily children’s birthday parties or milestone birthdays, she says. Hall bookings can be made by contacting Sandra Brasell on 027 408 4027 or at k-sbrasell@xtra.co.nz or Ian Johnson on 027 289 3330 or ianjohn@xtra.co.nz.
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ARTS & CULTURE
68 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
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ARTS & CULTURE
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 69
WORKING – HOLLIDAY By KERRY LEE Local artist, Jessica Holliday recently exhibited at the Auckland Art Show for the first time. She says the show (July 31 to August 2) was an amazing experience. “The show was a great success for me. I sold six original paintings, which I was absolutely thrilled with,” she told the Times. “Beyond the sales, one of the biggest highlights was meeting so many people who connected with my work and hearing the stories behind why particular pieces resonated with them. The show also introduced my art to a much wider audience, and I’ve had a lot of lovely support, inquiries and new followers since.”
Jessica Holliday. Photo supplied
absolutely love to take part again next year. It’s given me a lot of encouragement and excitement about where my art is heading.”
working part-time, but this year I’ve finally found the courage to do it full time.”
After attending events in the past, Holliday took the plunge and entered her work.
Holliday has a lifelong love of art despite some challenges.
A mixed media artist blending realism and abstraction, Holliday often takes inspiration from Auckland Botanic Gardens.
“It’s such an amazing event. There are some great artists who are focused on making art for everybody, so it’s an accessible place where artists can get their foot in the door – that was my main reason for entering,” she explains.
“I found out I was dyslexic when I was at school, I figured that my brain works quite differently, much better with pictures, so I was always doodling and drawing,” she recalls.
“I’m originally from South Africa, so I have a lot of proteas in my work, but I’ve also been living in New Zealand for 30 years, so I include native birds and plants too.”
“Art has always been a part of my life, as a hobby and I’ve earned commissions while
For more information about Holliday and her work, visit jhollidayart.com.
“Overall, it was definitely worthwhile and I’d
70 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
IMAGINATION RUNS WILD By KERRY LEE Wild horses couldn’t drag Jan Maree Vodanovich away from New Zealand’s Kaimanawa wild horses. In her new book – titled Heart and Soul – A Kaimanawa Story, the Tuakau local shares photos she has taken of these wonderful animals. “My hope was never simply to photograph beautiful horses,” she says. “Heart and Soul is part documentary, part visual and partly a personal journey. It follows the lives of individual horses in the wild, the annual muster that protects both the herd and the fragile environment. [It also includes] the remarkable transformation of horses such as Porthos, a wild band stallion whose journey from freedom through muster to trust and partnership became the emotional heart of the book.” Vodanovich says she has been “horse mad” since childhood while also being interested in photography and writing – in her new book, she combines all three interests in one.
Jan Maree Vodanovich with her latest book, Heart and Soul. Photo supplied “When the first musters started, there were no photographers allowed in the [Kaimanawa] Ranges,” she says. “But, almost 20 years ago, I was the first photographer there. One of the pilots took the door off the helicopter and took me up to take photos of the horses from the air. Seeing the horses out in the wild is incredibly humbling.” Vodanovich held an exhibition last month
to promote her book. She now intends to develop a new series of sculptures of horses made from recyclable material for another exhibition titled Herd. “Herd is going to be 50 pieces and the idea is for it to tour New Zealand and possibly overseas as well,” she adds. “A herd is never just a collection of horses, it’s a family. Every horse matters because every horse belongs.”
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FEAST IN FRANKLIN
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 71
WINTER FARE – SOUP’S YOU? Few meals are as comforting on a cold winter’s day as a steaming bowl of hot soup. What’s more, while they warm the body, certain soups can also provide valuable nutrients to help stave off (or fight) colds.
which the body converts into vitamin A to support immune health. Tomato soup provides vitamin C and the antioxidant lycopene, while vegetable soup combines a variety of vitamins, minerals and fibre to help maintain overall wellbeing.
Chicken soup has long been regarded as the go-to remedy when illness strikes and there is some solid science behind this. While it’s not a cure, it can help ease symptoms and provide nourishment when appetites are low.
Lentil and bean soups are another excellent choice. Rich in plant protein, fibre, iron and zinc, they help support immune function. Pea and ham soup offers protein along with slowrelease carbohydrates.
The combination of chicken, vegetables and broth provides protein, vitamins and minerals that help the body recover and stay strong. Chicken is also rich in protein, which supports tissue repair and immune function, while vegetables, such as carrots, celery and onions, supply vitamins A and C along with antioxidants. A warm broth also helps maintain hydration.
The steam from hot soup of any variety can help loosen mucus and temporarily relieve nasal congestion, making it easier to breathe. Other soups offer similar health benefits. Pumpkin soup is packed with beta-carotene,
Mushroom soup, particularly when made with varieties such as shiitake or button mushrooms, contains nutrients including selenium and B vitamins that contribute to normal immune system function. While chicken soup is an excellent choice, every variety can deliver important nutritional benefits, especially important during winter.
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DINING
72 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
MADE WITH LOVE… AND NOODLES By KERRY LEE When Wannarin (Lyn) Kamkwa came to New Zealand, she brought a secret weapon – a recipe that’s more than 100 years old. The recipe, for Thai noodle soup, has been in Kamkwa’s family for generations. “It was passed down from my greatgrandmother to my grandma, then to my mother who sold the soup on the streets of Bangkok,” she says. The soup’s local connections don’t stretch back quite as far, but it is has been here for a quarter of a century. When Kamkwa came to New Zealand in 2001 she started her business, Kamkwa Authentic Thai Street Food, and began selling the soup at markets in Clevedon and Beachlands. During winter, demand for her soup is especially high, often fueled by word of mouth. “It’s become very popular. People come from all over Auckland just to try the noodle soup. We have to keep making more and more as we keep selling out too early!”
Although the complete recipe remains a family secret, Kamkwa is happy to share some details, all essential for making the soup just as her great-grandmother used to make it back in Thailand. “We make our own handmade meatballs, rice noodles are used and most of the ingredients in the soup come from Asia, including
A Taste of Tradition.
Inspired by our beloved Grandmother, whose recipes and spices live on in every dish we proudly serve today. The India Restaurant – serving from the heart.
galangal (similar to ginger), pandan leaves, star anise, coriander seeds, palm sugar and cinnamon sticks,” she reveals. “The [broth] is made with pork bones, cooked slowly for at least 24 hours. It is a long process, but it’s worth the effort because people really appreciate it, and that makes me happy too.”
