phone: 09 283 8451 www.blackhawklaw.co.nz
Vol 2 No 19 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
SHIELD HAPPENS! Unlike the famed 300 Spartans, the Steelers came home with their shield, not on it, recently. The Ranfurly Shield pictured isn’t the real deal, but the adoration of fans is the genuine article. Photo Susie Hare (PFCC)
Subscribe FREE FOR LOCAL NEWS AND EVENTS
SCOUTS CAUGHT OUT BY COUNCIL
proudly new zealand
waters funerals.
RREB REBUILD EEBBU UIIILLD
Chapel & Reception Lounge Facilities Live Streaming & Recording Available We Serve all Cultures & Communities PUKEKOHE: 81 Franklin Rd Ph. 09 238 4794
This October, we’re rebuilding for a cause close to many of us
PAPATOETOE: 426 Great South Rd Ph. 09 278 8742
info@watersfunerals.co.nz
FRANKLIN’S HEALTH DOCTOR WHERE?
Supporting breast cancer research
dona ddonate on naattee & tte tell eelll u uss your yyoou urr
yyo your ou o urr why u wh w hyy h watersfunerals.co.nz
Smith & Sons Franklin
p uk e k oh e 28 Subway Road, Pukekohe, 2120, The Zone Retail Centre
• halloween costumes • party decorations • custom printing
• dress up accessories • party tableware • party balloons
follow us
phone: 092813606 www.looksharpstore.co.nz
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 3
EDITOR
LOG ON!
‘W
here were you when we were losing? Bloody fairweather fans!’ There have been plenty of positive and enthusiastic comments voicing support for our Counties Manukau Steelers of late – both online and in the real world – since they won the Ranfurly Shield, aka the Log o’ Wood. However, there’s been a few comments taking a different tack. Some obviously feel as though they’ve earned the jersey and played through the pain, having sat through a winter of discontent watching their team lose. Why should they share the sweet taste of success? They have a point. To an extent. When a team isn’t winning, support is thin because few love you when you’re down and out. I’m more of the not-so-
hard-core with regards to footie fandom anymore. Mostly, it’s because I’m a parent, which is usually enough said for some. I still catch the games I can on TV, but this does nothing to help build sideline support, which definitely does spur teams on. As the Steelers will now begin next season accompanied by quite the talisman, in addition to other silverware, it’s bound to draw more to the ground than had a recent boot been on the other foot and a particular kick in Whangarei failed to land. So, the sunshine supporters should be back. Over the years, I’ve seen great teams flounder when, perhaps, their hearts just weren’t in it so neither was the crowd. I’ve also seen others pull off remarkable feats seemingly fuelled by cheers. At last weekend’s Shield defence against play-
Ph 09 271 8000 off-bound Hawke’s Bay, there was an energy in the air. It seemed to go from the field to the stand and back again in an ever-upward spiral. The crowd fed off its team and the team seemed to feed off our applause. Loyal die-hards can be forgiven for feeling as though fairweather fans haven’t earned the right to celebrate. However, if it helps their team keep on winning – and the tills at the ground to keep on ringing – it’s not such a price to pay to smile and enjoy the extra company, however long the ride lasts and whoever’s left sideline when it stops. As for the Steelers players, looking ahead to next season:
NEWS ROOM Editor Jon Rawlinson Ph 021 02469998 editor@franklintimes.co.nz ADVERTISING 09 271 8000 advertising@times.co.nz 210 King Street, Pukekohe
“If you’re going through hell, keep going.” – Winston Churchill.
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.
Jon Rawlinson
www.facebook.com/ franklintimesnz
SUBSCRIBE Local news, sports, events competitions & classifieds to your inbox
Published twice a month
Rethinking the pink W hile many indiscretions by politicians are forgiven, or become yesterday’s news, ask a long-time Pukekohe local about cherry trees and they’re likely to recall the infamous ‘moonlight chop.’ In 2000, the Franklin District Council had cherry trees
along King Street cut down overnight ahead of redevelopment of the town’s centre. It created quite a backlash. While Pukekohe is bursting with blossoms again, King Street isn’t quite as alive with colour as it once was. It’s great to see locals keeping the tradition alive
by planting at home, and we still have some of the trees (pictured) at the town square, but it’s not the same. So, please send us your photos of the King Street trees in bloom, taken before ‘the turn of the century,’ to editor@ franklintimes.co.nz and we will look to share them online.
me Spring into your next home
Spring Auction Event | 15 October
literally.
and get List with Diana this spring and get up to up $2,026 ng.back Plus a f towards your marketing. Plus a free auction*.
4.
Diana Cussen 027 225 8131
Check out our latest tips on page 28.
#3 Sales Team, South Auckland Region, March 2025/26 R RateMyAgent Suburb Winner Pukekohe 2020, 2022-2026 Realestate.nz Realestate.nz - Platinum agent of Excellence Award - #4/16,000 agents Top Residential Agent in B&T Pukekohe Office 2017-26
Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008 License Terms & Conditions Apply*
4 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz Stockists of
www.thechookyard.co.nz
STOCKFEED
KEEP WORMING SIMPLE THIS SPRING
with Premium Yolk 19% + Wormer
Certified organic feed available
Available in 10kg or 20kg to suit all flock sizes
✔ 19% Protein ✔ Free-flowing pellets ✔ with Flubenol ✔ Pre-dosed No Witholding + Wormer
No messy mixing or measuring — just swap feeds for a week. IT'S THAT EASY!
END OF WINTER SALE
$20 off all Feedomatics 12kg was $149 - now $129!
53 Reid Road, Glenbrook, Franklin 021 049 0138
thechookyardnz@gmail.com
OPEN: Tues to Fri 12pm - 6pm & Sat 10am - 3pm CLOSED: Sun, Mon and Public Holidays
The illustration above by Roger Smith was inspired by the following email from Grahame Clark, who writes: ‘As a new resident in Franklin, I have noticed an issue on our roads other than the potholes. Some smaller roads [are so narrow that] with cars parked along the sides, it doesn’t allow free movement, causing some to have to stop and allow others coming in the other direction to travel through. I now always give the other side a polite ‘Pukekohe wave’, because we will all get there in the end.’ As not a new Franklin resident, I’m not quite so polite. I too often give the ‘Pukekohe wave,’ but sometimes I only use one digit – Ed. PS: note to self – avoid Princes St West on bin day!
Hot topic
WOOL T SALE RALLY, LIVE NATU OL CHOOSE WO *T&C’s apply
S H E E P I S H LY G O O D D E A L S O N WO O L CA R P ET JB’S FLOORING Address XTRA to go in here NAME FLOORING XTRA P: (00) 000 0000 16d Wrightson Way, Pukekohe E: storename@flooringxtra.co.nz 45 Queen St, Waiuku P: 09 238 2954 pukekohe@flooringxtra.co.nz
P: 09 957 2956 waiuku@flooringxtra.co.nz
he clocks have gone forward but the seasons don’t always run like clockwork. Due to a strong El Nino weather pattern, we can expect a hotter, windier and drier summer than usual. However, we should be prepared for everything from drought and wildfires to thunderstorms and flooding, Auckland Council’s Emergency Management Committee chair, Alf Filipaina, warns. “Auckland weather can go quickly from ‘where’s my sunscreen?’ to ‘where did that tree come from?’ [So] a few simple jobs now can save a lot of scrambling later. “Check your emergency supplies and have a plan if the power goes out or the weather turns nasty.” Being caught out by drought remains of particular concern, especially in
rural areas, Auckland Emergency Management (AEM) GM, Adam Maggs, says. “If you rely on tank water, don’t wait until your tank is waving a white flag. Check levels now, fix those leaks and book a top-up before you’re running on empty. “The best time to prepare is when you still have water in the tank and the weather is behaving itself, not when the hot, dry spell arrives, your tank is low and everyone suddenly has the same idea to top up.” Earth Sciences New Zealand says this year’s El Nino is likely to be one of the strongest in recent history, with peak conditions expected as early as late spring. Council’s Get Ready campaign is encouraging people to be prepared. More information is accessible via aucklandemergencymanagement.govt.nz.
SHE
NAME
P:
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 5
Drury hospital prognosis A
13-hectare site along Karaka Road has been purchased for a new hospital facility in Drury, Health Minister Simeon Brown confirms. The $45 million site, currently known as NZ Hothouse, was purchased from Fisher and Paykel Healthcare. It sits beside their research and development precinct. “South Auckland is one of the fastest-growing parts of New Zealand, and it’s essential that our health infrastructure keeps pace with that growth,” says Brown. “This co-location creates opportunities to foster innovation, attract talent and encourage complementary private sector investment alongside future public health services.” Also neighbouring the site is the new Ngākōroa railway station, which is expected to open next year. It is also close to State Highway 22. “Location was a critical
consideration. We want a site that would be easy for patients, families, staff and visitors to access, whether they are travelling by train, bus, or car,” Brown says. “With excellent transport links and room for future development, Drury is well positioned to support the healthcare needs of South Auckland as the area continues to grow.” National Infrastructure Funding and Financing (NIFCO) has been asked to
Photo stock image
lead the work on delivering this project, alongside Health New Zealand (HNZ). The government expects that the location will enable HNZ to consider a range of future health infrastructure options, including the potential development of a major hospital. However, this is subject to future planning and investment decisions. “By securing this land now, we are ensuring future governments and health
planners have the flexibility to develop modern, fit-forpurpose facilities that can respond to growing demand and changing healthcare needs,” Brown adds. “This is a practical, longterm investment in the health of south Auckland and an important part of [building] a stronger health system.” New health facilities in Drury may help offset the closure of Waiuku’s Franklin Memorial Hospital. See next page to read more.
6 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
NZNO: Waiuku can’t wait By ISABELLA ROOT
W
hile the future of Waiuku’s Franklin Memorial Hospital is uncertain, there are real concerns in the community. As New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) delegate Liandra Conradie confirms, some of these concerns can be quite sobering. “People don’t want to die in a big public hospital where their family may not be able to be there for them,” she told the Times. “[Or, for example] for someone who hasn’t been to a doctor in a long time to develop an infected foot that could require amputation.” In June, a hospital working group (FMHWG) pitched the possibility of a health hub in Waiuku to Health New Zealand (HNZ) and Health Minister Simeon Brown. Unfortunately, at a community meeting in late August, Port Waikato MP Andrew Bayly said that a response wouldn’t come until after the election – a timeline Conradie says the region can ill afford. “It’s not feasible to think that this project should take that long,” she says. “Our community’s health is at stake here and if we don’t have something in place long term it’s going to affect outcomes, especially our ageing population.” A Waiuku resident, Conradie began her nursing career at Franklin Memorial in 2015 before transferring to Middlemore Hospital.
NZNO delegate Liandra Conradie.
Photo Isabella Root
As previously reported, Franklin Memorial closed in 2024 after it was deemed ‘unfit’ and later, ‘surplus,’ following the announcement that a new hospital is to be built in Drury. However, in the meantime locals could be forgiven for feeling as though they’re left adrift with some now living hours away from their closest health facility. “[At Middlemore], we
don’t cater as often to people on the Awhitu Peninsula or out in Onewhero, for example,” Conradie says. “Some don’t have the funds or the means to travel so far.” Plans for the Drury hospital offer hope in the longer term but, as theoretical hospitals can’t treat patients, the pressures on Middlemore have increased. “If it’s a good acute public
Build new with Signature Homes Papakura & Franklin 458 Karaka Road, Karaka 0800 828 822
hospital, it will be beneficial, but it would need to be on a similar scale to Middlemore, not just a little community country hospital.” For many, Franklin Memorial has been a rock for the community. Once a maternity facility, it was later converted into a geriatric hospital; as the local population grows and ages, such services will be needed even more than in the past. “We have a community with people who aren’t always as fortunate as others,” Conradie says. “Some have to decide between buying food and going to the doctor – they should never have to do that.” Although the site has been dormant for two years, locals are refusing to throw in the towel and give up on a return of health services (of some sort) to Franklin Memorial. Gathering support, Conradie is hoping to turn up the heat ensuring a resolution comes sooner rather than too late, at least for some. “Waiuku is a tight-knit town with people who are very passionate about this important community resource – they love this hospital,” she adds. “People won’t give up; I think they will find a new fire in their belly.” The Times contacted HNZ regarding plans for a Drury hospital. However, news that a site has been purchased has changed the game somewhat. We hope to share more from HNZ in our next issue.
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 7
Community action key to youth suicide prevention By HELENA O’NEILL Greater awareness, early intervention and community support are needed to help address suicide among New Zealand’s young people, a Franklin mental health worker says. Ross Cormack is a social worker with Mai Lighthouse and believes that while awareness of suicide prevention is growing among agencies and schools, mental health can still be overlooked until it directly affects someone. “Often, people don’t think a lot about it until it impacts them. Mental health is the same,” Cormack says. Pressures facing young people can include bullying, difficulties in relationships, stress at home, and school pressures. Changes in behaviour can provide warning signs that a young person may be struggling. Knowing your child’s personality and behaviour is important, Cormack says. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to notice significant changes such as withdrawal, difficulties at school, risk-taking, mood changes, or unexpectedly giving away prized possessions. However, recognising those changes can be difficult because some behaviours may appear to be typical of adolescence.
Stock image
Conversations with young people are important, even though teenagers may withdraw or be reluctant to talk. Busy family lives can also make spotting problems more difficult. “We live really busy lifestyles. Often, mum and dad are both working. There are a lot of distractions, and if they seem okay, they may not be.” New Zealand continues to record concerning suicide figures. Ministry of Health data shows 630 suspected self-inflicted deaths were recorded in 2024/25, an overall age-standardised rate of 11 per 100,000 people. People aged 15-24 had a rate of 14.6 per 100,000. Cormack says that the government has a role to play in funding organisations able
Fixing the Basics. Building the Future.
to provide support. “We need more money and we also need more awareness.” The government’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan 20252029 includes a focus on prevention and early intervention and is backed by existing annual suicide prevention investment of $20 million, plus more than $16m a year in additional funding from 2025/26.
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK This Mental Health Awareness Week, the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand (MHF) is calling on people across the country to take simple, intentional steps to foster connection in their everyday lives.
This year’s theme, Belonging Matters, is shining a light on how small, regular moments of inclusion can reverse rising loneliness and build stronger, more resilient communities. MHF says research shows that loneliness has increased over the last decade. Over 572,000 adult New Zealanders now experience regular loneliness. At the same time, rates of mistrust are increasing, with global data showing seven in 10 people feel hesitant to trust those with different backgrounds or values. Yet recent findings show that New Zealanders who report high levels of trust in others have almost double the odds of enjoying good mental wellbeing. “The evidence is clear – positive social connection supports wellbeing and helps reduce stress. When connection is missing, loneliness and isolation can become serious risks to people’s health,” says MHF chief executive Shaun Robinson. “We don’t need massive, overwhelming gestures to make a difference. A five-minute kōrero (conversation) with a friend, checking in on a workmate, or inviting a new neighbour over for a cuppa can change someone’s week and rebuild community trust.” Check out resources and events at www.mhaw.org.nz.
Emma Chatterton PAPAKURA emma.chatterton@national.org.nz facebook.com/EmmaChattertonNZ
Authorised by J de Joux, ps@national.org.nz
Authorised by E Chatterton, emma.chatterton@national.org.nz
"BUYING OR SELLING in Park Green? LET'S MAKE IT EASY."
Cassie Su 021 217 9229 Eric Xue 022 587 3340
Masterful Design, Commanding Corner Section
23 Emerald Avenue, Karaka
Proudly positioned on a prominent, generous corner section, this masterfully built residence maximizes natural light and street appeal, offering expansive living zones meticulously curated for both high-end entertaining and relaxed family life. The Corner Advantage: Capitalizing on its prime corner aspect, the home enjoys enhanced privacy, broader neighbourhood vistas, and an abundance of all-day sun throughout its soaring, light-filled interiors. The Culinary Hub: The home flows effortlessly into a chef-caliber open-plan kitchen and dining pavilion, perfectly engineered to anchor daily family life while hosting grand-scale events with absolute ease. Palatial Accommodation: Designed to intuitively adapt to modern multi-generational living, the floor plan boasts seven opulent bedrooms and five designer bathrooms. This includes three expansive master suites, offering unparalleled privacy and versatility for extended families. A dual internal-access garage completes this flawless package. More than a residence, this is a lifestyle-defining space, connection, and pure luxury. Contact us today to schedule your exclusive private viewing. Open homes: Saturday / Sunday 12:00pm - 12:45pm For Sale: By negotiation Property ID: 937257
Eric Xue 022 587 3340
Cassie Su 021 217 9229
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 9
Mill Rd – $1.75b pledge T
he National Party is promising $1.75 billion to begin construction of the first stage of Mill Road in south Auckland if it leads the next government. The party is also pledging $100m for route protection for stages two and three. National transport spokesperson Chris Bishop says stage one, between Manukau and Alfriston, would receive funding in Budget 2028, allowing construction to begin in late 2028. “Mill Road is an important Road of National Significance that is part of the government’s Major Transport Projects Pipeline, included in the Auckland City Deal as well as NZTA’s Auckland Strategic Motorway Plan,” he says. “South Auckland is one of the fastest-growing parts of the country and Drury is at the centre of that, but the road network hasn’t kept up. “Roads such as Redoubt
Times file photo
Road and the existing Mill Road were built for a semi-rural community, not tens of thousands of new households.” Bishop says the completed Mill Road project would run from Manukau to Drury. “It will be a four-lane, 21.5-kilometre corridor running alongside State Highway 1 from Manukau to Drury, crushing congestion, improving safety, and unlocking
land for homes and jobs the region needs.” NZTA estimates the first stage would reduce congestion by 30 per cent on the corridor, cut journey times by 25 per cent and reduce deaths and serious injuries by more than 60 per cent. “We’ve made strong progress on Mill Road stage one over the last three years,” Bishop says. “The NZTA board has endorsed the investment
Personal Farewells, Done Your Way Locally owned and trusted,
personalised funeral and memorial services, private gatherings, burials and ‘no fuss cremations’ from just $2960. Our down-to-earth approach sets us apart. Talk to us today – to talk through your options.
P. 09 236 9457 | 0800 BEN WILSON 49 George St, Tuakau 2121 benwilsonfunerals.co.nz rals.co.nz
case, and NZTA is completing the design and taking the project through the fast-track process to secure the consents it needs.” National is also promising $100m to progress route protection for stages two and three, Bishop confirms. “Landowners, council, businesses and communities need certainty about where the future corridor will go, so they can plan and make investment decisions. “Route protection will provide certainty and ensure the corridor can be completed from Manukau to Drury.” This commitment follows other Auckland transport projects progressed by the government, Bishop adds. “We’re building the transport infrastructure Auckland needs for the future.” New Zealand First has also confirmed plans to improve Mill Road – see our previous issue to read more.
10 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Cop out to pasture CUSTOM ENGINEERING AVAILABLE AT
WALLACE HERONS WORKSHOP • • • • • •
ENZED Hydraulic Repairs & Hoses Precision Machining Sheet Metal Work Welding & Fabrication Steel Sales Knowledgeable Engineers
68
YEARS SINCE 1957
Wallace Heron Ltd is a locally owned and family run business with a fully equipped workshop and well stocked engineering store for anything that you need to keep your machinery going.
ENGINEERING SUPPLIES
•
Range of affordable and precision tools from reliable brands
•
Bolts, Bearings, O-rings, Clips, Chain, a wide range of unique parts
•
Welding gear and supplies
•
ENZED hose supplier
•
Expert sales staff!
Wallace Heron Ltd
143-145 MANUKAU RD PUKEKOHE 09 238 3281 Shop Online Now! WallaceHeron.co.nz
Promo ends 31/05/26 or while stocks last. Prices excluding GST
Senior Constable Lorraine Shuker (centre) is farewelled by her colleagues Photo supplied in Waiuku.
A
fter 28 years of dedicated service with Counties Manukau South, Senior Constable Lorraine Shuker is hanging up her blue uniform and embarking on a new adventure, swapping policing for dairy farming. A familiar and respected face throughout the Waiuku, Pokeno, and Pukekohe communities, Shuker has spent nearly three decades serving the people of south Auckland with professionalism, integrity, and a genuine commitment to helping others. During her career, she built strong relationships across the communities she worked in, becoming wellknown not only as a police officer but as someone residents could trust and rely on. Colleagues describe Shuker as hardworking, knowledgeable, and deeply committed to her role. Throughout her years of service, she has been a source of support and guidance for fellow staff, generously sharing her experience and expertise with others. Her calm, practical approach and willingness to help wherever needed earned her the respect of both her peers and the communities she served. Beyond her policing achievements, Shuker’s
warm personality and sense of humour helped forge lasting friendships throughout the district. She has been a valued member of the Counties Manukau South Police whanau, and her presence will be greatly missed by those who have worked alongside her over the years. As she transitions into retirement from policing, Shuker is looking forward to a very different pace of life, taking on a new challenge in the dairy farming industry. Those who know her best have no doubt she will bring the same dedication, determination, and enthusiasm to life on the farm as she has throughout her policing career. While colleagues are sad to see her leave, they are equally excited for what lies ahead. Shuker leaves behind an impressive legacy of service, community connection, and friendship that has touched countless lives. The Counties Manukau South Police family extends its heartfelt thanks to Shuker for her outstanding contribution over the past 28 years and wishes her every success, happiness, and fulfilment in her well-earned retirement and journey into greener pastures.
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 11
Sea scouts left high and dry By JON RAWLINSON Waikato District Council (WDC) is asking scouts not to go jump in the lake. Heading into summer, the Tuakau District Sea Scouts could be left knocked right out of the water should they fail to find a new location for kayaking and rafting. The troop has been using McDonald Pond, Pokeno, for the past decade, but towards the end of last summer they discovered the writing was on the wall. “When we turned up in February with all our gear, the sign was there,” scout leader Kees ‘Tui’ van Velthuizen explains. “It says recreational use is not permitted, even though we’ve used it for 10 years and our zone leaders check the pond annually.” Leader of the troop since it was founded 20 years ago, the Pukekawa local says the location has been ideal. “It is a fantastic site. I take Keas and Cubs there in summer to teach them kayaking and raft building as well as looking after the environment – we look for bugs to study and we pick up rubbish and do some weed control.” Van Velthuizen believes the lake is safe for use. “Scouts NZ and Tuakau District Sea Scouts take the safety of our youth extremely seriously,” he says. “We advise them not to put their heads under water, and we’ve never had any of the children becoming sick.” Recently, van Velthuizen
Tuakau District Sea Scouts and leaders (including ‘Tui’ van Velthuizen, back row, left) are unimpressed with Photo supplied restrictions at McDonald’s Pond. says he confirmed his claim regarding water quality by sending samples to a lab. “[The test shows] it is not safe as drinking water, but it is perfectly safe for swimming,” he says. However, WDC disagrees. “McDonald’s Pond was not designed or constructed for recreational purposes,” council’s interim waters manager, Mathew Arthur, told the Times. “It is an industrial stormwater treatment facility and forms part of the water quality treatment requirements for the surrounding industrial catchment area. “The pond is managed and maintained by council to ensure it continues to perform its intended stormwater treatment function.” When the troop first began using the pond, van Velthuizen contacted the Waikato District Council
confirming their intention. He says he never received a response. Placement of the sign could now be seen as an (albeit belated) reply. An increase in illegal dumping and industrial discharges during the last two years prompted WDC to install the sign, making the rules clear, Arthur explains. “The sign did not mean the pond suddenly became unsuitable for recreation. It was to clearly communicate the existing purpose of the pond and reinforce that it is not a recreational facility.” While van Velthuizen says he doesn’t intend to break the rules, it appears WDC is prepared to enforce them. “We hope increased awareness and education will prevent further unauthorised use. Our focus is educating people,” Arthur adds. “Council would prefer not to impose penalties [but we]
will consider options, including seeking legal advice to help resolve the issue and ensure activity ceases.” Although it’s required some back-and-forth, van Velthuizen has received some assistance from the council. “A community liaison suggested we use the Port Waikato Estuary, but that’s tidal, open water, which is not permitted for scouts,” he says. “They also suggested lakes in the Huntly area, but because we meet on Tuesday afternoons that’s not practical, we wouldn’t have time to get there and back.” WDC is standing its ground; so is van Velthuizen. “We’re hoping someone knows where we can go or that [council] will change its mind,” he adds. “I just want the sign rewritten to say that people can use the pond at their own risk. There should be no other restrictions.”
