Rural Living - December 23 / January 24

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December 23/January 2024

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GREEN CHRISTMAS GOOD SPORT:

ON CROSS RUNS!

COASTGUARD:

NAUTICAL

BY NATURE

FESTIVE FEASTS:

TALKING TURKEY

December23/January24

Christmas Lights – Trains at Night Now – December 22, 6-11pm, Glenbrook Vintage Railway, Glenbrook Station Road, Glenbrook Fast becoming a Christmas fixture locally, this event (sponsored by Counties Energy) sees steam and electricity work together to power a genuine festive treat. In addition to train rides, people can expect visits from Santa, a Christmas market and more. Details via www.gvr.org.nz.

The Wonder of Small Things Now – February 17, opening times vary, Franklin Arts Centre, 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe Expect big things from this exhibition and we won’t be let down! Featuring six artists, including Waiuku’s Jane ‘the bug lady’ Thorne (who has featured in Rural Living previously), this talented team seeks to depict wondrous things that are so often, quite literally, overlooked.

Hoedown at the Ranch December 15, 6.30-9.30pm, Waiuku Cosmopolitan Club, Victoria Avenue, Waiuku Proof that it really can be hip to be square when dancing, this rooting-tooting western-themed event is expected to prove that southwest Auckland can be rather wild too! More information about this knees-up shindig is available online at www.waiukucossie.co.nz.

Pukekohe Gypsy Fair December 16-17, 9am-5pm, Pukekohe Intermediate School, Queen Street, Pukekohe Good fortunes are foretold of this event. Exactly what’s on the cards can never been certain but visitors can expect this fair to deliver when it comes to stalls, offering everything from food to crafts, as well as entertainment and more. For details search ‘the Gypsy Fair’ on Facebook.

2 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

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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.

Handel Messiah December 17-18, Auckland Town Hall, Queen Street, Auckland City Originally performed to mark Easter, this uplifting work celebrating hope and rebirth has become a Christmas classic. Presented by Auckland Choral’s singers, Handel’s Messiah is again expected to prove the perfect preChristmas present. Details at www.aucklandchoral.com.

Boxing Day & New Year’s Day at the Races December 26 & January 1, from 11am, Pukekohe Park, Manukau Road, Pukekohe Jockeys will need to box clever should they expect cross the line as winners, and pop a few corks accordingly, during these hotly contested summer races. For a full schedule including races at Pukekohe Park and Ellerslie Racecourse visit www.aucklandracing.co.nz.

New Year’s Eve at the Races December 31, Alexandra Park, Cnr Greenlane West & Manukau Road, Epsom Including the iconic Franklin Cup, this event is liable to see local harness racing enthusiasts not being too ‘sulky’ about taking a jaunt up the motorway to Alexandra Park. Come New Year’s Eve, there will be many reasons to celebrate. See www.alexandrapark.co.nz for details.

Franklin Fuchsia Group 25th Anniversary Show January 19-20, Waiuku Civic Centre, King Street, Waiuku It’s a case of back to the fuchsias in Waiuku as the Franklin Fuchsia Group celebrates its silver jubilee. Featuring a royal gala fuchsia display, this very special edition of the group’s annual show sees these perennials (which bloom annually, depending on climate) in fine form. For more information visit www.waiukutown.co.nz.

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Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 3

from the

THAT WAS THE EDITOR YEAR THAT WAS… like to park blame for the state of our world on the previous government, the boomers, the scientists (who actually did warn us!), the media or even Eli Whitney and is damned cotton gin, all because ‘blame, ignore and repeat’ is easy. Doing something (even ‘doing this’?) is much harder.

Speaking of doing ‘this’, producing a monthly publication right in step with an (almost) instantaneous news cycle isn’t our goal, but focusing on the stories about interesting locals is. In 2023 alone, we featured charity organisers, sportspeople, artists and (of course!) lifestyle farmers. While we can’t be as on the ball as newspapers, (in some ways) our best material doesn’t date. This means readers can always take a look back at our 2023 e-editions (via ruralliving.co.nz) just in case they missed anything the first time around. We can also often provide more well-rounded content.

COVERSHOT

Getting around to our final issue for 2023, we posed questions to a seafarer, Dean Lawrence (Coastguard Waiuku), and champion runner, Ramarama’s Lisa Cross. We’ve also included a dose of seasonal cheer and fare (from recipes to competitions, Christmas gift ideas and more) all stuffed into one handy ‘stocking’.

So, until next year, from a reporter who’s ‘baffled, trumped, tethered, cropped’ (in the words of REM), I’ll wish you a regretless Christmas and an optimistic New Year. Let’s hope we can see you at the beginning of a new world as we don’t yet know it, one not quite so ‘eventful’, and all feel fine.

Jon Rawlinson, editor

A TIMES MEDIA PUBLICATION

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CHECKING IT TWICE: Even if we make a list, there’s no way we can cover all the nicest local festive celebrations!

However, as we weren’t too naughty (not near naughty enough to earn the ire of our thin blue line!), we were able to attend a couple of Christmas classics recently, the Clevedon Christmas Fair and Pukekohe’s Christmas on the Green (pictured). To view more photos see pages 28-29.

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Editor: Jon Rawlinson DDI 09 271 8036 editor@ruralliving.co.nz

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hat’s great, it starts with an earthquake, birds and snakes and aeroplanes, and Lenny Bruce is not afraid…’.

This past year hasn’t seen an end of the world as we know it and I still feel fine enough, but not for the same reasons as others might.

In future, we may look back on 2023 as a ‘post trauma’ type of year, with the pandemic receding despite an ‘uptick’ towards the end. We may have squashed the curve, then ignored it, but it still has not been eliminated.

It was also the year we really began to pay the piper and his services have not come cheap. What’s more, issues set on the back burner somewhat (from housing to climate change) as we grappled with a great plague continued to boil over.

With a new government at the helm, I’d like to think we’re headed for calmer seas… I’d like to. I’d also

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4 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

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Merry Christmas!

Thank you for your support Franklin!

Wishing you well over the holiday season!

Luke Jupp

021 160 8005

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Jason Tabrum 022 567 9662

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 5 KC7906-v10

Win! g.co.nz to enter Visit www.rurallivin d be in to win. our prize draws an n/email address; One entry per perso y 25, 2024. entries close Januar phone or email.

Winners notified by

NZ POLO OPEN DOUBLE PASS A BROOKLYN KETTLE

What better way to celebrate the New Year than with a nice cuppa?

In addition to its sleek, modern look, the Russell Hobbs Brooklyn kettle features 1.7 litre capacity – ideal when entertaining – and a quiet boil – ideal the morning after entertaining!

We have one of these beautiful kettles (valued at almost $200) up for grabs.

Kings and commoners alike have come to appreciate the right royal sport of polo. Competitors, fashionistas and spectators are again set to congregate in Clevedon for a renowned sporting showcase. We have a double pass to the 2024 NZ Polo Open (on February 18) for one lucky reader.

MURRAY BALL – A CARTOONIST’S LIFE When farming or playing rugby, it makes sense to keep one’s Foot(rot) WIN! on the Ball! Perhaps New Zealand’s SILBERHORN most well-known cartoonist, Murray Ball helped define our rural, Kiwi PET CALM sense of humour. This book (by his son, Mason) also covers Murray’s Even after the Christmas break, Kiwis flock tragic battle with Alzheimer’s, but to our highways seeking to get away from it it is a celebration of a remarkable all. While taking to the open road is all part of life including backstories the experience, pets aren’t always so enthused behind his characters and the by such adventures. Fortunately, Silberhorn’s hard yards required to delight Pet Calm can help them sit back and enjoy the generations of readers. We have ride, or even the change of scenery if staying a copy to give away. in a cattery or kennel. We have packs (each includes two bottles) of Pet Calm to Mason Ball: Murray Ball – give away to SIX lucky readers… a Cartoonist’s Life | RRP $45 | and their pets.

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Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 7 Office 09 296 9353 Steve Keller 021 737 997

Over

THE GATE

WITH

e c n e r w a Dean L IUKU) A W D R A U G T S (COA

Dean Lawrence

On a good day out on the water, all that Dean Lawrence will see is the sea.

However, when duty calls this Waiau Pa local is prepared to dive right in with his crew to save lives around a scenic (yet dangerous) stretch of our local coast. As we dive into summer, we spoke with Dean about Coastguard Waiuku’s essential lifesaving role.

Is summer your busiest time?

What are the most important aspects to consider when boating?

How useful are coastguard courses in this respect?

It is busier, but boating is not limited to summer. Be prepared, although that can be a big job.

Ensure your vessel is fit for purpose, well maintained, well equipped, and that you know

8 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

what you are doing. Be sure to check the weather, tides, plan your trip and know what to do if something goes wrong. It is not as much about what you know as what you don’t, so taking one of our courses will help fill those gaps in knowledge.

Boating should never be a case of jumping out of bed, hooking the boat on a trailer and heading out to sea.

Which areas does your team cover? Is the Manukau Heads’ bar (scene of the infamous HMS Orpheus sinking in 1863) the most dangerous spot?

We cover the Waikato River and Waikato River bar as well as the Manukau Harbour and bar and beyond it to the west coast. The Manukau bar does provide a small number of serious incidents

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each year – while few in number, they tend to be the most serious or even fatal.

