Rural Living December-January 2019

Fr ee!

ruralliving.co.nz

December 2018/January 2019

Big berries best?

Santa EYES OPEN FOR

Demon angler

What a catch!

Shetland ponies – MiGHty MoUNtS

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Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 1

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December/January nCHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR twilight Sustainable Papakura Christmas market December 19, 4-6.30pm, Sir Edmund Hillary Library Papakura, Level 1, Library and Museum Building, 209 Great South Road, Papakura Waste not but we’ll always want more at Christmas! Featuring a wide array of handicrafts, festive decorations, crafts, jewellery, arts, homemade preserves and much more, this market is especially geared towards sustainable living, right down to the shopping bags. new year’s eve rooftop Party December 31 - January 1, 7pm-12.30am, Rydges Hotel, 59 Federal St Cnr Kingston Street, Auckland City A live DJ will be on the rooftop shouting out as Auckland prepares to blow the top off New Year’s Eve. Expected to provide magnificent views of Super City celebrations, this event will also see plenty of corks a-popping. For details, visit rydges.com.

wondergarden Festival December 31 – January 1, Silo Park, cnr Beaumont & Jellicoe Sts, Auckland City Cut Off Your Hands, JessB, and seek your Fortunes while experiencing Nightmares on Wax, enjoying that DaM-FunK and many more musical acts at Silo Park this New Year’s Eve. Featuring all sorts of entertainment – there’s much more on the menu than Tina Turntables and a microphone on offer – this event will show how city folk like to blow the froth off a New Year. For more information – including a complete schedule - visit wondergarden.co.nz

nARTS Papakura art group exhibition Now – Jan 19, Papakura Museum, 209 Great South Rd, Papakura In addition to a wide range of artworks

by Papakura Art Group, this intriguing exhibition also offers a look back at the way we were featuring a nostalgic display of Christmas toys. See papakuramuseum. org.nz for more information. interfaces with lena Schmid Now – February 23, Papakura Art Gallery, Averill St, Papakura Through a series of landscapes, beautifully painted in oils, Lena’s new series reveals explores her family’s heritage in southern Germany. For further information about this exhibition and more at Papakura Art Gallery, see facebook.com/papakuraartgallery. groundswell: avant-garde auckland 1971–79 Now – March 31, Auckland Art Gallery, Wellesley St East, Auckland City

Craig

Trudy

Brendon

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Stephanie

021 998 605

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2 — Rural Living — December/January Moore2019 McCardle Alderlieste Ashby Boyce

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Utatao

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Wondergarden Festival Cut Off Your Hands

Focused on the leading role played by artist and educator, Jim Allen (who changed the way art was taught at Elam School of Fine Arts) in the development of a new, local contemporary art scene, this exhibition explores Avantgarde Auckland, 1971–1979. Despite being a retrospective, work on show is sure to inspire today’s artists into discovering new ways forward. See aucklandartgallery.com for details.

1000 Doors January 10 – February 6, Aotea Square, Queen Street, Auckland City “The man who comes back through the Door in the Wall will never be quite the same as the man who went out” - Aldous Huxley. Whether you’re looking discover a new perception on life or simply to ‘break on through’ to the other side, the doors of our world (as opposed to the walls we throw up) often lead us to discover more than we ever expected.

A seemingly endless series of portals, this installation artwork challenges us to look beyond as well as within. Details via thebigidea.nz/events.

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

1000 Doors

SRAM Tour de Ranges

nSPORT, FITNESS & RACING ellerslie – Boxing Day, new year’s Day & Summer race Days December 26, January 1 & 13, Ellerslie Racecourse, Ascot Avenue, Remuera Clever punters will be ‘boxing’ clever the day after Christmas. However, as Ellerslie’s summer season continues, there’s even more fun on track... and off.

For details about these three popular race days, visit ellerslie.co.nz. auckland Cup Day December 31, 3-10.30pm, Alexandra Park Raceway, Greenlane Rd West, Epsom Keen to kick off your New Year celebrations in style by ‘trotting’ along to Alexandra Park? A free family day (along with plenty of racing, of course) will be topped off with a fireworks display. More information via alexandrapark.co.nz.

Beginning and ending in Clevedon, this cycling event sees riders tackle courses of either 30 or 110km winding through Auckland’s eastern countryside. For more information, visit tourderanges.co.nz.

Scott

Steve

027 210 8887

021 966 332

free entertainment, free movies and more awaits visitors to this carnival-like event. All the fun of the fair, Trillian Trust Funfest expects to delight and entertain all members of the family. For additional information visit funfest.co.nz.

nEXPOS & FESTIVALS the extravaganza Fair December 26-28, 9am-5pm, Raglan Rugby Club, Cnr Cross St and Park Drive, Raglan Roll on up to Raglan from Boxing Day as this wonderful Waikato town lays on a fair of fantastic proportions, featuring the Ashton Family Circus as well as market stalls, arts and craft, food, music and much more. For details, visit extravaganza.co.nz. trillian trust Funfest 2019 January 10-13, Sir Woolf Fisher Arena, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau Four days of free rides,

Sram tour de ranges January 12, 7am-1pm, from Clevedon A&P Showgrounds, 107 Monument Road, Clevedon

www.ruralliving.co.nz Ball McElhinney

Groove in the Grapes

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Simon

Soundsplash Festival January 18-20, Wainui Reserve, Wainui Rd, Raglan Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the water, the music roars into life on land again in Raglan. This year’s family-friendly music fest’ features the stylings of Sticky Fingers, Famous Dex, Macky Gee, Katchafire and more. Visit soundsplash.co.nz for full details. groove in the grapes January 19, 3-9pm, Turanga Creek Organic Vineyard, 133 Whitford Park Rd, Whitford Time to shake your groove thing? If a touch of sun, music, barbecue food and a glass (or more) of wine or craft beer are your idea of a recipe for fun, this event is for you. More details via turangacreek. co.nz.

Murray Nick Rural Living — December/January —3 Dawson 2019 Bates 027 420 2540 Sales Manager Branch Manager

Macrae Tuakau

From the editor... number of times a courtesy van has been available for transport – I’m so appreciative of the drivers who made celebrating easy.

Of course, in between all the merriment there have been magazines to produce including this issue of Rural Living which I hope readers will take time to enjoy.

There’s a pot pourri of stories – Shetland ponies, strawberry growing, summer recipes and more. But, I’m guessing, the New Year will be here in the blink and it will be time to start all over again.

In the meantime, the Rural Living team says warmest thanks our advertisers and our loyal readers for all their support. We wish you peace and goodwill. We hope yours is a Christmas filled with joy followed by a New Year that brings prosperity and fulfilment.

Now, with ‘gladsome voice’ we look forward to 2019 and, undoubtedly, we’ll return with a tale to tell!

meeting and dancing their way from Mayoral Drive to Custom Street – blue clad, orange-faced and epitomising the Christmas spirit.

Back at home I also attended the Groovit end of year junior show. My younger grandson (6), turned hip-hop fanatic, was part of the Phunky Feet 3 performers and, of course I was smitten. But more than that, this whole show, in particular the experienced dancers blew me away – totally unexpected and a little bit mindblowing. I’m going again next year!

The past weeks also saw us enjoy ‘Christmas dinner’ at the Tuakau Cosmopolitan Club – hats off to the kitchen team who delivered a sumptuous feast; I wish they were doing it again – I’d be back in a shot!

For sure, I’ve had my fair share of Christmas celebrations – everything from members’ night at the Franklin Club – I seldom miss Friday night there – our own work luncheon, a street party with neighbours… and more I’ve been to elder grandson’s guitar recital (watch out Green Day) and the hip hop concert. I really do love this time of year and the best part has been the

Helen Perry, Editor

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eart-warming Christmas festivities have been in abundance this year. On the home front our own Pukekohe Santa Parade (plus others in nearby sister towns) attracted plenty of enthusiastic youngsters injecting a good measure of joie de vivre into our communities.

This year I was torn between staying close to home on December 2 or heading into Auckland City for the Farmers parade.

Actually, I didn’t have much choice; both my daughter and grandson were in the parade as oompa-loompas; I wouldn’t have missed them for the world.

It was the first time I’d been to a Farmers Christmas parade in years and, initially, I went kicking and screaming (almost). The thought of the traffic, the crowds and the wait, didn’t enamour me. As it turned out – no traffic, a very happy, well mannered crowd, which was easily negotiated, and only a relatively short wait of 45 minutes.

It was wonderful to see Queen Street in such a jolly mood and I applaud all those who took part in or contributed to the parade in voluntary roles. Like many others, I was as proud as Punch – my two certainly played their part, greeting,

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Freephone: 0800 456 789 � www.ruralliving.co.nz Freephone 2018

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Rural Living is a FREE monthly magazine aimed at the rural lifestyle market. Delivered to RD lifestyle addresses throughout Franklin, it is also available from pick-up boxes in the main townships including Pukekohe, Waiuku, Tuakau, Pokeno and Te Kauwhata.

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4 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

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We LoVe A PArAde! As Christmas Day approaches, Franklin’s young ones have had their eyes on the prize, keeping a keen eye out for Santa – one of those who didn’t get the ‘sack’ due to recent controversy. During the Pukekohe Christmas Parade, goodwill was in no short supply locally amidst a bumper crowd on a fabulous summer day, as our cover image and photo spread (see pages 22-23) attest.

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DISCLAIMER: Articles published in Rural Living do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only.

Mangawara Times Media Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liableWoodleigh for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this magazine. All the Ruawaro material in this magazine has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times Media Ltd.

design

build Settling In SOUTH EAST WAIKATO FRANKLIN

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Proudly building Kiwi homes Proudly Kiwi homes for Kiwisbuilding for 15 years for Kiwis for 15 years At A1homes we’re here to make things easy and it couldn’t be easier when using all the good stuff from home.

Changing plans? Easy. Working out costs? Head over to our website, we’ve pretty much done it for you.

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.

So whether it’s your first home, second home, or home away from home, call A1homes or visit our website and discover the easiest way to get the home you want.