Your local Chartered Accountants, helping Kiwi
business owners unlock:
TIME. MIND. FINANCIAL 09 299 6596
robbix.co.nz
Check before you dig PUKEKOHE 20-22 OCT 2026
This October, energy workers from across Aotearoa will gather in Pukekohe for Annual Connection 2026, New Zealand’s premier energy industry competition and celebration. Hosted by Counties Energy, the event brings together electricity distribution companies from around the country to test their skills, knowledge, and teamwork in a series of challenging competitions. These events showcase the expertise, professionalism, and dedication required to keep New Zealand powered. Connexis and host sponsor Counties Energy are proud to welcome competitors, supporters, and visitors to Pukekohe for this national showcase of industry excellence.
beforeudig.co.nz
? G N I R P S R ! O S F I Y P D P A B RE A U H E G A T U OUR O Stay connected when the power goes out • • • •
Real-time updates on unplanned outages Multi-location alerts Faster outage reporting Add an alternative contact if you’re away
Learn more at the Outage Hub app.countiesenergy.co.nz
be
cri
bs
Su s*
es
dr
Ad
ss
re
dd
na
ha
arc
Se
e*
m
Na
*
ail
Em
r*
be
um
eN
bil
Mo
S SM ail Em
ibe
cr
bs
Su
POLITICS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 13
Pause hit on Head Start
A government decision to pause proposals by local councils to amalgamate, deferring decisions until after the general election, has been met with disappointment by Waikato District Mayor, Aksel Bech. “We put forward a proposal we believe would see benefits to our communities only to see it put in the ‘hurry up and wait’ file for now, with an uncertain timeline from here,” he says. “In time we will learn what the decision makers in central government want and hope that the extra time they have afforded themselves brings about some additional supporting guardrails and principles around how we proceed. This delay is a pit stop [while] we return our focus to the core, day-today operations of council.” Waikato District Council (WDC) has been working on amalgamation with other councils through the Head
Bech good to go but Watts says ‘stop’. Original illustration by Roger Smith. Start pathway. Overseen by central government, Head Start is intended to streamline amalgamations. In total, 18 proposals have been submitted including one featuring WDC, Waipa and South Waikato District
Councils. Hamilton City and Taupo District Councils have, so far, refused invitations to join the bloc. “We are proud of the work we have done as a council and the work we have done with our partner councils,
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?
Wynyard Wood Eastern Times 82x130 20260730.indd 1
30/07/2026 12:19
and we know that this came at a cost in being pulled away from our core work delivering for the communities in our district,” Bech says. “I have been adamant that council holds the pen and shows leadership on behalf of communities. We wanted to do what is in the best interests of the district and we still do. This process should deliver a good outcome for the region as a whole.” While work towards amalgamation may have been put on the back burner, it will resume. “We will await the outcome of the general election and the impact it will have on shaping the future of local government,” Bech adds. “We put our best proposal forward [and] prioritised the voices of our communities. This work should continue at pace so we are further advanced when [central] government comes back to the table.”
POLITICS
14 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
New schools for Drury C
onstruction is set to begin on a new specialist school in Drury, the first to be built in New Zealand in 50 years, while land for a future primary school is being secured. Expected to open its doors in early 2028, the specialist school will feature off-site-manufactured classrooms for up to 54 students. It will be purpose-built for pupils with high and complex needs, Minister of Education Erica Stanford confirms. “As construction begins on Drury Specialist School, families can be confident we are strengthening the specialist school network and delivering the infrastructure students need,” she says. “Demand for specialist education has exceeded available places, leaving many families with long waits and limited options. Significant waiting lists remain across Auckland’s specialist schools, so we needed to act.”
The school will also include whanau and therapy spaces, outdoor learning areas and dedicated pick-up and drop-off facilities. The school is one of three to be constructed nationwide under the government’s wider investment in specialist education infrastructure and learning environments. “We are giving families more choice by expanding access to specialist education and enabling more students to learn in environments designed for their needs,” Stanford says. “Every child deserves an education setting that meets their needs and helps them learn, grow and succeed.” Since mid-2024, approximately $320 million has been allocated to education improvements, the ministry adds. This includes new schools, additional classrooms, accessibility improvements and maintenance. The government is also
Minister of Education Erica Stanford at groundbreaking for Drury Photo supplied Specialist School. supporting growth in Franklin by progressing plans for a new primary school to be situated in Drury East. Residential growth in Drury is accelerating. Auckland Council forecasts more than 25,000 new homes, supporting a future population of approximately 60,000.
To meet this growth, a 3.2-hectare site has been identified as a potential location for the school and funding has been allocated for land purchase. Acquisition is already under way and expected to be completed “within the coming months,” Stanford expects.
CHT Karaka is now open!
CHT Karaka Care Home offers personcentred rest home, hospital and dementia care, with purpose-built facilities and gardens. Care, comfort, compassion, companionship and connectedness are at the heart of CHT Care Homes, with over 60 years of experience taking great care of older people. We invite you to email
karaka@cht.co.nz to find out more or arrange a time to visit. CHT Karaka 325 Bremner Road Karaka South Auckland Tel (09) 524 3777
NOW
OPEN
POLITICS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 15
Your champion for Papakura By EMMA CHATTERTON, National Party candidate for Papakura
I
’m standing in this election as I see enormous potential in Papakura and want to improve the lives of the people who call it home. Our growing electorate needs an MP who can help secure and deliver the infrastructure, roads, housing, health and education services our community needs. South Auckland is home. Generations of my family have lived and worked here: My great-grandparents farmed in Bombay, my grandparents near Kingseat, Dad was a policeman in Papakura, and Mum was an early childhood music teacher in Bombay. I was born in Pukekohe, grew up locally, attended Valley School and am currently living in Ardmore. I learned to fish at Kawakawa Bay, attended Brownie camps in Hunua and I also sang in a
local choir. I began my career in education as a teacher, both overseas and in New Zealand, before moving into social investment with a data and technology start-up. For the past two and a half years, I have worked as a senior advisor in Parliament, gaining experience in policy, budgets, legislation and delivering change through government. As a mum of four, I understand the pressures families face, from housing and groceries to healthcare and raising children. Having worked in a small business, I know the importance of tax settings that encourage investment, growth and jobs. The choice at this election is important. Labour means more tax, spending and debt. National will introduce no new taxes, back business, restore law and order, and continue investing in health and education. I’m standing to be a strong local advocate
THINKING ABOUT
LOCAL SOLAR INSTALLER
SOLAR? REGISTERED ELECTRICIANS
WE DESIGN & INSTALL
TALK TO SUBLIME SOLAR. www.sublimesolar.co.nz email: Info@sublimesolar.co.nz Holly 021 801 184 | Dan 021 066 2376
HOUSE WASH
LOCAL • PROFESSIONAL • EXPERIENCED
HOUSE • ROOF • FENCE • DRIVEWAY • PATIO Soft-wash for the best moss and lichen clean and treatment, exterior window cleaning, or general
waterblasting. 100m hose - access is no problem. FREE QUOTE
0800 737 777 | Andy 027 313 4386 atlasgroup@xtra.co.nz
Australasian Timber Flooring Association R
2025
Premium wood & laminate flooring supply, installation & finishing specialists
Emma Chatterton who shows up, gets things done and who ensures that Papakura has a strong voice in Wellington. Growth is both our biggest opportunity and challenge. The Papakura electorate, including Drury, is developing rapidly, and housing growth must be matched by roads, public transport, schools and healthcare. A new $34 million courthouse is being built, rail electrification to Pukekohe is complete, Drury railway station has opened, and Mill Road is back on the long-term transport agenda.
With no trades academy currently in the electorate, I will advocate for local vocational and industry-led opportunities so our students can be part of the future being built here. With a new hospital planned for Drury, I will also fight for its timely delivery. I will champion Papakura, supporting local businesses, improving safety and ensuring growth elsewhere does not come at the expense of a vibrant central Papakura. Our schools have received new classrooms and major learning support investment, while Drury Specialist School is due to open in 2027. We have also seen encouraging progress on retail crime and ram raids, which are down 85 percent nationally. There is much more to do. The challenge is ensuring infrastructure and services keep pace so Papakura remains a great place to live, work, raise a family and do business. > This is a sponsored column.
NOW OPEN SAT 10AM-1PM
CONTACT US FOR A FREE QUOTE 34B Allens Rd, East Tāmaki
visit JHF.co.nz or call 09 272 2890 today!
POLITICS
16 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
The simple choice This election is about a simple choice: a National Government with a clear plan to fix the basics and build the future, or a return to the policies that left New Zealand in recession, with higher debt and new taxes on the table. After inheriting an economic recession and debt of almost $180 billion from the previous Labour Government, our focus on fixing the basics in the economy has helped get New Zealand growing again. With 2.6 per cent growth in the year to June, our economy grew faster than Australia and similar countries over the same period. That’s forecast to create 220,000 more jobs over the next four years. National has made the
necessary choices to reprioritise wasteful spending so we can invest in frontline services without blowing the books, introducing new taxes, or loading on more debt. We’ve delivered real progress, but the job is not done yet. This election, my commitment to New Zealanders is: • Economic growth that delivers new jobs and higher wages. • No new taxes, so you keep more of what you earn. • Compulsory KiwiSaver with higher contributions and a $1,500 Baby Boost. • Paid Parental Leave extension from 26 to 30 weeks. • Better school results by replacing NCEA, introduc-
ing regular assessment, and teaching the basics brilliantly. • Tougher consequences for criminals and more police patrols. • Faster healthcare and more medicines on top of the 33 new cancer medicines already delivered. • Better infrastructure with Roads of National Significance, new classrooms, and new and upgraded hospitals. • A better deal at the supermarket by driving competition. • Books in surplus so we don’t saddle our kids with more debt or higher taxes. The choice at this election is now more clear than ever – it’s either National who has a plan to keep growing the
Prime Minister
Christopher Luxon economy, spending sensibly and paying down debt, with no new taxes or Labour, the Greens and their mates who would squander the surplus, leave New Zealand exposed with larger deficits and more debt and Kiwis paying the price through at least nine new taxes. The election will be close. Do not put New Zealand’s future at risk. Party vote National.
No such thing as a wasted vote
Our right to vote is precious. Every vote says something about the community we want to live in, the things we value, and what we expect from the people we send to Parliament. As we get closer to the election, there will be no shortage of people telling New Zealanders how they should vote. I think the only real waste is choosing not to have your say at all. Being an electorate MP is a privilege, but it comes with responsibilities that should be taken very seriously. An electorate deserves someone who knows the communities they represent, understands the problems they are dealing with, and can be held accountable. Our communities are growing rapidly, putting pressure on infrastructure and public services. We have issues to address in healthcare and maternity services, aged care, economic growth, immigration, organised crime, and community safety. Our farmers, growers, and small businesses deal with decisions made in Wellington, impacting them
New Zealand First MP
Casey Costello
on the ground. I have had the privilege of dealing with some of the big national issues as a minister. I am currently the Minister of Customs and Minister for Seniors, as well as Associate Minister of Health, Immigration, and Police. And I know that local issues need advocates. A policy can look good in the Beehive but looks very different
when it reaches a family, a school, a business, or a community hundreds of kilometres away. Strong electorate representation matters. Our electorate had one of the best examples of an electorate MP in the late Bill Birch. His decades of public service set the standard for political representation, and I aspire to live up to it. My career has taken me
from policing to business, advocacy and eventually Parliament, but the common thread has always been service. Counties is where I grew up and served in the police. It’s where I raised my children and ran my own business. I have spent most of my working life in south Auckland and have lived in Pokeno for the past decade. I understand that rights come with responsibilities and that people have every right to expect their MP to listen, turn up, know what is happening, and fight their corner. Whatever your choice on election day, just make sure you have your say.
POLITICS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 17
Planning for the future Drury is one of the fastest-growing parts of Franklin, and it’s important that we plan now for how people will move around their communities in the future. That’s why the Franklin Local Board is encouraging residents, businesses, schools and community groups to have their say on the proposed Drury Greenways draft plan. The draft plan sets out a long-term vision for a network of walking and cycling connections across the wider Drury area. The proposed network would connect neighbourhoods with schools, parks, playgrounds, community facilities, public transport hubs and town centres, while also making better use of streams and reserves to create attractive and environmentally friendly routes for recreation and everyday travel. The plan covers a large area stretching from Auranga through to Drury East and south towards Hunua Views and Ramarama, helping guide future investment as growth continues across the area.
Franklin Local Board chair
Alan Cole
While the draft plan has been developed with future growth in mind, we know local people are the experts when it comes to understanding how their communities work. That’s why we want to hear directly from residents about what is important to them. Are there missing links that should be included? Are there places that need better connections? What walking and cycling routes need
improvements to make it easier for you and your family to get around without relying on the car for every local trip? These are the types of questions we’re asking, and your feedback will help shape the final plan. As thousands of new homes are developed across Drury in the coming years, creating safe and convenient connections between homes, schools, parks, community facilities and pub-
lic transport will become increasingly important. The greenways plan is about creating healthier, more active and better-connected communities for current and future residents. Public feedback is open until October 22, and I encourage everyone with an interest in the future of Drury to take a few minutes to review the draft plan and share their views. Residents can provide feedback online, by email or post, and can also meet with the project team at a community drop-in session on Saturday, October 17 from 11am to 2pm at the Auranga Breast Cancer Fundraiser Community Event, Made Cafe, 183 Bremner Road, Drury.
Hurry up and wait To say I am disappointed by the central government delaying decisions on Head Start proposals until after the coming general election is an understatement. We worked hard to an impossible timeline – but nevertheless managed to put forward our proposal that we believe would see benefits to our communities, only to see that put in the “hurry up and wait” file for now, with an uncertain timeline from here. Head Start saw a condensed period of targeted engagement with communities and the feedback helped shape the proposal, which follows the natural pathway of the Waikato River from Taupo to Port Waikato, comprising five councils. In early August, both Hamilton City
and Taupo District Council voted the proposal down, but Waipa, South Waikato and Waikato District Council voted in favour and therefore met central government’s eligibility criteria of the majority of councils being in support. This process also triggered further engagement with Auckland, though they, as a unitary authority already (city and regional council combined), were excluded from putting in any proposals, and I am pleased that further discussions around the north of our district connecting in with Auckland’s bus and train network arose as a result. Franklin ward councillor Andy Baker has been very supportive as we both
acknowledge that locals on both sides of the “border” travel back and forth for work, school, shopping, sport and so on. We are currently investigating an extension to the Drury bus service that terminates at Ramarama, for this to come over the hill to Pokeno. This would be greatly valued by commuters, giving a real option to leave the car at home when heading into the city. Early days – but well worth working hard to achieve and a positive to come out of thinking more widely outside current council boundaries. Back to Head Start, and while there is frustration that the proposal has gone nowhere for now, there is also opportunity. I have
Waikato District Mayor
Aksel Bech
been adamant from the outset that council hold the pen and show leadership on behalf of communities. Together, we did that, and our community engagement clearly identified the importance of protecting local voice along with meaningful delegation for communities themselves, making local decisions where they can – this work will continue so we are further advanced when government comes back to the table.
69 - 77 Manukau Road, Pukekohe
winger.co.nz | 09 239 2389
*Offer available on eligible new Jaecoo J5 EV Summit vehicles purchased and delivered between 01/10/2026 and 31/10/2026. The 0% per annum finance offer is based on a $0 deposit and is fixed for the 12-month term of the loan and is only available on eligible new Jaecoo J5 EV Summit Models at MSRP plus on road costs of $1,450.00. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. The loan term cannot exceed 12 months, and structured payments are not available on this offer. A PPSR fee of $10.35, a monthly maintenance fee of $2, a UDC loan fee of $130, a dealer origination fee of $350 will apply. The loan is provided by UDC Finance Limited. UDC’s lending criteria and standard terms and conditions apply. While stocks last. Not redeemable for cash or available to fleet, gov’t or rental buyers. Omoda Jaecoo New Zealand reserves the right to extend, modify or withdraw this offer in its sole discretion.
MOTORING
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 19
WHEN YOUR CAR THINKS IT KNOWS BEST Modern cars are packed with technology designed to keep us safer, but sometimes those helpful electronic assistants can leave drivers wondering what on Earth their car is doing. Lane keeping assist (LKA) or lane assistance, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control are increasingly commonplace. While these systems can provide an invaluable extra layer of protection, they aren’t infallible. A dirty windscreen is one surprisingly common culprit. Many driver-assistance systems rely on cameras positioned near the rear-view mirror. Dirt, condensation, or even a poorly positioned sticker can interfere with their view. Radar sensors can also become obscured by mud and grime, while heavy rain, bright sunlight and road markings that are faded or temporarily altered through roadworks can make it harder for some systems to interpret their surroundings. Drivers may notice lane assistance tugging unexpectedly at the steering wheel or a collision warning appearing when
there seems to be no danger. Occasionally, autonomous braking can also react to something the driver has already identified and considers harmless. The answer isn’t necessarily switching everything off. Instead, get to know which safety systems your vehicle has, what they’re designed to do, and, importantly, their limitations. Your owner’s manual is worth
investigating, particularly after buying a different vehicle. Keep windscreens, cameras, and sensors clean, and pay attention to dashboard warnings indicating that a system is unavailable. Technology can make driving safer, but ultimately these systems are assistants rather than replacements for an attentive driver.
www.SouthernAutosJAC.co.nz
Traffic drama? @Tag the Times Email editor@franklintimes.co.nz franklintimesnz
www.franklintimes.co.nz
franklintimesnz
thehillpukekohe.co.nz
Join us for a special weekend OPEN DAY Saturday 17 October, 10am to 2pm Villa 9 - 66 Tuakau Road, Pukekohe.
Our Saturday Open Day is a great opportunity to bring friends and family to experience The Hill, Sanderson Group’s first luxury retirement village in Auckland, already home to a thriving community, now with Stage 3 villas under construction.
For more information call us today: 0800 88 77 79 Weekday showhome open hours: 10am to 2pm.
Developed by Sanderson Group - The Family Name in Luxury Retirement Living.
lifestyle block animals need on an annual basis?
TALK TO US TODAY
PETS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 21
CA EMAIL www.
VET TALK
KUNEKUNE JAW DISEASE Rural Living FVS Jan25.indd 2
K
unekunes are generally robust, easy-going little pigs that make great backyard companions, but they suffer from some particular diseases related to their unique facial anatomy. Kunekune mandibular disease occurs when food becomes trapped in an abnormal area of the lower jaw around the back teeth. Over time, the trapped material can damage the bone and lead to infection tracking up through the mandible. Eventually, this can break through the top of the jawbone and form a draining hole (fistula) on the face, often just below or behind the cheek and near the base of the ear. The first signs can be quite subtle. You might notice a small swelling, a lump that comes and goes, difficulty chewing, slower eating, weight loss, or a wound that
Dr Blair Van Dyk BVSc farm veterinarian
discharges foul-smelling green material. Some pigs remain surprisingly bright and well despite significant disease beneath the skin. The exact reason kunekunes are predisposed isn’t completely understood. Abnormal jaw shape and back-tooth positioning appear to play a role, and a genetic component is very likely. Importantly, this isn’t simply a case of a pig getting
something stuck in its mouth. If your kunekune develops a persistent facial swelling or draining wound, don’t
ignore it or assume it’s just an abscess. Get in touch with your local vet team to make a plan.
Looking for a healthcare solution that includes EVERYTHING your lifestyle block animals need on an annual basis?
TALK TO US TODAY CALL: 09 238 2471 EMAIL: lifestyle@fvs.co.nz www.franklinvets.co.nz FVS Lifestyle - Rural Living Jan26.indd 2
7/01/2026 10:23:58 am
22 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
CALF CLUB 2026 – PAT, THE LAMB AND OTHER STORIES… In addition to a little lamb (or several) at Patumahoe School’s Calf Club Day and Te Hihi School Agricultural Day (photos Susie Hare), Pukekohe East School also had animals taking centre stage during its Pet Day (Donna McKelvey) and John Hayward covered Aka Aka School’s Calf Club Day. Thanks to these Pukekohe Franklin Camera Club members for sharing their photos. For more photos from this year’s events, see the photos section at franklintimes.co.nz.
QUICK VOTE:
Are surging fuel prices forcing you to drive less?
Scan here to vote yes or no PREVIOUS POLL:
Should supermarket companies be split up to increase competition?
YES
46%
NO
54%
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 23
Elements Wave 3 ‘Grab & Go’ Mattress
Chiropractic Perform Pop Up Bed
Available rolled in a bag for easy transport. Grab one in-store.
Combining trusted back care into a smart, space-saving design.
459
QUEEN MATTRESS ONLY $ BedsRus Pukekohe
182/196 Manukau Rd
Elements Wave Queen on AdjustWave 1 Base
1,599
KING SINGLE NOW $ 09 238 1190
BedsRus Manukau
2,158
QUEEN NOW FROM $ 72 Cavendish Dr
09 392 0020
The Big Sale ends 03.11.26. Discount offers apply to selected beds and bedding only, prices as marked. Offers exclude Everyday Dream prices, run outs, clearance stock (unless otherwise stated) and not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. See in- store for details.
Feel Free at Franklin Village Secure your brand new villa Life at Franklin Village has a more relaxed rhythm. Set amongst beautifully landscaped grounds, it’s a place where you have more time for the things you enjoy. Start your morning with a swim in a pool you’ll never need to clean. Spend an afternoon in the workshop creating rather than fixing. Catch up with friends over coffee or enjoy a game of bowls. By the end of the day, you’ll be wondering where the time went. And feeling free doesn’t mean giving up the freedom of space. Our next stage of villas offers generous three-bedroom or twobedroom plus study layouts, all with double internal garaging.
Secure your preferred villa now and get ready to enjoy more freedom from early 2027. Contact our team today to book an appointment or register your interest. 44 McNally Road, Pukekohe, Auckland franklinvillage.co.nz 0800 333 688 *For residents 70 years and above. Villas are available under a licence to occupy. Images of villas are indicative only.
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 25
Three-year harvest begins By HELENA O’NEILL A popular recreation spot near Waiuku may be home to logging operations for the next three years, but forest users can still access the coastal woods. The forest’s southern entrance at Ghezzie Road is closed until further notice, with tracks in the southern area off-limits because of harvesting and associated safety hazards. The northern part of the forest remains accessible through Wilson Road, although Crown Forestry says it may be temporarily closed during unsafe conditions such as high winds. Paul Burridge, general
manager Crown Forestry, Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service, says the southern closure, which began in August, applies at all times, including weekends. The first stage of harvesting covers about 48 hectares and is expected to continue until December, before resuming in May or June next year following the completion of the first stage. “Access arrangements will be reviewed as operations progress. Where it is safe and practical, Crown Forestry may allow public access to the southern part of the forest during peak summer months.” About 136 hectares are
BOTANICA NIGHT CLASSES ARE HERE! 3 Candle Pouring 3 Kokedama 3 Art Classes 3 Terrariums 3 More Gather your friends. Make something beautiful. Franklin’s destination for beautiful gifts, homewares, plants & more. Featuring brands including: Frank Green • Pepper & Me • A’Live • Flox • B.Box + more PROUD HOME OF THE LOFT ON BOWEN, ON DEMAND REFORMER PILATES AND MICRO GYM BOOK ONLINE
PROUD HOME OF RIMU GULLY
Handcrafted natural skincare, soaps & candles made right here in Waiuku.
www.botanicaonbowen.co.nz - shipping nationwide 11 Bowen Street, Waiuku
expected to be harvested during the full three-year programme, he says. John Turkington Limited is managing the harvesting operation. Burridge says seven recreational user groups have been granted access to the forest, and between 20 and 30 events are usually held in the forest each year. Regular organised activities include horse trekking, orienteering, and four-wheel driving. Waiuku Forest was established by the former Public Works Department in 1932 as a protection forest to prevent the spread of sand onto adjacent farmland. Marram grass was planted to stabilise the sand, then tree lupin
Waiuku Forest. to provide nutrients and shelter for the pines, which were first planted in the 1930s. In 1966, the Crown entered into a 100-year mining licence with New Zealand Steel Limited to extract iron sand. Trees are cleared before mining can start, so a large area of the forest is not planted and is unavailable for public access. Once mining is complete over an area, mine tailings are re-spread, and the area is replanted. Most harvested land is expected to be replanted with radiata pine.
