Rural Living June-July 2019

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ruralliving.co.nz

June/July 2019

THOSE WERE THE FIELDAyS! PUKEKOHE GROWER – AUSTIN ON A MISSION QUILTERS NO QUITTERS

Richard Sutton RAIsIng tHe (HAnDLe)BAR

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 1

Brought to you by members of Franklin’s

Largest Rural/Lifestyle Sales Team PUKEKOHE | TUAKAU PUKEKOHE 68 King St, PO Box 147, Pukekohe | bus. 09 238 7019 | fax. 09 238 7018 | www.barfoot.co.nz/pukekohe

June/JulY n EXPOS & FESTIVALS Auckland south Home show June 21-23, 10am-5pm, Sir Woolf Fisher Arena, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau Manukau may be where the rainbow ends but it’s also where many dream home dreams first take shape. From flooring to roofing, ideas for our smallest rooms to the biggest backyards, every aspect of homes are well covered at this event featuring products, serviceproviders and so much more. So, to make yourself a home at the show. Details via excelexhibitions.co.nz. elemental AKL festival July 1-31, various locations Auckland-wide This new festival, designed around the elements of air, fire, earth and water features free and ticketed events (including such highlights as the Craft’d Wine + Spirits Festival and Tectonic Shift, a musical voyage aboard the Endeavour), Elemental AKL explores the cultures that make Auckland such a vibrant place to live. See aucklandnz.com/elementalfestival.

n DANCE the nutcracker June 29-30, times vary, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Dr, Papakura A Christmas (or mid-winter Christmas) cracker, this classic Tchaikovsky ballet will be performed by up-and-coming dancers from Howick Dance Studio. For more information, visit hawkinstheatre.co.nz.

n MUSIC, MUSICALS & THEATRE war Horse – the stage spectacular June 21 – July 14, times vary, The Civic, Cnr Queen & Wellesley Sts, Auckland City

Craig

Trudy

Brendon

021 998 605

021 898 483

027 238 6660

2 — Rural Living — June/July 2019 Moore Ashby Boyce

gABs Craft Beer and Cider Festival

June 29, ASB Showgrounds, 217 Green Lane West, Epsom Keen on a taste of the finer things in life? If so, a little GABS goes a long way!

Celebrating food and beverages (which are often shared when celebrating other occasions) this festival is likely to include something to suit everyone’s tastes. For further information, visit gabsfestival.com.

When the Great War raged, many answered their countries’ calls to arms by volunteering; others had no choice. Based on a multi award-winning movie, this stage show tells the remarkable story of a young soldier and his steadfast mount. See warhorseonstage.co.nz.

Bugsy Malone July 9-14, times vary, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Dr, Papakura The roaring twenties never roared in quite the way this musical comedy suggests.

Based on the acclaimed 1976 film of the same name (which starred Scott Baio and Jodie Foster), this stage show (presented by the Hawkins Youth Theatre Company)

Sue

Stephanie

027 527 0094

027 246 7911

McCardle Alderlieste

Hunter

Utatao

027 482 2488

reminds us of a simpler time, when gangsters threw cream pies and drove pedal-cars! See hawkinstheatre.co.nz. the new Zealand guitar Quartet July 13, OSPA Theatre, Hall Road, Onewhero Why dance to 10 guitars when four will do the trick? Presenting music from a wide range on genres, this quartet expects to off strum-thing special. See ospa.org.nz.

Legally Blonde July 13-27, times vary, Off Broadway Theatre, 41 Elliot Street, Papakura Do blondes really have more fun? If this show is anything to go by, they certainly do! Based on the hit film about a young

Hadley

Pierce

027 480 2741

Kevin

Darren www.ruralliving.co.nz Szaszy 027 497 8223 021 676 004

Lim

Community Calendar TUAKAU 22 George St, Tuakau | bus. 09 237 8310 | fax. 09 237 8331 | www.barfoot.co.nz/tuakau

woman who lays down the law and raises (herself to) the bar, this inspiring musical is sure to generate more than just a few positive verdicts from its audience.

For details, contact Papakura Theatre Company via ptc.org.nz.

nFUNDRAISERS Quota International Papakura Antique Fair July 5-7, times vary, Drury School, Young Cres, Drury Cash in the attic is never quite as useful as cash in one’s pocket.

Beginning with an opening night (from 7pm, July 5) this annual fair offers fair deals all around, especially for people with hearing and speech difficulties, whom Quota works hard to assist. The fair continues throughout the weekend (10am-4pm) with valuations (maximum three pieces each) from 10.30am-2.30pm on Sunday, July 7 only. Contact Quota Papakura (via 09 2983854 or 021334055) for details.

Divas through the Decades July 18, from 11am, Pukekohe Town Hall, Massey Avenue, Pukekohe, and July 25, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Dr, Papakura Showcasing music by some of the greatest divas of the modern age – from the 1940s on – this show reveals that the world has known plenty of women who can roar.

If powerful voices and dramatic ballads are likely to set your toes a-tapping, this concert is for you. See operatunity.co.nz.

Popstars – the ‘90s Musical June 20-22, from 7pm, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Dr, Papakura If you want (if you really, really want) to spice up your life with a healthy dose of pop music, this show could be right up your... Backstreet! Presented by ACG Strathallan – featuring performers to whom the 1990s may as well have been the 1890s! – this show tells the story of a boy-band ‘wannabe’ intent on winning aclaim and a certain girl along the way.

Details via hawkinstheatre.co.nz. sweet Charity June 21 - July 6, times vary, Clarence St Theatre, 59 Clarence St, Hamilton Hey big spender, fancy impressing a certain someone with a night at the theatre? If so, head down to Hamilton as the Hamilton Operatic Society presents a classic Broadway musical about a girl who wants to be loved. See hamiltonoperatic.co.nz.

n ARTS Cosmos Blooming June 17 – July 9, Franklin Arts Centre, 12 Massey Ave, Pukekohe From the night sky to wildlife and flowers,

Scott

Steve

027 210 8887

021 966 332

www.ruralliving.co.nz Ball McElhinney

the natural world features heavily in the work of photographer Tim AshbyPeckham, as this exhibition is set to reveal.

See facebook.com/FranklinArtsCentre. eye on nature wearable Arts Fashion show June 27, 6.30-9pm, BNZ Theatre, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau The work of some of New Zealand’s brightest sparks in wearable arts are set to be showcased during this event. School children have been busy perfecting unique costumes using recycled or organic materials and, come June 27, they are sure to amaze. See the ‘What’s Happening’ page at beautifulmanukau.org.nz. new Zealand International Film Festival July 18 - August 4, times & venues vary, Auckland City When it comes to moving pictures, this festival is the ‘reel’ deal! Featuring films – from international and home-grown talent – this year’s line-up expects to impress. For schedule, visit nziff.co.nz.

Debbie

Nicola

020 438 5958

021 247 6472

Courtney McPherson

Simon

Macrae

027 420 2540 Tuakau

n FAMILY FUN weber Bros Circus Now – June 23, Pukekohe Park, 222-250 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe Roll up, roll up to Pukekohe Park! The circus is in town with a show featuring performers ranging from acrobats to comedians and dare-devils. See weberbroscircus.co.nz.

n SPORT, FITNESS, MOTORING & RACING Lindauer Ladies Day June 20, 11am-4.30pm, Pukekohe Park, 222-250 Manukau Road, Pukekohe Dress to impress and expect to be impressed during this fashionista’s favourite event. A day of dining, wining and winning (with thoroughbred racing on track and spot prizes up for grabs) awaits. See pukekohepark.co.nz.

Murray Nick Rural Living — June/July 2019 —3 Dawson Bates Sales Manager Branch Manager

From the editor...

Myers recommended if used for lighter items, and recycled afterwards, brown paper bags were still a better option than cotton bags – confused?

For sure, making choices around plastic is not going to get easier. I still have some single use plastic bags in a drawer and I have reused some of these – I can’t see why not if they are clean and in good condition although, like other folk, I keep about half a dozen reusable cotton or hessian bags in my car boot.

Unfortunately, I sometimes forget to take them into the shop. But I am resisting the temptation to buy more. Instead, I push my trolley load of goods to the car and fill my bags there. But in the long run, I wonder if it isn’t all too little and too late?

Going back seems impossible but so does going forward.

the biggest carbon footprint because they require more resources to produce and distribute.

I can see his point and it reminds me how reliant we have become on plastic.

Now, phasing it out from multiple uses seems like a colossal task. Even more so when a recent news programme reported an American explorer, who set a new record for the deepest ever manned sea dive earlier this year, said he saw a plastic bag and candy wrappers at the bottom of the ocean.

When I read that my heart just dropped – whatever can the world do to counteract the damage plastic is doing particularly to our marine life?

I remember as a child purchasing fresh meat which the butcher wrapped in a layer of white newsprint and then a sheet of newspaper (much like fish and chips). Is it time we went back to basics?

Some supermarkets have already introduced brown paper carrier bags but the same Danish study found paper bags needed to be reused more than 40 times to offset the environmental impact (not so easy to do). On the other hand, Todd

Helen Perry, Editor

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t seems we can’t win when it comes to trying to trim our reliance on plastics.

Yes, most of us have applauded moves by supermarkets to switch from plastic shopping bags to reusable cotton bags in an attempt to reduce plastic waste especially in our waterways.

However, apparently a reusable cotton bag only works if used consistently for something like 11 plus years or more than 7000 times according to a 2018 Danish study. It seems anything less won’t offset the fact that manufacturing such bags is said to create more than 6000 times as much water pollution as that of making plastic bags.

Now, I’m guessing many readers have regularly forgotten to take their reusable bags with them when shopping and ended up buying more, never giving a thought to what happens when we decide to ‘dump’ our excess cotton bags.

I understand that the environmental director of the Washington Policy Centre, Todd Myers, has urged people not to ignore what he says are the far more damaging, but less obvious impacts of cotton and canvas bags which may have

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4 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

Design: Claire Robertson media@ruralliving.co.nz

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Even rugby’s toughest nuts feared New Zealand’s ‘Pinetree’.

And, yet, Colin Meads was just a little more yielding than the type of pine trees which can see cross country dirt bike racers come to a screaming halt – in more ways than one! Recently, Rural Living caught up with a waylaid rider, Ararimu’s Richard Sutton (pictured), to discuss the pitfalls of the risky business he loves so much. To read our interview, see pages 6-7.

Art Director: Clare McGillivray DDI 09 271 8067 clare@ruralliving.co.nz

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Then you can choose to manage the build yourself with an A1 Kit Home, or we’ll make it even easier, and handle it for you.

