Times - 26 October 2023

H o w i c k & Pa k u r a n g a Profiles, travel, fashion, health and beauty, food, interiors and more

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VOL 52, NO 42 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023

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ALCOHOL AND CAR CRASH FACTORS IN COP’S DEATH A police officer crashed his car while drunk and then took his own life in 2018.

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www.times.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz Editor Farida Master 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz ADVERTISING 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 Published weekly on Wednesday Printed by Beacon Print Published by Times Media Ltd, PO Box 38232, Howick, Auckland 2145, New Zealand.

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We’ll deliver for all A

s New Zealand waits on the count of half a million special votes cast in the general election, there’s an opportunity to reflect on the result.

Although the special votes may mean the final numbers change a little, it’s clear that New Zealand has overwhelmingly voted for change and Kiwis have given National a mandate to take New Zealand forward. I am immensely grateful for the support and want to thank everyone who voted for change and put their trust in National.

I am proud of the positive campaign that National ran. National listened to the families that need interest rates to come down so that they can afford their mortgages. We listened to the people who desperately need tax relief so they can pay their grocery bills and all the other extras at the end of the week.

We listened to the patients who

From the Prime Minister

Christopher Luxon are waiting 11 hours in the emergency department and understand that the front line needs more support. And we listened to the retailers who want to know that the justice system is putting victims’ interests ahead of offenders’ interests. These are the things that Kiwis want right now, and the government I lead will help realise them.

For all these concerns, National put forward common-sense, practical policies and, just as National listened to New Zealanders, New

Zealanders listened to National.

As soon as the new government is in place, the real work will begin.

Turning the country around will be a big job, and it won’t happen overnight. But we must get it right because New Zealand has the potential to be so much better than it is right now.

National is going to tackle our challenges and focus on the priorities we talked about during the election campaign, because we know those are your priorities too.

I also talked on the campaign about New Zealand finding its mojo again and getting back its confidence to compete in the world. I was reminded on the campaign trail that our great country is full of talent and we can achieve so much more. I was also reminded that the things that unite us are greater than those that divide us.

Regardless of ethnicity and reli-

PM-to-be Christopher Luxon and a copy of the Times. Times photo Wayne Martin gion, and whether your family arrived in New Zealand generations ago or are new migrants, we all share an interest in living in a safe and stable country that celebrates fairness and wants the best for every Kiwi.

My pledge is that a National-led government will deliver for every New Zealander and I can’t wait to get started.

Christopher Luxon is Prime Minister-elect and MP for Botany

Waka Kotahi, AT to roll out new safety cameras The construction of new generation safety cameras on sections of six roads in Auckland – including Whitford Road in Shamrock Park – will begin in October, Waka Kotahi and Auckland Transport [AT] have confirmed.

These safety cameras can calculate the average speed that a vehicle travels across a length of road between two cameras.

Commonly used internationally, Waka Kotahi says research shows that average speed safety cameras are more effective than single location cameras, and can reduce the number of people who are killed or seriously injured on roads by more than 50

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The use of average speed cameras has been enabled by the recent passing of the Land Transport (Road Safety) Amendment Act into legislation. Waka Kotahi head of regulatory strategic programmes Tara Macmillan says in addition to being more effective at lowering speeds and reducing crashes, the new cameras also allow drivers to adjust their travel speeds to avoid being fined. “When operating in average speed mode, drivers are only ticketed if their average travel speed over the distance between the two cameras is over the limit – they can’t be ‘pinged’ by a single cam-

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era. All of the new safety cameras will be signposted – giving people a reminder to check their speed,” says Macmillan.

“No matter what causes a crash, speed is always factor. By encouraging people to drive at safe speeds, these new safety cameras will help to reduce the number of people being killed and seriously injured on our roads.”

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Thursday, October 26, 2023 | 3

ALCOHOL AND CAR CRASH FACTORS IN COP’S DEATH

By CHRIS HARROWELL

A

coroner has ruled a former local police officer who took his own life was facing multiple stressors at the time which culminated in him crashing his vehicle while intoxicated. The names of the people identified in the recent ruling from coroner Marcus Elliot are suppressed.

The officer died in 2018 with an inquest into the circumstances being held in April this year.

Coroner Elliot found the man had experienced difficulties in his relationship with his wife in the years prior to his death.

In late 2017 he talked to a senior officer in his district and was referred to the police’s wellness service. He also had a number of counselling sessions between late 2017 and early 2018. He and his partner separated in February 2018 and he moved out of the family home.

The officer saw a doctor and was prescribed medication to help him sleep. In April 2018 his ex-partner became concerned he would take his own life and informed police, who told the police’s wellness service. A senior police officer was also notified of the concerns.

In May 2018 the man’s ex-partner applied for a protection order against him, which was granted and served on him. He had sessions with a psychologist between May and June 2018.

In May 2018 his ex-partner again expressed concerns about his mental health to police and said she feared he would commit suicide and potentially kill their children also.

The police’s wellness service spoke to the officer again and carried out a risk assessment.

In June 2018 the psychologist the officer was seeing cleared

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him as fit to return to full duties.

The same month, his ex-partner made a criminal complaint to police alleging he’d been violent toward her and their children in 2016 and 2017.

Police opened criminal and disciplinary investigations into the allegations. The officer was contacted by a senior officer in his district and told he was being stood down from duty for a month.

That night he emailed his parents with “It’s time” in the subject line. He wrote he had “nothing left” and “I just can’t do it anymore. I am so sorry”.

His parents contacted police.

An officer who had a good working relationship with him located him at his home and spoke with him. That same month his ex-partner again contacted police to express concerns about him. The psychologist recommended not sending the officer back to work at that time.

In late July 2018 he went on sick leave. The coroner’s ruling states the officer declined to be interviewed in relation to the criminal complaint made against him by his ex-partner.

The outcome of the investigation into the complaint was a recommendation he be charged with assaulting his ex-partner, but he hadn’t been informed of that at the time of his death.

He had a final session with the psychologist in September 2018 in which he said he’d had contact with his children, which he was pleased about.

On the night of October 11, the officer crashed his vehicle after having consumed alcohol at a bar. He left the crash scene on foot and returned home and phoned his parents, leaving a voicemail message saying he had “done something stupid again”, crying, and asking them to phone

him back. A member of the public who had heard the car crash phoned police on 111.

Several police officers arrived about 30 minutes later and visited the home of the crashed vehicle’s owner, their colleague.

They searched the house with assistance from the police’s Eagle helicopter, eventually finding their colleague’s body at the property.

“An ambulance was called,” coroner Elliot’s ruling states. “A paramedic subsequently pronounced [the officer] dead.”

Following his death, a forensic pathologist found the man had a blood alcohol level more than four times the legal limit.

The coroner ruled the officer had died by suicide, but while there were “a number of stressors” in his life leading up to his death, there was no evidence he was at acute risk of taking his own life prior to the night he died.

The criminal and disciplinary matters the officer was facing were unresolved at the time of his death, “however, something happened that day which drastically changed his prospects: he crashed his car while driving with a blood alcohol level more than four times the legal limit”, the coroner’s ruling states.

“There was evidence at the inquest that, at that time, this would have led to the end of [the officer’s] career as a police officer. He would surely have assumed this to be the case.”

When coupled with the other stressors, his distress would have been “profound”.

The coroner found alcohol was also a factor in the tragic events of the night the officer died.

“At the time he was facing his most profound stressor, namely the certain end of his career and the consequences of this, [the

officer] would have been less equipped to deal with it due to the effects of alcohol. “[The officer] died because, after drinking an amount of alcohol which resulted in a blood alcohol level of 221mg/100mL, he crashed his car, thereby placing his career at risk.

“This transformed a difficult situation into what seemed, due to the effects of alcohol, to be an insurmountable one.”

WHERE TO GET HELP:

Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.

Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE).

Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline. co.nz or online chat.

Samaritans – 0800 726 666.

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

PAIR IMPRISONED

Two Flat Bush men have been sentenced to prison after being convicted of charges brought by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) related to an $8.7 million mortgage fraud scheme.

Bryan Martin was sentenced on Wednesday to four years’ imprisonment after being found guilty on charges of obtaining by deception and attempting to obtain by deception following a trial last year.

Joshua Grant was sentenced to 28 months’ imprisonment.

SFO director Karen Chang says the sentence is a reflection of the serious nature of the offending, which was a deliberate effort to circumvent lending restrictions.

“New Zealanders invest heavily in property and mortgages are a key part of the process. Lending restrictions protect both banks and those who are borrowing, as well as the wider economy.

“Offending of this nature breaches the trust between bankers, mortgage brokers and customers, which can impact the ability of future borrowers to secure loans.”

Grant’s wife, Sian Grant,

was sentenced to 12 months’ home detention in March after having pleaded guilty to four charges of obtaining by deception and one charge of attempting to obtain by deception.

Martin’s former partner, Viki Cotter who pleaded guilty in 2022, was sentenced to nine months’ home detention in January.

Both couples sought to invest in the Auckland property market, but resorted to fraud as they lacked the income needed to obtain finance.

Martin used a non-trading entity, Momentum Transition Developments, and created fake employment agreements for Cotter and Mrs Grant.

Fourteen loan applications were made between August 2015 and October 2016 which falsely stated the applicant was employed by Momentum.

By moving money between their own private bank accounts, the group gave the impression that they received regular salaries. Mortgage applications were initially submitted through a brokerage where Cotter was a licensed broker, and later directly.

4 | Thursday, October 26, 2023

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Thursday, October 26, 2023 | 5

Hero’s welcome for PM-elect

By CHRIS HARROWELL

“

P

rime Minister-elect Christopher Luxon received a rapturous welcome from excited pupils during his first visit to his old school since winning this year’s general election.

The MP for Botany called into Cockle Bay School on October 19 after returning from Wellington, where he’s taken part in negotiations to form a new Government and welcome the National Party’s large number of new representatives.

Luxon was entertained by a spirited performance from the school’s kapa haka team before being taken on a tour of the school by pupils and its leadership team including principal Dorothy Bigwood.

He was shown its impressive art exhibition and popped into numerous classrooms to speak to pupils.

In one classroom three young boys delivered a short pre-prepared speech wishing him luck in his new role as prime minister

It’s special to come back to your old school and I love this place.”

CHRISTOPHER LUXON

Incoming Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is mobbed by pupils during a visit to Cockle Bay School on October 19.

Times photo Chris Harrowell and his task of getting the country “back on track,” which was the National Party’s slogan during the election campaign.

While he was walking around the school Luxon was frequently approached by excited pupils who asked for his autograph on

pieces of paper or on their hands.

Following the tour he did a stand-up press conference and told reporters he had fond memories of attending Cockle Bay School during his childhood growing up in east Auckland and it was great to receive such a

warm reception.

“The kids are awesome. I’ve visited a lot of schools over the last year and a half and they’ve been really enthusiastic.

“It’s special to come back to your old school and I love this place. I learned so many things here and it set me up well.”

Luxon was asked who his favourite teacher was during his time at Cockle Bay School.

He said he had a number of them and his principal at the time was Kevin Peterson, who the pupils had to refer to as “Sir”.

“I belonged to ‘Sir’s maths club’ because he had an extension class on Friday at lunchtimes for us in the staffroom to do extra

maths, so he was great, but all the teachers were fantastic.”

Luxon said he was spending a day in Auckland because it was a chance to reconnect with his electorate.

“Being out here in Botany, it’s also a chance for me to go do some human hoardings to thank people, which is what I did after my last election as well.

“So it’s just a chance to catch up with what’s happening here in the electorate.