LISTEN TO OUR STORIES ON THE GO
franklintimes.co.nz
@franklintimes
HOME & GARDEN
26 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
HEALTHY HOME, HEALTHY PLANET EXPO A HIT From gardening and composting to recycling and repairing, the recent Healthy Home, Healthy Planet Expo proved that mending is actually better than ending in our Brave New World. As previously reported, the expo – held at Pukekohe’s PIA Events Centre – showcased a wide range of small efforts that really do add up, saving time, money and the environment. A warmer house, a smaller power bill and less in the bin were among the aims for the event, organised by Waiuku Zero Waste. Various exhibitors shared methods
Photos by John Hayward, Pukekohe Franklin Camera Club
with visitors, all designed to help us make the most of what we have and to make more of what we need. Among the exhibitors were Love Food Hate Waste, The Compost Collective, Wastewise and the Tread Lightly Caravan. Their subjects ranged from making the most of groceries to separating food scraps and understanding a household’s carbon footprint. Heat pumps and their role in home comfort were also on the agenda. The expo followed a similar event held in Waiuku in August. See waiukuzerowaste.co.nz for more information.
Photo supplied
We are not just a newspaper We’re online. We’re social. We’re local. Read the latest news – updated daily SCAN THE QR CODES OR VISIT WWW.FRANKLINTIMES.CO.NZ
WEBSITE
Fresh energy at Barfoot & Thompson Pukekohe
New branch manager, Ryan Young, puts people and community first, with a focus on strong relationships across Franklin. A familiar face, a fresh chapter, and a leader who puts people first. Pukekohe’s Barfoot & Thompson branch has recently had a spruce up as it welcomes Ryan Young, the new branch manager at the King Street office. Stepping into a leadership role is nothing new for Young. Since joining Barfoot & Thompson in 2014, he has built a reputation as both a successful salesperson and a capable leader, endorsed by colleagues and clients alike. “Pukekohe is a community that’s growing fast, but it still has a close-knit feel,” he says. “Taking up this position felt like a good opportunity to strengthen my ties to south Auckland.” Before taking the reins in Pukekohe, Young led teams at the company’s Papatoetoe and Glen Eden branches, learning what makes different communities thrive.
Today, his focus spans Pukekohe, Pokeno and Tuakau covering a range of residential, lifestyle and rural properties. Away from the office, Young is a busy dad with two boys, aged six and eight. If you’ve ever tried to usher two young kids out of the door on time, you’ll know he’s well practiced in negotiation, persuasion, and staying calm under pressure. Like any parent, Young understands how important the right home can be for growth and connection. He carries that
Pukekohe 09 238 7019 177 King Street, Pukekohe www.barfoot.co.nz
understanding into his leadership by creating the right conditions for each person to do well. His motivation stems from his belief that real estate, at its heart, is a people business. “My approach is people first, always. That’s what we care about, and by investing in those relationships we can understand our community and clients better,” he says. With his feet now comfortably under the local desk, Young marked the beginning of this new
chapter with a friends and family night where the team rolled out a red carpet. Familiar faces and local businesses were invited through the Barfoot & Thompson doors to enjoy a drink, a mingle, and a proper introduction to the team’s new leader. “We wanted to say thank you to the people and businesses who support us,” he says. “Rolling out the red carpet was a bit of fun, but more importantly it was a chance to celebrate a fresh chapter for the branch by bringing together our network.” With a buzzing turnout, Young says more networking events can be expected as the branch continues its people-first approach. Whether you’re thinking about selling, looking for your next home, after stress-free property management or simply curious about the local market, pop into the King Street office for a chat.
BUSINESS
28 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
ADVERTORIAL
CHRISTMAS DINNER, Profit SORTED: from our MY FOOD BAG GIVING KIWIS MORE CHOICE Knowledge A fortnightly series helping local homeowners get the most from their biggest asset.
Part 7: The Bathroom Bathrooms can be a real make-or-break room for buyers. They do not need to be new or expensive, but they absolutely need to feel clean, fresh and cared for. If you are preparing your home for the market, think about polishing the diamond rather than reinventing the wheel. You may be surprised by what you can achieve with what you already have. Start with a serious clean. Scrub the shower glass, clean the grout, polish the taps and make those mirrors sparkle. Mould, mildew and grime are immediate turn-offs and can leave buyers wondering what else may have been neglected. Next, clear the clutter. Toothbrushes, razors, shampoo bottles and washing baskets should disappear for photos and open homes. Bring out your best towels, add a nice soap dispenser or plant and let in as much natural light as possible. Look at the little maintenance jobs too. Refresh tired silicone, repair cracked tiles, replace a worn shower curtain or toilet seat, and fix dripping taps or loose handles. If the bathroom is looking particularly tired, you may be pleasantly surprised at what a simple refresh can achieve without a full renovation. It is also worth considering moisture before going to market, particularly around tiled showers. Deteriorating silicone, cracked tiles or failed seals can lead to elevated moisture readings in a building inspection. In my experience, it is far better to identify and address genuine maintenance issues before you go to market than have them become an unwelcome surprise during the sale process. You are not trying to create a luxury spa overnight. Clean it. Simplify it. Make it shine. Polish the diamond you already have. Are You Thinking About Selling? Now’s the time to get moving, with Diana’s spring promotion receive up up to $2,026 CASH BACK on marketing, with no auction fees. Don’t Delay Call Diana Today
multi award winner
Diana Cussen 027 225 8131 | d.cussen@barfoot.co.nz
My Food Bag co-founder Nadia Lim.
Photo supplied
For more than a decade, My Food Bag has been helping Kiwis take some of the work out of Christmas, with the ingredients, recipes and shopping taken care of and delivered straight to the door. This year, My Food Bag is making it easier to make Christmas dinner your own, with a choice of proteins across its Classic Christmas Small, Classic Christmas Large and Gourmet Christmas Bags. Alongside these are Vegan Christmas and Bargain Box Christmas options, giving families different ways to put their own spin on the big day. The Classic Christmas Bag brings together the Christmas favourites Kiwis know and love, with a choice of New Zealand free-range ham, lamb, salmon or turkey, alongside an entrée, festive sides and dessert. There’s also plenty to look forward to after the main event, with this year’s tropical pavlova a particular favourite of My Food Bag co-founder Nadia Lim. “I think this year's pavlova is my favourite,” she says. “I love tropical flavours like passionfruit and pineapple, and pavlova is such a classic Christmas dessert. It feels like the perfect way to finish a Christmas meal.” For something a little more indulgent, the Gourmet Christmas Bag features New Zealand beef scotch with a choice of free-range ham or pork belly, while the Vegan Christmas Bag brings a completely plantbased feast to the table, finished with a veganmisu. And for those feeding a crowd while keeping an eye on the Christmas budget, Bargain Box Christmas serves eight to 10 or more people and includes all the crowd-pleasers needed for the big day, for $299.99. Christmas dinner might be one of the biggest meals of the year, but getting it on the table doesn’t have to mean hours of planning or a trolley piled high at the supermarket. With the ingredients, recipes and shopping taken care of, all that’s left to do is cook, serve and enjoy. The My Food Bag and Bargain Box Christmas menus are available to order now, with delivery in time for Christmas. For more information and to view the full range of Christmas menus, visit www.myfoodbag.co.nz/christmas.
Real Estate Roundup
www.times.co.nz | Friday, July 17, 2026 | 1
LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERTS YOU CAN TRUST
Rachel & Jiha
21 PROPERTIES SOLD IN 2026
And we’re not slowing down.
Rachel Johnson 027 553 7808 Jiha Chung 021 320 672
정지혜
City South Investments 20 019 Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)
Get to know...
Rachel & Jiha In a market where every detail counts, Rachel and Jiha have built a reputation for results. So far in 2026, they've sold 22 properties across Karaka and surrounds and they're recognised among the Alan White Elite top 3% of Ray White nationwide. What sets them apart is how they work. Every home gets its own strategy, from pricing and marketing through to the final negotiation. They read the market closely, match buyers with the right property and hold firm when it matters most, always with calm, steady confidence. Their clients are just as varied as the homes they sell and benefit from the team's clear communication and KoreanEnglish bilingual service, which opens the door for even more people to feel understood. Awarded RateMyAgent Agent of the Year 2026 for Karaka an award won more than once, Rachel and Jiha pair awardwinning performance with a down-to-earth, personal approach. When you're ready to make your move, they're ready to deliver.
Rachel Johnson 027 553 7808
rachel.johnson@raywhite.com
정지혜
Jiha Chung 021 320 672
jiha.chung@raywhite.com
Ray White Karaka
City t South Inve ty v stments 2019 Limited Licensed (REAA ve A 2008) AA
YOUR LOCAL EXPERT
ADRIAN MONTAGNA 027 604 1994
adrian.montagna@raywhite.com
Top 11% Ray White Agents, Internationally
ALPHA TEAM Your Dream Is Our Passion!
GARY CAPPER A trusted name in Franklin gary.capper@bayleys.co.nz
021 550 707
Eric Xue Cassie Su 021 217 9229 022 587 3340 c.su@barfoot.co.nz
021 126 4805
e.xue@barfoot.co.nz
With Alpha Team by your side, the sky’s the limit!
BUSINESS
30 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Building homes and rebuilding lives This October, Smith & Sons are going pink to raise funds for breast cancer research. Our entire team at Smith & Sons Franklin will be wearing pink all month long, raising awareness and asking our community one important question: Who are you pinking for? Smith & Sons Franklin owner Melissa van den Brink says the campaign is close to their hearts. “We’re doing this because a lot of women we know have been affected by breast cancer, and a lot of the men on the team also know people affected by this. “Everyone who donates to our fundraising page can tell us who they are pinking for – a mum, sister, aunty, friend, or someone special whose life has been touched by breast cancer.” One hundred percent of the funds will go towards researching a cure via Breast Cancer Cure.
with plenty of pink goodies and vouchers up for grabs, plus two runner-up prize packs.
“Our slogan for this campaign is: We build homes. This October, we help rebuild lives.” Jo May from Smith & Sons’ head office is spearheading the campaign. “Four years ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. A full mastectomy, three surgeries, and more specialist visits than I
THINKING OF RENOVATING? WE MAKE IT EASY Whether you’re upgrading a kitchen, refreshing a bathroom, building a deck, or transforming your entire home, we’ve got you covered! 19 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe 2120 09 947 9533 franklin@smithandsons.co.nz smithandsons.co.nz
can count. This October, I’m putting our whole network behind the women still in the middle of it. All 22 Smith & Sons offices, one nationwide fundraiser for breast cancer research.” Breast Cancer Cure was built on the belief that investing in world-class breast cancer research here in New Zealand could genuinely change outcomes. From the outset, the mission has been clear: to fund transformative research that improves precision in prevention, enables earlier and more accurate diagnosis, advances treatment, and ensures equitable outcomes and quality of life for all those affected by breast cancer. Builders and office staff have donned bright pink Smith & Sons shirts, with some builders embracing the pink tutu on their building sites. “I’m just really proud of the guys. They’ve really got behind it. When I was having my treatment, I had a house full of flowers, literally. Across the network, they all banded together and bought the most thoughtful gifts. I’m proud of them for getting into it and getting behind it, and I think they’re all having a bit of fun.” With 22 regional franchises under the national Smith & Sons banner, the team hopes to raise around $50,000. “If each branch raises $2000, that’s nearly $50,000. I wanted to do something that I thought would make a difference,” Jo says. Smith & Sons Franklin has one vintage pink chilly bin packed
How to enter: 1. Follow Smith & Sons Franklin on Facebook or Instagram. 2. Comment on the prize post with the name of the person you’re entering for. That can be you or someone you think deserves a treat. 3. Donate any amount using the link in the QR code below and make sure Smith & Sons Franklin is selected as the team. Entries close at 5pm on Saturday, October 31. Winners will be announced on our Facebook and Instagram on Monday, November 2. Enter for your chance to win and help us support a great cause along the way!
DONATE HERE
Smith & Sons Franklin, owned by locals Lane and Melissa van den Brink, completes quality home renovations throughout the Franklin region. Using a simple three-step process, they can support you through your whole renovation project – from design through to building completion. Lane is a qualified, licensed builder who leads a team with local knowledge and building experience to do a great job working on your home. Their strong planning, project management, and problem-solving skills will help keep your renovation on time and on budget. Smith & Sons Franklin can help with all kinds of house alterations and extensions – from bathroom and kitchen renovations, garage conversions or minor dwellings through to total home makeovers. Our skilled team can also carry out exterior recladding, construct great outdoor living areas or handle your new build project from start to finish.
BUSINESS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 31
Auckland drops off $1m mark
By JON RAWLINSON
T
he average Auckland house price has dropped below the $1 million mark for the first time in six years, however the Franklin market appears to be marching along to a different tune. Although Franklin’s average is below the overall average for the Super City, prices are heading in another direction, Vanessa Williams from realestate.co.nz confirms. “Franklin is particularly interesting because it’s moving differently from the wider Auckland market. Auckland’s average asking price has softened year-on-year, but Franklin’s has increased,” she told the Times. “With an average asking price of $934,824, Franklin remains below the million-dollar mark, but the district has recorded 4.7 per cent growth compared with last September, when the district recorded an average
Times file photo asking price of $892,630.” Released last week, figures show Auckland’s average asking price for September was $993,562, more than a quarter of a million dollars below its January 2022 peak of $1,274,829. “A million-dollar average asking price [has] felt almost synonymous with Auckland, so dropping back below that level is notable. But it also
creates opportunity, particularly for buyers who’ve been waiting on the sidelines.” A rise in the number of properties on the Auckland market, in general, and asking prices well below their peak have created one of the most buyer-friendly markets the city has seen in years, Williams confirms. It’s not the same here in Franklin where there are
more houses up for sale without a similar drop in prices. “Franklin has also experienced substantial growth in new listings [during this] September, with 19.6 per cent more coming onto the market than at this time last year,” Williams adds. “The combination of growing choice and a lower average asking price than Auckland overall could make Franklin appealing to buyers who want to remain within the region while being prepared to look beyond the central city for more options.” General elections usually slow the market as people take a ‘wait and see’ approach, but increases in new listings show the election isn’t deterring sellers, Williams says. “In Franklin, sellers certainly aren’t deterred by the impending election and it’s giving buyers more choice at a time when many are weighing up where their budget can take them.”
BUSINESS
32 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
ALCOHOL LICENSING AND WHAT BUSINESSES NEED TO KNOW For businesses that sell or supply alcohol, holding a licence comes with important legal obligations. Understanding those obligations, and knowing what to do when issues arise, can make a signifi-
cant difference in protecting your business and your licence. At Franklin Law, Associate Solicitor James Cartwright has experience assisting clients with matters under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, including licensing issues involving the Police, District Licensing Committees (DLCs) and the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority (ARLA).
UNDERSTANDING YOUR ALCOHOL LICENCE The Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 provides for a number of different types of alcohol licences, including on-licences, off-licences, club licences and special licences. Each type of licence comes with its own requirements, conditions and responsibilities. Licence holders must ensure that their premises and operations comply with the conditions
of their licence and the requirements of the Act. These can include matters such as trading hours, the management of licensed premises, the availability of food and non-alcoholic drinks, and requirements relating to the responsible sale and supply of alcohol. Problems can arise when a business is alleged to have breached its licence conditions or other requirements under the legislation. In some circumstances, this can lead to proceedings before a District Licensing Committee or matters being considered by ARLA.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH YOUR LICENCE?
If you are contacted by Police, a licensing inspector or another regulatory authority about your alcohol licence, it is important
Associate, Franklin Law
James Cartwright to understand the implications before responding or appearing at a hearing.
DEPENDING ON THE CIRCUMSTANCES, ISSUES CAN INCLUDE:
Concerns about compliance with licence conditions; objections to an application for or renewal of an alcohol licence. www.franklinlaw.co.nz Phone 0800 842 972
NEW ZEALAND-MADE ENGAGEMENT RINGS CRAFTED IN AUCKLAND An engagement ring represents one of life’s most meaningful commitments. At TJ Gold & Diamond, the company says that commitment is reflected in rings designed and manufactured at its Auckland jewellery workshop. From consultation and CAD design through to casting, stone setting, polishing and final quality control, TJ Gold & Diamond says its jewellery is made in-house. The company says this allows it to maintain control over manufacturing and offer customers direct pricing. TJ Gold & Diamond is a licensed FernMark business, with licence number 101327. The company also describes its jewellery as New Zealand-made. Customers can choose from lab-grown and natural diamond engagement rings, including solitaire, halo, trilogy, split-shank and custom-designed styles. Rings are available in platinum and 18ct yellow, white or rose gold, with designs tailored to customers’ preferences and budgets. TJ Gold & Diamond says its engagement rings are supported by a Buy Back Guarantee, Lifetime Manufacturing Guarantee and complimentary maintenance for life, including professional
NOW AT Unit B1, 169 Harris Rd, East Tamaki
cleaning, inspections and selected servicing. By manufacturing locally and selling directly to customers, the company says it can reduce the number of intermediaries involved between manufacturing and sale.
Jewellery Manufacturing & Custom Design
www.tjdiamond.co
Unit B1, 169 Harris Road, East Tamaki | Open 7 days a week 10am-5pm | 022 493 7313
BUSINESS
FIVE KEY QUESTIONS
FOR BUSINESS OWNERS Running a business leaves little time to work on it. Ask yourself these five questions to gauge where you’re at.
2. Do you have the numbers you need? Your business is driven by data. Which metrics matter most, and where would detailed data give you better control?
GETTING FINANCE PRE-APPROVED
BEFORE YOU START SHOPPING BRAD WISEMAN, Director and founder of Finance Worx, Pukekohe
1. Are you meeting your cashflow goals? Which costs are holding you back from positive cashflow? Identify your challenges and tighten your cash process.
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 33
4.Is growth part of your strategy? Do you want to scale quickly, grow organically or stay small?
5. What’s your tech strategy?
Spring is when a lot of us start thinking about a new ute, SUV or family car, especially with summer road trips on the horizon. But before you start looking, it’s worth knowing what you can actually spend. That’s why it pays to sort your finance first, not after you’ve found the one.
At Engine Room AI and digital systems are integral to many business models. Where we think businesses are you on this journey, and what’s 3. Where do you see your your next step? business in five years? Atdeserve Engine Room more from Busy owners focus on the now, but Read all 10 questions at we think businesses without a forward-looking focus engineroomca.co.nz or contact their accountants deserve more fromus on 09 238 5939 to run a business health check and take the their accountants next step towards success. If you want to be successful in 2026,
you can lose direction. Where do you want to be, and how will you get there?
Knowing your budget upfront helps prevent you falling in love with something outside your means, or under calculating what you could actually afford. It also puts you in a stronger position when it comes to the deal itself. A seller or dealer takes a buyer seriously when they know the funds are ready to go. That can work in your favour on price or terms, since there’s no uncertainty hanging over the sale. It also takes the time pressure off, so you’re not rushed into a decision. At Finance Worx, we help clients get sorted early, whether you’re buying in Franklin or further afield, so when the right vehicle comes along, you are ready to move with confidence.
At Engine Room weIfIfIf can help with: you you you want want want to to be be besuccessful successful successful in in in2016, 2016, 2016, we we we can can can help help helpto with: with: with:
wein think businesses If you want to be successful 2026, deserve more Tax Tax Tax compliance compliance compliance Tax compliance weIfIfIf can help with: you want be you want to be successful in 2016, you want to besuccessful successfulin in2016, 2016, from we can help with: we can help with: we can helpto with: their accountants Business Business Businessstructuring structuring structuring Business structuring Tax Tax compliance Taxcompliance compliance Tax compliance Cloud Cloud Cloud technology technology technology solutions solutions solutions Strategies to support growth Business Business structuring Businessstructuring structuring If you want to be successful in 2026, Business structuring weIfIfIf can help with: you want be you you want want to to be besuccessful successful successfulin in in2016, 2016, 2016, we can help with: we can help with: we can helpto with: and performance Cloud technology solutions Cloud Cloud technology technology solutions solutions Strategies to support growth Tax Tax compliance Taxcompliance compliance Tax compliance and performance Business Business Businessstructuring structuring structuring Business structuring
If you want a team who really Cloud solutions Cloud Cloudtechnology technology technology solutions solutions Strategies to support growth
IfIfIfyou you you are are are looking looking for for for an an anaccountant accountant accountant who who and performance who If you want a looking team who really understands business, contact us to IfIfIfyou are for an who who you are looking for an accountant you arelooking looking for anaccountant accountant who If you want acall team who really really really really understands understands understands business, business, business, call call us us us now now now IfIfIfyou are for accountant who who you you are arelooking looking looking for foran an an accountant accountant who understands business, contact us to understands business, contact us to arrange a discovery call 0800 236 446 really really understands understands business, business, call call us now reallyon understands business, callus usnow now really really business, business, call call us us now now really understands business, call us now arrange a236 discovery call 446 on 0800 236 446 for for forunderstands aunderstands aaano no no obligation obligation obligation chat chat on on on 0800 0800 0800 236 236 236 446 446 arrange discovery callchat on 0800 446 for for aaano no obligation obligation chat chat on 0800 236 236 446 for no obligation chaton on0800 0800 236446 446 or 236 get in 446 touch through our website at for for aaano no obligation obligation chat chat on on 0800 236 foror no obligation chat on0800 0800 236 446 get in touch through our website at or or visit us us at at engineroomca.co.nz orvisit visit us446 atengineroomca.co.nz engineroomca.co.nz engineroomca.co.nz or get in touch through our website at or or orvisit visit visit us us us at at at engineroomca.co.nz engineroomca.co.nz engineroomca.co.nz or or visit us us at at engineroomca.co.nz engineroomca.co.nz orvisit visit us at engineroomca.co.nz engineroomca.co.nz engineroomca.co.nz
+64 9 295 1700 rc@ricecraig.co.nz www.ricecraig.co.nz 8–10 Queen Street, Papakura, Auckland
Large enough to deliver — small enough to care. Property & Commercial Law
Rural Law
Estate Planning & Trusts
Wills & Estates Administration
Employment Law
Family Law
Criminal & Civil Litigation
Serving Your Community Since 1924
BUSINESS
34 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Dos and don’ts of investing By KERRY LEE
P
Photo stock image cial advisors, and we always suggest clients get in touch with them to ensure they fully understand the investment.” Slater recommends starting small and making regular contributions, while spreading the risks across multiple investment categories, rather than putting all our eggs in one basket. We should also review progress regularly, and it is
Lev l2,Campbel TysonBusines Centre,3WesleyStre t, Puke ohe | forsythbar .co.nz | (09)918920
crucial that we don’t allow our emotions to get in the way or make rash reactions to shortterm market movements. “Start by setting a clear goal and timeframe. Build an emergency fund, deal with expensive debt and only invest money you can afford to leave invested,” Slater advises. While accountants can assist with understanding tax, cashflow and financial
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
reporting for an investment, an expert financial advisor is recommended. “An accountant cannot advise whether a particular investment is suitable,” Slater adds. “So, before making investment decisions, people should seek advice from a licensed financial adviser who can assess their personal circumstances, goals and risk tolerance.”
PUK7832-02 PUK7832-02 - June- 2026 June 2026
eople might fantasise about putting money into the next Amazon or Apple, striking it rich and retiring early, but savvy investing is usually more about good management than just good luck. To begin with, we need to know why we’re investing and how long we’re prepared to tie up our money. A senior accountant at Pukekohe’s Hunter Withers, Sarah Slater says that the most common mistake people make when investing is not taking enough time to understand how an investment works, how returns are generated, what may cause the value of the investment to fall, and what fees or restrictions apply. “If something sounds too good to be true or promises unusually high returns with little risk, that should be treated cautiously,” she says. “We work with great finan-
BUSINESS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 35
Lifestyle Asphalt
IS BACK
Charles Miller writes that a lot can be learned from history’s first File photo supplied John Baker / Pexels steeplechase race.
Strategy starts with a steeple By CHARLES MILLER
I
n 1752, two Irishmen settled a bet by racing on horseback from the church at Buttevant to the steeple at Doneraile, four and a half miles away. They fixed their eyes on the spire and rode, crossing hedges, streams and ditches, relying on judgement and instinct. That tussle was the first steeplechase. The steeple was the purpose. Everything else was terrain and tactics. Business strategy is often made to sound complicated. It isn’t. Before worrying about products, markets or competitors, decide why you do what you do, and where you are riding. For most small businesses, purpose starts with the owner’s reason for being in business. Unlike a listed company, an SME is usually there to build a particular life as well as earn a living. If your business and personal goals point towards different steeples, sooner or later you will get lost. An owner-operator gardener is a good example. The purpose may not be to build the largest gardening business in town. It might be to earn a comfortable income, work four days a week, stay fit, spend Fridays fishing and be known as the go-to gardener. The need isn’t mowing lawns.