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Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 5 KAT5300-v2

Richard Sutton –

rough rides & tough breaks ‘Heart-stopping’ is a term often associated with sport. And yet, in some cases, that’s precisely what can occur when cross-country dirt bike racers push their skills to the limit, as JON RAWLINSON reveals.

Some may prefer to travel via the scenic route, meandering their way on and off the beaten track. However, when barrelling down country trails at such speeds sufficient to make a boy racer blush, and with nostrils full of petrol fumes, Richard Sutton doesn’t have much time to breathe in the tranquillity.

“It’s a real bug, man; it is about thrillseeking,” the accomplished cross-country dirt bike racer says. “I go down those hills in fourth gear and it’s the best feeling in the world, chasing that fear, that need for speed.”

Currently sidelined by injury, Richard (a plumber by trade) is intimately aware of the toll his sport can take on his body and how quickly the proverbial can hit the fan.

He says while mechanical issues may see riders’ hopes dashed, bikes are more easily repaired than riders.

“All my brothers [Lance, Steven, Andrew and James] raced competitively, and our sister, Rowann, competed in equestrian. We’ve all had some bad spills including when Lance broke his back, Steven suffered a head injury and James smashed a kneecap and split a kidney. As for me, I’ve injured my ribs, broken both collarbones as well my leg and my back; oh, and I fractured my humerus recently too.

“It can be a deadly sport. Your body is on the line. When you’re weaving through trees at 80-100kms per hour and you hit one, it can be very messy.”

Unsurprisingly, Richard confesses his parents do worry.

“They hate it. After visiting us all in hospital so much, they want me to stop although, to some extent, they accept that it’s what I want to do.”

The dangers of dirt bike racing hit close to home earlier this year when Waiuku College student, Nick Adams (16) died after crashing at February’s Auckland Motocross champs in Waiuku. Richard also competes in motocross but he’s primarily focused on cross-country racing.

“A 28km course [a good average length] would take around 35 minutes but, with rivers, swamps and all sorts of other 6 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

Photo Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com

terrain, times can vary quite a lot. Crosscountry is fast. Riders can reach about 130km per hour but 80km would be an average speed.

“We wear plenty of safety gear – including a chest protector, which is vital in stopping handlebars going through your chest – but, unlike in some motorsports, you obviously have no seatbelt or roll cage for a start.”

In 2017, a broken leg resulted in serious downtime, leaving the former Pukekohe High student unable to race for more than a year. He says, although physical fitness can be affected by being relegated to the sidelines, ‘match fitness’ is not.

“I actually came back stronger, it made me push myself more and I ended up winning [the 2018 Dirt Guide series]. You’ll always come back to a motorbike and know how to ride – once you’ve got it, you’ve got it. Cross-country is all about reading the ground, seeing what’s ahead of you and dealing with it at high speed.”

Richard has had unlucky breaks four times, putting the brakes on attempts to claim his first NZ Cross-country Championship crown; the latest occurred earlier this year.

“I broke my collarbone while I was racing in motocross at Pukekohe. The surgeon did a mint job, two weeks and I was sweet as. I wanted him to sign off on me going back to racing but he wouldn’t let me!”

To add injury to injury, Richard has now been ruled out of any further competition for at least another three months, leaving him unable to defend his Dirt Guide series

crown or improve on his second placing from last year at the upcoming NZ GNCC series. “I’m so disappointed; gutted. I want to race and the bike’s ready to go, so it’s hard to have to wait it out. But I will be back and aiming to win next year’s New Zealand titles.” Even with Richard out of contention, this GNCC series expects to be a hotly contested affair.

While many riders compete on higherpowered machines, Richard has tended to favour his Yamaha YZ125 (125cc), forsaking power and speed for control.

“Yamahas are just so reliable, they’re a well-built motorbike. I guess I became quite popular last year because I was racing on a ‘kid’s bike’,” he laughs. “Bigger bikes will pass me, but I’ll just get them back in the trees.”

Richard says his rural upbringing – he began riding at eight, first competing at the (relatively) ripe old age of 13 – has been beneficial to his development as a rider, with trails, in some cases, quite literally at his doorstep.

“I’m from the fifth generation of my family on this farm. Dad gave us farm bikes when we were old enough and we started on those. Some kids begin racing at five years old so I did come to [the sport] reasonably late. I guess I had some seminatural talent and experience from riding on the farm.

“Every four years we usually hold a race on our farm called the Bell-Ray Crosscountry [and] I have my own motocross track here too so I’m able to train whenever I want, that’s a huge advantage.”

While Kiwis might fly high at home, the USA’s GNCC – in which Richard’s former employee, Liam Draper, is making a name for himself – sets the standard for crosscountry racing worldwide.

“I would’ve liked to have competed in the States but it’s an age thing; I had to quit to focus on my plumbing apprenticeship when I was 16 and didn’t get back into it until I was 23,” he says.

“The level of competition in the US is huge; it’s a massive step up but Liam and some other Kiwis are going pretty well over there.” www.ruralliving.co.nz

s some bad spill “We’ve all had e his n Lance brok including whe ad suffered a he back, Steven es smashed a injury and Jam r a kidney. As fo lit sp d n a p a kneec ke d my ribs, bro me, I’ve injure y nes as well m both collarbo ck; oh, and leg and my ba humerus I fractured my recently too.”

Photo Wayne Martin

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 7

born under a

wandering star?

Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and was a lifestyle farmer for many years

COUNTRY LAD

c

ats! We all seem to love them but sometimes they don’t seem to show the kind of loyalty found in our pet dogs.

Undoubtedly, cats can be quite snooty and generally, rule the roost.

Over the past 25 years we have had two cats, (not counting our stray, Jessie). Both have been Burmese and both have had their own distinct personalities.

I have mentioned the first one on numerous occasions. He was a lovely gentle, white coloured cat and when he lay in the sun you could see off-white stripes down his back.

Unfortunately, he was at the mercy of other neighbourhood cats and received several bites of his back. These became infected and he required several trips to Town & Country Vets.

Because of his rough treatment, we purchased another dog to ward off the cats (our previous dog had died some time beforehand).

We named our new dog Zinny to fit in with our rugby-inspired, naming policy.

Our lovely cat was called, Fitzpatrick.

Anyway, as I turned into the corner at the top of our drive, the front wheel of my car just scraped the side of Fitzpatrick’s

YET AGAIN!!

sign of our cat.

The woman was very sympathetic and reached into our car to take hold of my wife’s hand. She asked if we would mind her saying a prayer in the hope of finding Billy. We were grateful for any help we could get.

We continued to drive around for about another half hour then headed home. As we entered the front door the phone was ringing and, when I answered, a voice said, “I’m holding your cat!”

We rushed to the address given – about two kilometres from our house – and there was our terrified Billy. We couldn’t believe our luck, and whatever our beliefs, we felt there had to be something in the saying, the power of prayer!

Just to conclude, I would like to point out it is worthwhile having a chip inserted into your pet so it can be easily identified if necessary. Billy also has a disc attached to his collar with our name and phone number so, hopefully, if he goes walkabouts again, he will be found and returned.

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head; he died instantly while lying in the sun.

It was a very sad occasion but we gave him a good send off in our back garden with his 10-year-old water bowl in pride of place on top of the grave.

Following a family meeting it was decided to purchase another Burmese cat, this one being steel grey in colour. He turned out to be full of mischief and was a good contender for the world rabbit hunting record!

While we lived in the country he would catch and devour at least three rabbits per week, leaving only the feet, ears and intestines. However, he ate the fur which the vet said was good for him.

Occasionally, he would go missing for hours but we weren’t worried as he always found his way home and after a meal would sleep for hours. We named him Sonny Bill for you know who!

Then disaster! For medical reasons we had to leave our country home and move into town so we could be close to hospitals and doctors and, of course, to avoid travelling one and a half hours each way to work and back.

Then another disaster. Billy went missing. After one and a half days we started to search the neighbourhood, knocking on dozens of doors to no avail.

No one had sighted him locally.

Still no luck by the third day so, we set off on one more search. Around the corner from where we are living, we noticed a couple loading a furniture van so stopped to check if there had been any

8 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

www.ruralliving.co.nz

What’s up with D. O’C...

The political winds may have been blowing a gale of late but our Minister of Agriculture, Biosecurity, Rural Communities and more, Damien O’Connor, seems to have been too busy working to be caught up in the bluster, as the recent (lack of) reports from his office suggest.

He who ‘DIRAs’, wins?

Almost a decade since Fonterra rose in the wake of deregulation, our Minister of Agriculture has confirmed amendments to legislation which will affect the activities of the dairy giant.

“The industry has changed considerably since 2001 and it is important to ensure the regulatory regime puts the sector in the best possible position,” Mr O’Connor announced. “The Government is committed to building a modern and productive economy and that means being smarter in how we work.”

The amendments affect the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act 2001 (DIRA) and the Dairy Industry Restructuring Raw Milk Regulations 2012 (Raw Milk Regulations). ”The changes will support our dairy sector to produce and export high value goods in a way that sustains the environment it relies upon,” the Minister added. “After 17 years it’s the right thing to do to make it fit for the 21st century...

I want to make sure we have a law which will work for everyone it affects.”

Budget bites?

Whether or not Budget 2019 will deliver on its promises as the ‘Wellbeing’ Budget remains to be seen but it is fair to say its authors were well-meaning.

Tackling such issues as child poverty and improving mental health care featured highly but the grassroots of New Zealand’s primary sector did receive more than just an economic trickle flowing down from the public purse.

“The primary sector is fundamental... it’s a major contributor to our economy – delivering more than $43 billion in export revenue last year,” Mr O’Connor said of a $229 million allocation during May’s Budget announcements.

“This Government wants to help get more value from the primary sector in a sustainable way that means our natural resources will be there for future generations.”

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Rabbits – dead red (zone) reckoning Although Auckland – particularly the CBD – might be home to plenty of hip-hoppers, wild rabbits are a much rarer sight. However, right in the heart of the Garden City, rabbits appear to be thriving.

“A recent survey identified an increase that requires pest control measures,” Matt Bradley, from LINZ in Christchurch says.

“We consulted with the New Zealand Veterinary Association before making the decision to release the [calicivirus K5] virus... [it] has been in use for a while by other local and regional authorities.”

Expected to curb a “significant increase in rabbit numbers” the virus will be released within areas of Christchurch’s red zone from late this month.

Although this strain of the virus has not yet been released in greater Auckland, the Super City is not immune from the delicate sound of ‘Thumper’, particularly (but not exclusively) in its rural fringes.

