Times/EastLife - 13 September 2023

Farida Master 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz

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Janine Hickmore 09 271 8023 janine@times.co.nz

Diana Honey 09 271 8050 dianah@times.co.nz Kelly Cooke 09 271 8026 kellyc@times.co.nz

DESIGN Claire Robertson clairer@times.co.nz

LAW CHANGE MOOTED

 By CHRIS HARROWELL

Ayoung woman’s brutal murder by an east Auckland man has led the Labour Party to announce it will strengthen laws relating to stalking and harassment if re-elected to Government.

As the Times recently reported, Kanwarpal Singh, who lived in East Tamaki, was sentenced in the Auckland High Court in August to serve a minimum of 17 years in prison for the murder of Farzana Yaqubi.The summary of facts in the case shows Yaqubi contacted police about Singh’s “harassing” behaviour on multiple occasions prior to her death.

Singh, 30, was working as a security guard in Auckland CBD in September, 2020, while Yaqubi, 21, was a student at Auckland University of Technology.

On one occasion she passed Singh’s workplace and he struck up a conversation with her and invited her on a coffee date.

Following this he began to continuously message her via social media. “As a result, she blocked Singh on her social media accounts,” the court document states. In 2021 and 2022, Singh created multiple new social media accounts and contacted Ms Yaqubi on these. Singh began threatening Ms Yaqubi via these accounts.”

He threatened to kidnap her and to throw acid on her face.

Singh added Yaqubi’s family members and friends on social media in an attempt to contact her. On October 25 last year she made an online report to police about his “harassing” behaviour.

One day in early December, Yaqubi noticed Singh following her at an Auckland shopping centre and approached a security guard for assistance.

Singh used social media the next day to send her a video taken outside her home address.

Yaqubi went to a police station in west Auckland and made

a statement about his “stalking” behaviour. On December 19, she finished work and caught a bus to the west Auckland suburb of Royal Heights. She got off the bus and entered an alleyway beside Waitakere Badminton Centre, the court document states.

Singh was waiting for her in his car parked behind the building.

He approached her while carrying a large knife. Yaqubi saw him and tried to phone police.

Thank you for feedback

Thank you for your feedback on our draft Local Board Plan

The public consultation on our draft Local Board Plan closed on Monday, August 14. Thank you to everyone who provided their feedback and views. We’re analysing what you’ve told us and will finalise this strategic plan before the end of October.

Delivering what the community has asked for We’re pleased to report that on Thursday, August 17, the Howick Local Board approved our community and environmental work programmes.

These provide the budget and direction for staff to deliver events and activities through

June 2024.

While there have been some reductions to our budget along with increased costs, we’ve worked hard to balance our budget to deliver a wide range of programmes and activities. Some highlights from our new work programmes:

• Continued operational funding for Arts Out East, Uxbridge, Howick Historical Village, local bands and theatres to provide financial stability for these groups.

• Keeping Kauri Kids Howick early childhood education centre open until June 2024, allowing more time to explore alternative options.

• Enabling our Celebrating

Cultures event to run annually, providing an opportunity to celebrate the cultural diversity that we’re so fortunate to have in our area.

• Ongoing support for the Howick Youth Council who continue to deliver a range of self-directed youth centric programmes and activities.

• Establishing a permanent dedicated youth facility and appropriate programmes following on from last year’s successful pilot.

• Increased funding for environmental restoration programmes including our stream improvement programme and the award-winning Pest Free Howick.

Singh stabbed her multiple times in the stomach and chest.

As Yaqubi fell to the ground screaming, Singh stood over her and continued stabbing her before fleeing in his vehicle. She tragically died at the scene.

Prime Minister and Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins announced on September 7 that if his party is re-elected at this year’s general election it will strengthen legal protections against stalking and harassment.

He says it will also add an extra 300 police officers, further crackdown on gang leaders and disruptive gang convoys, and review the reparation system to speed up payments for victims.

“We will go further for victims in relation to stalking and harassment by modernising our laws, to bring them in line with overseas jurisdictions,” Hipkins says.

“This will include exploring the possibility of creating an offence for stalking with a penalty of imprisonment.”

• Continued support for our school waste minimisation, construction waste enforcement and industrial pollution prevention programmes.

• Additional support for local business associations to promote and grow the local economy including supporting local business awards.

Significant capital investment to bring existing assets up to standard including local playgrounds, carparks and footpaths.

Farzana Yaqubi was stalked by her killer before he stabbed her to death in Auckland on December 19 last year. Photo supplied

Chair of the Howick Local Board Damian Light

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Units to replace leaky buildings when children’s charity moves “

An east Auckland charity that supports at-risk children has sold its property as its buildings are leaky and need replacing.

As the Times recently reported, a property developer is proposing to build more than 90 residential units on a 1.4 hectare block of land in Pigeon Mountain Road near Half Moon Bay Marina.

The site’s Auckland Council property valuation, as of June 2021, was $24 million.

It’s a short distance from the marina and borders Pigeon Mountain Road, Ara Tai, and Compass Point Way.

A resource consent application for the development project states it entails construction of 92 terraced units across 26 blocks on the corner section.

The property is presently occupied by the Stand for Children charity, which provides a wraparound service for at-risk children.

Dr Fiona Inkpen is the organisation’s chief executive.

She says it’s a nationwide organisation focused on ensuring children and families are safe, recover from past trauma, reconnect with each other, and together ensure a positive future.

“We provide services that meet an important need for effective childhood trauma recovery and building family resilience in Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland),” Inkpen says.

“The buildings of our Children’s Village and regional office in Half Moon Bay in Auckland are leaky buildings, out of warranty and need replacing. Some time ago our board made the decision to sell the property in

Half Moon Bay and we will be relocating our services in 2025.”

Inkpen says ease of access is a “big factor” when dealing with issues of safety and the complex needs of children and families.

“Our new facility planned for Manukau will give Stand Tu Maia (Stand for Children) the chance to better meet the needs of our communities, collaborate more closely with our partners, and if needed, expand services further.

“Critical to our planning is to provide continuity of service during the relocation.

“Until we relocate, it is business as usual and all children

and families currently working with Stand Tu Maia will continue to receive services.”

Inkpen says new referrals to the organisation continue to be welcomed.

“When we make the move in 2025, we will ensure we provide continuity of services for all tamariki (children), mokopuna (grandchildren) and whanau (families) engaged in Stand Tu Maia services, or on our waitlist.”

The proposed development’s resource consent application states all buildings and parking areas presently on the land will be demolished to make way for the residential units.

Each unit is allocated at least one parking space within or in close proximity to it.

Dwellings in nine of the blocks are allocated two parking spaces “with a variety of uncovered parking spaces, and internallyaccessed garages”.

A pre-application meeting was held with the council in December last year.

That resulted in a change from the development having two vehicle access points, off Pigeon Mountain Road and Compass Point Way, which the council did not support.

The vehicle access point off Pigeon Mountain Road was subsequently removed from the proposal.

The resource consent application is on hold while it awaits further information from the applicant.

A render of how residential units proposed for a well-known site in Half Moon Bay will look once completed. Image supplied

We will be relocating our services in 2025.”

– FIONA INKPEN

Howick Local Board Grants has the community covered

Diverse communities of Howick set to dance to a new beat as grants help provide an opportunity to do wonderful things.

Local groups in Howick are being encouraged to apply for financial support of up to $3000 through the Howick Local Board 2023/2024 Grants Programme.

Local board chair Damian Light says, “We’re delighted to once again offer local groups the opportunity to seek financial support through our Community Grants Programme. In the past locals have successfully used these grants to provide amazing outcomes for our

diverse communities so we’re proud to be able to continue this programme.”

The grants will support programmes or projects that meet one or more of the boards outcomes:

• targeted at supporting people in the community to feel safe, engaged and connected well planned public spaces that support active, healthy and sustainable lifestyles

• heritage, local arts and cultural diversity are valued the natural environment is protected, restored and enhanced

• a prosperous local economy supporting business growth

and opportunity

• and effective and accessible transport choices.

Higher priority is based on events or activities that are held in the local board area and demonstrate the benefit to the local community, and recovery from significant weather events.

“We’re fortunate to have such a diverse range of community groups and organisations in our area delivering an incredible range of programmes and activities,” says Light.

“We know that sometimes there are unavoidable costs (like venue hire) and we’re pleased we can remove some

of the financial barriers to enable our community groups to thrive.”

Grants allow the board to support community-led initiatives and create positive change in the community, support that in the 2022-23 financial year saw $435,149.69 shared by 114 groups.

Grants

“While budget cuts and financial pressures have meant we’ve had to reduce our total community grants fund for 2023/2024, we’ve worked hard to ensure that we were able to provide a healthy fund for this year’s programme”, says Light.

Quick response grants are generally for $300 to $3,000 and are offered more frequently, up to five times a year. Applications open from 09 October 2023 to 03 November 2023, and support work in the same areas.

Grant applications must align with the board’s funding priorities. More grants details here.

For more details visit the Auckland Council website and search Howick Board Local Grants - https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/

Cost of living a big concern

There are just 31 days to go until the election, and I’m on the campaign trail nearly every day with the National Party team.

Travelling around the country, it is clear most New Zealanders’ worries are the same as they are here in Botany, with the state of the economy and the cost of living top of mind.