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DINING
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 73
PLATE EXPECTATIONS… Papakura has been setting the table while welcoming guests from throughout Auckland and beyond. A new initiative by the Papakura Business Association, backed by the Papakura Local Board, Plate Up Papakura (on now, until August 31) is intended to celebrate the flavours of south Auckland. “Initiatives such as Plate Up Papakura are key to revitalising the region [by] celebrating the incredible cultural diversity that we’re so proud of here in south Auckland,” local board chair, Kelvin Hieatt says. “Locals have always known there’s something special cooking out here, and it’s about time Chef Anna we share the Nguyen, Viet Soul. best parts of Photo supplied our suburb with the rest of Auckland.”
This veritable smorgasbord is spanning 14 eateries, showcasing a colourful array of cuisine. From Turkish, Japanese, Vietnamese, Malaysian and Nepalese to Tex-Mex, there is much on the menu. Participating eateries include Broke Boy Taco, Viet Soul, Satay Noodle House, Red Earth, and The Beer Spot. The celebration is part of a wider initiative to reinvigorate Papakura’s food scene along Great South Road, attracting diners from surrounding regions to local tables due to the calibre of hospitality, entertainment and, of course, the food. Owner and well-known head
chef at the award-winning Broke Boy Taco, Sean Yarbrough, says Plate Up is a gamechanger. “There are so many creative, talented food vendors out here, it’s crazy! Ponsonby and Sandringham are great too, but if you want real global flavours literally in your backyard, Papakura’s the place.” Additional information is accessible via PlateUpPapakura.co.nz.
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FOOD
74 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
SMALL WAYS TO MAKE EVERYDAY MEALS TASTE EVEN BETTER ROA ST OYSTER SHOULDER OF L AMB Slow roasted until it’s so tender you can almost pull it apart, oyster shoulder is one of the most underrated cuts of lamb. The onions roast underneath the lamb, soaking up all those flavours and becoming the perfect base for a rich lamb gravy.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 lamb oyster shoulder (approximately 1.2 to 1.4kg) • 3 to 4 medium brown onions, peeled and cut into thick slices
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil • Finely grated zest of 1 orange • 2 Tbsp Gault’s Moroccan Seasoning • Salt (I use Murray River Salt)
METHOD
Remove lamb from fridge 1 hour before cooking. Preheat oven to 160°C. Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil into a roasting dish; season lightly with salt and Moroccan Seasoning. Arrange onion slices in a single layer, scatter with orange zest, drizzle with remaining oil and season with salt and remaining Moroccan Seasoning. Rub lamb with remaining oil; season both sides generously with salt and remaining Gault’s Moroccan Seasoning. Place fat side up on onions. Roast uncovered 2½-3 hours, until the thickest part reaches 92-95°C. Rest uncovered on a cake rack over a plate for 20-30 mins. Add onions to Rich Lamb Gravy. Pull lamb from bone and slice or break into serving pieces. Serve with Rich Lamb Gravy.
SIMON SAYS Cook to temperature, not time. Oyster shoulders
vary in size, so use a meat thermometer and cook until the centre reaches 92-95°C for tender meat that still slices well. Rest for 10-20 minutes before carving. Leave the rendered fat in the roasting tray and build your gravy with the roasted onions. Leftovers are delicious in sandwiches, salads or gently reheated later.
Watch recipe video here! TASTE WITH GAULT gaultsdeli.co.nz
Great cooking isn’t always about complicated recipes or expensive ingredients. Often, a few simple tricks can turn an everyday meal into something much more memorable. Start with seasoning. Salt doesn’t just make food salty – used correctly, it brings out the natural flavours of other ingredients. Season gradually (or in layers) as you cook rather than adding a large amount at the end, and taste before serving. Acidity is another secret weapon. If a soup, sauce, or casserole tastes a little flat, it may not need more salt at all. A squeeze of lemon, splash of vinegar, or spoonful of mustard can instantly brighten the flavours. Fresh herbs are an easy finishing touch. Parsley, basil, coriander, mint and chives added just before serving bring freshness, colour and aroma. Even finely sliced spring onion can lift a simple weeknight dinner. Texture matters too. A handful of toasted nuts or seeds, crisp breadcrumbs or crunchy fried onions can make a soft or creamy dish far more interesting. Finally, don’t underestimate the value of a good finishing ingredient. A drizzle of quality olive oil, freshly grated parmesan, cracked pepper or a little chilli oil added at the table can make a surprisingly big difference. The best part is that none of these ideas requires hours in the kitchen. Keep a few flavour boosters in the pantry and fridge and you can make even the simplest midweek meal taste as though you’ve put in considerably more effort than you actually have.
ATTENTION FARMERS & LIFESTYLERS!
We operate a modern processing plant in South Auckland, handling Prime Steer & Heifer, Cull Cows, and Lamb year round. Contact one of our local Livestock Representatives below to discuss the options and benefits of processing with us. GUY MARRINER M: 0274 570 035 E: guy.marriner@hellaby.co.nz
MARK SHUKER M: 0274 981 272
LEISURE
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 75
WATCH
LISTEN
READ
WHAT WE ARE WATCHING
NOTEWORTHY PODCASTS
BEST NEW BOOKS
AGATHA CHRISTIE’S SEVEN DIALS Netflix England. 1925. At a lavish country house party, a practical joke appears to have gone horribly, murderously wrong. It will be up to the unlikeliest of sleuths – the fizzingly inquisitive Lady Eileen “Bundle” Brent (Mia McKenna-Bruce) – to unravel a chilling plot that will change her life, cracking wide open the country house mystery. A witty, epic and fastpaced drama from the Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie, is brought to life in a thrilling new version for Netflix.
NEW ZEALAND SPY TVNZ+ New Zealand's newest spies – and the only three who applied – are tasked with protecting our nation from incoming threats, most notably those noisy neighbours in Australia. Across six episodes, these unlikely candidates are thrust into espionage, fumbling through betrayal, romance, and escalating absurdity. Starring Rose Matafeo, Paul Williams, Bret McKenzie and Joe Thomas. Made with the support of NZ On Air.
MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE Prime Video Fifteen years after tracking down the Sword of Power, Adam (Nicholas Galitzine) is whisked back to his home planet of Eternia, now under Skeletor's rule. With Teela and Duncan at his side, he must unlock his true power, embrace his destiny as He-Man, and fight to reclaim his world and the people he loves.