To read Ditch Keeling’s more visceral solution to busting our local region’s bunny bother and his thoughts on the red zone problem, see page 20.

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Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 9

Over

tHe gAte

with Young veggie grower oF the Year

Austin Singh Purewal

Named joint winner at this year’s Young Vegetable Grower of the Year competition (see our May-June issue), Austin (aged 18), from Purewal Growers, is set to take on more rising stars of the horticulture industry later this year. Recently, Rural Living spoke to this driven former Pukekohe High student... over the gate.

How did it feel to win young Vegetable Grower at Pukekohe’s PIA Centre in April?

I felt so proud to be able to win the competition in front of close friends who supported me through the industry ever since I was young and to make them feel proud too. In particular, Dad was stoked that I won.

How useful was your past experience in the competition (in 2017) to you this time around?

It was helpful in the speech section, in terms of building confidence, however, all the modules this year had different content so it wasn’t really any easier.

There were a couple of AS Wilcox & Sons competitors again this year and your co-winner, Craig Botting, was mentored by 2017 winner, Scott Wilcox. Did the company’s history of success play on your mind when competing?

Wilcox’s legacy in the competition is very strong so I honestly thought, with them having two competitors this year, I wouldn’t win. It was a very tough competition but I guess I performed well enough in the end.

Wilcox’s Andrew Hutchinson went on from winning young Vegetable Grower to also claim the young Grower and the young Horticulturalist of the year titles in 2016. Do you think you could replicate his success?

Yes, and I will certainly try my best. I am 10 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

very confident that I can [go on to win Young Grower and Young Horticulturist] and it’s my goal to become the youngest winner in the competition’s history.

How important are these competitions in encouraging young people to make a career from the primary industries?

They are very important as they show young people all the different opportunities our industry has to offer.

Overall, how many generations of your family have been involved in horticulture?

Where does Purewal Growers farm and what does the company produce?

We grow in the Buckland/Puni area. In the winter we produce brassicas, coriander, spinach, Italian parsley, parsley, kale, beetroot and pak choi, and courgettes, beans, peas kamo kamo and tomatoes in summer.

We can trace our family farming back seven generations in India. I’m part of the second generation of my family to grow in the Franklin region. My dad [Charanjit Singh] started Purewal Growers in 2004 and it’s slowly grown bigger over the years; as my brother and I grew, we were able to help out more and more.

What does your role involve?

I carry out nearly every job you could imagine on our family farm, along with my dad and brother. We all share the ‘hard yards’. But my main jobs include seed drilling, transplanting and running with the

harvesting gang, cutting fresh produce.

There’s been a lot of concern about housing overtaking prime, local growing land. Is that a concern to you? Is your family’s land likely to be developed into housing anytime soon?

It is extremely vital that we don’t let our soils be taken over by housing as our fresh pukekohe soil is so beautifully unique and productive. Our current lease blocks seem to be falling into the paths of development; however, we will try our best to stop this from happening and to ensure we carry on our history of growing in the area.

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

Cocoa beans. Who doesn’t love New Zealand-made chocolate?

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

Give our healthcare system and teachers better pay because, I believe, they are among those who contribute the most to society.

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

[American rapper] XXXTentacion – he has passed away but his music helped me through my battles with depression. Oprah Winfrey, because she is the most influential woman I know and I think I could learn a lot from her. And, my Dad, because I’m probably long overdue some good advice! www.ruralliving.co.nz

“I am very t I can [go on confident tha Grower and to win Young ’s ulturist] and it Young Hortic come the my goal to be ner in youngest win on’s the competiti history.”

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Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 11

Young Farmer –

female duo heads to final

D

uring more than half a century of competition, few women have reached New Zealand’s Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final; this year, for the first time, there will be two.

“It’s huge for the contest and it’s awesome to be [involved],” Emma Dangen (representing the Waikato/Bay of Plenty region) says. “A lot of women have put in a lot of hard work over the years so more [become] involved in agriculture. Their efforts are paying off.”

Emma (a vet who hails from Pirongia, South Waikato) will compete for top honours against six other grand finalists including North Canterbury shepherd, Georgie Lindsay.

“I entered the contest to learn and grow my skills, so it’s been an exciting few months,” she says. “Whatever else happens will be a bonus.”

Although four other women have reached the final – including Karaka’s Lisa Kendall just two years ago – none have claimed the ultimate prize.

However, when this year’s winner is decided (in Napier, July 6) the chances of the competition yielding its first ever female Young Farmer of the Year have never been higher.

Georgie Lindsay (left) and Emma Dangen.

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Vet Talk

Equine dental examinations – what to expect Dr Katie Kindleysides BVSc CertAVP Equine Dentistry Dental disease in horses was reported as early as the Romans but it wasn’t until recent times that a real focus on research into equine dentistry began. Much of this coincided with the increased availability of horse sedatives which allow a detailed visual examination of the horse’s mouth without the need for an anaesthesic.

How horses’ mouths are examined and treated has evolved massively. Before speculums (AKA gags) were commonplace, palpation of the front cheek teeth was used to judge when teeth needed rasping.

The tongue was often used to help open the mouth and assist with the feeling and rasping. We now know that forceful movement of the tongue can be damaging to the delicate structures at the back of horses’ mouths and this technique should not be used.

Speculums allow palpation of all the teeth to identify overgrowth, (even at the back of the mouth) and make placement of dental instruments for effective treatment much easier too.

When a horse has a painful mouth, it may

resent operating instruments so sedation is regularly used to relax the horse and allow safe, thorough floating.

Note that sedation can make a horse less responsive to any damage caused during floating (a problem we were not aware could exist several decades ago).

It is vital any dental practitioner working in the mouth is aware of how to spot if too much tooth has been removed and take appropriate action to prevent pain and infection resulting from accidental damage.

This is why vets performing dentistry use intra-oral lighting, dental mirrors, and head restraint as it makes a visual check of the dental surfaces possible at all times.

This also allows for early dental disease to be found and treated before it becomes severe.

Horses should receive a veterinary dental examination at least annually.

Ensure this includes sedation and headrestraint, intra-oral lighting, use of mirrors and probes to visually examine the mouth thoroughly (as our dentists do at our annual check-ups), and palpation of the teeth as standard.

The exam should be treated as importantly as the floating itself so subtle disease isn’t missed at a treatable point. A record of this should also be made with a plan for future treatment.

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Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 13

Best bulls sought Farmers looking to play their part in developing ‘next gen’ genetics are being invited to join CRV Ambreed’s progeny test (PT) programme.

“The elite bulls selected to participate ultimately ensure our industry remains competitive, productive and profitable generation upon generation,” programme manager, Janine Broekhuizen, says.

“Currently, we have 374 dairy farmers participating and, each year, we have around 200 contracted herds mating progeny test bulls.”

Farmers throughout the country are required for the programme, which is designed to help them achieve their herd and business goals while ensuring a top crop of next generation dairy bulls, she adds.

“Our ultimate goal is to breed healthy and efficient cows that farmers love to milk. And, we do so by focusing on developing genetic solutions, [which] help

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“So, if you’re an innovative dairy farmer who wants to add value to future dairy genetics, I’d love to talk about having you on board in our PT programme.”

For more information about the programme, or to become involved, contact CRV Ambreed via crv4all.co.nz.

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landscapers shape up

the shape oF cows to come It’s a question which keeps farmers worldwide up at night: ‘how now (are my) brown cows?’ Fortunately, if new technology developed in the USA proves effective, they need not wonder any longer.

Thanks to HerdDogg – essentially a ‘Fitbit’ for cattle – ranchers in Oregon are already keeping tabs on their livestock however far they may roam when at home on the range.

“Everybody’s looking for the same thing, which is more information on their herd,” the product’s developer, Melissa Brandao,

says. “To manage them directly on their phones is a huge revelation.”

HerdDogg collects and transmits information regarding an animal’s health (such as weight, illness or fertility) and location to ranchers who can then track their cows in real time and intervene more quickly when problems arise, boosting herd health and productivity.

Considering farmers will need to feed a global population of more than 9 billion people by 2050, such smart solutions could prove crucial.

To read more about this remarkable invention, visit share.america.gov or herddogg.com.

The reigning Young Landscaper of the Year, Kae Combridge from Drurybased Luijtens Landscaping, says this year’s entrants will need to dig deep should they expect to claim his title come August.

“It wasn’t just a competition, it was a learning experience [involving] some of the top dogs of the industry,” he says. “I networked with some amazing people in related fields, got to know fellow peers in similar positions and had so much fun doing so.”

In addition to a range of prizes, this year’s winner will also have the chance to compete at the prestigious Young Horticulturist of the Year competition in November.

The competition will take place on August 9; more information via masterlandscapers.org.nz.

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Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 15

LIVestoCK CARe – BeAtIng tHe wInteR BIte

sausage secrets oF the master butchers – ‘tis the seasoning, devro saYs! Come Labour Weekend (which includes National Sausage Day) hot shot home cooks could well be dishing up some award-winning Kiwi-made snarlers. With entries open for this year’s Devro Great New Zealand Sausage Competition until July 26, clever cleaver-wavers (aka butchers) are already busy rustling up a recipe or two, judge, Kathy Paterson, expects.

“We are looking for a number of benchmarks, most importantly a good fat-to-meat ratio with just the right mix of herbs and spices, [and] seasoning is key,” she says. “Based on the standard of recent years, I expect to see an excess of exciting flavours, great textures and plenty

of ingenuity to boot.”

No flash in the pan, this long-running annual competition has a heaping helping of sizzle to go with its ‘steak’; last year, the competition attracted almost 500 entries, ranging from the traditional staples (such beef, pork) to creative gourmet creations.

“Overseeing the vast array of sausages, bursting full of creativity, flavour and quality ingredients makes my job as head judge such a pleasure,” Ms Paterson adds.

For more details, or to enter, visit Retail Meat new Zealand’s website – rmnz.co.nz.

Freezing meat may be a good way to preserve it for the table but keeping livestock dry is crucial to ensuring it stays fit and healthy throughout winter.

“This time of year can be challenging for farmers, with wet and muddy conditions increasing risks to the welfare of their livestock,” Ministry for Primary Industries’ Kate Littin advises.

“New Zealand’s codes of animal welfare require livestock to have access to areas free of surface water and mud, and appropriate shelter from adverse weather.”

Farmers should prepare a ‘plan B’, enabling them to move stock to drier land in case of extreme weather or prolonged wet conditions, and make sure alternatives will be suitable, Ms Littin adds.

“Owners are still responsible for the welfare of their stock while they are off-farm for winter grazing and should check on the conditions, including their access to shelter and water.”

While vets will be able to provide further advice, information is also accessible online via dairynz.co.nz.