“It’s acknowledging I’ve been around the country a lot through the period of the campaign and I haven’t probably spent as much time here in Botany as I would like.”

Luxon declined to be drawn on the progress being made on negotiations to form a new coalition Government.

He said: “I know it’s different from how it’s been handled in the past but I want to make sure we have a very professional, constructive and positive negotiation and we are progressing relationships and arrangements with respect to parties.”

BUTCHERY WINS AWARDS FOR BEST BANGERS

By BEN PLUMMER Howick is among butchery royalty, with Marbled Delicatessen, Fine Meats & BBQ scooping up four awards at the Great New Zealand Sausage Competition.

Marbled entered six sausages into the competition and won awards for four – Beef, Truffle and Mushroom Medley (gold), Bandido (gold), Old English Pork (bronze) and Welsh Dragon (bronze).

The only Auckland entrant that won more awards was the infamous Westmere Butchery, which took home six golds and three silvers.

This year, the competition broke all previous records with 646 entries, representing the craftsmanship of 116 producers

across 14 sausage categories.

The Picton Street butchery is co-owned by five friends and colleagues – Darren Picton (known by many as Del Boy from Del Boy Sausages), Blair Welch, Darron White, Steve Lloyd and Garry Rees.

White says Marbled has really embraced the whole paddock to plate experience, making their sausages “pretty good”.

“We’ve really upped our imports from Waikato and Karaka, so it’s all very local and I think it shows in the flavour and the quality of our meats,” he says.

Marbled opened in May last year with the help of well-known local restaurateur Ted Waters.

“During lockdown, Ted had a freezer full of meat at the Apoth-

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Three of the five co-owners of Marbled, from left, Blair Welch, Darren Picton (Del Boy) and Darron White.

Times photo Wayne Martin ecary that was going to waste, so we set up a WhatsApp group and delivered meat to everyone in

the group,” says White.

From there, Westmere Butchery provided some of its finest

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award-winning sausages to Marbled. “That’s where it all started,” White says.

Behind the business is Ted Waters, co-owner of The Apothecary, Piggy Bar and Daisy Chang based at the northern end of Picton Street.

What’s more than their delicious sausies is their commitment to supporting the community by supplying meat and sponsorship to many local sports clubs.

“We’re very much a community-oriented shop,” Del Boy says.

Also notable among the award winners were Sam’s Butchery in Silverdale (Lamb Delight – gold elite category winner & supreme winner) and Salash in Huapai (Bachka Salami-Medium – Bronze) who are both regulars at the Howick Village markets.

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Kiwi kids champion conservation The team, from left, Pavneet Kaur, Anshika Kakria and Gurleen Grewal.

Conservation was a key theme among entries this year with an innovative humane trap for wallabies securing first place, and an energy saving solution, ‘Down the Drain’ as runner-up.

A Business team into regional finals Photos supplied

A business studies group from Ormiston Senior College in Flat Bush has made it to the east Auckland Lion Foundation Young Enterprise Scheme regional finals, a competition where students pitch their business ideas and compete for the national company of the year finals.

Ayuraaz is a group of three students - Anshika Kakria, Gurleen Grewal and Pavneet Kaur - has incorporated Ayurveda which they claim is a tried and tested method of natural medicine used for more than 5000 years.

“Ayuraaz have been successful in marketing and selling their product and are currently looking into launching their product in local retail stores,” says Ormiston Senior College leader of business studies Dorena Deo. Anshika Kakria, CEO of Ayuraaz, says in a world full of fast food and unhealthy beverages, it can be really hard to get a protein intake high.

“Most protein supplements available on the market are loaded with artificial and unhealthy ingredients.

“Research reveals that consuming artificial protein powders that are high in sugar and fat leads to negative health side effects such as bloating, gas and

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The group Ayuraaz from Ormiston Senior College have created Ayuraaz Protein Balls. stomach problems.

“We are a group of three students and we have a solution called Ayuraaz Protein Balls.

“Our protein balls don’t contain any artificial preservatives or flavouring and contain Ayurvedic and natural ingredients that have many health benefits.

“Ayurveda is a tried-and-tested method of natural medicine used for more than 5000 years.

Ayurveda originated in India and has been scientifically proven to provide many health benefits.

“Our product comes in two flavours, chocolate and coconut.

One pack contains three decentsized protein balls and is valued at $5.”

n outstanding year of Samsung Solve for Tomorrow entries has seen conservation high on the agenda for many Kiwi kids, with more than 50 per cent of entries dedicated to conservation and managing climate events.

Two east Auckland intermediate school students picked up awards too but the win went to year nine Rotorua student Cameron Moore who developed the most outstanding entry on this theme and for the competition; and has been crowned the 2023 winner of Samsung Solve for Tomorrow for his invention, ‘Humane Trap for Wallabies’.

Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is a nationwide competition delivered in partnership with Motat [Museum of Transport and Technology] and Tenz [Technology Education New Zealand], challenging the next generation of Kiwi innovators to harness the power of Steam (science, technology, English, the arts and maths) to create meaningful change within their communities.

However, it’s not just native forest conservation that Kiwi kids are tackling. Auckland year 8 student, Thomas Costar from Somerville Intermediate School was awarded second place, designing a revolutionary drainage system that could be built into homes across the country to prevent energy loss.

“What impressed me the most about Thomas’ project, was the scientific approach he took to development, and his demonstration of the design-thinking process. His experimentation and rigorous testing resulted in a much more applicable design

Thomas Costar, with his prototype, from Somerville Intermediate School was awarded second place, designing a revolutionary drainage system that could be built into homes across the country to prevent Photo supplied energy loss. than his first attempt,” says Dr Joel Rindelaub.

“This perseverance is a skill that will be critical throughout his career, whichever path he decides to pursue.”

The judges were so impressed with this year’s entries that they also awarded two students with highly commended prizes; year 7 Howick Intermediate School student Archie Gilchrist whose project aims to protect Kiwis from predators and year 10 student Sarah Perera who created a completely sustainable pen that biodegrades naturally.

Thomas Costar says he was “really surprised” with the second placing.

“When they told me I’d won second place I was speechless, ” he says.

“My science teacher Mr [Stuart] Read is great. At Somerville Intermediate there is a lot of

support for the science fair and a lot of students do well at the awards. My innovation was a part of the NIWA science fair.

“Water is a limited resource.

At the very beginning, the idea was just to make one appliance that uses water in a house carbon-neutral, or even better, generate a surplus of energy. It could be the toilet or the shower or a sink. I knew I wanted to make a turbine and I learned a lot about the different types of turbines in the process.”

Archie Gilchrist was also surprised. “It was exciting and a little bit nervous to go to Motat to receive my award and meet some of the judges,” he says.

“Howick Intermediate has lots of great opportunities that allows kids to try out lots of different things, things they have never done or thought about doing before, and this project was something totally new for me. My Innovative learning teacher Mrs [Karen] Woolridge was very enthusiastic and encouraged me in the planning and was supportive all the way through.”

“The idea started when I visited Scotland in April and I was annoyed every time I passed sonar pest deterrents in people’s front gardens, and the idea evolved back in New Zealand once I had done some research on how something similar could be used to help Kiwis against predators.”

The first and second place winners shared a prize pool of $20,000 in cash and Samsung tech for them and their schools, with the highly commended entries also winning Samsung tech.

www.times.co.nz

Thursday, October 26, 2023 | 7

Public demands new library “

By CHRIS HARROWELL

O

ne of the themes of the feedback about what people want to see happen in east Auckland in the coming years is the need for a new library and community centre.

The Howick Local Board’s draft Local Board Plan 2023 outlines its strategy and goals for the next three-year period.

It will be finalised and adopted this month before coming into effect in July next year.

Auckland Council has published online a 1019-page document that contains 269 pieces of anonymous written feedback residents provided to the board on its draft plan.

Many submitters raised the issue of the long-promised but undelivered Flat Bush Library and Community Centre.

One person who provided written feedback on the board’s draft plan says they feel like the board’s priorities are focused in Howick and Pakuranga.

“We don’t see you often out this way in Flat Bush, and I think partially this is because we don’t really have community facilities for this purpose.

“We need our library/community centre in Ormiston. It’s been

It’s been delayed too long and I think it hinders community connection and belonging.”

Previous Howick Local Board chairperson Adele White at the proposed location of the future Flat Bush Library and Community Centre at the Ormiston Town Centre in 2021.

Times photo Wayne Martin

delayed too long and I think it hinders community connection and belonging.”

Another person says they’re “still waiting for [the] Flat Bush/ Ormiston Library/Community Centre”, while a fourth person says “Ormiston needs the provision of [a] library and basic parks and [a] playground”.

Another piece of feedback states Flat Bush is becoming a “poor cousin” with no library or leisure centre and the absence of such facilities will cause social problems due to no “community connectedness”.

One person says they’d love to have a library in Flat Bush and Ormiston while another asks:

“When are you going to build Ormiston Library, indoor pools and other facilities like the one in Lloyd Elsmore?

“Ormiston has grown bigger and deserves to have its own facilities.”

As the Times has previously reported, Auckland Council and the local board have talked for years about delivering a library and community centre in Flat Bush with the intention the facilities would serve that suburb and Ormiston.

The work was put on hold as part of the council’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the financial restraints in its emergency budget 2020-2021.

Previous board chairperson Adele White told the Times in early 2021 the board “had cer-

tainly expected” to see the facilities in Flat Bush by then.

“A community centre is essential in providing residents with a space where they will share ideas, celebrate their cultures and truly connect as a community.

“There are far-reaching benefits too of having an accessible library which provides a wide range of activities for all ages encouraging communication and learning.”

During the local-body elections in October 2022, current board chairperson Damian Light spoke of the need to deliver the new library and community centre for Flat Bush and Ormiston.

“Residents are understandably upset at waiting so long for a facility that still has no firm timeline.

“They want to know when they will get the facility their growing community so desperately needs.”

He said the library and community centre were promised by the former Manukau City Council in 2005 and then by the current super-city council.

“Over nearly two decades, hundreds of locals have provided their feedback that they need this facility.”