It’s helping people enjoy well-kept gardens and giving owners peace of mind when they lack the time or ability to do it themselves. That need is unlikely to disappear. But purpose needs testing. Imagine a small family café whose steeple is providing a good family living while becoming the local place where people meet. Now ask some harder questions. If the café becomes twice as busy, does that take the family closer to its purpose, or further away? If customers demand evening opening, does more revenue justify losing family evenings? If competitors discount coffee, must we follow? If every café competes on price, margins fall. If ours refuses and concentrates instead on becoming the neighbourhood meeting place, will customers value that enough to stay? What might competitors do next? And what would we then do? These questions don’t yet tell us which route to take. Instead, they test whether we’ve chosen the right steeple. Products change. Markets change. Technology changes. Owners age and ambitions change. A strong purpose sits above all of them, connecting an enduring customer need with what the owners want their business to achieve. > Full story at www.times.co.nz
Lifestyle Asphalt is back with a simple message for property owners: Now’s the time to get in touch and talk about your driveway. With over 40 years of experience in the asphalt industry, Lifestyle Asphalt Ltd has built a Hannah and Tom reputation for delivering quality workmanship, reliability, and outstanding customer service. Tom took a break from the industry to serve with the New Zealand Police but has decided to relaunch the business. “While I valued that experience, my passion for asphalt and roading never left me,” he says. “Today I’m proud to be bringing Lifestyle Asphalt Ltd back. Although our focus is now on smaller projects, our commitment to quality remains exactly the same. We continue to uphold the high standards, strong work ethic, and attention to detail that earned us an excellent reputation and we are looking forward to delivering the same trusted service to every customer.” Lifestyle Asphalt offers a complete service for asphalt and driveway needs. A driveway is an everyday part of a property, but one that can make a considerable difference to how a place looks and functions. It is the route home after work, the space where visitors arrive, and, often, the first impression of what lies beyond the gate. For anyone considering an upgrade, the starting point is understanding what the site needs. The size of the area, its current condition, how vehicles use it, and where water flows are all important factors to consider before deciding on a project. Tom and the team can tackle your section clearing, car park repairs, fix potholes, offer digger and operator hire, truck and driver hire, driveway regrading, kerbing, seal coating and much more. Now is a great time to take the next step. A quote can help turn a broad idea into a clearer picture of the work involved and the likely cost. Whether the goal is to improve an entrance or explore options for an existing driveway, discussing the property requirements first can help establish what is practical. Contact Tom on 027 449 1965 for a free quote, or check out facebook.com/lifestyleasphalt
Ph 0274 491 965 or 0274 426 114 Email lifestyleasphalt@xtra.co.nz
lifestyleasphalt
EDUCATION
36 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Fair results for scientists F
rom the weird to the wonderful, many bright ideas were showcased recently at science fairs in Auckland and Hamilton. Among the many budding Einsteins and Hawkings were pupils from Tuakau College, the school’s principal Donna Tupaea confirms. “We were thrilled for our students,” she says. “It’s the first time our school has competed at either of these science fairs [details below] in a number of years, so we were so pleased that they achieved such outstanding results.” At the NIWA South and East Auckland STEM Fair, held at Saint Kentigern College, year 10 students Armani Phillips and Olivia Islip placed third in the Living World category. Their research was titled From Glam to Scram: Biodegradable Glitter and the Cardiac Impact on Daph-
Jasmeen Kaur, Zoe Martin and Aania Baloch. nia magna. Focused on how eco-friendly glitters influence the heart rates of Daphnia magna (known as water fleas), their research highlights the importance of understanding the environmental impacts of biodegradable materials in aquatic ecosystems. At the NIWA Waikato
Photo supplied
Regional Science and Technology Fair in Hamilton, year 10 pupil, Zoe Martin was third in the Senior Invention and Technical Innovation category thanks to her project, Injection, Illusion and Infiltration. Martin aimed to help young people understand various risks associated with
hacking as well as practical ways to protect themselves from cyber threats. In addition, Aania Baloch and Jasmeen Kaur (also both from year 10 at Tuakau College) were third in the Living World category while also winning the Earth Sciences NZ Award. Their study was titled Killing Me Soap-ly: Agapanthus Rhizome Extracts and its Effect on the Heart Rate of Daphnia magna. Similar to their classmates, Phillips and Islip, Baloch and Kaur sought to determine how various concentrations of saponin extracted from agapanthus rhizomes affect the heart rate of water fleas. Investigating potential effects provides insight into how compounds released by invasive plants, such as agapanthus, may affect aquatic microfauna and contribute to changes within freshwater ecosystems.
ForOdinary Let’schat
Getinouch
EDUCATION
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 37
PRINCIPAL IN PERSON
Kylee Jefferies, Alfriston College How long have you been an educator, and where did you train? I have been an educator for 15 years, having worked across west, north and south Auckland during this time. I completed my teacher training through the Auckland University of Technology Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makau Rau. When did you become the principal of Alfriston College? I joined the school in 2024 after being appointed to the role.
What’s the best thing about being an educator and principal? It’s the privilege of being surrounded by amazing rangatahi (young people) every day. Our young people are talented, caring, tolerant, capable and incredibly generous – adults can learn so much from them. We have to afford our young people time and patience, and make sure we genuinely listen to understand before responding. They are the window into our future, and we must ensure we nurture our chil-
Kylee Jefferies
dren if we want our world to be a better place. What’s special about Alfriston College? The people – our learners, staff, whanau and wider school community. Is there anything that you’d like improved in the education/ school management sector? We need more rangatahi aspiring to be educators. Teaching is an incredibly rewarding career, and one where you have great work stories. If we are to have more young people enter-
To chat about your own barn-style home, contact
BRU GOLDFINCH
P: 021 215 8368 E: bru@homesbynest.nz www.homesbynest.nz
ing the profession, then we must truly value the worth of teachers in society, and this means we must remunerate teachers accordingly. How is the relationship between Alfriston College and its immediate local community? We have meaningful, authentic, and connected relationships with our school community. At Alfriston College, we have supportive whanau who want the best outcomes for their children. They are engaged with our kura (school) and actively involved in their
children’s education, volunteer their time with a wide range of extracurricular activities and they always support our events and our celebrations. How’s the immediate future looking? Education is always changing – we’re constantly refining what we do to meet the needs of our young people. In this current climate, the pace of change is rapid, and as educators, we must make sure that we continue to do what we know works for our young people within our own contexts.
, emories m g n i t a r cre re’s the e ‘ Whethe h , m e dling th or rekin do it’ place to
38 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
OUR PEOPLE
ANDREW Q&A BAYLY with
After 12 years representing the Port Waikato electorate, MP Andrew Bayly has retired from politics. HELENA O’NEILL caught up with Bayly at his electorate office before he and wife Tina move to the South Island.
How would you describe Parliament? There is a lot of tradition to it, and there are high levels of intensity and pressure. That level of trust with information is quite something. Parliament itself is a very different beast, and even though I had an appreciation of Parliament, no one really knows what Parliament’s like until you’re there.
You walk out across the bridge, and 50 reporters are standing, waiting for you with their cameras trained on you as you walk across, and you don’t know quite what they’re going to ask. Most people never have that level of scrutiny, and one will have a line of questioning, and then someone else will throw you a different line, and often the same question, but in a different format. Getting used to that is quite something, and so you know most new MPs have no idea intuitively. After a while, you get to a point where you understand intuitively, but it does help if you know your topic. Parliament itself is very confrontational. It is set up in the bear pit of the chamber. Some people love the blood sport, and there’s a great deal of theatre to Parliament, particularly in Question Time. The real work is done in select committees. And that’s usually pretty collaborative, and more so than what people realise.
Right now, at election time, it’s all about smashing each other’s ideas. But actually, during the out-of-election cycle (although you can argue that we’re never out of the election cycle), tolerance for new ideas and people is really important. And to some extent, I think that’s gone. But I think that’s not just in Parliament. You see it on social media now: someone put up a post. You get a lot of racism, and you get a lot of hate detracting from the conversation. Someone being different or having a different idea, in most cases, you should welcome it. But you know you don’t have to agree with it. Everyone’s entitled to their own ideas, and I think crucially, we have a risk that we’re becoming less tolerant. Part of that is due to Covid-19.
You mentioned the Covid-19 pandemic was particularly tough on the electorate in your valedictory speech? Electorate work is not just about the good times. People often come to their MP because something has gone wrong. Sometimes something is terribly wrong. Nothing affected me more deeply than the suicides during Covid19. The Auckland boundary did not simply divide my electorate on a map. It divided families and communities. People who lived only a few kilometres apart suddenly found themselves on the opposite sides of it. One family had a son living nearby who was struggling with serious mental health issues. They believed the restrictions meant they could not visit him. After three days trying to contact him, they emailed me. I said, ‘Please get in the car. Just go to him now.’ They found that he had taken his life three days earlier; we then had to help bury their son under Covid-19 restrictions. At the very moment they
OUR PEOPLE
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 39
Andrew Bayly with Pukekohe staff Sally and Lynne. most needed people around them, the rules kept these people apart. As we all know in Parliament, there are things in politics we celebrate. There are things that we defend, and there are things that we always carry. I have carried that ever since.
What would you say to an aspiring MP? In my valedictory speech, I mentioned that my wife and I had a death threat. Politics was my choice. The death threat that named Tina and our boys was not something she chose. I talked about that level of people imposing on public lives. Now, you know, the big issue with that is whether people want to still want to keep doing a job like this. It’s a huge trade-off to get into the public sphere, be subject to a lot of social media, and have the potential for all those other things. So you’ve got to be dedicated.
What we don’t want to do is to end up with kids that come out of university who ... work in a ministerial office, never worked largely outside of that, and then end up running the country. That’s the last thing we want. People have got to have good practical experience, and not just business experience. You know, it could be union, teachers, or whatever. In Parliament, you want to have that big diversity of people and thinking, and I think democracy is increasingly at risk because of these recent trends. You’ve just got to get out there and earn people’s confidence. There are stories of MPs who used to brag about how many functions they would go to in a night. This idea of going to every function, walking in, making sure everyone sees you, and then buggering off – I think that’s just the worst thing. When you’re an electorate MP, you need to go there and be present.
Bayly at the South Pole, Antarctica in 2012.
How has the electorate changed over the past 12 years – other than the name change from Hunua to Port Waikato? Obviously, the population has grown heaps here in the last 12 years, and there has been a lot of development, particularly into our horticultural growing land. Well, I’ve waged a 12-year battle to make travel to keep the elite soils free of houses. Damn houses on fantastic soils are just going to be a perennial problem. The trouble is that once it’s gone, we will end up importing all our horticulture. The other big area I’m worried about is the loss of indoor glasshouses, which employ about 2000 people, with many of those glasshouses coming to an end because the gas prices have gone totally out of control.
What’s next for you? We’re off on holiday for a few weeks before moving to Central Otago. It’s been busy packing up the house, so the Coromandel will be lovely. I’ve got a board role in Australia, and I’m looking for another in Asia. Not because I particularly want board roles, but I want to get reconnected with Australia and Asia, where it’s all happening. When I had a merchant bank, we had offices in New Zealand, Australia, and Singapore. I want to get a better feel for what’s happening over there, both economically and politically. There are big, big changes going on. Artificial intelligence (AI), climate change, and open banking. Open banking and AI are particularly of interest to me. Big seismic shifts are going on, but New Zealand’s finally located in the right place, next door to the fastest-growing economies in the world. How do we better align New Zealand with those emerging, growing yet very significant economies?
HEALTH & WELLBEING
40 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
HEART & SOLE FOR SOULS By ISABELLA ROOT
to open up.”
After running 250 kilometres to raise money ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10), Bombay’s Cooper Smith may have lost a little hop in his step, but he still celebrated with hops in his glass.
It may even save a life.
“I went to the pub and had a beer with my family and all my mates,” he says. “It tasted very good after 35 hours [of running]!” The decision to set off on his run didn’t come overnight. After witnessing some of his mates struggle with mental health and weathering a tough year of his own, the 18-year-old had seen the importance of speaking up. Smith felt it was time to join the conversation and encourage others to do so as well. “There’s a huge stigma about men and mental health – you sort of have to tough it out and you’ll be right, but I learned pretty quickly that’s not the case,” he says. “[We need to] encourage people to text their buddies and ask how they are. You never know what someone is going through and it might just be a single text that helps someone
What started as a personal challenge to raise awareness of men’s mental health for the Mike King-founded I Am Hope charity quickly grew into a community fundraising effort, with others joining Smith at Pukekohe Park. “Even people from my social media who I’d never met before came and ran laps with me,” he says. “Some people had family members who had committed suicide – they were especially supportive.” Smith’s Givealittle fundraising page secured less than $300 before the run, but by the time he crossed the finish line, the funds skyrocketed to over $3500.
Cooper Smith. Photo Isabella Root
Ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week (October 12–18), Smith has another big challenge in mind. He is even considering running from Cape Reinga to Wellington or trekking coast to coast. “I don’t think the rewarding feeling you get
from doing things like this compares to anything else. It’s definitely given me the itch to do more,” he adds. “Running 250km felt like hell, but I actually really enjoyed it in a way, so why not?”
HEALTH & WELLBEING
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 41
FRANKLIN WALKS: WAHARAU BUSH TRACK This gentle, short walk through regenerating forest in Waharau Regional Park is ideal for inexperienced bushwalkers. Located on the eastern side of the rugged Hunua Ranges, Waharau Regional Park extends from the range to the coast. The Maori name Waharau means ‘the ever-changing stream mouth’ and refers to the stream that winds its way down from the eastern Hunua Ranges and flows out into the Firth of Thames. Start at the information building. Follow the green markers through the kanukadominated forest and tree ferns. After your bush walk, there is plenty to see and do. Visit the small beach and enjoy views over the Firth of Thames/Tīkapa Moana towards the Coromandel Peninsula. Look out for sea and shore birds, including spotted shags (pārekareka), New Zealand dotterels (tūturiwhatu) and oystercatchers (tōrea). Bring a picnic or use the wood and gas barbecues provided (bring your own wood). If you want to keep exploring, join up with one of the rugged tramping tracks towards the Hunua Ranges.
Waharau Regional Park forms the eastern gateway to the Hunua Ranges, and a series of loop tracks traverse the foothills and link with some of the more rugged tramping tracks that cross the ranges. The park extends from the gravelly shore of the Firth of Thames (Tīkapa Moana) into the eastern foothills of the Hunua Ranges. The coastal part of the park lies between the Waharau Stream in the north and sandy Waihīhī Bay in the south. Inland there are campsites, barbecues, and walking tracks. The nearby Whakatiwai Regional Park is characterised by a series of gravel ridges that
are unique in the Auckland region and also internationally significant. The park includes a shelly sand foreshore and is a haven for migratory birds such as godwits (kuaka) and knots. Many of the tracks, backcountry campgrounds, and connections to the Hunua Ranges Regional Park have been closed to protect the extensive kauri forest. Keep an eye on the Auckland Council website for updates. How to get there: Drive south on State Highway 1 and onto State Highway 2 before turning off onto Mangatangi Road. From there, take Kaiaua Road to Kaiaua on the coast. Turn left onto East Coast Road. Whakatīwai is 4.5km from Kaiaua on the left and Waharau is 4km further along East Coast Road.
Registered Clinical Dental Technician Roger Oliver (38 Years Experience)
BEFORE
TRADITIONAL DENTURES
AFTER
BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION
GOT A DAY? GET A SMILE
Same-day, in-house denture options
GET A FESTIVE SMILE WITH THE DENTURE MAN THIS CHRISTMAS Call or Text Mobile: 027 347 3246 Auckland Office: 09 972 2545 Hamilton Office: 07 595 0251 Visit the Website: thedentureman.nz
PAPAKURA
PUKEKOHE HAMILTON
257C Great South Rd, 234 King St, Papakura Pukekohe
43 Pembroke St Hamilton Lake
HEALTH & WELLBEING
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 43
GALA OF BEAUTIFUL CHAOS
Kerry Manders. Photo Isabella Root
By ISABELLA ROOT
so imagine if we had known more sooner,” she says. “We also didn’t know about perimenopause until about 10 years ago either, but that doesn’t mean it’s new.”
The Runway Foundation is hoping to lay some myths to rest about neurodivergent people during its inaugural gala at Pukekohe Netball Centre on October 10. The Pukekohe-based organisation, which supports young people with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), has been a safe space for people diagnosed with the condition during the last 11 years. As demand for specialised services increases, Runway’s Kerry Manders says the not-for-profit is looking to expand its capacity, beginning with the gala, fittingly held on World Mental Health Day. “We are a small community, but we have massive needs,” she says. “Runway has a waiting list, so we’re hoping the gala will help us raise funds so we can cater to more people with ADHD and their families.
Guitar signed by The King.
Photo supplied
“It is really important that we have more conversations about ADHD to help people understand because, ultimately, we want our kids to succeed and they totally can.” There are many misconceptions about ADHD because identification of the condition began relatively recently, Manders explains. “Some people still think you should just be able to get on with life and sort yourself out,
With media personality Petra Bagust as MC, the gala will shine a positive light on the “beautiful chaos” of neurodiversity. It features a runway fashion show and live music from songstress Nikau Grace. It also includes an auction with a guitar signed by Elvis Presley, a recording session with 2025 NZ Music Producer of the Year Nic Manders, holiday escapes and more on offer. Most importantly, it provides an opportunity to learn more about ADHD and how we can support those living with it, Manders adds. “If people can leave the night feeling encouraged, with a little bit more understanding about ADHD and what success can look like with the right support, then that’s a big win for me.”
New home for Franklin Hospice takes shape
Franklin Hospice’s first purpose-built home is taking shape on Foy Road in Pukekohe. The new facility will help bring more specialist palliative care and support closer to home for patients and whānau across Franklin. Franklin Hospice provides care 365 days a year to people living with life-limiting illness. Its nurses travel throughout a region spanning more than 2,500 square kilometres, from Drury to Port Waikato and across to Kaiaua and Miranda. Last year, the team supported 338 patients and made 1,563 visits to patients in their homes.
Why is a new hospice needed?
Care in patients’ homes will remain at the heart of Franklin Hospice’s work. The new building will add three purpose-
built day rooms where patients can receive short periods of care and support without being admitted to hospital or an inpatient hospice. It will also provide space for therapy, family support, and the assessment and management of complex pain and symptoms. For someone who is seriously unwell, travelling into Auckland can be exhausting. Having these services in Franklin will ease that burden for patients and families, while helping people remain at home for as long as possible.
have helped bring the project this far. Approximately $2.6 million is still needed to complete the new hospice. Local individuals, families, businesses, trusts and organisations can help by making a donation, partnering with Franklin Hospice or spreading the word. Recognition opportunities are also available for those considering a significant contribution. To donate, follow the build or learn more about supporting the project, visit the Franklin Hospice website.
Progress and how you can help
Construction is underway, with completion currently targeted for mid2027. Community generosity, grants and Franklin Hospice’s own resources
www.franklinhospice.org.nz
HEALTH & WELLBEING
44 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
THE BEST YEARS OF THEIR LIVES By MIKE KING, founding
ambassador, I Am Hope Foundation
Adults are always telling kids these are the best years of their lives. Enjoy being young. Stop worrying. Wait until you’ve got a mortgage and real problems. Then we scratch our heads wondering why they don’t talk to us when something is wrong. I’ve been looking through some of our Gumboot Friday reporting recently, and what struck me was how young some of these kids are when certain problems start showing up. Anxiety is right through the age groups we support, including primary school kids. With the younger ones, we’re also seeing anger, family conflict, struggling with change and trauma. Obviously, this is Gumboot Friday data, so it’s not representative of every kid in New Zealand. It simply gives us a snapshot of what the young people coming to us for counselling are struggling with. Anger in younger kids really interests me. I’ve spent enough time in schools to see how
quickly adults can decide a kid is naughty, disruptive or just a pain in the a**. Sometimes they are. But sometimes there’s a whole lot of stuff going on in that kid’s life and their behaviour is the only way they know how to tell us. As they get older, depression starts showing up more in our reporting, along with bullying, body image, social anxiety and eating difficulties. I can relate to some of that. I spent half my younger life worrying about what other people thought of me. You could have put me in a room with 99 people who liked me and one who didn’t, and I would have spent the whole night wondering what was wrong with the miserable bastard in the corner. Then school finishes and suddenly we expect them to be adults. Get a job. Pick a career. Pay your bills. Find a partner. Work out who you are and what you’re going to do with the rest of your life. I’m 60 and I’m still working some of that stuff out.
the data tells us something it doesn’t. We’ve still got work to do there. What I do know after all these years talking to kids is that they don’t need us to have all the answers. Most of the time, they just need to know they can tell us what’s going on without being judged, lectured or told how lucky they are. So next time a young person starts talking to you, shut up and listen. You might be surprised by what they tell you. Under 25 and need someone to talk to? Book a free counsellor at gumbootfriday.com – no GP referral needed.
There are differences in what different groups are coming to us with too, and I want to understand those properly before pretending
Matthew Paul
Mike King
d e n t u ro l o g y d r u ry denture clinic christmas smile special - holiday denture deal !!!
10% oFF on neW dentures
O ffer V alid U ntil 30 th n OVember 2026
National Party Candidate
SAME DAY DENTURE RELINE/ REPAIR/ TOOTH ADDITION
for Port Waikato
FREE CONSULTATION ANF FREE AFTERCARE OPEN ON SATURDAYS
PATIENT’S SATISFACTION IS GUARANDTEED DENTUROLOGY SERVICES Full & Partial Dentures (Acrylic/Flexible/ Metal) Implant-Overdentures Denture Relines/ Repairs/Tooth additions Free WINZ or Insurance quotes Bite splints and Night guards Teeth-Whitening trays and Sports Mouth guards Flexible payment options - Credit card / Q Card / Instalment payment 5% discount for Gold Card holders Mobile services (Home visits/ Residential care visits) E WE
matthew.paul@national.org.nz
@@ MatthewPaulForPortWaikato
Authorised by M Paul, matthew.paul@national.org.nz
Open Tuesdays and Fridays 10am-5pm / Saturdays 9am-1pm 213 Great South Rd, Drury 09 294 7998
drurydenture@gmail.com www.denturology.co.nz
HEALTH & WELLBEING
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 45
FINDING YOUR BALANCE: GO BACK TO B.A.S.I.C.
Men and bone density: What you need to know Lauren Ferris, owner of The F.I.T Method and The Vitality Club Events Company, with 28 years of experience in the health and wellness industry shares her expertise. As a continuation of my previous wellness article, I am taking you on a deep dive into practical steps to boost your vitality and prevent burnout as the silly season approaches. My first step toward a more stable and efficient energy supply is creating intentional space in your days. Stress and anxiety very often derive from feeling the pressure to perform in a certain way, within a certain time frame, and to obtain a certain result. When you block out space and time in your days to pause, it really helps to zoom out and see things from a new perspective. Going back to B.A.S.I.C. is a very effective way to rebalance and shift your focus to help you feel much less stressed and anxious:
Breathe: Slow your breath all the way down. A simple, slow box-
breathing technique can help regulate your nervous system and bring you out of survival mode.
