Rural Living October-November 2018

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ruralliving.co.nz

October/November 2018

Fright night

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MUSHROOMS Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 1

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Brought to you by members of Franklin’s

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

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OCTOBER/NOVEMBER ■HALLOWEEN Run For Your Freak’n Life – Halloween Edition October 27, from 12pm, Spookers, 833 Kingseat Rd, Karaka If they are actually coming for you (Barbara) there is only one thing to do...

Run For Your Freak’n Life! A special Halloween edition of our favourite local ‘scream park’s’ infamous obstacle course, this event is sure to see participants outwit and outrun zombies galore... or die trying! See spookers.co.nz for details.

■COUNTRY CALENDAR Waikato A&P Show October 26-28, 9am-4pm, Claudelands Arena, Brooklyn Rd, Hamilton It may not be the biggest city in the country but, when it comes to country matters, it’s fair to say that Hamilton lays on quite a show. See waikatoaandp.co.nz.

Hamilton Gardens Scarecrow Festival November 4, 11am-3pm, Hamilton Gardens, Hungerford Cres, Hamilton There will be more than just a few crafty types with something to crow about once the judges have deliberated at this fest’. Offering a fun, family day out, the Hamilton Gardens Scarecrow Festival is not... for the birds! Details via hamiltongardens.co.nz.

Young Horticulturist of the Year – Grand Final practical day November 7, PIA Events Centre, 59 Ward St, Pukekohe From fruit and veggie growers to budding viticulturists and even florists, greenfingered young professionals from various growing industries compete each year for overall honours at Young Horticulturist of

the Year. Who will take out top spot this year? Head down to the PIA hall to find out! For more, younghort.co.nz.

Clevedon A&P Show November 17-18, 9am-5pm, 107 Monument Rd, Clevedon Leave it to Clevedon to present one of the best A&P shows Auckland has to offer! With everything from demonstrations and competitions – including the Young Farmer of the Year district & skills’ day – to rural sports, rides, stalls and much more, this show proves that the Super City’s country regions are as vibrant as ever. Visit clevedonshow. co.nz for more information.

■HOME & GARDEN Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble November 10-11, from Franklin Hospice, 29 Hall St, Pukekohe Even ordinary work-a-day Kiwis can often set aside space to grow glorious gardens.

Sponsored by Barfoot & Thompson.

This annual event – which supports the good work of Franklin Hospice – features a wide range of gardens from urban backyards to sprawling lifestyle blocks.

See franklinhospice.org.nz for details.

South Auckland Writers Festival October 26-27, various locations, Mangere East Words change worlds. Whether as part of broad strokes used to grapple with the human condition or intimate phraseology embracing fleeting, individual emotions, words are the tools we use to comprehend existence itself.

This festival sees writers share their skills.

Full programme, see wordswillwork.nz.

Hobbiton Beer Festival November 3, 5.40-10.30pm, Hobbiton Movie Set (aka The Shire), 501 Buckland Rd, Matamata Calling all Hobbits, dwarves, elves and wizards, it’s time to set out on a journey of LOR proportions, heading down to The Shire to ring in the Hobbiton Beer Fest’.

From Hobbit-sized canapés to ale by the flagon-full at The Green Dragon, visitors are assured of an other-worldly experience.

For more, see hobbitontours.com.

Green Living Show November 3-4, ASB Showgrounds, 217 Greenlane West, Epsom Once upon a time, living green meant

Waiuku Festival of Flowers – A Crafty Affair November 16-17, 10am-5pm, St Andrews Centre, 85 Queen St, Waiuku In addition to roses and blooms of many other names, this year’s fest’ features a market amid its flowers. With a variety of wares on offer – from wood-art, felting, jewellery, pottery, to quilting, embroidery and more, this event also includes demonstrations. For more see facebook. com/waiukufestivalofflowers.

Craig

Trudy

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Stephanie

021 998 605

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027 238 6660

027 527 0094

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2 — Rural Living — October/November Moore2018 McCardle Alderlieste Ashby Boyce

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■ EXPOS & FESTIVALS

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Willsonwww.ruralliving.co.nz Szaszy

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

giving up many of the creature comforts modern living affords. However, as this expo is set to prove, homes built to run in harmony with our environment can be more mansion than mud hut! Whether building or refitting a home, this event is a must-see with products and services to improve our homes, plus tips for a healthier lifestyle. See organicexpo.co.nz.

Blast to the Past November 10 (or 11, in case of rain), 6-9pm, Waiuku Rugby Park, King St, Waiuku It seems like just last year that Waiuku hosted it’s famous Blast to the Past and it’s back on again! With family fun, food, entertainment - including fireworks, of course - and more on offer, this event sees the good folk from Franklin’s ‘wild west’ kick up their heels. waiukutown. co.nz for more information.

Chicks n Giggles October 27, 9.30am-4pm, PIA Event Centre, 57 Ward St, Pukekohe Whether you enjoy a little ‘girl time’ or simply relish the opportunity to leave the ‘man of the house’ at home, Girls n Giggles could be the perfect day out for you! Featuring a wide range of exhibitors, this expo covers everything from fashion, health and beauty to wine and cocktails all under one roof, with proceeds set to assist the sterling work of the good folk at Shine. More information via nowevents. co.nz or facebook.com/noweventsnz.

■ MUSICALS, MUSIC, THEATRE & DANCE Dance Force Grad Tour November 9, from 7pm, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Dr, Papakura Taking that important ‘next step up’ is vital in any industry but when you’re dancing for a living you’d best ensure your best foot is placed (with grace) forward. An entertaining and (at times)

Scott

Steve

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www.ruralliving.co.nz Ball McElhinney

ITM Auckland SuperSprint November 2-4, Pukekohe Park Raceway, 222 -250 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe Life is a marathon, so take your time in heading to Pukekohe Park for this year’s SuperSprint – missing the start due to being pulled over for speeding along the way isn’t ideal! With the smell of fuel and burnt rubber assailing their nostrils, fans will be in their element as our summer of fast cars begins in earnest. See supercars. com/auckland.

barely believable show is expected as some of Australasia’s most talented dancers take to the stage. For details see hawkinstheatre.co.nz.

Pop-up Globe Theatre November 9 – April 14, Pop-up Globe Theatre, The Shakespeare Gardens, Ellerslie Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave, Ellerslie If you enjoy nice, safe, lovely little stories, pick up a pop-up book; however, if tales of vengeance, deceit, blood and abuse of power are more your speed, race on over to Ellerslie Racecourse this spring, summer or autumn to take your seat at the Pop-up Globe Theatre!

Kicking off with one of the bard’s most commonly ‘re-imagined’ comedies, The Taming of the Shrew this season also features Richard III, Hamlet and Measure for Measure. For a full schedule, see popupglobe.co.nz.

■ SPORT, FITNESS, MOTORING & RACING Tough Mudder NZ November 3-4, 10am-5pm, Hampton Downs Motor Sport Park, Hampton Downs Rd, Te Kauwhata

Debbie

Nicola

020 438 5958

021 247 6472

Courtney McPherson

Kevin

Lim

027 497 8223

Fail to front up during this challenge and your name could well be... mud. With 9 and 18km courses featuring plenty of obstacles, this mid run is not for the faint of heart or those who prefer to ‘show a clean pair of heels’ for that matter. For more see toughmudder.co.nz.

OMF Melbourne Cup Day November 6, from 11am, Ellerslie Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave, Remuera Why fly all the way across the ditch when Ellerslie can deliver all the fun of the Melbourne Cup so much closer to home? In addition to featuring the main event on one of the Super City’s most super screens, Auckland’s home of thoroughbred racing has a fantastic lineup of entertainment behind its own gates. See ellerslie.co.nz/melbourne-cup-day.

Port Waikato Challenge November 17, 9am-2pm, Maraetai Bay, Maunsell Rd, Port Waikato Featuring 8km (run or walk) and 16km running events, this challenge showcases one of the most picturesque parts of our region, with proceeds helping support the Port Waikato Volunteer Fire Brigade.

See runningcalendar.co.nz/event/portwaikato-challenge for more details.

Simon

Nick Murray Rural Living — October/November —3 Dawson 2018 Bates 027 420 2540 Sales Manager Branch Manager

Macrae Tuakau

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From the editor... the sunshine. Last time we were there, Tasman called and Nelson remained behind. This time we mean to enjoy the southern hot spot for a couple of days but that doesn’t mean I won’t be tempted to pop up to Mapua for lunch.

Anyway enough from me – do enjoy this month’s Rural Living including some fun Halloween recipes, my chat with Phil Matheson from Out of the Dark Mushrooms and the Q&A with photographer and web designer Britta Saxer who has again produced a scenic calendar to support the Beachlands Volunteer Fire Brigade.

There’s lots more too so, grab a cuppa, put your feet up and spend a bit of time with Rural Living.

So, naturally, I too was disappointed at my gaffe especially as we could have been sitting in the stands. However, I see next year’s ITM Superprint meeting is earlier – scheduled for September, followed by Bathurst a month later. So, I’m marking them on my calendar now; that way we might even make it to both!

In the meantime, as we drive the South Island (courtesy of our wonderful children) friends have snapped up the opportunity to take over our home so they can do what we can’t – walk down the road and see our local drivers bring home the goods; fingers crossed!

Motor racing aside, as much as I’m looking forward to our own West Coast wander – we’ll celebrate our wedding anniversary at Franz Josef – I am really looking forward to warmer weather. Every time I start bringing out the summer wardrobe, temperatures plummet again.

I’m praying the snow has disappeared by time we fly into Queenstown and there will be no need for chains as we make our way north.

I’m also counting on Nelson to turn on

Helen Perry, Editor

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’m not very popular in the Perry household at present. Man about the house is a HUGE motor racing fan. You know the kind – glued to Bathhurst for 10 hours or so! And, in the distant past, he even indulged in a bit of poor man’s circuit racing himself – Holden HQs, that is.

So, you can imagine his chagrin when he discovered I had booked a six-day escape, which takes in the weekend the V8s will be at Pukekohe Park Raceway, November 2-4.

I swear it wasn’t intentional. I am, in fact, a bit of a race fan too. That comes from watching Speedway as a youngster (we lived near the stadium), then switching to stockcars in my teens and, of course, following motor racing around the country’s various national circuits when the HQ occupied our lives for a few years.

I even remember the hey-day of Pukekohe motor racing when the New Zealand Grand Prix was still a fixture during the late 1960’s and international motor racing attracted enthusiastic crowds – what fun it was to take a picnic and spend a day at the track.

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Big Bay Orua Bay

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TRICKS OF THE TRADE: What’s round (well, roundish), often grey or orange and practically begging to have a carving knife jammed into it?

No, it’s not The Donald, it’s a Jack. Traditional centrepieces of Halloween, jack-o’-lanterns have long warned away ghouls and goblins on October 31, or so the story goes. In this issue, we have helpful hints and tips to ensure your jack-o’lantern is the high’light’ of the occasion, as well as a ‘how-to’ guide for growing pumpkins at home. See pages 30 and 39 to read more.

Jackie Underhill DDI 09 271 8092 jackie@ruralliving.co.nz

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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.

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build Settling In SOUTH EAST WAIKATO FRANKLIN

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BLACK BEAUTIES COME

out of the shadows Alpacas are a not uncommon sight around our district but you would be lucky to catch a glimpse of the Suri type, an altogether more rare and finer animal. ANGELA KEMP tracked down a successful Maramarua farming operation dedicated to these beautiful camelids.

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hen Grant and Frith Latham returned from overseas in 2012 they did what many home comers do and bought themselves a piece of paradise in Franklin. They dreamed of escaping the hustle and bustle of city life and found heaven on a beautiful 13-acre lifestyle block in Bombay.

They had no farming experience so looked into the easiest animals to care for and settled on alpacas. In just six years they’ve become a successful commercial breeding farm and isolation facility with a 75-strong herd.

“With only one cat as our animal experience we began by visiting a selection of alpaca farms,” says Frith (so named after the little girl in The Snow Goose). “We looked at both Huacaya and Suri alpacas Huacaya are the gorgeous fluffy teddy bear type which is most often seen here. While they are adorable, we fell in love with the Suri breed.”

Suris have long flowing silky locks when in full fleece and account for only 10 per cent of the alpaca population.

Apart from the spectacular look and feel

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of the fleece, the Latham’s main reason for choosing Suri was the uniqueness of the fibre.

“It doesn’t compete with merino; it’s more like silk and can add properties of lustre, drape and softness to a garment.”

The couple’s business took off and three years ago they moved 15 minutes down the road to Maramarua. Shadow Wood Farm is just over 70 acres of secure pasture with a backdrop of forest and farmland. It houses purpose-built yards, isolation and handling facilities.