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PICKUP LOCATIONS BEACHLANDS • Beachlands Countdown, 129 Beachlands Rd • Barfoots, 42 Wakelin Rd • Pepperjacks Bar & Cafe Pine Harbour, 190 Jack Lachlan Dr BOTANY • Ray White, 20 Crescent Lane, Botany Town Centre • New World, Botany Town Centre • Info Desk, Botany Town Centre • PO Box Lobby, Te Koha Rd, The Hub • The Vet Clinic, 739 Chapel Rd • Kings Garden Cafe, 280 Botany Rd BUCKLANDS BEACH • Books N Bricks Cafe, 83B Hattaway Ave • Bucklands Beach Superette, 224 Bucklands Beach Rd • Priestly Dr Superette, 56 Priestly Dr COCKLE BAY • Seaside Meats, 3 Litten Rd • Bellevue Bakehouse Café, 11 Litten Rd FARM COVE • Farm Cove Superette, 190 Fisher Pde • Whiteacres Superette, 31 Whiteacres Dr FLAT BUSH • Pizza Hut, 345 Chapel Rd • Texture Cafe, 1 Arranmore Dr • Xpress Mart, 3/123 Ormiston Rd • Ormiston Hospital, 125 Ormiston Rd • Ray White Ormiston, 240 Ormiston Rd • Ormiston Town Centre, 240 Ormiston Rd

• Physio Moves, 142 Stancombe Rd HALF MOON BAY • Fresh Choice, 1 Ara Tai Rd • Ray White, Compass Building, Ara Tai Rd • Sealink, 37 Ara Tai Rd HIGHBROOK • The Quest, Highbrook, Highbrook Dr HIGHLAND PARK • Palmers Pakuranga, 189 Pigeon Mountain Rd • Laundromat Pakuranga, 44 Fortunes Rd • Aviemore Dairy, 168 Aveimore Dr • Highland Park Library, 16 Highland Park Dr • Countdown Highland Park, 507 Pakuranga Rd • Paper Plus Highland Park, 491 Pakuranga Rd • Howick Historical Village, Bell Rd, Lloyd Elsmore Park HOWICK • Apothecary, 27 Picton St • Rices Mall, Picton St • Poppies Books, 83 Picton St • Lily Whyte/Marbled, 113 Picton St • Ray White Howick, 12 Uxbridge Rd • Howick Library, 25 Uxbridge Rd • Times Media, 10 Central Tce • Taste Explosion, Howick Village Mall, 21 Central Tce • Fig and Plum, 109 Vincent St • Bin Inn, 219 Moore St • Botany Road Superette, 6 Botany Rd • Juliet Dairy, 59 Juliet Rd

MEADOWLANDS • Countdown Meadowlands, cnr Meadowlands Dr & Whitford Rd NORTHPARK • Sunny Dairy, 3/128 Millhouse Dr PAKURANGA • Pakuranga Plaza, Countdown Foyer • Pakuranga Plaza, rear entrance by Steakhouse • Ray White, 102 Pakuranga Rd • Tiraumea Superette, 56 Tiraumea Dr • Ti Rakau Dr Superette, cnr Edgewater Dr and Ti Rakau Dr PAKURANGA HEIGHTS • Gossamer Dairy, cnr Ussher Pl and Gossamer Dr • Pakuranga Heights Four Square, cnr Reeves Rd and Gossamer Dr • Gossamer Mini Mart & Lotto, 147 Gossamer Dr • Cascade Superette, 123 Cascade Rd WHITFORD • Whitford Dental, Whitford Village 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

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8 | Thursday, October 26, 2023

www.times.co.nz

Woman injured after tripping

By CHRIS HARROWELL

A

senior citizen injured after tripping over a cracked footpath in east Auckland needs an x-ray to find out if the impact loosened her teeth when her face collided with the ground.

But after a query from the Times, the hazardous footpath is set to be repaired urgently.

Wendy Evans, 71, set out to walk from the Bucklands Beach Road home of her daughter, Times Newspapers advertising consultant Diana Honey, to look at a nearby property when the incident happened on October 2.

The roots of a large tree on the grass berm in front of a house adjacent to her daughter’s appear to have spread, causing about a two-metre stretch of the concrete footpath to rise and crack.

Evans isn’t sure exactly which part of it she tripped over but she fell face-first onto the ground, receiving injuries to her hands, left knee, and mouth.

“There was blood everywhere,” she says. “It’s still sore from where I bit my lip. A man stopped and then a lady pulled in too. He came over to me and helped me up. He told me, ‘it doesn’t look too bad’, but it felt bad because I was spitting out blood. It frightened me a lot.

“I kept feeling like my hair was in

Wendy Evans tripped and fell over a footpath that’s lifted and cracked due to the roots of a large nearby tree.

Times photo Wayne Martin

mouth but I think it was stuff coming out of my lip. The blood and like a plasma thing. He helped me clean up my hands and they walked me back down to the house.”

Despite suffering no broken bones in the fall, Evans was in considerable pain. The two people who stopped to help stayed with her for a few minutes to make sure she was comfortable.

“The lady rang my daughter,” she says. “She [Evans’ daughter] was

in a panic and couldn’t get home quick enough. I just had to rest for the day and get waited on.”

Evans had a friend take her to the doctor shortly afterward.

She says her GP told her she needed to get a dental appointment to check if her teeth were damaged in the fall.

“I’m too sore to go and have an x-ray [on her teeth] so I’m waiting a little while to get that cleared up.”

She didn’t report the incident to Auckland Council but says she hopes the footpath can be repaired so other people don’t fall over the same cracks.

“I would say it’s necessary to protect other people,” Evans says.

“I wouldn’t like anyone else to go through what I went through. It was really scary and painful.”

A query by the Times to the council about the cracked footpath Evans tripped over was forwarded to Auckland Transport (AT).

AT spokesperson Natalie Polley replied the same day and says: “We have not received any report on this before.

“We will make the footpath urgently safe as soon as we can by removing some of the damaged concrete and re-levelling the footpath with asphalt to remove the trip hazards. The team are onto it, so it should be completed within the next day or so.”

TONY BOOTH RECOGNISED FOR 50 YEARS IN CHESS A long-time champion of chess has been recognised for a half century dedicated to the Howick Pakuranga Chess Club.

Last week before a Howick versus Papatoetoe match, a lifetime service award was presented to Dr Tony Booth celebrating his 50 years of service to the Howick Pakuranga Chess Club and chess in the community.

Booth, who used to run a chess column in the Times, is a life member of the Howick-Pakuranga Chess Club and the NZ Chess Federation and a vice- patron of NZCF. “He has devoted countless hours in chess organisation, administration, coaching and chess reporting,” said Howick Pakuranga Chess Club organiser Paul Spiller.

Dr Tony Booth is a life member of the HowickPakuranga Chess Club and the New Zealand Chess Photo supplied Federation.

“We pay tribute to his devotion to the club and the game.”

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www.times.co.nz

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10 | Thursday, October 26, 2023

www.times.co.nz

Looking after our seniors

G

rey Power is a voluntary organisation that advocates for seniors’ needs and our major concerns are the level of superannuation, the health system and its effect on the elderly, the escalating cost of electricity, the lack of affordable housing and the welfare and care of those in rest homes.

After Grey Power’s lobbying over many years, we are pleased to see the recent appointment of an Aged Care Commissioner to ensure a better service for people who receive Home and Community Support Services (HCSS). We are also actively supporting E tu, the Nurses Organisation and PSA for an urgent

has always been a concern for the Federation that many capable and knowledgeable people have been excluded from the workforce, despite having a lifetime of experience in all aspects of work and a great deal to contribute to the nation’s economy.

Grey Power has successfully contributed to many causes that seniors are enjoying today. We will continue to actively advocate for seniors’ needs. To do this we need the support of all seniors to help us achieve them.

GREY POWER AIMS & OBJECTIVES

Peter Bankers (president), Sandy Feringa (secretary), Carol Grey and Graham Photo supplied Kearney (committee members) attending the Auckland Zone meeting.

Grey Power is a voluntary organisation that advocates for seniors’ needs

increase in funding for fair pay and work conditions for support workers in order to retain them in the industry which can only benefit older citizens.

With our seniors’ population expected to make up 25 per cent of the population by 2051, we need an effective voice across all. We continue to have discussions with banks and the Bankers Association on the5:23 PM ai164800940411_Howick and Pakuranga Times (Colour update)-v2.pdf 1 23/03/22

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• To advance, support and protect the welfare and wellbeing of older people • To affirm and protect that statutory right of every New Zealand resident to a sufficient New Zealand superannuation entitlement • To strive for the provision of quality health care to all New Zealand residents regardless of income and location To be non-aligned with any political party and to present a strong lobby to all Parliamentary and Statutory Bodies on matters affecting New Zealanders • To promote recognition of the widerange services provided by senior citizens of New Zealand • To gain recognition as an appropriate voice for all older New Zealanders

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Thursday, October 26, 2023 | 11

www.times.co.nz

Five crucial tips for a smooth transition into retirement

A

By Ben Plummer s the prospect of retirement looms on the horizon, many individuals find themselves grappling with a mix of excitement and apprehension.

The Times sat down with Fencible Law director Richard Galbraith and senior associate Alison Walmsley to hear their ideas about preparing for a comfortable and secure retirement.

GET YOUR LEGAL DUCKS IN A ROW

One of the most crucial steps in retirement planning is to ensure your legal affairs are in order. “Many people don’t do it because they think it’s going to be expensive to organise your will and enduring powers of attorney,” says Galbraith.

The lack of clarity in legal matters can lead to family discord and complications later down the track. ”By addressing these legal aspects, you can pave the way for a comfortable retirement,” he says.

KNOW YOUR FINANCES

Retirement requires a solid understanding of your financial situation. “It’s crucial to determine how much you’ve saved and what kind of lifestyle you aspire to have,” says Walmsley.

Websites like sorted.org.nz can be helpful resources to assist you in financial planning.

START PLANNING EARLY

“Don’t put your head in the sand and just think everything will be alright,” Galbraith says.

Galbraith says you should start planning out your retirement around

five years before you retire.

“Possibly the best and most usual time is when your kids have become financially independent themselves,” he says.

WEIGH UP WHERE YOU WANT TO LIVE

The decision of where to live during retirement is significant. While retirement villages offer security and companionship, they might not be an affordable choice for everyone.

“What we’ve seen is an explosion of prices going into retirement villages,” says Galbraith.

Walmsley adds that many retirement villages only accept people over the age of 70.

“It’s a very personal choice dependent on what facilities you would like when you retire,” she says.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL LAW FIRM

Involving a local family lawyer is highly recommended during the retirement planning process.

Lawyers can guide you through the complex legal aspects and provide crucial advice. They also ensure that you fully comprehend the contracts involved in retirement villages and other arrangements.

Galbraith emphasises the importance of seeking legal counsel, especially if you own property, as it will be needed sooner or later.

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12 | Thursday, October 26, 2023

www.times.co.nz

Mortgage debt and increasing living costs delay retirement NEW RESEARCH REVEALS THAT TWO IN FIVE SENIORS WILL HAVE TO KEEP WORKING TO FUND RETIREMENT, WHILE ONE IN FIVE FEEL THEY MAY NOT HAVE COMPLETE CONTROL OVER THE AGE THEY RETIRE.

A

ccording to research released in June from New Zealand Seniors, some Kiwis over 50 are seeking to work beyond age 65 due to financial need and the rising cost of living.

The study revealed over one in three (38 per cent) Kiwis over 50 currently working or looking for work (referred to as working seniors) are now delaying full retirement due to the implications of increased living costs, implications of the pandemic and fears of recession.

Furthermore, interest rate hikes have led to a collective rise in mortgage costs, and seniors are not spared. As a result, seniors with floating rate mortgages may experience higher costs to pay off their mortgages and maintain their standard of living.

And while homeowners have advantages over those who do not own a home, nearly three in four

working seniors (74 per cent) claim their mortgage status has significantly impacted their retirement decisions, and close to four in five (78 per cent) are concerned about fully retiring with mortgage debt.

The Working Seniors Report 2023 is the latest research commissioned by New Zealand Seniors in partnership with consumer research group CoreData. The study, which surveyed 500 New Zealanders over 50, explores their attitudes and experiences related to employment and ageing in the workforce.

The research was conducted against various developing factors, including seniors living longer and aspiring to live more purposeful and independent lives, as well as political changes arising from the General Election.

AGEISM IS PERCEIVED AS MORE PREVALENT

If living expenses, mortgage costs, and life expectancy continue to rise in

New Zealand, delayed retirement can be expected to be a continuing trend.

Although many over 50s want to work longer and contribute to the economy, most are conscious of the challenge of ageism in the workplace.

Seven in 10 (71 per cent) working seniors feel ageism in the workplace is prevalent today, with three in ten (30 per cent) believing that it is more common now than five years ago.

Over two in five (41 per cent) working seniors feel their current work conditions or income do not reflect what they deserve based on

their experience and capabilities.