Showhome: 8 Kilbryde Crescent (off Mark Ball Drive), Pokeno Village

Contact: Nicky Booker m: 027 226 5880 e: office.sthakld@a1homes.co.nz

Open: Tues to Fri 10am - 3pm Saturday By Appointment

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Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 5 KAT5300

nauGhty but nice

Shetlands are a breed apart With names like Toffee, Pumpkin, Felicity and Smudge, Tullamore Shetlands are everything you’d expect from this most popular of pintsized ponies. Based near Tuakau, breeders Deanna and Richard Holst spoke to ANGELA KEMP.

e

verybody loves Shetland ponies and everyone has a story to tell about them. I used to ride one called Spitfire, a pocket rocket like his namesake. My daughter used to career along country lanes near our home on another – Patsy. We were both unseated several times yet we loved our little first mounts to bits.

Such is the affection the Shetlands’ foster it’s no surprise their popularity has never waned in a 2000-year history. The Holsts have a somewhat shorter love affair with the ponies, one which started 12

6 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

years ago while helping a friend with her very special black Shetland stallion, Noah.

“My friend Sue Jackson was a successful breeder of Shetlands and I went along to help her at a stallions’ parade at Karaka where I fell totally in love with him,” says Deanna. “At the time I was showing Standardbreds but my heart was lost to Shetlands from that moment.”

Sadly, Sue passed away two years ago and, in December, the Northern Region Shetland Pony Enthusiasts Club in Pukekohe are holding a memorial show in her honour at the Pukekohe A & P Showgrounds.

It’s a special event not least because Deanna has secured the services of two world class judges from the Unite Kingdom. It is expected to attract entries from around the North Island and even from the South Island.

“When Sue was in Pukekohe Hospital they let me take in two of my ponies, Kohl and Pumpkin, to visit her. She was delighted but everyone thought she must have dreamt it when she told them about it later!”

Now the Shetland which started it all, Noah, is enjoying his retirement on the Holst’s 90-acre block he shares with 30

other Shetlands. Having reached the age of 25, Noah and his 19-year-old paddock mate, Indie, enjoy the special attention they get from Deanna and Richard.

With a string of wins to its name, including NZ Stallion of the Year, Foal of the Year and Northern Region Pony of the Year, the Tullamore Shetland Pony Stud has reached a position where more of its progeny will be sold.

“It’s more of a hobby if I’m honest,” says Deanna. “We’ve only just started to sell them which I find very difficult as I love them all.”

She says while Shetlands can be naughty, rather like badly behaved children, their personalities and smartness make them irresistible. Their diminutive size makes them ideal as first ponies and their hardiness makes them low maintenance.

Much of a Shetland’s disposition depends on its past experience with people. Too many Shetland owners forget that they are dealing with a real horse and not an oversized teddy bear. A spoiled Shetland can be headstrong and snappy. On the other hand, when taught to respect human authority, they can be steady, trainable, and truly sweet. www.ruralliving.co.nz

ShetlanD Pony FaCtS The appealing Shetland pony is a hardy trooper!

The smallest of the British native ponies, Shetlands are native to the Shetland Isles off the northern coast of Scotland. The Islands are frequently subjected to fierce gales, rain and sleet with temperatures little above freezing.

Over the centuries, the ponies have evolved characteristics such as the ability to eat seaweed, salty grasses and even drink salt water. They also possess larger nasal cavities than other breeds, which has the effect of warming the freezing air before it reaches the lungs.

By comparison, the Tullamore’s Shetlands live in a much kinder environment although Deanna says overseas judges who’ve visited their property say it’s very much like Shetland – but greener, warmer and without the constant rain!

In the Shetland Isles ponies can be seen grazing by the roadside, on the beaches or on the heathery hills. Appearing to roam wild, the ponies are, in fact, all owned and tended to by local crofters.

Deanna says although her ponies are not as free range as their Scottish cousins, she and Richard desist from over handling them to allow them to retain their independent characteristics and www.ruralliving.co.nz

personalities.

Some are more domesticated than others and are available for children’s parties where they are happy to be ridden or to pull a cart. Needless to say, they all learn how to be led although if they comply when they reach the show ring is a different matter altogether, Deanna says!

It’s true what they say – a Shetland has no idea that it’s small yet it practically bursts at the seams with personality, she confirms.

“Spunky, mischievous, and independent, the Shetland is among the smartest of horse breeds and can read people adeptly and sum up a situation with incredible speed.”

If owners fail to give it something to do, it will find its own entertainment – hence its reputation for being naughty.

A companion is also a must, but the companion does not have to be another horse, a goat will do, Deanna says.

Show season is now in full swing where visitors can get to see some of the region’s finest Shetlands. So, head for the Counties Power Pukekohe Show, at the Franklin A&P showgrounds, February 15-16, 2019.

Deanna will be organising Shetland pony rides at the show.

◆ Crofters on the Shetlands Islands used the ponies to carry peat and for transport but they are best known for their role as pit ponies in the coal mines of England. In 1870, Lord Londonderry founded the Londonderry Stud to breed ponies for the mines. Many ponies from this stud were sold to studs on the mainland and the ancestors of these ponies were exported all over the world, including New Zealand. ◆ The Shetland pony is a lot like a miniature draft horse with a stocky body, small, pricked ears and short, well-muscled legs. The coat, mane and tail can get thick and shaggy, keeping him warm and dry in harsh island weather.

These ponies come in just about every colour other than spotted. ◆ Shetlands can pull twice their own weight, giving them about twice the power of most heavy horses yet stand no higher than 10.2 hh.

Photos2019 Wayne — Martin Rural Living — December/January 7

The year that was!

Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

COUNTRY LAD

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his being the final issue for the year, I thought I’d revisit some stories which were of great interest to many of my loyal readers.

Earlier in the year I drew attention to so much of our local land being taken for housing. I pointed out that once houses were built on that land we were saying ‘goodbye’ to some of the world’s best growing soils.

The heading was “Call to Preserve the Land”. There is still no resolution to this problem but I feel that the powers to be should act now and decide which land fits housing and which fits vegetable growing.

In the January/February issue I covered the story of Sonny Bill (or Billy for short) who catches and eats rabbits. In spring, for example, he can and does bring home four or five bunnies each week.

He devours each animal leaving just the ears, feet and stomach. He also eats most of the fur which, according to our vet, is good for cats as it cleans out their intestines.

In May/June we published a story and photo of Jessie our stray cat who we had for many years. In the story I wondered if her original owners ever thought about where she had finished up. Well, two days later, they phoned and said they believed that she had been their cat. They came

Clockwise from top right – Billy annoying Brian while he is trying to write his column; Jessie; Willowbrook with her foal Willsherocknroll; Willsherocknroll ready for the sales.

to have a look and said she was definitely their cat and were delighted to see her.

At the time, I told them they could look but not keep her! Unfortunately, about four months later Jessie became ill and had to be euthanised. She has been sadly missed by us and Billy.

In our August/September issue I related the story of our lovely mare Wlllowbrook.

She became quite sick following the birth of her last foal, a filly called Willsherocknroll, born last year and named by one our readers, Mrs Margaret Glass in the ‘Name the Filly’ competition.

We gave Willowbrook a year’s respite from breeding duties in the hope she would come back fit and well but she never fully recovered and had to be

euthanised. Her last born, Willsherocknroll, is now being prepared by Adrienne Matthews for the National New Zealand Standardbred Yearling sales in February.

BaCK to the PreSent Last month I had the pleasure of addressing the annual luncheon of the Tuakau Old Settlers’ Association.

It was a splendid occasion and catered for more than 120 guests. I spoke on my primary school years at Tuakau and discovered quite a few people who were in my class all those years ago. Many remembered me from my years there.

But, now – Merry Christmas and go the Black Caps!

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

295 TUAKAU ROAD, PUKEKOHE • 09 238 9414 Email: info@hrfisken.co.nz • www.hrfisken.co.nz 8 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

KAT5314-v11

Just closed the Stats! (and Sundays!)

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Fun times at Clevedon A&P Once again the Clevedon A&P Show brought together a fabulous line up of talent across a range of rural events and themes. It was all about competitions, colour and real country character. Rides, stalls, music, food and displays of rural skills ensured there was something for young and old. Photographer JANET KEELING gives her pictorial take on the event.

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Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 9

Over

the gate

Paul Welch

nZ sPort FishinG council Whether for sport or just for fun, Kiwis flock to our coasts in greater numbers over summer with hopes of landing a trophy or two, or just something to take home for the table. Recently, we spoke to NZ Sport Fishing Council member, Ararimu’s Paul Welch... Over the Gate.

your club’s name is demon Anglers catching club – how significant is that name?

I called it a ‘Catching Club’ rather than a fishing club because we like to ‘plan our fish and fish our plan’ rather than drop a hook and wait to see what happens. As a club, we have members from Whangarei to Whitianga.

What do you do for a living? does it leave enough time for fishing?

I did an electrical apprenticeship years ago and moved my way up into project management of large commercial projects, mainly in the CBD. At one stage I had more than 80 staff but I’ve always made time for fishing to ensure a healthy work/life balance.

What is it about fishing that spins your... reels?

My earliest angling memory is catching rock cod and blue maomao on old green string handlines off the rocks in Northland with my father. I like surprises – will it be a personal best or maybe a fish I have never caught before? – you never know what type or size fish is eyeing your bait or lure, I enjoy that most.

Photos supplied

How well do you go in fishing competitions? is there an extra thrill during competitions?

I don’t go chasing external competition cups or prize money myself but I do have a goal of getting my name on all our internal cups at least once. We 10 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

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have members who do like to chase silverware and it is all about bragging rights. Any element of competition adds to the enjoyment, even if it is just a quiet wager between two men on a boat.

How much is down to the man and how much to the gear?

It’s mostly down to the man although I have spent thousands buying the best gear available. Good gear certainly helps but if you can catch a marlin on one kg line then it is all down to technique, experience and, sometimes, luck too, of course.

Any epic battles?

My favourite to catch is kingfish and the start of every fight is amazing. Even relatively small 10-15 kg kingfish can beat you up. At the time, it feels like you are hooked up for ages but it is probably less than 10 minutes of chaos, then you throw the fish back and do it all again. does size really matter? What’s your favourite fish eating-wise?

I mainly fish for sport so size always matters. Taking home a feed is a great bonus but I prefer to throw the big ones (and small ones) back and keep only mid-size fish. My rule is if you need to measure it then it’s too small so it goes back.