“We initially purchased five females as we knew we wanted to become a commercial farm and produce plenty of Suri fleece. We really took on a challenge as we decided to specialise in black Suri which are even more uncommon.”

Grant has continued to work off farm while Frith combines working from home as a qualified tutor for dyslexic children with operating an isolation facility for alpacas about to be exported “Now we have 75 alpacas with around 20 cria (babies) expected in November. We have two boys who are my favourites at the moment, Kiwi and

McCaw. They love cuddles or an ear rub (not all alpacas are so cuddly!) and both enjoy nibbling at my clothes although I’ve got no idea why.”

The alpacas are shorn once a year in late October by specialist shearer, Mike Banks of Shearpac. The fibre is all processed in NZ. Suri fleece processing requires skill due to its silky nature and Frith says it can be a challenge getting large enough quantities to process but the situation was slowly improving with more Suri breeders around.

Some of their fibre is sold to Pacific Alpacas who make duvets with it but really special fleeces are sold to the Venture Suri collective and are currently spun into luxury shawls by the Heirloom Woollen Collection. Other uses for the silky fleece is for making doll’s hair and in wearable art.

There are markets in New Zealand for every bit of alpaca fleece but Frith warns that being profitable with alpacas is quite hard on a small block where they are better enjoyed as curious and delightful pets.

“If you own a small block then alpacas www.ruralliving.co.nz

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make a great livestock choice for their uniqueness and personality. Making a profit from them is harder but if you think outside the box, like some owners, you can do well.

“It might be a farm shop, spinning, farm stay, tourism or another great idea.

There are a few large scale alpaca farms in New Zealand achieving good financial rewards but they generally have a valueadded approach, also manufacturing products. Some even sell direct to the public from their farm.”

Frith says alpaca exports are also another business option for some breeders.

“Our New Zealand alpacas are generally of a high calibre and are in demand in Europe. What sets alpacas apart from other livestock on a small block is their easy handling and individual personalities. Sheep and beef can have their place but having raised both in recent years we say alpacas are delightfully different.”

Frith is a committee member for the Alpaca Association NZ which runs workshops on basic alpaca care and hosts events through the year to support www.ruralliving.co.nz

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new owners.

“Over the years some older alpaca owners have retired and the alpaca community is adjusting to a changing demographic,” she says. “That’s why new alpaca owners are always welcome at our local events.

“The Franklin A&P show in February [now called the Counties Power Show] is a great way we connect with potential alpaca owners. At next year’s show we’re having a fun event whereby new owners can ‘show’ their pet alpacas. They just need to be halter trained and TB-free (the AANZ can help you here). Our judge will ensure you learn a lot and she’s so friendly, you’ll be sure to have a great time.”

Every year Shadow Wood alpacas attend about eight shows to garner critiques from the judges on its best alpacas. Showing alpacas is also a great social hobby says Frith adding that alpaca owners in this area are friendly and supportive.

“We have some world class judges in New Zealand and are very lucky to have Diane Marks judging at the 2019 Counties Power Show which

is stilled managed by the Franklin A&P association. This year Mrs Marks has judged in Sweden, Germany and Australia.”

Seeing as there has been a rise in the consumption of alpaca meat ‘across the ditch’, I asked Frith if we’d ever find it on our menus here.

“There is very little commercially available alpaca meat in NZ. There is a bigger meat industry in Australia and it’s a common protein in South America.

“Grant and I have eaten alpaca meat and it’s quite tasty but we’ve never been able to eat any of our own alpacas. Even the couple nicknamed ‘Sausages’ are still happily eating grass.”

You can check out Sausages, Kiwi, McCaw and the other beautiful beasts for yourself when Shadow Wood opens to the public on National Alpaca Day in early May next year.

Visit Shadow Wood’s facebook page www.facebook.com/ shadowwoodalpacas where the Latham’s eldest son Scott, a videographer, is posting some great footage of the farm.

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 9 Photos Wayne Martin

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REFLECTIONS ON END OF GREAT WAR Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

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from Canada but New Zealand was just too far away to travel back to England.

She must have been extremely brave to travel half way around the world to a foreign land with two young children. I have been unable to find any shipping records as to when they arrived in New Zealand but I presume they disembarked in Auckland as my grandmother bought a house at Northcote where she lived for the remainder of her life.

Sadly, she and her husband are buried on opposite sides of the world – he in France and my grandmother in the Catholic cemetery in Northcote.

Fittingly, I still have the telegram and letter she received after my grandfather’s death.

Of course, when the celebrations are over, we will be well on the way to Christmas and, hopefully, warmer weather – Go the All Blacks!

Counties Cup Day The SsangYong Counties Cup returns to Pukekohe Park for 2018 showcasing thrilling horse racing, fashion, entertainment and hospitality.

Book your tickets today PukekohePark.co.nz 10 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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n about two weeks the world will celebrate a most memorable occasion in history – 100 years since the end of the First World War. It ended at precisely the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, 1918. This year, centenary celebrations in London will also take place on 11-11-2018.

I mention this because Reay and I had intended to be in London to acknowledge the commemorations.

During that war my grandfather was a member of the 7th London Regiment and was also a recipient of the Military Medal which was awarded for bravery. Therefore, we would have liked to have been in the UK and part of the celebrations but due to illness we called off the trip – very disappointing.

My grandfather died on August 10, 1918, just three months before the end of the war which I wrote about in Rural Living last year.

My grandmother was invited to Buckingham Palace to receive his medals which she did, accompanied by my father (7 years) and his sister (5 years).

Later, my grandmother obviously considered the future and decided that London was no place for a widow to raise two young children.

She had a choice of immigrating to either Canada or New Zealand and chose New Zealand for the simple reason that if she became homesick she could return

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Alta Dream Lodge

FOR SALE – 190 WAIAU PA ROAD Ill health forces urgent sale – all enquiries welcome

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Stylish gates take you through to the driveway up to the sparkling Landmark home where the word stylish is so obvious. Every care and attention to detail has been taken, making the home a real find for the lifestyle and entertaining connoisseur.

The open plan living area opens out to warm patios on both sides of the home, the north facing one is very luxurious, and from here you can gaze out over the land and the incredible stable complex.

The kitchen, with its exquisite lights is a modern dream, complete with a remarkable butlers’ pantry. The main kitchen bench is a statement for entertainment. From here the hostess is always close to the guests but can have an eye on the pulse!

Easy entertaining was always top of the list when the vendors were designing the home.

The choice of accessories is in keeping with the home with wooden flooring and elegant drapes throughout. There is a smaller lounge www.ruralliving.co.nz

to the north as well, also with a gas fire, making this a very cosy winter room and close to the kitchen, is a clever bedroom which is used as an office. The master bedroom opens to the patio as well and is a beautiful space to escape to!

Moving now to the stable complex where you have an incredible insight into the equestrian breeding industry. Five magnificent stables each with their own separate water supply are within the first barn, including a tack room and a smaller unit where the assistant vet will sleep during foaling time. You could eat your breakfast from the floor – it is that spotless!

The north facing land is well raced and has specialist fencing throughout, again all brand new. The property is definitely a “stand alone” specialist lifestyle block but will lend itself to all equestrian disciplines. The sheds of course, would suit all other sorts of applications!

If you are a discerning and entrepreneurial purchaser, then this is the spot for you! Close to good schools and beaches, and only 20 minutes to the Bloodstock Centre at Karaka.

Enjoy being part of one of the remaining village communities – your family will thrive on it! Inspection will be rewarded!

P R I C E R A N GE Mid-high $2 million

VI E W I N G www.barfoot.co.nz/761108

CHERRY COOPER 021 955 141 / 09 232 0000 c.cooper@barfoot.co.nz Papakura 09 298 8029 barfoot.co.nz

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 11 KAT6199-v2

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18/10/2018 3:20:28 p.m.

Over

the gate

Britta Saxer

artist and photographer

T

he Franklin Local Board serves a wide region from Awhitu in the West to Beachlands in the east, a seaside village, rapidly growing into a busy Auckland suburb.

Rural enough for residents to embrace country living, Beachlands is still home to many talented professionals, including web designer and photographer, Britta Saxer who, for the past four years has compiled a scenic calendar with her own photographs, to raise funds for deserving causes. In the past three years, sales have supported the Beachlands Volunteer Fire Brigade, raising $1000 last year.

This year’s calendar ($19.95) is now available in Beachlands from Hammer Hardware, Unichem pharmacy, Rosa Café and Sierra Cafe as well as from Pepperjacks at Pine Harbour and The Wharf Store Cafe in Maraetai so Rural Living talked to Britta, over the gate, about her work.

calendars disappointed they don’t feature a ‘topless’ fireman on every page?

Originally from Germany, when did you come to New Zealand?

When do you take the photographs?

I came here in 1997, with my Kiwi husband, Paul and 10-month-old twin girls.

Previously, I lived in Berlin where I studied art at the Free University of Berlin. Starting our own family brought us to NZ. Friends lived in Maraetai; we fell in love with the area so made our home in Beachlands.

When did you come up with the idea of a calendar to support the local fire service?

This is a great community where lots of people know and support each other. In 2005, a friend, Lee Reilly and I developed a community website to keep people informed about local issues. Over time, as more fields were converted into subdivisions, we felt the Pohutukawa Coast was in danger of losing its identity, The website and the calendar are both platforms to say: “Look how beautiful it is here; this is a great place with a unique identity which is worth preserving and deserves support.”

A trial calendar in 2015 was popular so in 2016 the first proper calendar was printed, raising money for Rotary. From 2017 the calendar has raised funds for our fantastic fire brigade. It deserves all our support.

Are people who haven’t seen previous 12 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

RL October-November 2018.indd 12

This is a great question, and we have lots of laughs about it. Yes, some people expect well-built firemen – and women – but then they seem slightly relieved that it’s landscape photography. I am sure our local fire officers are more than suitable models, but so far, I am avoiding the challenge!

Is this a popular calendar for people to send to friends and family overseas?

The calendar is certainly a great way to introduce or remind loved ones about the beauty of our Pohutukawa Coast. A4 size, it comes with an envelope so it can be sent within NZ for $3.60 and overseas for $4.40.

I have regular customers who have made it a tradition to send them to family and friends every year.

This is an ongoing process. I go for lots of walks and cycle along our coast, often with my camera. I prefer to shoot early in the morning or late afternoon. The ‘golden hour’, about an hour before sunset, provides ideal conditions.

What do you look for when out?

I have favourite places I revisit at different times of the year. To have a plan is always good, but I love the element of surprise in photography, when a magic scene just happens in front of you. But as every photographer knows, that doesn’t happen very often. The beauty is to be in the right place at the right time and to have patience to wait for the right shot.

With earlier calendars I focused on showing certain places in beautiful light making sure I covered Beachlands, Maraetai and Whitford landmarks. This year, I took the liberty to tell stories with my photography and to convey the atmosphere of the coast across the year.

Though you initially studied for a fine arts degree and painted for a period, you eventually took up graphic design and now have a boutique web design and photography business. What exactly does Saxer Design do commercially?

My company develops websites which combine an original design with high functionality to ensure a business stands out and reflects its point of difference.

Clients choose us because I personally take care of the sales and design process, getting to know their business and pushing it forward on every ‘visual’ level, from logo design to print and online media. With more than 20 years of experience I love to work on a very practical level to make a business stand out; the key is to be authentic and personal.

In what capacity do you work with schools?

Over the past 10 years I have developed several school websites; the relationship with each of ‘my schools’ is a long and ongoing friendship. The school websites prime function is to communicate with parents and the community; some of our sites are multi-lingual. Photography is a great way to portray a school and its special character. Kids are amazing to work with and I come across the most magic moments in the school grounds. Quite often I feel like a fly on the wall, just waiting and then something beautiful happens.

Additionally, I work as an associate for KEA education which assists schools in finding their next suitable principal. We have done this for a number of schools in the Franklin area – Patumahoe, Pukekohe, Drury, Pukeoware, Waiau Pa, Conifer Grove, Papakura and others.

Photography is integral to the websites you create, do you have any time to photograph (or paint) for pleasure?

I consider myself lucky every time I pick up my camera which might be for work or pleasure; either way I love the challenge and give it 100%. I do put aside some days in which I can take my camera and look for ‘stories that need to be told’. I love to work creatively but believe you need to constantly train the eye and I am always learning.

Have you thought of framing/selling your photographs/artworks?

I do sell my photos, printed on canvas or acrylic. Often people require a print in a specific size, so I work for an individual www.ruralliving.co.nz

18/10/2018 3:20:22 p.m.

r

Photo Wayne Martin

space. I also do photo shoots for professionals and some families which are printed and framed.

Have you considered taking up painting again and do you have a genre preference?

Yes, I am sure I will paint again; sometimes I play around with silk painting, just for fun. I love to work with acrylic paints and prefer to mix my own paint with pigments.