Additionally, close to nine in 10 (85 per cent) believe that finding a job becomes harder with age, and 36 per cent feel they are undervalued in the workplace because of their age.

Moreover, 29 per cent have not applied for a job as they thought their age negatively affected their chances.

And 43 per cent feel certain or likely they have been turned down for a job past the age of 50 because of their age.

“Working seniors add much value to the workplace and tend to

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www.times.co.nz

Thursday, October 26, 2023 | 13

Working seniors add much value to the workplace and tend to outperform younger colleagues in several areas, typically relating to their experience, loyalty, reliability, and maturity. outperform younger colleagues in several areas, typically relating to their experience, loyalty, reliability, and maturity.

“Many also feel they are filling the gaps left by younger generations moving overseas and that workplaces with fewer older employees miss out on the value they can bring.” says Ian Fraser, CEO of Seniors at Work.

“The government should encourage employers to take on people in this age bracket.

“Just as employers get an accessibility tick if they successfully employ workers with disabilities and a rainbow tick when they accept diverse gender identities, it will be progress

if there’s a tick for employers that welcome those over 50 to work for them.

“A tax incentive can also be applied to companies that do not discriminate by age,” Fraser suggests.

SUPPORTING OUR WORKING SENIORS

Even though working seniors on average, expressed the ideal age to stop working was 69 years, they see benefits in continuing to work.

The top reported benefits include

financial benefits (81 per cent), maintaining a sense of purpose (59 per cent), staving off boredom (50 per cent), enjoyment (48 per cent), and keeping social (48 per cent). At the same time, economic considerations such as rising living costs (61 per cent) and meeting key financial needs (57 per cent) are among the top drivers for seniors working whose ideal age to stop working is past 65 years of age.

With over half (56 per cent) of working seniors saying that their ideal age to stop working was past 65 years of age,

many working seniors expressed the need for more tangible support from both employers and the government.

“As New Zealand’s population continues to age, we must work together – people, businesses and government – to find ways to support our seniors and ensure that they can retire with dignity. We must work together to address seniors’ challenges, including the rising cost of living and mortgage debt, and ensure they can enjoy their golden years without financial stress,” says Fraser.

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The primary purpose of earwax is to protect and clean the ears. Here are some of its functions: 1. Moisturising the ear canal: Earwax helps to keep the skin in the ear canal moisturised, preventing dryness and itching.

2. Trapping foreign particles: The sticky nature of earwax helps trap dust, dirt, and other foreign particles, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. This is a protective mechanism to keep the delicate structures of the ear safe.

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14 | Thursday, October 26, 2023

www.times.co.nz

Motorcycle deaths up 700 per cent

By LAURA KVIGSTAD,

Auckland Council reporter funded by NZ on Air

A

uckland Transport says there has been a 700 per cent increase in motorcycle deaths over the last year.

At the Transport and Infrastructure Committee on October 19, Auckland Transport (AT) presented the recent death and serious injuries numbers which showed there were 16 deaths for motorcycle riders over the last year, compared to two deaths in the previous year.

AT executive general manager Stacey van der Putten said the data was shocking. “In tougher economic times people do look for more efficient and cost effective means of travel and you can see that in terms of that new registration data. [There are] a lot of new motorcyclists potentially entering our network,” van der Putten said.

She said there were still a lot of questions around the issue but that it would require a targeted strategy. Cr Julie Fairey said there was a trend of older New Zealanders getting back on motorbikes.

“Boomers are now buying motorbikes – those bikes are

now bigger, faster, the road conditions are different, there are a lot more people on the roads and they are not always getting the updated training that they need to ride them,” Fairey said.

She asked if AT was helping to facilitate conversations around training for older motorcycle

riders. Van der Putten said there was collaborative work happening around ACC’s Ride Forever programme which provide training for motorcycle riders.

“It is not a trend that is going to go away. It is about how we can improve education and understanding,” van der Putten said.

Howick councillor Maurice Williamson was critical of the data and said more information would paint a clearer picture of the issue.

“Across New Zealand, is the motorcycle fatality rate going up or is there something unusual about Auckland? If we are doing something wrong that would show up,” Williamson said.

He said data for motorcycle deaths across the country and vehicle kilometres travelled for motorcycles could help to unpack the issue.

Chair John Watson said it was a complex issue that needed more information around who, where

and how the deaths occured.

“If we have got the information then I think it is going to be helpful to get it out there because the last thing we want is people buying motorcycles and going out into a dangerous environment,” Watson said.

Mayor Wayne Brown was formerly the Land Transport Safety Authority chair and said the age of motorcyclist fatalities peaked on both ends of the spectrum.

“Between 15 and 28 [years old] you get this peak and it runs down; it runs out really flat – then there are all the guys, 45 to 55; who thought they would get back into riding a motorbike – they fall off and die,” Brown said.

AT has regularly been reporting death and serious injuries data to the committee and several councillors suggested the issue of motorcyclist deaths needed more information at the next meeting.

Club cricket returns, Stackpole eyes up a double century

By BEN PLUMMER

C

lub cricket is back in action! And it was a very promising start for the Howick Pakuranga Cricket Club [HPCC] at the weekend.

PREMIER MEN

Under the guidance of new coach Matt Blandford, the club’s premier men made the trip to Huapai to face Kumeu in the first round of the Hedley Howarth Two-Day Competition.

Blandford, formally the club’s Academy Development Coach, took over the head role from last season’s coach Dickie Kruger, who left the club after being offered a position with Cricket Tasmania.

HPCC bowled first, making light work of the Kumeu batters and dismissing them for 139.

Azharudin Lambat took three wickets while Harmeet Singh and Bill Walsh contributed finely with two wickets each.

It was HPCC’s batting that was most impressive however, overtaking Kumeu’s total with ease to win the first innings of the match and setting themselves up for an outright victory.

Opener Bill Walsh (41 off 73) and first drop David Winn (65 off 63) got things off to a fine start before Andrew Morrison built on the lead, finishing the day on 69 not out.

It was Lachie Stackpole who was the pick of the batters though, scoring an unbeaten 167

3-37) after day one of two.

• North Shore 145 (R Langford 36; M Sclanders 4-22) lost first innings to Takapuna 216/3 (T Van Ingen-Kal 82*; R Bessell 2-58) after day one of two.

• Suburbs-New Lynn 175 (T Patel 53; K Kieser 5-43) lost first innings to East Coast Bays 272/5 (C Briggs 102; S Devereaux 2-41) after day one of two.

Premier Men Tom Hellaby Two-Day competition | Round 1 • Kumeu 139 (K Munro 30; A Lambat 3-19) lost first innings to Howick Pakuranga 346/3 (L Stackpole 167*; A Christian 1-37) after day one of two.

• Waitakere 303/9-d (N Lombard 81; A Jayampathi 4-70) against Birkenhead City 25/1 (J O’Brien 14; M Suri 1-5) after day one of two.

• Hibiscus Coast 165 (U Ranaraja 37; N Robinson 3-35) & 8/0 (J Grobler 5*) lost first innings to Ellerslie 167/6-d (A Alam 38; T Treadaway 2-29) after day one of two.

• Papatoetoe 99 (H Singh 46; N Bhana 5-25) lost first innings to Grafton 271/4 (J Houghton 93*; P Shally 2-19) after day one of two.

Premier Women Prichard Cup Limited Over Competition | Round 1 • Howick Pakuranga 128/7 (N Woollaston 50*; C Beck 2-14) lost to Parnell 129/3 (I Mills 43*; A Lambat 2-23) by seven wickets.

• Papatoetoe 112 (D Anderson 23; J Tully 3-9) defeated Kumueu-North Shore 51 (J Tully 19; D Anderson 7-7) by 61 runs.

• Cornwall against Takapuna 208/8 (T Hurley 58; I O’Connell 2-34) defeated Cornwall 91/8 (I O’Connell 18; E Watton 3-16) by 117 runs.

• Auckland University 202/5 (K Van Spall 81; Z Samadi 2-44) defeated Suburbs-New Lynn 129 (H Siegers 40; N Matthews 3-27) by 73 runs.

off only 92 balls. Stackpole hit 11 fours and 12 sixes.

The hard-hitting, talented lefthand batter will be eyeing up a double century and an outright HPCC win on the final day of the two-day match at the weekend.

The men finished day one at 346/3 and have a lead of 207 runs.

PREMIER WOMEN

Meanwhile, HPCC’s premier women (Llamas) kicked off their Prichard Cup Limited Over Competition, hosting Parnell at Lloyd Elsmore Park.

The side at the weekend had a development focus, with three players making their debuts, and five players who were aged 15 or younger.

This was due to the club’s Auckland Hearts and Northern Brave domestic players being away at a Quad tournament in Taupo.

The Llama’s White Ferns, Brooke Halliday and Molly Penfold, were also out of action having just returned from their tour of South Africa.

Nine senior premier women players were unavailable.

The Llamas notched up 128 runs off their 40 overs and started strong with the ball, but it was not enough, with Parnell chasing the total down with seven wickets to spare.

Despite the loss, last year’s promising youngsters were straight in the action with 17-year-old Neena Woollaston scoring a well-worked unbeaten

17-year-old Neena Woollaston was the light in the premier women’s loss, scoring an unbeaten 50.

Photo supplied

50 runs. Ayaan Lambat was the pick of the bowlers, taking two wickets in testing, windy conditions.

The women are back at Lloyd Elsmore Park this weekend as they play Cornwall in a rematch of last season’s final, where the Llamas prevailed.

PREMIER CRICKET RESULTS

Premier Men Hedley Howarth TwoDay competition | Round 1 • Eden Roskill 370/7-d (K Gambhir 127; J Hayes 2-51) against Cornwall 43/1 (J Cassidy 23; S Rawat 1-14) after day one of two.

• Parnell 160 (N Perera 40; N Stobart 4-50) against Auckland University 128/9 (A Olliver 24*; H Cullen-Hieatt

HOWICK PAKURANGA CRICKET CLUB UPCOMING FIXTURES

• Round 1, Day 2 Premier Men Tom Hellaby Two-Day Competition – HPCC VS Kumeu at Huapai Domain, Saturday October 28, 11am.

• Round 2, Premier Women Prichard Cup Limited Overs Competition – HPCC VS Cornwall CC at Lloyd Elsmore Park, Saturday October 28, 11am.

Thursday, Thursday, October October 26, 26, 2023 2023 || 15 15

DY267902-v2

HEATPUMP SERVICES

Be Cool this summer, install a heat pump Sales | Installation | Service Phone 09 534 1244 or 027 534 1244 E: celsius@outlook.co.nz www.celsiusheating.co.nz

ELECTRICIAN Registered Electrical, Alarms, Ventolation, Hot Water.

Ph Mark 027 495 4219

COMPUTERS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

 Home / Business  Fix all IT issues  Microsoft Certified  Cloud backup + data recovery, Networking, PC/Mac

BARRATT-BOYES

ELECTRICAL

James IT Solutions

0800 266 349 www.jamesit.co.nz

Registered Electrician ALL ELECTRICAL WORK No job too small All work guaranteed Pensioner discount

Close at 9am on Tuesday.

Phone 271-8052

• Durable & Stylish • Quality Build • Tiled Shower Specialists • Established Trade Team • Fully Guaranteed Phone Paul 021-251-4615 or 534-7427

BOBCATS & TRUCKS

CONTINUOUS SPOUTING

We do WINZ quotes

CD263641

MAINTENANCE & building repairs. Small jobs, showers etc. Qualified.

