Times/EastLife - 28 February 2024

Pakuranga’s Helen Manson has concluded a mission looking into human trafficking for international Christian relief and development agency Tearfund.

Manson, who attended Macleans College, is a humanitarian photographer and storyteller. For the last 13 years, she’s been covering global issues across 47 countries. Projects have ranged from famine, refugee settlements, post war environments, child sponsorship and micro-enterprise, to trauma counselling and disaster zones. Recently, she was on assignment for one of New Zealand’s largest aid and development agencies, Tearfund. “My job is to learn about, and then help bring to life, the work of the incredible local organisations they partner with around the globe,’ Manson said.

“One of the biggest humanitarian challenges our world is currently facing is the fight against the fastest growing criminal industry – human trafficking.”

She went to three countries for Tearfund to find out what’s being done.

“The Pacific Islands are known to most Kiwis as an island paradise – and they are. Yet it is here that Tearfund, funded by Kiwis, works alongside a local organisation called Homes of Hope – a restorative care shelter and training facility for survivors of sexual abuse and human trafficking,” said Manson.

“There, survivors as young as 11 recover with the help of counsellors, social workers, and a community of women who have been through similar experiences. The residents learn valuable life skills like sewing, baking, cooking, housekeeping, farming and agriculture; skills that will allow them to build a different future.”

Once safety nets are in place in the villages and homes, the women and girls reintegrate into the community. Some decide to study at university, others find jobs or some start their own small businesses.

 Turn to page 3

Times photo Wayne Martin

Zoe Walker in Black Flash.

100 years and full circle

Pera Evelyn Vine (nee Yelcich) turned 100 years old on February 21.

She was born at Waiuku Hospital. Her parents separated 18 months later after her sister Colleen was born. Colleen will be 99 this year. Ninety six years ago the world was a different place with not a lot of help on offer for a single working mother with two girls to support. Pera’s mother decided to place the girls in Star of The Sea, a Catholic Orphanage in Granger Road that had been built a few years previously, so that she could work. Pera was only four-yearsold at this time but still recalls the sisters taking her down the track to Howick Beach and her doll being broken by the older girls.

The two sisters were moved to St Michaels, a Catholic Convent in Rotorua, for a further nine years. Her mother then remarried a farmer from Te Aroha and the girls finished their education at the local high school. Her father, a Croatian gum digger, passed away from tuberculosis when she was 12. She only met him twice.

During World War II, the two girls moved back to Auckland, living above a dairy in Customs Street with a relative. They then moved to another aunt’s home before flatting together.

While working as a machinist

making powder puffs, she met her future husband at a dance at the Orange Dance Hall in Newton Road. She and Lewis Vine were engaged after eight weeks and married after six months. She said her wedding day was the best day of her life. Together they had five children and lived in the Blockhouse Bay area. She has nine grandchildren and

many great grandchildren. Pera played golf and bowls and spent a lot of time in her garden and the gardens at Blockhouse Bay Bowls Club. She attributes her long life to keeping active, not smoking, eating good food and not too much alcohol.

When her husband died, Pera bought a three-storey house at 86-years-old and began refurbish-

“

Nearly a century ago the world was a different place with not a lot of help on offer for a single working mother with two young girls to support. ”

ing it. Then she landscaped it herself, carrying pavers and stones at the age of 90 and firewood up from the garage every day in winter. After 10 years in the house, Pera moved into a Ryman Village in Lynfield, taking most of her garden with her in 50 pots for her deck. Pera stopped driving a few years ago and three of her five children have left Auckland. It was decided it might be best that she moved closer to her son in the Howick area. In October last year Pera came back to Howick, 96 years later she’s gone full circle. She now resides at Rymans Bruce McLaren Village where she celebrated her 100th birthday. Her younger sister Colleen is in Blockhouse Bay and turns 100 next year. The girls have always stayed very close.

Pera Vine has just celebrated her 100th birthday. Photo supplied

TURNING THE SPOTLIGHT ONTO HUMAN TRAFFICKING

 Continued from page 1

Homes of Hope also runs awareness initiatives in villages, churches and schools. They teach communities what human trafficking and sexual exploitation is, how to report it, and how to provide wrap-around support to the survivor.

“But what impressed me the most was Homes of Hope spearheading a human trafficking task force made up of all the key stakeholders on the island – government representatives, religious institutions and not-for-profit organisations,” Manson said.

“Together, they’ve created a human trafficking awareness toolkit that has been released nationwide to shine a spotlight on this important issue.”