Quad bike crush protection deemed worthwhile It’s safety first for Federated Farmers which is backing a strong recommendation by WorkSafe to install a crush protection device (CPD) on quad bikes used for work purposes.

“We support WorkSafe’s policy clarification. For some time Federated Farmers has been saying CPDs, or roll over protection as it was called, can be a very useful injury prevention option in many – but not all – farm settings,” Feds president Katie Milne says.

“There is still some debate about 16 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

CPDs, including from quad bike manufacturers, who say they are unsafe, and those who say the device itself can cause injury in some circumstances.

“But, like WorkSafe, Federated Farmers believes there is now enough evidence from credible sources to say that farmers should at least be considering Crush Protection Devices.

“Of all quad deaths about 90% are the result of asphyxiation as a result of the bike pinning the rider in a roll-over

incident. The net result of greater use of CPDs is likely to be positive,” Katie says.

Quad bikes are vital tools on farms and in many situations they are either the only, or the safest, vehicle for the job. But they can be unforgiving in the event of a mistake. Both Federated Farmers and Worksafe believe CPDs are a possible step to make those mistakes less costly.

WorkSafe is working with ACC to design targeted assistance for the purchase of CPDs. Any package is likely www.ruralliving.co.nz

Fed’ Farmers’ bank survey – how now, cash cow? has jumped, with 16% of farmers perceiving they have come under undue pressure – up five percent since our November 2018 survey. The arable and dairy sectors are feeling this particularly, with more than one in five dairy farmers citing extra strain.”

While Mr Hoggard says banks tend to support farmers through tough times, improving profits can come with an expectation that the piper will be paid.

“Banks, generally, stood by their dairy clients during [the 2014-16 downturn] and allowed them to increase debt to get through,” he adds. “It’s not a surprise that banks want that debt paid down now that dairy returns are better.”

Farming businesses may rely on banks but can they count on them? Federated Farmers’ latest banking survey shows satisfaction rates have dropped to an all-time low (since the survey was first undertaken in 2015), but plenty of its members remain content with the service they receive from their ‘money men’.

“More than 1300 of our farmer members responded to the survey we commissioned and overall satisfaction with banks has dropped over the last six months from 74% to 71%,” Andrew Hoggard from Federated Farmers confirms.

“Perceptions of pressure from banks

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18 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

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Fantastic Fieldays Yet another bustling Fieldays has come and gone from Mystery Creek with four days of activities being viewed, absorbed and now tucked away under the oilskin for another year.

More than 1000 exhibitors were spread across 1559 sites featuring the latest machinery, technology, products, services and innovations covering all facets of the country’s primary industry – many Fieldays specials are still available.

Popular, precincts included dairy, horticulture, light commercial vehicles, forestry, property, heavy equipment, tractors and fencing, outdoor apparel and rural living.

Other areas to attract crowds were the innovations centre, kitchen theatre, pantry marquee, careers and education hub, health and wellbeing hub, and the Agricultural Heritage Village. There was plenty of family entertainment too.

Rural Living photographer WAYNE MARTIN was there on opening day and as the magazine went to print, Fieldays was in full swing. The likes of the national excavator competition, the tractor pull and fencing competition and the STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® contest were being fiercely competed and applauded by appreciative onlookers.

But, whether visitors headed there to buy new machinery, learn about the industry’s latest innovations, hear from the celebrity chefs in the Kitchen Theatre, book a mole map or compete in a rural contests, there was something for most country folk and townies too. But, now, it is all done and dusted bar those still grabbing the last of the bargains.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 19

Rabbit calicivirus

– not seeing the wood For the trees?

By Ditch Keeling, Coastal Pest solutions

b

ack in March last year I wrote about the history of rabbit calicivirus in New Zealand and Environment Waikato’s plans to release a new Korean strain in this country.

Just over a year on, we are yet to see any real effect from the Korean virus and there are no immediate plans of bringing it further north.

Recently, I watched the media with interest as pest managers in the red zone at Christchurch explained rabbits were taking over that area and a release of this new virus was needed to bring it under control (see news brief page 9).

I cannot help but chuckle. The red zone’s reported rabbit problems were nothing new. What’s more, many readers will have seen similar levels of infestation locally (Brookby and Karaka folk will know what I mean).

Yes, there are tons of rabbits in the red zone, but rabbit control methods are well understood in New Zealand (or so I thought) and the problem I saw on the news actually presented a pretty straight forward control job other than the virus – go through and identify all the burrows and warrens, fumigate or destroy them and follow up with a toxin operation or systematic and quiet night shooting until they are nice

and tidy.

The original calicivirus in the 1990s provided a very short lived and low level of control, with averages around New Zealand showing a 15-25% decline. This is nowhere near the desired 80% decline needed to actually reduce rabbits’ ability to completely recover their numbers over the following 12 months.

Australia saw identical results with the new Korean strain (RHD V1 K5) and those that understand virology tell me this is exactly how these viruses work; they need to make a number of carriers immune, in order for the virus to survive.

Now, 25 years on, we still see occasional outbreaks of calicivirus in Auckland, it’s still alive and active, but you’d need to be looking pretty darn closely to see any real effect.

I realise there are very few experienced rabbit managers out there; we seem to be at a point where most of the old Rabbit Board guys have passed on and there’s no exact training programme on how to be a rabbiter.

That said, I can’t help but feel we are better than this; we have been controlling rabbits here for 100 years and are one of the few countries to have ever completely eradicated entire islands of this pest. We understand the methods, hell, we invented them.

The suggestion that this virus is needed to reduce rabbit numbers in the red zone shows a concerning lack of consultation with people ‘in the know’ and a complete lack of understanding of existing control methods.

We know that the first 80% of any given population are the easiest to remove, and this 80% constitutes control in very high numbers. I will often shoot 100 rabbits per hour; it’s not actually that difficult.

If the method being explored will remove only 25% – well below what is required – why would you go there?

Thousands of lifetimes have been spent understanding rabbits and the effective control of them.

However, it seems that as we progress into more modern ways of thinking, we are getting much worse at remembering lessons from our past, lessons we should actually be very proud of.

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PERFECT START FOR LITTLE ONES FLIT THE FANTAIL AND THE MYSTERY EGGS It takes a ‘Kat’ to capture the personality of Flit the ‘flighty’ fantail. Along with his friends (including Kiki the kaka and Keri the kiwi) Flit must exercise his sleuthing skills to unravel the mystery of the mystery eggs. Whoever could they belong to? As this fantastic fantailed tale unfolds, all will be revelled.

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MY BODY & ANIMALS – FOR KIWI BABIES Colourfully illustrated, the latest additions to the popular For Kiwi Babies series are bound to ensure little ones aren’t ‘bored’ come story time. As board books, My Body and Animals are durable and, as they are written in both English and Maori, they’re sure to delight and educate little learners.

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FOCUS POSTURE KEY TO BEATING BACK PAIN IN CHILDREN Heavy school backpacks have long been acknowledged as a culprit behind back pain in children. Poor posture in the classroom can also be an aggravation.

Students often spend long hours sitting at their desks and in front of computers, televisions, and video game consoles so teaching them to look after their backs at all times is a ‘no-brainer’ Remember, school-age children are growing almost constantly, so teaching them some good habits when sitting is a first step to alleviating back pain.

But, what is a good posture when sitting? ◆ Sit towards the rear of the seat with your upper back resting against the back of the seat and your neck aligned with your spine. ◆ Keep legs parallel, bent at a 45-degree angle, with feet flat on the floor. ◆ Ensure your computer keyboard is at the same height as your hands when arms are bent at the elbows at a 45-degree angle. ◆ If you tend to bend forward to read the screen or write on paper, you may have a vision problems – book an eye check with your optometrist.

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Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 21

We are excited to announce a dedicated home for our ‘littlest kiwi kids’!

A new centre nestled in the KLC complex devoted to babies 5 to 18 months old.

JE0984

The perfect nurturing, loving space to set off on a journey of self discovery.

Amazing Facilities

Outdoor Rural Environment

Heated Internal Pool

Educational Programmes

Open from 7.30am-5.15pm Monday-Friday | 113 Harbourside Dr, Karaka Phone 09 298 4199 | www.karakalearning.co.nz

22 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

www.ruralliving.co.nz KAT6620

SPONSORED

UNIQUE EDUCATIONAL EARLY LEARNING CENTRE EXTENDS OPERATIONS

K

araka Learning Centre offers some of the largest, natural indoor and outdoor learning spaces available for children in Auckland. The complex also includes a heated swimming pool for young children to learn vital life skills and a community centre where extra-curricular activities are available for both children and adults. These include baby sensory learning; school-aged tuition support, fitness programmes and dance classes.

With a new baby centre, children aged five months to 18 months will be catered for separately from toddlers aged 18 months to two and a half years, thereby offering greater flexibility of care.

Focused on providing outstanding care and education for children aged five months to six years, including having separate learning areas to cater for different ages and stages of development, Karaka Learning Centre is proud of its quality teaching team of dedicated educators most of whom have taught at the centre for between 7 and 20 years.

“This is why many families come back to us; they know we have experienced, passionate teams who love what they do and are proud to be setting a pathway of learning for children under six,” manager Rachel Waterson says.

“Such sound relationships are vital and make this centre extra special. As well as daily inter-active activities, a well-planned ‘school readiness’ programme means

when it’s time to move on to school, children are set to go.”

Rachel adds it is important to maintain stability and provide an environment which aligns with the aspirations of parents. “With few places such as Karaka Learning Centre available, especially in a city the size of Auckland, the additional space, the rural experience and the

Small, cosy centre for mixed ages (0-6 years) situated in the heart of Pukekohe ECE 30 hours available for 2-6 year olds WINZ subsidies available for all qualifying families

Unique Family Environment • Massive Play Area with a Big Vegetable Garden Children 0-6 years old Open 7.30am-5.30pm Monday to Friday 30 Hours Free (3 years and over)

Ph 09 238 1795

www.blossoms.co.nz Email: pukekohe@blossomseducare.co.nz KAT5457

www.ruralliving.co.nz

individual learning areas, are seen as a big advantage for children to begin their educational journey,” Rachel says.

“Many of our families have said they had no idea of just how amazing the environment and teaching teams were until they saw for themselves so we warmly invite families to come and see firsthand what we offer.”

“Those interested should call in for more information as we are filling these spaces fast”.

If you would like to visit the facilities just call (09) 298 4199, Karaka Learning Centre, 113 Harbourside Drive, Karaka (ext 8 for the manager Rachel Waterson).

Check us out on facebook or visit our website www.karakalearning.co.nz.