Assess: Zoom out in your mind to see the big picture. This helps to put things into better perspective and recognise where you are already winning. Somatic movement: Move with the intention to release tension and unhelpful thoughts. Something as simple as going for a 10-minute walk with the intention to "walk it off" can really help shift your emotional state and bring far more mental clarity. Intentions: Setting your intention before taking action can really help set the value of the task ahead, aiding focus and motivation. This provides a positive dopamine hit for your brain, which keeps you feeling satisfied about why you do what you do. Connection (to self and nature): Creating space to come back to yourself and listen to your inner voice makes a big difference when life gets full and heavy. Remembering your "why" will help you stay focused. Connecting with nature is also hugely beneficial for grounding your nervous system and energy, bringing you back to neutral. Being in a state of neutral means you are no longer in survival mode, giving you full access to critical thinking and creativity. Connect with Lauren: Instagram @lauren_ferris_coach, Facebook @laurenferris, email jointhemethod@gmail.com
Low bone density and osteoporosis are often labelled as a women’s disorder, but that is simply not the case! Age-related bone loss, medications, hormonal shifts and lifestyle factors all play a part. Men generally start with larger, thicker skeletons, and testosterone levels decrease more slowly compared to the sharp decline of oestrogen at menopause. However, by the age of 65 to 70, men and women lose bone mass at the same rate. One in five men over the age of 50 will experience a fracture due to thinned bones, and fractures in men often carry a much higher risk of severe, long-term complications. Sadly, one in three men with a hip fracture will die within the first 12 months of the injury. While men and women share general lifestyle risk factors for bone loss, there are medical treatments and physiological conditions that uniquely threaten men’s bone health. Up to 60 per cent of male osteoporosis cases can be classed as “secondary”, meaning the bone loss is caused by medications or other medical conditions. In contrast, women’s bone loss is more commonly “primary”, meaning driven by post-menopausal changes. Male hypogonadism (low testosterone) is the single most common non-lifestyle cause of osteoporosis in men, and this is more common than you’d think. High visceral fat, genetic disorders, physical injury, undescended testes, infections and cancer treatments can all result in hypogonadism. Prostate cancer androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) intentionally shuts down testosterone production, with rapid bone loss occurring during the first 12 months of starting treatment. Men on ADT will typically lose around 10 times more bone mass annually than a healthy aging male, increasing their risk of fracture while undergoing this therapy. For those starting ADT for prostate cancer, a DXA Bone Density scan should be performed before or right at the start of treatment to establish a baseline, with follow-up scans regularly to monitor the rate of bone loss. For healthy men with no risk factors, proactive screening is recommended at around 65 years of age. This will provide valuable information regarding skeletal health before damage occurs. Finally, optimise your bone health by combining regular resistance and weight-bearing exercise, good nutrition (especially adequate calcium and Vitamin D intake) and limit alcohol and tobacco.
For more information visit: www.boneandbodyblueprint.co.nz
46 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
HEALTH & WELLBEING
LET’S TALK HEARING:
Should I be worried about my tinnitus? By KATHRIN BAER,
Audiologist, Wolfe Hearing
A ringing in a quiet room, a high-pitched whistle, a buzz, a hum, the sound of cicadas, static or a whooshing noise – tinnitus sounds different for everyone, but it always has one thing in common: the sound isn’t coming from the world around you. When tinnitus first appears, it’s natural to wonder whether you should be worried. For most people, the reassuring answer is no. Tinnitus is common and is rarely a sign of a serious medical problem, but there are a few exceptions worth knowing. A symptom, not a disease Tinnitus is best thought of as a symptom rather than a condition in itself. It can come with hearing loss, exposure to loud noise, a build-up of earwax, ear infections, certain medications, jaw problems and other ear conditions. Sometimes no clear cause is found. The strongest link is with hearing loss. The American Tinnitus Association reports that 90 per cent of people with tinnitus have some degree of hearing loss, which is why a hearing assessment is usually a sensible place to start. Does tinnitus mean I’m going deaf? No. The two often go hand in hand, but tinnitus doesn’t mean your hearing will steadily fade away. It is, however, a good reason to check your hearing, especially if the tinnitus is new or changing, or conversations are becoming harder to follow. When to get it checked? Most tinnitus isn’t urgent, but some patterns deserve a closer look. Make an appointment with a healthcare professional if your tinnitus: • is new or getting worse • is only in one ear • is affecting your sleep, concentration or everyday life
• pulses or beats in time with your heartbeat Seek urgent medical attention if tinnitus comes with sudden hearing loss, significant dizziness (vertigo) or muscle weakness, or if it starts after a head injury. Sudden hearing loss in the inner ear is treated as an ear emergency and early treatment matters. Please don’t assume a suddenly blocked or ringing ear is just wax or a cold. When nothing serious is wrong, but it still bothers you? Even after being told everything is fine, our brains can treat tinnitus as a threat, so we focus on it even more. For some people, it becomes very intrusive, affecting sleep, mood and concentration. The good news is there are practical ways to make it far less troublesome. If a cause such as earwax is found, treating it may help. Where there is hearing loss, hearing aids restore everyday sounds, making tinnitus less noticeable. Most of our clients with tinnitus find some relief from hearing aids. Sound therapy and
cognitive behavioural approaches can also help change how you respond to tinnitus, easing the distress it causes. It may also help to avoid complete silence, which tends to make tinnitus stand out. Gentle background sound, such as a fan, soft music or nature sounds can make it less prominent, particularly at bedtime. So, should you worry? Usually not. But tinnitus shouldn’t be ignored just because someone has told you, “You’ll just have to live with it.” Checking your hearing, looking for any underlying cause and learning how to manage it can make an enormous difference. At Wolfe Hearing, we can examine your ears, test your hearing and help you understand what may be behind your tinnitus. If anything needs medical investigation, we’ll point you to the right next step and we can help you evaluate whether hearing aids or other options could work for you. Wolfe Hearing – local, independent hearing care in Pukekohe and Drury.
Free Consultation Experiencing tinnitus or a change in hearing?
We’re celebrating 20 years in business and would love to welcome new clients. Come and see us for FREE* and experience Wolfe Hearing’s friendly service, professional expertise and independent advice. *Offer available to new customers October only -Free hearing Assessment, Tinnitus Assessment or Hearing aid review.please mention Franklin times when booking
0800 300 303 wolfehearing.co.nz w
BEAUTY
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 47
POLISHED IN A HURRY: MAKEUP SKILLS FOR BUSY MORNINGS
By SARAI ELORA of Bonita Artistry Early starts, full calendars, and long days call for a makeup routine that works with you. Looking polished doesn’t have to mean adding more steps. A few professional techniques can make your routine quicker, more wearable and easier to repeat.
Start with skin prep
Long-wearing makeup begins before complexion products go on. Apply your skincare, then give it a moment to settle. If the skin feels slick, gently press away any excess before applying makeup. This helps your base blend smoothly and reduces the urge to add more product to fix slipping or patchiness.
Use coverage where it counts
Rather than applying an even layer everywhere, begin where you want the most coverage and blend outward. Use a small amount at a time, building only where needed. For darkness or redness, a tiny touch of colour correction can help neutralise the area before concealer, so you don’t need to rely on heavier coverage across the whole face.
Check your finish
Check your base in natural light and blend along the jaw and neck for a seamless finish. Indoor lighting can make a shade look different from how it appears in daylight.
Create definition in less time
For soft eye definition, press colour close to the upper lash line and gently diffuse it. This gives the impression of fuller lashes without needing a precise line. To open up the eyes, curl the lashes and keep the rest of the eye makeup simple.
Perfect brows
For brows, brush hairs into place and use short, light strokes only where extra definition is wanted. Following the natural direction of the hairs helps the result look polished rather than drawn on.
Set with intention
Powder tends to be most useful where makeup moves or shines, such as the sides of the nose and centre of the forehead. Press it in lightly rather than sweeping it over the entire face. If makeup needs refreshing later, blot first; layering more over shine can leave the finish looking heavier. The best busy day
routine is one you can repeat with confidence. Small, thoughtful adjustments can help you feel ready for the day while still looking like yourself. Explore more expert beauty advice on the Bonita Artistry website: www.bonitartistry. co.nz/blog.
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, September 18, 2026 | 1 COMMUNITY
48 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
THIS WEEK’S COMMUNITY HERO IS
Julia Thompson 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. 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 Julia Thompson, nominated by Denise Strong, who writes: “Ms Thompson helps the kids out so much with their lambs. The kids are able to take their lambs to school each day to feed etc. She needs to be recognised for the hard work throughout school life with the kids too, as she’s always there for them! You’re a true hero at Harrisville School.”
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. We run a Community Hero in each edition of the newspaper.
Tell us about your Community Hero online at franklintimes.co.nz/nominate
MORE SPACE, MORE POSSIBILITIES STAGE 1
REMAINING
SOLD
LOTS
75%
16
FROM
850m2
PREMIUM SECTIONS
Enquire now at conmara.co.nz
COMMUNITY
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 49
MY LOCAL: WAIPIPI HALL By HELENA O’NEILL Just off the main road up the Awhitu Peninsula, Waipipi Hall is surrounded by bush and farmland. The hall is a picturesque, traditional country hall with beautiful heritage features and is home to the roll of honour for the First and Second World Wars. The hall has a small stage, a supper room, and a kitchenette. Waipipi resident Lyndsay Shuker says that in 1922, the community held meetings to discuss building a hall, bowling green, and croquet green. “They had a meeting in November 1922, and they moved to build the hall. And some of the locals put money up; the bigger farmers put more up than the little farmers. They all put in, and by May the next year, they opened it. They had a grand opening ball in May 1923, which is unbelievable, as they wouldn’t even have had the paperwork done these days.” Shuker says the hall was revamped in 1964, paid for by an additional targeted rate via
the Franklin County Council. While now owned by the Auckland Council, the hall is cared for by a community-led committee of volunteers. Committee chairperson Anne Walters says recent infrastructure improvements include an upgraded water system funded by Auckland Council, exterior repainting, and improved water standards compliance. Future maintenance goals involve upgrading the kitchen and men’s toilets. “We, as a committee, are trying to run three organised events through the committee each year. At the beginning of the year, we had a jumble sale. Then we had a sell-out quiz night, and we hope to have a quiz night again next year. Our last event is a Christmas craft market on Saturday, November 7.”
The Waipipi Hall is available for hire to host weddings, parties and events. The hall has a dining capacity of 100 people and is a popular location for children’s parties, with a fenced section. Pilates and bowls are regular events held there, with karate classes due to start next year. For any booking enquiries, please phone or text Esther Thompson on 021 375 602 or email info@waipipihall.com.
ALL DENTURES
Professional Denture Clinic
The Denture and Denture Implant Clinics BOOK NOW FOR 2026!
Are Here! PLAY ONLINE NOW
franklintimes.co.nz/puzzles
• Full Dentures • Acrylic Dentures • Metal Dentures • Flexible Dentures • Denture Relines • Denture Repairs • Mouth Guards
We make it... we fit it... we fix it... Full dental laboratory services with no dentist appointments or referrals required! CROSSWORD
SUDOKU
SLIDE
WORDROW
Challenge your mind Every Day!
11 West St, Pukekohe – 09 238 0095 3/208 Gt Sth Rd, Papatoetoe – 09 277 2233 22 Jellicoe Rd, Panmure – 09 527 7555 289 Gt Sth Rd, Otahuhu – 09 259 4411
Email: alldentures@yahoo.co.nz www.alldentures.co.nz
Want more out of your fixed term investments? Short term secured investments, backed by property. For more information and latest rates visit: southerncrosspartners.co.nz *Southern Cross Partners Ltd is licensed to provided peer-to-peer lending services under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013.
ARTS & CULTURE
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 51
WOW EARNS EARNA A ‘BOW’ By ISABELLA ROOT Some things you can experience vicariously, whether it’s a sports match, a music festival or even a trip to the Chatham Islands, but the World of Wearable Arts (WOW) doesn’t really fall into the same category. It wasn’t so much the extraordinary garments that took me by surprise at this year’s competition in the capital – they were phenomenal and their creators were bursting with talent, but I had expected that – it was the sheer intricacy of the production that had me on the edge of my seat. What I didn’t anticipate seeing was the combination of so many expert minds at work, from the designs themselves to the effortless acrobatic stunts, nail-biting fire performances and lighting that pulsed in time with a carefully curated soundtrack. Themes ebbed and flowed throughout the show, with the occasional ‘Easter egg’ tucked away, resurfacing later as though to wink at the audience.
Armour of Pain, Erna and Karl Van Der Wat. Photo supplied
We, the crowd, were elated, whisked away by the magic of WOW.
WOW finals once again.
When I stepped out of the theatre, into the miserable, wet Wellington weather, I felt a winding sense of astonishment. It was as though no words could describe what I thought of the show, well, maybe one… wow!
Shortly after my last article went to print, we heard the good news that the couple had been named winners of the Metallic category for their entry titled Armour of Pain (pictured). In addition, the couple finished as runners-up for the overall Supreme Award.
Ahead of the release of our last paper, I spoke with regular WOW competitor Erna Van Der Wat from Karaka. She was pleased to share that she and her husband had reached the
Well done to the Van Der Wats. Having now had the chance to see the show, I have a better idea of how tough it must be to win accolades in this amazing competition.
We’re here
When it matters most
Local, experienced, and ready to help—whenever you need us
PAPAKURA 09 298 2957 | PUKEKOHE 09 238 2221 fountainsfunerals.co.nz
Visit the Kōwhai Chapel A serene, light‑filled space where families can honour life with dignity. Discover a peaceful setting for remembrance, reflection, and support when it matters most.
ARTS & CULTURE
52 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
THE LOOKERS ARE COOKING! By ISABELLA ROOT Emily and Charles Looker (aka Aro) are taking the ultimate road trip, but being nominated as finalists for the APRA Tohu Maioha Award has added an extra stop on their travels. The Pukekohe husband-and-wife music duo’s music, described as ‘Aotearoa jazz pop’, has won several awards including Best Pop Album at the Waiata Māori Music Awards for He Rākau He Ngārara in 2024.
against the grain and embrace travelling with our kids while they’re still young.” Living on the go has allowed the Lookers to continue performing and connecting with young people through school workshops across the country. Part of their motivation comes from an issue that Looker says is close to home and, fittingly, comes not long after World Suicide Prevention Day.
With studio projects, numerous singles (and three children) to their credit, the pair continue to make collaborative music, however now based in a van they’ve called home for the past 17 months.
“Our biggest hope is to see the suicide rates lower – that is the biggest reason behind why we do what we do,” Looker says. “Wherever you come from, whatever your story is, we’re all human.”
“Being able to do shows in towns across the country and really getting to know the people in the communities is what we’re all about,” Emily Looker says.
Aro’s recent song Puna Ora, which forms part of their latest album, Tāwauwau, determined the pair’s place in the APRA Tohu Maioha Award finals.
“Our daughter was only four when we moved onto the road. We just thought we’d go
“It feels really good to be back and to have some [more] recognition for our writing,” says
Charles and Emily Looker. Photo Mataara Stokes
Looker. “We’re musicians living off our music and it feels amazing that we are able to live this dream.” Aro’s next musical creation is likely to drop in 2028. It is inspired by the environment and natural heritage. “We have heaps in the pipeline for the next big project we’ve started dreaming up,” she adds. “There is always something cooking.”
CHRISTMAS JOIN US FOR
We stock a fantastic range of products to choose from. • Hire of trees and decorations
• We decorate your existing tree
D AY D I N I N G DINING FROM
12 NOON
ADULTS
$175 INCL PROSECCO
CHILDREN 5-12
UNDER 5
$87.50
FREE
• Refresh wreaths and garlands
• Demonstrations (weekdays from 4pm so please book ahead) • We can host fundraising events Store hours: Monday - Friday: 9.00am - 5.00pm Saturday: 10.00am - 2.00pm Contact us:
Becky & Sesi 027 7853 242 102 King Street, Pukekohe
SCAN TO BOOK
BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL. T&C’S APPLY.
DINE@CASTAWAYS.CO.NZ | 09 236 5041 685 KARIOITAHI ROAD, KARIOITAHI BEACH, WAIUKU
ARTS & CULTURE
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 53
ARTIST’S ‘JOLLY’ GOOD SHOW By ISABELLA ROOT Drury’s much-loved Murphy’s Law pub is gone, but thanks to a recently completed painting by Suzy Kirkaldy, it need not be forgotten. Her piece, named ‘The Jolly’ (many locals continued to call the pub by its former name), is an homage to a favourite watering hole. She says reactions to the demolition of the pub last year have been quite emotive. “One person on social media said that they’ve ripped the heart out of Drury village,” she recalls. “There definitely has been a real sense of grief and outrage about the loss of this landmark.” A self-proclaimed pastelist now living in Awhitu, Kirkaldy has been creatively inclined since childhood, particularly when she lived in Kenya illustrating animals for the East African Wildlife Gallery. “When I came to New Zealand, I had to draw other animals because we’re a bit short of
lions and elephants here,” she laughs.
a time when they enjoyed a particular place.”
While she still focuses on animal commissions and tutoring a pastel workshop, her line of work took a new turn when she began depicting local landmarks. In 1992, she completed a piece featuring the old Clevedon Dairy prior to its demolition, which sold more than 250 prints.
With so much change in the region due to a growing population, Kirkaldy is playing her part in documenting local history.
“I’m trying to capture a piece of local, muchloved history, especially places that were important to locals but have since been demolished. This way, they don’t just see a piece of architecture, instead they capture a memory,” she says. “It brings people back to
“The whole village of Clevedon is changing,” she adds. “With the huge increase in housing, people are going to want to have a reminder of the old Clevedon on their walls.” Kirkaldy is already seeking other local buildings threatened by the bulldozer to inspire her next piece. For details, visit suzykirkaldyportraits.com.
ARTS & CULTURE
54 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
GROOVIT
Kurfew in action
Photo supplied
By ISABELLA ROOT Three talented hip hop crews from Pukekohe’s Groovit Dance Studio are taking their local ‘flavour’ to the Gold Coast, where they’re competing at the Upgrade Championships hip hop competition. Studio owner Rochelle Browne says that these local dancers have benefited from having a professional dance studio so close to home. Their inclusion at the competition is a testament to Groovit’s growth. “One of our goals for our studio, our dancers, was to give them the opportunities to do more without having to leave Franklin in order to do it,” she says. “On the world stage, there are global superstars who have back-up dancers who come from little old New Zealand and there could be more soon enough if some of our kids keep doing what they’re doing.”
Lucy Elliot (third from right) with her team, Kurfew.
Featuring dancers ranging in age from 12 to 17, Groovit’s qualifying teams are performing as Kodak, Kurfew and 21Twenty. They are led by instructors who hail from all over Franklin, including Waiuku, Pukekohe and Tuakau.
to represent our local studio on a bigger stage that’s outside of New Zealand.” While the fun is mostly in the fellowship, Browne says, hard work has paid off for the teams. However, the Upgrade competition is still a very big step up.
Kurfew dancer Lucy Elliott is just 13, but the ACG Strathallan student has already become a veteran, having danced since she was just three years old.
“Upgrade has been going for a wee while [since 2019], and the calibre of dancers that it attracts is always amazing, so it will be tough for them.”
“It really is a lot of fun to go out and see your friends after school and dance together,” she says. “What I’m most excited about [regarding the competition] is just being able
Regardless of how well the troupes perform in Australia, there won’t be much time at all for one of them to relax – Kodak will jump straight back on the tools (so to speak), preparing
for another big international event, the Hip Hop Unite World Championships in Tauranga, October 29–31. ‘Repping’ their studio on foreign turf, or when up against overseas teams in New Zealand, is a proud achievement for Groovit’s performers, but wherever they go, they will ‘bring it,’ Browne expects. “For some of these children, it’s a dream come true and for others it’s just that they want to enjoy dancing for its own sake,” she adds. “But [in either case] whenever we go to competitions, Groovit is a little bit different than others – we definitely do bring our own unique flavour.”
PRINTING THAT LEAVES A LASTING IMPRESSION SERVICES Business Cards Stationery Brochures Flyers & Posters Magazines & Catalogues jason.white@pukesprint.co.nz m: 027 785 3777
p: 09 238 3899
Label Printing Packaging
2/24 Alpito Place, Pukekohe
NCR Docket Books
pukekoheserviceprint.co.nz
In-House Designer
Photo supplied
ARTS & CULTURE
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 55
D’ARTAGNAN TAKES AIM… Tui in flight in my backyard. D’Artagnan Sprengel.
By ISABELLA ROOT Bombay’s D’Artagnan Sprengel was just 11 years old when his parents gifted him his first DSLR camera; now, the 19-year-old is already an internationally recognised wildlife photographer. However, his interest in photography began with a less sophisticated camera. “I started by taking photos of various fungi around our rural property with a little pointand-shoot camera,” he recalls. “I was also a big birder when I was younger, ticking off the different new species I saw [and photographed].” As he was homeschooled, Sprengel had more freedom than most to explore his interests and refine his creative instincts. Taking pictures provides a level of attention to detail that we may otherwise blink and miss, he explains. “Over time, I shifted from birds, photographing as many species as I could, to prioritising the image over the subject,” he says. “Photography allowed me to capture the hidden moments, ones that are too quick for our eyes to capture.”
Reef starfish, Port Waikato. What began as a hobby while snapping around his garden led to Sprengel being framed as a finalist for the prestigious New Zealand Geographic Photographer of the Year in 2020. Since then, he has developed quite a collection of accolades. These include winning the NZ Geo Young Photographer of the Year 2025 and Nature Photographer of the Year’s youth category in 2024, while also claiming four youth category titles and the overall Young WildArt Photographer of the Year in 2021. Staying close to the craft, Sprengel now spends his nine-to-five at Papakura Picture Framers where his lens is often turned towards school and sports photography.
Don’t miss BREAKING NEWS, LOCAL STORIES AND EVENTS www.franklintimes.co.nz/subscribe
“I would prefer taking photos of wildlife rather than school kids,” he laughs. “It does limit my creativity in some ways, but it’s good to have a stable job. “On some weekends, I also teach photography workshops to kids through a charitable trust called Imagen8, which is very rewarding.” Sprengel is now loading up his camera to take a shot at more competitions, including the upcoming Wildlife Photographer of the Year later this month. “It’s one that I have complete and utter faith in,” he adds. “I would like to think my positivity and self-belief could make winning it become a reality.”
ARTS & CULTURE
56 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
WANT MATES RATES? THE BEST RATES ARE RESERVED FOR
JOIN THE CLUB
SIGN UP IN-STORE OR ONLINE!
Mates
WWW.BIGBARREL.CO.NZ
5
HEROES OF THE WEEK
CLYNELISH 14YO OR TOMATIN 14YO PORT CASK PREMIUM SM WHISKY 700ML
DICTADOR 20YO PREMIUM RUM 700ML
GENTLEMAN JACK GLEN MORAY 12YO JAMESON ORIGINAL WOODFORD RESERVE APPLETON ESTATE TENNESSE WHISKEY PREMIUM SINGLE MALT 1 LITRE OR JAMESON BOURBON 700ML OR SIGNATURE BLEND WHISKY 700ML RUM 1 LITRE OR BLACK BARREL 700ML JACK DANIELS TENNESSEE 700ML OR MOUNT GAY WHISKEY 1 LITRE ECLIPSE GOLD RUM 1 LITRE 8YO RUM 700ML IRISH WHISKEY
$124.99 $109.99 $69.99
$64.99
$64.99 ANY
$54.99 $119.99 FOR MATES!
FOR MATES!
$99.99
$109.99 FOR MATES!
FOR MATES!
FOR MATES!
$59.99
JOHNNIE WALKER BLACK LABEL 12YO WHISKY 700ML OR EVAN WILLIAMS BLACK LABEL BOURBON 1 LITRE
$59.99
GLENMORANGIE GLENMORANGIE GLENMORANGIE GLENMORANGIE GLENMORANGIE 18YO PREMIUM NECTAR D’OR QUINTA RUBAN LASANTA 12YO ORIGINAL 12YO SCOTCH WHISKY SCOTCH WHISKY 14YO SCOTCH SCOTCH WHISKY SCOTCH WHISKY WHISKY 700ML 700ML 700ML 700ML 700ML
ANY
JIM BEAM BLACK LABEL BOURBON 1 LITRE
$59.99
JIM BEAM WHITE LABEL BOURBON 1.125 LTR OR MAKERS MARK BOURBON WHISKY 700ML
CANADIAN CLUB WHISKY, EARLY TIMES BOURBON OR SOUTHERN COMFORT WHISKEY LIQUEUR 1 LITRE
2 FOR
$49.99
FOR MATES!
BLACK HEART DARK RUM 1 LITRE
$52.99
GREENALLS LONDON DRY GIN OR GRANTS SCOTCH WHISKY 1 LITRE
JOSE CUERVO ESPECIAL GOLD OR SILVER TEQUILA 700ML
$51.99
$49.99
$44.99
FOR MATES!
$50!
ABSOLUT PLAIN VODKA (INC HARING EDITION) OR BEEFEATER LONDON DRY GIN 1 LITRE
$54.99
$47.99
$199.99 $124.99 $114.99 $104.99 $74.99
$39.99
2 FOR
$69.99 BROKERS LONDON DRY GIN 1 LITRE
NEW!
$64.99
$100!
FOR MATES!
$194.99
$64.99
FOR MATES!