In the Solomon Islands, Manson learned that fishing, mining and logging are industries where trafficking is rife. Women and girls are forced into marriage, people are exploited for their labour and others are forced into

commercial sexual exploitation.

Unfortunately, she said, family members are often the unintentional facilitators, with poverty being a major factor in making people vulnerable to exploitation. Because families don’t have enough money for food or school fees, out of desperation s they sometimes ‘look the other way’ and sell one son or daughter to help provide for the rest.

Tearfund’s partners in the Solomons, Ola Fou and Hope Trust, funded by Kiwi donations and the New Zealand government, work together to fight human trafficking in the Solomon Islands, while also improving rural livelihoods in eight communities throughout the islands.

Ola Fou provides people with the correct tools and training to produce better quality crops. This means they can provide food for their families and sell high-quality produce for income at the market. These farming and agriculture initiatives are

teaching communities to be economically empowered, so people aren’t pressured to look for risky work or exploit their children to survive. Hope Trust runs awareness initiatives in communities and in schools, teaching about human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Discussing sex is taboo in the Solomons, so Hope Trust is encouraging people to speak up and break the culture of silence. They also provide counselling services to survivors of abuse, offer support to local law enforcement and help communities to produce their own by-laws.

In Nepal, Tearfund has come alongside a local partner called Share and Care. “I visited their work in some of the most remote locations, on the border of India, to prevent human trafficking,” said Manson.

“I was able to see how they come alongside vulnerable communities that are often lured by false promises. Traffickers offer

From the maunga to the sea

Panmure

a better life in a shiny city, tricking and forcing people against their will into sex work.”

In Nepal, Share and Care works in communities through a self-help group model that is a mixture of trafficking awareness initiatives and farming and enterprise workshops.

“Both are having a considera-

ble impact in turning this situation around,” Manson said.

“The work being done in these countries is shining a light on humanity at its worst in the hopes that perpetrators will be brought to justice and that people will be equipped with tools to build a better, safer future. Here’s to that.”

Panmure is a special place of vibrant energy, deep history and cultural significance.

Panmure is one of the city’s best-connected centres. With great bus and train connections, and wonderful natural features, it’s easy to see why more people will be calling Panmure home over the next decade.

Guided by a masterplan, we’re working on a significant programme of urban regeneration, with investment in new homes, transport options, walking and cycling connections, community spaces and facilities.

These developments are part of the urban regeneration of Panmure led by Eke Panuku, on behalf of Auckland Council. The goal is to build on Panmure’s distinct landscape, good infrastructure, transport connectivity, community facilities and local amenities to ensure it continues to be a great place to live, visit and do business.

See more about the masterplan: ekepanuku.co.nz/neighbourhoods/panmure

Clifton

Panmure

Helen Manson is on a mission.

Photo Helen Manson

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Taking on gangs

Law and order has been top of mind for many communities across New Zealand for several years, and for Aucklanders in particular it was in the form of the ram-raid scourge.

New Zealanders watched on horrified as the previous Government took too long to support property owners in a meaningful way.

But Botany residents should be comforted that when it comes to the criminal gangs, you will not see the same slackness from the coalition Government.

For the past five years, the Labour Government allowed gangs to be an attractive option for some young people. In that time, the gangs recruited more than 3000 members. There are now estimated to be 9000 of them.

In that time, gang-related violence, public intimidation and shootings rocketed, with violent crime up a totally unacceptable 33 per cent.

This calls for a forceful and timely response, and that’s what the Government is doing.

We are right now drafting legislation to give police new tools to deal with gangs. We are banning all gang insignia in public places and will create greater powers to stop gangs from gathering in groups and communicating.

Police will be able to issue disper-

From the Prime Minister Christopher Luxon

sal notices that will require gang members to immediately leave the area and not associate with one another for seven days. And the courts will be able to issue orders that will stop specified offenders from associating or communicating with one another for up to three years.

For too long, gangs have been allowed to endanger and intimidate law-abiding people, and these laws will support police to change that.

The Government has also moved quickly on the length of time some people are spending on jobseeker benefits. The Minister for Social Development and Employment has written to MSD to make it clear all obligations and sanctions are applied around these benefits.

The numbers are staggering. Since 2017 the number of people on jobseeker benefits has increased by around 70,000. Around 40,000 of

them were on that benefit for more than a year.

Worse, work-ready job seekers are projected to spend an average of 13 years on a benefit, while teenagers who go onto welfare are forecast to be trapped there for an average of 24 years.