Ph 576 7841 or 021 1481076

CARPET CARE CARPET CLEANING, free quotes. Call Michelle on 09 537 4320

Free quote call or text Brian 021 285 1153

Replace your doors, drawer fronts & benchtops or have a completely new kitchen, all made to measure.

Servicing East & Central Auckland

aucklandce@dreamdoors.co.nz

Terry’s

LANDSCAPES

Ph: 535 9155 thebehersings@xtra.co.nz

Silver Medal DESIGN Winner CONSTRUCTION Ellerslie MAINTENANCE Flowershow

NOTICE OF THE DATE OF THE 56TH

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

PAVING ADL PAVING & LANDSCAPING. Phone Adrian 027 603 1919, ah 537 2345

PLASTERERS PLASTERBOARD stopping, old wallpaper walls to paint finish a speciality.

Phone/txt 021 660774

Spouting, Hot Water Cylinder Repairs/Replacements, Drainage/Unblocking  ALL WORK HAS A WATER TIGHT GUARANTEE  WE RESPOND TO ALL CALLS! 24/7. Ph 09 534 5286

www.allgoplumbing.co.nz

Hill Plumbing • Certifying plumbing, gas and drainage • Hot water cylinders • Bathrooms, kitchens • New and repairs

All work guaranteed Over 35 years in area

Brett 534 3562 027 493 0181

• Specialises in plumbing maintenance • Hot water cylinders • No job too small • Small roof jobs

John 027 492 0772 DE271314-v2

1ST FOR HOT WATER CYLINDER REPAIRS

LAWNCARE

To be held in the Howick RSA building on 25-29 Wellington Street, Howick

D E N TPO

ALL YOUR lawnmowing needs, pensioner disc.

Phone James 5342639, mob 0272372210

Saturday, 28th October 2023 at 1000hrs/10am

Kind regards, Ray Sangster, President

WALLPAPERING specialist. Strip, hang. Ph Andrew 027 4600048 or 5244 111

PLUMBER

LANDSCAPING

For any queries, please contact the RSA administrator: admin@howickrsa.co.nz

Phone Ross 021 977 542

PLUMBERS

Call: 09 533 6956

POS

All int/ext requirements, prompt service, 40 years experience, Registered Master Painter

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CARPENTERS

Reliable, affordable and efficient service

DE268840-V4

For a free quote contact Drewe Ph: 027 539 9851 or 0800 432 724 drewe@fasciaandspouting.co.nz www.fasciaandspouting.co.nz

DAVE OLD TAPPER SCHOOL BUILDERS BUILDER

devonportbuilders@xtra.co.nz

• Handyman services • Fence and deck repairs • Waterblasting – small to medium jobs • Painting – small to medium jobs

Amazing Kitchen Facelifts Is your kitchen looking tired?

Call Simon 021-0247-4706

M: 021 764 797

PAINTING & DECORATING

KITCHENS

• Decks • Bathrooms • Pergolas • Kitchens • Carports • On time Quality work Good price

• BATHROOMS • Interior Renovations • Doors • Small Jobs • Co-ordination of subbies

HANDYMEN

n Enhancing the look and value of your home n Made to measure on-site in Colorcote steel or Copper n All work guaranteed

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IN 41 COLOURS OR COPPER No joins - No leaks - guaranteed

PAINTER, experienced in int/ext, roof & plastering, free quotes. Phone Mark 022 666 6380

PAINTER Int/Ext painting, high qual workmanship, plastering. Howick based. Ph Kenny 021 897 445

ODD JOBS n REPAIRS

Interiors

PAINTER, Decorator, 32 yrs exp. qual work.

Free Quotes. Ph/txt 027 4990 973

TREES, hedges, garden work, w/blasting rubbish removal. Phone Peter 021 39 33 84

CD243734

SPOUTING AND ROOFING

BUILDERS

GARDEN CARE

Ph 0274 945 447 or 534 8404

Bathroom Renovations Kitchen & Laundry

Interior/Exterior painting, Wallpaper stripping, Plasterboard fixing/stopping, Residential/Commercial High quality workmanship Ph Vincent 5339658 021-135 3388

PAINTER/HANDYMAN, 40+yrs exp. Phone Muzza 027 6770294

Flat pack specialists

www.sos-appliance-repairs.co.nz

BOBCAT / Digger Excavations, driveways, landscaping, site clearing, rubbish removal, topsoil & metal supplies, truck hire. Ph Grant 0274 758 468

NEW decks, fences, timber/pool fencing, all repairs. Free quotes. Ph/txt John 021 023 69767

DE286283

Servicing all major brands of whiteware appliances

All fencing, decks, retaining walls, landscaping & more Competitive pricing Free Quotes

We will assemble for you!

DY271574

NZ Registered Electrical Service Technician

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An experienced gentleman with years of experience in additions, renovations, wallpapering & painting etc.

All other work considered also...

576 1515 BUILDERS

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535 6227 021 726697 Sam 027 4981810 Adrian

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Contact Steve 021 949 168 www.bbe.co.nz

CLASSIFIED BOOKINGS

PHONE 021 369 881

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Repairs- Installs- Rewires Phone Mark 021 959 439 Local and reliable service.

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• Simon Aukett – Auckland (Pitcher) • Ben Bongiovanni – Auckland (Pitcher/Utility) • Jake Charity – Wellington (Pitcher) • Ethan Cox – Hamilton (Pitcher) • Jacoby Golding – Christchurch (Pitcher) • Hugo Harvey (Pitcher) • Kiharoa Landon-Lane – Wellington (Infield/ Catcher) • Korban McKinlay – Auckland (Utility) • Adam Murphy – Wellington (Pitcher) • Renata Pereka-Pikari – Wellington (Pitcher/1st Base) • Tyrone Robinson – Wellington (Outfield/ Pitcher) • Cullen Scott – Dallas, USA (Pitcher/Infield) • Noah Sipeli – Wellington (1st Base/Outfield) • Jackson Tapiki – Auckland (Utility) • Messiah Tuhoro – Auckland (Pitcher/1st Base) • Fletcher Warren – Wellington (Catcher) • Nikau Waru – Auckland (Infield/Pitcher) • Ben Willocks – Wellington (Utility/Pitcher)

JENNY Cleaning. Home & office reg & one off.

Reliable & exp Ph 021 669908

COMPUTER REPAIRS

DE283234

NZ U15 NATIONAL BASEBALL TEAM

AIR CONDITIONING

130 7217 021 09 217 2217

CLEANING

FENCING & TRELLIS

A.J. & S.J CONTRACTOR

CD263192

F

ive youngsters of the Howick Pakuranga (HP) Hawks Baseball Club have been selected for the New Zealand side that will compete at the under 15 Oceania World Cup qualifying tournament.

Those selected from the east Auckland club are Simon Aukett, Ben Bongiovanni, Jackson Tapiki, Messiah Tuhoro and Nikau Waru.

The squad of 18 will travel to Guam next month to compete in the WBSC Oceania Qualifier series with the aim of qualifying for the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) U15 World Cup in 2024.

For Aukett (year 9) and Tuhoro (year 10), who both attend Pakuranga College, it will be the first time they have played in the same side, but not their first time representing New Zealand.

In June, both travelled to Korea for the Junior League Baseball Asia-Pacific Region Tournament, with Tuhoro representing the U14 New Zealand team and Aukett playing in the U13 side.

NZ’s U14 side beat Guam 4-1 in Korea, which the U15 team will be looking to emulate.

HP Baseball coach and member of the U15 coaching staff Paul Wansbone says no one works harder on their baseball skills and physical preparation than the five young men selected.

“While each of these players is athletically talented to varying degrees, the one thing they all have in common is a strong work ethic and application to their training,” he says.

HP Baseball’s Todd Harcher has also been involved with the side, taking on the role of pitching support coach.

HP Baseball president Mike Bongiovanni says it is truly an honour for the players and their families.

“We are proud of these players, wish them all the

best and want to thank the club coaches for developing them to get to this point and the parents who get them to and from practice/games,” he says.

Head coach of the side Brian Welts said selection of the squad was difficult, with such a great group of talented, hard-working players to choose from.

“We have selected a team that reflects the skill set, ability, positional play and coachability to compete in Guam.

We are excited to bring this team together and see what we can achieve come November,” says Welts.

The WBSC U15 Baseball World Cup will be held in Taiwan next year with dates yet to be confirmed.

• Outlets • Home Theatre • Security Cameras • Lighting Phone Jack 532 8723 021 661 469

Local NZ Registered Electrician No job too big or too small!

24 hour Emergency service No call out fee if you mention this advert.

MP268165

By BEN PLUMMER

& REPAIRS

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TV AERIALS APPROVED TECHNICIAN

Five to represent NZ at under 15 Baseball World Cup qualifiers

CARPET LAYING

Restretching No job too small We do it all!!

Phone Terry 021 927 921

AERIALS

Year 10 Pakuranga College student and Howick Pakuranga baseball youngster Messiah Tuhoro (standing) leads the haka for the NZ U14 side in Korea.

Photo supplied

ELECTRICAL

K58038

BOOKKEEPING Service simple solutions. Xero, MYOB, GST, PAYE. Sheryl 0212982786

CARPET LAYING

CD226123

ACCOUNTING SERVICES

HOWICK Lawncare, ex Greenkeeper, large or small lawns, friendly reliable affordable. Phone Paul 027 5676 900 DE284410

www.times.co.nz www.times.co.nz

LOGAN’S Mowing, friendly & professional.

Ph Logan 022 0144957 for free quote

ADAM OXLEY Certifying Plumber

 Hot Water Cylinders  Bathroom/Kitchen Renovations  Roof Leaks  General Maintenance  All Work Guaranteed

535 1111 027 235 2517

DE276820

16 | Thursday, October 26, 2023

SITUATIONS VACANT

BRADSHAW PLUMBING

DE264603

ROOFING

Boat Covers Outdoor Blinds Outdoor Furniture All Canvas Repairs 171 Moore St. Howick 0274 760 577 easterncovercentre.co.nz

K54154

 Specialise in general plumbing/maintenance  Bathroom and kitchen alterations  NO JOB TOO SMALL Phone 09 527 3053 or 09 268 1007 Terry 027 2922 708 or Alywn 0274 743 505

HOUSEKEEPER/ CARER WANTED

WATERBLASTING  Specialist waterblasting & housewashing, driveways, paths, decks & windows  Domestic & commercial  Low pressure bio-wash  Professional presentation

RUBBISH REMOVALS

Call Nick 5374602 or 029 7700581

GARDEN Household & General, also garden work & waterblasting.

Fast, friendly service. Ph Peter 021 393384

RUBBISH REMOVAL

CD140634

ROOFING repair service.

26 yrs exper. All work guaranteed. Ph 536-7173 or 0210-798-166

FOR SALE

We sell:

Furniture • Household Goods Antiques • Quality Used Clothing

We accept donations of:

Household, Garden Waste & General Rubbish

Good Used Furniture Household Goods • Clothing

CD48042

9 Ben Lomond Cres

Ph: 0800 789 248

CD227945

TILING

Open 6 Days

TILING

DE274460

CATKIN

0800 677 467 Pick Up Service Available

WANTED TO BUY

Quality guaranteed Free Quote Waterproofing Best Prices Wall and floor Underfloor Heating David Yang 273 6566 or 021 1867 361

We purchase good quality house/flat and estate lots.

Smaller lots also. Ask about our comprehensive clearout package. 25 years experience.