CASE BY CASE (OPEN JUSTICE) Every case tells a story. But understanding what happens in court, a tribunal or disciplinary hearing, and why, can be just as important as the verdict or finding itself. Episode four: A Hamilton mother stole nearly $14,000 worth of vacuum cleaners, perfume, tools and other goods – sometimes simply filling a trolley and walking out. Jane Yee and Open Justice reporter Belinda Feek examine the case, the unusual refund trick she used, and why the judge gave her one final chance. Then, they look at the changing face of shoplifting in New Zealand: increasingly brazen bulk theft, online resale, growing violence against retail workers, facial recognition technology and the proposed expansion of citizens’ arrest powers. New episodes each Tuesday.
ALL IN HER HEAD When doctors can’t agree on a diagnosis, who is believed? Rachel was rapidly losing weight and struggling to eat. Some doctors believed she had a rare and debilitating condition requiring urgent surgery overseas. Others argued the evidence was weak, the diagnosis controversial, and the proposed treatment dangerous. They believed Rachel’s symptoms were psychological. As her health worsened, Rachel and her family became desperate. All In Her Head is a narrative investigative podcast with Anusha Bradley about EhlersDanlos syndrome (EDS), following Rachel’s search for answers through a maze of competing diagnoses and highstakes medical decisions.
ANOTHER DAY LIKE YESTERDAY, RRP $40 A collection of rollicking tales from Guy Clapshaw’s early days flying for Air New Zealand. Back in the mid-1960s, the airline had just begun to expand from Tasman Empire Airways, a tiny three-aeroplane regional airline into Air New Zealand, the international giant it is today. Set at a time when air travel wasn’t just another mode of transport, the book’s pages hum with larger-thanlife characters, tricky customers, sticky situations and laugh-out-loud scenarios.
GO HARD OR GO HOME: MY STORY, RRP $40 Kiri Allan’s memoir of ambition, disruption and survival in NZ politics and beyond. As a highly recognisable figure, Kiri’s overlapping personal story also played out under scrutiny: divorce, new parenthood, cancer diagnosis and treatment, and mental health struggles culminating in the car crash that led to her resignation. This is the story of the person beyond the headlines, from church-going child to charismatic hitchhiker to precocious law student to former politician.
CARL’S DOOMSDAY SCENARIO, RRP $38 Carl and Princess Donut have proven that a Coast Guard vet and once-andforever feline royalty are an almost unstoppable team. Their ratings are off the chart, and the watchers can’t get enough. But the dungeon gets more dangerous each day. They call this level the Over City – a sprawling, once-thriving metropolis devastated by a mysterious calamity. But these streets are far from abandoned. Can Carl and Donut survive this level in time?
What's on in Franklin
76 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Brought to you by the Rural and Lifestyle Sales Team Barfoot & Thompson Pukekohe | Tuakau | Pokeno
August/September 26
Blueprint Crews Championship
Healthy Home, Healthy Planet Expo
Saturday, August 22, 4pm to 8.30pm, Four Winds Theatre, Due Drop Events Centre, 770 Great South Road, Manukau
Sunday, August 23, 10am to 3pm, Pukeoware Hall, 480 Baldhill Road, Waiuku
Ironically, not many clues are needed to decipher what’s on at the Due Drop. The Blueprint Crew Championship brings together dance troupes to explore and share dance culture. Established by The Dance Collective in 2021, this contest features some of the best up-and-coming dancers, although for the most part they won’t be wearing blue suede shoes. For tickets or more information visit blueprintnz.co.nz.
Discover simple, practical ways to create a healthier home, save money, and reduce your environmental impact. This free community event brings together local organisations, businesses and experts to showcase everyday actions that make a real difference. The Expo is all about showing how small, achievable changes can add up to healthier homes, lower household costs, and a more resilient community.
Chicken Run 2 – Tailgates and Mates
Swinging 60s
Sunday, August 30, 11.30am to 3.30pm, 1799A Great South Road, Ramarama
Sunday, August 30, 2.30pm to 5pm, Crossroads Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Papakura
A relaxed community gathering for vehicle enthusiasts and families alike. Check out a variety of cars, enjoy the friendly atmosphere, and spend the afternoon connecting with fellow motoring fans. Whether you’re passionate about classic cars, modified vehicles, or simply enjoy a casual day out, this event is a great opportunity to admire unique vehicles and meet like-minded people in a welcoming setting.
Get ready to relive the soundtrack of the 1960s with South Auckland Choral. From irresistible pop tunes and soulful ballads to sunshinefilled harmonies and swinging favourites, this feel-good concert is packed with music that defined a generation. Tickets via Eventfinda. co.nz.
Ryan Young
Chris Hirini
Kim Neill
Brendon Moore
Ginny Cheyne
Glynn Findlay
Jason Tabrum
Lea-Ann Higgie
Luke Jupp
Mary-Louise Squire
Branch Manager
Assistant Manager
Rural Sales Manager
027 238 6660
021 405 462
027 800 0530
022 567 9662
021 497 517
021 160 8005
021 996 050
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 77
177 King Street
PLEASE NOTE: information regarding times & dates of these events was correct at the time this issue went to print. However, readers are advised to check events online for updates.
Scan me for more local events
PFCC Creative Focus Exhibition and Competition
WaiArt Art Show
Monday, August 24 to Saturday, September 5, Franklin Arts Centre, 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe
Friday, August 28 to Sunday, August 30, 10am to 4pm, Waiuku Library, 10 King Street, Waiuku
Come and enjoy the Papakura Franklin Camera Club’s exhibition, which also showcases the winning images from the national Creative Focus competition run by the club. The Franklin Arts Centre is open Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm, and Saturdays from 9.30am to 2.30pm. For further details, contact the club via creative-focus.co.nz.
Brought to you by WaiArt Group, with support from the Franklin Arts Centre, this community event celebrates the creativity and talent of local artists. Come along to browse a huge variety of artwork, meet artists, watch them at work, and perhaps find something special to take home.
Franklin County Archers Casino Night
Papakura Pipe Band’s Ceilidh
Saturday, September 5, 6.30pm to 9.30pm, 58 Station Road, Pukekohe
Saturday, September 5, 6.30pm to 11pm, Karaka War Memorial Hall, Cnr Linwood and Blackbridge Roads, Karaka
We are holding a fun casino night to fundraise for our archers who travel to overseas tournaments, and all funds raised will go towards supporting future travel to Australia, Hong Kong and beyond. Join us for three hours of casino fun, quick-fire raffles, archery giveaways, silent auctions, photo booth and more! More info: www. franklincountyarchers.com.