I love John Dory, Blue Cod and Hapuku as table fish but don’t target them very often. I always fillet my own fish then chop it up for sashimi, ceviche, roll it in flour or put some in the smoker. www.ruralliving.co.nz

What’s your favourite local fishing spot?

I have had a lot of fun in the Firth of Thames but also enjoy chasing gurnard on the Manukau Harbour. One of the great things about living in Franklin is having a choice between both harbours, depending on wind direction and tides.

Fishing is considered one of New Zealand’s most popular sports. How representative are club membership numbers in this regard?

I don’t think club membership is an accurate measure of its true popularity.

There is an innate desire to hunt and gather, however the financial cost and time commitments do create limitations for many keen anglers who might only fish once a year or less. in terms of injury and loss of life, it’s also one of the most dangerous sports.

How common is it that people who should know better don’t take safety precautions?

The ocean is to be respected at all times.

Even on the calmest days, there can be a rogue wave you don’t see coming.

Safety is paramount and, if you are keen enough to join a fishing club, you’ll probably take all aspects of your hobby seriously.

Unfortunately, it is quite common for people to do stupid things. The Coastguard does an amazing job supporting anglers and boaties but I’m sure they would tell you most call outs could have been prevented with a few safety checks.

What role does the New Zealand Sport Fishing council (NZSFc) play in terms of conservation?

Legasea (a subsidiary of NZSFC) actively represents recreational fisherman when quota and conservation decisions are made by government. There is a lot of time and money spent standing up for our right to get a hook wet, which is greatly appreciated by members.

Thankfully, common species in the Auckland/Franklin area are plentiful so there is no need to avoid fish in the name of conservation. if you could grow any plant or raise any animal what and why?

I would love to have a Moa farm for the ultimate Christmas roast or breed Haast Eagles and take up falconry. if you could be Minister of Fisheries for one day, what would you do first and why?

Ensure all fishing practices are conducted with sustainability as the ultimate goal even if it meant having a complete ban of commercial and recreation fishing during spawning session. if you could invite any three people to dinner (living or dead), who and why?

My other passion is music so I would invite Jimi Hendrix, John Entwhistle and John Bonham for a jam then sit back with a cold ale and enjoy.

Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 11

School for birds!

Birds in, pests out! That’s the aim of Hunua School students who are set on lifting birdlife in and around their school grounds.

Renowned for fostering environmental awareness among students, the school’s latest project focuses of seeing its grounds pest-free in the near future, years ahead of Auckland Council’s, Pest Free by 2050 goal.

Funded by the SouthSci Platform, Curious Minds and Comet Auckland, students have partnered with mentors and science buddies in the community, working co-operatively to develop skills and knowledge to assist them with their project, Assistant principal Nola White says mentors from Fisher & Paykel Healthcare have held workshops and demonstrations so students understand the mechanics of trapping for pests.

“One of the local rangers has also been in to talk to them about a ranger’s role and

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Students from Hunua School piecing a monitoring tunnel together in preparation for placing in the school grounds.

the work local volunteers do in assisting the rangers in lifting the kokako numbers in the Hunua Ranges.”

Ms White says students have been involved in bird counts and have used tracking tunnels to identify pests in the area.

“More recently they have started trapping pests to start the eradication process.

“As the pest population reduces we are hopeful our bird population will increase and we will see a rise in numbers of some species which have been vulnerable to pests.”

Throughout the monitoring, tracking and trapping processes students have been collecting data to share and compare and, as a result, their mentors have re-visited the school to discuss estimation of numbers, multiple sets of data, exploring methods to draw conclusions and ways of presenting scientific data.

The programme will continue in 2019.

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Vet Talk

What’s going on with my eggs? ciencies. Also check your chook’s backside to make sure she hasn’t traumatised the vent itself.

Dr Sarah Clews BVSc BSc We all long for a countryside cottage with a handful of chooks laying eggs for the family table. But what happens when those eggs start arriving warped, wrinkled or looking generally odd. Are your chooks okay? Are the eggs safe to eat?

As a vet working with a lot of poultry, I encounter this question regularly, so let’s hit up a few of the regular complaints.

n The shells are wrinkly

n The egg shells are getting thinner Dr Sarah Clews

That’s usually okay, a chicken produces the same amount of shell regardless of egg size. So as your chook gets bigger, older, or fatter, her eggs will naturally be larger and hence thinner shells.

Check her dietary calcium and phosphorus levels are correct by feeding a quality layers mix. If you’re not sure about the calcium levels, offer a separate dish of oyster grit or calcium lime flour; chooks are fantastic at supplementing themselves when they’re feeling low! n The yolks are pale The orange colour comes from carotenoids found in plants and grains. If eating grass, corn, carrots or pumpkin, the yolk will be

darker. Feed your hens quality pellets first thing in the morning, before they go outside to gorge on fibre.

Internal parasites can affect the yolk colour so make sure your chooks are dewormed with a quality product at least a couple of times a year. Avoid spot on treatments.

This one IS something to consider. Egg whites are straight protein and the density of the protein is actually what holds the shape of the egg. When a chook is low in protein or losing it somehow, the shell can collapse in on itself and appear wrinkled.

This happens with Infectious Bronchitis (IB), when chooks lose protein through the kidneys.

Egg Drop Syndrome (EDS) can also cause egg quality and production to crash. n She’s stopped laying All birds should go through a moult and stop laying during the cold months; this is normal.

However, if she stops suddenly during summer she may not be eating or drinking enough or may be unwell.

n There’s blood in it A spot of blood is usually nothing to worry about. It would have come from a burst blood vessel somewhere inside the reproductive tract, often just from a large egg or double-yolker. Irritation of the tract can also be due to fungal toxins or vitamin defi-

If needing help with your beloved chook, make sure you consult a vet who is comfortable with birds. Chickens are excellent at hiding their illness until it is too late to help so if you notice ANY behavioural changes in your chook, get her checked out immediately.

pre-holiday CHECKLIST n Have your sheep had their summer shear?

This is crucial to help prevent long, daggy wool from becoming a breeding ground for flies.

Application of products such as Cyrex or CLiKZiN are essential to prevent flystrike from occurring. n Is there enough food in preparation for the anticipated dry summer?

Ensure you have some supplementary feed organised for your animals plus access to fresh, clean water.

Ensure water troughs are cleaned regularly. n Are you using the right drenches for young stock to prevent disease? Parasites such as barber’s pole thrive in summer months. Contact your vet for advice on what products are required. n Are stock protected from facial eczema? Use Face-Guard capsules in January and March.

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Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 13

milKinG new ways to Fence

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lastic Fantastics’ aren’t exactly P.C. in this day and age except, perhaps, in Waiuku where Fonterra has teamed up with innovative Kiwi-owned company, Future Post, to make fence posts from milk containers and other soft plastics.

What’s more, these new style posts could soon be pouring into all parts of our farming regions, providing a new way for farmers to take farm sustainability in a new direction.

Fonterra Brands New Zealand’s (FBNZ) sustainability and environment manager, Larisa Thathiah, says it’s not enough to just recycle anymore.

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New take on stacked veggies V eggie growing in Pukekohe may be on a high but vertical farming – where food is grown indoors in high stacks – isn’t likely to replace Franklin’s traditional market gardens.

President of the Pukekohe Vegetable Growers’ Association, Pravin Hari says in some countries where soil is poor and land limited, vertical growing has a place but despite housing pressures on land in New Zealand he doesn’t see this form of growing having a place here.

“Vertical farming technology isn’t yet at a place where it can replace traditional market gardens and while the likes of cucumber, courgettes and other vegetables are already grown here in glasshouses, I can’t see vertical farming replacing broad acre crops.”

However, one researcher says it is possible vertical farming may supplement the industry if technology makes it economically viable.

As part of a Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, Horticulture NZ environmental policy advisor, Rachel McClung has published a report which looks at alternative cultivation methods.

“Growing cities are reducing access to some of New Zealand’s most productive land for growing fruit and vegetables,” Ms McClung says. “There is some complacency about this because of the misconception that fruit and vegetables can be grown ‘somewhere else’. But a combination of the right soils and climate is necessary.

“With housing taking a lot of our prime soils and climate change impacting regional weather patterns, it seemed a good time to look at alternative growing methods, such as

vertical farming.”

Ms McClung says it is estimated that demand for fruits and vegetables in New Zealand will be 33 percent higher in 2043 than today and, if so, she suggests a new way of thinking may be required.

“I found it interesting that while there are many recognised benefits of vertical farming, with the most prevalent being growing independent of weather conditions, the cost of electricity needed for artificial lighting and temperature control, combined with the high capital investment and operational costs, currently outweigh the benefits.

“The type of crops which can be grown in a vertical farm are limited to the likes of leafy greens and herbs, and vertical farms cannot grow the full range of fruits and vegetables we enjoy in New Zealand.”

Ms McClung surveyed growers to gain insight and says while three respondents had investigated establishing a vertical farm in New Zealand, none had proceeded due to the economics.

Subsequently she concludes that the Government should take a balanced approach to the issue of New Zealand’s diminishing productive land and food security.

Horticulture NZ chief executive, Mike Chapman says the report is in line with industry thinking and the desire to have a food security policy for New Zealand.

“We are future focused and we understand things won’t always be done the same way. The horticulture industry embraces technology and science, but it has to be as a value-add, rather than an expensive experiment,” Mr Chapman says.

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Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 15

Strawberry fields for ever

Uber strawberries sounds like the latest food delivery service but is, in fact, the trendy name for a super-sized fruit grown right here in Franklin.

ANGELA KEMP went in search of the big red.

a

ngela Smith and husband Stuart Campbell are in their fifth season of growing strawberries. Their 16-acre lifestyle block is home to L.C Strawberries so named because it stands in an area of Waiuku known as Lowes Crossing close to the railway line.

It’s a family affair: the couple’s daughter and son, Angela’s parents, her sister and a niece all ‘chip in’ to help with picking and grading during the short but intense strawberry season.

Some 20,000 plants are growing on a one acre strawberry patch. Angela is unsure of the yield but says technically each plant should produce up to a kilo of fruit although the actual crop is somewhat more modest.

Angela began growing strawberries after deciding she needed a change from her retail job in Pukekohe.

“We’d been living here a couple of years and at first thought about growing kiwi fruit but that wasn’t right for us. Then someone suggested strawberries and we liked that because after the initial outlay for the infrastructure, it’s not long before you get back a return, it’s there almost immediately.”