National has a plan to rebuild the economy. We will stop wasteful spending, cut red tape, build infrastructure, drive technology and innovation, support trade and investment and grow skills and talent in New Zealand.

A working economy means New Zealand can afford the quality public services we all rely on.

Part of our plan to grow the economy is provide hard-working New Zealanders

with tax relief. New Zealand should be a country where, if you work hard, you can get ahead. But after years of economic mismanagement by Labour, topped off by two years of rampant inflation, huge increases in interest rates and a shrinking economy, most Kiwis are going backwards. In particular, the squeezed middle is being left behind. These are New Zealanders who work hard, sometimes juggling multiple jobs and family responsibilities, but inflation and high tax rates are eating away their incomes.

That’s why we recently announced National’s Back Pocket Boost tax relief plan which will increase after-tax pay for the squeezed middle, making

a family on the average income of $120,000, with young kids in childcare, up to $250 a fortnight better off, and an average-income child-free household up to $100 a fortnight better off.

It also provides up to $20 more per fortnight for a full-time minimum-wage earner, and up to $26 more per fortnight for a superannuitant couple.

Our plan is carefully targeted to ensure that those who will benefit the most are working New Zealanders. We will fund our tax plan through reprioritisation and new targeted revenue measures including a foreign buyer’s tax, closing a tax loop on offshore gambling operators, and moving to user pays immigration levies.

National thinks it is about time

hard workers got some relief from Labour’s cost-of-living crisis. National will deliver that to them.

Infrastructure is also a key part of our plan to grow the economy as it creates jobs and help lift incomes. That’s why this week we announced we will supercharge the electric vehicle charging network so there are 10,000 chargers nationwide.

Under the Labour Government, investment in public EV infrastructure has not kept pace with the rising number of EVs and New Zealand now has the fewest public chargers per electric vehicle in the OECD.

There are just 1200 public EV chargers across the whole country. “Range anxiety” – the fear of running out of power – is a real

MP for Botany

Christopher Luxon

consideration for people who are thinking about EVs so our policy will provide not just helpful infrastructure, but reassurance. National is the party that gets things done and this EV network is the infrastructure that we need both to rebuild the economy, and to help us meet New Zealand’s climate change goals.

For me, it’s back on the road, working for every party vote for National to get our country back on track.

Christopher Luxon is National Party Leader and MP for Botany

SPILLER PICKS UP A SENIORS TITLE AT CHESS CHAMPS IN KL

Local chess organiser Paul Spiller has won a title at the 2023 Malaysian Chess Festival in Kuala Lumpur.

Spiller, who is the vice-president of the NZ Chess Federation and ranked a Candidate Master, won the Best Seniors (65 to 75 years) category and picked up a purse of 1500 Malaysian Ringgit [RM] ($544.33) for his efforts.

Runner up was Singaporean International Master Chan Peng Kong who won RM1000. Spiller is also a life member and secretary of the HowickPakuranga Chess Club.

Grandmaster Villamayor Buenaventura of Singapore was the champion for the seniors section of the 2023 Malaysian Chess Festival held from

Our doors are open

August 25 to September 3. The Grandmaster finished one full point ahead of his nearest rival with 7-and-a-half points out of 9. Buenaventura took home RM4000 and a challenger trophy for his efforts.

Indonesian International Master Gunawan Ronny finished clear second with 6-andhalf points winning RM3000 and

OpenDay 16Sept

International Master Lioe Dede of Indonesia took third place after a tie break netting RM2000.

Russian Grandmaster Fominyh Alexander was 4th place and Phillipino International Master Bancod Ronald took 5th place.

Forty players took part in the seniors event, one of the nine events at the festival.

Meanwhile, in the Merdeka

Teams competition – Spiller with three Malaysian team mates formed a team called “Hilton’s Friends” in honour of Spiller’s good friend Hilton Bennett who passed away last November. His team finished 18th out of 81 teams. Two younger Kiwi players joined with two Malaysian players and called themselves “Fusion Four” and finished 8th.

Billiards

Pakuranga College star signs with NRL



By BEN PLUMMER

APakuranga College year

Fox third equal at Irish Open

 By BEN PLUMMER

Professional golfer Ryan Fox, from Beachlands, has narrowly missed out on winning the Irish Open for a second year in a row, finishing in a tie for third.

Fox’s spectacular third round score of 66 (6-under) gave him a sniff of the win, lifting him from 36th place to a tie of fourth.

Heading into the final two holes of the fourth round, Fox was in a tie for second, just one shot off the lead.

But a bogey on the penultimate hole after Fox pulled his tee shot in the trees brought his chances of a fourth European

Tour victory to a close.

He finished in a four-way-tie for third place alongside Grant Forrest (Scotland), Shane Lowry (Ireland) and Thriston Lawrence (South Africa). Sweden’s Vincent Norrman won the Open with a score of 14-under after a round 4 score of 65 (7-under). He takes home US$1.02 million ($1.7m).

Fox earns US$315,000 ($535,000) for his third place finish.

Before the tournament, Fox was ranked 46th in the world golf ranking.

At last year’s Irish Open, Fox finished second, three shots behind Polish golfer Adrian Meronk.

11 has hit the big time, signing a two-year contract with one of the most prestigious National Rugby League (NRL) teams, the Sydney Roosters.

Christian Faafoi, 15, has been a part of the Sydney Roosters’ NZ Academy for over a year, training over that period under the tutelage of NZ Program Manager Brent Webb.

“As a strong running powerful player, we are looking forward to watching Christian progress over the next few years,” says Sydney Roosters general manager of football programs, Craig Walker.

The 15-year-old made his debut for the Tokelau U18 side at 2023 Pasifika Youth Cup in January, before the tournament was cancelled amid the Auckland floods. He was also part of the inaugural Pasifika Aotearoa Collective U18 team that played the U17 New Zealand Warriors in April. A standard week for the Roosters’ newest recruit consists

of daily strength and conditioning training as well as club league trainings, all on top of a busy Pakuranga College schedule.

‘Staying Stronger for Longer’

– a free seminar for seniors

Virtual Village East is a social and support network for seniors in the East Auckland area, offering free events and seminars to help seniors stay connected, live independently, and enjoy life. Looking after your physical wellbeing can help you age well and live fully, so join us for this informative, free seminar and hear from the following speakers:

• Diana Anderson from Diabetes Foundation Aotearoa will talk about healthy eating and how it relates to your physical wellbeing.

• Bethan Collins from Live Stronger, For Longer will provide practical tips to help prevent falls.

• Jennifer Lean from The Heart Foundation will speak on the importance of heart health to your physical wellbeing, and vice versa.

What: Free Virtual Village East seminar

When: 10.30am to 12.30pm, Wednesday 20th

September 2023

Where: Te Tuhi, 13 Reeves Road, Pakuranga

A network of friendship & support for seniors

Faafoi’s agent, Michael Redpath from Strive Player Agency says he is excited for Christian to go over to Australia and test himself against some of the best young prospects in the country.

“Christian should have no problem adapting in the elite junior representative academy of the Sydney Roosters and I believe that he has a bright future if he continues to work hard,” Redpath says.

Faafoi will move to Sydney at the beginning of 2024 to join the team in their pre-season training.

and test himself against some of the continues hard,” League other U-16 league players from

Affliated with the Ellerslie Eagles Rugby League Club, Faafoi will make trip with two other U-16 league players from New Zealand.

As for the big move, Faafoi says he is just grateful to be recognised and have the opportunity to expand his Rugby League career.

“It’s quite a process to move up the ranks and make my debut so I’m just hoping I play well enough to get myself another contract,” he says.

Cost: Free for seniors and their families

RSVP: Please register before 5pm, Tuesday 19th September by emailing: co-ordinator@virtual-village-east.org.nz

A member of HBH Group

facebook.com/virtualvillageeast

www.virtual-village-east.org.nz

Beachlands golfer Ryan Fox has had an outstanding nish at the Irish Open. Photo Facebook

Faafoi,

football programs, Craig Walker. debut

At

just 15-years-old, Christian Faafoi has signed a two-year contract with the NRL’s Sydney Roosters. Photo supplied

Longstaff puts feet up after 50 years

„ By NICK KRAUSE

There’s a joke about accountants that goes like this – how do you know when an accountant is on holiday?

“He doesn’t wear a jacket and comes into the office after 8.30am”.

It so accurately describes local businessman Ron Longstaff who, having notched up close to half a century in business as a chartered accountant, is supposed to have his feet up now in retirement.

Instead, having formally retired on July 31, he somehow is still at the Ridge Road offices of Ron Longstaff & Co some weeks later. Wrapping things up he explains… long-time clients continue to tap into his 50-odd years in business.

Ron is definitely winding things up and has a few holidays planned at Whangamata and is setting aside time for more reading and gardening.

From the outset he’s been keeping very busy indeed. He already had a bustling office in Cook Street, Howick, then scouted out Otara as additional place of business in the 1970s. The reasoning was to break into two different business communities. “Otara in those days was a very successful and thriving business community,” says Longstaff.

“After three years we amalgamated the two offices. To this day, I still have a few of the Otara clients.”

In those initial years, financial accounts were prepared on a typewriter. Ron eventually outgrew

Trouble she didn’t see coming

 Wait Until Dark

 Directed by Carlos Lehmann

 Howick Little Theatre, 1 Sir Lloyd Drive, Pakuranga

 Season: September 9-30, with shows at 8pm, and a 2pm matinee on September 17

 www.hlt.nz

By CHRIS HARROWELL

Susan Hendrix is the living embodiment of the refusal to let your limitations define your life.