How long have you served and in what roles? How often are you out on the water?

I have been volunteering for 35 years, with Waiuku for about 15.

I was also on the International Maritime Rescue Federation board in London for eight years, four as its chair, and I’ve been a national board member for nine years, three as Coastguard NZ president. Coastguard Waiuku is a small unit (24 people on average), so we tend to share the roles around. As president, I coordinate the team and interface with the national organisation. I am also still a rescue vessel master, so I’m out on the water regularly.

Have you worked in any other maritime roles?

My last fulltime job was as CEO for the Spirit of Adventure Trust (for 10 years). Running a youth development organisation and using New Zealand’s largest square rigged sailing ship was a real privilege.

Coastguard Waiuku marked 50 years of service in August. Why was it formed, how well supported by the community has it been and how effective has it proven?

The unit was formed after a double fatality. Over the years, it has been well supported by locals, which is something we really value. The celebration was as much about acknowledging this support because, without it, we would have struggled to last 50 years. In the past 10 years alone, we have clocked 20,319 hours of volunteer service, assisted in 348 incidents and returned 890 people home safely to their families.

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You still have one of the founding members on board, correct?

service in place and, as a team, we also look out for each other.

Yes. Richard Udy is still an active crew member. He was a master but recently stepped away from that role. He is a fountain of knowledge, happy to help share this with all of our members.

What skills are needed to join the coastguard?

How closely do you work with Surf Lifesaving Kariaotahi? Are rescues often coordinated?

Very closely – I’m actually a member of the club. We have coordinated rescues and won the NZ SAR (Search and Rescue) Gold Award for one such rescue, which was nominated for an international award.

How hard is it to cope with knowing you can’t save everyone?

Does the NZ Coastguard provide support?

It’s never easy, but so long as we know we did our best, then it is what it is. We work really hard to ensure people are returned to their families; it’s hardest when we cannot recover someone lost to the sea. Coastguard has a very good post-incident support

The main skill is being able to fit with the team. While we tend to attract those with boating experience, there is also a growing group with little or no nautical knowledge. However, we provide all the training needed to do the job.

If you could grow any plant or raise any animal (real or imagined), what and why?

Angus beef – great animals and very good meat!

If you could invite any three people (dead or living) to dinner, who would you ask and why?

I have been fortunate to have met many great people over the years, but one would have to be my wife, Debbie. She keeps me grounded and has always provided the support I’ve needed throughout various aspects of my life. So, as for the other two, I’ll leave it up to her!

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 9

LISA CROSS:

Cop on the run!

R

Lisa Cross

amarama local, Lisa Cross, has been hot footing it across this this nation and others for the past 18 years.

Although the renowned cross country, road and marathon runner who, at 40 years old, is still clocking up the kilometres, her focus these days is on coaching.

While she admits her competitive running days may soon be over, she isn’t quite done with competitions yet. In October, Lisa won the half marathon in Auckland and last August she competed in the National Duathlon Championships (run, bike run) where she qualified for the world duathlon event in Townsville next year.

“The half marathon win was so satisfying and though I had a great time at the duathlon, it’s not for me. My knees are starting to give out and biking on the road freaked me out,” she says. “What’s more, Townsville is a huge event

with cars and stones on the road and bikes with tiny pedals. I’d be worried about falling off! I’m a real sook on the bike; someone riding next to me would just have to say “boo” and I’d tip off.”

Looking back on a prestigious running career, it’s been quite a journey from when she first showed clever footwork in another sport at just 12 years of age.

“Soccer was still a fringe sport for women then. I played in high school and, had there been a NZ rep team, I probably would have made it. I was definitely keen, but I broke a leg (aged 15) and, later, a horse stood on my foot. After that I couldn’t kick so football was out.”

Running for fun and fitness while also riding – a talent fostered by her mother Grace Robertson, an accomplished horsewoman in her own right – Lisa then took an interest in cross country.

“I never attended after school training sessions; I just ran around our local streets. When I entered the Year 12 cross country champs I came second to our top athlete. The coach said: ‘Where the heck have you been?’. I knew then that my feet would prove important – they’ve carried me a long way since!”

Photos Wayne Martin

10 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

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Photos Wayne Martin

Unpacking an overflowing trophy box representing years of fleet-footed triumphs is almost more daunting than running a marathon cross country star, Lisa Cross, confirmed to HELEN PERRY.

Adroit in the saddle, Lisa still rides her Kaimanawa mare. She trained as a jockey but, despite her slight frame and riding five winners, maintaining weight wasn’t easy. Initially, her horse racing and policing career overlapped.

“I looked for a new career and, at 23, joined the NZ Police, an active job not tied to a desk,” she recalls. “As a preliminary test, I had to do 20 pushups and run 2.4km under 11 minutes, 15 seconds. On the official run I bettered that time by nearly three minutes. After that my colleagues called me Robocop!” she laughs.

“I was too tall to be a jockey and, in reality, too short to be a cop. When my second child was born, six years ago, I decided family came first. I left the force, with some regrets, but have none now as it’s a very different environment today.”

Lisa can thank her police PT trainer for future running success.

“She harassed me into getting a proper coach! I took her advice to focus on running. Coached by former Commonwealth Games’ middle distance runner, John Bowden, I made great strides.”

Despite later opting to be a stay-at-home mum on the lifestyle property she and her family share with her parents (her dad, Ross Robertson, is a former Labour MP), Lisa was in her prime

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and running like a champion.

Taking two years leave from policing to finish her jockey apprenticeship, she also made the grade for international events including a 10km race in Jakarta and road relays in Japan. In addition, Lisa ran the 2012 Oceania Half Marathon on the Gold Coast where, finishing third, she was named Oceania champion as the first and second placegetters weren’t registered runners. Prior to leaving the NZ Police altogether, she qualified for the 2018 World Cross Country Champs in Spain, but she says the travel costs were just too high.

“Throughout my career support from my husband, Michael, and my parents allowed me to travel abroad, especially as we often paid for everything ourselves; there was little sponsorship.”

Just as she thought to step back from international competition, Lisa qualified for the World Cross Country champs in Australia. She also entered masters and seniors races at July’s NZ Cross Country champs. “[The World Champs were] amazing. However, NZ is a minnow when it comes to these big meets, so running against the likes of the Kenyans and Ethiopians we don’t really get a look in. The aim was for team success – the first four places

from each counted. I came in fourth for our team and the team came tenth which, in the bigger picture, was awesome,” she says. “I smoked the 6km masters race and came fifth in the 10km seniors race, which I won the previous year. However, this time it was on just four hours after the masters so I was a bit done in.”

The National Duathlon Champs (August) offered a chance to try something different, as a one off, just for fun.

Local events still beckon but Lisa wants to encourage budding runners to make the most of their interest and ability. Coaching alongside James Kuegler at south Auckland’s TTT (track, trail and tarmac) Running Club, Lisa is mentoring runners of all ages and levels of ability.

“I love it and, importantly, some youngsters are showing promise that could see them compete nationally, if they maintain interest once they leave school.

I am still fit and strong, so I can run with them and help them see their potential.”

Now that her children are at school, Lisa is also looking ahead to another challenge.

“I’ve just started a sports nutrition course. Hopefully, it will lead to a new career. I wonder how much better I might have been if I ate more wisely and had known more about the effect of nutrition (good and bad) on performance,” she reveals.

“I’m keen to work with female athletes, guiding them with their diet so they perform at optimum level. Some overeat, others don’t eat enough which can lead to low bone density and stress fractures. Healthy eating is part of running success along with a programme accommodating work, family responsibilities and more. Of course, all this might mean I keep rising at 5am to train,” she grins. “But the upside is that dawn is such a lovely time of day to run.”

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 11

BIOSECURITY:

s r u o i v a s r e m m u s by pests are ’s primary producers aren’t beset Measures to ensure New Zealand confirm. r, as Biosecurity NZ’s latest efforts stepped up a gear during summe www.mpi.govt.nz.

For details regarding the below see

‘GOLDEN’ RULES A new rule is intended to prevent the spread of the infamous freshwater gold clam in the Waikato River. “[It] affects all wake boats using the stretch of the Waikato from the Whakamaru Dam down to the river mouth at Port Waikato,” Biosecurity NZ’s John Walsh says. “Wake boats that have been on this stretch must not be used in any other waterways including other parts of the Waikato.”

Craft with internal tanks or bladders that cannot be completely drained are considered to be wake boats.

“Wake boats present a higher risk of transmitting the freshwater gold clam as there is currently no known reliable method of cleaning their tanks and bladders,” Mr Walsh explains. “Biosecurity New Zealand is investigating whether a reliable cleaning method can be developed. If so, the special requirements for wake boats will be reviewed.”

BOTTOMS UP Proud mum, Mistral, with her newest biosecurity recruits

TOP DOGS Thanks to its most determined officers, Biosecurity NZ has its nose to the grindstone as the summer travel season heats up.

“New officers and handlers will play a critical part in protecting our economy and precious natural environment from potentially harmful pests and diseases,” Michael Inglis from Biosecurity NZ confirms.