We’re back again for our annual ceilidh fundraiser, featuring Papakura Pipe Band, RSA Franklin Pipe Band, and The Barnstormers! Come along for a night of Scottish dancing, pipe bands, highland dancing, whisky toss and the famous haggis. Tickets available at: www. papakurapipeband.co.nz/ceilidh. Doors open from 6.30pm - very limited door sales (if any).
Neil Sharpe
Nicola McPherson
Payton Murphy
Rachael Rush
Ruby McPherson
Scott McElhinney
Sophie Boardman
Stephanie Alderlieste
Trudy Boyce
021 278 6006
021 247 6472
027 772 9866
022 088 4323
021 295 8473
027 210 8887
021 082 48134
027 246 7911
021 898 483
78 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
TOUGH ENOUGH?
SPORT Photos Susie Hare and Jo van der Gulik (PFCC)
When the going became tough, the tough kept going during the Junior Tough Guy & Gal Challenge. The recent event saw children, ages 3-8, who were not afraid to get their hands (and everything else!) dirty while tackling an obstacle course at Pukekohe Showgrounds. Susie Hare and Jo van der Gulik (Pukekohe Franklin Camera Club) were there to cover the event… from a safe distance!
SPORT
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 79
Murphy’s mind over matter By JON RAWLINSON
F
rom Franklin to Germany and Poland, local paddler, Finn Murphy is laying down the law, leaving the world in his wake. On August 26–30, he’s aiming to add to his laurels with a win at the ICF Canoe Sprint and Paracanoe World Championships. However, rather than keeping his eyes on the prize, Murphy has his sights set on the process. Last year, he won the B final on Lake Malta in Poznan, Poland and this time, he’s hoping for an even better result. “I’m definitely aiming for an improvement on last year, but my goal is just to execute my plan as well as I can. If so, then the results will take care of themselves,” he says. As previously covered in the Times, Finn knows how to win. He also claimed a silver medal at the Paracanoe World Cup in Brandenburg, Germany in May. In a way, mind over matter matters in this sport. “I’m confident the work I’ve done has put me in good stead to make something good happen. The World Cup changed my mindset. It gave me confidence and shifted my mentality around training and competing, but I also found the pressure I
Finn Murphy at May’s ICF Canoe Sprint and Paracanoe World Cup.
had been put on myself was actually inhibiting my performances,” he explains. “So, I’m approaching this next regatta as a learning experience. If I end up in medal contention, great, but I’m more focused on executing my race plan and getting closer to the perfect race.” All going well, this dedicated canoeist is already charting a course to the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. “Qualification for the Paralympics is dependent on how many points I accrue over the next two years. My second-place result in Brandenburg puts me in good stead but there are no guarantees,” he explains. “If I get a decent result in
Photo Canoe Racing NZ
Poznan, it takes the pressure off a bit, but definitely not enough to take my foot off the accelerator. The Paralympics is absolutely the pinnacle event for the sport, though. There is only one Paralympic champ every four years, so it really holds prestige over everything else.” Considering he is still relatively new to the sport, Murphy’s rise has been meteoric. Raised on a Tuakau lifestyle block, he picked up the paddle for paracanoe a few years ago after a motorbike accident. He made his international debut last year. Although he’s now taking on the world far from home, Murphy can depend on a vocal cheering section.
“My parents are flying over to watch and I’ll have my sister and all my best friends cheering me on from home. Every time I compete, I’m inundated with messages of support from people, so I definitely feel the love whenever I’m away.” All going well, when he does return home it will be with a gold medal in hand. He may not receive quite the Romanesque triumph accorded to another Franklin sportsman, but Murphy also credits a (near enough) local club with helping channel him towards success. “I haven’t rowed at the Mercer Rowing Club for 10 years now and rowing and kayaking don’t share too much aside from both being watersports, but the club was fundamental to my development as a young athlete and I’m incredibly grateful [for that].” he says. “As for a Ryan Fox-level reception, I think my dogs’ reaction to me returning will probably be as welcoming as his dogs’ was for him, and I’ll also be pretty keen to get hold of a meat pie when I get back, but that might be where the similarities end.” However, another similarity, winning, has already begun. Gold medals in Poland and even in LA should make sure they continue.
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SPORT
80 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Sports shorts… Who likes sports shorts? For those who like their sports brief – to the point, that is, not unnecessarily revealing! – we have a few short shots to share. If you think we’re not playing fair, and other teams deserve a mention, email editor@franklintimes. co.nz and he’ll look into them… the teams that is, not their shorts. Head-knocked Nick.
By HEAD-KNOCKED NICK HIGH HORSES Franklin’s reputation for producing some of the world’s best racehorses was taken to new heights recently. For the first time in more than a decade, Karaka-based New Zealand Bloodstock (NZB) Airfreight flew 15 thoroughbreds to Johannesburg earlier this month. “We’re delighted to get this route back up and running,” NZB’s Greg Northcott says. “The first load arrived safely and happy. It’s long haul, but this bunch of horses were very content passengers. “There has been a lot of work, time and communication between both countries over the last 18 months to get this flight off the ground.” NZB Airfreight has more than 60 years’ experience transporting horses around the world. The resumption of flights to South Africa ensures more Kiwi-bred horses will be able to compete in some of the sport’s biggest events.
FOXING ON It wasn’t the best weekend at the office for Ryan Fox, but as he secured an almost $50,000 pay cheque at the St Jude Championship in Memphis,
USA, it wasn’t a bad way to spoil a good walk either. Fox, who began playing at Whitford Golf Club, was in the swing of things again following his historic British Open win last month. Despite finishing tied for 58th at the St Jude Championship (August 13–16), he is still on course to make a first appearance at the PGA Tour Championship towards the end of the month. As this issue went to print, Fox was sitting safely at 24 in the rankings on the eve of the BMW Championship in St Louis. Following the BMW, the top 30 will advance to compete for all the marbles in Atlanta.
NZB has resumed airfreight of horses to South Africa. Photo supplied NZB
WIN... WIN! It’s rare that we can announce the winner of a competition before the final is played, but this Saturday, August 29, Maramarua will be the winner on the day... and runners-up. Placing first and second on the table, Maramarua 1 and Maramarua 2 will compete at the Pukekohe Netball Centre to decide which of the two squads will win the Premier Gold Grand Final. For details, as well as matchups across the grades, visit pukekohenetball.co.nz.