But, as I am a perfectionist, I need time to do this so I can produce work to a certain standard otherwise I am frustrated.

You are also a keen gardener, if you could grow any vegetable or flower, or raise any animal what would it be? www.ruralliving.co.nz

RL October-November 2018.indd 13

I have realised the dream! I am fascinated by bees, so last year we introduced three beehives to our garden. Now we have thousands of ‘pets’ which are amazing to watch. They are not really interested in us (a good thing, I guess) but they produce some honey, pollinate the plants and are a great subject to photograph.

If you could be Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage for a day what is the first thing you would do and why?

I believe art needs to be more integrated in the Kiwi culture. First, I would increase funding for arts centres which offer exhibitions and art workshops; they really struggle to survive financially. I would also introduce more galleries. We have a

lot of empty shops; wouldn’t it be nice to encourage young adults, in particular, to show what they’ve got.

If you could ask any three people to dinner who would they be?

Rob Suisted – one of New Zealand’s top photographers. He travels for NZ Geographic and would have amazing stories to tell.

Alan Gibbs – I love his Kaipara Harbour sculpture park with works by Sir Anish Kapoor, Richard Sierra and other acclaimed artists. He must be bold and entertaining.

Kim Hill – I think she is one of the finest broadcasters we have, witty and wellinformed. Just imagine her at one table with the two gentlemen above?

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 13

18/10/2018 3:20:25 p.m.

Chicken talk!

KAT6271

Fiona Vincent, from Poultry Valley suggests the newly arrived warm spring weather is the time to give poultry a health check and ensure coops are cleaned and treated.

After a very wet winter, the sunshine and longer days are welcomed by me and by our chooks and ducks – egg production is cranking up and ducklings are appearing.

If you haven’t yet wormed your chickens then now is the time to do so. We use and recommend Flubavet 5% which is mixed into our chook food and fed for seven consecutive days.

There is no withholding period for the eggs and it is effective against gastro-intestinal nematodes including tapeworms and gapeworm.

The warmer weather also wakens dreaded mites – those detestable creatures that suck the life out of chooks while they sleep at night. Prevention is better (and much easier) than cure so give chicken coops a good spring clean.

Spray with PoultryShield which is an excellent disinfectant and mite killer. Then mix DE into a paste to spray or paint all over the coop; take particular care to cover all timber joins as well as under the roost and in the nesting boxes. A flowers of sulphur and DE mix in a dust bath will give your chooks immense pleasure.

Another tip for happy, healthy chooks is to give them a vitamin boost at this time of year. Products such as Stressol help replace vitamins and minerals which hens may have lost over the winter due to lack of sunshine and an abundance of mud!

This health boost will ensure top quality eggs and, in turn, a healthy chick if desired.

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Stop pests like sparrows and rodents from stealing your hen’s food. Our feeders are also weather proof, so no food is ever wasted or stolen.

While lifestylers embrace country living to avoid being fenced in, that’s precisely what’s required when it comes to birds of a different feather, owner of Allan’s Lifestyle Products, Will (Wilz) Hammond, explains.

“Whether we live on a lifestyle block or in town, it’s essential to ensure our chooks don’t fly the coop!” he says. “That’s where our Chickin-Out Fencing comes into its own.”

Despite being light – easily moved when entertaining in the backyard – Chickin-Out is robust too, not only keeping birds in, but stopping curious cats and other would-be predators in their tracks.

The system uses annealed wire mesh and standardised panels making it ideal for building coops to accommodate anything from a few birds to a few dozen. Easily joined, using cable ties, this means coops can take on many shapes.

“Nothing beats fresh, home-laid eggs in the morning, with a few extras to share with friends, family and neighbours,’ Wilz says. “No wonder it’s becoming more and more common to raise a few birds at home and, because coops can be constructed to suit townies too, we’ve found that ChickinOut is fast becoming the... in-thing!”

KAT6276

14 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

18/10/2018 3:20:28 p.m.

Have land, want chickens?

B

usy lifestylers, keen to keep a few chooks don’t need to chicken out for fear they’ll have no time to care for them. Grandpa’s product range can help make the job easy.

Tried and proven Grandpa’s feeders give chooks on-demand food which stays dry, clean and can’t be accessed by wild birds and rodents. What’s more, there’s no wasted feed as special anti-flick grills prevents chooks from flicking or scratching food out on to the ground.

The feeder has an opening weight which hens can open but is too heavy for rats and wild birds and it is weather proof, too. Conveniently, it can be topped up at any stage from a hopper – the old feed will come through to the trough surface first, so there’s no stale food.

Thirsty hens can rely on Grandpa’s

drinker cups to provide fresh, clean water.

The two-cup unit simply attaches to any water container with a standard size bung and the cups will stay full due a small ball cock inside.

There is no dirty water, no spillage and it’s safe for little chicks as there is not enough exposed water where they could drown.

These days most owners prefer their chickens to be free range during the day but they’re not always on hand to free them from the coop. So, check out Grandpa’s ‘check in’ auto door which will do it for them. An easy to operate unit, ready to fit to your hen house, it runs on 2 AA batteries plus a light sensor and can be programmed to open and close as desired.

With a good source of high protein food, clean water and an option to free range for part of the day, expect happy, healthy hens which will provide a good supply of eggs. All you need do is collect them!

The New Chookyard In Town

W

hen the opportunity arose to continue the business which Wendy Majoor from Chooks n Things (aka Chook Manor North) had established in Franklin, Chris and Allan Brook leapt at the chance to work from home.

Rebranding as The Chookyard, they continue to sell all the products you’ve come to know and love.

Stocking a full range feeds and treats, such as the popular Weston and Sharpes’ feeds, Denver Organic Feed and North Country Grains SupaFeeds, as well as delicious treats such as the Hentastic Foraging Feast, Topflite Scratch&Lay and tasty mealworms, they are pleased to continue the inter-island business relationship with Greg and Cheryl from Chook Manor in Canterbury by stocking

products such as Smite Organic DE and the innovative Feed-o-matic and Drink-omatic products by Olba.

As well as selling feed, health and wellbeing supplements, Chris and Allan hatch Brown Shavers and Heritage chicks every week, and have already provided day-old chicks to several local schools for their Ag Days. They look forward to developing those networks as the kids and chicks grow!

With spring here, Chris and Allan have enjoyed hatching a heritage flock of Barred Rocks, Barnevelders, Light Sussex and Orpingtons. These are available for purchase from day-old chicks and as fertile eggs.

They are delighted to continue servicing the North Island from their Chookyard, with support from Wendy in her new

location in the Manawatu. They look forward to helping you with your poultry, needs and feeds.

Open Tuesday to Friday, 12noon to 6pm and Saturday, 10am to 5pm, visit The Chookyard at 53 Reid Road, Glenbrook, Franklin, Ph 021 049 0138 or 09 238 7145. Shop online at www.thechookyard.co.nz.

CONTROL YOUR CHOOKS The home of rare & large quality heritage poultry breeds

No posts needed Free-standing fencing Easily moved Visit the website!

A��a�’� L��e����e P������� www.lifestyleproducts.net.nz

Ph Wilz 027 279 3483 • wilz@lifestyleproducts.net.nz KAT5909

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RL October-November 2018.indd 15

Heritage Poultry Breeds Buff Orpington Ducks • Feed & Health Products • Waterers & Feeders

Fertile Eggs Pullets/Hens • Muscovy

•

•

•

•

Ph 09 235 2758, Mob 020 4082 2895 Email poultryvalley.lifestyle@gmail.com 166 Holmes Rd, RD2, Waiuku

www.poultryvalley.co.nz

KAT5462-v2

Chickin-Out Fencing

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 15

18/10/2018 3:37:05 p.m.

‘Tahrmageddon’

follows sage advice

By Jon Rawlinson

A

fter being urged to ask questions first, shoot later, over a planned cull of thousands of Himalayan tahr, Eugenie Sage (Minister of Conservation) has revised her targets.

However, as Rural Living went to print, the Minister confirmed the cull was imminent.

“The target of controlling 10,000 Himalayan tahr over the next eight months remains,” she said. “DOC (Department of Conservation) and hunters will now work together to achieve an initial control of 6,000 animals before mid-November to stop the tahr population from increasing this summer and destroying more of the native plants they feed on.

“Then, DOC will assess what further action is needed to reach the 10,000 animal target by August 2019 in consultation with the Tahr Liaison Group.”

The animals, found in New Zealand’s central Southern Alps, are closely related to goats and prized by hunters. Because such a cull would leave less of the creatures available for them to claim, associated industries could feel the pinch.

Ms Sage’s latest comments follow a National-instigated petition, designed to halt or scale back the cull, which collected more than 23,000 signatures.

Pressure was also brought to bear

Close & Personal.

Photo Bill Wallace, NZDA

by hunting groups such as the NZ Deerstalkers’ Association (NZDA). In September, association spokesman, Bill O’Leary, said: “More time needs to be spent setting terms and conditions rather than just rushing in and killing everything on sight without considering the consequences. The numbers... have been set without a proper assessment of the situation, and there is no attempt to leave the most valuable animals – the bull tahr that can take eight years to reach trophy potential.”

In addition to the NZDA, the Tahr Foundation asserted that DOC’s population estimates were “statistically shaky” and threatened legal action (with a war chest of approximately $156,000 raised) to block DOC. However, as the stoush brewed, the minister did rally an ally, Forest & Bird.“While recreational hunting has a role in pest control, it is essential that we do not hand over conservation management to the hunters,” the organisation’s Canterbury regional manager, Nicky Snoyink, said.

“Time after time we have learnt that recreational hunting is not up to the task of achieving the desired conservation goals.”

Ms Snoyink said the tahr population was “skyrocketing”, with the population closer to 50,000, when non-conservation land was taken into account. “Because of past failures of recreational and commercial hunting we need to reduce tahr numbers by 80 percent.”

With a new operational plan in place – revised following input from various organisations – it appears the tahr can no longer count on further stays of execution.

“There’s a real risk the population will explode further unless control work is done. Tahr can potentially wipe out native plants they feed on. On thin mountain soils it also increases soil erosion risks,” Ms Sage concludes.

“There is absolutely no plan to eradicate tahr completely. Even after this control work is done, there will still be thousands available for guided hunting and tourist ventures.”

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16 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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KAT5308-v2

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18/10/2018 3:20:37 p.m.

Vet Talk

Here’s Spring... and the worms!

Dr Sarah Clews BVSc BSc Spring is here and with the warmth comes the worms.

All those little larvae lying in wait during the cold, winter months for their time to shine are emerging and setting up camp in the stomach and intestines of livestock.

Here are some important fun facts to remember! n Lambs, kids and calves should be receiving their first drench (de-wormer) at about 6-10 weeks old, once they’ve been nibbling the grass for a few weeks. It is important to use “First Drench” in lambs and goat kids to protect against tape worm, those grotty white segments you see in their stools. Expect to see more after drenching, as all the dead adults flush out! n SAFETY FIRST! Any drench can be dangerous if overdosed.

However, under dosing leads to issues as well. Be careful when drenching your little ones; if they’re small enough to cuddle, jump on the bathroom scales or use our scales in store. If drenching a group, try to dose to the individual.

n Even adults require regular drenching during summer to protect them against barber’s pole, that nasty vampire worm which drinks blood. Sheep, goats and alpaca are at high

risk, especially if run together!

Specific drenches are required at specific intervals during summer, so chat with one of us inclinic. n The barber’s pole worm gets

its name because the female has long white ovaries, which wrap around the blood-filled intestines, giving it a barbers’ pole pattern. n When drenching your alpaca and goats, they require 1.5x the sheep dose rate you will find on the label. Underdrenching means the strongest worms will survive and breed, to create an army of SUPER WORMS resistant to our drenches.

Enjoy the photos of grotty, post-drenching of wee lambs.

A perfect representation of the mixed population hiding out on the inside!

November CHECKLIST n Equine – Warm weather has brought optimal conditions for parasite development earlier this year. Keep a close check on your horse’s coat for evidence of ticks and it’s time to gather faecal egg counts to plan spring drenching. The conditions have also triggered plenty of grass growth so it’s time to restrict grazing for those prone to

laminitis or grass colic. Please contact the equine team on 09 238 2471 to discuss any spring grass-related worries you have. n Sheep – Shearing, flystrike protection, facial eczema control and drenching for barber’s pole worm are all needed over the next few months. Our lifestyle packages, in which our technicians

take care of all this for you, are a great option for busy people.

Talk to our team today. n Pets – Remember that cats and dogs need regular worming too. An adult worm can lay up to 200,000 eggs per day! Dogs and cats should be wormed every three months, to keep them healthy and to minimise the number of eggs entering the environment.

KAT5238-v12

Looking for a healthcare solution that includes EVERYTHING your lifestyle block animals need on an annual basis?