The couple had no real horticultural background before launching their strawberry business. Angela did a two year stint as a parsley picker at nearby herb growers, Made in Heaven, a job she loved.

Stuart still works at Glenbrook Steel Mill.

Australian strawberry needle-scare incident aside, Angela said it had been quite a tough start to the strawberry season which typically runs from October to January. The cold and dry start to spring means the fruit is slower than usual but that hasn’t stopped the locals from buying up the daily harvest within a couple of hours of it being picked.

“It’s been a very rough start even though we started early. I’d say we’re down two thirds on the same time last year. It’s either a feast or a famine and we’re always

16 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

struggling at the start of the season. But then we have to open all day and start selling from a cart in Pukekohe as well when they peak, usually early December.

“We’re open every day and have to get the fruit off as soon as it’s ready because nature is so far against us. There’s fungus, insects that burrow in, blackbirds, roosters … everything going!”

Angela says the family doesn’t eat many strawberries themselves as old habits die hard. ”They were a very luxury product when I was a child and at that time the strawberries were appalling. To be honest for every one that I eat now I tend to think I’m eating my profit.”

The couple grow the Camarosa variety which Angela considers to be the best after trialling six other varieties.

“It fruits beautifully and its flavour and size is up there with the very best.” Which leads us to Angela’s ‘uber’ strawberries.

“We put the very biggest ones in what I call an uber punnet, an idea I came up with myself. I could have called them mother punnets but I thought uber was quick and easy.”

From observation, you certainly don’t get many of the giant berries to a kilo (they’re the size of a nectarine) but then one or two would satisfy the biggest appetite.

The strawberries are picked daily and sold from the packing shed which doubles as a tack room. Only the best are sold while those that are too small or damaged are destined for the kitchen where Angela’s 82-year-old father, Bruce, makes them into jam.

“He uses a recipe from the Edmonds Cook Book but Dad is one of these experimenters and really gets into it. He’s obsessive in making sure people receive the right weight. He probably sells about 20 jars a week in a season. My mum Patricia also helps out with the picking.

They are both a great help but I couldn’t manage without Stu who works really hard in the grading room while juggling this with his job.

“He’s fastidious about quality, has a very critical eye and does heaps of the heavy work around the place that I really just cannot do. I just do the picking, marketing and bossing around!” www.ruralliving.co.nz

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L.c Strawberries are at 81A Morley road, Waiuku.

Check out its Facebook page for opening times and availabilty.

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Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 17

silo system scores on two counts

D

own south – Southland to be exact, a farming couple’s innovative design for a system to prevent falls into their silo has been a winner with WorkSafe and also scored a Gore school free rugby coaching from former All Black, Richard Loe. Donna Holland and her husband Denis developed a simple rope pulley system which opens and closes the silo lid at their Kaiwera dairy farm and entered it into a Worksafe competition encouraging farmers to submit examples of safe farming.

Sector lead agriculture at WorkSafe, Al McCone says the entry is a good solution to an ongoing problem across many farms.

“It shows how farmers can take simple steps to reduce the chances of an accident happening. Entering into silos, either from the ground, or the top, presents a significant risk to farmers, their families and workers.

“It is easy to be engulfed by bulk materials such as grain, sand, flour, fertiliser and sawdust. Bulk materials are not solid and there are often unstable

areas or voids that may collapse under the weight of a person. It’s important farmers manage the risks around silos.”

Donna said she and her husband designed the pulley system to reduce the likelihood of an accident occurring.

“We get a lot of feed delivered into the silo and this system means nobody has to go up to the top. The ropes on the ground make it easy to pull the lid open and close.

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What’s up with D. O’C...

Free trees... can you dig it?

Along with the Minister of Forestry (Shane Jones), Mr O’Connor is convinced numbers relating to a plan to breathe life into regional economies really do add up.

The One Billion Trees Programme allocates $120 million for projects aiming to reduce barriers to tree planting and a further $118 million in grants to landowners and groups to plant trees.

“This is another example of the Coalition Government’s partnership with farmers to help them extract more value from their businesses because we recognise the significant contribution they make to the wellbeing of New Zealand and our economy,” he said.

“The key to any sustainable business is diversification and I encourage those interested to take up these grants which reflect our ambition to work with farmers to get more from what they do.”

For details regarding the scheme (including grant applications) visit mpi. govt.nz/teururakau.

We take a look at some recent adventures of New Zealand’s hardest working Labour Minister of Agriculture (and more), based on reports from the office of Damien O’Connor.

Mycoplasma bovis outbreak.

“Feet on the ground matter and about 30 NAIT compliance staff are in the field or completing training over the next month...

“While they will chiefly offer a hand to those who need help to meet their obligations, they will be penalising those breaking the rules.”

Healthy dose for rural communities The Government will improve the supply of doctors, nurses and midwives working in rural New Zealand says Damien O’Connor, Minister for Rural Communities.

“Rural New Zealand needs to know health services will be there when they need them,” Mr O’Connor says.

“I welcome David Clark’s [Minister of Health] commitment to ensuring we have a sustainable rural health workforce, and will continue to work with him to deliver this.”

Otherwise... fine!

Praise (and laurels) from O’Connor

While shockwaves caused by M.Bovis may have spurred many farmers to play more than just a bit part in biosecurity, some are still flaunting the law, the Minister of Agriculture and Biosecurity says.

“More and more I’m hearing that the dairy and beef industries want those who are blatantly disregarding the rules to be dealt with swiftly and firmly,” Mr O’Connor said.

“While hundreds of warning letters and more than 70 fines have been issued to those breaking the rules, thousands of farmers have upped their game.”

Better use of the National Animal Identification and Tracing (NAIT) scheme and stricter enforcement are crucial to ensuring such outbreaks are kept in check, the Minister believes.

“The Government has been making changes to ensure NAIT is easier to use and a more effective biosecurity tool following its poor performance during the

Although a certain Minister of Immigration may have been pulled through the wringer recently for his failure to stave off a foreign pest, our Minister of Biosecurity has been busy singing the praises of others proven more successful in a similar regard.

“The [2018 New Zealand Biosecurity Awards] acknowledge that our primary sector, tourism, biodiversity and economy are underpinned by a strong biosecurity system and that it takes all 4.7 million of us to protect it now and into the future,” Mr O’Connor says.

“These are the people and organisations that go above and beyond to protect Aotearoa from pests and diseases to ensure our unique way of life is sustained for future generations.”

Environment Southland secured the Supreme Award for its Fiordland Marine Pathway Management Plan. A complete list of winners is available via mpi.govt.nz/ biosecurityawards.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

RSVP re RCEP? While a certain world leader appears to have a penchant for waging trade wars to lift wages (temporarily) on his home patch, others are still inclined towards partnership; recently, Mr O’Connor (as Minister of State for Trade and Export Growth) confirmed he would prefer to be party to the latter.

“RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) is a counterbalance to the rising protectionism which threatens the global rules-based trading system...

“When concluded,[it] will anchor NZ in a regional agreement with half the world’s population and markets that take more than half our total exports,” he said.

All going according to plan, the agreement will see 16 nations (including Australia, China, India, Japan and South Korea) work together to secure improved trade relations to the benefit of all members. The United States is not in on the deal.

Although negotiations continue, accordance regarding the agreement will be struck in 2019, Mr O’Connor expects.

An organic experience A national standard will allay market scepticism with regards to what exactly constitutes organic produce, Mr O’Connor believes.

“A national standard gives consumers confidence in organic claims and businesses certainty to invest and innovate in the growing sector,” he said. “[Currently] we are one of only two of the top 25 organic markets in the world that have voluntary instead of mandatory standards.”

Mr O’Connor expects the standard will be set into law in 2019 and benefit an industry valued at approximately $600 million per year.

“The global demand for organic products is increasing... I’m pleased we can now move ahead with changes so our agribusinesses can extract more value from what they do as soon as possible.”

Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 19

Out of the ‘Woods’…

In a bid to combat the spread of kauri dieback and myrtle rust the Government has increased research funding by $13.75 million over the next three years.

Research, Science and Innovation Minister, Megan Woods says there is a critical need for a surge investment in research that will generate long-term solutions to the spread of both diseases.

“The $13.75 million investment will mean that scientists can begin critically important research into kauri dieback and myrtle rust. It is vital that we get this work underway now to ensure that we combat

these two pathogens and protect these taonga species,” Ms Woods says.

She adds that as a country New Zealand takes pride in its unique species of fauna and flora.

“Both of these diseases are endangering some of our most iconic and culturally significant trees. We recognise the importance of taking action to protect our biodiversity and ensure future generations can enjoy Aotearoa’s unique natural environment.

“We know that addressing these challenges will require more than just

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three years of funding, however this surge investment allows more time to seek additional funding sources in the near future.”

Research funding for myrtle rust will total $5 million over three years with research for kauri dieback receiving $8.75 million. This is on top of previous research funding of $6.9 million for myrtle rust and $4.7 million for kauri dieback allocated in 2018/19.

The Biological Heritage National Science Challenge will receive the funding to undertake the research.

espite alarm bells ringing from the opposition benches, the stink caused by the arrival of 26 live Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs (BMSB) has been kept in check.

In early December, the unwelcome hitchhikers, arrived from overseas through the post in a box of shoes, managing to escape the nostrils of pest detector dogs. If they were to become established in New Zealand, the bugs could prove devastating to our horticulture industry. Fortunately, the parcel’s recipient secured the package and contacted the Ministry for Primary Industries who quickly disposed of them, Federated Farmers biosecurity spokesperson, Karen Williams, says.

“Questions are being asked how [the] bugs got past our border security measures. It’s very scary stuff for our nation’s growers.

But it’s physically not possible for border security staff to open and check every item of mail, especially in the Christmas rush.

“As buyers of large quantities of goods from overseas, farmers appreciate the ability to get these in a timely manner. That is the conundrum we face as importers of goods to support our farming businesses and as the ones who are significantly impacted when an incursion occurs.”

Ms Williams comments followed those of National’s spokesman for biosecurity, Nathan Guy. “MPI only has two sniffer dogs trained for stink bugs and this mail pathway is now creaking with Christmas shopping. The risk of a significant BMSB incursion is now an everyday risk,” he said. “Labour and NZ First talked tough about biosecurity in the election campaign, but they’ve failed to deliver.”As previously reported in Rural Living, BMSB also proved a tricky customer under Mr Guy’s watch as minister. www.ruralliving.co.nz

A dry spring and great start for Briar Bunny

By Ditch Keeling, Coastal Pest Solutions

t

his is the article I intended to write last month but Human Disaster took priority over Animal Disaster.