LE CUVIER NAPOLEON VSOP BRANDY 1 LITRE
LARIOS ORIGINAL MEDITERRANEAN GIN 1 LITRE
RUSKOV FRENCH VODKA 1 LITRE
TRES SOMBRERO GOLD OR SILVER TEQUILA 700ML
$49.99 $47.99 $46.99 $41.99 $41.99
MR STUBBS MARGARITA OR ESPRESSO COFFEE LIQUEUR + SHAKER COMBO 750ML
$17.99
MALONEY’S IRISH CREAM LIQUEUR 750ML
$17.99
$27.99 FOR MATES!
NEW BACARDI & COKE 4.8% 6PK CANS OR JACK DANIEL’S DOUBLE JACK & COKE 7% 6PK CANS 330ML
ROULETTE BY PAUL JOHN OR MONT CASTLE INDIAN WHISKY 750ML
$41.99
$19.99
PERONI NASTRO AZZURRO 12PK BOTTLES OR ASAHI SUPER DRY 12PK CANS 330ML
$26.99
$34.99
$36.99
$18.99
WOODSTOCK 7% BOURBON & COLA 6PK CANS RANGE 330ML
$19.99
TUI 7% VODKA PREMIX 12PK CANS RANGE 330ML
$24.99
-196 VODKA PREMIX 10PK CANS RANGE 330ML
$44.99
HAWKE’S BAY TUATARA CRAFT BREWING CO CRAFT BEER 6PK CANS BEER 6PK CANS RANGE 330ML RANGE 330ML
$19.99 $21.99
$26.99
$27.99
FOR MATES!
WOODSTOCK 7% BOURBON & COLA 18PK CANS 250ML
JIM BEAM OR CANADIAN CLUB 4.8% 10PK CANS RANGE 330ML
$24.99
$19.99
FOR MATES!
JACK DANIELS DOUBLE JACK 7% 10PK CANS RANGE 330ML
HAWKE’S BAY BREWING CO PEACH BOMB OR BERRY BOMB 4PK CANS 330ML
FOR MATES!
STOKE CRAFT BEER 12PK CANS RANGE 330ML
$23.99
HEINEKEN ORIG/ZERO, TIGER ORIG/ULTRA 12PK BOTTLES OR FLAME 12PK CANS 330ML
$24.99
CORONA CERO 0% BEER 12PK BOTTLES 330ML
$27.99
DOUBLE BROWN 18PK CANS OR EXPORT 33 LOW CARB 15PK BOTTLES 330ML
$29.99
ANY
CRUISER VODKA PREMIX 12PK BOTTLES RANGE 275ML
$29.99
KIRIN HOYOKETSU VODKA PREMIX 10PK CANS RANGE 330ML
$29.99
2 FOR
$80!
EXPORT ULTRA, EXPORT GOLD, DB DRAUGHT OR TUI 24PK BOTTLES OR EXPORT ULTRA 24PK CANS 330ML
$41.99
HEINEKEN SILVER OR SPEIGHT’S SUMMIT ULTRA 24PK BOTTLES 330ML
STEINLAGER CLASSIC 24PK BOTTLES 330ML
$44.99 $47.99 $39.99 FOR MATES!
SELAKS ORIGINS SHIRAZ OR CABSAV OR SQUAWKING MAGPIE FIRST FLIGHT ROSÉ 750ML
$9.99
LINDAUER SPAKRLING WINE RANGE 750ML
$13.99
MISSION ESTATE WINE RANGE (EXCL PINOT NOIR) 750ML
$14.99
LAKE CHALICE FALCON WINE RANGE 750ML
$15.99
BRUT DARGET SPRITZ OR LONGCHAMPS FRENCH ROSÉ NV 750ML
$19.99
CHÅTEAU MOULIN DE PRAYÈRE OR CHÅTEAU HAUT FLORIN BORDEAUX RED 2021 WINES 750ML
$19.99
WE SHIP NATIONWIDE!
WWW.BIGBARREL.CO.NZ Want Mates Rates?
Join the club. It’s free to sign up!
Earn Points Receive Rewards & Get Exclusive Deals
Sign up in-store or online. www.bigbarrel.co.nz
0800 (BARREL) 227 735 Pricing on products marked as ‘Mates Club Reserved’ is only available to Mates Club Members. Limit of 6 per customer. Trade not supplied.
Please visit our website for a list of full terms and conditions.
DANIEL LE BRUN BRUT NV OR BRUT ROSÉ NV 750ML
$24.99
WOLF BLASS GREY LABEL WINE RANGE 750ML
$29.99
OSBORNE CREAM, MEDIUM OR FINO SHERRY RANGE 750ML
$24.99
55 STORES NATIONWIDE
Visit our website to see a full list of store locations and opening hours. SPECIALS VALID FROM 7TH - 12TH OCT 2026 OR WHILE STOCKS LAST
*Some items may not be available in all stores
PENFOLDS FATHER 10YO PREMIUM PORT 750ML
TAITTINGER CHAMPAGNE BRUT NV 750ML
$41.99 $84.99
FEAST IN FRANKLIN
DON’T SPARE THE SPEARS Asparagus is one of spring’s most distinctive vegetables, and for Franklin’s growers and home cooks its arrival is a sure sign the seasons are changing. The tender green spears are harvested while they are young, before the shoots are allowed to develop into the tall, fern-like plants asparagus produces when left to grow. Unlike many vegetables planted afresh each year, asparagus is a herbaceous perennial flowering plant. Once established, a productive asparagus bed can continue producing spears for many years. Freshness matters. Look for firm, brightly coloured spears with tightly closed tips. Asparagus can lose quality after harvesting, so it is best eaten fresh or kept in the fridge. Preparation is simple. Trim or snap off the tougher base of each spear before cooking.
Asparagus can be steamed, boiled, roasted, grilled or quickly sauteed. Keeping a little bite in the spears helps preserve texture and fresh flavour, so be careful not to overcook as it can quickly become mushy and unpleasant to eat.
from a local grower, asparagus is at its best when treated simply. With its relatively short season, there is good reason to enjoy it while it is fresh from local growers and readily available.
Asparagus also works well with uncomplicated accompaniments. Butter, lemon, olive oil, parmesan and eggs are all natural partners, while asparagus can be added to salads, pastas, risottos, quiches and other seasonal spring dishes. For gardeners, growing asparagus requires patience. Newly established plants need time to develop strong crowns and root systems before they can sustain regular harvesting. That initial wait can pay off with crops returning in subsequent seasons. Whether picked from the garden or bought
NOMINATE A
FRANKLINTIMES.CO.NZ/NOMINATE Proudly sponsored by
Dine at Franklin Club Great food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere right here at Franklin Club Incorporated. Enjoy delicious meals, generous portions, and excellent value in a relaxed club setting. Perfect for catching up with friends and family. • Open Wednesday to Saturday • Buffet on the last Sunday of each month.
Everyone welcome!
To book or enquire call 09 238 9465 YOUR COMMUNITY, YOUR CLUB NEW MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME
DINING
58 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
SuMei summer rolls.
Connie Clarkson’s saucy dumplings.
Photos Times Media
A MOVING EXPERIENCE By JON RAWLINSON
three popular local eateries.
It began with a saucy and spicy tale about the origins of an aunty’s saucy and spicy dumpling recipe. From there, the evening followed a theme as we followed our guide on a short tour of some of Pukekohe’s ‘hotspots’.
First came lemongrass beef summer rolls at SuMei. The name may sound like something said during an argument over legal responsibilities, but it’s much more (or less?) straightforward than that, meaning ‘simple beauty’. The dish, the service and the environment all lived up to this name.
Kai Franklin’s Moveable Feast could be described as a pub crawl for gastronomists, but it’s more than that. It’s not so much about eating local cuisine as it is about getting to know the locals by sampling their food. Beginning with dumplings and a cocktail courtesy of our host, Connie Clarkson, at Kai Franklin’s 1 Roulston Ave, Pukekohe, HQ, we sampled a snapshot of what’s on the menu at
Next, we strolled to Bazza’s Steak House. With cowboy hats and steer horns representative of its western-style décor, it was more brash and unapologetic, but it had every right to be. However, the crumbed fillet fingers constituted no backyard barbecue dish – the coatings and the accompanying range of sauces ensured that every bite could be a little
different while still highlighting the meat – we were not left wondering ‘Where’s the beef?’ Finally, The Good Home dished up dessert – Eton mess with berry compote, Chantilly whipped cream, berries and meringue. That’s a long way to say a glass of ‘yum’. Sweet flirted with tart as comparison and contrast did the heavy lifting. Each of the locations had its own identity, but the dishes had something in common – they were all simple on the surface but beneath there was a whole lot going on – that’s the best way my uneducated palate can describe it. Another way would be that, in the right hands, ‘simple’ can be (ironically) anything but ‘pedestrian.’
LIVE MUSIC
EVERY SUNDAY 1.00-4.00PM QUIZ NIGHT
EVERY WEDNESDAY AT 7.00PM SUNDAY ROAST
BAR & RESTAURANT GA
STROPUB
The
LIVE MUSIC
EVERY THURSDAY 5.30-8.30PM QUIZ NIGHT
PU
KEKO
HE
EVERY SUNDAY 5.00PM
EVERY MONDAY AT 7.00PM
OPEN 7 days from 11am to 10pm 65 Edinburgh Street Pukekohe
BAR, RESTAURANT & BEER GARDEN OPEN Tuesday to Sunday 11am - 10pm 943 East Coast Road Kaiaua
DINING
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 59
LOVING LUNA: MOON FOOD BITES B ACK By ISABELLA ROOT After a long-awaited return, the Luna Bites night market rolled into Pukekohe recently bringing music, food vendors and the unmistakable smell of deep-fried decision making. Lured by the yummy flavours wafting up Franklin Road, I headed into Navigation Homes Stadium to see what all the fuss was about while, admittedly, attempting to quell a rumbling stomach. As it turns out, I wasn’t the only one with this plan in mind – the event was bustling with families and even a dog or two in tow. There was no shortage of food on offer from seafood boil-ups to South Asian dishes, Hawaiian barbecue and trending sweet treats – the hardest part of the night was simply in the choosing. Fortunately, having dragged my far-moredecisive partner along with me, I was actually able to eat rather than spend all evening
ogling everyone else’s dinners while trying to make up my mind. And, eat we did! We smashed back some brisket-loaded fries that were drenched in gravy and doused with sauteed onions (sacrilege in my books!) but well worth it as the brisket was wonderful. Of course, we had to grab a dessert for the road – we opted for a chocolatey pistachio brownie that was fudgy enough to make a sweet tooth drool. The Luna Bites markets crop up in locations all over Auckland, but when they next appear in Franklin, you can bet I’ll be lining up for more.
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.
$10.99 LUNCH SPECIAL Enjoy a delicious curry, rice & naan. Butter Chicken and Tikka Masala only - all other curries full price Available every day except Mon & Sat. Dinner is full price, check the menu online *Conditions Apply
FREE MEAL ON YOUR BIRTHDAY FREE COMmUNITY MEAL SUpPORt Recovering from surgery or illness? If you’re unable to cook, enjoy a free hot Indian meal from The India Restaurant & Bar. Medical documentation is required. Limited to 10 meals per branch. For orders or more information, contact Mukesh – 027 730 0007.
www.theindiarestaurant.co.nz TUAKAU 37B George Street Tuakau 09 236 9800
POKENO 42 McDonald Road Pokeno 09 233 6999
PUKEKOHE 130 King Street Pukekohe 09 947 8700
Owner Mukesh cooking classes starting next week, please follow us on intagram & face book
60 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
DINING
HELP BY THE TROLLEY LOAD By ISABELLA ROOT Pukekohe’s Fitness League has shown how far a few extra grocery items from its members can stretch by donating a tableful of essentials to the community food bank at St Andrews Anglican Church in Pukekohe. The League’s Nina North says the group of 20 never set out to move mountains, only to support a good cause without burning a hole in anyone’s wallet. “We just felt that we’re all fortunate – I wouldn’t say that we are living in the lap of luxury, but we all manage financially,” she says. “If, by grabbing something extra during our regular shopping trips, we’re able to help others, we are happy to do so.” However, the turnout was bigger than she had expected – a trolley was filled to overflowing when transporting contributions provided by the group. “I’m just amazed,” North says. “I knew there was going to be a lot, but then we had to think about how we were going to get all of this stuff into the car!” Jan Wallace from Pukekohe Community Action,
Pukekohe’s Fitness League donation. which runs the food bank, says the donation comes at a time when the demand for support services is rising. More than 900 food parcels were distributed by the food bank by the end of August this year alone. “Food is a huge issue,” she explains. “We are so blessed by local growers as well as other local people who donate food.” Food banks rely on goodwill. This extends from local growers with fresh produce, to community groups, such as the Fitness
Authentic Italian Flavours Unforgettable Moments
Visit Mizzoni at
64 Seddon Street, Pukekohe
Photo Isabella Root
League, who extend a helping hand one grocery item at a time. The League’s donation will help feed local families in need, but Wallace says the gesture will be experienced beyond the dinner table, helping to foster good mental health as well as full bellies. While the League’s donation is substantive, even the smallest-scale donations add up. For details or to donate to the food bank visit pukekohecommunityaction.co.nz.
CHEESEBURGER
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Onion, Mustard, Ketchup, Aioli
stICKY BISHOP
SMASH PRINCE
14.5
DIRTY DUKE
SMASH PRINCE
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Onion, Mustard, Ketchup, Aioli
.9
TRIPLE
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Ketchup, Aioli
pitmaster DIRTY DUKE20 25
Western 20 25 ROYAL BIG SMOKE
Smash Queen pitmaster
DOUBLE
Smash Queen
9.5 17.9
+6 .5
SUPERNASH Royale
15.9 22.9 27.9
TRIPLE
KING ED
DOUBLE
Caesar
.9
SUPERNASH
15.9
Bang Bang Chicken, Cheese, Lettuce, Bang Bang Mayo
CHARBOY KING ED
.5
18.5
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Original Pickles, Chicken, Fresh Lettuce, Cheese, Streaky Bacon, Onion, REsauce on a ¾ Lettuce, Size SoftTomato, Slammer Bun REsauce
Sando
10.5
HOTSHOT
ALLstAR
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Onion, Ketchup, Mustard on a ¾ Size Soft Slammer Bun
CHARBOY
10.5
VEGE BURGS CauLI Crush Sando V
REHAB HOTSHOT
11.9 10.9
V
Crunchy Fried Cauli VG , V , Lettuce, Original Cheese Chicken, Cheese, Aioli VG , Pickles, Honey Buffalo Size Soft Aioli on Va,¾ Sauce Toasted Milk Slammer Bun V Bun
Crispy Chick'n Katsu VG , Original Chicken, Fresh Fresh Lettuce, Bang Lettuce, AioliVGon Bang Mayo onaa¾¾ Soft Size SizeSo SoftSlammer SlammerBun Bun V
Firebird
10.9
11 SAME BIG TASTE, ¾ THE SIZE .5
Original Chicken, Cheese, Crunchy Onion Rings, Chipotle Mayo, Smoky BBQ on a ¾ Size Soft Slammer Bun
Sidekick
10.9
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Crunchy Onion Rings, Aioli, Mustard, Smoky BBQ on a ¾ Size Soft Slammer Bun
11.5 19.5
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Original Pickles, Chicken, Lettuce, Tomato, Smoked Cheddar,Aioli Onion, Ketchup, Double on a ¾ Streaky Size SoftBacon, Lettuce, Crispy Slammer Bun Shallots, Caesar Dressing
SuperNash Chicken, Pickles, Fresh Lettuce, Aioli on a ¾ Size Soft Slammer Bun
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Fresh Lettuce, Onion, REsauce on a ¾ Size So Soft Slammer Bun
9.5 10.5
Sidekick Caesar
10.9 18.9
SLAMMER BURGS Original Chicken, Cheese, Pickles, Aioli on a ¾ Size Soft Slammer Bun
9.5
Pickles, Lettuce, Aioli SAME BIG TASTE, ¾ THE SIZE
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Original CrunchyChicken, Onion Rings, Cheese, StreakySmoky Bacon, Aioli, Mustard, Grilled BBQ onPineapple, a ¾ Size Soft Lettuce, Aioli, Smoky Slammer Bun BBQ
10.9
15.9
SuperNash Chicken,
SLAMMER BURGS ALLstAR ORIGINAL GEORGE 10
19.5
Original Chicken, Smoked Cheddar, Double Streaky Bacon, Lettuce, Crispy Shallots, Caesar Dressing
+Bacon, 6 .5 Cheese, Streaky Grilled Pineapple, Lettuce, Aioli, Smoky BBQ
REGENT RED
TRIPLE
SuperNash Chicken, Double Beef, Double Pickles,NZ Lettuce, Aioli Cheese, Smoked Cheddar, Double Streaky Bacon, Caramelised Onions, Pickles, Aioli
18 DOU BLE CHICK Original Chicken, EN
15.5
.9
Double NZ Beef, Double 19.9 Cheese, Smoked Cheddar, Double Streaky Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Bacon, Caramelised Streaky Fried Onions,Bacon, Pickles, Aioli Egg, Lettuce, Caramelised Onions, Beetroot, Ketchup, Aioli
Bang Bang Chicken, Double Beef, Cheese,NZ Lettuce, Double Cheese, Crunchy Bang Bang Mayo Onion Rings, Chipotle Mayo, Smoky BBQ
18.5
TRIPLE
.9
DOUBL E CHICK EN
DOUBLE
Original Chicken, Cheese, Pickles, Lettuce, Onion, REsauce
Original Chicken, Fresh Lettuce, Aioli on a ¾ Size Soft Slammer Bun
KATSUPREME LIL'CHICK
DOUBLE
15.9 20.9 25.9
Original Chicken, Cheese, Streaky Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato, REsauce
15.5
Royale LEGEND 22 27
.9
Double NZ Beef, 17.9 Double Cheese, Crunchy Onion Rings, Chipotle Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Mayo, Smoky BBQ Streaky Bacon, Pickles, Crunchy Onion Rings, Aioli, Smoky BBQ
REGENT RED Western
15.9
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Lettuce, Tomato, Caramelised Onions, RESauce
TRIPLE
CHICKEN BURGS
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Original Pickles, Chicken, Onion, Ketchup, Cheese, MustardDouble on a ¾Streaky Size Soft Bacon, Caramelised Slammer Bun Onions, Chipotle Mayo, Smoky BBQ
LIL'CHEESE
.9
TRIPLE
ORIGINAL GEORGE
Original Chicken, Lettuce, Tomato, Aioli
LIL'CHICK
DOUBLE
Original Chicken, Double Beef, Lettuce, Cheese,NZ Pickles, Double Onion, Cheese, REsauceStreaky Bacon, Caramelised Onions, Mustard, Aioli, Smoky BBQ
Original Chicken, Cheese, Double Streaky Bacon, Caramelised Onions, Chipotle Mayo, Smoky BBQ
LIL'CHEESE HOLY SMOKE
.9
15.5 20.9 25.9
TRIPLE
Original Chicken, Double Beef, Aioli Lettuce,NZ Tomato, Double Cheese, Fresh Onions, Pickles, Aioli, Ketchup, Mustard
QUEEN CHICK
TRIPLE
Double NZ Beef, 17.9 Double Cheese, Streaky Bacon, Caramelised Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Onions, Mustard, Aioli, Streaky Smoky Bacon, BBQ Pickles, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Mustard, Aioli, Smoky BBQ
15.5 18.9 23.9
17.9
FAMOUS CAstLE
15.9
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Lettuce, Onion, REsauce
.9
19.9
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Streaky Bacon, Fried Egg, Lettuce, Caramelised Onions, Beetroot, Ketchup, Aioli
.5 +6Bacon, Streaky Pickles, Crunchy Onion Rings, Aioli, Smoky BBQ
CHICKEN SIGNATUREBURGS STACKS
DOUBLE
LEGEND
17.9
DOUBL E BEBeef, EF Cheese, Pure NZ
GREAT KING
14.9
DOUBLE
23.9
Open 7 days: 10am to 10pm Dine in or Takeaway
HOLY SMOKE
ROYAL BIG SMOKE
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Lettuce, Tomato, Caramelised Onions, RESauce
SIGNATURE STACKS
Double NZ Beef, 16.9 Double Cheese, Fresh Onions, Pickles, Aioli, Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Ketchup, Mustard Double Streaky Bacon, Caramelised Onions, Chipotle Mayo, Smoky BBQ
QUEEN CHICK Classic
17.9
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Streaky Bacon, Pickles, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Mustard, Aioli, Smoky BBQ
14.5
DOUBLE
SEPTEMBER 2026 15.9
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Ketchup, Aioli
BEEF BURGS
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Double Streaky Bacon, Caramelised Onions, Chipotle Mayo, Smoky BBQ
Classic stICKY BISHOP18
SAMPLE FAMOUSMENU CAstLE
15.9
NEW MENU OUT NOW! Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Lettuce, Onion, REsauce
16.9
CHEESEBURGER
GREAT KING
14.9
11.5
Pure NZ Beef, Cheese, SWAP FOR A GLUTEN FREE/VEGAN BUN +2.5 Pickles, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Ketchup, Aioli on a ¾ Size Soft Slammer Bun
16.5 10.9
IMPOSSIBLE™ GREAT KING Firebird 17
.5
V
11.5
Impossible 'Beef' VG , Original NudairyChicken, Cheese VG, Cheese, Pickles,Crunchy Lettuce, Onion Tomato, Rings, Mayo, Onion,Chipotle Ketchup, Aioli VG , Smoky BBQ onBun a ¾VSize Toasted Milk So Soft Slammer Bun
Southern Fried Halloumi V , SuperNash Chicken, Lettuce, Sweet Pickles, V , Pickles, Fresh Lettuce, Honey, REsauce V ¾ Size Aioli on aMilk Toasted BunSoft Slammer Bun
VEGE BURGS BUNDLE IT UP
SWAP FOR A GLUTEN FREE/VEGAN BUN +2.5
T KATSUPREME E THE HEA TAST 9
CauLI Crush
IMPOSSIBLE™ GREAT KING
17.5
V
8.9
+
V
Cheese V , Lettuce, Aioli VG , Honey Buffalo Sauce V , Toasted Milk Bun V
Lettuce, Sweet Add Pickles, Side of Fries V , Honey, REsauceand 420ml Drink Toasted Milk Bun V
Impossible 'Beef' VG , Nudairy Cheese VG, Pickles, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Ketchup, Aioli VG , Toasted Milk Bun V
BUNDLE IT UP TENDER BOXES
TASTE THE HEAT
ADD A SIDE OF FRIES
LOUISIANA: Crave-worthy goodness with a kick of legendary southern heat
20 BANGEdinburgh BANG: Irresistibly addictiveStreet, chicken that 78-84 Edinburgh Street, 78-84 78-84 Edinburgh Street, packs a fresh, spicy punch 3 Original Chicken Tenders, Pukekohe Pukekohe Pukekohe Texas-Toast, SUPERNASH: Unstoppable chicken fiery, Crunchy Fries, Secret Sauce
V
VG
SUPERNASH: Unstoppable chicken - fiery, finger-lickin' greatness
finger-lickin' greatness
16.5 IT MAKE COMBO Southern Fried A Halloumi ,
V
LOUISIANA: Crave-worthy goodness a kick Crispy Chick'n Katsu VGwith , of legendary southern heat Bang Fresh Lettuce, Bang Mayo VG on a ¾ V Size Soft Slammer BANG BANG: Irresistibly addictiveBun chicken that packs a fresh, spicy punch
ORIGINAL BOX
REHAB
ADD A SIDE11.9+5.6 OF FRIES Crunchy Fried Cauli ,
.5
.9
MAKE IT A COMBO
5.6
+
Louisiana Box
21.9
3 Louisiana Chicken Tenders, Texas Toast, Crunchy Fries, Pickles, Secret Sauce
Add Side of Fries and 420ml Drink
8.9
+
Supernash BOX
21 Open 7 days: 10am 10pm Open Open 7 days: 7 days: 10am 10am to to 10pm to 10pm 3 SuperNash Chicken Dine or Takeaway Dine Dine in in orin Takeaway or Takeaway Tenders, Texas Toast, Crunchy Fries, Pickles, Secret Sauce
.9
FOOD A perfectly cooked Scotch fillet (boneless ribeye) with a classic creamy peppercorn (Steak au Poivre) sauce.