Come in and , see Twinkle our friendly dragon

Opening Hours 7.00am-6.00pm 29 Queen Street, Pukekohe

The secret’s out – Karaka Learning Centre, located in a wonderful rural setting, now has a dedicated baby centre for infants 5 to 18 months old!

1A & 3 Madill Street, Tuakau • Phone 09 236 8195 www.tuakauslittlestars.co.nz

KAT6612

Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 23

Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit ruralliving.co.nz and enter this month's code – RLJUL2574. One entry per person/email address; entries close July 31, 2019. Winner notified by phone or email.

wIn! nIVeA BoDY oIL-InFuseD LotIons Oils are precious ingredients in body care, known for helping protect the skin’s barrier and for soothing the skin.

The new delicately scented NIVEA Body Oil Infused Lotion range is formulated to combine natural ingredients and precious oils, including argan oil, almond oil and jojoba oil, to nourish and help transform dry skin into smooth, radiant skin. The three new, fast-absorbing NIVEA Body Oil Infused Lotions (RRP $10.99 each) include Cherry Blossom & Jojoba Oil; Rose & Argan Oil and Vanilla & Almond Oil. Thanks to NIVEA, Rural Living has a pack of all three body lotions to give away to one lucky reader – what a treat!

wIn! nutteRs sAMPLeR PACKs Success begins in the front row. Thankfully, Nutters is on hand to help couch-side fans have all the energy we’ll need up front to power our way through the Super Rugby final series and on to the World Cup. To ensure readers are in peak condition come game time, we have THREE sampler packs of these winning snacks (featuring veteran crowd favourite, Chocoholic Chomp, as well as emerging superstars, Nut ‘n’ Bean Boost and The BBQ Crew) to give away.

wIn! wHen tHe CRowD stoPs RoARIng With 52 matches for the All Blacks (including 20 internationals) under his belt, Neven MacEwan was on top of the world. But what happens when a relatively young man rapidly shifts from stardom to living a work-a-day life? In this candid and moving memoir, Neven (an All Black from 1956 to 1962) shares his experiences, from his moments of glory on field to moments of near tragedy once he retired from our national sport. Complete with a forward by renowned commentator, Keith Quinn, this book also provides sage advice to stars of the future.

Neven MacEwan: When the Crowd Stops Roaring | RRP $39.99| Wild Side Publishing

24 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

wIn! IConIC KIwIs DouBLe PAsses Kiwi stars are set to shine once again as this show hits the local stage. Proving our country’s musical heart continues to beat strong, Iconic Kiwis sees entertainers (both contemporary and from days gone by) celebrated in fine style thanks to the team at Operatunity. What’s more, we have TWO double passes to the Pukekohe show (August 22, from 11am, Pukekohe Town Hall, Massey Avenue, Pukekohe) up for grabs. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Nasty start to winter Reay Neben is the publisher of Rural Living

CITY LASS

w

ell, we had a great run with the long summer – how lucky we were! In fact, winter clothes have been the last thing on my mind but it had to come to an end sometime and for me it ended with a bang.

With the sudden change of weather came the flu... for my main caregiver; the husband, that is!

Unfortunately within two days of him getting sick, he was admitted to Middlemore Hospital with pneumonia.

Perfect! Just another wee issue we had to deal with.

Luckily, we still have the former Pukekohe daughter, Emma able care for the old parents so she was running between the hospital and me at home.

I wasn’t allowed to visit Brian in the ward as it was too contagious so he was there for six days with no wife to console him.

Then he was released from hospital but instead of coming home was sent to recuperate at a rest home for a few days.

Of course, this made me feel really guilty.

But, at last he has been allowed to come home and is on the way to recovery.

For sure, the winter did not start well for us but I have to say, after this experience, one realises it is essential to have the flu injection.

Our Waiau Pa friends who are now living

Now that winter is here, it is time to think of a winter escape to the sunshine.

in Karaka Harbourside are also learning more about suburban living.

After 30 or more years living in a lifestyle environment, the one thing we both notice is the extra time we have to fill our days after always having a long list of jobs which needed to be done.

We see our friends a lot and where they are now living is so handy to the motorway. When I am well we intend to spend this spare time exploring all the new eateries cropping up throughout the district. There are certainly some new and interesting places opening.

Now that winter is here, it is time to think of a winter escape to the sunshine.

We have been thinking a wee 10-day trip

to Rarotonga might be just the ticket. I love the laidback feeling in Raro’; it just like Fiji used to be in the old days.

I remember when Denarau, Nadi had only one hotel and a long dirt road leading to it. It was fabulous in those days but for us, Fiji’s popularity has made it just too crowded on the mainland. Raro’ will do us nicely. Reading books, lying in the sun and swimming – who really cares where it is as long as it isn’t at home. There, that’s my dream, which after the past six months, seems unbelievable.

This time next month I will be having my last chemo treatment and after that this column will be full of all the adventures we will be embarking on. Roll on next month!

Cherry Cooper EQUESTRIAN, LIFESTYLE & RURAL SALES

Buyers are waiting call me for a chat today!

KAT5291-v4

M. 021 955 141

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 25

WINTER

sparkle Libertine’s Autumn/Winter 2019 range is all about ‘Sports Luxe’ – stylish pieces which can be mixed and matched and go from daytime into the night.

Lurex striped ribs and subtle lurex sparkle have been woven into Libertine wool mix jackets and dresses – a subtle way to shine when the cold sets in.

Check out the Amadeus lined, waterproof jacket fashioned with an alluring paisley print – beaded sports stripes on the cuffs provide an added feminine touch.

Quota International of Papakura Inc. Presents the 30th Annual

Antique Fair

Divas through the

OPENING NIGHT

Friday, 5th July – 7.00pm Tickets $20 – available at the door

Decades

WEEKEND HOURS Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th July 10am-4pm Tickets $6 – available at the door

Young Crescent, Drury

Visit us upstairs at 151 King Street, Pukekohe Phone 09 271 8080 – another hub to pick up your favourite read.

PAPAKURA: Hawkins Theatre, 11am Thursday 25th July PUKEKOHE: Town Hall, 11am Thursday 18th July

• Café on site • Antique valuations, Sunday 7th July 10.30am- 2.30pm • $5 per item (Maximum 3 items) Limited spaces available

Enquiries to 021 334 055 or 09 298 3854

26 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

TO BOOK

0508 266 237 | www.operatunity.co.nz

JU1135

General Tickets $35 includes lunch after the show!

KAT6031-v2

Charities Commission Registration No. CC23580

Great news! Times Media has moved its magazine division – encompassing both Rural Living and SOUTH among others – to the heart of Pukekohe.

We bring you music from the greatest divas including Doris Day, Whitney Houston, Judy Garland and Connie Francis!

Drury School Hall

PROCEEDS TO COMMUNITY PROJECTS

NEW HOME FOR

www.ruralliving.co.nz www.southmagazine.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

Worth their weight in gold Having just celebrated its 5th birthday, Harwood Goldsmiths is…‘as good as gold!”

Founder, Penny Harwood and her team can look back with satisfaction on the hard work put into establishing a company of trustworthy, honest jewellers who pride themselves on customer service and quality craftsmanship.

“I couldn’t have progressed so far without the love and support of my family and friends, my fabulous team and our wonderful customers,” says Penny who clearly recalls her career shift from winemaking to jewellery-making.

“I was studying winemaking in Marlborough and working for Daniel Le Brun Wines. Over a tasting of the latest vintage bubbly I had a serendipitous meeting with a local goldsmith; my interest in the trade was instantly piqued.”

Subsequently, Penny took up an invitation to visit his jewellery workshop where “a new creative path became very clear to me.”

FROM THIS...

www.ruralliving.co.nz

As a result, she moved to Auckland to study at the Peter Minturn Goldsmith School in Mt Eden. After graduating as a qualified goldsmith (or bench jeweller) 13 years ago she came to Pukekohe to work for Paul Brighouse at Brighouse Design. “I bought the business 5 years ago and I’ve not looked back.”

Since then Penny and her dedicated team, including manager and talented goldsmith, Tineke Jansen, (integral to the company for the past three years), have become known for their skill, vision, precision workmanship and innovative designs.

Earlier this year, Ryo Takano, a graduate of the Peter Minturn Goldsmith School, joined the team. He comes from a mix of creative fields – hair dressing, make-up artistry and sculpture – and brings a fresh approach to complement Tineke’s extensive experience, which started when she completed a degree in contemporary jewellery and design at Hungry Creek in 2012. She then did a BDVA in photography at Unitec in 2015.

Together this team abounds in inventiveness, their specialties including stunning one-off, hand-made pieces, restoration, remodelling, CAD design, and an expert repair service – “we can never get enough of working with gold, silver and beautiful stones – the work is challenging; the outcomes, immensely satisfying.”

All work is carried out on-site, and Harwood’s vault is impenetrable so precious family heirlooms are always safe and sound.

“Unlike most retail jewellery stores, we are all manufacturing goldsmiths. This means clients can feel confident their precious family heirlooms are handled with the greatest of care, and are always secure,” Penny says.

“What’s more, nothing is lost in translation.

On arrival, clients talk directly to the craftsperson who will provide the required jewellery service. This helps foster trust and understanding of client needs.”

If asked to create a piece ‘from scratch’, Harwood’s can source any gems or metal required however, these jewellers will also spend time taking worn and broken, yet still beautiful, items, repurposing all of the metal and gemstones to create a brand ‘new’ piece made exclusively for the client.

“We also ensure that such lovingly created pieces are never repeated so they remain the only one of their kind,” Penny says.

Of course, services don’t stop at handmaking new pieces. Ring sizing is done within three days (or faster if needed), all manner of repairs and restorations are happily undertaken and insurance replacement quotes provided with subsequent remakes being common.

With the first five years behind her, Penny and her team are excited about the future.

They extend a warm welcome to visit their busy workshop (next to the ANZ bank in Edinburgh Street, Pukekohe), and watch them at work.

TO THIS

Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 27

WWW.HARWOODGOLDSMITHS.COM

KAT6623

A stitch in time and not A

mailbag in sight

Women prisoners are being taught a centuries old craft by a group affectionately dubbed the ‘Jailhouse Grannies’. Two of the quilters belong to Counties Country Quilters in Pukekohe, another lives in Awhitu. ANGELA KEMP reports.

I

t’s raining and blowing a gale but inside Pukekohe Indian Hall it’s warm and welcoming as a group of quilters settle in for their monthly meeting.

Some are quilting, some appliquéing, others do embroidery and one member is knitting. By the window, two of the regulars – Mary Ann France and Marie White – are cutting squares of brightly coloured fabric in preparation for their weekly visit to Wiri Women’s Prison.