Although the pups pictured with their mum won’t be on task just yet, almost two dozen new quarantine officers and four new

detector dog handlers recently joined the ranks, primarily in Auckland. In particular, exotic fruit flies and the brown marmorated stink bug are in their crosshairs.

“These potential intruders are especially active in summer and pose a direct threat to our hardworking growers and farmers, who underpin rural communities and economic wellbeing,” Mr Inglis adds. “We urge all travellers entering the country to be vigilant and follow all biosecurity instructions carefully.”

12 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

Cruise operators have been busily cleaning house and hull prior to hitting New Zealand waters during summer.

“There has been a lot of effort to alert cruise lines about their biosecurity requirements, including ensuring they comply with New Zealand’s biofouling rules,” Biosecurity NZ’s Paul Hallett confirms. “Biofouling continues to be a major biosecurity threat. We know that almost 90 per cent of the exotic marine species in New Zealand likely first arrived here as marine growth on the submerged surfaces of international vessels.”

Due to the risk to our lucrative marine industries, cruise lines must demonstrate they meet a range of biosecurity requirements, including that their ships’ hulls are clean and free of pests, in order to gain approval to voyage to New Zealand. www.ruralliving.co.nz

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VET TALK

PROVIDING IDEAL PASTURE COVER Rural Living FVS Dec23.indd 1

Grassroots thinking can make all the difference between green grass at home (with happy, healthy animals) or pasture best put out to pasture, as Dr Blair van Dyk BVSc explains.

Have you ever thought about measuring grass paddocks – the height of grass, not the entire paddock – with a ruler? If you do so, your neighbours might think you’ve lost the plot! However, if you’re the least bit worried about pasture thriving into and throughout the summer months, nothing beats getting down on your hands and knees and measuring the height of grass with a trusty old 30-centimetre ruler.

CHECKLIST  EQUINE: don’t forget to ‘slip, slop, slap and wrap’ horses, ponies and donkeys. Whitehaired areas and pink skin can be covered with zinc cream or sun powder and lightweight summer sheets can help protect our pinto pals. Just like us, horses can be a little overcooked by the summer sun so

The ideal minimum pasture lengths (in centimetres) for ewes and lambs through spring is 4-5cm, so if you’ve kept your grass above this height you’re doing well. During summer, ewes need a minimum length of 2cm and lambs 3cm. Prioritise placement for the young ones in nicer paddocks, where necessary, and rest paddocks in which grass is too short.

One of the wettest winters I’ve seen in a long time has caused even the driest paddock in the Franklin district to become a boggy disaster. Coupled with the temperate weather, we’d had bugger all grass growth at the time I wrote this. This means that nasty parasites living primarily in the last few centimetres of the sward have been surviving better than usual. I’m very worried this trend may continue. If so, we’re in for a tough summer in terms of low pasture availability and high parasite numbers.

Starvation is a massive issue

make sure there’s some shade in the paddock and plenty of water  TICKS can be quite a nuisance at time of year, with horses often affected by localised irritation and swelling where ticks attach. These areas may also be itchy, which can lead to nasty injuries caused when they attempt to scratch against something. We recommend Permoxin, tick tags and collars  FOALS: first drenches against worms are due at eight weeks,

throughout summer and it’s never nice to see an animal with an easily preventable disease. Remember that there are always solutions to low feed availability – supplementary feed and reducing stock numbers are two key ways to help rest a battered paddock and to help get that grass growing strong again.

Armed with some numbers – go ahead and raid your kid’s school supplies for a ruler! – and check in on your grass frequently to make sure it’s not too short.

and vaccines should start at twelve weeks of age. Contact your vet to discuss  CHICKENS: clean coops with insecticide every 2-4 weeks over summer and consider Exzolt, if required, to treat for red mites  PIGS: check water sources are safe. During hot weather, pigs bathe in drinking water to cool off.

Shade and mud wallows should be on offer to allow them to apply their own natural ‘sunscreen’

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Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 13

BAYLY BACK IN ‘PORT’, BACKING FARMERS

H

e may not be in the driver’s seat regarding the primary industries, but re-elected Port Waikato MP, Andrew Bayly (National), is well aware of his electorate’s ‘town and country’ nature.

“I come from a rural background.

The Bayly family has farmed since 1842 and I used to own a sheep and beef farm,” he confirmed to Rural Living.

“However, I have close connections in each of [the electorate’s] communities, whether they’re rural or urban. As Port Waikato is a large electorate, three hours from one end to the other, local issues can be quite different. For example, if I’m down in Waimai Valley and talk about Pukekohe issues, they’d say: ‘what are you talking about? I’m not interested!’”

A key component of the new government’s ‘to do’ list, the Getting Back to Farming package is intended to cut ‘red tape’ and reverse or revise legislation impacting the primary sector. New Zealand’s new Minister of Agriculture, Todd McClay, may have his work cut out for him, but Mr Bayly says he is confident his compatriot will get this job done.

“I know Todd very well and he’s been to the [Port Waikato] electorate on several occasions. We all fully realise how valuable farming is – during lockdowns, the exports from the primary sector were massive.

We understand [farmers] have been

struggling and we want to support them and ensure they continue to underpin the economy.”

Spurred by the death of ACT Party candidate, Neil Christensen, during the general election, November’s Port Waikato by-election saw candidates back on the hustings again. The result was clear cut with Mr Bayly securing a majority of almost 12,000 votes over his nearest rival, Casey Costello (NZ First). Decisions by Labour, The Greens and ACT not to field candidates may well have impacted the final tally, but the landslide win indicates National’s contender was most likely to top the boards regardless.

“In virtually all the election debates, practically all the other candidates tended to say: ‘Andrew’s going to win as electorate MP; I’m here to get a party vote.’ It’s also very expensive [to contest] a by-election, so I think [some other] parties were being pragmatic,” he adds. “I’m very grateful, it was a great outcome. If I hadn’t been as connected with, and prepared to help, constituents over the previous three-year period, I wouldn’t have seen the same result. I want to say a massive and heartfelt thank you to the voters for their faith in me.”

Mr Bayly – who is now tasked with the Commerce and Consumer Affairs,

Andrew Bayly

Small Business and Manufacturing and Statistics portfolios – held a party seat after the general election. However, he says he is proud to exchange one seat for another to, once again, represent the people of Port Waikato.

Ian Buchanan

country and lifestyle specialist Ian wishes you a safe and happy holidays.

We look forward to hearing from you in the New Year and assisting with your real estate requirements.

021 647 192 ian.buchanan@bayleys.co.nz LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

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14 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

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KNOCK ON… WOOL?

A

recent requirement for government agencies to choose woollen fibres rather than artificial fibres in buildings has met with the ‘backing’ of wool producers.

“The government’s decision is a significant boost to wool growers and the industry,” says John McWhirter from Wools of New Zealand. “Wool carpets and tiles do not cost the earth. [Their] many beneficial, natural properties make them ideal for use in public spaces and they are a very good choice for a wide range of

organisations and businesses.”

The implications could be extensive, with wool covering hospitals, schools and even housing nationwide.

However, benefits will only reach Kiwi farmers if home-grown product gains preference, Greg Smith from Bremworth contends.

“If government procurement policies allowed for imported woollen fibre building products, we would see few real benefits for New Zealand, other than a reduction in the use of plastic. It would be soul-destroying for farmers to see one imported product replaced

with another in the construction of publicly owned buildings.”

Mr Smith is calling for further clarity about the government directive.

“There are around 69,000 stateowned houses in New Zealand, around three per cent of the residential housing supply, with thousands more expected to be built over the coming years,” he adds. “Potentially, every publicly owned house could have a wool carpet flooring and a recycled carpet underlay – at the same time, wool insulation can be used under floors, in the walls and ceilings.”

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Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 15

ED

#BREAKING BITES For the most part, news cannot be served in bite-sized pieces. However, in efforts to serve readers a balanced diet of news (is there any such thing?), we’ve included the following matter-of-fact morsels to chew over.

VEGGIES: IS THE PRICE IS RIGHT?

Rewild: Corina Jordan and Lynda Topp

TOPP CATCH! A Topp Twin has her reputation on the line! Casting in her lot with NZ Fish & Game, Dame Lynda Topp has been encouraging people to take up fishing and hunting.

“All Kiwis should have a chance to get out and connect with nature and come together with whanau and friends to shake off their worries, have some fun, catch some kai and connect with what it means to be part of Aotearoa,” she says.

An angler and hunter since childhood, Lynda was the perfect

catch for organisers of the Rewild campaign, Corina Jordan from Fish & Game confirms.

“We created the Rewild to share our passion with New Zealanders and encourage them to get out in nature and enjoy the benefits nature and wild spaces provide.

By building our affinity for the wild, we can all participate in the tikanga, or practice, of protecting the incredible things that make our country so special.”

For more information visit www.rewild.fishandgame.org.nz.

An easing of vegetable prices should go down well with consumers (in more ways than one!) at Christmas. Despite this, our feasts could turn into famine, especially if the weather doesn’t play ball, John Murphy from Vegetables NZ warns.

“It’s great that we’re currently in a period where vegetable supply is good, thanks to growers planting more and weather that supported great spring growth,” he says.

“However, growers remain under enormous pressure due to increasing input costs... skilled labour shortages and a business environment that does not support expansion. If these pressures cannot be reversed, New Zealanders will not be able to enjoy fresh, healthy vegetables at reasonable prices in the future.”