She’s a character pushed to her limits in Howick Little Theatre’s production of English playwright Frederick Knott’s classic thriller Wait Until Dark

The edge-of-your-seat stage play is directed by Carlos Lehmann and adapted for the modern stage by Jeffrey Hatcher.

great example of a community-focused business which not only serves local enterprises, but is active in local organisations.”

Meanwhile, local firm Drumm Nevatt & Associates Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors (DNA) has acquired the business.

It centres on Susan, a blind woman living with her husband Sam in their humble basement apartment in the 1940s New York City suburb of Greenwich Village.

Actor Julia Kellett delivers a compelling performance as Susan, alongside Grae Minors as her devoted spouse.

Despite having lost her sight, she’s determined to live as independently as possible.

Her and her husband’s lives are thrown into turmoil when a seemingly innocuous doll is covertly placed in his bag during a train ride home. This simple act brings them into conflict with a group of conmen more than happy to resort to violence to retrieve their property.

the Cook Street premises and moved to an office upstairs in Rices Mall and become computerised in the process.

In 2000, Ron Longstaff & Co relocated to 63 Ridge Road, repurposing a house to serve as the new office with plenty of parking space. It’s clearly a good place to work as some staff have been there for several decades.

In 2016, he was presented by the Institute of Chartered Accountants with a milestone award for 40 years of service at a ceremony at the Heritage Hotel in Auckland CBD. The organisation’s Auckland regional manager Mandy Brooker said at the time, “Ron and his team are a

“After an illustrious career spanning four decades, esteemed chartered accountant Ron Longstaff has officially announced his retirement, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional service to his clients,” DNA says.

“He has tirelessly served local Howick businesses and grown the Ron Longstaff & Co Chartered Accountants business from the ground up. Ron, being a local Howick resident, has meant he has become a well-known businessman through the years, impacting many businesses and families.

“Drumm Nevatt and Associates wishes Mr Longstaff a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement, while also expressing our gratitude for his trust in passing on his valued clientele to our care.”

BROWN AND SEYMOUR TO SPEAK AT GREY POWER PUBLIC MEETING

Two senior centre-right politicians are set to stump for votes at a public meeting in east Auckland.

Grey Power Howick Pakuranga and Districts Association president Peter Bankers says the organisation’s next AGM and public meeting will be “a little different”.

It will see Pakuranga MP and National Party transport spokesperson Simeon Brown and ACT Party leader David Seymour speak to voters at the Pakuranga Bowling Pavilion in Lloyd Elsmore Park on September 22.

Bankers says Brown will speak just after 1pm.

“A refreshment break at 1.55pm-2.10pm will be followed by ACT leader David Seymour telling us why to vote for his party.

“There’ll be a Q&A session after each speaker. We finish at 3pm. All are welcome.”

This year’s general election is scheduled to be held on Saturday, October 14.

The crooks are led by the scheming Harry Roat, played with menace by Cameron Smith.

He’s joined by Sergeant Carlino, an ex-cop turned grifter in search of a major payday, played by Karl Fleet. There’s also Mike Talman, a mysterious old family friend with an apparent connection to Sam, played by Bruno Batistela. Completing the small but talented cast is Gloria, a feisty young girl living upstairs,

played with poise by Nicole Johnson.

As the play’s story develops, Susan becomes more determined.

In the opening scene, she needs Sam to help her navigate her way across their apartment.

But by the end, she’s found the ability and strength to fight for her life, and has created a way to use her blindness to her advantage in the struggle against those determined to cause her harm.

She’s ably assisted by Gloria, who evolves from a troublemaker and nuisance to a reliable ally.

This is a play featuring themes of courage, loyalty, betrayal, deceit, and overcoming adversity.

It has sporadic humour sprinkled throughout and the story will have the audience’s empathy for Susan increasing due to the terrifying situation she’s in.

All the action takes place in Susan and Sam’s apartment, so there’s a focus on the dynamics between characters and the storyline rather than using any exotic locations.

Audiences should pay close attention.

As the elaborate deception evolves in the first half, characters may not be who they claim, with tension building to a nail-biting second act and unexpected finale.

KITCHENS WITH DISTINCTION

Actors Julia Kellett, left, and Karl Fleet star among the cast of Howick Little Theatre’s Wait Until Dark. Photo supplied Howick Little Theatre

“

Drumm Nevatt and Associates wishes Mr Longstaff a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement.”

Ron Longstaff at the Ridge Road offices of Ron Longstaff & Co. Photo supplied

Your Local Experts In Your Local Paper

Auction (unless sold prior)

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Additional features of this property include a Kent style fire for heating, a garden shed for storage, and a double garage with studio attached.

Viewing

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Single Level Gem on Corner Site

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Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity! This lovely home offers a great lifestyle in the sought-after Addison Estate neighborhood — a true gem. Viewing

& Sunday

26 September - 6:00pm

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Election candidate strongly supports taxation bonfire “

One of the local candidates standing in this year’s general election wants to see all existing taxes scrapped in favour of a 0.1 per cent transaction tax.

John Alcock is representing the new Rock The Vote NZ party in the Pakuranga electorate.

It’s one of several component parties of Freedoms New Zealand, which is led by Brian Tamaki and lawyer Sue Grey.

Alcock is up against incumbent Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown, the Labour Party’s Nerissa Henry and Parmjeet Parmar of the ACT Party in the election scheduled to be held on October 14.

Alcock has degrees in science and law and is the business development manager for the Association of Certified AntiMoney Laundering Specialists to

We are taxed far too much.”

– JOHN ALCOCK

New Zealand.

The business owner is no stranger to elections and campaigning, finishing eighth in the race for Auckland’s mayoralty in the 2022 local-body elections, earning 5262 votes.

He says he wants to see politicians more frequently take a principled stand “rather than a specific policy stand”.

“You don’t know what’s going to happen in Parliament, but what you can trust with me standing in Pakuranga is I will tell people exactly what my principles are and those are the prin-

TRANSPOWER TO REPLACE JOINTS ON UNDERGROUND CABLE

Transpower has announced that it plans to replace 45 joints at 15 locations on an underground electricity cable between its Brownhill (Whitford) and Pakuranga substations in a two-tothree-year $40 million work programme starting in next year.

GM grid delivery Mark Ryall said Transpower is taking a prudent approach, following two faults in cable joints on this circuit in the past three years, by replacing all joints on the cable in a planned way.

“We are committed to continuing to deliver a secure and reliable power supply through the transmission network for Auckland and Northland,” Ryall said.

“Replacing these joints returns this important cable to its intended condition, so it can operate effectively for its expected remaining 30-40-year life. The issue is unforeseen and unexpected and we will work through the impacts with the industry and affected communities.”

The 10.5km underground cable is one of two supplying electricity into Auckland and Northland at times of peak demand as part of the high-capacity double circuit Pakuranga-Whakamaru transmission line.

Physical site is work expected to start in May or June 2024. There are 15 cable joint bays across around 10km of cable route, each with three joints that need

replacing. “This is a complex civil works project and there will be disruptions that we will need to manage by working closely with local communities and other stakeholders,” he said.

“We will need to excavate an area about the size of a city bus for each cable joint bay and we anticipate it will take around four months to complete the work for each joint bay. It may take longer for some more complex sites.”

At this stage it is estimated to be more than $40m which will be absorbed into Transpower’s regulated transmission allowances and allocated to Transpower customers through transmission charges over the life of the asset. Ryall said Transpower assessed a range of other remediation options for the cable, including continuing to repair faults as they arise or bringing forward significant new investment to ensure electricity supply remains stable and reliable.

“We concluded that replacing the joints over a two-year programme will give the best overall outcome for electricity users in the region,” he said.

Ten of the cable joint bays are located within roads or on roadsides, two are in council reserves, two are on private property and one is on Transpower property.

Updates will be posted to the Brownhill-Pakuranga Cable Project web page.

thing you like with your property as long as it does not damage the property of another; if you damage the property of another you must compensate them to the full value of that damage, and; act honourably and in good faith.”

Alcock describes his political beliefs as libertarian, which is a philosophy in favour of removing government from people’s lives and increasing human freedom.

healthcare they want to receive from the medical professional they want to receive it from.

“That should be the focus.”

He says cutting taxes would give people freedom and control over their lives.

Alcock supports eliminating “excess taxation” in favour of a 0.1 per cent transaction tax, which he calculates would generate $10 billion a month in income to the Government.

ciples I’ll be going into any policy discussion with.”

His five “personal rules” are: “Everybody is their own property; the fruits of your labour are your property; you may do any-

An example is in healthcare, where he wants to see “as much decentralisation as possible”, “Down to the localist level you get, and giving the most freedom of choice to the most number of people with respect to their healthcare. That is incredibly important.

“Nobody should be forced to receive any kind of healthcare they don’t want, and they should be able to choose the kind of

“We are taxed far too much. On average I pay 66 per cent of my income every year to the Government in tax. Income tax, GST, fuel tax, alcohol tax, cigarette tax. All the little taxes built into our everyday lives.

“That is a crazy amount of tax to be paying and it’s no wonder people don’t have control and choice over their own lives.

“We need to eliminate as much taxation as we possibly can.”