LIFESTYLE
HOW TO COOK THE PERFECT STEAK WITH CREAMY PEPPERCORN S AUCE INGREDIENTS Steak • 500g scotch fillet steak • 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns, coarsely crushed • Sea salt flakes • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed • A few sprigs of thyme or rosemary Creamy Peppercorn Sauce • 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided • ½ shallot, very finely diced • ¼ cup cognac or brandy • ½ cup Gault’s Beef Stock, made by dissolving 1 to 2 tablespoons of Gault’s Beef Stock Concentrate in 125ml hot water • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard • ½ cup cream
METHOD Steak Remove scotch fillet from the fridge 1–2 hours before cooking – this helps it cook evenly. Coarsely crush the peppercorns in a mortar and pestle – you want small pieces rather than a fine powder. Pat steak completely dry with paper towels. Just before cooking, sprinkle salt flakes generously over your chopping board and press both sides of the steak into the salt. Press half the crushed peppercorns firmly onto both sides to create an even coating. Heat a cast iron pan over medium-high heat
until very hot. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the pan, then add the crushed garlic and thyme or rosemary. Carefully lay the steak into the pan and cook without moving for 1 minute. Turn with tongs and cook the second side for 1 minute. Reduce the heat to medium. This allows the steak to continue cooking evenly without the outside becoming too dark before the centre reaches the correct temperature. Continue cooking, turning every minute and checking with a digital meat thermometer, until the steak reaches approximately 6°C below your desired finished temperature. Regular turning helps it cook evenly from edge to centre while developing a deep, caramelised crust. Transfer to a wire rack set over a plate or tray and rest for 8–10 minutes. The steak will continue cooking as it rests, while the juices redistribute through the meat. Creamy Peppercorn Sauce Remove the garlic and herbs from the pan. Pour away excess oil or rendered fat, leaving about 1 teaspoon along with the caramelised bits on the base of the pan. Return the pan to medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter and the finely diced shallot. Cook gently for about 2 minutes, stirring regularly, until softened but not coloured.
until reduced by about half. Add Gault’s Beef Stock and simmer for two minutes. Stir in Dijon mustard and remaining peppercorns. Add cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook until sauce lightly coats the back of a spoon, then pour in any resting juices from the steak. Remove from heat and whisk in remaining tablespoon of cold butter until sauce is glossy and silky. Taste and season with salt flakes if required. To serve Serve the scotch fillet whole or sliced across the grain. Spoon over the peppercorn sauce and serve with crisp fries, creamy mashed potato, buttered green beans or a simple green salad.
SIMON SAYS
Pat steak completely dry to help develop a rich, caramelised crust – moisture prevents browning. Season just before cooking, salting too early can draw moisture to the surface. Press the peppercorns onto the steak before cooking so they toast in the pan, creating the classic Steak au Poivre flavour. Always make the sauce in the same pan. The caramelised bits (fond) left behind are packed with flavour and form the base of a great peppercorn sauce.
Add the cognac or brandy. Carefully flambé if you’re confident doing so, otherwise simmer
Watch recipe video here!
TASTE WITH GAULT gaultsdeli.co.nz
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, October 9, 2026 | 63
WATCH
LISTEN
READ
MOVIE REVIEW BY JACK WATSON
NOTEWORTHY PODCASTS
BEST NEW BOOKS
HOPE DIRECTOR: Na Hong-jin GENRE: Sci-fi/action STARRING: Hwang Jung-min, Zo In-sung, Jung Ho-yeon, Taylor Russell, Cameron Britton, Alicia Vikander, and Michael Fassbender. RATING: Five stars There are two essentials a monster movie needs to succeed, those being suspense and scale, and Na Hong-jin’s action science-fiction masterclass perfects both of these elements. The 160-minute runtime gives the film enough space to slowly drip-feed you enough information as to what is causing all this trouble, and once the mystery has gone long enough, the creature is revealed in the most ferocious way possible. The film’s sense of scale is also immaculate; making the aliens as massive as possible only adds to the experience. Whether it is cinematography taken from the human’s perspective or extreme wide shots that show the extent of their size, the action is only intensified through this use of scale and for a film that nears three hours, the film absolutely blasts through. The length is managed through dynamic editing, jumping between two different perspectives; the film never feels like it’s stopping and starting and feels like one continuous narrative. Hope is not only the action film of the year, but the best film to be released this year, period. > Jack Watson saw Hope at Monterey Howick.
KIWI YARNS In each episode, Brodie Kane sits down with a different Kiwi to share their story. Check out August’s edition: Sam the Trap Man on Life, Bush Medicine, and Connection. Sam Gibson, better known as Sam the Trap Man, drops by for a proper yarn about life in the bush. He opens up about how nature saved him from a wild patch in his youth, the harsh reality of professional trapping in Fiordland, and using native plants like koromiko as bush medicine. Plus, he breaks down why getting people back outdoors is the secret to fixing our environment.
FASHION NEUROSIS Each week, join fashion designer Bella Freud as she invites a special guest to lie on the couch and explore the connection between fashion and identity. Bella’s conversations begin with questions about style: what we reveal and hide through the clothes we wear. Through a series of tailored questions, Bella creates a relaxed, intimate atmosphere where her guests – ranging from fashion icons to cultural figures in sport, art, music, film, and literature – reveal more about themselves than they might expect. Fashion Neurosis with Bella Freud offers a unique, thoughtful, and engaging conversation that goes far beyond what we wear, diving into the unspoken language of clothing and the ways in which we use style to navigate and communicate in the world.
WISE WORDS 8 OCTOBER
CAPTAIN’S DINNER, RRP $38.99 On May 19, 1884, the yacht Mignonette sailed from England to Australia. When their vessel sank in the Atlantic, Captain Dudley and his crew found themselves adrift in a tiny lifeboat. As days turned to weeks, they faced an unthinkable choice: starve or resort to cannibalism. Their decision to sacrifice the 17-yearold cabin boy Richard Parker ignited a firestorm of controversy. Dudley and his crew later found themselves at the centre of Regina v Dudley and Stephens, a landmark murder trial that would establish the legal precedent that necessity cannot justify murder. Adam Cohen’s book strikes at the heart of a question that haunts us all: When does survival justify murder?
THE CAIRO BRIDAL SHOP,
RRP $38
Tess Woods’ latest novel picks up after bridal shop owner Mariam Albi’s tragic death and the impact this has on the lives of her three daughters. Bound to the dress shop and her demanding husband, eldest daughter Sarah finds herself trapped with nowhere to turn. Meanwhile, political journalist Aya is writing the story of her career while on the cusp of a thrilling new relationship with Australian-raised journalist Gamal. When Gamal is arrested on suspicion of treason, Aya risks her life to follow her heart. University student Lola is looking for her place in the world. When her secret is exposed, her life is put in grave danger as she faces losing everything and everyone she loves.
What's on in Franklin
DINING
64 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Brought to you by the Rural and Lifestyle Sales Team Barfoot & Thompson Pukekohe | Tuakau | Pokeno
October/November 26
Pukekohe Travel Cruise & Travel Expo 2026
Papakura Art Group Competition Day
Tuesday, October 13, 4pm to 6.30pm, Navigation Homes Stadium, 21 Stadium Drive, Pukekohe
Wednesday, October 14, 1.30pm to 3pm, Elizabeth Campbell Hall, Chapel St, Papakura
Discover your next holiday at the Pukekohe Travel Cruise & Travel Expo, showcasing a range of exciting travel options including ocean and river cruising, coach tours, the Chatham Islands, Australian rail journeys, New Zealand rail tours and Pukekohe Travel escorted tours. The event is free to attend, but registration is required through the Pukekohe Travel website.
The Art Group’s Competition Day is open to the public, and will have People’s Choice voting between 1.30pm and 2pm. Afternoon tea follows. This year’s judge is Mike Geers, who is a curator with his own gallery on the North Shore. Following the competition, the prize-winning artworks, and other entries, will be on exhibition at the Papakura Sir Edmund Hillary Library from October 16 to November 4.
The Gluten Free Food Festival
Boogie in the Vines 2026
Saturday, October 31, 9am to 4pm, Due Drop Events Centre, Manukau
Saturday, October 31, 1pm to 6pm, Turanga Creek Vineyard, 133 Whitford Park Road
The Gluten Free Food Festival returns to Auckland for its fourth year, bringing together a wide range of 100 per cent gluten-free products from local and national brands. Visitors can discover everyday essentials, baked goods, snacks, sweets and ready-to-eat options, alongside gluten-free food trucks. The family-friendly festival offers a welcoming space for those living with coeliac disease, gluten intolerance or simply exploring a gluten-free lifestyle.
Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of music, dancing, drinks and community spirit in the beautiful vineyard setting of Turanga Creek. Gather your friends and get ready to groove as 80sX and Coco Rocky take you on a journey through the decades with crowd-favourite hits guaranteed to keep the vineyard dance floor buzzing. All while knowing you’re helping make a meaningful difference for patients and whānau receiving hospice care.
Ryan Young
Chris Hirini
Kim Neill
Brendon Moore
Ginny Cheyne
Glynn Findlay
Grayson Higgie
Jason Tabrum
Lea-Ann Higgie
Luke Jupp
Branch Manager
Assistant Manager
Rural Sales Manager
027 238 6660
021 405 462
027 800 0530
027 362 3720
022 567 9662
021 497 517
021 160 8005
DINING 177 King Street
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 65
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
Photo Rikki Coulthard.
October Raceday
WSW Megamania Auckland – Live Pro Wrestling
Wednesday, October 28, 12pm to 7pm, Pukekohe Park, 222/250 Manukau Road, Pukekohe
Thursday, October 29, 7.30pm to 10.30pm, Due Drop Events Centre, Manukau
Head to Pukekohe Park for a relaxed day of midweek racing and enjoy the chance to get trackside and support the sport. This industry raceday offers owners, trainers and racing enthusiasts the opportunity to see their horses in action. The grandstand opens at 12pm, with the first race at 12.55pm. General admission is free, with private rooms and hospitality options available to hire.
Get ready for a huge night of live professional wrestling as World Series Wrestling and Aotearoa Wrestling bring WSW Megamania to Auckland for a one-night-only, all-ages event. The action-packed show features former WWE stars and current talent from AEW, TNA and Japan, including Killer Kross, Scarlett Bordeaux, Andrade, Shayna Baszler, Sammy Guevara, Buddy Matthews, The Inspiration and Naito.
Pukekohe Diwali Carnival
Halloween Movie Night
Saturday, October 31, 5pm to 9pm, PIA Event Centre, Ward Street, Pukekohe
Saturday, October 31, from 8pm, The Green, Paerata Rise
Celebrate the Festival of Lights at the annual Pukekohe Diwali Carnival, hosted by the Pukekohe Indian Association and Franklin Indian Cultural Club. The community is invited to come together for an evening celebrating Diwali, Indian culture and community spirit in the heart of Pukekohe. Entry is free.
Get into the Halloween spirit with a family movie night at Paerata Rise. Hotel Transylvania tells the story of a hotel for monsters – chaos and comedy follow when an unexpected human guest arrives. The movie will screen outdoors making it the perfect follow-up for trick-or-treating. Bring a bean bag or picnic rug and settle in under the stars. Dress-ups are encouraged, with prizes during the night.
Mary-Louise Squire
Neil Sharpe
Nicola McPherson
Payton Murphy
Rachael Rush
Ruby McPherson
Scott McElhinney
Sophie Boardman
Stephanie Alderlieste
Trudy Boyce
021 996 050
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
SPORT
66 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
OVER – THE HILL… Drivers were seen heading for the hills recently as Murray Road, Pukekawa played host to the Pukekohe Car Club. A keen motoring enthusiast – that’s ‘petrolhead’ in old money – Rikki Coulthard (Pukekohe Franklin Camera Club) wasn’t far behind them during the Murray Rd Hill Climb, as these photos reveal. See the photos section at franklintimes.co.nz for more.
SOLUTIONS Puzzle 3 R I
W C
V A
S N
R N
L R
O
S
Y
I P
H F
O
M
A
E
R
A
S
G
N
E
T
C
R
R R
M
A
N
A
A
E
W
H E
H
A
A
R
T
I
C
I
I
L
N
C
E
T I
T
S
A
S
R A
L
N U
L
P A
T
L
S
T
U I
W H
A
N
A
O
E
R I
D
Y E
E
E
R S
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS SUDOKU 1 7 2 6 8 5 4 3 9 3 4 7 9 2 6 8 5 1 7 1 4 2 6 3 5 9 8
6 4 5 1 9 3 2 7 8 8 2 6 5 1 4 7 3 9 9 8 2 4 5 7 3 6 1
FILL IN THE BLANKS
Puzzle 4
9 8 3 4 7 2 6 5 1 5 1 9 8 3 7 2 4 6 3 6 5 1 9 8 7 2 4
C H
M A
I C
O
U
T
P
S
O
R
K
I
D
E
A
A
H
E U
E R
N
D
L E
Y
E
O
T
C
G
G
R
R
A
O
T
L
S
A G
U
B
T
A
S
T
Y
L
H E
E
R
S
T E
R
I
E
F
O
E
I
G S
H
V
E L
E
E
O
T
H A
O
R
R
S
T
S S
E I
A
H S
L
S
PUZUP 9X9
CROSSWORD QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8213 - SOLUTIONS Across - 6, Circumvent. 8, Avid. 9, Sour. 10, Alert. 11, Exam. 12, Irritable. 16, Breakable. 20, Opal. 22, Eager. 23, Tome. 24, Gala. 25, Proficient. Down - 1, Rigour. 2, Scorpio. 3, Impala. 4, Reveal. 5, State. 7, Rival. 13, Bee. 14, Captain. 15, Spear. 17, Region 18, Adroit. 19, Lament. 21, Leapt. CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8213 - SOLUTIONS Across - 6, Figure’s out. 8, (Al)Anne(gotiations). 9, Poor. 10, O-wing. 11, Slow. 12, Take after. 16, On account. 20, Inch (anag.). 22, Ar-ti-e. 23, Cow-L. 24, Bolt. 25, Couch-grass. Down - 1, M-imos-A. 2, Curried. 3, Get off. 4, Doc-I-L-e. 5, S-tag-S. 7, End-ow. 13, Tea (tee). 14, Concern. 15, An-to-n. 17, Not out. 18, Cre-ch-e. 19, Ne-we-st. 21, H-atch.
SPORT
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 67
DRNZ spares horses By JON RAWLINSON
E
questrian sports are often taken on at full charge, but in distance riding it pays to hold one’s horses. Competitors wrapped up the third of three Distance Riding NZ (DRNZ) rides through Waiuku’s North Forest at the weekend, proving that slow and steady really can win the race. DRNZ secretary Gemma Acton was among the win- Gemma Acton. ners. Fortune shone on her, Distance riding tests but fortunately the sun didn’t stamina, fitness and teamshine too brightly. “I won the 40-kilometre work of both horse and rider Enduro Series and I’m pretty over long-distance courses. Riders are given optimum chuffed about that. I’ve been trying to win the series for times to complete courses a few years, so it was very with penalties if they finish good to finally tick it off the too quickly, too slowly and if horses are pushed too hard – list,” she says. “The weather was perfect. heart rates are taken before No wind or rain and because and after the rides. it was overcast, the 1horses 2page).pdf 29/09/2026Some 2:07of PM the most prized silverware in the sport was didn’t get too hot either.”
C
M
Saturday 21 November
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Pukekohe, it’s time to make a day of it. Exciting racing, great food and drinks, fashion, entertainment and plenty of atmosphere. Whether you’re a racing fan or simply looking for a fun day out with friends and family, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
GET YOUR TICKETS AT pukekohepark.co.nz
Photo Kerry Rowe Photography
on the line in Waiuku. “In the full Enduro series, competitors cover 40km at all three events. It’s challenging to get horses ready straight out of winter, but we’ve had a very competitive bunch of hardy riders,” Acton explains. “The 20/30/40 km series is also popular. Riders covered 20km at the August event, 30km in September and 40km in October. It’s a great
way for experienced competitors to get back into the swing of things and for newbies to step up.” However, not everyone was chasing trophies and there’s a place for novices too. “Some aimed for series wins, others to build fitness and some were just enjoying the scenery,” Acton adds. “We love introducing new riders to our sport. It’s a great way to meet people while exploring our country. “The beauty of [the Waiuku] location and early season timing is that we have showjumpers and eventers out training, happy hackers trying something new and competitive endurance riders all out together.” The Waiuku events were the first in the 2026/27 season, so riders will still have more time to take their time. For full results and further information visit distanceridingnewzealand.co.nz.
SPORT
68 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Pickle paddle, power!
A
lthough the sport draws its name from boat races (meaning a mixed or makeshift crew), pickleball players use their paddles rather differently than oarsmen. In addition, as crowds and players at the recent Southside Slam Pickleball competition can attest, there’s no longer anything makeshift about the sport these days.
Pickleball has similarities to other racquet sports, but this high-energy game has become popular worldwide due, in part, to its accessibility, suiting players of almost any age or level of ability. John Hayward (Pukekohe Franklin Camera Club) was courtside at the Slam, held at
Pulman Arena, Takanini, to capture the action.
Photos John Hayward (PFCC)
SPORT
Come and Visit our New Showhome
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 69
100 years’ local service By JON RAWLINSON
Traditionally, games of tennis can last hours; in Pukekohe, the game’s been going for almost 100 years. The Pukekohe East Tennis Club is soon to host its centennial, taking a little time to reflect on a long and proud history of raising a racket. “We’ll be reconnecting with people who have been part of the club over many years,” club captain Carolyn Cornu says. “While preparing
for the event, in some cases we’ve met people who used to play years ago, so we’ve been restoring connections that we didn’t even know that we had!” The event, on October 17, will offer plenty for players and spectators alike. “There will be plenty of games, including some using old wooden racquets, so there will be lots of people out on the courts, as well as some lovely prizes from sponsors and a range of fun activities.”
The backing of local families has been crucial to keeping the game alive. “The thing that characterises our club most is that it’s very family friendly – some families have had multiple generations involved with the club. We have about 70 members now, but we also have parents and grandparents who may not play themselves, but they’re [courtside] every Saturday watching their children.” The club’s longevity has
also been due to focusing on the future, Cornu confirms. “We have a great junior following, but they’re not just playing locally – we also make pathways for them to compete in Auckland. As their appetite for tennis increases, they need [a higher level] of competition to achieve their full potential.” As principal of Pukekohe East School, Cornu knows what it takes to help young people reach their potential. While no Wimbledon winners have sprung from Pukekohe East, at least not yet, Cornu is confident that it’s only a matter of time. “There’s been a lot of young players, of school age, come through who have been among the best in Counties. Some are aspiring to become professional tennis players one day.” Fortunately, with the club’s backing, locals can learn the ropes while at the nets if they’re keen to rise above grassroots level. Should this continue for another 100 years, the future of the club could be even brighter than its past.
Come and Visit our New Showhome
Thursday Opens to Sunday March 12, 2026 10am-2pm
Opens March 12, 2026
QUALITY. CRAFTSMANSHIP. PEACE OF MIND.
Aoki Homes Homes is is proud proud to to be be a a trusted trusted build build partner partner at at Park Park Green. Green. Whether Whether Aoki you’re looking looking for for a a house house and and land land package package or or want want to to bring bring your your dream dream you’re design to to life, life, our our experienced experienced team team will will guide guide you you every every step step of of the the way. way. design With a a strong strong focus focus on on attention attention to to detail detail and and personal personal service, service, Aoki Aoki Homes Homes With creates spaces spaces that that families families truly truly love love to to live live in. in. creates
Contact us us today today about about building building your your future future at at Park Park Green Green || info@aokihomes.co.nz info@aokihomes.co.nz || www.aokihomes.co.nz www.aokihomes.co.nz Contact 24 Emerald Emerald Avenue Avenue Park Park Green Green Karaka Karaka 24
70 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
SPORT
WITH THEIR SHIELD, NOT ON IT It’s been a bitter season for the Counties Manukau Steelers, but by taming the Northland Taniwha to win the Ranfurly Shield and then sending challengers, the Hawke’s Bay Magpies flying away home, the province has been proudly showing its colours. Pukekohe Franklin Camera Club’s Susie Hare was sideline at Navigation Homes Stadium along with many, many others, as these photos show.
SPORT
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 71
Fern drives own ‘bus’
By JON RAWLINSON
F
ans could state that the Black Ferns are ‘simply the best,’ last minute intercept tries by the world’s number one rated Red Roses aside, that is. Despite ending their Northern Hemisphere tour on a loss to England (19–26), these wahine toa still have more to play for. Among them is Counties Manukau Heat’s Tara Turner who provided impact off the bench after a player of the match performance against Scotland the week prior. Success comes from working as an individual and as part of a team, she told the Times. “I think everyone has bought into the vision of how we want to be as Black Ferns. Everyone is also the driver of their own bus, leading themselves to be the best versions of themselves,” she says. “We have a saying about striving for greatness – we
Tara Turner scores against Scotland at The Hive Stadium, Edinburgh. Photo Alphapix acknowledge where we are, but we’re always wanting to go from good to great.” Able to cover virtually every backline position, Turner’s versatility is impressive, but it’s at halfback that this relatively new recruit is making her mark. Turner was impressive during her first start for the Black Ferns, their 66–14 victory against Scotland in Edinburgh late last month.
“I’m happy with how I played. It was awesome to get my first start. It was a fast game, but I like playing fast so it went well with the type of player I am,” the Blues star says. “I was shocked to get player of the match, I wasn’t expecting it, I was just doing my job [and] everyone around me made my job so much easier.” Now heading home, the Black Ferns will face France
in a three match series, from October 17. The Ferns won 28–24 the last time these two teams met in Lyon, September 13, but the French will be no easy-beats. “I didn’t get many minutes against France, so to play them again would be cool.” Turner says. “If I do, it will be my first Test at home so I’m super excited. We’re playing in Whangarei [October 24] where I grew up. I’m looking forward to that as I’ll definitely have family and friends on the sidelines.” Turner won the Farah Palmer Cup with Northland in 2023. Relatively new to the Heat, she sees potential in the ranks at Counties Manukau. “The Heat has young talent coming through with a lot of flair and physicality,” she adds. “A player I’m super excited to see develop is Sariyah Patai. She’s had a great season so far. Her growth this year has been huge, you can truly see her confidence coming through.”
Honda Used. Book a Test Drive Today 2025 Honda Jazz
2025 Honda Jazz
2024 Honda HR-V
2025 Honda ZR-V
2025 Honda ZR-V
2025 Honda Civic
$31,950
$47,950
$32,950
$39,950
Honda Store South Auckland 263 Gt South Rd, Drury 2113
$38,950
$50,950
09 890 9220 | 0274 830 949 www.honda.co.nz
SPORT
72 | Friday, October 9, 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 SHIELD HAPPENS
If Magpies’ fans thought their team would swoop in and steal away with the Steelers’ shiny thing, they were soon set straight. A heaving crowd at Pukekohe’s Navigation Homes Stadium flocked together at the weekend to see the Counties Manukau Steelers defend the Ranfurly Shield against the Hawke’s Bay Magpies, 12–7. With the shield, the Jonah Lomu Trophy (also contested by Wellington) and the Bruce Robertson Memorial Trophy (contested among Counties, Northland, Auckland and Hawke’s Bay) all in the trophy cabinet, it has been a successful season for the Steelers in one way. However, finishing 12th from 14 teams in the National Provincial Championship (NPC) won’t be acceptable to anyone in the organisation. Similarly, the Heat failed to fire in the Farah Palmer Cup (FPC) narrowly avoiding becoming the recipients of the infamous ‘wooden spoon’ in the Premiership by defeating a dormant, winless Bay of Plenty Volcanix in the final round. While finishing place-
Counties Manukau cheerleaders.
Photo Susie Hare (PFCC)
ment matters, it’s hard to knock either team for a lack of effort and it’s doubtful any such deficiency will follow them into the 2027 season.
clarksbeachyachtclub.org.nz for more information.
ROLL MODELS
Boccia was the game of choice at Pulman Arena in Takanini recently. As previously reported, competitors from throughout Australasia gathered for the 2026 NZ National Boccia Championships. A popular para sport, boccia is played by seated players on a smooth indoor court. Athletes propel leather balls towards a jack by throwing, kicking or using a ramp. Competitors are grouped by impairment type.