CHEERS FOR THE HOLIDAY

SEASON

North to South, we have different skWrapping ills, and collecup tivethe ly weyear knowin thistyle s country better than anyone. The price find us, yoof u'll of aAs pad docyear k or thdraws e worth to of aan villend, a, we Bayleys know the bwishes uyers of to New Zealand,gratitude and everywto herour e younetwork the express fNinodrto an dha hv igeh a c h i e v e r s .

S o c o n t a c t y o u r l o c a l B a y l e y s o f f i c e f o r a n a l t o g e t h e r b e t t e r e x p e r i e n ce e. hutroeSxclients opuetrhts, w eand d i f f e r e n t s k i l l s , a n d c o l l e c t i v e l y w e k n o w t h i s c o u n t r y b e t t e r t h a n a n y o n e .

T h e p r i c customers for their unwavering support throughout this year. of a paddock or the worth of a villa, we know the buyers of New Zealand, and everywhere you find us, you'll Here’s to an Altogether Better holiday season. find our experts and high achievers. So contact your local Bayleys office for an altogether better experience.

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Lyn Penney Takanini Branch Manager | 021 194 1700 | lyn.penney@bayleys.co.nz Sharleen Buchanan Pukekohe Branch Manager | 021 404 871 | sharleen.buchanan@bayleys.co.nz Sharleen Buchanan Pukekohe Branch Manager | 021 404 871 | sharleen.buchanan@bayleys.co.nz Lyn Penney Takanini Branch Manager | 021 194 1700 | lyn.penney@bayleys.co.nz Lyn Penney Takanini Branch Manager | 021 194 1700 | lyn.penney@bayleys.co.nz KC15862-v9 Sharleen Buchanan Pukekohe Branch Manager | 021 404 871 | sharleen.buchanan@bayleys.co.nz

16 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

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DOGS GONE? Greyhound racing at Manukau Sports Bowl is set to be scrapped following a recent decision by the OtaraPapatoetoe Local Board.

As mentioned in a previous issue, the sport has been on the ropes with the south Auckland track set to be repurposed for athletics. ”This is another indication that the social license of greyhound racing has well and truly expired,” says Anna de Roo from SAFE (Save Animals from Exploitation).

“From our political leaders at the debating table, to our local communities, the sentiment of New Zealanders is clear: greyhound racing’s time is up!”

ALL THE WAY WITH TODD MCCLAY! portfolios as well as Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs. We will begin following this former Wesley College student’s efforts in greater depth in early 2024 to see if he can make the grade.

Congratulations to National’s Todd McClay, recently named Minister of Agriculture. The Rotorua MP will also be responsible for the Forestry, Hunting & Fishing and Trade

EMISSIONS TARGETS: ‘GIANT POLISHES TURD’?

with nature. That means fewer cows, a phase out of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser and more plant-based, regenerative, organic agriculture.”

However, the dairy co-op’s plans to reduce emissions intensity 30 per cent by 2030 will prove effective, Federated Farmers’ Wayne Langford retorts.

“Before the dust had even settled, Greenpeace was climbing into [Fonterra]. True environmentalists should be welcoming such strong

A Rose is not sweet on plans to reduce noxious emissions. Fonterra’s on-farm emission reduction targets involve little more than “polishing a turd”, Greenpeace Aotearoa campaigner, Christine Rose, contends.

“Fonterra’s plans are woefully insufficient. The dairy giant needs to shift to farming in a way that works

leadership from New Zealand farmers who are doing their best. Greenpeace [is] anti-farmer and anti-science, totally fixated on an impractical plan to half the herd and ban fertiliser. New Zealanders liked Greenpeace a lot more back when they stuck to saving whales. They should get back to that and stop slagging off our worldleading farmers.”

Details regarding Fonterra’s aims are accessible via www.fonterra.com.

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Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 17

Plaudits a-plenty…

SHEEPISH WOLF RINGS IN WIN Winners at the RWNZ Business Awards have set a tune for others to follow, ending 2023 on a high note.

“This year we have seen the businesses created or forced to pivot and evolve during the 2020 lockdown period really coming into their own,” Rural Women NZ (RWNZ) president, Gill Naylor, asserts. “The [RWNZ Business] Awards are a real bellwether of growth.

Their businesses support local suppliers and employ local people, which ultimately creates stronger, more resilient rural economies.”

Sophie Hurley from Honest Wolf (Hunterville, near Whanganui) claimed the Supreme Award and one of the seven category gongs given on the night. Her business produces a wide range of woollen bags.

“Honest Wolf is an excellent example of the innovation of rural enterprises,” Ms Naylor adds. “In seeking a solution to declining wool prices, Sophie and her husband, Sam, saw an opportunity to use wool to create a sustainable alternative.”

Visit www.ruralwomennz.nz more information about the awards and this year’s recipients.

Sophie & Sam

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BIRD BRAINED SCHEME ‘SCAMS’ ELECTION

A

n orange ‘mullet’ sports a new crown thanks (in part) to an odd duck.

Thousands of fraudulent votes were discarded, and measures were taken to ensure the Bird of the Century poll wasn’t unduly influenced by Englishborn satirist, John Oliver, and his ‘aggressive’ campaigning.

However, Mr Oliver’s selection, the pūteketeke (Australasian crested grebe), still landed 290,374 votes compared to the runner-up, the North Island brown kiwi, with just 12,904.

“Pūteketeke began as an outside contender but was catapulted to the top spot thanks to its unique looks, adorable parenting style, and propensity for puking,” Nicola Toki from poll organiser Forest & Bird says. “We’re not surprised these charming characteristics caught the eye of an influential bird enthusiast with a massive following.”

As mentioned in our Aug-Sep issue, the new poll was intended to mark Forest & Bird’s 100th anniversary. Interference may have influenced the result, but it also appears to have brought extra publicity to the plight of endangered birds.

For more information about the poll, and how to play our part in conserving endangered species, see www.forestandbird.org.nz.

Photos Oscar Thomas

Fiskens wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year!

295 TUAKAU RD, PUKEKOHE • 09 238 9414 Email: info@hrfisken.co.nz • www.hrfisken.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5314-v29

Just closed the Stats! (and Sundays!)

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 19

COUNTIES – THE BEAT… While racing is expected to return to Ellerslie next year following a major upgrade, the sun is far from set on racing at Pukekohe Park, as these photos from the recent Counties Cup Day show. For a full racing schedule covering racedays at Pukekohe Park and Ellerslie Racecourse visit www.aucklandracing.co.nz.

Photos courtesy of Auckland Thoroughbred Racing

20 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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www.nzb.co.nz Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 21

SUMMER TRAPPING ON LIFESTYLE BLOCKS

By Ditch Keeling, Coastal Pest Solutions

G

idday folks. They’d started playing Christmas music in all the shops long before I began writing this – where the heck has this year gone? This time last year I was writing about the need for well-placed possum control with the onset of the summer fruiting and flowering season. When I shot 46 possums on a little Alfriston block recently it proved a timely reminder of just how active these guys can be!

Possum foraging is extremely diverse during spring and early summer making it quite difficult to target a large population at once. All of last year’s young possums, newly evicted from their mums’ backs, can show up in incredibly random places as they fumble toward independence.

This means traps that can be easily moved from place to place are a musthave for lifestylers.

There is a growing range of traps available and a few show some potential. However, one that continues to impress me the most is (without a

doubt!) the Timms Possum Kill Trap.

Many will be familiar with these bright yellow plastic traps as they’ve been on the market for something like 40 years or more. There must be thousands out there, mouldering away under fruit trees or nestled among the roses, but still doing the business. At 50-60 dollars each, they’re real value for money and I’m yet to find any other kill trap as efficient and reliable.

Baiting is crucial for these traps to function as they are intended – every time I have ever had anyone less than impressed with them it’s turned out to be a baiting issue. The most common mistake (by far) is to bait the trap with a half an apple or a similar fruit as these are much too big. Their weight affects the trigger mechanism so it’s less likely that a possum will set them off. Large bait also allows, or even encourages, the animal to take a sideways bite, which changes the angle of the head as the trap goes off often resulting in a clean miss or an animal firmly captured but not killed cleanly. Rather than half apples, quarters work really well.

To set traps, push the bait onto the baiting prong, through the centre with

the skin side down, then around the S-bend so it sits flat on the top of the bend. Baited correctly, the tapering end of the apple quarter will stick out roughly 25-40mm at the entrance of the trap, which is very enticing!

Add an additional lure using scented flour sprinkled in a line (about a foot long) leading to the trap as this will always result in more captures. The kitchen pantry is probably the best place to start. To prepare your lure, mix standard flour with a small amount of concentrated cinnamon or aniseed, vanilla essence or anything else you have that smells good. All of these ingredients work well.

Peg Timms traps firmly to the ground and don’t leave them set when very young children are about. Many people ask me how safe these traps are for cats and dogs – I will always leave the final decision to the property owner, but I can honestly say that I’ve never heard of a single issue when traps are baited as prescribed above and I have no problem having them near my pets.

Until next time (and next year), happy trapping and Merry Christmas!