Experts gather for grief support and healing

A group of people dedicated to helping members of the community heal from grief recently gathered for an information session hosted by an east Auckland charity.

Seasons for Growth Howick area co-ordinator Candice Thum says the organisation provides a small group education programme that supports children and young people to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to understand and respond well to change, loss, and grief.

She says change and loss are part of life and grief is a normal response to these losses.

“Seasons for Growth is an eightweek education program where participants complete the program in small peer groups.

“It’s an evidence-based and highly-regarded programme internationally.

“Locally, Seasons for Growth has a unique and important role to play in promoting mental health and healing within your school and wider community.”

Its goal is to strengthen the social and emotional well-being of children and young people who have experienced major changes in their lives such as a loved one’s death, separation of caregivers, moving schools and moving overseas, she says.

Attendees learned how the charity helps people through grief and loss and the important role the programme plays in local schools and the wider community.

Howick Local Board deputy

chairperson Bo Burns, a “vocal champion” for Seasons for Growth, served as the event’s master of ceremonies, while Baverstock Oaks School principal Genée Crowley was guest speaker.

Burns shared her personal story about grief and how participating in the charity’s peer support group helped herself, her mother and daughters through a difficult time.

Crowley provided insights into the grief and loss many children face, and how attending such programs gives children space to make sense of their grief, understand they’re not alone, and begin to regulate their emotional responses in positive ways.

Thum says trained and police-vetted volunteers, called ‘Companions’, facilitate the groups.

The structure creates a safe space for children and young people to practise new ways of thinking and responding to the change and loss that’s occurred in their lives.

The service is offered free to the community and Seasons for Growth Howick relies on donations and local grants to survive.

People who want to know more about the organisation or are interested in becoming a volunteer, or would like to donate, can phone Thum on 022 423 8904 or email e.griefandloss@allsaintshowick.org.nz.

John Alcock is standing in the Pakuranga electorate as a candidate for Rock The Vote NZ at this year’s general election. Photo supplied

From left, Howick Local Board deputy chairperson Bo Burns, Seasons for Growth Howick committee chair Ken Stevenson, Baverstock Oaks School principal Genée Crowley, and Seasons for Growth Howick area co-ordinator Candice Thum.

Photo supplied

Basketball buddies big and small at the AIMS Games

„ By SCOTT YEOMAN

The ball hits the hoop and rebounds high into the air – so high it flies over the heads of every player on court, except for one.

Zahkiel Bennett-Vaimauga reaches up and snatches the ball with ease; sometimes he barely needs to jump.

The 6-foot-2 basketball player from Howick Intermediate turns and fires the ball to one of his teammates, who, a little shorter in stature, speeds down the court, dribbling the ball low to the ground, skilfully avoiding the lunging arms of the opposition.

Anyone who has played or been involved in basketball knows that, contrary to popular belief and pop culture, it is a game where talent comes in all shapes and sizes.

At Mercury Baypark Arena in Mount Maunganui, Tauranga, where 93 boys teams and 25 girls teams are playing fiveon-five basketball at the Zespri AIMS Games this week, one of the best examples of that truth can be found with the Howick

Intermediate team from East Auckland. You have 13-year-old Zahkiel shining on court alongside the likes of 12-year-old Leon Fisk and 11-year-old Zack Lorin.

“It’s good because they can steal the ball easily and they pass well,” Zahkiel says of his smaller

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teammates.

His strengths, meanwhile, are rebounding and driving – taking the ball to the basket, using his size to power forward towards the hoop and pick up two points.

Zahkiel has been playing basketball since he was 5 years old

and wants to go all the way to the NBA.

“He really helps out the team and I don’t know what we would do without him,” Leon said of his taller teammate. They work together to protect the hoop. “I’m really good at defence; at jumping, rebounding – I’m a main defender,” Leon said.

Zack said he likes “all parts” of basketball and is enjoying playing all the other teams at the Zespri AIMS Games, and in “a big stadium too”.

Howick Intermediate basketball coach and teacher Ryan Kwok said this is the first time in a few years that the school has sent a basketball team to

the AIMS Games, “so it’s actually really nerve-racking just because most of the boys have never played in competition like this before”.

“Everyone’s just giving it their all and there’s no regrets after the game, so that’s the whole purpose of it, I reckon, just good sportsmanship all the way around,” he said.

“This is such a nice environment, so we’re happy to be included in this competition. The boys are just over-hyped at night, you know, so there’s a lack of rest, but oh well, it is what it is,” he added with a laugh.

Howick Intermediate has almost 50 students taking part in basketball, BMX, football, hockey, netball, rock climbing, swimming, and tennis at the Zespri AIMS Games and some of them were courtside at the basketball cheering their schoolmates on.

Altogether, there are 25 codes at the week-long intermediate-age sports tournament, with 11,700 competitors from 373 schools around the country and overseas, including Fiji, Samoa and the Cook Islands.

Howick Intermediate basketballers (l-r) Leon Fisk, Zahkiel Bennett-Vaimauga, and Zack Lorin. Photo supplied

It’s good because they can steal the ball easily and they pass well”

– ZAHKIEL BENNETT-VAIMAUGA

Howick College triumph at 2023 UNISS Netball Competition

By BEN PLUMMER

The Howick College premier netball team has risen to new heights, winning the 2023 Upper North Island Secondary Schools (UNISS) competition after an unbeaten week of 10 games.

UNISS is known for its fierce competition, featuring up to 110 schools across four grades. The top six schools in A grade qualify for the prestigious NZ Secondary Schools Netball Nationals, a significant achievement in itself.

Last year, Howick College made it to the final, and this year they took it a step further, clinching the title in a thrilling extratime match against local rivals Saint Kentigern College, with a score of 42-41.

On the same court in 2015, Howick College won B grade and in 2017 qualified for nationals for the first time and won it.

“From then the school has had the goal to qualify for NZSS and this has been the case,” says Howick College director of sport Adelita Sotutu.

To reach this pinnacle, the side displayed incredible determi-

nation, playing two games each day over the five days (August 28-September 1).

In recognition of their play, Howick’s Lili Tokaduadua, Charlie Lindsay and Unuhia Crosby-Te Whare were named in the A grade tournament team.

Tokaduadua also played in the Netball NZ Opens competition last week in Dunedin.

The school also had teacher

Catherine Simpson and Year 13 student Kaitlyn Wade umpiring for the week. This season, both umpires have moved up the ranks with Wade being identified as an up-and-coming student umpire.

“We are super grateful for all the support from home and the people that travelled to Hamilton. We also want to thank Manukau Ford for providing us

with a van and our number one sponsor Lucca Trailers,” says Sotutu.

The team has now qualified for the NZSS Competition in October, where the top 16 netball schools in New Zealand will battle it out.

While celebrating the success, the team is faced with the challenge of funding its journey to the NZSS, where accommodation, petrol and food costs are

significant. The team is actively seeking sponsors to support the journey, offering sponsorship opportunities with a $250 contribution that includes having the sponsor’s name on the back of a warm-up/traveling tops.

The win capped off an outstanding month of sport for Howick College, with the school’s senior girl’s rugby team securing victory in the Auckland Rugby 10s competition after a resounding 82-10 win over James Cook High School.

Many of the girls involved were cross-code athletes, including the impressive netball star Tokaduadua.

This is the second year the girls have won the competition, with many of them now heading into the Auckland representative rugby season.

HOWICK COLLEGE

UNISS RESULTS:

VS Tuakau College (W 49-19)

VS McAuley High School (W 41-17)

VS Waikato Diocesan (W 38-13)

VS One Tree Hill College (W 38-31)

VS Rotorua Girls High School (W 39-26)

VS Mount Albert Grammar School (W 35-29)

VS Trident High School (W 32-21)

VS Saint Kentigern College (W 29-28)

VS Hamilton Girls High School (W 27-23)

Final VS St Kentigern’s College (W 42-21)

The Howick College premier netball team has won the 2023 UNISS competition and qualified for the NZSS Nationals.

Photo supplied

Artistic camellia chandelier honours heroic suffragists

Alarge-scale artistic installation that pays tribute to heroines who fought for the right of women in New Zealand to vote is to be publicly displayed at an east Auckland shopping complex.

Accomplished local contemporary artist Wendy Hannah is behind the creation, a camellia chandelier made from 31,872 recycled bottles.

It’s named Liberty –Herekoretanga and described as an awe-inspiring work that “celebrates the achievements of women and embraces the beauty of diversity and the importance of environmental awareness”.

The towering structure is set to go on public display at Botany Town Centre to signify and commemorate 130 years of women’s suffrage.

Hannah says the work serves

as a “poignant reminder of the accomplishments and ongoing struggles of women, while also advocating for sustainable practices and environmental consciousness”.

“It stands as a powerful symbol of empowerment, diversity, and unity, inspiring viewers to embrace the past, celebrate the present, and work towards a brighter and more inclusive future.”

Hannah started working on the Camellia Project NZ in 2018.

It’s supported by local schools and community organisations with funding support from Arts Out East, Te Tuhi, and Howick Local Board.

Over the last five years she’s visited schools and community groups to run workshops, make camellia flowers from recycled drink bottles, and talk about the

history of women’s rights in New Zealand and the importance of recycling and reducing waste.

In the 1890s white camellias became a symbol of New Zealand women’s suffrage movement.