Talk to us today.

Call 09 298 8575 | Email lifestyle@fvs.co.nz | WWW.FRANKLINVETS.CO.NZ www.ruralliving.co.nz

RL October-November 2018.indd 17

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 17

18/10/2018 3:40:24 p.m.

LOCAL HUNTERS LAND BIRDS, PRIZES

KAT5232-v10

KAT5218

Two local hunters have bagged more than they bargained for, claiming $600 prize packs through a Banding Together prize draw.

By sending duck band details from their quarry to Fish & Game, Benjamin King-Tamihana (Port Waikato) and Tom Farrell (Pokeno) will now receive prizes including a Banded White River hunting jacket and a six-pack of Avery decoys courtesy of Hunting & Fishing New Zealand.

“I couldn’t believe it when I got the letter, says Tom. “We didn’t have quite as good a season as last year but still pretty good – between all five or six of us, we probably got about 150 [birds] – so it was great to win the prize.

“The bands are pretty cool because you get to see how old the bird was, where it originated from, how far it’s travelled and all that. They help Fish & Game get a better idea how they’re breeding and how well they’re [populations] are surviving.”

Designed to track bird numbers and location, Fish & Game’s duck banding programme has been running for 22 years. Banding Together has helped increase the flow of invaluable information from hunters, Chris Cameron from Hunting & Fishing New Zealand confirms. “We are certainly well aware how important [banding] information is to Fish & Game’s management of game birds. It’s why we raised the stakes this past hunting season – to provide even more incentive for the return of details.”

“This data helps Fish & Game better manage the birds, gain better estimates of duck populations and how healthy they are. It’s invaluable information and ultimately it’s both, ducks and hunters, which benefit from this work.”

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18 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

18/10/2018 3:20:48 p.m.

FRESH ‘FOWL’ STINK

stirs up Waikato

By Jon Rawlinson

D

irect Animal Action has drawn battle lines to oppose a potential “mega egg factory farm” in North Waikato.

Deirdre Sims, the group’s spokesperson, is appealing to the Orini community, (East of Huntly) to stop the proposed development, by Mainland Poultry, in its tracks.

“We’ve been running a petition which has gathered more than 20,000 signatures... we’ll be presenting [it] to the Waikato District Council calling on them to decline Mainland’s proposal,” she says.

“The community doesn’t want a massive, ugly industrial complex in their quiet, beautiful valley. The proposed mega egg factory farm would increase heavy traffic in the area and, of course, foul odour is always an issue.”

However, Mainland Poultry “understands the value of being good neighbours,” Michael Guthrie, the organisation’s CEO emphasised to Rural Living.

“It’s easy for people to sign an online petition without any thought to the millions who will be impacted should their demands be met,” he says. “We visited all the neighbours in sight of the farm to take them though what was being proposed... it was (originally) envisioned as a much larger scale farm than the one now planned.”

In 2016, Craddock Farms’ intentions for a colony cage development in Patumahoe were shelved by The Environment Court due to the farm’s potential to emit an unacceptable level of odour. However, The Waikato District Council has provisionally accepted that Mainland’s development will operate within acceptable levels of noise and traffic as well as odour, Mr Guthrie asserts.

As with the Craddock Farms’ case, Ms Sims is also opposed to the Orini farm due to animal welfare concerns.

“The hens will have no access to the outdoors. Each building will confine 50,000 hens kept in a stacked arrangement reaching almost to the ceiling. Overseas, these systems have been called ‘high-rises for chickens’,” she asserts. “[We are] concerned the proposed site will confine 400,000 egg-laying hens to a ‘cage-free’ system that’s simply an

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RL October-November 2018.indd 19

“The hens will have no access to the outdoors. Each building will confine 50,000 hens kept in a stacked arrangement reaching almost to the ceiling.

Overseas, these systems have been called ‘highrises for chickens’.”

– Deidre Sims. adjustment on colony cages... Cage-free’ doesn’t mean ‘cruelty-free’ and we’re one hundred percent behind the Orini locals in opposing this mega farm.”

Although Craddock Farms intended to employ colony cages, Mr Guthrie confirms the new development will employ a barn system.

“Orini will not be a caged egg farm; it will have enclosures, [which] will be the barns themselves, to keep hens safe and secure. Hens will be free to roam anywhere in their barn,” he says. “[This] provides a good balance between animal welfare and production costs to keep eggs affordable... the barn system is the best way to achieve this.”

No stranger to cages, Mainland does use a colony system at some of its existing farms.

“Ironically, the delays we’re experiencing in getting the Orini farm running are forcing us to persist with caged (colony) egg production, which we had been planning to phase out, elsewhere,” Mr Guthrie adds.

“In addition, if barn eggs are deemed unacceptable, local egg production may become so expensive that resellers and large consumers [have to] import more liquid egg from caged hens overseas...

If this continues, the net effect of all the animal activism will be that caged hens in New Zealand are simply replaced by ones in Australia. This is not something anyone wants to see happen.”

Detailed information regarding egg farming methods (including colony cages and the barn system) is available via eggfarmers.org.nz.

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 19

18/10/2018 3:20:48 p.m.

THERMOKENNEL MAY SEE SLEEPING A dog’s life is set to become a whole lot better thanks to a brilliant bit of Kiwi innovation.

Those hard working farm hands – New Zealand working dogs – have always had a tough but rewarding job. They can be out all day in all weather, mustering sheep – a farmer’s right hand dog –

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only to spend the night under a makeshift shelter or kennel on an old blanket for warmth. One Kiwi entrepreneur decided it was time for change.

Rosie Todhunter has partnered with Locus Research to bring the modern insulation benefits of the human home to the working dog – enter Kelvin, the Thermokennel, a great outdoor home for a loyal companion, no matter what the conditions or climate. And, it comes just when public interest in animal welfare has hit a new high.

“We believe the Thermokennel will seriously improve the productivity of New Zealand farms and give these dogs a better life; not only our beloved farm dogs but any dog who spends the nights outside,” Rosie says.

“Just like people, dogs can freeze to death or suffer from heat stroke.

Uncomfortable temperatures can release stress hormones and seriously impact

the wellbeing of a dog and ultimately their effectiveness on the farm. The Thermokennel [combats that] and is a great way to say, ‘thank you’ to these loyal and lovable companions.”

The Thermokennel story started with Rosie’s late grandfather, Tony, a former Canterbury sheep farmer. He knew that a warm, well-rested dog would eat less, could work for longer, and heal more quickly from injuries and ailments. He came up with the idea of an insulated dog kennel but it was Rosie who took it further after her grandfather’s passing.

A sheep and beef farmer herself, Rosie teamed up with Tauranga-based product development company, Locus Research to fully redesign and develop Kelvin – the Thermokennel for production.

After meeting at the NZ National Agricultural Fieldays where Rosie presented her first prototype, they embarked on a development process

A satisfied customer in Hamilton has used Septi-Cure™ for over five years.

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www.ecoworld.co.nz 20 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

RL October-November 2018.indd 20

0800 109 202

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DOGS LIE (IN) which resulted in a durable mono-form design with a removable floor and front panel.

The main body and floor are constructed of two layers of UV resistant tough plastic (PE) filled with 50mm of high insulating foam (PU). This combination acts like a solid thermal barrier keeping the cold out and the heat in. The kennel is finished with a removable front panel, for hot summer days, and a raised plywood floorboard for sleeping on, perfect when there’s frost, snow or poor weather. The door opening is covered with transparent flaps, similar to those used in cool stores, making it easy for a dog to walk in and out while minimising heat loss.

The result is a lightweight kennel which is comfortable and durable as well as water tight, windproof and weather tight. A one-size fits most dogs, it also meets AsureQuality’s recommended environment temperature range for boarding kennels.

With manufacturing partners lined up, the company is aiming for the first deliveries to be available early 2019.

Anyone interested in investment opportunities should contact Daniel Faris, CEO, Locus Research at daniel@ locusresearch.com.

DUCK PLUS LUCK EQUALS CUPS Whether duck quacks do or don’t echo may be debatable but the call of wild certainly attracts some of this country’s finest hunters. Recently, Ritson Galloway (right) proved he had the right stuff in Taupo, claiming top honours at the annual New Zealand Duck and Goose Calling Championships.

During the championships, callers competed in live duck, open team duck, open live goose and open team goose categories, using authentic calls to realistically mimic those of ducks or geese.

Although this year’s event was “hotly contested”, the 15 year-old from Manawatu won all four of the categories he entered, including ‘Team Duck’ with the assistance of his younger brother, Kellan.

Competition organiser, Adam Rayner, says “Ritson’s wins were well deserved. He [Ritson] has spent countless hours perfecting his craft, winning competitions even as an 11 and 12 year-old. We have watched him develop over time into the expert duck calling champion that the champs have now confirmed him to be.”

Ritson’s ‘siren song’ could see the plucky youngster winging his way abroad in future, to take part at the USA’s Waterfowl Festival.

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Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 21

18/10/2018 3:20:57 p.m.

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KIDS, KIDS AND

Calf Club Although most of our local schools have already held their country days, calf club and agricultural days, there are more to come.

Please remember (if you haven’t already) to send photos from your school’s event to us at editor@ruralliving.co.nz. Photos will either run in our next issue or online.

Maramarua School Calf & Lamb Day October 26, 2200 State Highway 2, Maramarua Contact: 09 232 5846 or office@maramarua.school.nz Pukekawa School Calf Club Day October 26, 803 Highway 22, Pukekawa Contact: 09 233 4784, principal@pukekawa.school.nz Hunua School Agricultural Day October 27, Lockwood Road, Hunua Contact: 09 292 4889 or office@hunua.school.nz KAT6230

Onewhero Area School Calf Club Day October 27, Parsons Road, Onewhero Contact: 09 232 8866 or office@onewhero.school.nz

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CORRECTION: Sandspit Road School Combined Calf Club Day and the Waiuku Combined Schools Calf Club Group Day were cancelled this year. Unfortunately, we were not advised about this change before publication of our last issue. We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused. We do endeavour to offer free publicity for our region’s many schools and assistance from all our schools in this regard is always greatly appreciated.

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RL October-November 2018.indd 23

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 23

18/10/2018 3:21:06 p.m.

Get off the grass!

Comical anecdotes, cute photographs and other bits and bobs sent in by our readers. Keep sending us your briefs, trivia and photos of country life – email to info@ruralliving.co.nz.

BABY LOVE!

S

pring births in the animal world seldom fail to excite – everyone seems to love newborn lambs, cute calves, frisky goat kids and more. But when Rural Living received this charming photograph we just had to share it with readers.

The attractive colt pictured (still to be named), is the son of stallion, American Ideal, and is seen here with his famous mum, the former super pacer, Pullover Brown who, during her harness racing career, won more than $330,000.

Bought by a syndicate for a mere $1600 in 2000, Pullover Brown went on to have a prestigious racing career and, as a two to three year old in 2002/2003, was named,

Pacing Filly of the Year.

Since retiring 14 years ago, the mare has given birth to six live foals. Of the four now of racing age, three have won races and the youngest is about to have her first start.

Initially attracted to Pullover Brown because her dam was Dinavenitto, which the syndicate had leased for a time, the group is now hoping the new foal will prove another future winner.

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18/10/2018 3:21:05 p.m.

Who dared mention cat control, again?

By Ditch Keeling, Coastal Pest Solutions

I

e at op

recently read with interest Auckland Council’s latest proposed Pest Management Strategy and wasn’t at all surprised by the ensuing flood of outcry regarding a proposal to consider removing and euthanising any cat not wearing a micro chip and caught within sites of high biodiversity value, such as predator-free Tawharanui and Shakespear Regional Parks.

Cats are highly valued companion animals and no-one wants to see anybody’s beloved pet destroyed – just mention any form of cat control and you will receive back-lash like never before!

However, I applaud this new proposal and consider Auckland Council would not be doing the job we pay them for if they didn’t address this important issue.

Millions of dollars and several lifetimes have been spent creating our predatorfree sanctuaries, and the results now speak for themselves; now we can all go and see rare native species pretty much anytime we like thanks to these initiatives.

Furthermore, the breeding occurring at these sites is seriously bolstering numbers of animals which, until very recently, were on the way out, forever.

The continued success at our pest-free sites relies heavily on our ability to detect and remove any predator which makes its way into our sanctuaries, we successfully deal with dozens of such incursions each year. Every success is hard-won.

It’s tricky work just knowing something has arrived, then you need to find and catch it, all the while knowing that each night without a result has the potential to see continued predation of our most valued wildlife.

But, naturally, when responding to a cat incursion, we face the potential back-lash from angry cat lovers, whether it is a pet or a feral.

I have long felt that sensible cat ownership has some way to go. We have dog registration and limits on how many dogs people can own; there are also rules around controlling dogs at all times.