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2023: OF FLOODS, FOOD, FRIENDS & FURNITURE Reay Neben is the publisher of Rural Living

CIT Y L ASS

W

ow, this is the last issue for this year and what a year it has been! Just to begin with, we saw dreadful floods and a cyclone last summer so let’s hope January and February are a lot less tempestuous as we look forward in 2024.

As I reflect on the past year, I think about how so many changes have taken place, some good, some not so much and some proving a bit of a mixed bag. For example, one of my favourite spots, The Red Shed in Drury, is still up and running but long-time owners and Paul and Christina have moved on. I wish the new owners all the best as the location and the café are super. While Brian loved their lambs fry and bacon, rating it as superb, I wouldn’t know as there is no way I would cook it at home, nor would I eat it. It’s just not for me.

Along similar lines, the closing of Café Kaos in Pukekohe was such a loss to the Pukekohe community because its owners, Stuart and Elton, were really special. I first met Elton when he and his mother had a business restoring furniture in Tuakau. At the time, I was fascinated by oak furniture and I had a

lovely dining table that needed to be French polished. Along came Elton to pick it up in his (even then) old Volvo and take it back to their workshop. It was beautifully restored and took pride of place in our dining room.

A few months later, I thought I would touch up the table with a special wax I had bought. A bad decision as the first wipe took off all the French polish! It was just a small spot, but it was an eyesore. The only solution was to confess and see if there was a remedy to the problem.

The conversation did not go well – I cannot repeat what Elton said about my lack of care as it is not suited to a family publication! However, he set to work, the table was fixed and our friendship sealed.

Elton’s furniture store eventually

became the first Café Kaos, with a mixture of Stuart’s art in the back and some furniture in the front that doubled as a café. When my daughter, Emma, moved to Pukekohe, she worked for the boys in the café for a few years and says it was one of the most fun times in her life.

For me, the biggest loss during 2023 was due to the passing of our close friend, harness racing legend, Tony Dickinson. We miss him greatly.

Looking back, there have been massive changes – including those mentioned above and many more – but along with change comes opportunities and a renewed appreciation of some wonderful and unbelievable memories.

That’s it from me for the year. Merry Christmas to all and roll on 2024.

ANDREW BAYLY MP for Port Waikato Port Waikato Electorate Office 7 Wesley Street, Pukekohe • 09 238 5977 andrew@baylymp.co.nz • AndrewBaylyMP Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by Andrew Bayly, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

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Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 23

MONUMENTAL EFFORTS

YOUR LIFESTYLE PROPERTY EXPERT

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Based at our Tuakau premises, our specialist team designs, blasts and paints headstones on site before arranging installation at cemeteries throughout Franklin and beyond. We will even assist with permits required by cemeteries ensuring all requirements are met, meaning one less worry for families in mourning.

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Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 25 KC15971-v5

Around the towns ‘FAKE’ NEWS!

CHIEF’S SUSPECT: ‘CHARGES’ LAID No need to round up a posse when top cops are in town! A prolific shoplifter was riding for a fall recently, as Joe Hunter from Counties Manukau Police explains.

“Senior Constable Borrell and Detective Constable Andrews had just finished with a community event when they [received] a report of shoplifting in Pukekohe moments earlier. They were directed to the area [Manukau Road] on the backs of their horses, Chief and Ruby.”

The officers ‘hoofed it’ from Bledisloe Park towards the Pukekohe Train Station and kept the suspect, who was later arrested without further incident, in check until ‘the cavalry’ arrived.

“Police believe this alleged offending has totalled in over $71,000 worth of items,” Insp Hunter adds. “[We] are continuing to take offending against retail businesses seriously, identifying offenders and holding them to account.”

Passing dodgy dosh, splashing cash ahead of Christmas, has landed two women in hot water. Following complaints from retailers, Counties Manukau Police made a valuable discovery in a Pukekohe carpark.

“We found 41 counterfeit $50 banknotes, and five $5 counterfeit notes in the handbag of one of the offenders, as well as three counterfeit $50 banknotes in [a stolen vehicle’s] glovebox,” Inspector Joe Hunter confirms. Drugs and paraphernalia were also found.

The case serves as a timely reminder for businesses to check banknotes carefully – search ‘counterfeit money’ at www.rbnz.govt.nz for details.

Your Counties Energy Discount is out now!

It’s Christmas bonus time! This year we’re giving a total of $13.2m (including GST) to our customers.

If you were an electricity account holder in the network area from southern Papakura to Mercer on 3 November 2023, you’ll receive some festive cheer on your power bill in December or January.

The Counties Energy discount usually ranges between $50 and $220, based on electricity consumption at your property over the year.

LI CHECK ON

NE

Counties Energy is 100% consumer-owned, meaning we work on your behalf to deliver a safe, reliable and cost-effective power network.

Check the discount amount applied to your power bill now!

countiesenergy.co.nz/discount Meri Kirihimete/Merry Christmas from the team at Counties Energy Our offices close at 4pm on Thursday, 21 December. We reopen at 8am on Monday 8 January.

Our faults team are available 24/7 throughout the festive season on 0800 100 202.

No planned outages will be completed from 21 December - 8 January.

KC16022

26 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

www.ruralliving.co.nz

ON THE BOARD TALK… An environmental focus will underpin the Franklin Local Board’s efforts over the next three years, board chair Angela Fulljames confirms.

“There has been universal agreement in enhancing the environment and tackling climate action,” she says of the recently approved Franklin Board Plan. “We will be working hard to support urban and rural Franklin communities to contribute to prevention and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, reforestation and uptake of greenspace, healthy functional waterways and the pest-free Auckland initiative.”

Auckland’s local boards produce plans confirming priorities every three years. Improving transport, public amenities and recreational facilities are also on Franklin Local Board’s agenda, Ms Fulljames adds.

“The remainder of our term may well concentrate on seeking delivery on projects within those budget challenges, which will means doing things differently, looking at everything we do, and how we do it.”

The Franklin Board Plan is accessible via www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

WASTE… NOT! Auckland Council is considering halving the frequency of rubbish collection. A draft plan would see rubbish collected fortnightly rather than weekly once food scrap bins – distributed across the majority of Franklin in November – have become ‘fully established’. However, as council’s draft waste plan is still open for consultation, this move may yet be… scrapped.

FARE DEALS? Public transport users might prefer to take a hike than get on board as fares could be hiked by approximately 6.2 per cent on average. Approved by the Auckland Transport (AT) board, the move follows public feedback requesting a reduction in fares to make public transport more accessible and increase its use. Public consultation opens in February as part of discussions concerning Auckland Council’s LTP (Long Term Plan).

Original articles courtesy Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter, funded by NZ on Air

Meet Santa

Christmas

and take your own photo

in papakura write Santa a letter post into his mailbox outside the library

Gift Wrapping Station

NG THIS CHRISTMAS PI OP SH N HE W L CA LO T OR PP SU

Santa’s Grotto 209 Great South Rd Located inside Library 15 – 23 December (closed Sunday 17th)

Gold coin donation to

Papakura Volunteer Fire Brigade

Shop and Win Competition Spend $20 at any Papakura store and go into win $1000 worth of Papakura vouchers.

Shop now to 21 December*.

Papakura

will be glowing with night-time Christmas decorations

FOR DE VISIT WWW.PAPAKURA.CO.NZ

TAILS OF EVENTS

Head to our website for everything you need to know about

www.papakura.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

*T&C’s apply.

DY1068

#eatlocal #shoplocal #Lovelocal

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 27

FESTIVE FAIRS & FESTIVE FLAIR While tucking into such festive fare as turkey and ham can wait until December 25, locals have already been jingling all the way across Franklin thanks to Christmas events. As these photos (from the Clevedon Christmas Fair and Pukekohe’s Christmas on the Green) show, merriment has definitely made the top of our ‘nice’ list… twice!

28 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Photos Wayne Martin / Pukekohe Business Association

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 29

BEAUTY COUNTER

Christmas: You beaut!

It’s time to get festive as we glam up those Christmas stockings thanks to these hot new beauty buys.

KAWAKAWA MAGIC: HONEST TO GOOD LIST! Honest Skincare’s Kawakawa Skin Balm and Moisturiser Set (RRP$49.90), delivers a bundle of natural goodness to provide a rejuvenating experience. The skin balm’s healing touch and the moisturiser’s hydrating embrace make this duo a perfect self-care treat or thoughtful gift.

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS Who says we must start opening advent calendars at the beginning of December? It’s never really too late to crack open a whole host of goodies – we won’t tell! This festive range includes the premier LUSH (RRP $390), Christmas Buds bathing (RRP $254) and 12 Days of Christmas calendars (RRP $164).

JOI(CO) TO THE WORLD! JOICO has launched a range of well tested haircare seasonal gift sets just in time for the welltressed season. Whether we need some seasonal glam, TLC for damaged tresses, an extra boost for blonde hair, or added volume for bouncy locks, JOICO has Christmas gift sets to fill our wish lists. These sets are available with Duo (RRP$ 64.50) and Trio (RRP $78.50-$84.50) options as well as in especially festive, limitededition gift bags (RRP $114.50).

30 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

www.ruralliving.co.nz

GARDEN GOODIES: HEALTHY EATING:

HYDRATION STATIONS!