Rabbits are keeping us really busy right across Auckland at present and its been building steadily over the past two months.

The really dry start to spring gave bunnies an extremely successful start to the breeding season and many of those born two months ago are close to becoming mums and dads themselves.

Rabbit mortality (that is, things that kill them) in the wild is hugely driven by moisture.

Basically rabbits become sick really easily when living in damp conditions, so much so that populations can almost completely disappear during extended wet periods. So, long, wet grass is really bad for rabbits’; short, dry grass is really good.

The biggest moisture-led impact on rabbit numbers is always on the new young and while many rabbits will breed all year up here, something like 60-80% of those born between autumn and spring, in

an average year, will die within just a few weeks.

These moisture-led mortality events are actually the single biggest killer of rabbits (besides me and Goose) and one of the few things that can actually have a controlling impact on rabbit numbers.

Cats, stoats, ferrets, hawks, cars, the formidable calici virus also kill a few rabbits but even combined, they fail to remove enough of the population to halt a constant increase in numbers. Sadly, this is obviously something that happens only in winter.

The really big difference this year appears to be just how many young rabbits survived infancy (due to the perfect conditions) and are now quarter grown.

I’d say they are at least 50% more numerous than previous years, with most nights pulling a majority of these quarter to half grown rabbits and much smaller portions of older adults.

This is bad news for many of you in Karaka, Pukekohe, Waiuku, Waiau Pa, Drury; you guys have a lot of rabbits and this situation won’t improve on its own over the next six months.

If you have rabbits, do some work on them now; it may save a lot of damage over the coming summer.

Removing cover is a really good start.

Burn fire piles before it gets too late; rabbits love living in these and, once rabbits are burrowed in under them, we really struggle to find the entrances for fumigation.

Lifting any other paddock debris, fence posts etc up off the ground a couple of feet is also well worth it – if it’s open and breezy, rabbits wont use it as cover.

The fumigation and shooting we offer will do the job every time, but the success of even this can be limited when there are rabbits living in a fire pile or under 50 posts alongside the shed.

Sometimes, a good tidy-up on its own will remove the only cover being used by rabbits and the problem can disappear.

That’s it for this month. Make the most of your holiday time and don’t hesitate to drop me a line if those rabbits getting away on you.

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Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 21

Santa Parade sunny event Despite forecasts of rain and gusty winds the weather angels ensured a splendid day for the Pukekohe Christmas Parade (and others around the region). Participants and spectators turned out in force, revelling in the festive spirit which Rural Living photographer WAYNE MARTIN made sure he captured for all to see.

22 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

www.ruralliving.co.nz

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 23

Big changes ahead “We will have our traditional petanque tournament which is a Christmas Day ‘must’. “

Reay Neben is a Franklin resident and publisher of Rural Living.

CITY LASS

w

ell, that’s it, the end of an era.

The house is sold and we leave the middle of January.

It is a really strange thought to be leaving lifestyle living after 35 five years.

We have already started packing and it will be easier than last time as we haven’t had that much time to accumulate rubbish. Last time we moved we had a constant flow of big bins and they were filled to the brim regularly.

It is a completely different lifestyle we are going to as we are renting for a while to see if we can cope or the neighbours can cope with us and, of course, Billy. I do worry about the neighbours having pet rabbits or guinea pigs because they won’t be safe from our killer cat – we might be thrown out of suburbia very quickly because of him!

One good thing, he doesn’t hunt birds but that could change. He will need his collar on with my phone number as he does wander. What’s more, he can undo the collar and it doesn’t matter what style I buy, it only lasts around his neck for a day – such a swine of a cat! It was suggested that we leave him behind as he is so happy here but I became so sad thinking about that scenario we quickly put it aside.

Our Waiau Pa friends have also sold their property and have bought down in

Karaka so 2019 will be a complete change for all of us. They will become my Karaka friends.

We all sold our properties in Howick back in 1984 and none of us have returned to suburbia since then so it is a big life change. I must say with this year, and all the issues we have had, I am happy to say ‘bye-bye 2018 and a big hello to 2019’.

Last month I wrote that we had been to the movies to see A Star is Born.and how much we loved it so this month we headed to Pukekohe, with daughter in tow, to see Bohemian Rhapsody.

As a little kid Emma was bought up with Queen playing everywhere – my absolute favourite group in the world. I was told off a few times for singing along with the music but it was just super and, like A Star

is Born I was really sad at the end of the movie. Next time we go out it will be to have a laugh.

Christmas is nearly upon us and this year our daughter and husband, who are based in Dubai, have come home so we will have the whole family here for Christmas Day. The great thing about Christmas is the family.

We will have our traditional petanque tournament which is a Christmas Day ‘must’.

We even present a cup so, you see, it is very serious. I must admit that some members of the family have been known to cheat but so far there have been no disqualifications.

Now, I would like to wish all our readers the most fabulous Christmas and the best of New Year’s – See you in 2019.

Cherry Cooper Lives Local, Sells Local!

M. 021 955 141 Papakura Office 09 298 8029 24 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

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Call me for a chat about your rural / lifestyle needs today!

www.ruralliving.co.nz

textured bob 2018 celebrity haircut Natasha Harris from Alberts Hair Salon talks about new look ‘bobs’.

W 1

Keep your cool Time to rave about seasonal styles from Tantrum! Exuding, a youthful feel brought to life by fun geometric prints and quirky details, the range makes casual dressing all too easy.

The Tantrum girl wants to be ready to take on the day at a moment’s notice while feeling comfortable and cool. Now, she can move from running errands to socialising with girlfriends at a moment’s notice.

Exclusive prints are created in rayon and cotton stretch, using soft navy, blush and white as a colour base. Mixing prints, fluted sleeves and vinyl printing reflects the Tantrum girl’s sense of freedom and a desire to enjoy wardrobe versatility without breaking the bank – styles retail between $79 and $139.

2 1. Paint Strokes Top RRP $129. 2. Summer Rain blouse RRP $119 3. Dolly blouse Blush RRP $129. 4. Dolly blouse Navy RRP $129

hen a handful of celebrities step out with a similar haircut it’s often a sign of hair trends to come. Whether it’s the ever-popular lob, the revamped perm or even baby-bangs, A-listers getting a chop and change means we are taking notes.

The latest haircut to dominate the red carpet is the textured bob—and we have proof. With a number of models, actresses and influencers trialling the style, we’re saying goodbye to shoulder-skimming lengths and hello to something a little edgier – the textured bob and wispy fringe.

This bold hair move seems to have influenced others to take the short hair plunge.

You need only open a magazine or swipe through your Instagram feed to see the evidence. It’s fair to say that we don’t think the textured bob is going anywhere soon. For sure, 2019 will be the year we see clients embracing their edgier self – whether you like your colour to whisper, scream or shout, most likely you will want to partner it with a textured bob.

Your haircut needs to have soft, textured layers cut within the interior to give your hair movement and to look dishevelled. And, quite possibly, you’ll want a fringe. But remember, if you opt for a fringe you need to give your strands that overgrown feeling – aim for peek-a-boo over the eyebrows length and not super short.

Basically, look for the opposite of how you’re mum used to cut it, back in those primary school days!

4

3 www.ruralliving.co.nz

Shop 2/23 Hall St, Pukekohe | Ph 09 238 7576 | www.alberts.co.nz Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 25

Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit ruralliving.co.nz and enter this month's code – RLJAN5634. One entry per person/email address; entries close January 31, 2018. Winner notified by phone or email.

win! CountieS Power PuKeKohe Show Family PaSSeS For more than 130 years, the Franklin A&P Society has been championing our rural community. However, 2019’s Counties Power Pukekohe Show (February 16-17, Pukekohe Showgrounds) looks as if it will be one of the best, featuring traditional favourites, new events, demonstrations and more. For details, including a full schedule, see pukekoheshowgrounds.co.nz. Rural Living has FIVE family passes (for up to two adults & three children) to give away.

Please note: winners must collect tickets from the A&P Society office at the showgrounds on Station Road, Pukekohe, between 9am and 3pm, before Friday, February 15.

win! SKyr ProBiotiC yoghurt VouCherS Ever fancied experiencing Icelandic ‘cultures’? Thanks to the moovers and shakers at Kiwi company, The Collective, we can now do so without travelling much further than the local supermarket. An ancient dairy product made from skimmed milk, Skyr is a thick, creamy probiotic yoghurt. Low in fat and sugar, it is loaded with natural proteins and offers a traditional taste of Iceland. The Collective’s Skyr range is available in 700g tubs (RRP $6.99) in Raspberry Hibiscus, Cardamom, Vanilla and Natural flavours. Rural Living has voucher packs (each including four vouchers) to give away to THREE lucky readers.

win! let’S get loSt win! new reD Seal inFuSionS A great way to awaken your senses and indulge your taste buds is with aromatic Red Seal Infusions – a new range of six premium blends which balance the delicate with the indulgent. With no added sugar or artificial sweeteners, flavour combinations include: tumeric, lemon and manuka honey; peppermint, liquorice and vanilla; matcha, passionfruit and vanilla; tangerine, lemongrass and lavender; white tea, blueberry, fig and coconut and, mango, apricot and jasmine. These delicious fruit ‘teas’ come in environmentallyfriendly pyramid bags designed to be compostable and the good news is Rural Living has a prize pack containing all six flavours plus a reusable ‘Karma Kup’ up for grabs – a refreshing start to the year.

26 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

Sitting on a towel in togs and jandals, the windows down, radio up and (of course) a steak ‘n’ cheese in hand – what a ‘Carpie’ way to enjoy a good old Kiwi summer road trip! A celebration of the way we Aotearoaites like to experience our country, this book is a colourful guide to the real New Zealand, complete with more than just a few yarns thrown in. If Jack Kerouac was a Kiwi, his On the Road experience may have been just a little different!

Nicola McCloy & Jane King: Let’s Get Lost – Great New Zealand Road Trips | RRP $45.00 | Random House NZ www.ruralliving.co.nz

Thirty years on

By Yvonne Vannoort, Sanctuary Dental

T

his year, this month, I’m celebrating 30 years since I graduated from dental school. So what’s changed in that time?