The corrections facility in Manukau, the country’s first purpose-built women’s prison, which opened in 2006, houses more than 460 offenders who are classed as minimum to maximum security.

Formerly of Howick, but now a Karaka resident, Mary Ann started the Quilt Stitch group which runs quilting classes at the Wiri prison every Friday and Saturday.

A former high school science teacher, she has been leading these popular classes for ‘the girls’ since they began 13 years ago.

Every Friday and Saturday she and other volunteers undergo a strict security check to spend a couple of hours with the prisoners in order to teach them skills ‘for the outside.’

The women, who range in age from 18-80, are taught the basics of how to thread a needle, take measurements and chose colours.

“They are a disenfranchised group that few have the time of day for. One day they are going to be released back into society and we’d like to see them leave with something positive they can build on,” says Mary Ann. In 2013, a quilt made by Quilt Stitch participants was bought to join Parliament’s permanent art collection. The women also routinely make ‘angel quilts’ for children (and bigger quilts for teens) which are distributed through Kidz First.

“They are the only items we can bring out and we are not allowed to give the girls gifts. Security wise we cannot take out things they’ve finished for their children or their mothers because we could be smuggling,” Mary Ann explains.

28 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

“The fabric is all donated; the prison supplies bolts of batting and we just rock on. It’s open entry, open exit so if someone is paroled, released or moved then someone else can come in. They’re all ages, all abilities.”

Every time they enter the prison, Mary Ann and other volunteers pass through a security scanner like that at the airport.

“Everything we take in is examined, we’re not there to fight the system. If the girls get too demanding or there’s a little tiff going on, I tell them, ‘Hey! We are visitors to your house and we can leave.

Do you want us to go?’ I’ve been a teacher so nothing much surprises me. I don’t scare easily and the women all know we are predictable and fair.”

Mary Ann says there have been many rewarding success stories to come out of the group and while she cannot share most for reasons of privacy there is one remark from an offender she is happy to recount.

“One woman who was in for a long time for various offences said to me ‘we think you’re wonderful because you come to see us every week and, after all, we’re only prisoners and everyone hates us’..

“I said, ‘don’t ever talk to me like that again because you are a woman, you’re talented – although you probably don’t

know it yet – and this is what we are going to do together. All we are doing is opening windows and letting the fresh air in for you to grow and look how you’re growing’.

“Most of the group haven’t had these experiences before and the added benefit is that the girls are improving their literacy and numeracy without them realising.

“We have good infrastructure and a good balance in that women in New Zealand are behind us.”

In all, about 12 women and four volunteers attend the two and a half hour long sessions. The participants are classified as low security and must be attending their medical appointments to be considered for a sought after place in the group.

Each is responsible for five pins and one needle and they need clearance from prison authorities to use scissors in the room.

“They have to be able to work as members of a team which means they have to get on with each other and us, says Mary Ann. “If they can’t, they are asked to leave, but that’s only happened once or twice; these women are hungry to learn new skills and are so appreciative.”

Because some of the women have huge issues in their lives outside the prison, Mary Ann says it can show on their faces when they enter the class.

“I say to them, ‘would you like to take a break for a moment or quilt the issue you have into the work you’re doing?’ They’ve never heard talk like this before; we don’t ask and they can’t ask.”

Marie is another volunteer with the ‘Jailhouse Grannies’ and says it is really wonderful to see offenders often achieving something worthwhile for the first time in their lives.

“They love it. It’s a skill nobody can take away from them.”

Each programme lasts for 20 weeks and if members want to continue, and are good enough, they can go on to a programme called Gateway, which operates from Middlemore Hospital making quilts for charity. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Quilt eXhibition showcases local talent Pam Barber lives in Port Waikato and is a foundation member of Counties Country Quilters which started in 1990.

The former home economics and sewing teacher at Tuakau College has been quilting for more than 30 years and says she has always loved sewing.

The group, which meets once a month at the Pukekohe Indian Association Centre and has around 50 members, also holds workshops on basic techniques for new members and invites experienced tutors to give master classes.

“We have a reputation for being a very open and friendly group where everybody helps everyone else,” says Pam. “Anyone can quilt as long as they know how to use a sewing machine. You can get patterns to make anything; you don’t have to use your brain unless you want to but that’s the challenge for some people who want to do their own creative thing.”

Pam likes to make traditional quilts using patterns rather than designing them herself. She’s lost count of how many she’s made over the years and generally gifts her beautiful quilts to family and friends.

These have included one for each of her 10 nieces and nephews on their 21st birthdays and then baby quilts for the offspring that followed.

“I like doing them the old fashioned way and each quilt can take many, many hours to complete. Quilting is a bit like doing a jigsaw puzzle, sewing all the little bits together to make an end product.”

Pam quilts most evenings and has a special light to help her better see what she is working on.

Importantly, locals and visitors can see some of her exceptional work, and the equally spectacular creations of other members, at the Counties Country Quilters biennial exhibition on the weekend of August 9, 10 and 11.

There’ll be a mix of traditional and contemporary quilts and the exhibition will also include a ‘UFO’ from each member. The acronym stands for ‘unfinished object’, a project which has been left at the back of the cupboard for various reasons and never completed. www.ruralliving.co.nz

“One member set the challenge and has collected names and the particular quilt each is going to finish,” says Pam. “Mine is a cat quilt I started in 1990 but set aside when I had to embroider the faces on the cats.”

Visitors to the show also have the chance to win a beautiful white, red and black quilt made especially to raffle and there’ll be stalls of merchandise to further whet your appetite for the craft.

Counties Country Quilters exhibition, PIA Events Centre, 9am-4pm, Friday and Saturday, August 9 & 10 and 9am-2pm, Sunday, August 11.

PAM BARBER Photo Wayne Martin

Stalks stem plastics Plastics have been given the heave-ho by many consumers but who would have thought that one company would take the innovative step of producing green packaging ‘from and for’ its own products?

Committed to sustainability, Meadow Mushrooms has already dispensed with using plastic punnets to hold its mushrooms thereby eliminating the equivalent of 2.5 million plastic drink bottles in just one year. The cardboard punnets currently used are bio-degradable and compostable.

But, now, in a momentous move, Meadow Mushrooms (partnering with the Biopolymer Network and scientists from Plant and Food Research) is using mushroom stalks to develop a ‘green’ punnet to replace the current biodegradable punnets.

Biopolymer Network’s CEO, Sarah Heine says when many crops are harvested there is often a large volume of organic waste produced which may have only low-value options for disposal.

“Biopolymer Network has worked with the mushroom stalks for a number of years and has looked at several promising ideas, however, packaging seemed like an obvious area to work on,” she says. “We have been able to create products that look good and offer functional attributes such as strength and printable surfaces.”

Because mushrooms are sensitive to moisture, they can be affected by exposure to odours in the air, and are very susceptible to bruising and discolouration. The mushroom stalks add extra strength to punnets even if they get wet.

Stalk punnets will feature a unique breathable coating and a breathable film, which will allow for an extended shelf life, both in-store and at home.

Meadow Mushrooms is also trialling a bio-degradable film for their products, which if proven successful, will be implemented into their packaging.

30 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

Shiitake Risotto Ingredients: ◆◆1.5L vegetable stock ◆◆200g shiitake mushrooms ◆◆100g Portobello mushrooms ◆◆2Tbsp olive oil ◆◆1 med onion, finely chopped ◆◆1 stalk celery, finely chopped ◆◆2 Tbsp butter ◆◆300g vialone nano risotto rice (or similar) ◆◆125ml dry white wine ◆◆Handful of finely chopped herbs ◆◆60g parmesan cheese, finely grated

METHOD: Place stock in a saucepan and bring to boil. Keep stock simmering while you cook the risotto.

Trim the stalks of the shiitake and finely chop along with one third of the whole shiitake plus the Portobello mushrooms; set aside. Slice the remaining two thirds of shiitake and set aside Heat the olive oil in a medium

saucepan over a medium heat and gently cook the onion, chopped mushrooms and celery for about 5mins without browning.

Add one tablespoon of the butter and melt, then add the rice and cook, stirring every 2-3mins.

Add the wine, raise the heat and bring to the boil. Continue boiling until liquid is absorbed.

Turn down the heat and start adding the stock, half a cup at a time, stirring well with each addition until the stock is absorbed, before adding the next half cup. This will take about 15mins and the risotto should be soupy when you are finished. If you run out of stock use boiling water to achieve a nice al dente rice.

While the risotto cooks, heat the remaining butter in a frying pan over a medium heat and sauté the sliced shiitake for about 5mins with a pinch of salt. Stir these through the risotto along with the herbs and parmesan at end of cooking. Serve. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Hot Spots Mention this advert and receive a $10 bar/coffee tab on us when dining in.

Friday 11am – 8pm (open for lunch & dinner) Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm

CANOPIUS

MAXWELL’S EAT.PLAY.STAY

Canopius as always is bringing the finest, freshest and freerange product to the area’s surrounding Papakura. Our passion for quality food and coffee is second to none, and our selection of hot beverage choices, from your long black to our fresh turmeric latte, will please the most discerning of patrons. Whether you’re choosing your favourite from our menu, or grabbing something from the extensive cabinet selection, Canopius will cater to what drives your hunger.

It’s boutique and beautiful! Visit for lunch, dinner or 9 holes of golf. Our unique clubhouse is warm and welcoming – we love to have visitors. Set amongst the Bombay Hills, and now in its 20th year, Kaye Maxwell started with a few golf holes in the paddock and half her house as the clubhouse. Now a popular function centre, café & bar, with on-site accommodation, Maxwell’s retains the heart and soul of Kaye’s original vision – a place where people feel they belong with fresh country-style food, home baking and good coffee. See website for menu.

205B Ingram Rd, off Great South Rd, Bombay (drive to the end of the road) Ph 09 236 0911, www.eatplaystay.nz kaye@maxwellsgolf.co.nz

KAT5233-v12

145 Great South Road, Papakura Open Tues-Fri 7am-3pm Sat-Mon 8am-3pm Phone 09 299 1180 www.canopius.co.nz www.facebook.com/canopiuscoffeehouse

KAT6125-v8

WINTER HOURS FOR CAFE: Wednesday – 10-2pm Thursday – 3 -7pm Tradies Arvo

SUNDAY MARKET

beaufords in totara park

WINNER Rural Cafe of the Year. Recommending this cafe is easy – the food and service are that good and directions couldn’t be more straight forward: head along Karaka Rd and look out for the big... red shed! Along with their team, Paul (a chef with 30 years’ experience) and Kristina Smith serve quality food amidst beautiful, family and animal friendly, garden surrounds. Creative breakfasts, morning and afternoon teas, gourmet-style lunches and moreish cakes are all on offer at this fully licensed slice of rural paradise, open 8.30am-4pm.