Not one of these standards applies to cat ownership. I’m sure this suits cat owners, but I doubt it helps those who have a neighbour’s cat(s) fouling their gardens or, in this case, cats visiting local wildlife refuges and helping themselves to a dinner of kiwi and a side of tuatara.

Surely, moving to some form of registration process, such as micro chipping is a reasonable response?

Allowing cat owners to have their pets recognised as such and allowing conservation managers to get on with removing stray, ownerless or feral cats, which find themselves in the wrong spot, is what is needed.

Conservationists and pest controllers do not view feral cats as any more destructive than all other pests. We see them simply as another introduced animal which needs to be managed in order to reduce their negative impact on native species.

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RL October-November 2018.indd 25

18/10/2018 3:21:10 p.m.

Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit ruralliving.co.nz and enter this month's code – RLNOV5656. One entry per person/email address; entries close November 30, 2018. Winner notified by phone or email.

TRICKY SWEETS SOUR NOTE The Natural Confectionary Co conjured up Sour Patch Tricksters just in time for Halloween but we’re guessing the magic of these tricky-lickies will last a lot longer than just one fun night of tricks or treats. It’s very much a case of ‘looks like one thing, tastes like another!’ With six sour fruit jelly flavours but only three colours, expect your tastebuds to be fooled. The good news is, if you haven’t already tried these moreish temptations we have a box of Sour Patch sweets up for grabs. It includes Sour Patch Kids, Sour Match MAX and, of course, Sour Patch Tricksters plus a fun taste game for the kiddies. Win or lose, these sweet and sour treats can also be found in Countdown, Pak’nSave and New World supermarkets as well as other national outlets.

WIN! TASTI RAW SNACKING SAMPLER PACKS WIN! ONE OF TWO PURINA ONE PRIZE PACKS – FOR CATS OR DOGS From pampered pedigrees to mutts and moggies, cats and dogs have long been part of Kiwi families. So, for many years, Purina ONE has been providing foods and supporting causes such as ‘Pets at Work Day,’ designed to help them lead long, healthy, active lives. Using premium ingredients, Purina’s formulas are designed to deliver optimum nutrition to cats and dogs at varying stages of life and with a range of specific health conditions. To ensure at least a couple of local pets receive the best, we have TWO $200 Purina ONE prize packs up for grabs. Simply confirm your pet’s species and age when entering our draw.

26 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

RL October-November 2018.indd 26

Following the premise that, when it comes to food, no one’s a better cook than Mother Nature, Tasti’s Raw Snacking range takes a ‘back to basics’ approach.

Including Energy Trail Mix, Berry & Nut Trio, Blueberry & Yoghurt, and Superfood Boost varieties, this range (RRP $4.99 per box of five packs) features good fats, protein, essential vitamins and minerals, as well as plenty of nutty, fruity flavour. Rural Living has sampler packs (featuring boxes of all four varieties) to give away to FIVE lucky readers.

THE NEW BIOLOGICAL ECONOMY The bread and butter of New Zealand’s economy stems from its farms. However, in a world where value is increasingly rooted in capital and technology-intensive industries, can we really continue to feather our nests by growing grass? In this book, professor of geography, Eric Pawson, reveals how our economy is adapting to meet the needs of the modern market and investigating how we can serve a growing demand for food without destroying our natural world in the processes.

Eric Pawson: The New Biological Economy – How New Zealanders are Creating Value from the Land | RRP $45 | Auckland University Press www.ruralliving.co.nz

18/10/2018 3:21:19 p.m.

Tesler test drive electric!

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

CITY LASS

W

hat a month and not a fun one! Brian has now had a bad chest infection for more than five weeks and, although he is slowly coming right, it has been the worst time ever for him to be absent from jobs around the house.

We listed the property for sale at the end of last month and, what, with the open homes and contending with adverse weather, it has been really exhausting. I am also sad that time to enjoy this property, which was ripe for renovating when we bought it, has been cut short. However, negotiating the motorway daily has been driving me mad and, Brian being sick, has further confirmed our decision that it’s time to move to a smaller home.

So, having achieved a wonderful, modern look and created a home we love, it, it’s time to go!

My Pukekohe daughter has also been busy getting her home ready for market; she is listing at the end of this week. We have discussed how deciding to list means doing all the jobs and finishing off all those projects started but still sitting there – and all for the new owners!

Getting houses ready for the market certainly puts life on the back burner; I seem to be doing housework all the time just on the off chance that someone may visit.

Reay Neben (inset) loved her test drive in the Tesla XP100D worth more than $200,000.

What’s more, with the constant cleaning and tidying, and Brian being unwell, we hadn’t been out anywhere or done anything special until Tesla asked me to test drive their new SUV Model XP100D – exciting indeed!

I had to pick the vehicle up in Karangahape Road on a busy Friday afternoon and was very apprehensive about driving an expensive electric car for the first time especially when I knew it would be in all that traffic.

First off, I was taken through all the details of how this wonder machine worked followed by a test drive. Wow – a short trip down K’ Road and I was sure I had it under control. Driving home on the motorway I decided to test how quick this vehicle could go from 0kms to 100kms and it was truly amazing.

Brian and I felt like we were part of TV’s Mercury Energy advert in which two old guys leave a retirement village in an electric yellow 1957 Ford Fairlaine sports

car and show its power when taking off from traffic lights, beating a petrol muscle car in the process – we had such a fun weekend.

This spring I am seeing all of the results of last year’s planting and it is a thrill to see how fast things grow out here. The hedge we put in with plants from Farrell’s is amazing and already looks like a real hedge. It has reached its required height and has filled in the gaps between each plant; there’s still some growing to do but the effect has been achieved.

It’s hard to believe that Christmas is just around the corner; I see Christmas decorations and Christmas crackers already being sold. This year has just flown by and, for us, so many good and bad things have occurred. We are, especially looking forward to our daughter and her husband, now living in Dubai, coming home for Christmas. That will be the icing on the cake.

Expect more cheerful news next month.

Cherry Cooper Lives Local, Sells Local!

M. 021 955 141 Papakura Office 09 298 8029 www.ruralliving.co.nz

RL October-November 2018.indd 27

KAT5291-v2

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

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 27

18/10/2018 3:41:51 p.m.

DO YOU KNOW THE

mushroom man?

There is no place for ‘magic’ mushrooms in Phil Matheson’s commercial enterprise but, undoubtedly, the three varieties he grows – oyster, shiitake and enoki – have captured the imagination of innovative chefs and are making their mark at some of the country’s leading restaurants. HELEN PERRY puts Out of the Dark Mushooms in the limelight.

I

f ever a business deserved to mushroom its Phil Matheson’s home grown, ‘fungi farm!’ Since starting out on his two acre plus Hunua property nine years ago, it has been virtually a one man band with family members putting in the added hard graft to make Out of the Dark Mushrooms a quiet but undeniable success.

However, it has gone through some tough times especially when Phil’s wife of 26 years was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010 and after a feisty battle passed away in 2013.

“We just kept going, we even made a delivery on the day Iona died,” says Phil.

“The kids (Lachlan and Ivanna then 14 and 15 respectively) pitched in and together we pulled through.”

However, some might observe that working seven days a week was Phil’s way of coping with the grief of losing a partner with whom he shared a life many would envy.

“Prior to setting up the business in 2009 we spent three years sailing the Pacific then spent a year in the USA. That’s where we first saw oyster mushrooms being grown on coffee grounds. On returning to New Zealand – Ivanna said she wanted to come back home and live like a ‘real Kiwi kid’, – we opted for rural living. The Hunua property seemed a good place to pursue the idea of farming mushrooms.”

Although he started out growing the oyster mushrooms he had seen in the States, Phil says customers were hard to come by.

“They [oyster mushrooms] hadn’t hit the 28 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

RL October-November 2018.indd 28

popularity stakes at that time; all everyone wanted was Portobellos. I’d connected with Helen [Dorresteyn] at the Clevedon Markets and made a good start there but I didn’t want to keep growing Portobellos or be confined to the markets.”

So, Phil persevered with growing not only the long-stemmed, delicate and versatile oyster mushrooms but also the rich, textured, smoky shiitake and the mild, sweet enoki varieties.

The idea was to market them to premium restaurants and wholesale to specialist food stores such as Ceres, Sabato and the likes. His persistence paid off.

“We outgrew facilities at home so in 2013 we began farming at two sites, one in Mt Roskill, the other at Kumeu but this year we moved the whole farming side to glasshouses in Otahuhu although our office is still in Takanini.

The new site is working well. Being close to the motorway makes freight movement easy but Phil refers to the property as ‘stage two, a stepping stone before setting up a fully purpose-built mushroom farming facility – “that’s on the drawing board right now but it’s still going around in our heads as to where and how.”

These days Out of the Dark Mushrooms is producing about a tonne of mushrooms per week and supplies about 60 per cent of that to top restaurants such as Cocoro, Sid@the French Café, and Amano.

“We also supply to My Food Bag and have a consumer strategy in the pipeline for launching into supermarkets,” says the man who was raised on a Paparimu farm

but set off to explore new horizons in the late 1980s – “I was a marketing lecturer at Otago University for several years; that’s since proved pretty useful in the business.”

These days, as Phil continues to increase his share of the market, he has expanded his team, and recognises growth has been partially due to a more sophisticated Kiwi palette.

“It’s not too many years since Kiwis viewed mushrooms with a bit of suspicion then along came mushrooms in a white sauce but, today, with global travel commonplace, people are experiencing – and enjoying – new tastes, textures and flavours abroad. This is impacting on the food scene here. We’re more experimental and open to new foods as is evidenced on supermarket shelves.”

And, for Phil, working with mushrooms suits his personal culinary preference.

“I’ve been a vegetarian for the past 11 years so working with mushrooms daily is never a problem. At home I do most of the cooking while my new partner, Deb does the cleaning – it’s an arrangement that suits us.”

So, when it comes to mushrooms what do you cook, Phil? He rattles of half a dozen ideas in no time.

“But if it’s Portobellos you have in the pantry trying topping them with crushed garlic, balsamic vinegar and olive oil, then pop them in the oven for 15 minutes – beautiful. On the other hand, if you want a real treat, try our vacuum-packed, wine barrel smoked mushrooms slices with a cheese platter and a glass of wine; it’s just the thing to finish off a working week.” www.ruralliving.co.nz

18/10/2018 3:21:42 p.m.

Oh the aroma!

Phil Matheson.

Over the past nine years Phil Matheson’s business may have sprouted but not one to overlook any opportunity he has more than one enterprise cooking.

In 2014 he and Ross Appleton from Equagold (vanilla specialists) opened a commercial kitchen in Takanini where their two offices are neighbours.

“The idea was to do some contract manufacturing and this was just getting off the ground when I had a call from the Hawkes Bay in 2016 asking if I wanted to buy Aromatics, a company specialising in sauces and condiments,” Phil explains.

“Initially, I said, ‘no’. However, I was keen to take on one product, their wine barrel smoked mushrooms but they really wanted me to take all or nothing so nothing it was.”

Three months later Aromatics called Phil back asking did he still want the mushrooms.

“I said, ‘you bet’; they agreed then dropped a bombshell. They said I could have the lot. I only wanted the mushrooms but ended up with 27 other products.”

However, as that famous English bard, Shakespeare said, ‘all’s well that ends well’.

Phil’s 19 year old son, Lachlan now works fulltime on Aromatics, started by chef, Noel Crawford who came up with the wine barrel smoked mushrooms which won a cuisine award in 2013. After Noel’s death the company changed hands before coming into Phil’s possession.

Now the range, together with another of Phil’s ‘babies’, Harriet’s Marinades and Glazes, is finding its market niche and Phil says: “The ways things are going with both companies, there’s potential to go far.

But, there’s still no room for slacking.”

Photos Wayne Martin

www.ruralliving.co.nz

RL October-November 2018.indd 29

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 29

18/10/2018 3:21:42 p.m.

’ g n i h s a m S ‘ IDEAS FOR

Halloween pumpkins Halloween just wouldn’t be the same without pumpkins.

Swedes carved up with strange faces just aren’t going to scare anyone... unless your name is Bjorn Bjornsen from Herbabingerbin, Stockholm that is! So we’ll concentrate on pumpkins; what they are and how they’ve come to play such a major part on All Hallows’ Eve. Deriving its name from the Greek for ‘large melon’, the pumpkin (Cucurbita) is a squash-like fruit native to North America. Unlike the typical orange or yellow pumpkins, usually associated with Halloween, here in New Zealand the most common variety, green in colour, is actually a close relative, also known as a winter squash.