This is not acceptable, and we are changing it.

Under this Government, if job seekers fail to attend job interviews, to complete their pre-employment tasks, or to take work that is available, there will be consequences.

And, from June, MSD will begin work check-ins for job seekers who have been on benefit six months or longer, particularly young people.

These will focus on those who are work-ready but do not have a Work and Income case manager and will make sure beneficiaries are taking steps to find employment and are receiving support to help them into employment. Failure to attend will ultimately mean a financial sanction could be applied.

On a totally different note, I was delighted recently to be able to spend some time in my electorate collecting money for the Heart Foundation. They do great work educating people on how to avoid heart disease and helping to fund life-saving heart research.

They are certainly worthy of your support.

Prime Minister and Botany MP Christopher Luxon has taken time out of his very busy schedule to help raise money for a worthy cause.

Luxon spent time with a group of keen volunteers at the Botany Town Centre on February 23 to seek donations from the public for the Heart Foundation.

The organisation is asking Kiwis to back heart research through its ‘Big Heart Appeal’, its largest annual fundraiser.

Its medical director, Dr Gerry Devlin, says as heart attacks, heart failure and heart disease continue to rise, especially among the younger population, there’s never been a better time to donate toward life-saving heart research and overseas

training for New Zealand cardiologists, funded by the Heart Foundation.

“Heart disease claims the life of one New Zealander every 90 minutes, so it’s vital we invest in life-saving heart research to help keep families together for longer.

“Globally, we are seeing early deaths from heart disease hitting their highest levels.

“Cases of heart attacks, heart failure and strokes among the under-75s had been declining since the 1960s, due to better prevention and management.

“But now we’re starting to see a reversal of six decades of progress.

“Regardless of age, gender or background, heart issues can happen to anyone.”

Christopher Luxon, centre, speaks to a young member of the public while collecting donations for the Heart Foundation. Photo supplied

Film project explores insight of psychosis Trolley race day thrills

A bit of rain didn’t deter racers and the public at the Beachlands Maraetai Trolley Derby at Omana Regional Park on Sunday.

John Stacey from the derby organisers Pohutukawa Coast Rotary Club said they had 37 entrants, the majority under the age of 12 and the youngest eight. “Despite the weather it didn’t dampen peoples’ enthusiasm with some great racing and a few wipe outs, no one was injured. All the money raised will go back into the local community,” he said.

The course winds through paddocks with breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island and Rangitoto.

Daredevil drivers race 500m downhill in homemade trolleys. Trolleys can reach speeds of 41km/h and the layout of the track often results in thrills and spills.

The winners were:

 Age 15+ category, Kirk Vosper (also King of the Hill);

 Age 12-14 category, Josh Metcalf

 Age 7-11 category, Jay Brunton

East Auckland’s Te Tuhi contemporary art gallery is helping to bring a film project to New Zealand exploring the subject of mental illness.

Entitled The Directors, it’s a new collaboration between British artist Marcus Coates and five people who have lived experience of psychosis.

The gallery says following a prolonged period of research and development, each of the five directed Coates in a film where he attempted to enact their experiences.

“Mark Banham, Lucy Dempster, Anthony Donohoe, Marcus Gordon, and Stephen Groves each chose a place of significance where they directed Coates to play themselves as they voiced instructions off-camera.

“Commissioned by Artangel in London, UK, and originally screened in five locations in and around Churchill Gardens Estate in the London borough of Pimlico, Te Tuhi’s collaboration with Artangel mirrors the same format and

presents the project in five central Auckland locations.”

Coates’ research for the project began in 2017 in the UK and saw him work alongside psychiatrist Dr Isabel Valli, observing her consultations with patients.

The focus of his research considered the dynamics of personal understanding and empathy and the role of the wider community and public attitudes, Te Tuhi says.

“The Directors seeks to establish a creative and reciprocal dialogue between

A still image from one of the lms being screened as part of an art project involving the Te Tuhi gallery in Pakuranga.

Coates and each director; a shared attempt to describe and understand the individuality and complexity of their experiences.

“For both the artists and the directors, initiating this empathetic process was motivated by a need to share the directors’ stories, together with the necessity to confront and reduce public stigma around psychosis.”

Toi Ora Live Arts Trust director Susanne Ritzenhoff says the organisation’s excited to host the screening of one of

the films, entitled The Directors: Stephen “Mental health distress is much more common and talked about these days, yet it’s still so hard to explain how it impacts individuals.