TREE SERVICES

Phone 09 532 9204 or 027 479 8942

l l

l

l

l

l

BUYING

For more information, please contact Wendy 022 5255 043

$215.90 + GST per insertion Just give us a call or email your form to classifieds@times.co.nz

Please include your phone number

Ph 09 271 8000 www.times.co.nz

SITUATIONS VACANT

LANDSCAPERS WANTED

Experience not required as we can train on the job.

Must have own transport. Based in East Tamaki, work is Auckland wide. Fantastic team environment. $25-$35 per hour depending on ability.

Immediate start, please apply to inksterlandscapes@xtra.co.nz DE288932

FITTER/ENGINEER Part-time

Due to increased demand for our products we require an enthusiastic person to assist with the assembly of our commercial and industrial duty waterblasting equipment in our East Tamaki factory.

The applicant should be fit and active, a nonsmoker, able to pay attention to detail and have experience with petrol and diesel engines.

Full training will be given.

This is a part-time position and may suit an active retired person.

Days and times to be discussed.

Please send your application to: alan@aesblasters.co.nz www.aesblasters.co.nz DE288965

CD262877

Transit Traders Ltd

Live in, Whitford. 5 days per week. Weekends off. Must be mature, reliable, kind and caring.

Good command of the English language is essential. References required.

SOLUTIONS We will place your public notice in the next available issue of the Times for only

TREES

The primary purpose of this role is to provide administrative support to the school’s varied and plentiful sports programme, which aims to create opportunities for students personal, social & physical development through sport.

534-7361, 292-8930 0274-767-746

BRANCH MANAGER K54146

Stump Grinding Fully Insured Free Mulch

Ph Brett 533-0473 or 021-279-9118

DE284798

Hedge Trimming Tree Trimming Property Clean Ups Property Maintenance Ryan 021413587 www.cutback.co.nz

DS Trees & Landscapes, all tree work & stumps, hedges, mulching, rubbish removal. Ph Doug 021 537 171 or 537 8595 GREENMAN Trees, Lawns, Garden. Free quotes. Friendly service Ph/txt 021 570 409 HARRIS Tree Services.

Trees, hedges, palms, garden, trim, removal.

Fast service. Ph Shane 021 876 541

DE279274

ALL TREE WORK

TO LET PAKURANGA self contained, 1 x bdrm, 1 x bathrm flat. Fully furn, wifi, osp, handy to Plaza.

No smking or pets + lg shed. $370pw all incl. Ph 021 583 652 SUNNY 2 bdr unit, near Eastern beach & park, great school zones, call 0220966383 to arrange viewing.

CHURCH SERVICES

480 Ti Rakau Drive, Botany

Ph: 09 274 4864

Sunday Services 8:30am & 10:30am

Thursday Service @ 10:30am Opshop Wed-Fri 9am-12:30pm Playgroup every weekday 9:30am-11:30am English Conversation Group every Tuesday @ 10am

MP288414-V3

Looking for a church home?

One Lord, One Faith, One People Sunday morning 9.30am (with children’s programme) Youth Group every Friday 7.00pm 17 Wellington St, Howick; Phone 534-5142 www.howickbaptist.org.nz

Find out more: phone 09 301 0101 or visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Our ideal candidate will have a relevant tertiary qualification and experience in Sports Management supported by knowledge of school sport operations. Digital skills are essential in Google Documents, Excel and Word and the ability to learn the school data programme Kamar.

Experience in risk management, an eye for detail and proactive problem-solving skills will be an advantage. The successful candidate requires strong relationship-building capacity, initiative and effective communication skills, with the ability to work both strategically and operationally.

DE289067

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

This is a full time, permanent position, starting mid January 2024.

Please send your CV and a covering letter, together with the staff application form which can be found on our website: www.howickcollege.school.nz to: Mark Thomas, Deputy Principal: email employment@howick.school.nz Applications close Friday 3 November at 3pm.

CLASSIFIED BOOKINGS

Close at 9am on Tuesday.

Book early to avoid missing out.

Phone 271-8052

MP286262

PUBLIC NOTICES

DE289019

KAK007

Ph Murray

Qualified Arborist

CODE CRACKER NO. 114 1=S; 2=R; 3=K; 4=E; 5=P; 6=T; 7=I; 8=C; 9=A; 10=L; 11=M; 12=J; 13=G; 14=N; 15=D; 16=O; 17=W; 18=H; 19=Y; 20=U; 21=F; 22=Z; 23=B; 24=V; 25=X; 26=Q

CHURCH COMMUNITY

Meeting will be held Thursday 16 November at 12pm, and Thursday 30 November at 2.30pm. The venue is the Howick Local Board meeting room, Pakuranga Library Complex, 7 Aylesbury St, Pakuranga.

SPORTS COORDINATOR

 Reducing  Thinning  Shaping  Full removal  Chipped onsite/removed  Good rates  Great refs  Free quotes

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8133 Across - 1,Should-er.

6, Rid-E. 8, View. 9, Rebelle-d. 10, Stout. 11, T-hr-ash. 13, S-addle.

15, Ex-pert. 17, C-O-asts.

19, Stamp. 22, Vine-Gary.

23, Ea(ch)-St. 24, Lean.

25, Star-ters.

Dow n - 2 , Ho - I - s t .

3, Unwound. 4, Darn.

5, Re-butted. 6, Ruler.

7, Dresser. 12, Pe-r-sians.

14, Acon-it-e. 16, Pat-Ient. 18, Stern. 20, Miser (anag.). 21, M-Y-ra (rev.).

1. In accepting an advertisement for publication and in publishing it we are doing so in consideration of and relying on the advertisers express warranty, the truth of which is essential. a. That the advertisement complies in all ways with the Advertising Codes of Practice issued by the Advertising Standards Authority inc (ASA) and with every other code or industry standard relating to advertising in New Zealand b. The published advertisement will not give rise to any liability on our part or in a claim being made against us. c. That the advertisement is misleading or deceptive or likely to mislead or deceive or breaches the Fair Trading Act 1986 that is defamatory or indecent or which otherwise offends against generally accepted community standards that infringes a copyright or trademark or otherwise infringes any intellectual or industrial property rights that breaches any provision of any statute, regulation, by law or other rule or law .

2. Where the advertiser utilises any aspect of our creative/design services in the production of an advertisement (including photographic work) the advertiser acknowledges that we own the copyright in such work and that such work is not work for which a commissioning payment has been made or agreed.

3. The advertiser agrees to indemnify us against all losses or costs arising directly or indirectly from any breach of those warranties by the advertiser and from any costs incurred in our making corrections or amendments in accordance with the terms that follow.

4. We may refuse to publish, or withdraw an advertisement from publications without having to give a reason.

5. We may publish the advertisement on the next available day if there is an error or delay in publication of the advertising as booked.

6. We may correct or amend advertising to conform to style or for other genuine reason as long as we do so using reasonable care.

7. The guarantees contained in the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 are excluded where the advertiser acquires, or holds himself out as acquiring, goods or services from us for the purpose of a business.

8. The advertiser must tell us as soon as possible if there is an error or omission in any advertisement the advertiser has placed. We will not be liable for any indirect or consequential loss from an error (which includes ommission, negligence, system or press failure, mistake, misclassification, early, late or non insertion of advertisement or loss or delay in the delivery of replies) and if we are found to have any direct liability for any circumstance that liability is limited to the cost of the space of the advertisement.

9. To cancel an advertisement a cancellation number must be obtained from us.

Times Newspaper Limited, 10 Central Terrace, Howick (behind Rice’s Mall) www.times.co.nz

Howick Local Board meeting

All about

& STUMP GRINDING

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8133 Across - 1, Sinister.

6, Mope. 8, Gulp. 9, Alderney. 10, Testy. 11, Clever.

13, Balsam. 15, Length.

17, Winter. 19, Asset.

22, Stripped. 23, Read.

24, Free. 25, Remember.

Down - 2, Inure. 3, Impetus. 4, Trap. 5, Ridicule. 6, Merge. 7, Prevent.

12, Improper. 14, Aviator.

16, Nostrum. 18, Tripe.

20, Evade. 21, Edam.

ADVERTISING TERMS AND CONDITIONS

MP288417

UPHOLSTERERS

DE289023

PLUMBERS

www.times.co.nz

Pax Tu Brownies are on the hunt for some more amazing Unit Leaders.

They meet Tuesday’s from 4:15-5:45 pm once per week during school term at Bucklands Beach Sea Scout Hall, Bucklands Beach.

If you would love to help our tamariki to build confidence whilst learning new skills, Please contact us today

Volunteer.enquiries@ggnz.org.nz GIRLGUIDINGNZ.ORG.NZ

MP289075

Thursday, October 26, 2023 | 17

www.eastlife.co.nz

Welcome to an outdoor-indoor flow as we explore sculpture creatives, home styling tips and kitchen tricks.

FARIDA MASTER, EDITOR

RAMON ROBERTSON’S: THE COURIER

SCULPTED STORIES Feast your eyes on more than 120 spectacular sculpted works of art from over 100 artists at the country’s largest outdoor sculpture exhibition.

The NZ Sculpture OnShore has returned after a hiatus of five years. Three of our local, gifted creatives will showcase their works of art at the Clifftop Park located at Operetu, Fort Takapuna in Devonport.

I

f NZ Sculpture OnShore sounds familiar it’s because it is in its 27th year—only it gets better, quirkier and more thought-provoking each year— with works of art that go way beyond the traditional white cube galleries.

It’s a rare opportunity to explore soaring, monumental sculptures, juxtaposed with innovative projects of sound and light art works and sitespecific installations as well as handmade domestic wares and smaller sculptural pieces at the NZ Sculpture OnShore.

Several works will be built onsite, including cornerstone piece And Then They Kissed Me by social practice artists Bernie Harfleet and Turtle Sarten.

Installed in the Fort’s engine room and connecting tunnels, the confronting and moving work is a metaphor for the experience of women

FOR TENDER

Ramon Robertson’s – The Courier

Ramon is known to explore themes linking to human nature, conditioning, and behaviour in the city.

His artwork engages with aspects of architecture and urbanisation.

Mass production and standardisation of objects is also a focus, as well as a closer look at our human existence in our living environments.

The sculptures he produces are often figurative.

What’s going on in the artist’s mind?

Robertson states: “I often talk to people around me who are in some way connected to what I do as a sculptor, for example, the postman, the courier and a workman. In my neighbourhood and street what I do is quite obscure to a lot of people but in conversations with, let’s say, the courier I sometimes find out that people have other obscure interests outside of their dayto-day work. This interests me about people and I like that everything is not what it initially seems.”

WENDY HANNAH’S: PIONEERING WOMEN, MARY Hannah explores light, colour, pigment, and materials to create an immersive environment, reflecting the different facets of her practice. Known to create, large scale installations using recycled materials, Hannah brings modern innovation to time honoured processes.

Fascinated by the fundamental elements of art making, she pushes boundaries with new materials, surfaces, pigments and paint.

fleeing domestic violence and finding refuge. Visitors can write messages of hope and encouragement to those who have escaped and are rebuilding their lives. The proceeds from the sale of each work will go to Women’s Refuge NZ. In the past NZ Sculpture OnShore has raised more than $2 million for the victims of domestic violence, helping women and children access safe places to stay, and providing counselling and wrap around services. This event is Women’s Refuge NZ’s largest public fundraiser.

Some of the accomplished, local artists exhibiting this year include Howick’s What: artist/designer Ramon NZ Sculpture Robertson, sculptural OnShore November painter Wendy Hannah 4-19 (closed Mondays) from Buckland’s Beach Where: Operetu, and Clevedon-based Fort Takapuna, Cheryl Wright, owner Devonport of Art Industry.