So now we know what it is, here’s what we can do with it:

30 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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WACKO ‘JACKO’ LANTERN – A REAL THRILLER While the carved pumpkin has long been associated with Halloween and the autumn harvest in the United States, according to legend the term jack-o’-lantern has its origin in an old Irish folktale that goes a little something like this: Once upon a time this fellow named Jack, who was so very, very bad and had stolen from some villagers, was caught by the Devil and told it was his time to die.

Being a cunning sort, Jack conned the Devil into turning himself into a coin with which Jack said he would pay the villagers for the things he had stolen from them, and the Devil would have the chance to procure their souls. As soon as the Devil changed into a coin, Jack put him neatly in his pocket next to a cross, trapping the Devil.

Then Jack made a deal with

the Devil, setting him free on the proviso that he would never take his soul. This gave Jack a licence to menace and he spent the rest of his days sinning like a champ!

But the Devil had the last laugh because when Jack passed away, due to his sinful ways he was barred from heaven and, due to their deal, he was also refused entrance to Hell.

On asking the Devil where then he should go, the Devil threw him an ever-burning ember from Hell and told him to find his own place to stay. From that day to this, Jack wanders earth mournfully seeking a place to rest, the ember from hell burning bright in his lantern, carved from a turnip.

Now I know this is not a pumpkin story as such; the use of pumpkins for jack-o’-lanterns came much later with settlers in America finding them easier to carve than turnips.

GET ‘A-HEAD’ – BEST ON THE BLOCK You will need ◆ A pumpkin ◆ Dessert spoon ◆ Teaspoon ◆ Tea-light candle ◆ A large pot or bowl ◆ And, of course, a sharp knife!

To prepare ◆ First cut a hole around the stalk with the knife at a 45 degree angle, removing the ‘lid’ ◆ Using the tablespoon scoop out loose flesh and seeds ◆ Using a pen draw on the face of your jack-o’-lantern

(if you’re not the greatest of artists, stencils can be downloaded from a number of websites) ◆ Cut out the features of the lantern ◆ Using the tablespoon and knife, scrape away any loose flesh on the inside of the face ◆ With the teaspoon, carefully hollow out a setting for the candle in the bottom of the lantern (to ensure the candle will stay in place) ◆ Place your candle in the hollow, light and replace the lid – And... prepare to be scared!

www.ruralliving.co.nz

18/10/2018 3:42:39 p.m.

SHOWTYM ADVENTURES – CHESSY, THE WELSH PONY Are you keeping up with Showtym Adventures? If so, her latest book is on shelves now! The fourth story in this series, by Kelly Wilson (of Keeping up with the Kaimanawas fame, sees sevenyear-old Amanda setting out to train her own wild pony. Although she’s only little, this gutsy girl is intent on making a Welsh mare her nearest and dearest friend but does she have what it takes?

Kelly Wilson: Showtym Adventures – Chessy, the Welsh Pony | RRP $14.99 | Kelly Wilson

ROSE & PEACH AT THE BEACH We all know we shouldn’t count our chickens before they hatch but, once they have, could they win prizes at Waiau Pa School’s Calf Club Day? In her latest book, Clark’s Beach author, Elaine Blick, tells the endearing story of two precocious chooks hand-reared in time for Calf Club.

For one little girl her two chickens, Rose and Peach, are the most loveable pets in the world. So, when Tracy learns she must part with them, she is heartbroken. Determined to get them back somehow, Tracy finds that he chickens just might come home to roost as this charming story unfolds.

Written to appeal to readers aged six and up, Rose & Peach at the Beach e-books can be downloaded via amazon.co.uk, or contact Elaine (09 232 1727) to order a hard copy.

To read our interview with Elaine, see Rural Living’s June 2017 issue, accessible via ruralliving.co.nz.

Elaine Blick: Rose & Peach at the Beach | RRP $23 plus postage (hard copies)

MINI WHINNY – HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME The littlest horse in the stable, Mini Whinny may be ever so cute but she’s ever so naughty too. In the latest book by Stacy Gregg (bestselling author of The Princess and the Foal, The Island of Lost Horses and The Girl Who Rode the Wind, Mini is poised to steal the birthday show believing the official birthday for all horses should really be all about her. Complete with delightful illustrations

by Ruth Paul, this book is ideal for little ones who’re crazy about horses. Stacy Gregg & Ruth Paul: Mini Whinny – Happy Birthday to Me! | RRP $19.99 | Scholastic NZ

WE’VE GOT A BOAT In 2017, the America’s Cup became New Zealand’s cup once again.

With this book and CD, well-known singer and actor, Jay Laga’aia, celebrates our sailing heritage with a healthy dose of humour as ‘give-it-a-go’ Kiwis prove how fun and hard ‘yakka’ combined can deliver rich rewards. Illustrated by Donovan Bixley, We’ve Got a Boat is perfect for young readers as well as hard case older boaties who are forever young at heart. Jay Laga’aia & Donovan Bixley: We’ve Got a Boat | RRP $21.99 (hardback book & CD) | Scholastic NZ

ITS OUR 10th BIRTHDAY!

TO THANK YOU FOR YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT WE HAVE AN AWESOME GIVEAWAY!

$1200 TRAVEL VOUCHER TO BE WON!*

22 Queen St, Pukekohe www.ruralliving.co.nz

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www.kevenscurtains.co.nz

Ph: 09 2389326

KAT5593-v9

Spend $250 Instore Before Dec 14 And Go In The Draw To Win $1200 Of Travel* *conditions apply

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 31

18/10/2018 3:21:56 p.m.

summer hair here we come Natasha Harris from Alberts Hair Salon talks about keeping hair in tip-top summer condition.

Sedation a big help!

By Yvonne Vannoort, The Dentist

T

hese days you don’t have to high tail out of town when someone mentions the dentist. New treatments and technology can ensure patients are relaxed and comfortable.

As dentists, we get that we need to listen to you, understand what you need from us, and never judge you. We also know that we need to be gentle and caring in what we do and how we go about your experience whether it’s a discussion, an X-ray or any other treatment you may need.

For some people, intravenous sedation is a great technique to use. A sedative is placed in a vein in your arm. It means that you can snooze through whatever procedure is being carried out.

This is a wonderful way to achieve either a lot of treatment in one appointment or when you are scheduled for a difficult treatment and it’s really best you are unaware of what needs to happen.

The time passes very quickly for you and the whole experience is smooth and easy – later on, you won’t remember.

Our team is here to cater to your needs; call us or book online to make your first step towards visiting dentists that really care about you!

All about your wellbeing 5

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

Now Sanctuary Dental Like us Sanctuary Dental The Dentist on Facebook Unit 4 24-34 Seddon St, Pukekohe | 09 238 4619 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

S

ummer is fast approaching! What can be better than warm, sunny days, floral dresses and icy cold lemonades – or a gin & tonic, if you please? That sounds like perfection, if you ask me, however, summer can bring a few challenges to our hair.

Summer heat can damage our locks, give us very oily scalps, and even turn our hair green when in contact with chlorine (yes, this can actually happen). But, fear not! Alberts is here to rescue you and to offer some amazing and simple hair tips! ◆◆Reduce Heat – if you are going to spend a long day in the sun, we recommend applying Miracle Hair Treatment by Eleven. This super hero protects from UVA and UVB, controls frizz and helps prevent split ends but, remember, covering your scalp with a hat is the best protection. ◆◆Limit Chlorine Damage – have you ever heard of green swimmers’ hair? Well, sadly, it actually exists. The key to avoiding that greenish colour and chlorine damage is to prep your hair before taking a pool swim. Since dry hair acts like a sponge, rinse your hair with tap water before your swim in order to ensure it will absorb significantly less chlorine. After the swim, rinsing your hair with some apple cider vinegar and water will limit further chlorine damage.

Miracle Hair Treatment also helps protect hair from chlorine and sun damage. ◆◆Treatments – we see it too often…coloured hair that is ruined and damaged from salt water and sun exposure.

This is because heat and sun oxidise hair colour, leaving our beautiful hair dry. Ensure you are using quality hair care products – we recommend Kevin Murphy which offers an array of wash and rinse options to suit all hair types. Best of all, they are sulphate-free, paraben-free and cruelty-free. ◆◆Drink More Water – we will never hear it enough: drink more water! Not only is it indispensable for your body and mind, but it also does wonders to your hair! Remember that water will always hydrate your hair and scalp. In addition to drinking 2-3 litres of water a day, make sure you are eating delicious, healthy foods to boost hair growth.

“Wishing you a very lovely summer and healthy beautiful hair! “ –Natasha Shop 2/23 Hall St, Pukekohe Phone 09 238 7576 www.alberts.co.nz

KAT5285-v8

32 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

18/10/2018 3:21:57 p.m.

L

c

M f

p f d

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Luxurious

country lifestyle More than an acre of ground surrounded by farms – the perfect combination.

Beautiful landscaped gardens and stunning pool with outdoor living provide the setting for this unique, 1990’s home offering striking design and gracious living.

Here’s a chance to embrace the best of retro style without sacrificing modern amenities.

Sarked, rimu ceilings, and large windows complement the light colour palette throughout this sundrenched, spacious home built with quality a priority.

Four plus large bedrooms, study, media

room, three bathrooms plus the potential to convert one wing into a granny flat or teenage retreat.

Handy to Strathallan College, and Pukekohe township, this exceptional home must be seen to be appreciated.

Extended settlement available if required – terms available.

Scott McElhinnEy 027 210 8887 / 09 237 3125 s.mcelhinney@barfoot.co.nz Pukekohe 09 238 7019

lukE jupp 021 160 8005 / 09 237 3161 l.jupp@barfoot.co.nz Pukekohe 09 238 7019

VIEWING Saturday/Sunday 1-1.30am 41 Speedy Road, Glenbrook www.barfoot.co.nz/762632

Waiuku Theatre Group Inc. presents

AESTHETIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE PLASTIC SURGERY

Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery by a Specialist Plastic Surgeon

BY ANTHONY MCCARTEN & STEPHEN SINCLAIR Directed by MELISSA CHARBEONNEAU THURS, FRI & SAT NIGHTS AT 8PM FRI 23 NOVEMBER - SAT 8 DECEMBER; MATINEE SUN 2 DECEMBER AT 2PM

REMUERA

TAURANGA

PUKEKOHE

NEW PLYMOUTH

Auckland Plastic Surgical Centre Level 2, OneHealth Building 122 Remuera Road, Auckland Tel: 09 522 0652 Pukekohe Plastic Surgical Centre 10 West Street Pukekohe Tel: 09 522 0652

DINNER SHOW WITH 3 COURSE MEAL!

Tauranga Plastic Surgical Centre Suite 9, Promed House 71 Tenth Ave, Tauranga South Tel: 09 522 0652 NP Plastic Surgical Centre Care First Building 99 Tukapa Street, New Plymouth Tel: 027 431 5152

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

RL October-November 2018.indd 33

SHOW ONLY $20 OR $180 TABLE OF 10 DINNER & SHOW $60 OR $580 TABLE OF 10

WAIUKU WAR MEMORIAL HALL, QUEEN ST, WAIUKU IN CONJUNCTION WITH

For more info or bookings contact 020 4148 9219 wtgtickets@gmail.com or visit www.waiukutheatre.org MATURE AUDIENCES

KAT5898

www.ruralliving.co.nz

FRI 23 & SAT 24 NOVEMBER, FRI 7 & SAT 8 DECEMBER AT 6.30PM

TICKETS

KAT6255

Consulting in Auckland, Pukekohe, Tauranga and New Plymouth

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 33

18/10/2018 3:21:56 p.m.

Panfried tarakihi There’s nothing quite like a fishy ‘tail,’ – the kind that also tells a story about delicious vege – so appropriate in a district renowned for its produce. Perfect for family or friends make this one for a relaxed summer evening.

MAORI (TAEWA) PURPLE POTATO, CAULIFLOWER, GREEN PEAS AND LEMON BUTTER SAUCE Serves 4

INGREDIENTS ◆ 750g tarakihi fish ◆ 80ml oil ◆ 4 tbsp butter ◆ Juice from 4 lemons ◆ 500g peeled and sliced Maori potato ◆ 4 sprigs thyme leaves ◆ 160g green peas ◆ 200g cauliflower florets blanched in hot water ◆ 4 cloves crushed garlic ◆ Salt and pepper to taste ◆ 8 basil leaves

METHOD Heat oil in a pan, sauté garlic, potatoes and thyme. Cover and cook on a slow flame turning once in between. Add seasoning as per taste and keep warm.

Heat oil in a pan, sear the fish seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for three minutes on each side or until just done.

Sauté cauliflower and green peas quickly in a pan. Season and keep aside.

Melt butter in warm (not hot!) pan.

Add lemon juice to the butter and warm briefly mixing all the way slowly. Adjust seasoning.