Ryan Fox during his recent homecoming.
Coaches, Managers, Parents — Let’s Celebrate Your Team! Have a great win, big performance, or top match to report? We’re keen to hear from coaches and managers across all codes. Send your results, short match reports, and photos to Franklin Times and help us celebrate local sport this winter.
Email editor@franklintimes.co.nz
Photo PJ Taylor, Times Media
Puzzled about Real Estate? www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 81 WE HAVE THE ANSWERS
PUZZLES
Puzzled about Real Estate? WE HAVE THE ANSWERS
PUZZLE TIME
PUKEKOHE
PUKEKOHE
FILL IN THE BLANKS FILL IN THE BLANKS NO. 8208
PUZUP PUZZLE NO. 15
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4 letters GOOD KNIT ONCE PAUL
HOW TO PLAY PUZUP® 5X5
• Use only the numbers 1-5, with each number appearing exactly five times. • Fill each outlined rectangle with a palindrome (the same number forwards and backwards i.e. 52425 or 1441). • The numbers in each rectangle must add up to the total shown on the edge of the grid. • No palindrome may be used more than once. • Each main diagonal must contain all five numbers (1-5) once. The centre square is shared by both diagonals and must be the same number. • Solution on page 65
4 LETTERS 5 letters 5 LETTERS Good Adams ADAMS Knit Adieu ADIEU Once Dance DANCE Paul Eaten EATEN Lumen LUMEN Newly NEWLY Ryder RYDER Serum SERUM
6 letters 6 LETTERS Active ACTIVE Allied ALLIED Compel COMPEL Eugene EUGENE
7 LETTERS Annette Aspects Enlarge Rations Special Swallow Turmoil Vesenny
FIND 6 DIFFERENCES
Scan me
The puzzles (a webapp) are available online by scanning the QR code and the books are available at Poppies in Howick. PUZUP is suitable for all ages, comes in three sizes, and three difficulty levels.
Use every word once. One or two starter letters are already shown.
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7 letters ANNETTE ASPECTS ENLARGE RATIONS SPECIAL SWALLOW TURMOIL VESENNY
PUZZLES
82 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
PUZZLE TIME CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8210
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1. Disposed of on Sunday (4). 7. The truth about strippers? (4,5). 8. The snow-drift has (4). 9. Volunteers to take the number one vehicle (4). 10. It’s a blow, pet! (4). 11. Walk, at the outset, softly (4). 14. Laughing isn’t, perhaps then is, irritating (2,8). 16. Does it streak up the chimney? (5,5). 19. Had been by ourselves again (4). 22. Among a number I notice outside (4). 24. Complain about the guide (4). 25. Encircle the arena (4). 26. And as a trick, put inside snakes (9). 27. Right - it’s back to prison! (4).
1. Sees back, but does no more (5). 2. That’s the way to catch cold, boy! (5). 3. The silly ass took the youth in cold food (6). 4. It’s a sign there’s something valuable in one (6). 5. Promise to change the hat band first (4). 6. A drink that won’t help someone starchy unbend? (9). 12. Handling the matter differently before the ten escaped (9). 13. Long for a nice, clean smell (4). 15. Cold, cut and eat (4). 17. Succeeding in giving the fellow a call (6). 18. Weird man I name “The Brute” (6). 20. Live in France and it’s about time to come back (5). 21. Keen to give the man a note to take back (5). 23. Nothing in the water (4).
5
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SUDOKU PUZZLE NO. 185
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QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8210 ACROSS
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1. Finished (4) 7. Go round (9) 8. Destiny (4) 9. Check (4) 10. Brood (4) 11. Part (4) 14. Pasta (10) 16. Shrub (10) 19. Bound (4) 22. Cast-off (4) 24. Platform (4) 25. Pudding (4) 26. Nationality (9) 27. Cure (4)
1. Bid (5) 2. Praise (5) 3. Relative (6) 4. Dish (6) 5. Shellfish (4) 6. Specify (9) 12. Despot (9) 13. Level (4) 15. Way out (4) 17. Colour (6) 18. Creature (6) 20. Senseless (5) 21. Amusing (5) 23. Depressed (4)
4 Puzzle answers on page 65
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POLITICS
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Franklin A & P Society Notice of Annual General Meeting 3pm, Sunday 30 August 2026 To be held at the offices of Franklin A & P Society, 58 Station Road, Pukekohe. Nominations for the positions of President, Senior Vice President, Junior Vice President and Executive Member must be received at the office prior to 3pm, Thursday 20 August 2026. Nomination forms are available from the Franklin A & P Society office.
Notice of herbicide use Waikato Regional Council advises that herbicide may be used on public and coastal reserves throughout the Waikato region from now until July 2027 for the control of exotic weeds as part of the Coastcare restoration programme. This includes (but is not limited to) the Port Waikato area. The work will be carried out by contractors in accordance with the Waikato Regional Plan. A spray plan is available on request. Herbicides which may be used, and their HSNO classes, include (but are not limited to): • Associate 600WDG: 6.3B, 6.4A, 9.1A, 9.2A • Conquest/Tordon Brushkiller: 3.1D, 6.1D, 6.3B, 6.4A, 6.5B, 6.9B, 9.1A, 9.2A, 9.3C • Dicamba 500SL: 6.1E, 6.3A, 6.4A, 6.9B, 9.1A, 9.2A, 9.3B, 9.4B • Gallant Ultra: 3.1D, 6.1D, 6.1E, 6.4A, 6.9B, 9.4B, 9.1A • Grazon: 6.1D, 6.3B, 6.4A, 6.5B, 6.9B, 9.1A, 9.2A, 9.3C • Weedmaster G360: 6.1D, 6.4A, 9.1B For more information, please call the Coastcare programme manager on 0800 800 401. waikatoregion.govt.nz/coastcare
U3a clubs keep ‘third agers’ learning, laughing and living U3a Franklin caters for people who are no longer working full time and would like to continue learning and living a life of interest? If this is you, then join us in your next stage of life. We are a group of people from all sectors of society, who meet to share our life skills and knowledge with other members through our wide range of interest groups: Art Appreciation, Aspects of NZ, Book Club, Classical Guitar, Current Affairs, Environmental Studies, Gallivanting, History, Literature Application, Mah Jong, Music Appreciation, Photography, Tech Talk, Transport, Traveler’s Tales, Trivial Pursuit and World Geography. These groups range in size from 8 to 20 members; then on the third Tuesday of every month, we get together at the Cosmopolitan Club, 9.45am to 11.45am, to socialise and
Organic House Cow Owners My family and I are looking to speak to someone who has reared a house cow on organic principles in the Franklin area or nearby. Please contact Martin Jelley on 022 492 9834 or martinjelleynz@gmail.com.