The story behind her work?

Hannah states: “I explore hard edge design abstracting figurative imagery to represent the diverse achievements and accomplishments of pioneering women. The effect of this work could be interpreted as a representation of the multifaceted nature of women’s roles and contributions. It also signifies how these pioneering women and Wahine Toa have had to adapt and shine.”

NEW ISTING

CHERYL WRIGHT’S: STRENGTH Cheryl Wright’s art is an extension of her love of nature.

She is a multimedia artist currently using hard materials with the intention to produce works that appear soft and encourages the viewer to connect with nature, to respect and protect it. Wright has been exhibiting regularly since 2007 and is the owner of Art Industry, a gallery in Clevedon Village.

Where does the artist get inspiration from?

Wright states: “Joy, remembrance, beauty, harmony, balance, grace, strength, honour, hope. Calendula, cosmos, snapdragons, gladioli, wild poppies, fennel. The symbolic meaning of flowers, their natural beauty and comforting presence. Flowers can say it all!”

Farm Cove 110 Bramley Drive Farm Cove 20 Rapallo Place

Resort style waterfront living Celebrating quintessential waterfront living at its best, this property showcases panoramic water views and is complimented by both a tennis court and a beautiful swimming pool. Comprising diverse living areas all with spectacular water views and savouring a true sense of privacy and tranquillity. Elegant timeless interior décor is bathed in natural light and offers quality fittings, finishes and appliances, the kitchen is the hub of the home and provides a wonderful ambience for family gatherings day and night. Imagine a game of tennis before a swim and evening barbeque on those long hot balmy evenings in summer. Close to Saint Kentigern Secondary College, motorway access, local shops, cafes and the conveniently located Half Moon Bay Marina with a regular ferry service to Auckland’s CBD.

5

2

3

2

International Tender (unless sold prior)

Closing 4pm, Sat 18 Nov 2023 85 Picton Street, Howick, Auckland View Sat/Sun 12-12.30pm Angela Rudling 027 477 0176 Michael Chi 021 886 363 Joyce Chen 021 252 0676 BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, HOWICK, LICENSED REAA 2008

bayleys.co.nz/1852442 JH18422

18 | Thursday, October 26, 2023

www.eastlife.co.nz

STYLE DIRECTION

Talking of trending hues, she says, “Its pops of zingy colour in vivid pink, cheerful yellow and cobalt blue.

Metallics and foils are in.”

Passionate about home styling Maree Peary, the lady behind Style + Soul, home styling solutions talks to FARIDA MASTER about creatively transforming spaces.

A

s a little girl Maree fascinatedly watched her mum work her magic with an array of fabrics and colours at her soft furnishings workshop.

Growing up surrounded by yards of textile and textures, the home stylist and soft furnishings specialist, instinctively gravitated towards setting up a Passementrie business, importing fabrics, trims, tassels and tapes from Germany and France. Followed by a stint at a textile showroom in Parnell for almost 15 years, Maree, has now come a full circle with being in the business of home styling for 27 years.

You can tell she knows the warp and weft in fabric as she works with the aesthetics of soft furnishings, window dressings, drapes, and blinds.

“I understand the content, thread and different types of fabrics you require for upholstery,” she says, giving us a quick lesson on it.

“It’s better to have high polyester content in the fabric if the sun is in your lounge. Also, for outdoor furniture, the fabric must be UV resistant, water and mould resistant and be able to withstand weather conditions. The hotter the upholstery gets, it breaks down the fabric and fades it too.”

With regards to curtains and drapes, having the right fabric for window treatments, not only protects the home from the sun but also your artworks and furniture, is the sage advice.

There are so many factors

that come to play whilst window dressing. “It’s the insulation, warmth, privacy, and the positive effect on the home and its occupants”, she says about infusing the space with personal flair.

It’s vital to understand the client and their lifestyle, and work accordingly.

Having just returned from a relaxed holiday in Istanbul and Greece, Maree admits she’s in love with the vivid colours of Turkish and Moroccan textiles, imbued in their fabrics, rugs and tiles.

Influenced by travel, photography, and nature, her personal style leans more towards mixed aesthetics.

“Modern mixed with Mediterranean. It comes through collected treasures and artworks that both my partner and me have collected over the years,” says the small business owner who also runs an online store selling home styling solutions with an assortment of cushions, throws, Fair Trade gifts, home decor and tableware.

Talking of trending hues, she says, “Its pops of zingy colour in vivid pink, cheerful yellow and cobalt blue. Metallics and foils are in. There are the soft neutrals.

Working with sustainable, recycled, and ecofriendly materials is trending too.”

This creative stylist particularly enjoys bringing memories to life.

Restoring family heirlooms that are hard to replace, is a great way to share your family history with future generations.

Maree’s been often called to

breathe life into vintage furniture underlined with sentiments.

“It could be your mum’s chair that reminds you so much of her. Like the time I was asked to refurbish an old leather and timber armchair that was left out in the sun. It needed some loving restoration.”

Maree’s team of upholsterers customised it in a very

contemporary way while still maintaining a traditional look.

The rundown chair was restored with a new spring, foam, and digitally printed velvet fabric.

“I get such a buzz from seeing the creative transformation and style as it all comes together for a client,” she smiles.

“Transforming a house for sale by decluttering and giving each

room a sense of purpose, also gives me a high.

“Equally satisfying is collaborating with other people like painters, builders and photographers,” enthuses Maree about amping up the look of a personal space — as she adds a touch of romance along with a calibrated balance of classic with the contemporary.

OUR SERVICES: Home Styling whether you are selling or staying • Room refreshes • Custom made drapes and blinds • Custom made cushions • Reupholstery services • Custom made furniture • Online store - Cushions, Throws, Tableware, Home Decor & Giftware

Contact Maree on: 021 271 0998 | www.styleandsoul.co.nz

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GARDENING HACKS FOR BEGINNERS With the cost-of-living crisis escalating, National Gardening Week hopes to shine a light on the multiple benefits of growing your own vegetables. More people are living off their land and growing more for less. Even if you’ve never planted peas or potatoes, peppers or pumpkins, there is never a better time to start. To help you get started Yates has tips for budding gardeners. > Clear plastic sushi or salad ‘clamshell’ containers make great mini greenhouses for getting seeds started. Just poke a few vent holes in the lid, fill the bottom half with seed raising mix and sow your seeds. Add a little bit of water, close the lid, and place the container in a sunny spot. > If you’re planting out seedlings in cooler temperatures, you can protect them from frost, and slugs or snails by using 2L soft drink bottles. Take off the lid, cut off the bottom and push the bottle down over the seedling, into the soil.

When the seedling, is ready to face the elements remove the bottle during the day and pop it back on overnight, until the seedling is mature enough to grow on its own. > If you’re short on space, you can start a bag garden. Black soft plastic polybags can be placed anywhere, are inexpensive and are an economical option to replace rigid and heavier pots when growing vegies and herbs. Use bigger sized bags as smaller bags dry out faster in hot weather. > Attract insect pollinators to your vegetable garden with colourful flowers. The more bees and butterflies you have visiting your vegies, the better your harvest will be. > If you have cats in your neighbourhood, make sure there isn’t any exasperating litterbox action in your newly sowed areas by ‘planting’ disposable wooden forks or chopsticks into the soil, to discourage digging… or just a bunch of pruning offcuts pushed into the soil. > Take advantage of sunny house or garage walls to grow tall tomatoes.

Plant seeds in polybags and hang lengths of stretchy cotton plant ties from cup hooks under the eaves. You can spiral wrap it around the main stems to hang up the plant, then gradually train it to full height. Even a tomato plant heavily laden with fruit will hang quite comfortably from stretchy plant ties. > If you’re growing beetroot, there’s a good trick to maximise your results: soak the seeds in water overnight before you sow. When the seeds sink in the water, they’re ready. Each ‘seed’ is actually a cluster of one to four true seeds, protected by a corky outer coating. > Double the life of your vegetables by sprouting them from scraps that may normally get thrown out, including lettuce, celery, bok choy, leeks, and onions. Simply place the cut base of the vegetable in an inch of water, place in good light and change the water every couple of days. Once roots have shown on the cuttings, the sprouted vegetables can be planted out in the garden, or transferred into pots, to grow on into new plants. > Grow your vegetables from seed instead of seedlings. The math is simple, you get dozens more plants from a packet of seeds, for a fraction of the cost. > Join a garden club or community garden and learn everything you need to know from the pros.

Yates spokesperson, Fiona Arthur says, “Growing your own vegies is a never-ending learning process and so much fun. There is nothing better than picking you own vegies to pop in the pot—not to mention the massive savings that can be made.”

Oh That’s So Crafty Quirky upcycled, vintage china, mugs and other crafty stuff. Find the perfect unique gift for yourself, friends or family.

Come and enjoy a walk through the garden and wetlands. You are welcome to bring a picnic, sit down and relax, and revel in the beauty of the surroundings.

Our plates are handpicked by Emma and 95% of our plates are sourced from Hospice shops around NZ.

ohthatssocrafty@gmail.com

125 Potts Rd, Whitford www.ayrlies.co.nz

Open Monday to Friday 9am–4pm; Saturdays by appointment.

Admission $20 online pre-payment preferred or cash.

Unfortunately no children under 12 years or dogs permitted.

DY0983

See us at the Howick Market!

20 | Thursday, October 26, 2023

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SMALL KITCHEN DESIGN IDEAS Who doesn’t want a spacious kitchen with sky high ceiling, a beautiful view and natural light flowing in? However, a lot of us must make do with a tight layout and less than idea storage space. Some design hacks and space solutions to maximise efficiency and streamlines your kitchen space.

LAYOUTS:

SPACE SAVERS:

> Galley: a galley kitchen utilises a middle aisle flanked with cabinets and appliances on one or both sides. Ensure there’s enough room for your kitchen cabinet doors to swing open all the way. > U-shaped: this horseshoeshaped layout features cabinets and appliances on three sides. You can place an island in the middle for extra workspace if you have room. > L-shaped: this layout efficiently utilises a corner of the room with cabinets and appliances on two sides. It gives you a triangle shaped workspace with everything you need within easy reach.

> Small appliances: standardsized appliances can take up a lot of room. Choose a smaller dishwasher, refrigerator, and stove to free up space. > Shelves: increase storage possibilities. Shelves come in various materials to match your decor. Create more storage and décor space with industrial style open shelving in small columns. > Stackable containers: maximise useable space and look good on shelves and inside cabinets. > Accessories: under-cabinet storage containers and slideout pot organisers can increase the functionality of your kitchen and keep it organised.

If you’re designing a new kitchen, talk to an expert for more spacesaving ideas.

COLOURS: > All white: opting for an all-

white kitchen can make the space feel bigger due to its lightening reflecting nature.

Smooth, glossy cabinet fronts and a cooktop set in matching countertops makes it a clean and gleaming space to work with. > Neutral: a more neutralleaning colour palette, adds an open and serene feel to it.

K I T C H E N S

EFFECTS OF WORLD EVENTS ON HOUSING As global uncertainties rise, New Zealand’s appeal as a permanent residence is on the upswing, as noted by Bayley’s Angela Rudling.

D I S T I N C T I O N

H O M E O F B E AUT I FU L

In the past when world events shook the northern hemisphere’s stability, many Americans and Europeans added New Zealand to their residential shopping list. With New Zealand being touted as one of the world’s most desirable countries to visit, it is no surprise we are experiencing interest from offshore in the coming months.