W

hen drinking in the summer sun we should be mindful that the sun is (effectively) drinking us in too!

Fortunately, our gardens can help us stave off the heat.

“Drinking water is very important to maintain energy, look after skin and optimise heart and muscle function,” Dr Carolyn Lister, from Plant and Food Research, advises. “But many fresh foods naturally contain lots of water too so they are important to include in our daily diet.”

Dr Lister’s primary picks include cucumbers, tomatoes, celery, lettuce, courgettes, watermelons, strawberries and avocados.

These fruits and veggies feature high water content as well as

such minerals as potassium and magnesium, useful for maintaining a healthy water and electrolyte balance.

“Consuming foods that are a good source of potassium can counteract the effects of sodium and help remove it from the body, thus maintaining good hydration,” Dr Lister explains. “Fruit and vegetables are also naturally low in sodium, which we need but not too much.”

For advice as to how to optimise water intake with food see 5aday.co.nz.

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Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 31

GREAT

OUTDOORS MOTORCYCLE ROAD TRIPS ACROSS NZ

SALT: COASTAL CONNECTIONS

DIDDLEY SQUAT 3: PIGS MIGHT FLY

With the kids in the back enquiring ‘Are we there yet?’, the journey isn’t always as good than the destination.

Fortunately, thanks to this book, we can escape such distractions when we hit that dusty trail. Featuring details (including maps, photos and more) about some of New Zealand’s best roads to ride, this book is designed to help Kiwis get away from it all.

Poetry may not be to everyone’s tastes but combine it with stunning photos showcasing New Zealand’s remarkable coastline and the result is sure to have universal appeal connecting with a wide range of readers. This inspiring (and inspired) book is a perfect fit for summer and reveals why so many Kiwis have salt in the veins.

Petrolheads may never grow tired of Jeremy Clarkson’s antics and farmers aren’t either. In his latest book, the former TV presenter discovers more about rural life including how to harvest blackberries with a vacuum cleaner, that pigs do indeed make lots of piglets and he also learns the hard way that goats can be positively psychopathic!

Terry Fitzgibbon: Salt – Coastal Connections | RRP $49.99 | White Cloud Books

Jeremy Clarkson: Diddley Squat 3 – Pigs Might Fly | RRP $42 | Michael Joseph

Kim Johnston: Motorcycle Road Trips Across NZ | RRP $44.99 | White Cloud Books

CHRISTMAS

HITS SANTA’S FIREPROOF KNICKERS

BLUE, BLUE CHRISTMAS

HOW THE GRINCH LOST CHRISTMAS

From the pen of a classic Kiwi author comes a story that could become a Christmas classic in its own right.

Although there have been many accounts of Santa’s exploits, how on earth does he avoid burning his bottom when he drops down chimneys? Deano has an interesting theory, as this lyrical yarn reveals.

Some may think that Santa swelters whenever he visits the Southern Hemisphere, but Anna Coddington knows better, as this charming story proves. Forsaking his iconic garb for more appropriate attire, complete with sunglasses, Santa is now all set for summer in this book, which is available in English and Maori editions.

One interpretation of Dr Seuss’ masterwork, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, could be about an introverted, independent chap who marches to his own drum before learning to conform. However, this sequel to one of the most well-known Christmas stories of all time shows that there’s much more to the good doctor’s iconic tale.

Deano Yipadee & Carla Martell (illustrator): Santa’s Fireproof Knickers | RRP $22.99 (hardback) | Scholastic

Anna Coddington & Story HemiMorehouse (illustrator): Blue, Blue Christmas | RRP $21 | Picture Puffin

32 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

Dr Seuss: How the Grinch Lost Christmas | RRP $29.99 | HarperCollins www.ruralliving.co.nz

e r a F s ' l l A

From tempting tipples to tasty treats, life can be ‘fare’ enough, thanks to these new (and recent) additions to shelves.

WHAT ELSE BY ‘GEORGE’?

Just when we thought George Clooney had found the perfect cuppa, the cast at Nespresso developed something… else!

Released as a special festive treat, the coffee company’s Frosted Caramel Nut and Seasonal Delight Spices blends (RRP $1.20-$1.70 per capsule) will provide an uplifting experience come Christmas morning.

‘CANE’ DO! Some may prefer humbugs (bah or otherwise!) when it comes to festive sweet treats, but Whittaker’s has a new take on a Christmas classic.

Pepper(mint)ed with minty candy cane pieces, the new 250-gram Candy Cane block is liable to be popped into more than just a stocking or two after first featuring (checked twice?) on shopping lists.

PEACHY – KEEN?

ART OF ‘GLASS’ Sometimes ‘good’ can be absolutely delicious! Despite their (somewhat) understated name, Good Cocktail Co’s new additions are no wallflowers. Now available (RRP $6.99 from supermarkets) in Berry & Lime, Chilli & Sweet Orange Salt and Ginger & Passionfruit, these garnishes are sure to be the hit of the party.

All-natural, gluten free and vegan-friendly, these beauties are especially stunning paired with the brand’s non-alcoholic cocktail mixers. www.ruralliving.co.nz

When peach growers were slammed by adverse weather, much of their fruit was so badly affected it could not be sold in supermarkets. However, Cathedral Cove proved the answer to their prayers. The result is a perfect pairing of a premium, punchy peach flavour and creamy coconut yoghurt.

Available in 500gm, recyclable glass jars, Cathedral Cove Hawkes Bay Peach is bringing a summery tang to the table that’ll really blow us away!

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 33

Brown Brothers’ festive cocktails Christmas is a fair-weather affair in New Zealand, but these recipes can ensure we feel merry and light come those (often chilly) summer day nights or even spice up New Year celebrations. For more ‘spirited’ recipes see www.brownbrothers.com.au.

MULLED WINE  1 bottle of Brown Brothers

Dolcetto & Syrah (750 ml)  3/4 cup water or orange juice  3/4 cup sugar  1 cinnamon stick  1 fresh orange  10 whole cloves

Combine the water, sugar, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer. Push the cloves into slices of orange and place in the simmering water. Continue simmering for 30 minutes, until thick and syrupy.

Pour in the Dolcetto & Syrah.

Heat until steaming but not boiling. Serve hot in mugs or jars preheated in warm water – cold jars will break.

ESPRESSO ‘MAR-TAWNY’  30ml vodka  30ml espresso  30ml coffee liqueur  30ml Brown Brothers

Australian Tawny

Pre-chill glasses in a freezer or add a scoop of ice while making these cocktails. Make a simple syrup but be sure to add a pinch of wattleseed and vanilla beans (or extract) for extra flavour.

Combine all ingredients in a shaker and shake without ice to emulsify and develop foam.

 10ml vanilla &

wattleseed syrup  3 dashes chocolate bitters

Garnish:  Coffee beans

Add ice and shake again until the outside of the tin appears frosty.

Double strain to help remove any ice shards and garnish with three coffee beans per glass.

Food pairing: This uplifting cocktail works well with sweet desserts such as tiramisu or chocolate mousse.

34 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Mixed berry meringue wreath Pavlova lovers rejoice! Thanks to this grand garland, a simple meringue recipe, merrymaking need not be quite such a chore. More Christmas classics courtesy of NZ Eggs are accessible via www.eggs.org.nz.  6 egg whites  1.5 cups white sugar  2 tsp cornflour  1 tsp white vinegar  600ml thickened cream (or

substitute with mascarpone)  125g punnet fresh raspberries  125g punnet fresh blueberries  250g fresh strawberries,

hulled and sliced Preheat oven to 120 degrees Celsius, or 100°C on fan setting. Line a large baking tray with baking paper. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add in the sugar one tablespoon at a time and beat until the sugar is dissolved after each addition. Add the cornflour and white vinegar. Beat until mixture is just combined.

Spoon mixture into a large snap-lock bag. Snip off 5cm across one corner of the bag to form a piping pouch. Pipe small mounds (approximately 50mm diameter or the size of a small cup) of the meringue mixture onto the baking paper.

However, the size of the finished meringues can be altered based on the amount piped for each one.

Bake for an hour and 15 minutes or until firm but not browned. Turn off the oven and allow the meringues cool in the oven, with the door closed, for approximately 90 minutes.

Assemble the cold meringues on a plate in a circle. Spread the whipped cream or mascarpone on their tops. Finish decorating with the fresh berries assembled on top of the cream and serve.

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 35

Ham & egg pie A freshly cooked Christmas ham may star on Christmas Day but why put all our eggs in one basket? Based on a classic recipe using a modern appliance from an iconic cook, Nici Wickes, we can make the most of ham from home rather than needing to bring home the bacon. For more recipes courtesy of NZ Eggs see www.eggs.org.nz.  1 medium onion, diced finely,

cooked in air fryer for 5 mins  2 sheets flaky pastry  200g ham or streaky bacon  5 eggs  A small handful of parsley, roughly chopped  1/2 tsp sea salt  1/4 tsp cracked black pepper Preheat an air fryer to 185 degrees Celsius. Grease a 22cm tin. Flour each

sheet of pastry and roll out until it’s a little thinner.

Add ham (or bacon) and onions into the pie base. Break in the eggs ensuring they are evenly distributed. Prick one yolk to allow for some spread and season with salt and pepper.