Suffragists gave the flowers to supportive MPs to wear in Parliament while 31,872 people signed 13 petitions demanding women be given the right to vote.

On September 19, 1893, New Zealand became the world’s first self-governing country to give women the legal right to vote in parliamentary elections.

Hannah’s work features 31,872 illuminated camellia flowers that were made during workshops in communities throughout New Zealand.

Each flower represents one of the signatures on the petitions.

Hannah says the use of recycled bottles in Liberty-Herekoretanga

emphasises the significance of sustainability and the need for responsible consumption.

“By repurposing discarded materials, the installation draws attention to the importance of recycling and reducing waste, while also highlighting the potential for beauty and creativity in recycled objects.”

Te Tuhi director Hiraani Himona says the gallery is delighted to be working with Hannah and Botany Town Centre to make the “inspiring artwork” possible.

“It will be exciting to see it on view to the public in Botany Town Centre for the next twelve months.”

Kerrie Hughes, Botany Town Centre’s centre manager, says the shopping complex is a community hub for the diverse east Auckland population, “which

BOOKARAMA IS COMING

Howick Rotary has started the collection and sorting stage of this year’s Bookarama which will be held at Somerville Intermediate from October 4-8.

This year in addition to the generous support that the club gets by having the use of the cellar under Ray White’s Real Estate for sorting and storage Pakuranga Placemakers are also providing a second site for these operations.

Geoff Thompson, Bookarama convenor, said, “We are really appreciative of Placemakers assistance as with the volumes of books we are now collect-

IS THIS STILL OUR HOME?

Does our pleasant little homeland still bask in the blessing of unencumbered thought, speech and association, or has it become a social-media internment camp enforced by political and commercial usurpation?

Is this the quiet neighbourly realm of the living hope that each life peaceably fulfils the promise of its potential, or are the people the unwitting field of plunder for lifeless corporate entities harnessed through the operations of our parliament, judiciary, civil, commercial and cultural elite?

Is New Zealand a perpetual inheritance preserved for our forthcoming generations, or is it a straitjacketed satrapy, a tax-collectorate for the international private banking empires supplying the script of our political theatre?

Are these God’s skies, waters, coasts, landscapes and we his creatures, or is this all just stuff to be trafficked by the ‘co-governance’ engine set to strip the affection of common brotherhood that joins together all souls born on this His land?

Are we a nation whose destiny is being

Feedbackstunted by the environmental, political and cultural prejudices of a media that’s lost their way, or does God’s truth so richly dwell in us that media’s fear-filled pretensions are rendered transparent and powerless? Is this land still our home?

Rees Sutcliffe East Tamaki Heights

SPEEDING ON PAKURANGA ROAD

Beware, the police are out gathering money for Treasury [Friday, September 8].

I have just received a speeding fine for doing 58km/h on Pakuranga Road, where the speed limit has been lowered recently all the way from Panmure to Howick in the name of safety. This is a main arterial route which has had a 60 km/h limit for many years.

It would be interesting to know how many serious accidents have occurred in the last 50 years to justify the change.

Tony Turner

makes our support for this project by a locally-based artist with a global outlook a natural fit”.

The production and installation of Liberty – Herekoretanga has been generously supported by Botany Town Centre, Arts Out East, and Te Tuhi.

It’s being publicly unveiled at 10.30am on September 19 at The Pavilion at Botany Town Centre.

ing we run out of storage space very quickly.

We have had to resort to multiple storage locations including members garage’s which makes for a logistical nightmare”.

Placemakers branch manager Sue Kahukore said “we have been a collection depot since Bookarama began and we are only too happy to be able to help with the additional space to enable Howick Rotary to improve the efficiency of this wonderful community project”.

Committee achieves $5m savings target

Auckland Council’s Revenue, Expenditure and Value (REV) Committee has achieved its $5 million savings target for the 2023/2024 financial year.

The $5m formed part of the savings identified in the Annual Budget 2023/2024 and was achieved from a review of revenue, capital, and operating budgets.

Howick Ward Councillor Maurice Williamson, chair of the REV Committee, noted the achievement while acknowledging that this is the beginning of a substantial work programme designed to deliver value for money to Aucklanders.

“The achievement of the $5m operating budget savings means the committee has met the target that it was allocated to help reduce the overall $325 million operating budget gap,” says Williamson.

“However, given the one-off nature of the savings items outlined in this report and the ongoing need to respond to significant financial challenges, the work doesn’t end here.

“This is just the beginning – we will

continue to work with council staff to investigate further savings opportunities for the next financial year and beyond.”

How was this target reached?

Staff have been undertaking line-by-line reviews, mainly focussing on expenditure trends highlighted by the chair of the committee, as well as areas identified by questions from elected members about specific budget lines. Through line-by-line reviews, interest cost savings and insurance premiums, council staff were able to work with the committee to achieve this target.

Originally named the Expenditure Control and Procurement Committee, the committee was established to work with the council to make financial savings. This committee has now been superseded by the REV Committee which will continue to work with the council on cost effectiveness and financial savings and has an expanded scope which will be reflected in a revised forward work programme.

Accomplished local artist Wendy Hannah has created a new work to be installed at Botany Town Centre.

Photo supplied

Pakuranga Placemakers Branch Manager Sue Kahukore with Rotarians Glenice Yeoman and Colin Monk in the new sorting room. Photo supplied

HOWICK SPORTS AWARDS: SERVICE TO SPORT, OFFICIAL, ADMINISTRATOR, VOLUNTEER OF YEAR FINALISTS

„ By BEN PLUMMER

Without the efforts of officials, administrators, volunteers and those who dedicate their lives to the service of sport, the essence of competitive and community sports would be greatly diminished.

These individuals form the backbone of any sporting ecosystem, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the smooth operation of events, the growth of talent, and the preservation of the sport’s values

This week the Times looks at the individuals nominated for the following Howick Sports Awards categories; Official of the Year, Administator of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and Service to Sport recognitions.

OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR

Cameron Wilson (Howick Pakuranga Hockey Club)

Wilson, president of Auckland Hockey Umpires Association, is a driving force behind umpire development in 12 Auckland clubs.

He umpires in top competitions and contributed signif-

icantly to mentoring young umpires through the JUMP (Junior Umpires Mentoring Progamme) program.

Wilson won the award for 2022 Auckland Hockey Umpire of the Year and excelled as a player and coach for the Division 1 men’s senior club team, which clinched the championship.

Fiona Wansbone (Howick Pakuranga Baseball)

Wansbone has been Howick Pakuranga Baseball’s head scorer for the last three years and has been scoring games for the club for 10 years.

Every week, she enters multiple junior games from paper score sheets into baseball’s online scoring system as well as live scoring senior games.

On top of scoring for HP Baseball, Fiona has scored games at the Baseball New Zealand Club Nationals, World Baseball Confederation U18 qualifiers and Auckland Tuatara games.

Gabriel Hernandez (Sunnyhills Tennis Club)

Hernandez has been consistently selected to officiate at the ASB Classic for both the men’s ATP and women’s WTA events over the last four editions. He reached

the finals in the past two tournaments due to his outstanding performance.

He also officiated the Davis Cup match between New Zealand and Bulgaria in February. Additionally, Hernandez served as a Chair Umpire/Court Supervisor at various ITF Junior & Pro-events and the Junior Nationals in New Zealand, contributing to his significant presence in tennis officiating.

Steve Wilson (Special Olympics Howick Pakuranga)

Wilson played a crucial role in integrating Special Olympics into the 2022 Commonwealth Powerlifting Championships in Auckland, providing Special Olympics athletes from New Zealand, Australia, and England a chance to compete alongside mainstream lifters.

He also successfully organized the powerlifting component of the 2023 Special Olympics National Summer Games. Additionally, Wilson has been actively involved in promoting powerlifting within Special Olympics, managing training sessions and regional competitions, and fostering collaboration between NZ Powerlifting Federation mate and Special Olympics NZ.

ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR

Bridget McLaren (Howick Gymnastics Club)

From last year, McLaren took on the sole responsibility of customer service administrator of the Howick Gymnastics Club, looking after more than 800 members.

She handles enrolments of all new gymnasts and arranges the sale of all uniforms. She is also competition organiser, both planning events and entering members into other local clubs.

Janine Blackmore-Bedford (Revills Boxing Gym)

In 2022/2023 Blackmore-Beford worked tirelessly to organise sponsorship for the boxers at Revills Boxing Gym who had international competitions, with boxing very much being a selffunded sport.

She also arranges gym uniform and boxing squad equipment to ensure all athletes have the right gear and look sharp doing the sport they love.

Blackmore-Bedford is one of the unsung heroes of the gym and a true example of the gym motto: “creating champions inside and outside the ring”.

Louisa Smith (Pakuranga Athletic Club)

Smith joined the Pakuranga Athletic Club in 2008, and 10 years later took on the roles of both secretary and treasurer of the management committe.

Louisa also became a C grade official, officiating on behalf of the club at Athletics Auckland events and was the section’s chief official at Club Champs to sign off new records.

From ordering and collecting uniforms, arranging gifts and cards to running the tuck shop, Smith keeps the club running efficiently.

Melanie Nicol (Fencibles United AFC)

Nicol has dedicated over nine years to Fencibles, filling various roles from uniform manager to board member.

Her exceptional administrative skills, including reconciling payments, sending out invoices, applying for funding and paying bills have been instrumental in the club’s success.