Franklin Historical Society The presentation at Franklin Historical Society’s meeting on 22 August will be by Kerrie Marks, a teacher at Pukekohe Intermediate School, on ‘‘The timeline of the Intermediate School”, starting with some description of the Pukekohe West School in the Paddock settlement on the side of Pukekohe Hill in the late 1800s, through to the move to the present Queen St site in the early 1900s, and to its shape today. More information on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ franklinhistsociety.co.nz
Karaka Women’s Institute Karaka Women’s Institute has been the fastest-growing Women’s Institute group in New Zealand for the past two years. We hold our dinner meetings at Urban Soul at 7pm on the third Wednesday of each month. Check out our website karakawi.org.nz, search us on Facebook, or email karakawomeninstitute@ gmail.com for more info.
Send your free community events to info@times.co.nz. Due to limited space, we can’t guarantee every listing will run. This section is reserved for not-for-profit community groups. M12698
CDA McLay Chief Executive
www.waikatoregion.govt.nz
Are you retired or semiretired? We welcome you to come along for some ‘fun’ and ‘friendship’ initially as a guest to see what we are about or join on your first visit. We meet on the fourth Monday of each month at the Pukekohe Cosmopolitan Club at 10.00am to listen to a guest speaker, learn of planned outings, etc and chat over morning tea. Enquiries: Joy Walker 027 919 7711 or email franklincombinedprobusclub @gmail.com
listen to a presentation from a guest speaker. We invite you to one of our monthly meetings to see if this might interest you. Contact: Murray Trenberth - 02108686569 or visit u3a.nz
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COMMUNITY SERVICES SAY “YOU SAW IT IN THE TIMES”
POLITICIANS
COUNCILLORS: • Andy Baker 021 283 2222 - Franklin Ward Councillor • Daniel Newman 021 518 796 - Manurewa-Papakura Ward Councillor • Matt Winiata 027 261 6354 - Manurewa-Papakura Ward Councillor FRANKLIN LOCAL BOARD: • Alan Cole 021 923 719 – Chairperson • Amanda Hopkins 027 216 2452 – Deputy Chairperson • Clare Alder 027 301 2785 – Board Member • Gary Holmes 027 256 2849 – Board Member • Andrew Kay 027 216 1819 – Board Member • Alix Bonnington 027 216 4698 – Board Member • Hunter Hawker 027 238 1942 – Board Member • Lesieli Oliver 027 237 8646 – Board Member • Merritt Watson 027 243 7277 – Board Member MPs: Andrew Bayly Port Waikato MP Andrew.Bayly@parliament.govt.nz
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE
• Terry Stanbridge 027 320 0013 • Stuart Britnell 027 475 6251 • Jean (Jofejean) Kiely JP 021 180 6743 • Anthony Searle 027 474 7593 • Roger Goulstone 021 180 1472 • Kamaldeep Singh 022 045 0077 • Jane (Hilary) Hancock 021 963 603 • Paul Brown 09 238 6827 • Heather Maloney MNZM 027 723 5328 • Trinity Jourdain 021 269 6138 • Joanna Blomfield 09 238 8188 • Jim (James) Carpenter 022 074 7017 • Dianne Glenn ONZM 027 428 4779 • Dr Siham El-Kafafi 021 323 662 • Sheryl Hazelwood 027 411 0584 • Alex Robinson 09 238 7653 • Kevin Birch 09 237 0780 • Helen Pulman 027 632 0924 • Peter Amies 027 298 6437 • Marie Appleton MNZM 09 238 5545
BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONS
• Pukekohe Business Association 09 910 0137 • Waiuku Business & Development Association 09 235 6231 • Clevedon Community & Business Association 09 292 8046 • Manurewa Business Association 09 2695252
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, August 21 2026 | 87
Find a huge range of LOCAL businesses, trades & services
www.franklintimes.co.nz/classifieds
• Papakura Business Association 022 099 7331
CHARITY SHOPS
PUKEKOHE: • Franklin Hospice Shop, 29 King St, Pukekohe 09 238 5082 • Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 159A Manukau Rd, Pukekohe 09 222 5060 • SPCA Op Shop, 5 Seddon Lane, Pukekohe 09 239 3201 • Pukekohe Anglican Op Shop, cnr Queen St & Wesley St 09 238 7228 • Salvation Army Family Store, 7 King St, Pukekohe 09 238 6800 • St John Op Shop, 4b Harris St, Pukekohe 09 238 7000 WAIUKU: • St Andrew’s Op Shop, 79 Queen St, Waiuku 09 235 7914 • St John Waiuku Store, 4 Court St, Waiuku 09 235 8954 TUAKAU: • Mai Light House Op Shop, 5 George St, Tuakau 09 2386233 • Tuakau Union Parish Op Shop, 5 Madill St, Tuakau 09 237 8098 PAPAKURA: • SPCA Op Shop, 178 Greet South Rd, Papakura 09 299 6671 • Salvation Army Family Store, 69 O’Shannessey St, Papakura 09 298 9485 • St John Op Shop, 138 Great South Road, Papakura 09 296 2333 • St Vincent de Paul, 275 Great South Road, Papakura 09 296 5052 • Papakura Anglican Op Shop, 40 Coles Cres, Papakura 09 299 8086
EMERGENCY SERVICES • Ambulance • Fire • Police Non emergency: • Franklin Local Board • Civil Defense
TRANSPORT:
• Auckland Transport • AT – HOP • Go Bus Transport • Train Services
111 111 111 105 09 237 1317 0800 22 22 00 0800 10 30 80 09 366 4467 09 257 7688 09 366 6400
Health • Flooding – Emergency – Road flooding – Flooding caused by burst water main • Water Supply and Wastewater
09 377 3107 111 09 969 9800 09 442 2222 09 442 2222
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
• Franklin Pool and Leisure Centre 09 238 5240 • Jubilee Swimming Pool and Aquatic Centre 09 238 5240 • Massey Park Pools 09 298 8526
LIBRARIES & SUPPORT
• Pukekohe Library 09 377 0209 • Tuakau Library 09 236 9823 • Waiuku Library 09 377 0209 • Citizens Advice 09 238 6233 • Clarks Beach Library 021 0220 6929 • Sir Edmund Hillary Library (Papakura) 09 377 0209 • Takanini Library and Community Hub 09 377 0209
SPORTS CLUBS
• Pukekohe AFC (Football Club) 027 293 5775 • Pukekohe Badminton 021460578 • Franklin Gymsports 09 238 8290 • Pukekohe Netball Centre – pukekohenetball@xtra.co.nz • Tuakau Netball Club 09 238 9321 • Tuakau Rugby Football & Sports Club 09 236 8296 • Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union 09 237 0033 • Counties Manukau Hockey Association 09 238 4333 • Pukekohe East Indoor Bowling Club 021 1179632 • Pukekohe Tennis Club 021 523 497
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COUNCIL COMPLAINTS:
• Animal Control 09 301 0101 • Noise Control 09 301 0101 • Water Care 09 442 2222 • Illegal Dumping 0800 663 867 • Parks/Beaches 09 301 0101 • Pollution/Environmental
www.franklintimes.co.nz/classifieds
88 | Friday, August 21, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Find a home you’ll love Townhouses available now
Set in peaceful surroundings just minutes from Pukekohe town centre, Possum Bourne Village offers the perfect balance of relaxation and convenience. We have a range of two bedroom townhouses available now. These homes all offer spacious open plan living, with contemporary kitchens and bathrooms and your own private patio. Townhouses priced from $799,000*. *Reflects the lowest available price at time of publication. Availability and pricing subject to change.