Plus dinner theatre at its best – check our website.

16 Jesmond Rd (just off Karaka Rd), Drury Phone 09 294 6687 www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

Specialising in weddings, conferences and private functions, Beaufords is set in the beautiful grounds of Totara Park, adjacent to the Auckland Botanical Gardens, just 5 minutes off the motorway at Manurewa. A popular venue for weddings and private functions for over 40 years, Beaufords offers the luxury of choice between the Historic Homestead and Garden Marquee. Full catering and bar service with style and elegance at affordable prices.

Red Shed

Palazzo

www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5299-v17

red shed palazzo

90R Wairere Rd, Manurewa Phone 09 267 6979 Email john@beaufords.co.nz www.beaufords.co.nz

Beaufords

in Totara Park

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Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 31

beautY with beneFits Natasha Harris from Alberts Hair Salon applauds the virtues of the Jane Iredale makeup line.

m

akeup is an essential part of any woman’s well-being and, here at Alberts, we want to make that easy to achieve. Our goal is to provide products that feel good, look good on the skin and are good for the environment.

Jane Iredale makeup does just that; it is a makeup for all healthorientated individuals.

Jane Iredale makeup is a completely natural cosmetic line, which not only makes the skin look younger, but also gives unsurpassed coverage. Made exclusively from micronised minerals and pigments it is formulated to be safe on the most sensitive skin – a concealer, foundation, powder and sunscreen all in one!

Jane Iredale’s ‘Beauty with Benefits’ combines the most up-todate colours with skin-care benefits which conventional makeup products can only envy. ◆ Non-comedogenic, will not block pores ◆ Virtually no allergy risk ◆ Broad-spectrum UVB and UVA protection – SPF 20 ◆ Anti-inflammatory, helps to calm and soothe irritated skin ◆ Water resistant rating by an approved FDA lab ◆ Complete coverage for skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and redness following treatments such as chemical peels and laser resurfacing ◆ Contains no fillers ◆ Composed of inert minerals that cannot support bacteria ◆ Environmentally aware and not tested on animals Known as The Skin Care Makeup, the Jane Iredale line is so safe and beneficial to use that it is recommended by plastic surgeons and dermatologists throughout the world.

How can

iv sedation help You? Dental phobia and anxiety is very real for many people and today, there is a focus on changing dental experiences for the better.

By Yvonne Vannoort, sanctuary Dental

p

ast traumatic dental experiences can prevent people from reaching oral health goals. However, for those who fear dental treatment, IV (intravenous) sedation can be of help.

This form of sedation is a kind and comfortable alternative to lying in the dental chair feeling stressed about the treatment process. Dental phobia and anxiety is very real for many people and today, there is a focus on changing dental experiences for the better.

With IV, a comfortable line is inserted into the arm or hand through which the sedative is given. This is topped up frequently according to what is needed.

Clients are conscious (unlike a general anaesthetic) but very relaxed during the procedure and usually rouse feeling quite refreshed. Usually, there is also little memory of the procedure.

Not only is this technique useful for people who are anxious, it is also helpful for those who gag easily or are about to undergo a long or more difficult procedure.

Breathing and heart rates are constantly monitored and strict safety guidelines are followed.

With extra training and by achieving higher level examinations, dentists are qualified to administer such sedation. Nursing assistants are also qualified for their part. Before such a procedure, clients need to have an empty stomach and should not eat or drink for four hours before the appointment time.

Afterwards, they must have someone to take them home and to stay with them for the rest of the day. They cannot drive for that same day and on arriving home it is essential to rest – many sleep for a few hours.

Please contact our friendly team to arrange a consultation with our dentists.

We offer 30-minute Jane Iredale makeup consultations for $40. Its not a full makeup but goes through and correctly colour matches with your choice in foundation and works through other products you may need. If product is purchased then makeup consultation is complimentary. Book now to secure your Jane Iredale makeup consultation in salon.

All about your wellbeing 5

For all your dentistry needs including specialty dentistry – tongue tie release using waterlaser, orthodontics, milling crowns on site, laser dentistry, 3D xrays , safe amalgam removal

For enquiries and bookings contact: Alberts Hair Salon Shop 2/23 Hall St, Pukekohe Ph: 09 238 7576 www.alberts.co.nz

Sanctuary Dental Like us Sanctuary Dental The4619 Dentist on Facebook Unit 4, 24-34 Seddon St, Pukekohe | 09 238 Unit 20, 2 Bishop Dunn Place, Botany 166 King Street, Pukekohe Email info@thedentistpukekohe.co.nz Follow us 09 273 2173 09 238 4619on Instagram Sanctuarydentalpukekohe.co.nz KAT5285-v8

32 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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The big move:

reFresh renovations takes on new area

a

fter five years of exponential growth and success in Franklin, local renovation and design-tobuild construction company, Refresh Renovations is expanding to Manukau and Eastern Bays.

With New Franchise of the Year 2014 under it’s belt, and being named a finalist for Franchise of the Year in 2018, the team is busy but is also just getting started.

With her tailored and personable process, director, Kim Reiche, puts the company’s success down to transparency and communication, dedicated employees, sound design advice, reliable contractors and the added benefit of a project management system unique to Refresh.

“Communication is everything and with our project management starting as early as the concept design stage, clients have only one point of contact from that moment onwards.

This is absolutely the most important part of the process,” she says.

“It cuts out the chaos which can surround renovation projects, keeps us on Kim Reiche our toes and ensures

every single client is getting the service and care these projects require.

“Even our project management system prioritises this with a platform for clients to communicate with each sales consultant, project manager, and individual contractor.”

Echoing these sentiments is recent client, Mike, whose home needed a reclad, new roof and double-glazing installed.

Mike says he had a choice between Refresh Renovations Franklin and one other company.

After a phone call to Kim’s team, he says he knew immediately he trusted Refresh to get the job done.

“The thing I liked most about Kim and her team is that she put aside a time to come out with all involved contractors. Refresh also presented me with a fixed price bundle for the whole project which meant I didn’t have to wait for each contractor to individually come back to us.”

Finding the whole experience to be comprehensive and organised with

no hidden costs, he says: “Refresh even followed up six months later to see how the changes were settling in. They were just brilliant to deal with.”

As to the new business in Manukau and Eastern Bays, Kim says choosing that location was logical; somewhere close enough for existing contractors and partners to access but also an area with many homes screaming out for extensive renovations.

“There are a number of 1970’s and 80’s homes within the area. They generally have great volume and space, but the ergonomics and finishes need re-addressing. Alternatively, many have lovely large sections with room to expand,” Kim says.

“For example, indoor-outdoor flow was seldom prioritised during that time with kitchens disconnected from the rest of the home and no real organisation. In addition, bathrooms were commonly box-like with bathroomware styles an afterthought so that the bath, shower and toilet were often haphazardly fitted.

However an extension or renovation can rectify such problems.”

Although the business is expanding, Kim says Franklin is still ‘home’ and the team is always interested to talk with anyone who thinks their property or business could do with the Refresh touch.

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34 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

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Let us build your Forever Home www.bosanacbuilders.co.nz 09 239 3858

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WAIUKU 16 Warriston Ave WAIUKU 53 Hyland Place PERFECT INAPPROX EVERY WAY 5 CAR GARAGING5803 M2

am fascinated by history. The personalities, stories, fashion and the architecture enthral me – hence us joining hands with Heritage Homes to bring a taste of nostalgia to Franklin’s picturesque landscape.

History is the blueprint which guides who we are what we build our future into.

A wise man once said; “The best indicator of future performance is past performance.” Early villas and bungalows have stood the test of time; now with a few modern twists, character homes have solidified their future for adoring generations to come.

Here are some ideas you should ask about before building: ◆◆Communication and problem solving ◆◆Keeping to the budget and timeline ◆◆Workmanship / quality ◆◆Respecting your vision, culture and expectations We would add the following: ◆◆Check for experience & shared love of building or renovating homes in the style you want ◆◆Ensure you are dealing with a Licensed Building Practitioner who can offer third party guarantee ◆◆Visit past builds and talk to past clients about their build experience ◆◆Look for someone with whom you have a good rapport – building a home is ranked the second most stressful event in a relationship. Ensure you get on well with your builder.

By checking all these things you’ll be able to gauge how your builders’ work ethics and habits match up with your expectations.

At Nick Bosanac Builders, we pride ourselves on these qualities.

One of our favourite references from a past client is: “They are honest, hard working, give attention to detail, funny, easy to talk to and have excellent building skills! A great build experience should be creative, fun, organised*and stress free, I think! These are all skills that Bosanac Builders have!! We love our home!”

We aim for everyone to have this kind of experience when it comes to building their home. So, whether you are a modernist or a traditionalist at heart, we’d love to work with you on your transformational home goals – drop by our website www.heritagehomes.nz or pop in and see for yourself at our SELECTED BLINDS classical&twist show home *in Paerata Rise.

AUTOMATION kylie@bosanacbuilders.co.nz | 027 458 3038 | 12 Jonah Lomu Drive, Paerata Rise

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Fences no barrier to style

A

fence does more than provide security and privacy. It also shows the homeowner’s personal style and can add the perfect finishing touch to the overall look of your home and garden. What’s more there are many options to complement the varying architectural styles and building materials used today.

Among the 2019 fencing trends are: ◆◆ A MODERN AESTHETIC: Give your yard a contemporary look by installing a fence that uses horizontal boards instead of vertical ones. Keep the design sleek and simple and avoid incorporating ornate embellishments. ◆◆DARK COLOURS: Darker colours are becoming increasingly popular for fences. Consider making yours charcoal grey, midnight blue, chocolate brown or jet black. ◆◆ INCLUDING PLANTS: Embrace nature by planting wild-looking perennials which will grow along your fence every year. Alternatively, build small shelves into the fence where you can place potted flowers or herbs. ◆◆ ALTERNATIVE MATERIALS: Wood was once the go-to material for fences.

Nowadays, low maintenance vinyl or composite can be just as attractive and more affordable to boot. Other fashionable options include stone, brick and metal. Hedging planted against wrought iron railing fences can also look attractive.

No matter what type of fence you choose, be sure to talk to your neighbour before you begin building it.

Not only is this a matter of courtesy, but they may be willing to halve the cost of your fence. However, if it is particularly expense, you can discuss the amount they are required by law to contribute to fencing.