Arrange cooked Maori potatoes in the centre of a plate, place tarakihi fish on top, arrange green peas and cauliflower around, drizzle warm lemon butter sauce over. Garnish with basil leaves.

MUSHROOMS BROUGHT TO LIGHT Owner of Out of the Dark Mushrooms, Phil Matheson not only grows mushrooms but he’s a dab hand in the kitchen too (see article page 28-29). Naturally, mushrooms are frequently on his menu so we asked Phil to provide Rural Living with a recipe featuring two of his favourite mushrooms – shiitake and enoki. So, here it is – enjoy!

34 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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SHIITAKE AND BOK CHOY INGREDIENTS ◆ 3 cloves of garlic ◆ 2 tsp ginger ◆ 3 bok choy ◆ 250g fresh shiitake, sliced ◆ 50g white enoki, separated METHOD Halve bok choy (slice in half or quarter them) Rinse, then pat dry. Thinly slice garlic and finely chop ginger. Set aside.

Heat a wok over medium-high heat with vegetable oil. When hot, add garlic and ginger, quickly season with a small pinch of sea salt and stir-fry until fragrant.

Add sliced shiitake mushrooms.

Continue stirring and flipping for another minute until the mushrooms are soft. Add a bit more oil if the pan feels a bit dry.

Add bok choy and cook until the colour turns light green yet still crisp, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt to taste.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds, white enoki and drizzle with 1 tsp sesame oil before serving. www.ruralliving.co.nz

18/10/2018 3:22:15 p.m.

Hot Spots MAXWELL’S EAT.PLAY.STAY Come and enjoy idyllic country dining overlooking 20 stunning acres of manicured golf course at Maxwells – Eat. Play. Stay. Owner Kaye Maxwell, a former NZ Champion and NZ Golf Coach wants patrons to enjoy a ‘(w)hole in one’ experience whether they are dining, playing or staying a few days. Café open Wed-Sun, 10-3pm and for dinner on Friday & Sunday evenings. Bookings preferred. Saturdays available for group bookings and private functions. Located off Great South Rd near St Stephen’s College.

205B Ingram Rd, Bombay Ph 09 236 0911 kaye@maxwellsgolf.co.nz www.eatplaystay.nz

PORTOBELLO

Mention this advert and receive a FREE coffee

Pukekohe’s best kept secret....With a splash of sophistication Portobello Fine Restaurant boasts great food, an exquisite wine and beverage collection and the assurance of great customer satisfaction. Nestled at the top of Ed St this gem guarantees “Blow Away” customer experience every time.

Situated in the competitive South Auckland food district, we understand the need for quality and value for money. With this in mind we have developed a very generous, costeffective, modern cuisine-styled menu.

KAT6125-v2

Valid Wed-Fri

27 Edinburgh Street, Pukekohe Phone 09 238 1143, info@edinburghstreet.co.nz www.edinburghstreet.co.nz KAT6277

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.

Plus dinner theatre at its best – check our website.

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

Red Shed

SUNDAY MARKET 9am-4pm Now serving ice cream!

KAT5299-v9

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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CANOPIUS Canopius as always is bringing the finest, freshest and freerange product to the area’s surrounding Papakura. Paired with our 100% fair-trade, organic coffee for the best brunch in the South. Be it a Canopius burger or one of our delicious winter soups for lunch or our savoury black waffles for brunch, Canopius’ focus on high quality is sure to please. Whether you’re choosing your favourite from our menu, or grabbing something from the extensive cabinet selection, Canopius will cater to what drives your hunger.

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

KAT5233-v6

Palazzo

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 35

18/10/2018 3:22:06 p.m.

Will Combridge (be)come a-cropper?

By Jon Rawlinson

W

hen the dust (and dirt) settles at the final in Pukekohe, Kae Combridge hopes he’ll have landed this year’s Young Horticulturalist of the Year crown.

However, the Drury-based Luijtens Landscaping apprentice remains realistic about his chances and knows he’ll have to be at the top of his game.

“I’m going to be the dark horse, a wildcard. I don’t feel too confident about taking first place, to be honest. But, at the end of the day, I will have [competed] knowing that I’ve prepared myself the best that I can,” he says.

To be held at the PIA Events Centre, the final (November 7) will see competitors engage in a range of practical challenges.

The competition is designed to nurture and develop future

36 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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leaders in the horticultural industry.

Qualifying for the event by winning Young Landscaper of the Year in June, Kae will compete against other rising stars including the Young Grower of the Year, Apprentice Florist of the Year, Young Viticulturist of the Year and more.

“I’ll need to focus on the practical side of the competition, and shoring up my weaknesses to be an all-rounder and get a consistent placing in each component,” he says. “[Ahead of the competition] I’ll be focusing on plant and general horticulture knowledge, in particular.”

Originally from West Auckland, Kae was attracted to a career in landscape design due to the hands-on nature of the profession.

“Having worked a range of jobs after high school and tried university – an expensive lesson! – I realised that I didn’t like sitting in a classroom all day.

I worked with a landscaping company and really enjoyed it and, as good landscapers are highly sought after, it has the potential to provide skills for life,” he says.

“I joined Luijtens with a solid foundation but working with the veteran landscapers there has helped to consolidate and expand my skills and methods.”

The variety of work involved with his trade will, no doubt, help ensure Kae is up with the play during the coming contest.

“From week to week, there is so much variety in the projects. I enjoy (and spend almost all) of my time on the tools and currently I’m focused on hard landscaping, retaining, decking and paving. The plant side of it has crept back into my attention lately and it is something I need to work on for the competition.”

Aside from bragging rights, this year’s Young Horticulturist of the Year will claim a $7500 travel and accommodation package with a $5500 Massey scholarship awarded to the runner-up.

Additional prizes are on the line for the best Market Innovation Project and Practical Components.

For more information about the competition see younghort.co.nz. www.ruralliving.co.nz Photo Wayne Martin

18/10/2018 3:51:54 p.m.

Vital support

PANICKED PET? SILBERHORN HAS THE CALMING ANSWER

FOR BIRD RECOVERY

A

When 17th century activist Guy Fawkes tried to blow up England’s parliament, it’s unlikely he gave a thought to the effect a big bang would have on household pets. But the team at leading animal health care company, Silberhorn understands just how stressful loud noises, such as those heard during the now annual celebration of Guy Fawkes, can be on loved cats, dogs and other pets.

Just like their owners, pets often have to deal with anxiety caused from situations they cannot control – that loud party next door, a long trip by car or plane, winter storms and, of course, all those booming, banging, cracking sounds of fireworks exploding on Guy Fawkes night and often New Year’s Eve! The good news is, Silberhorn has developed a natural solution to help pets deal with all those stressful events. Based on the same herbal ingredients found in Silberhorn Sleepwell capsules for pet owners, PetCalm features a range of natural, nonnarcotic herbs to help calm your pet.

Used successfully by kennel proprietors to calm their boarders, PetCalm can assist pets in many situations including moving house – we all know cats in particular often dislike car travel and they can become fretful when removed from familiar territory. PetCalm combines hops, skullcap, valerian, St John’s wort and passiflora extract plus capsicum powder as a transport herb – all of which work to reduce nervousness.

Try some with your pet next time they face a stressful situation or need a relaxed night’s sleep!

Silberhorn PetCalm is available at all good pet stores and via www.silberhorn.co.nz or phone 0800 502 402.

Viewings welcome by appointment

751 Clevedon-Kawakawa Rd, Clevedon Phone 027 222 0307 info@fairfieldpetlodge.nz - www.fairfieldpetlodge.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

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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

bird in the hand may not necessarily be worth two in the bush but thanks to pharmaceutical company, Bayer renewing its three-year sponsorship agreement with the Whangarei Native Bird Recovery Centre, thousands of injured Northland birds may well find their way back to their natural habitat after first being taken in hand.

The sponsorship consists of financial support plus contributions of Bayer animal health products used by the Centre’s veterinarian team to treat injured or sick birds.

Bird centre manager, Robert Webb says much of the work done to save birds, including safeguarding our national icon, could not have been done without Bayer’s long standing support.

“Bayer was one of the first big corporate companies to come on board and start supporting the centre nearly 17 years ago.

“Since then we’ve had nothing but continued assistance [from the company], which not only includes financial sponsorship for general operating costs, but also contributions towards items such as our surgery and incubation unit, a new boat, GPS equipment, computers, fencing, hospital equipment and much more.”

The centre’s operations include: ◆ Rescuing, caring for and rehabilitating more than 1200 birds each year ◆ Helping save the kiwi by being part of the kiwi recovery programme in conjunction with the Department of Conservation ◆ Running education programmes for some 6000 school children ◆ Fostering environmental consciousness in Northland’s communities ◆ Ongoing care of birds with permanent injuries ◆ Incubating kiwi eggs and rearing chicks until they can be released into the wild ◆ Providing free access to the Bird Recovery Centre for the public.

Bayer New Zealand managing director, Derek Bartlett says “The principles of the native bird recovery centre are very much in line with Bayer’s responsibilities for sustainable development, both in conservation and education, as well as our interests in animal health and welfare.”

“We continue to be impressed by the amazing work that Robert and his wife Robyn do at the bird centre and we are proud to support them.”

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 37

18/10/2018 3:22:18 p.m.

Help videos

Volume calculator

Product info

Landscape project tips

We dig our new website.

Packed with helpful tips for your outdoors including: • Help videos • A calculator for the volume of products • Easy enquiry options to know more about products • Packed with information to help with landscape projects

Visit your local yard: Central Landscape Supplies Drury Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 7am - 5pm, Saturday: 8am - 4pm, Sunday: 9am - 1pm 38 — Rural Living — October/November 2018 www.centrallandscapes.co.nz

www.ruralliving.co.nz Auckland • 09 294 8410 • 141 Great South Rd, Drury, KAT5290-v12

Full page ad - November 2018 FINAL.indd 1 RL October-November 2018.indd 38

9/10/18 8:01 PM 18/10/2018 3:22:11 p.m.

Central’s Tips Keen on growing ‘Mitrey’, mega pumpkins? By offering up quite the harvest of prizes – up to $300 for the biggest of the bunch – Mitre 10 Mega Pukekohe has provided an ideal incentive to ensure locals get growing. Entries will be judged at February’s Counties Power Pukekohe Show. For details see pukekoheshowgrounds.co.nz.

In the meantime, the Franklin A&P Society has provided these handy tips for growing tip-top (and potentially awardwinning) pumpkins. ◆◆Pumpkins prefer a full sun location, sheltered from wind. ◆◆Dig one metre deep holes, 3-4 metres apart, and blend in well rotted manure and mulch. The end result should be a raised mound which will settle down over time. A generous amount of a balanced fertiliser should also be applied well in advance into the mounds. ◆◆Sow seeds or transplant out after last frosts have passed – traditionally during Labour Weekend or soon afterwards. ◆◆Keep well watered to encourage deep rooting and vigorous growth. ◆◆When the plants start to run, bury the vine with only the leaf and half the leaf stalk showing, making the plant put down more roots from the base of each leaf axial, anchoring the plant and helping the uptake of water and nutrients. ◆◆When the fruit start to set, thin to the single best fruit on each vine. Pumpkins can put on up to 5kg weight daily if watered well through the summer months so soak well (ideally first thing in the morning) every day. ◆◆Place a thick layer of straw, shredded newspaper or cardboard under the small fruit to help prevent rot setting in on the underside. ◆◆Pumpkins will have reached its maximum size when the vine starts to die back down, usually after 120 days. Fruit colour can vary from yellow to orange and the skin is slightly rough. ◆◆Cut the pumpkin from the vine leaving a wick at least 20cm long. Slide a large strong board underneath and lift.

r .

m www.ruralliving.co.nz

It’s starting to feel like summer is just around the corner - now’s the time to plant the tender crops, keep an eye on citrus for pests and tidy up gardens and outdoors by removing old blooms, trimming perennials and mulching.

In the Veggie Patch • Tender crops can go in now – runner beans, basil, corn and melons

• Check your citrus trees for colonies of scale, whitefly and aphids, particularly on the tips or backs of the foliage. If there’s an infestation, spray with Conqueror Oil, (summer strength) when the bushes are not in full sun

• Water fruit trees and vegetable plants regularly – if the area is dry and windy, mulch to aid water retention

Lawns • Combination weed-and-feed lawn products can be used now, but it is important to follow the instructions closely

• This is the right month to apply Aquaturf Max G to help water penetrate to the roots of lawns that tend to dry out over summer

The rest of the Garden • Remove or spray weeds such as ivy and convolvulus

• Neaten the look of camellias and azaleas

by removing fallen blooms. It also helps to reduce the risk of spreading petal blight

• Mulch everything ahead of the hot, dry summer season

• Time to divide and re-pot water lilies and give the pond/water feature a good clean-up

• Trim perennials that will look great again in the

new year: lavenders, daisies, pulmonarias and catmint all look great with fresh growth on them KAT5290A-v12

Pumped up, kids?