Brush pastry edges using a small pastry brush dipped into the raw eggs.

Cover pie with a second pastry sheet, pressing the edges to seal. Trim off any excess pastry.

36 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

Brush the pie top with a milk/egg wash and add a few slits to allow air to escape during cooking. Bake in the air fryer for 20 minutes until golden brown on top.

Remove pie from the air fryer and flip it onto an ovenproof plate, oven tray or cake tin base. Place it back in the air fryer to cook the base for a little longer – a further 10 minutes or so.

Remove the pie, flip it back over, slice and serve with chutney. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Turkey lasagne Christmas is for the birds. After we’ve gobbled down copious quantities of festive fare and Christmas spirit, we’re often left with a fridge full of leftovers – and dare we say ‘hangovers’ too? Thankfully, with this recipe we can make the most of uneaten turkey without too much brain strain.  2 tablespoons olive oil  2 onions, diced  2 celery stalks, diced  2 carrots, diced  150gm tomato paste  450gm turkey, finely chopped  800gm fresh or canned tomatoes,

diced

 2 bay leaves  2 tsp dried oregano  2 tsp dried basil  1 egg  475gm ricotta  1/2 cup parmesan, grated  4 cups mozzarella,

grated

 1 cup beef stock  1/2 cup sugar

 lasagne sheets  Salt and pepper to taste

Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onions, celery and carrots until soft.

Add salt and pepper to taste followed by half of the tomato paste and the turkey. Cook for five minutes, stirring to ensure the meat and vegetables are combined. Add the remaining tomato

paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, sugar, bay leaves, oregano and basil and bring to the boil. Lower heat and simmer for about an hour or until the sauce has thickened before removing the bay leaves.

Place lasagne pasta sheets in a

www.ruralliving.co.nz

dish of water until soft. Combine the ricotta, egg and parmesan in a bowl along with a little salt and pepper.

Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Cover the bottom of a baking dish with a quarter of the sauce and top with a layer of lasagne sheets.

Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella followed by more sauce, more lasagne sheets, ricotta mixture, lasagne sheets, sauce and a final layer of pasta. Cover with the more sauce and top with the remaining mozzarella.

Cover dish with tinfoil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for a further 15 minutes or until the cheese on top is golden brown. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 37

nd: QueenslaULG ENCE SUNSHINE IND

Everglades

Among her favourite Aussie destinations, HELEN PERRY recently returned on holiday to Noosaville. However, this time she added another Queensland gem, Hervey Bay, to her itinerary and gave it the thumbs up!

O

nce again, the Sunshine Coast lived up to its name greeting us with warm sunshine and not a shower in sight.

Flying into the airport, at Maroochydore, proved a blessing.

Husband and I were through customs in about 30 minutes although, on our return, it took a little longer to pass through security as there were numerous flights departing. Nevertheless, an easy airport experience.

After a night in Maroochydore, we headed north in our hire car (about an hour’s drive) via the coastal David Low Highway.

Unable to secure a unit in the heart of the Gympie Terrace action, we booked 11 days at Ivory Palms, a large resort close to Noosa Marina 38 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

and Tewantin, which required a little extra driving.

With three swimming pools – one heated – plus a games room and outdoor fun facilities, it was an ideal family resort. An onsite café served breakfast and dinner from Wednesdays to Sundays, which was handy and inexpensive. Although it served average fare, I most certainly appreciated the happy hour with two cocktails for just $28!

Our two-bedroom, two level apartment had good parking. It was modern and well-presented but without a sunny, north-facing patio.

A small outdoor area on the south side, with an uninviting outlook, meant this was a unit I wouldn’t opt for again. Others were better situated.

One advantage was its close

proximity to Noosa Marina where, on Mondays, patrons at a semioutdoor café were treated to entertainment by a huge gathering of local ukelele, banjo and guitar players. Playing in unison, these talented musicians provided a toetapping touch of country.

Noosaville and surrounds offered abundant dining options, some with BYO wine. We ate twice at the Tewantin RSL, an attractive club where meals were generous and drinks cheap, but my favourite meals (lunches) were served at Noosa Springs Golf & Spa Resort.

The service, environment and food were exceptional, including my Mooloolaba prawn sandwich with lemon mayo, tomato salsa, crispy lettuce, rye bread and sweet potato fries. Second time around, we opted www.ruralliving.co.nz

View from the Mantra at Hervey Bay.

for the $45 two-course lunch which included a glass of wine.

I also gave top marks to Seasons in Hastings St, Noosa Heads. It was expensive but my light lunch (three large prawn and scallop ravioli with citrus beurre blanc and roe) was just the best.

Flame Hill Winery, near Montville, was another hit. My husband and I shared a ‘solo’ ploughman’s platter – refreshing, varied and ample for two. Initially sceptical about wine from Queensland, I was pleasantly surprised so invested in a $45 bottle of very smooth shiraz. I Intended bringing home until my son accidentally opened it and we were ‘forced’ to imbibe – superb!

Despite some delicious meals, we were generally disappointed in the overall lack of innovative seafood we had encountered in past years. While prices were similar to New Zealand, Noosa’s Sunday Farmers’ Market offered inexpensive breakfast options galore and I also scored a huge bag of passionfruit, a large punnet of luscious strawberries, a bag of oranges and raspberries all for just $4 each.

My son and his partner arrived later than us so, we stayed longer than usual in Noosaville, treating ‘the kids’ to an Everglades Serenity cruise passing along the sheltered waters of the upper Noosa River. These everglades are only one of two such ecosystems in the world, the other located in Florida. Apparently, 44 per cent of Australian bird species reside in the www.ruralliving.co.nz

reserve and we saw a wide variety while marvelling at reflections and colours in the still waters.

About 20 minutes driving from Tewantin, the Habitat Everglades Eco-Camp, from where the cruise departed, was impressive. The pristine grounds offered ecocampers, powered and unpowered sites, wilderness safari tents and paperbark glamping tents for hire.

It was located along the water’s edge – with paddleboards, kayaks and wave skis plus walking trails and boat hire to keep visitors busy, as well as plenty of kangaroos hopping around too.

I recommend heading there for lunch at the contemporary, on-site Coothara Bar & Bistro and do try some of the eight artesian beers on tap from Habitat’s Micro Eco brewery.

Despite having visited the Eumundi Markets and Montville many times, we returned to both relishing refreshments at the Montville Inn where a talented singer/guitarist kept us entertained.

I could have stayed all day, but time was short so it was off to pack our bags again and head for a new favourite destination, Hervey Bay. Hervey Bay: breathtaking!

We had just three days in the beautiful coastal town of Hervey Bay, but we were impressed.

Our visit included a drive north to visit the Bundaberg Rum Distillery and also the Bundaberg Barrel, home to Bundaberg Ginger Beer and its spin-offs. At the latter

family-owned company, the visual timeline was fascinating, but we opted out of a formal tasting session and instead made our way to the nearby rum distillery for a guided tour. It was a real treat! I didn’t realise just how many different rums Bundaberg produced as well as their flavoured rum liqueurs.

Our tour price ($25 for seniors) included two free drinks each (choosing was hard!) and although I’ve never been partial to rum, I learnt a lot from this tour and regretted not buying from the premium range.

We spent the following two days relaxing at Hervey Bay, walking the length of the 880-metre pier and checking out shopping and dining along The Esplanade where there was plenty of beachfront accommodation on offer too – all very appealing.

We stayed at The Mantra at nearby Urangan, where our apartment overlooked the sea and marina. With four waterfront restaurants just beyond the hotel door and The Hervey Bay Boat Club about 350 metres away, dining was easy, especially at The Dock just across the bridge spanning the hotel’s heated pool. A tapas restaurant, its service, prices and food were excellent.

Because our Hervey Bay visit was short, we will return and include a trip to Fraser Island.

As it was, we drove to Maroochydore for one last night, dining at rustic and cosy Flume – simple Italian fare and great live music just next door to our unit.

The next morning, the road outside was closed for the Sunshine Coast Marathon but, luckily, it opened just in time to return our car and make for the airport.

Yet again, the Sunshine Coast delivered as it does regardless of the season.

Hervey Bay Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 39

Southern Thailand Photo Pakhnyushchy

TRAVEL: LONELY KNOWS WHY!

P

opular holiday destinations may be well known but, when it comes to details regarding the very best, it seems that only the Lonely really knows why!

Complied by a veteran team of travel experts, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 book includes detailed lists of its team’s top 10 countries, cities, regions and more. The ideal first step in preparing our 2024 travel itineraries, this book is out now and available online via www.lonelyplanet.com.

Central Otago

KC15972-v6

Photo RMackay

40 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Stay in the home you love.

Let’s Renovate!

Did you know that we specialize in house renovations and extensions as well as new builds?

We have successfully undertaken some special extension and renovation projects over the years.

Talk to us to find out more!

Build a home with Jennian Homes Franklin and receive a Complimentary Scullery!

Your ultimate dream is now a reality, bringing both functionality and elegance to your kitchen.

Terms and conditions do apply, but take a look to see if you qualify for this amazing

Find out more by scanning here.