When I started my five year course in dentistry we wore no gloves when we worked in the mouth, AIDS changed that as well as many other sterilisation methods which became much more stringent and are still improving today.

Technology didn’t play much of a part at all back then; our records were all handwritten and X-rays were processed in chemicals.

Today we are computerised and digitised and almost paperless.

We use 3-Dimensional X-rays, make crowns and bridges which are milled on site while you wait and we routinely replace teeth with implants which look and feel like real teeth. We also use lasers routinely.

Now, we use a microscope to help us identify bugs in the mouth which cause gum disease. We have a monitor for clients to use at home overnight to assess sleep issues and we use advanced composites and ceramics to restore teeth.

We also use advanced techniques to sedate and monitor clients when required so they snooze while all necessary treatment is completed...and we don’t remove children’s teeth to straighten them! And that’s just to name a few.

What hasn’t changed? I can honestly say in all of those years, no one day has ever felt like another! It has been such a privilege to help many people overcome challenges in their mouths – sore teeth, sore or bleeding gums, missing teeth, discoloured teeth, worn teeth, infected teeth, crooked teeth, airway issues – and to always keep in mind the context of how these issues influence the health of the rest of your body. The problems haven’t changed over that time.

My mission has been to solve all of those problems and more.... in a gentle, non judgmental and empathetic way which puts people at ease and encourages trust and confidence.

Looking for better ways to do things and solve more problems hasn’t changed. The special training and courses in New Zealand, and worldwide, continue to be attended.

Then there’s the amazing people who are part of my team.

They are as passionate about looking after people as I am – none of what I do can be achieved without them.

So, 30 years on there’s plenty to be thankful for and also look forward to. Thank-you to you for being part of it all.

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Visit our website www.plassurg.co.nz or email reception@plassurg.co.nz KAT5898

The effect of cancer, and cancer treatment, on appearance can really lower spirits. That’s why we started our Look Good Feel Better workshops over 25 years ago. The work we do helps women, men and teens with cancer improve the way making real treatment, on appearance can Thethey effectlook, of cancer, andacancer difference to their confidence, strength and positivity. really lower spirits. That’s why we started our Look Good Feel Better workshops 25 years The support we give is free to anyone with any over cancer, and ago. The work we do helps women, men and teens with cancer improve the way they look, making a real extends right across New Zealand. We rely entirely on donations, difference to their confidence, strength and positivity. the generosity of the cosmetics industry and the work of volunteers The support we give free to anyone with any cancer, and to keep going. By donating to Look Good Feel Better youis help extends across New Zealand. We rely entirely on donations, make a difference to people’s lives when theyright need it most. the generosity of the cosmetics industry and the work of volunteers And every dollar goes directly to running the workshops. to keep going. By donating to Look Good Feel Better you help Please visit our website or find us on Facebook to contribute. make a difference to people’s lives when they need it most.

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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

And every dollar goes directly to running the workshops.

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Please visit our website or find us on Facebook to contribute. www.lgfb.co.nz

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Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 27

Heat’s on for summer!

Potato Frittata with Bresaola and Castello Double Cream with Chilli a s summer sets in for real, the heat is welcome and what better way to warm up party times than with fiery Castello® Double Cream Chilli Cheese, a delicious fusion of the original Castello® Creamy Brie and spicy red jalapeno flakes.

Discover the steady notes of sour cream and vanilla interrupted by a flicker of heat that builds into a fire of flavour.

Castello® Double Cream Chilli pairs beautifully with buttery white wines, tropical mango and offsets the crunch of hazelnut.

Let your tastebuds explore imaginative ways of incorporating Castello® Double Cream Chilli (RRP $11.769) into recipes.

Available at participating supermarkets nationwide, why not try this recipe using this delicious NEW cheese variety?

2 servings

ingreDientS ◆ 6 eggs ◆ 1 onion ◆ 1 Tbsp oil ◆ 8 slices of bresaola ◆ 3 or 4 sprigs of thyme ◆ 100gm Castello Double Cream with Chilli ◆ Salt and pepper

methoD

Thinly slice the onions. Sauté the onions in oil for 3-4 minutes until they are clear.

Whisk the eggs slightly. Season to taste with salt, pepper and thyme then add to pan. Cook for a couple of minutes until the egg begins to set. Add slices of bresaola and Castello Double Cream with Chilli.

Bake at 180°C until firm, approx 10 mins.

Serve the frittata hot or warm and with a lovely green salad.

Fiesta Guacamole For more than 150 years Tabasco has been the life of the party while dishing up the spices of life, as this dishy little recipe suggests.

ingreDientS ◆ 3 medium avocados, halved & pitted (approx 625g) ◆ 3 Tbsp fresh lime juice ◆ 1 (57ml) bottle Tabasco Green Sauce ◆ 15g chopped, fresh coriander ◆ 2 Tbsp finely chopped onion ◆ 1 clove garlic, finely chopped ◆ 3 medium plum tomatoes, diced (approx 250g) ◆ Salt, to taste 28 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

methoD Scoop avocado pulp from shells into a medium-sized bowl and mash with a fork, leaving some chunks. Gently stir in fresh lime juice, Tabasco Green Sauce, cilantro, onion, garlic, tomatoes and salt.

Serve with tortilla chips and... enjoy! www.ruralliving.co.nz

szimpla gastro bar

with Banana anD ChoColate – BarBeCue Style!

You read right! There aren’t many breakfast and dessert recipes that you can prepare on the barbecue, but the whole family is going to love this one.

Substitute the chocolate hazelnut spread for peanut butter if you want to make a version that’s not quite as sweet and that’s more sustaining. For best results, your grill should have a cover and a high self

ingreDientS (Serves 4) ◆ 8 slices bread ◆ 6-8 Tbsp chocolate hazelnut spread (Nutella gives great results) ◆ 4 ripe bananas, cut in 1cm slices ◆ 4 medium eggs ◆ 1 cup chocolate milk ◆ 2 Tbsp sugar ◆ 1 tsp vanilla extract ◆ Some cooking oil for the grill ◆ Icing sugar for garnish

methoD Thoroughly brush grill with oil before heating it to medium. Lightly beat together eggs, milk, sugar and vanilla extract. Spread Nutella (or brand of your choice) on bread slices.

Place four slices of bread on large plate, Nutella side up. Place banana slices on Nutella, then add other slices of bread, Nutella side down, to form sandwiches.

Pour beaten eggs over sandwiches. Let stand a few minutes, then turn to soak other side.

Gently place sandwiches on grill and close lid. Be careful not to burn them! If necessary, put sandwiches on top shelf, at the sides, where it’s not as hot.

Bake for 4 to 6 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Remove from heat and sprinkle with icing sugar. www.ruralliving.co.nz

We recommend booking – ph 09 215 1220 or email info@szimpla.co.nz 2 Leonard Isitt Drive, Auckland JU0457-v2

aTEsAM Merry FRCOMhTHriEsREtm D SHED SUNDAY MARKETS On holiday from December 24, reopen Friday, January 4, 2019

RED SHED PALAZZO WINNER Rural Cafe of the Year 2016 & 2017. 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.

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

Red Shed

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French toast

Acclaimed retro retreat in the heart of Auckland Airport’s shopping precinct – Szimpla Gastro Bar – is dishing up delicious food, quality craft beer & good old Kiwi hospitality.

We have options for large group bookings from 20-80 people with canapes and set menus available. Consider us for your next birthday venue, engagement function or a catch up with friends before heading to the airport. Brunch from 10am every weekend alongside our expansive all day menu including yummy veggie and gluten free options.

Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 29

30 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

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Indoor outdoor harmony

T

he modern householder doesn’t need to be told that outdoor living has become more than just a paved courtyard or timber deck with the addition of a pine barbecue table.

These days indoor living flows effortlessly to the outdoors where ‘al fresco rooms’ are often sumptuously furnished and may include some type of roofing and or side curtains to make them useable even in poor weather.

A place to relax and entertain, importance is also placed on comfortable, attractive outdoor furniture and for those who prefer upholstered appeal then Warwick’s Mauritius collection ensures indoor and outdoor living spaces are synchronised with ease. A versatile range which is contemporary yet timeless, Mauritius offers bold tribal patterns which will enhance the mood of any area. Whether you want earthy and sophisticated or bright and vibrant, this statement collection is designed to reflect the individual’s unique sense of style with a strong selection of mix and match themes.

Named for the Indian Ocean island nation of Mauritius, which is known for its beaches, lagoons and reefs, this collection is an easy fit with the Kiwi way of life and New Zealand’s own Pacific mood.

Offering colours which include calming neutrals such as pewter, sand and stone through to seashell shades of lobster or melon as well as lively tones of cobalt, ocean, palm and more, the Mauritius collection exudes casual elegance.

Available through Kevens Curtains, Pukekohe or Warwick showrooms.

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Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 31

Illustrations taken from the book mrs wigglesworth gets the milk – Story by John Carr and Illustrations Jennifer Cooper, just one in the series.

new tonGues For ‘learn to reaD’ booKs

t

here are no green alligators and long-necked geese, humptybacked camels or some chimpanzees but there are cats and dogs, chickens too, sheep, goats, horses and cows just to name a few of the rescued animals featured in the SPCA’s innovative learn-to-read storybook collections.

For the past two years these books have been part of the organisation’s free in-school programme but until now have all been printed in English. That’s changed.

For the first time, the books have been translated into Te Reo Maori, Gagana Samoa, Lea Faka-Tonga and Mandarin Chinese.

Specifically designed for New Zealand classrooms, nevertheless many a family has them in the home too. There are two collections, the first featuring six real-life SPCA companion animal rescue stories and the second, featuring six farm animal rescue stories.

Each story is based on a real-life animal rescue from the SPCA, and contains

messages about animal care, animal welfare, and tips for families on how to be responsible pet owners.

Recently, 25,992 printed Te Reo books were sent to more than 2000 primary schools free of charge. The Gagana Samoa, Lea Faka-Tonga and Mandarin Chinese editions are available to download from SPCA’s online teachers’ portal.

The SPCA believes that a vital way to improve animal welfare in New Zealand is by educating and changing the minds and hearts of the next generation, which is why it launched its nationwide SPCA education programme in 2016.