November 2018

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 39

KAT5290-v12

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18/10/2018 3:22:17 p.m.

Good news comes in twos

By Kylie Bosanac, Nick Bosanac Builders

I

Windows & Doors for all seasons At Franklin Aluminium we pride ourselves on our top-notch service and comprehensive product offering. We also have one of the most modern and extensive showrooms in Pukekohe.

Our customers have the choice of a range of mainstream residential windows and doors, as well as our other ranges like our Metro Series and the APL Architectural Series.

Decades of experience

•

Residential & Metro displays

•

Modern showroom

•

•

ThermalHEART product available

We are always keen to talk, and provide a quote

franklinfirst.co.nz

KAT5305-v2

•

PH 09 238 8828

BUILT ON A SOLID PAST, SHAPING THE FUTURE

t’s true you know, good things come in pairs – jelly & ice cream, Batman & Robin, shoes & handbags, spring & summer – great combinations lead to grand conclusions. And, this is definitely the case for us here at Nick Bosanac Builders. We have a great pair of announcements we want to share with you!

Firstly, we are pleased to announce the opening our very first show home at Paerata Rise on December 1, 2018! We’d love you to join us from 11am as we reveal our home at the opening of this new community!

Our home highlights our guiding philosophy of Building Beautiful Futures. Your home is a reflection of who you are; it’s where your family’s future unfolds and that should look and feel beautiful. We design and build your home to be unique, as you are; to meet your wants, needs and budget. From frames to finishing touches, our show home showcases this.

Built by the same great team and tradies we use on all our builds, we hope it surprises and inspires you as we share a bit of who we are as a family and a company. So, lock the date into your diary and come down and visit us in our new location!

Secondly, we are excited to introduce you to our newest team member! Welcome Bonita Lim! As our new home consultant, Bonita’s role is to work alongside clients to ensure their vision for their new home is understood and conveyed correctly to the designers as they build a proposal for everything included in the build and then pass to the build team who makes it all a reality.

Bonita is a fantastic addition to our team, bringing with her a warm, witty personality and a strong background in the building industry, specifically with bespoke home design consultation.

So, not only does her personality fit with our team, her passion for homes fits with ours too. She has a great capacity to listen to client dreams and goals. She’ll help them navigate an often daunting process in order to bring these dreams to life. Working with Nick and I, and our build teams, she will help ensure a successful outcome.

Come and meet her, and our team, at our show home opening celebrations. We can’t wait to share our great combination with you. We look forward to seeing you there!

Building and transporting homes for 80 years:

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.

We Build Beautiful Homes.

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

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

Licensed, Quality Builders Off Plan & Custom Built Homes Modern and historical home experience Attention to detail We manage it all, design to finish!

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Let us build your Forever Home www.bosanacbuilders.co.nz CR0184

40 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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09 236 8413

021 989 636

KAT5302

Rural Homes / Holiday Homes / Lifestyle Homes / Investment Properties

Tell us your Keith Hay Homes Story

nick@bosanacbuilders.co.nz

www.ruralliving.co.nz

18/10/2018 3:22:20 p.m.

PLASTIC PUNNETS GET THE HEAVE-HO

T

here’s a new buzz in the tomato world – no, not those good natured bumble bees so often relied on to pollinate tomato vines – but a fresh packaging makeover for the bee-pollinated tomato brand Beekist®.

The new – or should that be old – way comes in the form of cardboard and is replacing plastic punnets. The move will remove 5.5 million plastic punnets from supermarket shelves – that’s about 100 tonnes less plastic for Kiwis to take home every year.

The cardboard punnets will be home to the range of Beekist® tomatoes including Angel®, Tasty Mix™, Jellybean™, Melody™, Heritage, Farmers Harvest, Sunshine Mix, Chefs Selection and the new Kumato®.

The move to more sustainable

punnets, which are 98% plastic free, is part of parent company, Turners & Growers commitment to the environment and its belief that the less tinkering done to Mother Nature, the better.

A 100% cardboard punnet is in the pipeline, as part of the company’s sustainability journey although, for now, customers will have to separate and recycle the small plastic window on the punnet individually.

Executive general manager of T&G, Andrew Keaney says sustainable packaging is a major strategic focus for the company which is building a strategy

to ensure this goal is achieved across the business and with its key suppliers.

For less sting on the environment, T&G is encouraging people to separate the window of the punnet from the cardboard before popping the cardboard into their recycle bin. The plastic window can be dropped at local soft plastic recycle stations.

Visit recycling.kiwi.nz/solutions/softplastics/store-locator to find a local soft plastic recycle station.

The Beekist® range, in new cardboard punnets, are 100% recyclable and are available at supermarkets now.

SPRING MARKET SLOW TO KICK OFF

By Darren Szaszy, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe

S

ales volumes in the Franklin area for the past three months are down by 22% on the same three month period last year. Bare land sales were up from last year with 25% of recorded sales being bare land, which is a 6% increase over the same period last year.

A lack of listings over the winter months was most definitely a contributing factor to the lower sales numbers in the area.

Auckland-wide there was a marked

increase in the number of lifestyle properties sold, with the average price being $1.36 million. Lifestyle properties to the south of Auckland represent good buying when compared to current residential values.

The rest of the country saw the lowest sales volumes in eight months, a result of extremely low listings in July reports REINZ. The low number of new listings in July meant the number of houses sold in New Zealand during September decreased by -3.% year-on-year.

This was the lowest level number of properties sold since January this year, according to the latest data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ), The number of properties sold across the country fell from 5674 in

September 2017 to 5506 in September this year – 168 fewer properties that last year. This was the lowest for the month of September since September 2011.

Traditionally there is a lag of about six weeks between significant movements in listings and sales results. With July listings down by 5.4% year-on-year, and an alltime low level of listings in seven regions, it’s little wonder that September’s sales volumes were so low. There simply weren’t as many properties for sale, resulting in a very quiet start to spring.

However, with August and September’s listing numbers up 0.1% and 11.7% respectively, it is expected that October and November’s sales volumes will be much stronger – particularly as people want to sell ahead of Christmas.

KAT6238

www.ruralliving.co.nz

RL October-November 2018.indd 41

Rural Living — October/November 2018 — 41

18/10/2018 3:22:28 p.m.

The Countryside Begins with Townsend...

If your property needs repair or you’re considering a few renovation projects to get it ready for sale, there are a few things you need to consider first.

Although well-planned, cost-effective renovations can add value to a home, there is always the risk of overcapitalising.

That’s why it pays to consider the types of renovations that add value and appeal to potential buyers.

Remember, renovating for your own personal use and renovating to attract a wide range of potential buyers are two different things. It all comes down to your return on investment or ROI. Check your margins – If your property isn’t in desperate need of repair and you’re confident you have a decent amount of equity existing in your property, renovations may not be necessary. Especially if after crunching the numbers, you’re not confident you would be increasing the sale price by that much, and remember a return on investment can never be guaranteed.

A general rule of thumb is to spend no more than 10% of the property’s value on the alterations. Any more than this, and you risk over-capitalising.

So, the first step would be to ensure you have an up-to-date valuation of your property, undertaken by a professional. The next step would be to work out a budget, and ensure you add a buffer in case of unforeseen additional expenses.

Do you need a quick sale? – Most renovations take time, to plan and budget for as well as to be completed.

So, if you’re looking to sell soon, renovations may not be possible.

Remember too, that renovations

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

When not to renovate

often go over budget and can take longer than anticipated so factor all these considerations into your decision.

Who are you renovating for? – Some renovations appeal to most buyers, such as a kitchen or bathroom upgrade, but others are personal to you and your needs, taste and style and therefore won’t appeal to the largest number of potential buyers.

For example adding extensions such as granny flats, converting bedrooms into specific-purpose rooms like a media room or library, and separating rooms by adding additional internal walls.

Who are you selling to? – This is where research is key. What is the demographic of your property’s neighbourhood? Mostly singles and couples? Mostly retirees or mostly families? Finding out who the neighbourhood is likely to attract will help you determine suitable renovations and not so suitable ones. For example if your potential buyer is most likely an investor, keep renovations to a minimum as they will almost certainly have their own plans and your changes may add no value to them at all.

Ask if you’re unsure – When planning a renovation, don’t shy away from asking Jo-Ann for her opinion on the condition of the property, the type of buyer the home is likely to attract, what similar homes in similar condition are selling for and any renovations they would recommend.

You may be surprised, if your home isn’t in need of massive renovations Jo-Ann will tell you and you may save yourself a lot of hassle, time and money.

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

Waiuku, 242 Hull Road

Offer accepted elsewhere – Sale Urgent Tucked on the outskirts of Waiuku and yet close enough for a coffee, this lifestyle property is yearning for a new owner. A cute home with three bedrooms, open plan living and good garaging. This could be just what you are searching for.

Looking out over the farm land the home is prime to be your slice of paradise. Take advantage of the vendors desire to move, come and view before this is sold.

To view an ebook and find out more abut this property – email jo-ann.day-townsend@harcourts.co.nz

42 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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KAT5307-v11

So don’t delay, you will miss out, contact Jo-Ann Day-Townsend 021 1696 056 www.ruralliving.co.nz

18/10/2018 3:22:25 p.m.

.

ts ly ur al co 10 on

What’s up with D. O’C...

With a number of portfolios, Minister of Agriculture, Damien O’Connor, has a lot on his plate. Luckily, it seems, it’s no more than this suited (or gumbooted) West Coast farmer can chew, as these news bites (based on reports from his office) suggest.

M.bovis blitz succeeding?

Eradication of cattle disease, Mycoplasma bovis, is making strong progress, our Minister of Agriculture asserts.

“Working closely with our farming industry partners, the Government remains confident eradication is on-track and we have a good chance of success,” Mr O’Connor said.

“Newly identified properties [do] not mean the disease is spreading...we are tracing historically infected cattle and milk movements, many of which occurred before the disease was discovered.”

Of New Zealand’s 24,000 farms, 74 have been infected to date with 36 subsequently destocked and cleared of Mycoplasma bovis, he confirms.

Along with the Prime Minister, Mr O’Connor outlined a recovery package designed to help affected farms; administered by DairyNZ and Beef+LambNZ, a compensation assistance team will provide reimbursement for lost stock and earnings, the pair intends.

Fines (wel)fare?

Hitting those who mistreat animals in the pocket will help curtail abuse, our agriculture minister expects.

“Whether you are a farmer or live on a lifestyle block, own a pet... transport livestock or ride a horse, the regulations apply to you,” Mr O’Connor said.

“While most people care for their animals and are already doing it right, the regulations make it easier to take action against animal mistreatment and target specific behaviours that need to change.”

Animal welfare inspectors can now issue set fines for certain infringements while others can result in prosecution, larger fines and criminal convictions.

“Farmers need to be aware of the new regulations, which cover on-farm practices and transporting livestock. Most of the regulations reflect existing farm practices but a few set new requirements.

“Many transport-related regulations apply to farmers selecting lame, sick or injured stock, so farmers should check they are doing it right or face a $500 fine.”

In particular, farmers need to be up to speed with changes, Mr O’Connor adds.

To view the regulations in their entirety, see mpi.govt.nz/animalregs.

‘Us’ & ‘them’ Right Hon John (aka former PM) Key turned up the Rugby World Cup fanfare with comments regarding a “stadium of four million”. But it will take a “biosecurity team of 4.7 million” to score a win for biosecurity, Mr O’Connor contends.

“As we attempt to eradicate M.bovis... keep the brown marmorated stink bug out, and deal with Myrtle rust and Kauri dieback, now is the time for every New Zealander to stand up and take action on biosecurity,” he said during the launch of

the ‘This Is Us’ campaign.

“The campaign includes a beautiful and thought-provoking video, featuring a kuia looking back on her life and urging [us] to understand that everything that shapes our way of life is finite and fragile,” Mr O’Connor added.

“It also focuses on appropriate biosecurity behaviours and actions.”

Facing change Mr O’Connor was not letting gas pass unchallenged when speaking to an international audience of agriculture experts.

“Agriculture contributes to climate change, producing about 12% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and is heavily affected by climate change with more extreme weather events, unpredictable yields and variable productivity,” he said during a speech at the International Conference on Agricultural GHG Emissions and Food Security.

However, as the world’s population grows at an increasing rate, agricultural production will need to follow suit.

“Another 2.3 billion people will join the global population by 2050 [so] we will need to produce more food in the next 50 years, than in the past 500,” he said.

“We need to reduce agricultural emissions, while maintaining strong economies and productive and resilient sectors capable of meeting the food demand of an exponentially growing world population.”

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44 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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46 — Rural Living — October/November 2018

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48 — Rural Living — October/November 2018