Without her behind-thescenes work, Fencibles would not be able to have as many local children playing football as they do.

h Continued on page 14

HOWICK SPORTS AWARDS: SERVICE TO SPORT, OFFICIAL, ADMINISTRATOR, VOLUNTEER OF YEAR FINALISTS

h From page 13

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Ben Bongiovanni (Bucklands Beach AFC & Howick Pakuranga Baseball)

A dual nomination for his efforts with BBAFC and HP Baseball, Bongiovanni is a standout volunteer. He assists with field preparation, coaches junior teams and serves as a ball boy, as well as still finding time to play.

He’s won numerous awards, including BBAFC’s 2022 volunteer of the year and HP Baseball’s Dingwall trophy for six consecutive years, recognizing his contributions to the club beyond just playing.

The 14-year-old also juggles a demanding study schedule, multiple games, and representative team selection.

Jai Hira (Howick Pakuranga Hockey Club)

Hira, a dedicated board member for HPHC, plays a pivotal role in coordinating the club’s coaching program, supporting coaches across all age groups.

He’s also a successful coach and player in the Division 4B men’s team and assists the premier men’s team.

Jai’s contributions extend to fundraising, community-building, and providing physiotherapy support to players. His exceptional commitment earned him the Best All-Rounder Shield at the HPHC prizegiving in 2022.

Leonie Moore (Howick Netball Club)

Moore’s seven-year journey

with the Howick Netball Club began as a supportive mum but transformed her into a vital club member. She’s worn multiple hats, including coach and manager, always driven by her passion for players’ well-being.

Over the past year, Moore took on the role of club president while managing three teams and running fitness programs in the off season.

She recently joined the Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre (HPNC) committee to continue working on building the presence of Netball in the local area.

Venice Daniels (Pakuranga Jaguars Rugby League)

Venice Daniels, a dedicated member for over 20 years, has made an immense impact on the Pakuranga Jaguars Rugby League Club. Her tireless efforts in setting up fields with her five children, organising events, and managing senior games highlight her exceptional commitment.

SERVICE TO SPORT

Aaron Martin (East Skate Club)

The force behind the promotion of wheeled sports in east Auckland and founder of the East Skate Club Martin has driven multiple successful projects including the newly constructed halfpipe in Lloyd Elsmore Park last year.

Brian Long (Counties Manukau Orienteering)

Long’s orienteering journey began in 1978. He held key positions in orienteering clubs and passionately expanded the sport

in Auckland. Brian’s mentorship of young orienteers, especially through the Eastern Sprint Series, has been pivotal. He facilitated relationships, planned events, and boosted participation in CMOC’s school initiatives.

His retirement in 2022 has brought changes and challenges to orienteering’s future.

Colin Horgan (Howick Pakuranga Hockey Club)

Colin, a 20-year HPHC club and board member, introduced coaching clinics for returning women players, successfully integrating them into the division 3 team. In 2023, he continued this program and coached a successful youth girls’ team.

Colin’s involvement in the running of the HPHC club day and years of service earned him recognition at the Howick Volunteers awards earlier this year.

David Pasco (Bucklands Beach AFC)

Pasco’s journey with BBAFC began in 2004 as a parent, eventually managing and coaching teams, securing titles, and captaining the Thunderbirds to Division Titles. He served as Treasurer on the BBAFC Exec Committee for a decade and became Vice President in 2022.

Last year, Pasco earned the prestigious Yellow Jacket, the highest accolade award at BBAFC, for his dedication and positive influence on the club’s culture.

Desiree Jenkins-Allright (Howick Pakuranga Cricket Club)

Jenkins-Allright, aka “Mumma

$13m for sport, rec funding

Three east Auckland sporting organisations have been awarded funding totalling $620,000.

A range of grassroots sports organisations across Auckland have received a $13 million boost to help Aucklanders enjoy time on the field, on the court and on the water.

The allocation from the Sport and Recreation Facilities

Investment Fund was approved by Auckland Council’s Planning, Environment and Parks Committee on September 7.

The investment will help more Aucklanders participate in community sport and recreation activities. Highbrook Regional Watersports Centre Trust received funding of $350,000 for the Highbrook Watersports Centre, Howick Pakuranga

Netball Centre received $20,000 for an investigation for improved playing facilities and Pakuranga United Rugby Club Incorporated (Howick & Pakuranga Community Sports Centre) received $250,000 for Howick Pakuranga Community Sports Centre facility expansion.

Councillor Richard Hills, chair of the Planning, Environment and Parks Committee, says sport

Llama,” has dedicated 20+ years to the HPCC, significantly contributing to the premier women’s squad’s success. Her unwavering support, scoring prowess, and iconic presence at games have garnered immense respect.

Her life membership nomination this year was met with widespread support, recognising her invaluable role in women’s cricket.

Ian Davies (Fencibles United AFC)

Davies has spent 19 years at Fencibles, transitioning from a player to vice chairman.

His football expertise and role in coaching staff appointments have been pivotal.

He spearheads the new Busway project and invests extensive personal time.

Davies meticulously maintains fields, oversees BBQs, games, and club functions, all while balancing a full-time job.

Leigh McKenzie (East Skate Club)

Leigh ‘Squeak’ McKenzie, a professional vertical skater, actively teaches skateboarding to youth, serves as a role model, and supports the East Skate Community and Girlskate movement.

As the most experienced and knowledgeable in the East Skate Club, he’s a dedicated figure in the community, known for his mentorship, encouragement, and commitment to safety, making him a vital asset and respected authority.

Jono Frankle (Cockle Bay Tennis Club)

Jono’s remarkable journey at

and recreation is an integral part of the social and cultural fabric of Auckland and it’s vital local sports organisations get funding.

“A growing number of Aucklanders enjoy participating in sports and recreation, the activities and facilities connected to them help give people a sense of community belonging and have huge physical and mental health benefits.

“It’s vital that Auckland has a network of local sports clubs and organisations and this partnership funding will help them

Collect

Cockle Bay Tennis Club spans over two decades. He was a member of the club’s first men’s singles team to be promoted to promotion/relegation interclub.

As head coach and leader, he mentored emerging talents and managed the Caro Bowl team to a triumphant 2019 season.

Jono’s dedication culminated in his role on the management committee and he now envisions an even brighter future as a potential Trustee for the merged Cockle Bay Tennis Club and Howick Squash Club under the Meadowland Recreation Charitable Trust.

Lorena Ennor (Cockle Bay Tennis Club)

Ennor’s enduring commitment to the Cockle Bay Tennis Club has made her an integral part of its community.

Since joining in 2001, she has tirelessly served on the management committee, organised events, maintained the facility, and even took on the role of club captain this year. Lorena’s dedication truly makes her the backbone of the club.

Vinson Chao Yu (Multi Sports)

Vinson Chao Yu, a Howick 175 Ambassador doubles as a valuable asset in the community’s sport. Vinson engages with Sport Auckland to deliver multi-sport and recreation activities to the local community weekly.

He has organised countless events from skateboard give-ita-go days to NZ Asian Football tournaments which host around 350 players from more than 10 ethnic backgrounds.

prosper and thrive as places for residents to meet and participate in and enjoy their chosen sport.”

Councillor Angela Dalton, deputy chair of the Planning, Environment and Parks Committee says the funding is an opportunity to enhance Auckland’s sport and recreation network.

“These non-council owned facilities are crucial to Auckland’s sport and recreation network and meeting the evolving demand for sporting opportunities.”

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Our senior readers won’t miss out either with copies for residents available at the following retirement homes: Bruce McLaren, Pakuranga Park Village, Edgewater Retirement Village, Dannemora Gardens, Highlands Metlifecare, Summerset Flat Bush, Ambridge Rose Manor, Fairway Gardens, Howick Baptist, Golf Views Rest Home

Classic tale a real beauty

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Howick Children’s and Youth Theatre is set to deliver a fun and high-energy production of the classic children’s story Beauty and the Beast

It’s staged in Howick and directed by Michelle Field with a cast of 21 children aged 10 to 14 years old.

“This is a story everybody knows and it’s quite a traditional version of the story with aspects some audiences may not be as familiar with,” she says.

“We see a lot more of Beauty’s family on a farmyard, which people who read the story or see the movies are not familiar with.

“Those sorts of characters make the show more interesting for audiences.”

Field says the play features more than enough romance, action, and humour to keep audiences entertained.

“It’s very colourful and a lot of fun. I’m working really hard with the cast to make sure they bring those sorts of things out in their characters.

“There’s furniture and objects that walk and talk, sword fights, dancing and music.

“It’s suitable for young children from five years old and up as they’ll enjoy all that colourful magic that happens.

“As well as people who are familiar with the story and want to see the more classic things coming out in the tale.

“There’s never a dull moment on stage with all the different aspects whether the scene is sad or fun and energetic. There’s a lot of variety and people won’t get bored.”

The theatre says it’s grateful to the Howick Local Board for its ongoing support.

“We are hugely appreciative to have

a local board that is listening to its community and continuing to support arts and culture and the children and youth within our area.”

„ Beauty and the Beast is performed at 1.30pm and 3.30pm on September 23-24 at Harlequin Musical Theatre, 563 Pakuranga Road, Howick. Tickets cost $10. To book, email hcyt@xtra.co.nz.

There will be cash-only door sales unless previously sold out.