WIND-ING US UP
Clarks Beach Yacht Club is scanning the horizon for a new crew of sailors. The club’s upcoming Learn to Sail courses are (obviously!) for rookies aged nine and up, but participants could eventually be on course to higher honours in one of this country’s most popular sports. Courses begin on October 18. Contact the club via
NZ’s most trusted ventilation
5 YEARS IN A ROW! 6 202 s
om m eV te e n til a ti o n S y s
H
s
5 202 om m eV te e n til a ti o n S y s
H
H
H
H
s
4 202 om m eV te e n til a ti o n S y s
s
3 202 om m eV te e n til a ti o n S y s
s
2 202 om m eV te e n til a ti o n S y s
“[The championship] has been a fantastic celebration of boccia, headlined by quality matches on court and the crowning of three new national champions in the individual competition,” says Scott Martin, Boccia New Zealand’s GM. “Just as importantly, the championships provided a great opportunity to strengthen friendships, build new connections and bring our boccia community together off the court.” A complete list of medallists and further details are accessible via boccia.org.nz.
UN-FOR-NET-A-BALL?
The future of the ANZ Premiership is uncertain following a less-than-favourable result on the balance sheet. As previously reported, Northern Stars star shooter, Beachlands’ Amelia Walmsley is heading to the Melbourne Vixens next season and others could follow. However, a lifeline has been thrown by businesswoman Anna Mowbray and her husband, former All Black Ali Williams. Netball NZ is now working through details with the new investors.
More Results.
LIST |WITH BAYLEYS www.franklintimes.co.nz Friday, October 9, 2026 | 73PUKEK
PUZZLES
*Terms and conditions apply
Puzzled about Real Estate? WE HAVE THE ANSWERS
PUZZLE TIME
PUKEKOHE
FILL IN THE BLANKS FILL IN THE BLANKS NO. 8211
PUZUP PUZZLE NO. 18
1
2
3
4
5
P
6
7
8
R
9
10
14
11
15
12
13
S
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
4 letters CHER HAUL HAVE SHOE
HOW TO PLAY PUZUP® 7X7
• Use only the numbers 1-7, with each number appearing exactly nine 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 seven numbers (1-7) once. The centre square is shared by both diagonals and must be the same number. • Solution on page 66
4 LETTERS 5 letters 5 LETTERS Cher Death DEATH Haul Gorki GORKI Have Other OTHER Shoe Psoas PSOAS Roots ROOTS Rupia RUPIA Trees TREES Tyler TYLER
6 letters 6 LETTERS Astray ASTRAY Catgut CATGUT Keenly KEENLY Relief RELIEF
7 LETTERS Breathe Chicago Greyish Mustard Rostovs Sleighs Thunder Trifles
FIND 10 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.
MARKETING
ENERGY More Energy. y y. More Marketing. More Results. LIST WITH BAY BAYLEYS A LEYS PUKEKOHE NOW! AY *Terms *Te T rms and conditions apply Te
Use every word once. One or two starter letters are already shown.
IN AN T WIN CE TO NCE AN CHA THE CH + TH EV PHEV Q3 PH UDIIQ AU
STARTING FROM
$3,379
Ex. GST
LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008
021 404 871 sharleen.buchanan@bayleys.co.nz
7 letters BREATHE CHICAGO GREYISH MUSTARD ROSTOVS SLEIGHS THUNDER TRIFLES
PUZZLES
74 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
PUZZLE TIME CRYP TIC PUZZLE NO. 8213
1
ACROSS
DOWN
6. Deduces the number’s wrong (7,3). 8. When Alan finished, she started negotiations (4). 9. Second- rate, which is unfortunate (4). 10. Because of it, will a duck fly? (5). 11. It’s deliberate, stupid! (4). 12.Accept later that you do look like (4,5). 16. Because it’s awaiting payment (2,7). 20. Move Nicholas out at first (4). 22. Are taking it in turn to have him (5). 23. The hood does frighten the greenhorn (4). 24. Thunder “Shut up!” (4). 25. What to sit on for the picnic? (5-5).
1. So I’m arranging to take mother round a plant (6). 2. Tried to find favour with the Indian? (7). 3. Don’t be punished for,when you send (3,3). 4. The tame animal caught cold, I figure (6). 5. The animals get a label on board (5). 7. Stop and shout “Present” (5). 13. Leaves the stand, you say (3). 14. Have to do with business (7). 15. The woman has admitted to naming him (5). 17. At home and conscious (3,3). 18. The Indian child goes into the public nursery (6). 19. The most modern home we are occupying (6). 21. Come out and, hot and bothered, chat (5).
3
2
4
5 7
6 8 9
10 11 13
12
14 15
16
20
17
18
19
21 22
23
24 25
SUDOKU PUZZLE NO. 188
QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8213 1 2 6 8 1 4 3
8 4 7
2 6 5 3 5 4 2 1 7 3 6 5 6 3 7 9 8 7 4 9
ACROSS
DOWN
6. Bypass (10) 8. Zealous (4) 9. Bitter (4) 10. Watchful (5) 11. Test (4) 12. Testy (9) 16. Fragile (9) 20. Stone (4) 22. Keen (5) 23. Volume (4) 24. Festival (4) 25. Adept (10)
1. Severity (6) 2. Zodiac sign (7) 3. Animal (6) 4. Disclose (6) 5. Declare (5) 7. Competitor (5) 13. Insect (3) 14. Officer (7) 15. Missile (5) 17. Area (6) 18. Dexterous (6) 19. Dirge (6) 21. Jumped (5)
Puzzle answers on page 66
Blackhawk Law has been successfully serving the Pukekohe and Franklin community for over 20 years. Together our team hold decades of legal knowledge and experience. Contact us today.
09 283 8451
ross@blackhawklaw.co.nz
www.blackhawklaw.co.nz
66 King Street, Pukekohe
SAY YOU “SAW IT IN THE TIMES” BUILDERS
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 75
ENGINEERING
EARTHMOVING • 1.7 to 26 tonne diggers • Motor Scraper • Tip trucks & trailers • D65 bulldozer & scoop • Low loader • Grader • Rollers • Excavations • Hole Boring • Dams
• Tree Removal • Drainage • Roading • Stop banks • Building sites • Demolition • Horse arenas • Metal/ sand /slag supplied • General cartage
Operator Craig Nicholson Experienced 40 + years
Phone Mobile: 021 987 402 Earthmoving & General Cartage EARTHWORKS
ELECTRICIANS
• Alterations & Additions • Shop & Factory Fit outs • Minor Dwellings • Repairs and Maintenance CRAIG MARSHALL
M: 021 949 958
crmarshallbuilders@yahoo.co.nz
DRAINLAYER
RELIABLE & PROFESSIONAL RELIABLE & PROFESSIONAL For expert electrical solutions in Auckland, trust BW Henderson For expert electrical solutions in Auckland, trust BW Henderson Electrical. Whether you need residential, commercial, or Electrical. Whether you need residential, commercial, or industrial electrical work, our experienced team delivers safe, industrial electrical work, our experienced team delivers safe, ìðæìȭĪķăðĴřș ĊÌ ÐŨÆðÐĊĴ ĮÐīŒðÆÐȘ 9īďĉ ĊÐœ ðĊĮĴăăĴðďĊĮ Ĵď repairs andand maintenance, we’ve gotgot you covered. repairs maintenance, we’ve you covered.
Ph Ph 09 09 298298 1944 | 0800 1944 | 0800500 500633 633| |admin@bwhenderson.co.nz admin@bwhenderson.co.nz
www.bwhenderson.co.nz www.bwhenderson.co.nz
ELECTRICIANS
DETAILING
drainlayers
Registered Master Drainlayer
Whether it’s a quick fix or a full rewiring, we’ve got you covered!
Residential Commercial Subdivision drainage valleydrainlaying@xtra.co.nz www.valleydrainlaying.co.nz
Fast, Friendly & Affordable Service
021 950 706
nextgenelectrical.co.nz ELECTRICIANS
20+ years experience
09 239 0088 (Office) 021 249 1395 (Geoff)
info@coppertop.co.nz
www.coppertop.co.nz GARDEN SHEDS
Trellis & planter boxes made to order 66 John St, Puke sales@windsorgardensheds.co.nz www.windsorgardensheds.co.nz
PH 0212897522
FUNERALS
Residential & Commercial Fault Finding & Repairs Residential & Commercial Lighting Installation Switchboard Upgrades Emergency Call-Outs
Ph 09 238 3485 Mob 0272 750 028
Providing professional and reliable plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting services throughout Franklin and beyond. Bathroom renovations
25 + years experience Farm races and drainage, house and shed sites, horse arenas, subdivisions, landscaping, swimming pools, driveways, ponds, tree removal. DIGGERS 5 TON – 20 TON TIP TRUCK AND TRAILERS CALL WARREN FOR A FREE QUOTE! 027 443 4778 - (09) 238 5567 Email: warren.arnet@xtra.co.nz Web: www.warrenarnet.co.nz Facebook: @warrenarnetltd
Residential
Commercial
Underground Mains Reno’s Alarms
New Builds CCTV Heat Pumps
Dan Swithenbank
027 336 6363 danthesparky.co.nz
FURNITURE WANTED TO BUY
REGISTERED ELECTRICIAN & INSPECTOR Power & Lighting Stoves & Ovens Hot Water ater Cylinders Fault Finding Pre-wiring 027 291 0460 09 298 5128
tab.electrical @hotmail.com
FENCING
We buy estate lots and houselots of furniture. Also ask about our comprehensive clearout packages. We are kiwi owned with 35years experience. Please Contact Bruce: Phone: 09 532 9204 Mobile: 027 479 8942
Retail Shop: Transit Traders Ltd 10 Gordon Road, Ōtāhuhu, Auckland www.transitraders.co.nz
TRANSPORT
Proudly serving Franklin Farms, Rural, Residential, Commercial & Industrial No job too big or small 24/7 emergency breakdowns
franklin@kinetic-electric.co.nz
09 238 9591
027 848 3202
office@farmforcelimited.co.nz
Airport Transfers + City & Cruise Ship Charters
SAY YOU “SAW IT IN THE TIMES”
76 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
FLOORING
FENCING
Family business for more than 35 years
HANDY MAN
Keith, Cody & Sandie Ralph
LAMINATE AND MORE • Wholesale Direct • • Free no-obligation measure & quote • In home sample service
Freephone: 0508 CIFLOOR | 0508 2435667
Fencing Retaining Decks Post holes Dingo k9-3 mini digger Specialists in limited access sites
Ph Dean 021 278 8087 absolutefencing.co.nz
GARDENING
PAINTERS Whatever the job – we can get it done to your satisfaction!
• Tree Trimming • Tree Removal • Stump Grinding • Hedge Trimming
Ph 09 537 8595 021 537 171
• Storm Damage • Land Clearing • Chipping & Mulching • Mulch Supply
|
GARDENING
info@dstrees.co.nz www.dstrees.co.nz HANDY MAN
NEED HELP AROUND THE HOUSE? SMALL TREES AND HEDGES CUT GENERAL HOME TIDY UP
Phone Chris
027 236 3350 www.smalltreesandhedges.co.nz PUKEKOHE TUAKAU POKENO WAIUKU
HANDY HANDYMAN A DY D MAN //BUILDER BUILDER
Handyman services Small builds Decks Bathrooms General house repairs Find us on NoCowboys
0221810729
HEALTHCARE
HOME
IMPROVEMENTS
Interior Painting Exterior Painting Roof Painting Plastering & Repairs Quality Professional Workmanship Call now for a FREE quote Ph: 021 029 16481
REPOINTING, RECOATING, REPAIRS & LEAKS WATERBLASTING (softwash) MOSS & LICHEN TREATMENT
ARRAN BYRNE
027 458 7933
lj.Byrne@hotmail.com
ROOF RESTORATION - ALL TYPES
admin@elitepaintersltd.com
TREE TRIMMING
PETS
Troublesome trees? Hedges to tame? Stumps to grind?
GARDEN SHEDS CHICKEN COOPS ANIMAL SHELTERS CUSTOM BUILDS
Tree Removal Chipping & Mulching Hedge Trimming Storm Damage Land Clearing Tree Pruning Stump Grinding Mulch Supply
51 BELGIUM STREET WAIUKU 2123
nztreesmiths@icloud.com www.treesmiths.co.nz
WWW.SHEDHOTSHEDS.CO.NZ
022 057 0609
027 777 5584
PAINTERS
“QUALITY HEALTHCARE SINCE 1889"
Your Local Independent Distributor SOUTH AUCKLAND FRANKLIN * WAIKATO NORTH FOR PERSONAL ATTENTION
heatherpeterson637@gmail.com Mobile : 021 091 04711
HOUSE WASHING
Member of Master Painters NZ for 25 years
RHYS CADNESS PH: 027 474 9726 cadnesspainters@outlook.com www.cadnesspainters.co.nz
Mainly Decorating Ltd
Roof washing House washing
Interior/ Exterior Painting, Wallpapering Airless Spraying, Domestic and Commercial
Gutter cleaning Driveway cleaning Pest and insect control Moss and mould treatment Commercial building washing
0800 101 216 www.washrite.co.nz
Dave Bates PH: 027 448 5739 Email: dave@mainlydecorating.co.nz Guaranteed: Honest Workmanship
SAY YOU “SAW IT IN THE TIMES” PETS
PAVERS PAVING CONTRACTORS LTD
AIR-DRIED DOG TREATS 100% Natural & Affordable NZ made - No nasties, just treats your dog will love!
dogtreat.co.nz
dogtreatnz@gmail.com
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Personalized & Professional Workmanship GUARANTEED! FREE no obligation consultation & quotes Cobblestone driveways Patios Pathways Keystone Retaining Walls Concrete Driveways, pathways & patios Bobcat, digger & truck hire Residential & Commercial
YOUR LIFESTYLE PROPERTY EXPERT
PAUL VOORBURG Looking to buy or sell? Call me today
Paul Voorburg | 021 029 05733 paul.voorburg@bayleys.co.nz
BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, PUKEKOHE, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008
A LT O G E T H E R B E T T E R
pavingcontractors@hotmail.com
PEST CONTROL
STORAGE
KC15943
SEWING
WALKERS PEST CONTROL LTD
AUCKLAND SEWING
Your one stop shop for all your pest control needs.
All makes, models, home and industrial
CONTACT US 027 478 9857
walkerspestcontrol.co.nz
PLUMBING
REAL ESTATE
Ph 021 739 366
RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL FARMING & INDUSTRIAL
creditcontroloncall.co.nz
www.franklintimes.co.nz | Friday, October 9, 2026 | 77
PUMPS
Why should I filter my rainwater?
A common question, rainwater is great, but what it collects along the way can be harmful.
Sewing Machine Repairs
Clean, dry self-storage units from 3m x 4m to 3m x 6m Gated access, 24/7 CCTV, open 7am–7pm daily NZ owned & locally operated
www.bombaystorage.co.nz w ww ww. ww w.bomb bays y torage.co.nz ys sales@bombays y torage.co.nz ys sales@bombaystorage.co.nz
0800 800 520
ROOFING 352 522) OO tZZ9 } q'wș OO t'q Atw tÐ ĉďīĴīș tÐ ĮÆīÐœș TďĮĮ ɪ OðÆìÐĊ tÐĉďŒă ALL ROOF TYPES, ALL REPAIRS tďďå ɪ >ďķĮÐ qðĊĴðĊæ Re mortar, Re screw, :ÐĊÐīă qīďĨÐīĴř TðĊĴÐĊĊÆÐ Moss & Lichen Removal ĴÐī ăĮĴðĊæ Roof & House Painting ZŒÐī Ǣǟ řÐīĮ 'ŘĨÐīðÐĊÆÐ General Property Maintenance qÐĊĮðďĊÐī ÌðĮÆďķĊĴ Water Blasting Over 30 years Experience ďīāĉĊĮìðĨ æķīĊĴÐÐÌ
SALES SERVICE WANTED W WA NTED TO BUY TRADES SERVICING MACHINE AND OVERLOCKERS
P 09 238 5369 M- 027 590 86966 P-
a aucklandsewing@gmail.com g g m
STORAGE
Affordable, Secure and Flexible Easy access between the Papakura and Drury motorway ramps
Storage Units & Outdoor Parking Options
Pensioner discount
021 635 486
PH 09 237 0050 40 Crosbie Rd, Pukekohe aqualectrix.co.nz
Workmanship guaranteed q>ZU' }ZU
PHONE TONY ǟǡǦ ǡǤǢ ǟǠǡǡ
027 253 0122
ROOFING Green Plumbing & Heating Leading Plumbers and Gas Fitters in South Auckland area
Classic Roo�ing Solutions
Plumbing and Gas fitting experts Hot water cylinder repairs or replacement Central heating service Commercial & Residential
• New COLORSTEEL® roofs and re-roo�ing – houses and barns • Senior discount
022 091 8046
greg@greenplumbingheating.co.nz
greenplumbingheating.co.nz
Toilet replacements and repairs Hot water cylinder replacements and repairs Bathroom, kitchen and laundry -renovations Water filter installation & servicing Blocked drains, sinks & toilets Commercial, residential & maintenance work 24/7 emergency service
HYDROLINK.CO.NZ
INFO@HYDROLINK.CO.NZ
022 526 4758
ROOFING FOR OVER 45 YEARS
experience m. 027 232 8287 p. 09 232 8287
enquiries@oosl.co.nz /www.outofspace.co.nz
0508 477 223
Need Extra Storage Space?
We specialise in: Rebedding Repainting Repointing Moss/Lichen Treatments Gutter Cleans Tile Replacements Leak Repairs & MORE CONTACT OUR FRIENDLY TEAM FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE Shaun Maxwell 027 363 6046 or Office 027 733 6228 maxwellroofrepairs@outlook.com
Your Storage Solution!
Customers often tell us we offer some of the best storage rates in Auckland Competitive pricing Secure storage units Viewing by appointment only
All sizes and prices can be found on our website We are usually fully occupied, but currently have a limited number of smaller units available. Get in touch before they're gone!
Sue@easystore.co.nz
021 721 560
SPOUTING
APEX SPOUTING Team of very experienced contractors & we restore all f fs kinds of roofs
Decramastic Concrete Tile Super six roofs f fs Iron Roof Contact Lance on 027 534 0018 info@kingkoleroofrestoration.co.nz
Quality Craftsmanship and Exceptional Service Fascia Renovations Spouting Maintenance Downpipes New Builds
021 0285 2441 apexspouting.co.nz
78 | Friday, October 9, 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
SAY YOU “SAW IT IN THE TIMES” SCHOOL ENROLMENT
PROMOTIONAL
ARDMORE SCHOOL ENROLMENT 2027 The board invites applications from parents who wish to enrol their children at Ardmore School for 2027. Enrolment at the school is governed by an enrolment scheme, details of which are available from om the school of office or w website. ebsite. The Board of Trustees has determined that some places may be available for out of zone new entrant students starting school in 2027. Limited places may be available ailable in the Years Years 1 - 8. Y
SURVEYORS
Land Surveying, Town Planning and Engineering Specialists •
Land Subdivision
•
Urban & Rural Development
•
Property & Title Investigation
•
Resource Consent Applications
•
Farm Plans & Drone Surveys
•
Building Set-out
Ph (09) 238 6369
www.madsen-lawrie.co.nz
The exact number of places will depend on the number of applications received from students who live within the school’s home zone. Siblings of current out of zone students must apply for enrolment through the ballot system. If you live in the home zone and have not yet signalled your intention to enrol your child, please contact the school immediately to assist us to plan appropriately. Where the number of out of zone applications exceeds the number of places available, students will be selected by ballot. Applications close Wednesday 14 October 2026. An online application form is available on our website www.ardmore.school.nz . If a ballot is required it will be held Wednesday 21 October, ober, 2026. ober
PHOTOGRAPHY REAL ESTATE
WANTED
PRIVATE PRIV PRIVA ATE A TE SALE
STANDING GRASS WANTED
3 Bedroom house 2,679sqm section Sea views Located at Miranda Price $750,000 Contact Nick 021507884 or Lisa 0277869778
Top $$$ paid for quality grass Bale split options possible Karaka and surrounding areas min 5 acres
Ph: 021 154 2311 PROMOTIONAL
BRANDED S UNIFORMS
WIN
WIN!
CHRISTMAS Photoshoot Minis Christmas and everyday family photos in one 20min session
Nov 7-8 & 14-15 $225
0800 784 785 promofactory.co.nz
Commencing at 7.00 pm.
Scan to book
Subscribe for FREE daily news, events and offers
www.accentphotography.co.nz/xmas26
franklintimes.co.nz
FINDSUDOKU A HUGE RANGE OF LOCAL BUSINESSES, TRADES AND SERVICES Kathy Chase. Photo supplied
PAPAKURA COMMUNITY PATROL 2026 AGM Notice is hereby given that The Annual General Meeting of the Papakura Community Patrol is to be held on Monday 12th October 2026 at Fountains Funerals & Monuments, 35 Wood Street, Papakura.
3 digital files included
Quality Workwear
Polos Hoodies Jackets & Vests Headwear & more Min order 5 units
PUBLIC NOTICES
franklintimes.co.nz/classifieds
PUBLIC NOTICES FAIR & GARAGE SALE 8am-10.30am Sat Oct 10 Cakes, jams, plants, books, BBQ, toys, furniture, Op Shop. Pukekohe Anglican Church, cnr Queen St & Wesley St Eft ft f pos Cash only, no Eftpos
Scan the QR code to subscribe instantly! or visit franklintimes.co.nz/ subscribe
Scan me
SAY YOU “SAW IT IN THE TIMES”
Y COMMUNIT D R NOTICEBOA The Runway Gala 2026 The Franklin community is invited to an evening of fashion, music, entertainment and fundraising in support of local young people and families navigating ADHD and neurodiversity. Hosted by The Runway Foundation, the gala will celebrate the strengths, creativity and potential of neurodiverse young people. The evening will feature a fashion show by designer Mima Sinclair, a special performance by Nikau Grace, and entertainment from Petra Bagust, Kenah and Fergus from Small Rave, and other guests. Community displays, interactive experiences, live and silent auctions, raffles and inspiring stories from young people and families will also feature. Funds raised will support the foundation’s mentoring, Kids Club, parent support, education, advocacy and community connection programmes for tamariki, rangatahi and whānau. The gala will be held on Saturday, October 10, from 5pm to 9pm at the Pukekohe Netball Centre, 1 Beresford Street, Pukekohe.
Papakura Art Group The Papakura Art Group is a relaxed and friendly group of people who enjoy creating together and share all manner of visual arts. Members provide “popup” tuition on the first Wednesday of the month for people who want to join in, and on the third Wednesday of the month, invited professional guest artists
provide workshops or artists’ talks, with an afternoon tea for socialising after the workshops. These start at 1pm and finish at 3.15pm. New members are always warmly welcomed and given willing help if needed. The art group’s 2026 annual competition will be held on October 14 at the Elizabeth Campbell Hall on Chapel Street, Papakura, and is open to the public from 1.30pm, with voting for people’s choice until 2pm.
Twilight Social Doubles Tennis Starting Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 7pm to 8.30pm, Pukekohe Tennis will host an eight-week twilight social doubles competition on Wednesday evenings. The competition follows Business House rules, with teams of four, and everyone is welcome. Team entries are now being accepted, and organisers will try to find a team for anyone who does not have one. Entry costs $80 per person, with club members receiving a $20 discount. To enter or find out more, contact Cherie on 027 459 6075 or email cherie.arnet@ricecraig.co.nz.
Wanted to buy collectables Bric a Brac Downsizing? Wanting to sell inherited lots? Cleaning out or moving? I buy anything collectable, fine china, ornaments, stamps, postcards, old toys, small furniture items, old kitchenware, Bric a Brac. Anything collectable what have you. Travel to view. Cash paid contact John 021966674
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.
Find a huge range of LOCAL businesses, trades & services
www.franklintimes.co.nz/classifieds
COMMUNITY SERVICES 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
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 9946 • 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 111 • Fire 111 • Police 111 Non emergency: 105 • Franklin Local Board 09 237 1317 • Civil Defense 0800 22 22 00
TRANSPORT:
• Auckland Transport 0800 10 30 80 • AT – HOP 09 366 4467 • Go Bus Transport 09 257 7688 • Train Services 09 366 6400
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 Health 09 377 3107 • Flooding – Emergency 111 – Road flooding 09 969 9800 – Flooding caused by burst water main 09 442 2222 • Water Supply and Wastewater 09 442 2222
ed Ag
Ca
Ryman Village
ge s
6 202 re &
tV R e t i re m e n
Open Days 9 & 10 October, 10am – 2pm If you’ve been wondering what it feels like when everything’s taken care of, now’s your chance to find out.
RSVPs welcome. Find out more at ryman.co.nz or 0800 000 290 5 Lisle Farm Drive, Pukekohe
ill a