This took years of careful developing and planning by a dedicated education team, who worked closely with education leaders around the country to create a programme fit for classrooms and aligned with the New Zealand curriculum.

The programme is multi-faceted and includes classroom resources, teaching plans linked to the New Zealand curriculum and a teachers’ and students’ online portal.

Viewings welcome by appointment

751 Clevedon-Kawakawa Rd, Clevedon Phone 027 222 0307 info@fairfieldpetlodge.nz - www.fairfieldpetlodge.nz 32 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

JB’s May your homes be filled with Laughter, Love & Peace for the Christmas season.

Thank you to all our customers over the past year.

We will be closed from 1pm, Friday 21st December and re-open Monday 7th January 2019.

Have a happy, safe holiday and we look forward to seeing you in the New Year

CD2096

• Pet boarding • Doggy day care Monday to Friday • Dog training • Pet taxi available • Family owned and operated • The Lodge is situated over five stunning hectares

The resource has been created by teachers for teachers and teaches children animal welfare in a practical, real life way.

Examples include students using maths to calculate the costs of owning a pet and debating issues such as the importance of de-sexing pets. The education programme is free to schools – all they need do is register online.

Children and their families can access resources to support the books at the SPCA Kids’ Portal: www.kids.spcaeducation.org.nz Teachers can register for free, curriculum-aligned resources at the SPCA Teachers’ Portal: www.teachers.spcaeducation.org.nz

153b Manukau Rd, Pukekohe | 09 238 2954 pukekohe@flooringxtra.co.nz Monday-Friday 8.30am-5pm | Saturday 9am-1pm KAT6346

www.ruralliving.co.nz

the tree hut

gumBoot StomP After causing a ‘splash’ with her book Stuck in Poo, What to do?, Samantha Laugesen is back with a much-anticipated sequel. If it weren’t for Luke the Pook’s gumboots, where would he be? Well, we don’t really need to spell that out but, this foot stomping celebration of a tried and true Kiwi favourite sure does! Classic Kiwi humour abounds in this book – suitable for children aged three and up as well as big kids who (arguably) never really grew up at all.

Samantha Laugesen (illustrated by Kat Merewether): Gumboot Stomp | RRP $20| Luke the Pook Press

new ZealanD’S BaCKyarD BeaStS While many Kiwi kids would be bound to list ‘Dad’ at the top of their list of backyard beasts, there are plenty more beings in all corners of our gardens to examine. In this book, Weta Digital texture artist, Ned Barraud, illustrates creatures great (although primarily small), helping young ones discover a rich and diverse ecosystems which can (quite literally) exist on our own doorsteps.

Ned Barraud: New Zealand’s Backyard Beasts | RRP $29.99 (hardback), $19.99 (paperback) | Potton & Burton

Change can be scary but it is, often, inevitable.

While some more conservative adults might struggle against change, as this book shows, acceptance is the first step towards progression.

When young Jack has to move from the countryside to the city, he can’t take his loved tree hut with him. How will he adapt? Find out by reading this delightful tale.

Joy H. Davidson (illustrated by Nina Kudinova): The Tree Hut | RRP $19.99 | DHD Publishing

titan the truCK Ideal for youngsters fascinated by all things motordrive, this book follows the adventures of a lovable truck named Titan.

Complete with a downloadable musical track, this read-along and singalong story (effectively) proves that whistling while we work can help us see even the most titanic of tasks in perspective.

Joy H. Davidson (illustrated by Scott Tulloch): Titan the Truck | RRP $21.99 | DHD Publishing

animalS oF aotearoa The wonders of the natural world abound in this book by award-winning children’s writer, Gillian Candler. Documenting various species (some of which are unique to our shores), this book is a compendium for children who are curious about New Zealand’s wildlife.

Complete with activities designed to help conserve these treasures, as well as illustrations

by Ned Barraud, Animals of Aotearoa is ideally suited to readers aged 4-8.

Gillian Candler: Animals of Aotearoa | RRP $34.99 | Potton & Burton www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 33

Pebbled gardens rock!

Create decorative spaces with minimum effort.

Talk to our friendly Central Landscape Supplies team at Drury about all your pebbled garden needs.

Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 7am - 5pm, Saturday: 8am - 4pm, Sunday: 9am - 1pm 34 — Rural Living — December/January 2019 www.centrallandscapes.co.nz

www.ruralliving.co.nz Auckland • 09 294 8410 • 141 Great South Rd, Drury, KAT5290-v14

Cran-tastic Christmas Some jandal-wearing, Kiwi barbecue pilots might prefer to serve a little lamb for Christmas, but the traditionalists amongst us still mirror customs shared in the Northern Hemisphere. So, this month we take a look at one of the most often overlooked stars of the festive feast.

w

hen it comes to Christmas, the bird might be the word but it’s all too plain without the ‘crane-berry’!

From the Vaccinium genus, cranberries grow on evergreen shrubs or trailing vines. Characterised by their wiry stems, deep pink flowers, and, of course, their luscious red berries, the shrubs can grow up to 20cm in height and two metres in length.

The name ‘cranberry’ is thought to have originated from them being a favourite food of cranes, or because the flowers and stems resemble the head of this bird.

Natives of northern hemisphere bog land, cranberry shrubs naturally thrive in acidic, wet soil. They prefer nutrient-poor soil, full sun and moderate warmth; although, as hardy little fruits, cranberries can withstand quite low or high temperatures.

Little care is required to grow cranberries successfully aside from reducing tangled growth, careful watering during warmer months and light weeding as required.

Full of vitamin C and antioxidants, as well as other important nutrients including vitamin A and B, calcium, phosphorous and iron, cranberries are thought to help prevent heart disease, cancer and a wide range of other common diseases.

American cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) are tart little berries but look fabulous in cooking as they have such a vibrant colour. A highly popular crop in North America, they are often dried or used in such edibles as sauces, jams and juices.

Central’s Tips January 2019

It’s the new year and the summer veggie garden is in full swing with lettuce, cucumber, courgette, beans, peas, lettuces, radish, silverbeet all ready to harvest. It’s an important time to make sure your plants are getting lots of water to ensure a bountiful February as well.

In the Veggie Patch • Plant leeks – punnets or newspaper-wrapped seedlings contain lots of individual leek plants, so you can easily start a couple rows – remember to plant them in a trench or create 5cm deep holes to drop them into. Trim off the tops. Don’t fill the hole with soil, it will gradually fill in, as the leek grows

• Growing a good bean crop – keeping them well staked up and watered helps production.

• Don’t give up if your eggplants aren’t forming but try hand pollination with a small soft paint or make-up brush or cotton bud

• Plant new lettuce regularly to ensure consistent harvesting and yummy fresh salads

• Sweetcorn - is ready for picking when the end tassels become brown and dry

The rest of the Garden • Remove weeds before they set seed – a good clean-up while you’ve got some holiday time

• January flowers –Pretty shrubs worth adding to your garden are fragrant mock orange (philadelphus), hibiscus and shade lovers such as hydrangeas and fuchsias

• Water regularly – in these hot months it’s

KAT5290A-v14

important to make sure the gardens get a deep water to keep them vibrant and healthy

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 35

The Countryside Begins with Townsend...

Rain …

After Christmas gather the kids, some card, coloured pencils and glitter and encourage them to make fun thank you cards to friends and family who gave them Christmas presents.

Do some research on your local libraries, museums, and galleries as they’ll often have a range of holiday activities on offer, often for only a small fee.

Or shine ...

New Zealand has an ever-growing number of cycleways and bike trails of different lengths and difficulty levels that are suitable for families. Take to Google to find some great ones near you.

Make salt dough Christmas decorations.

Or after Christmas, any kind of creative design. Here’s an easy recipe if you need one.

• 1 cup salt • 2 cups of flour • ¾ cup of water Mix the salt and flour together in a large bowl. Gradually stir in the water and mix until it begins to form a dough. If you want add in a few drops of food colouring and / or glitter. Turn out onto a bench and knead with your hands until the dough is smooth and completely combined.

Once the masterpieces are made (leaving a hole to thread through ribbon if they’re for the Christmas tree) preheat the oven to 180C. Baking times will depend on the thickness of the dough – they should be dry. Leave to cool and, if you’ve left your dough plain you can paint them at this point. Unbaked salt dough can also be stored in air tight container for a few days.

Movie days. Movie get togethers can be a lot cheaper thanks to online providers such as Netflix. Make some home-made healthy popcorn and settle the kids and some friends down in front of some family friendly classics. You can even go all out and theme it with some face-painting and costumes.

Another old school classic – create a blanket teepee with a bunch of blankets and chairs and fill it full of comfy cushions and pillows. It can make a great makeshift theatre for the movie days – or dust off some jigsaw puzzles and board games.

Exploring regional parks can be a great way to discover something new in your local area. Most contain walking trails, campsites, beaches, play grounds, dog walks, and / or historic sites. The local council website should be able to find good ones nearby.

Jo-Ann Day-Townsend 021 1696 056 jo-ann.day-townsend@harcourts.co.nz www.joanndaytownsend.co.nz Port Realty Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

For the price of a few seeds and some potting mix, you can introduce your kids to the joys of growing flowers and vegetables. The Franklin A and P show is coming up in February – get the kids on board and get them growing entries for it.

Create a teepee in the back garden with a few garden stakes and an old sheet.

Waiuku, 162 Parakau Road

Try making and flying your own kites.

YouTube is a great place to start for easy kite designs and the materials required are often as simple as some tape, a sheet of polythene (or a large plastic rubbish bag!), sticks of dowel and some sturdy string.

Waiuku, 242/246 Hull Road

Create your own treasure hunt with your smartphone GPS. There are a number of apps and websites that will help you and the find hidden treasures using the GPS features on your phone.

Whatever you do this festive season remember to be safe and look after each other!

36 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

Waiuku, Lot 50 Parakau Road www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5307-v13

School holidays are coming and the festive Season is upon us.! It’s a time of excitement for the kids and adults alike– and sometimes a degree of stress for parents, particularly when the inevitable rainy days arrive. Here are a few quick ideas for keeping the kids amused that shouldn’t break the bank.

rts lly ou 0 ona rc 1 i Ha P nat TOgent la ra Ru

Activity ideas for the festive season

MAGICAL SEASON

By Kylie Bosanac, Nick Bosanac Builders

T

his is the season beloved of the year – it’s a little brighter, a little warmer, a little more cheery. Do you feel it?