Discover the Ryman lifestyle. To find out more call Jo on 09 238 0808. 5 Lisle Farm Drive, Pukekohe ryman.co.nz
Get you rself to
WHITIANGA! COROMANDEL Home of The Lost Spring Awarded ‘Most Beautiful Spa’ In The World
DELICIOUS
DINING
STUNNING
STAYS
WHITIANGA – Less than 3 hours from Auckland
AMAZING
ADVENTURES
Get Yourself to Whitianga Thermal Ocean Village
A Trip and a Holiday You Will Love
T
here’s something about the drive into Whitianga that sets the tone for the whole trip.
Whitianga is waiting for you!
Stop at Tairua. 24 hour toilets and a great burger at Surf’n’Sand Takeaways.
Less than 3 hours from Auckland
N
Two and a half hours south-east of Auckland, the journey itself is part of the escape — wind down through rolling farmland and native bush, with the Pacific flickering into view long before you arrive. Break the trip in Tairua for a coffee and a wander along the estuary. Or take the road less travelled through Coromandel Town. However you get here, Whitianga rewards the journey: golden sand, sheltered water, and a laid-back township that feels a world away from the city without ever feeling far from anywhere.
07 866 0456 121A Cook Drive www.thelostspring.co.nz
estled in the heart of Whitianga, The Lost Spring offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. This idyllic destination boasts geothermal pools formed over 16,000 years ago, providing a natural and rejuvenating experience for visitors. Immerse yourself in the lush surroundings as you unwind in the geothermal pools, heated by the earth’s core. For those seeking an extra
touch of indulgence, the treetop treatments offer a chance to connect with nature while being pampered with a variety of spa services. Dine in paradise at The Lost Spring restaurant – delcious cuisine, refreshing cocktails and relaxed island-inspired dining. The Lost Spring is the perfect destination to savour exceptional food and to unwind.
W
Whitianga — It’s Good For Your Soul
Where To Wine, Dine and Get Your Takeaways Clove
Indian and Indian Fusion Cuisine. Beautiful ambience and decor. Opening hours 4:30pm - 9.30pm everyday.
022 184 9115 47 Albert Street facebook.com/MatsWhitianga
07 867 1983 Blacksmith Lane clovewhitianga@gmail.com
Marina Bay Eatery
Slice Slice Baby
Waterfront dining with the marina as your backdrop, where fresh local seafood and a relaxed all-day menu make it easy to linger over lunch and stay for sunset drinks. 07 867 1710 1/15 Blacksmith Lane www.marinabayeatery.co.nz
Mat’s Cafe
Snapper Jack’s
Serving up the Coromandels’ fave Sourdough pizzas! 23C Albert Street 07 211 6545
07 866 5482 26c Albert Street facebook.com/SnapperJacks Whitianga
e of Hom the illa Godz ! a Pizz
e of Hom the illa Godz a! Pizz
Serving up the Coromandels’ fave Sourdough pizzas!
Serving up the Coromandels’ fave Sou
Follow us online for current menu & opening hours. Gluten free & dairy free options available. 23C Albert Street, Whitianga. Phone 07 211 6545
@sliceslicebabynz
Slice Slice Baby Pizza Whitianga
Follow us online for current menu & openin Gluten free & dairy free options availab 23C Albert Street, Whitianga. Phone 07
Don’t go past Basker @sliceslicebabynz
Slice Slice Baby Pizza
Right at the entrance of Whitianga on The Waterways • All day dining • Functions • Boutique weddings • Private events • Christmas parties 3 Rewiti Drive, The Waterways, Whitianga Open 7 days a week – breakfast to late Check website for winter hours Phone 07 866 0645 info@basker.co.nz | www.basker.co.nz
Wonderful, Whimsical, WHITIANGA
Attractions & Things To Do
Whitianga is a Launchpad for Adventure
H
op aboard a Glass Bottom Boat tour and glide over Mercury Bay’s marine reserve, spotting fish and reef life in crystal-clear water without getting your feet wet. Head south to the world-famous Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own natural spa pool in the sand at low tide — the neighbouring Holiday Park makes it easy to turn the trip into a proper stay. For those keen to test the water further out, local Fishing Charters offer both experienced anglers and total beginners a shot at landing the big one in the rich waters off the Coromandel coast. Back in town, take a slower afternoon exploring the town’s Art Gallery in Monk Street, showcasing local and regional talent. For clothes shopping Whitianga has great fashion trend shops – Stilo, Blackjack Surf, Chances, Style Makers, Harry & Her, Mainly Casual, Eye Spy, Tango Shoes and Feet Street. Come and enjoy!
Stilo Stilo Design Design •• New New Season Season In In Store Store Now Now
Your style. Your way. Your Stilo.
At Stilo Design, we make it easy to shop fabulous New Zealand and international designers, all under one roof. Whether you’re looking for timeless classics, relaxed casuals, edgy everyday style, or something fabulous for a special occasion, we’ve got the perfect look for you. Come in, discover your next favourite piece and enjoy the Stilo Design shopping experience. Stilo Design — fashion, styling & a little bit of magic.