Louise Court P 021 645 748 E louise.court@jennian.co.nz Jennian Homes Franklin 2 Buddle Road, Paerata Rise P 09 238 6156 E franklin@jennian.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz jennian.co.nz

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 41 KC16188

‘SPATHROOMS’ & BEYOND Nostalgia provides the basis for the New Year’s interior design directions, as Rachael Buxton explains.

Rachael Buxton

I

nterior design sees us taking a nostalgic view on the past with a modern twist/interpretation as we head into 2024. There is a focus on practicality through multiuse spaces such as ‘spathrooms’ (spa inspired bathrooms) offering the luxury of a spa at home.

Selfcare, nurturing and effortless luxury, will come together in spathrooms with stone, quartz, marble elements, mood lighting, candles, essential oils, body lotions, and fluffy bathrobes all helping to replicate a spa experience. Lacquered finishes in matt and muted tones replace the sterility of white, particularly in the bathroom.

Achieving popularity recently, the monochrome colour palette of white with a neutral accent of taupe, chocolate or black, is giving way to warmer beige tones with textural elements such as boucle fabrics. Off whites, tangerine, pale moss, mocha, salmon and blush pink tones will create a cocooning effect.

We’ll see a 1970s’ revival with a twist in 2024. Shagpile and faux fur rugs, indoor plants and furniture that’s ‘sink-in squishy’ will sit low on the ground in chunky, masculine forms. Teaming low backed sofas with ruffle edged cushions, candy cane striped wallpaper, checkerboard hard flooring and generous floor length curtains will add to this.

Highly polished chrome and nickel detailing for light fittings, furniture, door and furniture hardware will sit alongside matt and brightly polished gold looks.

Space saving design choices, such as the use of L-shaped sofas and chaise longues, and one-wall kitchens with floating shelves for visual interest, are also increasingly popular. As is shopping for vintage furniture and decorative items. Incorporating vintage pieces and curtains with colourful printed designs will accentuate the informality and comfort of our homes.

If you would like help with creating a sanctuary in your home, please give me a call. Happy decorating!

458 Karaka Road, Karaka P: 021 264 8432 E: info@interiorsetc.co.nz www.interiorsetc.co.nz Retail Store Open Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm

42 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

KC16079-v3

THE LATEST ON REAL ESTATE

SOUNDS OF GOOD CHEER!

By Chris Burger, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe

T

he Auckland residential property market took a confident step forward on the path to recovery ahead of Christmas. While growth was modest in October and November, Chris Burger it has been an encouraging sign across the price categories.

Across price bands, representing varying classes of buyers (be they first homeowners, investors, new immigrants, or discretionary upgraders), motivations have been supported by increasing confidence.

Sellers have returned to the market in strength, bringing significantly greater volumes of listings with a corresponding increase in sales for the month of 19.7 per cent year on year. Indications are that this trend will continue into 2024 with a decent level of listings being prepared for the New Year market.

November has seen strong buyer interest across open homes and activity in the auction rooms significantly more robust than earlier in the year. The clearance rate for properties listed for auction continues at over 70%, either when under the hammer or shortly afterwards. Another sign of confidence is that seven out of ten sellers are moving on to their next property project.

Lifestyle and rural properties are no exceptions. In the Franklin district the trends described above are also evident, perhaps not so vigorously as in the Auckland suburbs but definitely improving. The median price for lifestyle blocks sold over the last three months still lags behind that achieved during the same period last year.

However, as this is a national statistic, conditions and locations make each listing a different proposition. This means it’s even more important to seek expert advice about how best to extract value from this market.

Savvy buyers acknowledge that some stability in interest rates, along with current low prices, present an opportunity to take advantage of an uplift in property values over the next three to five-year period.

The new government’s policies will be anticipated with some changes promised to impact residential and rural properties. These should be positive for property owners and indicate another upside to next year’s market activity.

So, what are your plans for the next real estate year?

Whatever they are, we offer our best wishes and we’re pleased to end 2023 on a cheery note. www.ruralliving.co.nz

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 43 KC16180

LET’S GET CRACKING!

I

n the tradition of Nude Gardening Day, a new calendar is delivering an organic experience. Proceeds from this rather cheeky publication are set to support the Soil & Health Association NZ, which promotes organic and regenerative gardening practices.

“Gardening in the nude symbolises shedding the layers between us and nature. It’s a statement of authenticity and joyful, connected living,” Jenny Lux from Soil & Health NZ explains. “Every picture tells a story not just of cultivating plants but [about] our total wellbeing.”

For more information or to purchase a calendar visit www.organicnz.org.nz.

Photo: Imke Kauta

CAPITAL EFFORTS HONOURED

K

Capital Homes

FV Design and Build, Raglan

44 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024

ohimarama, Raglan and Christchurch are home to the three 2023 National House of the Year supreme winners, but at least one local crew (Karaka’s Capital Homes) was among those securing honours, the New Home $500,000-$750,000 category award.

“Every year we are blown away by the quality of work entered and this year is no different,” says David Kelly from Registered Master Builders. “As our country grows, the demand for housing and infrastructure also increases, making the competition a great opportunity to celebrate builders meeting this demand and turning the country’s vision for a great built environment into reality.”

The supreme award winners are: National Supreme House of the Year over $1 million (John Creighton Builders, Christchurch), House of the Year under $1 million (FV Design and Build, Raglan) and Renovation of the Year (Glenbuild, Auckland).

The national contest follows the Northern Regionals in which a number of local builders and homes were featured. A complete list of the 2023 national winners is accessible via www.masterbuilder.org.nz.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

YULE… CANDLE?

OUT OF EUROPE

LIGHTEN UP! You’d have to be crackers to fill Christmas party favours with anything other than a bad joke, a paper hat and a plastic trinket.

Fortunately, that’s exactly what the crafty folk at Chase and Wonder have done.

Not content to limit Christmas crackers to their usual, useless, throwaway content, this English company also includes one of their aromatic candles in each one of their luxury crackers. So, once the festivities are over, our homes can continue to be filled with a scintillating scent delivered by these most sensible offerings.

Visit www.chaseandwonder.com for more information about these crackers, as well as other festive candles available in this range.

AFTER

RENOVATIONS & EXTENSIONS We manage the whole process, making it easier & stress-free.

Talk to us today for a free consult.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

WHAT RENOVATES WITH YOU? 0800 764 846

franklin@smithandsons.co.nz

smithandsons.co.nz

0800 764 846

KC15938-v6 KC15938-v3

BEFORE

Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 45

CREATING A SERENE AMBIENCE TO TRANSFORM YOUR PROPERTY In the hustle and bustle of daily life, having a serene and peaceful home is a true blessing. Whether you’re looking to enhance your living space for personal enjoyment or preparing to sell, creating a tranquil ambience can make a significant difference. Let’s explore some tips on how to achieve a serene atmosphere on your property.

1. NATURE’S TOUCH Incorporating elements of nature into your property is a timeless way to create a serene ambience. Consider adding potted plants, creating a small garden, or introducing outdoor seating surrounded by greenery. Not only does this enhance the aesthetic appeal, but it also contributes to a calming environment.

2. THOUGHTFUL LIGHTING Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Opt for warm and soft lighting options in living spaces and bedrooms to create a cosy and tranquil atmosphere.

Additionally, strategically placed outdoor lighting can transform your garden or patio into an inviting space for relaxation.

3. CALMING COLOUR PALETTE Choose a calming colour palette for your interiors. Soft blues, greens, and neutral tones can evoke a sense of tranquillity.

Consider these colours for walls, furniture, and decor to create a cohesive and soothing visual experience throughout your home.

time to declutter and organise your living spaces. Streamline furniture arrangements and invest in smart storage solutions to keep things tidy. A well-organised home fosters a sense of peace and order.

5. COMFORTABLE OUTDOOR SPACES If you have outdoor areas, maximise their potential for relaxation. Invest in comfortable outdoor furniture, create shaded spots, and perhaps add a water feature for that extra touch of serenity.

Outdoor spaces can become tranquil retreats with the right design elements.

6. PERSONALISED TRANQUILITY Infuse your personality into the serene setting. Display meaningful artwork, incorporate personal mementos, or create a reading nook with your favourite books.

Personal touches make your home a unique and calming haven.

PUNI, 152c Aka Aka Road contribute to a serene ambience, drowning out urban noise and promoting a sense of calm.

4. DECLUTTER AND ORGANISE A clutter-free environment contributes significantly to a serene atmosphere.

Take the

PUKEKAWA, 1559b Churchill Road

7. HARMONIOUS SOUNDS Consider adding elements of sound to your property. Whether it’s a wind chime, a gentle fountain, or simply the sounds of nature, these auditory elements can

Creating a serene ambience is not just about aesthetics; it’s about fostering a peaceful and comfortable living space.

Whether you’re preparing your property for sale or looking to enhance your own living experience, these tips can help you achieve that perfect balance. And if you need a hand give Jo-Ann or Victoria a call – they are happy to help.

0800 TOWNSEND, 021 1696 056 (Jo-Ann), 021 238 7475 (Victoria) jo-ann.day-townsend@raywhite.com victoria.day@raywhite.com 46 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 www.ruralliving.co.nz Southern Corridor Realty Licensed Agent REAA 2008 www.joanndaytownsend.co.nz

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KAT6566-v2

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KC16017-v3

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:M

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Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024 — 47

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48 — Rural Living — December 2023/January 2024