„ The theatre is also staging a staff fundraiser featuring Dr Seuss and other well-known stories with an opportunity for audience members to join in on stage. It’s performed at 11am on September 23-24 at Harlequin Theatre. Tickets cost $10. To book, email hcyt@ xtra.co.nz.

Big day of croquet for Howick teams

Howick Croquet Club [HCC] took out all the prizes at Manurewa Croquet Club’s recent spring tournament.

A total of 13 HCC members entered the tournament and eight members took out the prize pool on September 2.

In the green section, Vanessa Baddock and Raewyn Wolcke were the winners and Tessa Pim and Raewyn Furness were

runners-up.

In the yellow section Jim Dickson and Denise Gordon won and Veneta Hansen and Ed Lander were runners-up. “Vanessa, Jim and Tessa also won chocolates in the raffle,” an HCC member said.

“The weather was kind to us and a good day for all players. Thanks to Manurewa Croquet Club for a well-run tournament.”

Howick Croquet Club ‘s Veneta Hansen, Ed Lander, Denise Gordon and Jim Dickson with Manurewa Croquet Club’s Gay Pearse. Photo supplied

Starring in a production of Beauty and the Beast are, from left, Jack Gilbert, Fangle Peng, and Mila Cai. Times photo Wayne Martin

SITUATIONS VACANT

Terry’s

TERTIARY SCHOLARSHIPS

The

A1 CHINESE

CHURCH COMMUNITY

St

PAINTING & DECORATING

AVAILABLE

If you have any questions, please email or call 027 270 8642. Applications close on 1st November 2023.

END OF SEASON SALE

ST COLUMBA CHURCH OP SHOP

480 TI RAKAU DRIVE, BOTANY

WED 6TH – FRI 15TH SEPTEMBER 9.00AM – 12.30PM ALL CLOTHING $1.00 AN ITEM!!!!

Hurry to bag a bargain

SOLUTIONS

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8127 Across - 1, Aromatic. 6, Ball. 8, Even. 9, Chlorine. 10, Knock. 11, Sister. 13, Spleen. 15, Assent. 17, Baltic. 19, Snipe. 22, Strainer. 23, Oral. 24, Grin. 25, Aversion. Down - 2, Riven. 3, Monocle. 4, Tact. 5, Colossal. 6, Boris. 7, Lantern. 12, Anaconda. 14, Plaster. 16 Sinuous. 18, Train. 20, Piano. 21, Free.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8127

Across - 1,Rep-ris-al. 6, Sock. 8, Beam. 9, Tene-men-t. 10, StaI-r. 11, S-under. 13, Tes-si-E (rev.). 15, Master. 17, Stroke. 19, Hitch. 22, But-ted. 23, Know (no). 24, Peer. 25, Re-tiring. Down - 2, Erect (anag.). 3, ReMA-ins. 4, Si-t(I’m)e. 5, Lo-nesome. 6, Si-Mon. 7, Con-ceD-e. 12, Defender (anag.). 14, Enthus-E. 16, Sticker. 18, (sh)Ot-(bit)ter. 20, Crown. 21, U-nit.

CRISS-CROSS NO. 108

Across - 1, Mysteries; 9, Pencil; 10, Clepsydra; 11, Fedora; 12, Bookshelf; 14, Lavender; 19, Xmas Decorations; 20, Astragal; 25, Nile River; 26, Inuits; 27, Nameplate; 28, Ullage; 29, Adventure. Down - 2, Yellow; 3, Topeka; 4, Rhythm; 5, Enroll; 6, Referents; 7, Accordion; 8, Albatross; 13, Fairy; 15, Excalibur; 16, Tactfully; 17, Advantage; 18, Ocean; 21, Lizard; 22, Serene; 23, Violet; 24, Letter.

MISSION HEIGHTS SCHOOLS

LIBRARY ASSISTANT

Term Time Only

We seek an enthusiastic person to support our Library Manager for 20 hours per week, with general duties and the day to day running of our Library.

Start date: 9th October 2023 (negotiable). Position description available on request. Please send a covering letter with a current CV and names of two referees to: Carol Norton: cnorton@mhp.school.nz

Position closes: 24th September 2023

PROPERTY ASSISTANT

We are looking for a property assistant to join our Property Team. This is a permanent, full-time position of 40 hours per week, 52 weeks of the year.

For more details about the position and how to apply, please refer to our website: www.pakuranga.school.nz.

Applications close on 24 September 2023.

ADMINISTRATION/SALES

I write this advertisement with much sadness. I am in my thirteenth year with Fluid Fittings Limited, a small locally based office in Pakuranga specialising in the supply of hydraulic fittings, precision chrome steel bars and honed tubes to the hydraulic industry, and am soon to retire.

My position is Administration/Sales. The administration side consists of basic bookkeeping with the processing of a daily bank statement, receivables, and processing and paying the accounts, accounts payable.

There are general office duties, such as receipting in of goods, ordering of supplies for the office and lunchroom. As for the sales side of this position, I work with a small team of four people assisting with answering of the phone when busy and taking orders from our customers.

My role has variety. Attention to detail would be advantageous. This is a full time position, Monday to Friday. Hours 8.30am to 5pm.

For further information, please give Heather or our General Manager, Mark, a call on 09 576 8597. DE288425

INTERNATIONAL MANAGER

Howick College is seeking an experienced International Manager to join the Community Development & International Student Department. Reporting to the Director of International, you will oversee the day-to-day operation of the international student programme, work closely with the Dean of International students and the Homestay Coordinator to ensure students have a positive experience and contribute to the school’s recruitment strategy. You will need to have a positive attitude and good relationship management skills. This role is for 30 hours per week including school holidays. Start date to be negotiated.

Please email your CV, cover letter and application form which can be downloaded from our website: www.howickcollege.school.nz/career-opportunities to Nele Meers email: employment@howick.school.nz

at

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READY TO BE STUNNED AND WOWED?

t’s that special time of the year again when 120 designers from 23 countries will showcase their flair for art, creativity and fashion at the 33rd World of WearableArt™ (WOW) Show to be held from September 20- October 8.FASHIONISTA FACTS

The theatre of dreams that clearly looks at pushing the style envelope, transforms Wellington into the fashion capital of the world with some of the most bizarre and quirky creations that stun and impress.

Interestingly, the futuristic 2023 World of WearableArt Show: Beyond features the return of the WOW category, Bizarre Bra that will unleash a huge cast of spectacular performers. Watch the TSB Arena turn gold as the stageshow enchants with art, dance, aerial performance, music, stage design and effects.

“Once again we find ourselves in awe at the level of creative ingenuity, craftmanship and pure inventiveness that designers bring to the WOW Competition,” says WOW head of competition Sarah Nathan.

“In the 2023 WOW Show: Beyond, audiences will see a mind-bending array of materials ranging from potato bags, shoe rubber, bees wax, latex and bamboo, to drone waste, Barbie dolls, children’s sweets, keyboards and synthetic hair!

“This year’s finalists also provide moments of reflection and conversation as they present back to us some of the most pressing global issues of our time. Fast fashion waste, mental health, women’s empowerment, climate change and online bullying are all conveyed through the most extraordinary creations of wearable art,” Nathan says. The finalists will go through two further

The iconic GeoCUBE® collection from Coeur De Lion features unmatched styles and colours. Complete your spring outfits with this contemporary jewellery from David Fels Jeweller, handcrafted using cracked rock crystals.

More than $185,000 of awards and prizes are up for grabs, across three recurring sections, Aotearoa, Avant-garde and Open, and three additional sections, Mars and Beyond, Gold, and the iconic Bizarre Bra.

DESIGNER COUNTRIES

REPRESENTED:

Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, Canada, China, Croatia, France, Hong Kong, China, Hungary, India, Iran, Japan, Lithuania, The Netherlands, Philippines, Poland, Romania, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States and Vietnam.

KEY DATES:

PREVIEW PERFORMANCES: Wednesday, September 20 and Thursday, September 21 WORLD OF WEARABLE ART SHOW AWARDS NIGHT: Friday, September 22 FINAL SHOW: Sunday, October 8

stages of judging, in which they are assessed on stage, before the winners are announced at the 2023 WOW Show Awards Night on Friday, September 22 at TSB Arena.

david.fels.jeweller@gmail.com

Products featured available from Belle – 1 Picton Street, Howick www.belle.kiwi

THE ART OF THRIFTING

Thrift shopping is both rewarding and sustainable way to find hidden gems while saving on the cha-ching. Here’s our two cents’ worth on making the most your op shop experience.

SUPPORT A CAUSE: some thrift stores support charitable causes. Consider shopping at stores that align with your values.

QUALITY CHECK: be zealous when it comes to a quality check. Look for signs of wear and tear, stains, or damage. Some wear and tear are expected in secondhand items but a lot of times you could walk away with brand new items that make the fashion cut.

BRAND NAMES: keep an eye out for well-known brand names. If it’s your lucky day, you could find designer or high-quality items at a fraction of their original price.

UNIQUE ITEMS: thrift stores often have unique or vintage items that you won’t find in regular retail stores. Look for one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your personal style quotient.

FURNITURE AND HOME DECOR: check for furniture and home decor pieces that can be easily customised to fit your home. Solid wood furniture can be refurbished to make a designer statement. A lot of creatives have made a business out of it.