In store and online – www.stilodesign.co.nz Open Mon-Fri 10am to 4pm, Sat 10am-3pm, Sun 10am-2pm
30 Monk Street, Whitianga
C b h a o a
G a a t w G
S
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The Best Irish Tavern on the Coromandel Peninsula Whitianga’s Esplanade Tavern – Open 7 days Come to Grace O’Malley’s. Enjoy our great menu and beverage choices. Fantastic waterfront views. We have an inside and outside fireplace with extended alfresco deck (dogs welcome on deck). 12 beers on tap, cocktails. Rockfleet Bar and Function Room available for hire. Enquire today. Grace O’Malley’s Irish Inn provides a great ambience. There is plenty of space for guests, and it is a great venue to have entertainment which happens a lot at Grace O’Malley’s. From the deck you can enjoy harbour views and there is a children’s playground across the road on the waterfront.
9 The Esplanade, Whitianga (07) 866 4546 www.graceomalleys.co.nz info@graceomalleys.co.nz
Whitianga Welcomes The Whanau
Fun For The Whole Family
K
will love, Whiti Farm Park brings you up close with friendly farm animals in a beautiful Coromandel setting.
eep the kids (and the young at heart) entertained with a visit to the Whitianga Bike Park, purpose-built trails and jumps for riders of different skill levels, you can take a leisurely ride through the scenic forest trails.
On a rainy day — or any day — catch the latest releases at Mercury Twin Cinemas, Whitianga’s own slice of movie magic right in the heart of town. And for a hands-on rural experience the whole family
The Skate Park, a popular hangout for skaters and scooter riders alike.
Whitianga Bike Park 022 082 1230 Moewai Road facebook.com/WhitiBikePark
Mercury Twin Cinemas 07 867 1001 1a Lee Street www.mercurytwincinemas.com
Whitianga Skate Park skate@devenoges.com 40 Albert Street facebook.com/WhitiangaSkatepark
Shine Canine can look after your dog locally
Glass Bottom Boat
Cathedral cove boat tour and discover below the surface of Whanganui-oHei Marine Reserve. 07 867 1962 Office Monk Street, Whitianga www.glassbottomboat whitianga.co.nz
Whiti City Markets and Coroglen Farmers Market
From Labour Weekend and including Easter, the markets are open every Saturday at Soldiers Memorial Park, Whitianga, from 9am until 1pm; and every Sunday from 8.30am in Coroglen on SH25.
WHITIANGA — Where the WEARY Go To RELAX
F
or the perfect base to explore it all, look no further than Hosts On The Coast. Offering comfortable, welcoming accommodation with genuine Kiwi hospitality,
Many Places To Stay the accomodation options listed online at Hosts On The Coast puts you close to the beach, the town centre, and everything Whitianga has to offer — the ideal home base whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay.
Annabells B&B Two beautiful rooms with ensuites, a fully cooked breakfast, robes, a spa suite, a king bed, barista coffee, delightful Nutrimetics products in the bathrooms. We call it our Paradise because it’s a paradise to your eyes: ferns and Nikau Palms on 1.5 ha of sub tropical forest. Owner Beverley Sheppard awaits your booking. Book direct online www.annabells.co.nz Ph +64 2109028855 Facebook - Annabells B&B
We also have the beautiful Waterfront Apartments, 2 Buffalo Beach Road; The Bayside Motel, 122 Buffalo Beach Road; Peninsula Motel, 93-97 Albert Street; Baileys At The Beach, 66 Buffalo Beach Rd; and lots more...
BUFFALO BEACH CLUB 18 The Esplanade, Whitianga www.buffalobeachclub.bar
LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEKEND
Easy food, drink, relaxation and music on the Buffalo Beach waterfront Come, sit back, enjoy the music and chill at BBC
BBC PRESENTS
QUIZ NIGHT Every Tuesday 6pm-8pm
Order your Texas Pete Barbecue takeaways online www.buffalobeachclub.bar Winter hours open 12 noon Tuesday to Sunday
You Call It WHITIANGA — We Call It HOME
Thinking of moving?
Life in the Coromandel: A Q&A with Bayleys Director Shaun Paterson After leaving corporate life in London for a new chapter in Whitianga, Shaun Paterson has spent the past four and a half years growing Bayleys across the Coromandel. Recently named Bayleys’ National Sales Manager of the Year, we asked Shaun what brought him back, why others are making the move — and for a few local tips. What made you swap London and Auckland for Whitianga? I spent my childhood camping here and my teenage years living here. It’s funny — as a teenager, you’re working out how to get away, then after living in different cities and countries, you realise just how good it is and spend the next 20 years working out how to get back! Having two little girls was the trigger — my wife and I wanted them to grow up with the kind of outdoor lifestyle I’d had here. They love it! Who’s buying in Whitianga now? The diversity surprises me. We still have bach buyers and retirees, but increasingly families too, driven by demand for trades and the ability for professionals to work remotely while enjoying the lifestyle.
What can buyers find here? Everything from the classic Kiwi bach to multimillion-dollar canal-front and beachfront homes, alongside newer suburban homes and apartments. It’s an unusually broad market. And the lifestyle? Beaches, boating and the coastal lifestyle are still key, but now they’re backed by great cafés, restaurants, retail, schools, golf courses and award-winning tourism operators. We’re also within about 2.5 hours of Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga. Good time to buy? I think so. Record supply means plenty of choice, and after the big post-peak market correction, we’ve had a sustained period of price stability at more affordable levels. With all that’s going on in the world, it’s not a bad time to make a lifestyle choice as well! When you’re hungry? Restaurant-wise, Basker is a daily habit, while Cooked Mexican and Luke’s Kitchen are favourites too. Shaun can be contacted at shaun.paterson@bayleys.co.nz
Selling homes in a place we call
Proudly Kiwi owned and locally operated. In real estate, they say it takes local knowledge to do a job right. At Bayleys, we’re 100% New Zealand owned and locally operated – so if you’re looking for an expert who knows their stuff and knows your neighbourhood, you’re in the right place.
Experience Altogether Better 07 866 0098 coromandel.bayleys.co.nz MH REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008
Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services
This invitation to Whitianga has been published by The Coromandel Informer, Coromandel Peninsula’s weekly newspaper • www.theinformer.co.nz • Ph 07 866 2090