THINKING ABOUT A NEW HOME? START HERE.

Visit the Pukekohe showhome – the team would love to meet you to discuss how we can help you into a new Platinum Home KAT5315-v2

www.platinumhomes.co.nz | 0508 Platinum (752 846) Visit our Pukekohe Showhome 6 Twomey Drive, Pukekohe

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Or our Papakura Showhome 3 Pakaraka Drive, Papakura Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 35

The Countryside Begins with Townsend...

Add value in the kitchen without breaking the bank If you’re planning on selling your home, the kitchen is a great place to start to add value. The kitchen is one of those spaces that can make or break the sale for many buyers, but before you make the decision to totally gut your kitchen and start again, here are some tips on how to get the best out of your existing kitchen without breaking the bank.

1. EASE AND FLOW First ask yourself if your kitchen functions well or are there some things about it that have always driven you crazy. Is the pantry too small, is the dishwasher too far from the sink or the rubbish bin, is there never enough storage or are the cupboards too high?

Consider whether moving an appliance or rejigging those cupboards could significantly improve the flow of your kitchen. Also, think carefully about what you are going to include as chattels in the kitchen. Anything difficult to replace that is a key part of the kitchen should be included in the sale if possible.

2. A GOOD CLEAN AND A LICK OF PAINT One of the simplest ways to freshen up your kitchen is with a coat of paint. Keep it light, airy and neutral – be sure to pick a shade that works with your existing counters and cabinets. Ask for advice at your local paint shop or when in doubt, white is usually a safe bet. A professional clean is a worthwhile investment and should include ceilings and walls. Fly spots and food splatters are big detractors to an otherwise sparkling kitchen.

3. UPDATE YOUR HARDWARE Updating your cupboards with new handles can give your kitchen a more contemporary feel, but make sure they are still in keeping with the overall style of the room. A country

style kitchen with traditional wooden cupboards for example won’t suit the same hardware as a sleek minimalist kitchen.

4. DECLUTTER STORAGE SPACES Make sure your cupboards and open shelves are clean, orderly and decluttered. Potential buyers will be looking inside your cupboards, and if they are overflowing it gives the impression that the storage space in your kitchen is inadequate.

The same goes for the pantry. Pare back the contents until you have some open space on each shelf. Organise what’s left into a set of matching food storage containers rather than lots of open packets. To make space you may need to remove items from your pantry and store them in a box out of sight during open homes.

5. LET THE LIGHT IN Consider the lighting in your kitchen – you’re looking for that bright, airy feel. Good lighting will make your kitchen seem bigger, brighter and will make it more functional too. No one wants to cook or entertain in a dark, poorly lit kitchen.

6. HELP BUYERS IMAGINE IT AS THEIR OWN Your kitchen may be very personal to you and your tastes, but now is the time to make it clean, simple and neutral. Buyers may not share your love of bright colours or ornate accessories. They’ll want to stamp their own personality on their new kitchen, so give them a clean canvas to work with if you want

to appeal to a wide range of buyers. So will your home tick all these boxes ☐ Looks and smells clean and fresh ☐ Appears spacious, light and airy ☐ Provides a neutral canvas and avoids outof-date features ☐ Makes it easy to imagine working and entertaining in ☐ Is tidy and uncluttered yet still feels welcoming Still worried as to whether it is going to add value then ask Jo-Ann – a veteran of many a house remodel she can offer advice on where to from here. She would hate you to overcapitalise for the sake of asking her to give it the once over!

Jo-Ann Day-Townsend 021 1696 056 jo-ann.day-townsend@harcourts.co.nz www.joanndaytownsend.co.nz

36 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

KAT5307-v19

Port Realty Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

www.ruralliving.co.nz

modest sales, high prices

t

he market is experiencing a period of adjustment with multiple changes impacting on buyer confidence.

The anti-money laundering legislation,the now defunct capital gains tax, and the ban on overseas buyers have all contributed to stabilising the market.

Data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) shows there were 140 more lifestyle sales for the three months ending April, 2019 than for the three months ending March, 2019. Overall there were 1752 lifestyle sales in the three months ending April, 2019 compared to 1919 lifestyle sales for the three months ending April, 2018.

Provincial markets remain positive, although some areas are starting to mimic the Auckland market. However now that capital gains tax is off the table, the market can refocus on factors which will determine where the market goes rather than speculate about potential threats.

The market is well into a new cycle, one of modest sales numbers and prices moving in a tight band, close to record highs. During such cycles vendors tend to wait for the market to become more active. The important message for sellers is if they want to move forward, they need to react to and meet the market.

Interest rates are low and expected to stay that way for some time. Banks do have money to lend to those they deem able to meet repayments. The biggest factor holding back market activity is lack of confidence.

Given where the market is now, it would be a great time for the Reserve Bank to tweek its deposit requirements.

Too many first home buyers are being excluded from the market.

Speculation about future direction, is so rife that it has undermined certainty. That certainty is expected to return but possibly not while the current government is in power.

Funeral... bytes Chipping in for funeral costs may soon be an easy way to pay our respects. While more and more may be setting up Give A Little pages and the like, Christchurch-based Memorial Gifting has developed a website designed entirely for this purpose.

“It is common for the family to ask for donations to a charity in their remembrance and often in lieu of flowers,” the company’s director, Terry Fullerton, says. “What is so distinctive about Memorial Gifting compared with other online donation sites is that we enable funeral directors to insert a donation link at the time of writing the death notice.”

Such an initiative could see an end to donation boxes at funerals, Mr Fullerton adds.

“Donating online means the family of the deceased knows who has donated and can thank them, plus the people making the donations will receive a tax receipt from the charity. Our online donation service is available at no cost to the family or the funeral home as an easy, effective way to collect.”

For more information, see memorialgifting.com.

woRKPLACe BuLLYIng There are times when bosses need to crack the whip (metaphorically speaking), but sometimes lines are crossed.

Demoralised workers are not productive workers, which is why it is essential for businesses to ensure that workplace bullying does not take hold. In this book, former human resources and management consultant, Andrea Needham, provides a helpful guide to understanding and (most importantly) curtailing bullying in the workplace.

Andrea Needham: Workplace Bullying – a costly workplace phenomenon| RRP $35 | Andrea Needham Leadership Charitable Trust

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Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 37

JakMat deals to muddy paths and driveways Watch our video to see how easily Jakmat can be installed: centrallandscapes.co.nz/pages/how-to-install-jakmat Talk to our friendly team at Central Landscapes Drury about how JakMat can make your outdoors look amazing!

Visit your local yard: Central Landscape Supplies Drury Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 7am - 5pm, Saturday: 8am - 4pm, Sunday: 9am - 1pm 38 — Rural Living — June/July 2019

www.ruralliving.co.nz

www.centrallandscapes.co.nz • 09 294 8410 • 141 Great South Rd, Drury, Auckland

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give ‘em a hand!

It’s been described as the Edward Scissorhand of fruit but most people will know Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis, as ‘Buddha’s Hand’ or ‘Fingered Citron’.

Yes, it does look like something from another planet, a sea creature from the deep, or even related to a ‘Thing’ from the Addams Family.

However, this aromatic citrus, with fruit resembling fingers on an open hand, symbolises long life, good fortune and happiness in Asia and is often used in religious ceremonies.

The citron (there are several other varieties as well as the fingered citron) is one of the oldest fruits with documentation reaching as far back as the Mesopotamian civilisation.

Seen in Buddhist temples where they are traditionally used as offerings, it is said, Buddha favoured the fruits because of their likeness to praying hands.

But the real beauty is in the rind (rather than the bitter flesh), which can be used to make candied citrus peel and syrups and is used in marmalades and alcoholic drinks.

The zest can also be used in salad dressings and to top fish, tofu, salads or roasts. Importantly, the citron is loaded with properties which can boost the immune system, balance acid levels in the gut, improve digestion and help regulate blood pressure. One study suggests that because of its flavonoid and phenolic components, it may work as an analgesic to relieve pain.

The fruit, which ripens in late autumn to winter, has an intense aroma, combining fragrances of tangerines, osmanthus, cumquats and lemons and a bowl of Buddha’s hands can be used to scent a room – an ideal air freshener.

Buddha’s hand trees grow to about three metres tall and do best in a warm, full sun, frost-protected spot.

They love free draining soil rich in organic matter. When planting, dig a hole which is at least twice as deep and twice as wide as the pot the tree came in. In heavier soils dig a slightly deeper hole. Backfill the hole and mix in compost, sheep pellets, and feed every one to two weeks with Yates® Thrive® Citrus Liquid Plant Food to help keep the plant healthy and productive.

Central’s Tips July 2019

It’s a time for doing prep - garden chores that get things ready for spring gardening success. Apply copper and oil to fruit trees, control moss in your lawn, move deciduous trees and prune roses. It’s also a great time to get muddy areas under control with drainage and Jakmat.

In the Veggie Patch • Chitting potatoes: place seed potatoes in a dry, light area to sprout, so that you can begin to plant in late August

• Get the berries in: Try Raspberry ‘Heritage, Red Currant ‘Gloire de Versailles’, Black Currant ‘Magnus’ and check on the blueberry varieties that are best in warmer climates.

• A spray of copper and oil is an age-old, natural way of applying a guard against the early season fungal infections and insect attack on fruit trees, grape vines etc

• Start some early seedlings of tomatoes, rocket, lettuce and dill indoors.

The rest of the Garden • Deciduous trees and shrubs become dormant in winter, so this is the best time to lift and reposition them around your garden

• Rose pruning can begin from late July – watch on-line videos or check your local garden centre for their schedule of pruning demonstrations

• Daphne, wintersweet and boronias are just

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some of the wonderful scented winter shrubs that can be planted – preferable near a walkway or a beside a door

• Control moss in the lawn by spraying Yates’ Surrender and get prepared by sharpening the blades of your lawnmower KAT5290A-v20

Yates thrive Citrus Liquid Plant Food is a complete citrus fertiliser containing a specially formulated blend of nitrogen to promote green leaf growth, phosphorus for strong root development and potassium to encourage flowering, healthy plants and quality fruit.

Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 39

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Home and Away's services include: – Regular home and office cleaning – Show homes – Moving in and out cleans – Builder renovations or clean ups – Rental home cleaning – Window cleans – Gift vouchers for special occasions

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AUCKLAND SUPERSITE Call Free 0800 742 522

162 Great South Road, Takanini www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — June/July 2019 — 43

* T60 Luxury Model shown, specs may vary from image shown. Shown with optional extras available at extra cost.

SC3852-v15

www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5286-v19

44 — Rural Living — June/July 2019