BOOKS AND MEDIA: thrift stores are excellent places to discover books, vinyl records, and other media at a pittance. You might stumble upon rare treasure or out-of-print item.

BARGAIN HUNTING: keep an eye out for discounts, sales, or special promotions at the thrift store. A lot of charity shops offer discounts on certain days.

UNSEASONAL ITEMS: The trick is to look for winter coats in the summer and swimwear in the winter to find the best deals.

PATIENCE: It may take time to find the perfect item, so be prepared to browse and visit thrift stores regularly. It’s a small price to pay for bargain hunters.

ECO-FRIENDLY: thrift shopping is not only for eco warriors but recommended for everyone who’d like to work towards sustainability, one item at a time. By buying second-hand, you contribute to reducing waste and the environmental impact of fast fashion.

GRATITUDE: make time to thank the volunteers who give up all their time and energy to work in op shops as they contribute their mite to local communities. The silver lining being, the money earned by charity shops goes towards a range of good causes to help humanity.

PURCHASE NZ MADE POSSUM MERINO KNITWEAR DIRECT FROM THE FACTORY

100% NZ owned and operated, our garments are created with the utmost care and attention. We draw inspiration from New Zealand’s astonishing natural beauty, and utilise the natural thermal properties of Possum and Merino. All of our garments are machine washable, pill resistant and long lasting. Being made of all natural fibres, they don’t need washing as often, as in nature, the fibres repel dirt and odours. Great for the environment, a sustainable choice that will stand the test of time.

BUY 100% NZ LOCALLY MADE KNITWEAR

FACTORY SHOP

1/113 Vincent Street, Howick

Open Monday-Friday 10am-4pm Phone 09 534 9904

DRESS UP IN APT COLLECTIONS

SPRING IS THE SEASON OF THE DRESS, AND THESE NEW ARRIVALS FROM FOIL AND SIREN ARE THE PERFECT INTRODUCTION TO THE WARM, SUNNY DAYS AHEAD.

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apt.collections

This season is about embracing bold prints, crisp linen, and easy-to-wear feminine silhouettes. Wear dressed up or down; these fresh new styles are perfect for any occasion.

HERE COMES THE SUN

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM THIS SEASON’S OFFERING?

Our new store is bursting with a beautiful selection of colours, prints and neutrals. Melon is a colour favourite, a spring/summer shade to brighten any outfit.

We have moved to bigger brighter premises a few doors down! Lots of refreshing new season fashions

KEY

Stay cool with natural fabrics or layer up with a Linen Blazer so light and versatile, this season’s must-have. And for those ultimate spring/summer vibes, vests and matching sets epitomise laid-back sophistication, perfect for every wardrobe.

WHAT’S ON OUT EAST

CELEBRATING THE MOON

Moon Festival celebration at Howick Library. Traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony, live music and dance. Thursday, September 28, starting at 2pm. Event is Free.

EASTERN DISTRICT COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

EVENTS

PREVENTING SCAMS

TRAP LIBRARY EAST AUCKLAND

PEACE & LOVE

Sunday, September 24, 2pm-4pm & Thursday, October 5, 10am-12pm or book your own time. Polish Museum, 125 Elliot St, Howick

Create Polish ‘wycinanki’ paper cut-outs from Poland in this fun workshop. These traditional cut-outs were created for decorating walls and ceiling beams in rural cottages for seasonal festivals. Designs are based on the Lowicz and Kurpie regions of Poland. Enjoy the displays of wycinanki at the museum, then take home your own unique wycinanki artworks. Part of Auckland Heritage Festival 2023. Cost: $10 per person includes materials. To book phone: 533 3530 / E: phtmuseum@outlook.com

Wednesday, September 20, 7pm. Everyone is welcome, bring a drink (no glass and no alcohol) and a plate of food for shared supper at our short prizegiving. We will still have our live music so come and listen or come and sing or play an instrument. Bucklands and Eastern Beaches War Memorial Hall, Wharf Road, Bucklands Beach. Non-members $5. For more info phone Bev, 021 11 56 866.

WORLD CLASS DINING

You expect nothing but the best when you’re invited to have a taste of the newly curated menu offered by Qatar Airways, the multiple award-winning airline, 10 years in a row. And they didn’t disappoint, says FARIDA MASTER.

On board Qatar Airways, Airbus A350-1000, the immaculately dressed flight attendants get busy preparing for service, as we are briefed on the relaunch of Gulf carrier’s direct flights from Auckland to Doha.

It’s not often that you board a flight mainly for a culinary experience. Or maybe you do, on a long-haul, flight after you’ve finished watching three movies in a row and try to get some shuteye.

An invitation to dine business class, gets off to a flying start with a choice of the finest wines, champagne and mocktails. A motley group of the media representatives and trade partners make themselves comfortable in the Qsuites.

Chris Paykel, country manager New Zealand, Qatar Airways shows the guests around the

spacious Qsuites—single, double, twin and quad—all at a push of a button. The movable panels in the Qsuite allows you to transform your personal space into a social area for two or four for you to work, dine or socialise with your family and friends at 40,000 feet. Dim lighting, with a seating area that glides into a bed is just what every traveller dreams of!

Richard Styles, regional sales director mentions that the awardwinning business class meal is available on-demand. Passengers can decide when they would like to dine.

The unveiling of the latest business class menu begins with the appetiser—perfectly done poached crayfish and prawns with a sprinkling of salmon roe, paired with basil pesto and avocado. The exquisite art on the plate tastes as good as it looks.

It is served with artisanal bread rolls, silverware cutlery and white

linen. None of that disposable plastic cutlery which tests your cutlery skills apart from the mountain of eco wastes!

Verdict: if the newly curated meal is anything to go by, it’s worth the extra dosh for business class tickets.

The flight attendant makes you feel like you are walking on air, literally, as she presents a plate of premium Yuzu beef, sitting pretty on a green bed of snow peas and edible flowers. The Gulf carrier’s latest business class menu shines a light on local produce.

For the mains, I opt for the pan fried hapuka fish with herb butter mashed potatoes, cabbage, baby carrots and parsnip, cooked to perfection. The smooth flavours have us savouring every morsel. There is a good reason it’s called fine dining.

Equally tempting is the other option of grilled beef tenderloin with thyme jus dauphinoise

Scam prevention and awareness session. Join us with Kevin and Callum, experienced professionals in the field of anti-fraud and scam prevention, boasting a collective experience of more than 40 years in risk assessment, fraud detection, analytics and scam prevention. Botany Library, Thursday, September 14, 5.30pm. To register, email botany.library@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

WOMEN’S DINNER CLUB

The Howick Women’s Dinner Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month for dinner and an interesting talk on a wide range of subjects. If you are keen to hear more, please email our committee on hwdc.committee@gmail.com.

Trap handout and return, third Saturday of every month.

Borrow or return a possum or stoat trap. Join our Mustelid Control Zone project. Register for a free rat trap with Pest Free Howick Ward. September 16, 10am to noon. Underground carpark, directly below Pakuranga Library, Reeves Road side. Look for our flags.

What’s On is a free community notice-board for non-profit groups. Send notices to whatson@times.co.nz or drop into our office at 10 Central Terrace, Howick. Notices must be received by the Wednesday before publication. While every effort is made to run the notices, space restrictions may mean notices may not run. Keep notices to less than 50 words. There is no guarantee your notice will run. Where publication of a notice is time-critical, groups should consider placing a classified advertisement to ensure placement.

potatoes, roasted radish, and sugar snap peas.

For dessert, the chef makes an impression with a rich and decadent chocolate fondant crème anglaise strawberry and chocolate swirl. A culinary masterpiece!

After a perfect menu tasting

experience, a pure seduction of the tastebuds, the only thing missing is that the flight of fancy doesn’t take off – to any of those 160 destinations worldwide. Instead, we are back to ground reality! It’s time to disembark, and head to the office, to write this piece.

PUZZLE TIME

Quick Puzzle NO. 8127

SUDOKU

Cryptic Puzzle NO. 8127

ACROSS

1. As revenge for the false pearl, turn the gentleman in (8).

6. A belt from the men’s-wear department (4).

8. The smile is a signal (4).

9. Opinion of the men in the building (8).

10. Step one: put a light outside (5).

11. A second further down does give way (6).

13. The key is put back by her (6).

15. The young gentleman is an expert (6).

17. Pat is the oarsman (6).

19. Catch and tie up (5).

22. Only I tend to go to pieces being interrupted (6,2).

23. “Realise I won’t” you say (4).

24. Look the equal of (4).

25. Flagging again and giving up the pursuit (8).

DOWN

2. Crete is outstanding! (5).

3. The master checks out but doesn’t go (7).

4. The position is different by the time I’m leaving (4).

5. See one’s out by oneself and needing company (8).

6. He is up the day after (5).

7. Mistaken once about a month back, you admit (7).

12. Need Fred to come round. He’d support one (8).

14. Say how wonderful the sun out East is (7).

CRISS-CROSS PUZZLE puzzle no.

DAILY GOOD SAMPLER PACKS

Who needs a spoonful of sugar to help the ‘medicine’ go down? While Daily Goods’ tonics are formulated to deliver a healthy dose of natural and organic ingredients to help boost our immunity, they’re designed to taste great (hot or cold) too. Available in three flavours, Daily Good can be purchased (RRP from $19 each) at select supermarkets, chemists and health food stores. We have TWO sampler packs to give away.