In recent years restrictions have made immigration and the purchase of property more challenging for those without a New Zealand passport however with the current election results and promises of a new system for overseas buyers, we are already receiving buyer enquiry from offshore again.

Our housing market has been measured of late but since the election we are experiencing a new volume of positive enquiries and sales despite the interest rates being

slightly higher than what we have been used to over the previous years.

It is unlikely that interest rates will subside in the immediate future, and we are now experiencing our new normal. On a worldwide scale we are very fortunate to be living well away from most of the international unrest and can enjoy our beautiful New Zealand with its relatively peaceful environment and mild weather.

It is not a surprise that international interest is back, and may very well increase yet still as we head toward 2024.

So, if you are considering either buying or selling over the next few months and would like a one-on-one discussion regarding your property, please feel free to contact Angela.

Proudly working with her multi-cultural team of real estate professionals, achieving excellent results in all market conditions.

T H E A-T E A M

Angela Rudling | 027 477 0176

BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, HOWICK, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

W I T H

Bespoke Kitchen Design in Auckland Call us now to start creating your dream kitchen!

09 533 7183 249 Moore St, Howick www.labellakitchens.co.nz info@labellakitchens.co.nz

angela.rudling@bayleys.co.nz

TOP 5%

OF BAYLEYS SALES PEOPLE 2022/2023

$800 MILLION DOLLAR CLUB

JH18306

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HALLOWEEN: TRICKY TREATS

The countdown is on for All Hallows Eve and, thanks to Countdown we have scarily easy recipes to ensure we dish out the treats and avoid falling victim to tricks on October 31. To learn how to make a whole ghost (‘host’!) of Halloween themed dishes, see the recipe page at www.countdown.co.nz.

QUESADILLA MUMMIES > 1 pack of 10 mini tortillas > ½ cup taco sauce > 2 cups tasty cheese, grated

> Cooking oil spray > 6tsp sour cream > Black olives > 1 avocado, pitted > 1 lemon

Preheat oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Line two oven trays with baking paper. Slice four mini tortillas into one centimetre strips.

Spread taco sauce evenly over the remaining tortillas and sprinkle with grated tasty cheese.

Arrange tortilla strips on top of bases to resemble bandages, trimming if needed.

Spray a little oil onto the mummies and bake for 8-10 minutes, until golden and cheese has melted, then set them aside to cool slightly.

Mash the avocado with a squeeze of lemon juice, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Spoon half teaspoons of sour cream, topped with small pieces of black olives, onto each mummy to form eyes. Serve with mashed avocado and extra sauce.

Make the most of it.

EYEBALL JELLY CUPS > 17gm lime jelly > Marshmallows > Smarties > Black and red writing icing Prepare jelly as directed on its packet, divide it among six one cup glasses before leaving it to

set in the fridge.

To make the eyes, halve marshmallows horizontally, then top their sticky sides with Smarties. Use writing icing to draw veins and pupils on the eyes.

When the jelly is set, top with eyeballs and serve.

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WHERE IS SANTA?

EVENTS WHAT’S ON OUT EAST

Older Kiwis, full of cheer, are being encouraged to don the big red suit to help avoid a Santa shortage come December.

T

he last three years have seen fewer New Zealanders apply for the top job, leaving shopping centre thrones empty, mantlepieces bare and wish lists unread. But with life returning to normal after the pandemic, there’s never been a better time to spread yuletide cheer.

Reportedly, talent agency, Scene to Believe is experiencing widespread Santa shortages and is struggling to get talent numbers back to pre-pandemic levels.

Being a Christmas character on the Santa set is the perfect casual job to boost budgets ahead of Christmas, says Scene to Believe managing director, Stefan Hutton.

“Posing for a photo with Santa is an annual tradition for families everywhere, we have a plethora of fantastic roles available in the North and South Island for grandparents, retirees, the semiretired and everyone in between!” said Hutton.

“We’re particularly short in the Santa department, so we’re calling on older Kiwis to throw their Santa’s hat in the ring and apply.”

“Becoming a Santa’s helper is a great way for seniors to be more involved in their local community, interact with

TAX TALK

WHO CAN APPLY TO HELP SANTA THIS YEAR?

young people and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.”

Experienced Santa, Tony Hooper has been in the role for several years and says the job is perfect for older people wanting to dip their toe back into the workforce.

“Being a Santa is by far the best work I’ve ever done,” says Hooper. “It’s flexible, I work when I want, and I spend my days talking to young families and getting in the festive spirit.

“It’s also a great way to earn extra cash right before Christmas, which is when I need it most. And the best part is, I can still receive my pension!”

> Santas come in all shapes, sizes, and ages > All you need is a love of Christmas and a positive, friendly personality > You will be taken to Santa’s workshop to learn the magical ways > You will be gifted with Santa’s full outfit that has been prepared specially from Santa! > Need to be jolly, have a great hohoho and enjoy working with children To find out more information and to register your interest as Santa or another character, visit www.scenetobelieve.co.nz

THE OBSERVOLOGIST

Many young Kiwis venture into New Zealand’s great outdoors, especially during spring and summer. However, as Mia and Leo discover, such adventures are not to be taken lightly. While delivering a fun story for young readers, this book teaches basic outdoor knowledge so children may enjoy our native bush safely.

Keep your eyes peeled as this intriguing new book is set to hit the shelves. Designed to enlighten youngsters (aged seven and up), The Observologist sees various species of the world’s smallest creatures placed under the microscope.

Including plenty of illustrations, this fun, factual, scientific guide is liable to educate adults too.

Gillian Candler & Gavin Mouldey (illustrator): Mia & Leo Go Wild | RRP $24.99 | Potton & Burton

Giselle Clarkson: The Observologist | RRP $39.99 | Gecko Press

ORCHID SPRING SHOW

Howick Orchid Society annual spring show, Saturday, October 28, Fencible Lounge, Uxbridge Road, Howick. Open to the public 9.30am-3.30pm, $2 per adult, children under 12 free. Plants for sale, accessories, fertilisers, advice.

EASTERN DISTRICT COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

Wednesday, November 1, 7pm.

Everyone is welcome to listen to our live music or come and sing or play an instrument. Bucklands and Eastern Beaches War Memorial Hall, Wharf Road, Bucklands Beach. Non-members $5. For more information phone Bev on 021 11 56 866.

U3A PAKURANGA

Learn, laugh, live. Interested in preventing online scams? The next meeting of the U3A Pakuranga is on Monday, November 6 at St Andrew’s Church Centre, Vincent Street, Howick at 1.45pm. Visitors welcome. Further information ring Robert 021 1490069.

BOOKS: THE GREAT OUTDOORS MIA & LEO GO WILD

Citizens Advice Bureau Pakuranga is hosting a free community information session on tax being facilitated by the IRD on Friday, October 27 from 10am to 1.30pm at Howick Local Board Room, Pakuranga Library Building, 7 Aylesbury street, Pakuranga. Topics covered will be tax codes and rates, foreign income, student loans, child support etc. To register, text on 021 459 520 or email settlement.pakuranga@cab.org.nz.

SINGLES CLUB

New Horizon’s Singles Social and Friendship Club for 50s up. If you’re looking to make new friends, we generate our own fun and entertainment . Outings, dining out, walks, movies, summer and BBQs. We meet at the Barrel Inn Howick on the first Thursday of each month from 6.30pm. Contact Rachel 021 02691679 or Mike 021 840141 or www.aucklandsingles-social-club.org.nz.

FINALLY, IT’S HERE – NEW & IMPROVED APP

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Ph: (09) 271 8000 | E: info@times.co.nz | 10 Central Terrace, Howick

Thursday, October 26, 2023 | 23

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PUZZLE TIME 1

2

3

8

4

5

6

7

ACROSS

9

10

11 12

13

15

14

17

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19

18

20

21 23

22

1. Ominous (8) 6. Brood (4) 8. Swallow (4) 9. Island (English Channel) (8) 10. Irritable (5) 11. Brainy (6) 13. Balm (6) 15. Dimension (6) 17. Season (6) 19. Advantage (5) 22. Undressed (8) 23. Peruse (4) 24. Deliver (4) 25. Recall (8)

To enter the draw visit www.eastlife.co.nz.

One entry per email address / person; entries close November 01, 2023. Winners notified by phone or email.

DOWN

2. Toughen (5) 3. Momentum (7) 4. Snare (4) 5. Deride (8) 6. Combine (5) 7. Avert (7) 12. Unseemly (8) 14. Flier (7) 16. Panacea (7) 18. Nonsense (5) 20. Dodge (5) 21. Cheese (4)

SUDOKU

25

24

WIN!

Quick Puzzle NO. 8133

Cryptic Puzzle NO. 8133 ACROSS 1.

Ought to get back again and to take responsibility (8).

6. Travel free to the East (4).

8. Regard as a tourist attraction (4).

9. The pretty girl put in the shade didn’t take it lying down (8).

10. Not a drink for the slim (5).

11. To beat the time by a hour, has to shift (6).

13. A seat in the sun? Rot! (6).

15. A crack from the cheeky (6).

17. Throws the ball in and it glides along (6).

19. A characteristic tread (5).

22. At the plant the man is sour (8).

23. Meeting each half way is right (4).

24. Spare you rely on (4).

25. The officials lead the rest astray (8).

RARE OPPORTUNITY

14. In the ocean, swimming, it got poison (7).

16. It’s clear the one inside is ill (7).

18. Unsmiling, is back (5).

20. Semi-retired, he starts out watching the money (5).

21. Standing, with a arm round a young girl (4).

A great day out to share with family and friends, NZ Sculpture OnShore is a great opportunity to enjoy a dazzling range of outdoor art in a beautiful setting whilst actively supporting a great cause. This is one of the rare occasions that you can visit the historic Operetu Fort and tunnels at this rich cultural location. From Saturday, Nov 4 to Sunday, Nov 19 from 10am-5pm, we have three double passes to give away this week. Could it be yours?

CODE CRACKER puzzle no. 114 – FILL IN THE BLANKS WITH THE WORDS BELOW

DOWN

2. Jack is one among many (5).

3. Relaxed while the bandage was taken off? (7).

4. Get weaving on the confounded thing? (4).

5. Denied having carried out another attack (8).

6. King of the classroom? (5).

7. What turned one out when one went into the kitchen? (7).

12. The cats are hiding right inside the clump of pansies (8).

THE SUN, THE MOON AND THE TIDES

Solutions under Public Notices in the Classifieds.

SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER Sun: Rise 6:18am Set 7:49pm Moon: Rise 8:18pm Set 6:14am High Tide: 8:04am 8:23pm

WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER Sun: Rise 6:23am Set 7:45pm Moon: Rise 3:29pm Set 4:20am High Tide: 4:07am 4:47pm

FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER Sun: Rise 6:21am Set 7:47pm Moon: Rise 5:53pm Set 5:17am High Tide: 6:15am 6:40pm

MONDAY 30 OCTOBER Sun: Rise 6:17am Set 7:50pm Moon: Rise 9:30pm Set 6:46am High Tide: 8:52am 9:12pm

THURSDAY 26 OCTOBER Sun: Rise 6:22am Set 7:46pm Moon: Rise 4:42pm Set 4:50am High Tide: 5:14am 5:45pm

SATURDAY 28 OCTOBER Sun: Rise 6:20am Set 7:48pm Moon: Rise 7:05pm Set 5:45am High Tide: 7:12am 7:33pm

TUESDAY 31 OCTOBER Sun: Rise 6:16am Set 7:51pm Moon: Rise 10:41pm Set 7:23am High Tide: 9:39am 10:01pm

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24 | Thursday, October 26, 2023

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