Ever the idealist, I do.

I have to work at it but in my opinion, the magic of the season doesn’t just happen, it’s something you have to create; something you share, spread around and keep alive as long as you can, cherishing each drop. (Totally the idealist huh?)

Sometimes I think we are in the business of making magic happen. Sometimes, I think we forget that. But we make a living by taking ideas, notions, notes and drawings and turning them into standing, working, livable homes.

Along the way we use some amazing trades. We always say to our clients that these are the people we would use to build our own homes. This year, they again proved to be just that – amazing.

In sharing our journey with you, you’ll know, the magic started as a notion and, through lots of effort, blood, sweat, tears, laughter, enjoyment and more, together we transformed this notion into a wonderful showhome that we all are so proud of.

The opening of our Paerata Rise showhome was, indeed, magic! So if you didn’t get a chance to pop down, please do, we’d love to show you around our new neck of the woods!

On the other hand, 2018 has been the biggest, most difficult year yet as we stretched, stumbled, grew and succeeded in meeting our goals.

We moved our office to our new showhome, completed some amazing homes and buildings for wonderful people in our community and grew our staff to help us better maintain our guiding principle of Building Beautiful Futures.

Despite the ups and downs, it’s hard not to reflect on the magic of those special moments which made up our year.

This is what we want for all our clients, and for you – a bit of magic. At this time, especially, we wish you magic at this very moment. Make time for more magic, to be merry and bright with those who matter most.

So, from the carpenters of Nick Bosanac Builders, we thank our tradies and clients, suppliers and supporters. We are truly grateful for your ongoing support. Without your trust in us, we simply could not do what we do. We are honoured to know and serve you. Merry Christmas!

Bring the outside in First Windows & Doors have a number of solutions from bi-fold through to sliding doors to make the most of your outdoor space.

PH 09 238 8828 franklinfirst.co.nz KAT5305

BUILT ON A SOLID PAST, SHAPING THE FUTURE

Building and transporting homes for 80 years: Rural Homes / Holiday Homes / Lifestyle Homes / Investment Properties

We Build Beautiful Homes.

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021 989 636

nick@bosanacbuilders.co.nz

As part of our 80 Year Celebrations we would love to invite you to share your stories, memories and experiences relating to the Hay family and the legacy of Keith Hay Homes.

Head to www.keithhayhomes.co.nz and submit your story.

KAT5302

Bring us your plans, or let us design you something unique.

We take pride in assuring that all work is of the highest quality.

Tell us your Keith Hay Homes Story

CR0184

Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 37

It’s a spin thing...

One good turn deserves another (and another and another and so on) if some of the world’s best spin bowlers are setting the agenda. However, the key to ensuring more Black Caps’ batsmen are able to front up and clock up runs in future could depend as much on Kiwi groundsmen as players. JON RAWLINSON explains.

s

pin was king in the UAE recently as the Black Caps secured a first test series win against Pakistan abroad in almost half a century. However, Pakistan’s slower bowlers – especially Yasir Shah, who claimed an astonishing 29 series wicket haul – once again, saw our batsmen struggle.

“It’s always difficult to win anywhere overseas,” former Pukekohe local and ex-Black Cap seamer, Simon Doull, confirms. “The game’s become about winning at home and doing the best you can abroad.”

During the remainder of the ‘subcontinent summer’, home decks should be prepared to offer turn to visiting Sri Lankan, Indian and Bangladeshi spinners (as well as our own), providing our batsmen with valuable practice in fending off spin in the process, he believes.

“Most of our pitches are very ‘vanilla’; they don’t break up or turn and therefore spinners aren’t able to play as big a part in a game as they could,” the Sky TV commentator says.

“We simply have to have more wickets that turn in New Zealand.”

The 2-1 Pakistan test series victory in the UAE followed a sobering welcome for new Black Caps’ coach, Garry Stead, as the Black Caps crashed in the limited overs’ outings, winning just one from four.

And yet, even on foreign soil, where there was a Will (or Williamson) there was a way during the tests – New Zealand’s own spinners prove vital with Will Somerville taking seven wickets in the decider and Ajaz Patel 13 for the series overall.

Captain Kane Williamson proved more than capable of staving off the Pakistani spinners (Henry Nicholls also showing promise) but the key to ensuring the Black Caps don’t have to wait decades to claim another such famous series victory could lie in taking more chances with wickets at home.

Simon contends his former domestic outfit, Northern Districts, is (ironically) setting the ‘pace’ in this regard.

“Because ND has such [spin] bowlers as Mitch Santner, Ish Sodhi, and Jono Boult, frequently, Hamilton pitches do turn. But, often enough when they do, teams complain!

Playing spin is an art and something that needs to be developed [to ensure] our batsmen are better prepared to face it further down the track.”

From December 17 until March 16, the Black Caps will likely take pride in shining under the New Zealand sun but, unless our up-and-coming batsmen can undertake a virtual ‘revolution’ in approach, many more falls abroad could follow.

“Most of our pitches are very ‘vanilla’; they don’t break up or turn and therefore spinners aren’t able to play as big a part in a game as they could... We simply have to have more wickets that turn in New Zealand.”

38 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

Photo Wayne Martin www.ruralliving.co.nz

Year ends on strong note

By Darren Szaszy, Barfoot & thompson, Pukekohe

t

he Auckland housing market is ending the calendar year strongly with sales numbers in November their highest in six months and with the average price at its highest in 12 months according to Barfoot & Thompson director, Kiri Barfoot.

Reflecting on latest real estate sales figures she says trading activity increased strongly in October and November’s sales built on that momentum.

“The average sales price for the month at $937,792 is the highest it has been since December 2017 and is $24,000 higher than it was in November last year.

Combined with sales for the month of 941, (the highest they have been in a month since May) you have a balanced and stable housing market.

“Buyers and sellers are putting speculation around future trading conditions aside and acting with confidence at current market prices.”

The median price for the month at $850,750 is down 1.1 percent on October’s median price but is up nearly 1 percent on the average median price for the past three months and is 2.5 percent higher than it was at this time last year.

“New listings for the month at 1606 were down on what is traditionally one of the stronger months for listing but they were still excellent considering the record setting number of listings in October,” Ms Barfoot says.

“At month end we had 4853 properties on our books, right in line with those at the end of October and at the end of November last year. With stable prices and a solid number of properties to choose from we anticipate trading in the run into Christmas will be strong.”

During November, 11 percent of all sales were properties that sold for under $500,000, highlighting the growing attraction of apartments and town houses now reaching the market. At the end of last year, sales in this price bracket were rapidly diminishing.

“This emphasises the growing opportunities for first time and modest income families to enter the housing market,” says Ms Barfoot.

“With the upcoming relaxation by the Reserve Bank on the level of mortgage deposit rates and the trading banks continuing to offer record low mortgage lending rates, the opportunities for first time buyers to enter the market have rarely been better in the past decade.”

At the other end of the market, she adds properties in the $1 million plus bracket continued to sell well, representing just over a third of all property sales in the month. A little over 6 percent of all sales in the month fetched more than $2 million.

As in October, November lifestyle and rural sales did not match the uplift in activity seen in the residential market.

Sales and prices were steady but without matching the closing rate of those being achieved in the residential market.

Lifestyle property sales in the Pukekohe region priced in the $1 million to $1.5 million bracket were a bright spot in this market.

The overall sales volumes in the Franklin area are down from 34 sales November 2017 to 26 sales for the same period this year. A number of factors have probably contributed and one being a lower number of listing’s available, compared to last year.

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40 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

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www.wagenerstoves.co.nz Rural Living — December/January 2019 — 41

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EK PER WE

T60 DOUBLE CAB - 10in Touchscreen Entertainment System. Lane Departure Warning. Reverse Camera. Huge Range of Accessories. 3,000kg Tow Rating.

2.8 Turbo Diesel. Manual or Automatic. 4WD. SINGLE CAB ALSO AVAILABLE. 5 YEAR WARRANTY. 5 STAR ANCAP SAFETY RATING.

LDV T60 DOUBLE CAB FROM

$28,990 (+GST)

YOU CAN OWN A BRAND NEW LDV VEHICLE. VISIT US TODAY AND WE WILL SHOW YOU HOW EASY IT CAN BE.

Auckland Supersite Phone: 09 295 1759 162 Great South Road, Takanini 42 — Rural Living — December/January 2019

www.ruralliving.co.nz

*Conditions apply. Available through LDV Finance for business customers only. Normal lending criteria, terms and conditions, establishment fee and On Road Costs apply. This LDV Finance offer is available on new 2018 LDV D90, G10, V80 and T60 vehicles until 30th November 2018. Weekly repayment amounts shown in the examples above are based on inclusion of a $3,500 minimum trade-in amount, 9.95% interest annum fixed for the term of the loan, a 3 year loan term, the GST component of the loan being repaid by the borrower in month 3 and a balloon repayment (in the repayment examples shown above, the amount of the balloon repayment will be as follows for each vehicle type: D90 - $16,500, G10 - $12,000, V80 - $14,800, T60 - $14,000). Offer not available in conjunction with other offers.

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Plus 6 months Defer red Pay ments and FREE 20 inc h Alloy Wheel Upgr ade.

Special Finance Rate On Rexton Sport Diesel 4x4 7 Seater Only

$49,990 +ORC

Takanini SsangYong | Call today Phone: 09 295 1660 170 Great South Road, Takanini *This finance offer is available on new SsangYong Rexton Sport Diesel 4WD until 31st December 2018 through UDC Finance. This offer requires a 10% deposit and nil balloon payment, and is available on repayment terms up to 36 months, at an interest rate of 3.9% p.a. fixed for the term of the loan. A $169 establishment fee, a $250 dealer fee and a PPSR fee of $10.35 each apply. Deferring the first 6 months of loan repayments means that you must still repay the full amount of the loan. The total loan repayments will be spread over the remaining term of the loan. Interest is applied to the whole loan and charged from the beginning of theLiving term, including during the six months’ deferred repayment period. www.ruralliving.co.nz Rural — December/January 2019 — 43 Finance and promotional terms are subject to normal lending criteria and terms and conditions apply to any loan.

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

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44 — Rural Living — December/January 2019