“Toi Ora is a creative space offering a nurturing and inclusive space for individuals navigating mental distress.

“Feeling safe is crucial for the success of Toi Ora with so many of our participants experiencing deep misunderstandings on a daily basis.

“The Directors offers viewers an insight into five individuals’ experiences of mental distress and we hope by showing these films people might develop an increased understanding and empathy for those affected by mental distress.”

Te Tuhi is presenting the project locally in association with Auckland Arts Festival 2024.

It runs from February 24 to March 24 with the films being screened at locations across Auckland.

Photo supplied Artangel

Cassie O’Connor Times photo Wayne Martin

In

• The Good Home with their special butter chicken

• Marbled with their Irish Pork and Welsh Dragon hotdogs

• Benjarong with their famous Thai cuisine dishes

• Despensa with their tacos

• Daisy Chang with their specialty dumplings

• Village Wholefoods Café with keto deserts

We will have vendors along Picton Street with their cuisines including South African, Kiwi Seafood, Rwanda, Lebanese, Danish, Vietnamese, Hawaiian, Portuguese, Hungarian, Scandinavian and so many more.

Moore Street will be a hive of entertainment for the children and Fencible Park will be an allocated area for chilling out and enjoying the food and entertainment.

Uxbridge Arts team will have tote bags available to decorate, in the Park.

Don’t miss out on the array of entertainment on the main stage at the top of Uxbridge Road where a diverse range of buskers and musicians will be entertaining us throughout the event.

Take the opportunity to have some

henna designs applied and enjoy the authentic sari dressing workshops, at the top of Picton Street. Our Great Goblet Race starts at midday – come and cheer six of our ‘young hospitality stars’ race to the finish line.

A schedule of all events will be on our Facebook and website and the weather forecast is looking great –so don’t miss out on the fun.

New branch for Pregnancy Help in Pakuranga Plaza

Pregnancy Help has opened a new branch in Pakuranga Plaza “to bring hope and resources” to the local community.

Branch coordinator Katy Clayton says the new space will make it easier for those needing Pregnancy Help’s resources as it is in the immediate area of the community library, with the Citizens Advice Bureau next door and Plunket one level up in the plaza.

Pregnancy Help is a charity set up more than 40 years ago and provides free and client-focused practical assistance, information and advice for mothers during pregnancy and early childcare.

“It will be a wonderful community resource and we expect to see a lot of walk-in clients seeking and using our services and resources,” Clayton says.

Those resources include baby

clothing (up to size 2), baby bedding, nappies and maternity clothing and bras which are all provided free.

“We see a lot of expectant mums from all over who really need those items with cost of living issues impacting on so many whanau,” says Clayton.

“It is also encouraging to see so many mums using our services to live in a more sustainable way, sometimes swapping clothing or donating baby clothing and equipment and then returning it later so others can also make use of those essential items.”

President of the organisation, Rachel Vicars, says Pregnancy Help relies heavily on donations and funding. In the past year donations have been made to 10,000 whanau with 134,939 items of baby and children’s clothing,

53,950 reusable nappies, 4209 items of baby bedding and 3709 maternity garments.

“All of these items represent gifts of caring as the only way that Pregnancy Help can provide this level of practical support for the community, by donating items and knitting items such as woollen singlets,” she says.

The centre would benefit greatly from having volunteers so if you have some time available and would love to give back to the community, contact Katy Clayton for more information.

„ Pregnancy Help’s new outlet is at 10 Aylesbury Street, Pakuranga Plaza. Level 1, suite 101.

„ Monday – Friday 9am- 3pm. Donations can be made be made during those hours or phone 3732599.

Parents welcome at Playcentre Open Week

Playcentres across New Zealand are inviting families with children from birth to school age for a free visit during Playcentre Open Week, which runs from March 4-8.

The theme for Playcentre Open Week this year is “Whānau tupu ngātahi –families growing together”. Several playcentres in east Auckland are included.

“Each local Playcentre provides a place for whānau and their tamariki to play, learn and grow together, while making connections with other whānau in their community,” says Playcentre Aotearoa chief executive David Moger.

Playcentre is an early childhood education service with a difference. It is the largest parent-led provider of early childhood education in Aotearoa.

“At playcentre we foster the involvement of parents and whānau in early childhood education through play-based learning because we value parents as the first and best educators for their tamariki, says Moger.

Playcentre also offers a free NZQA accredited adult education programme to develop parenting skills and understanding of how tamariki learn and develop.

Rebekah Marcetic, team leader at Howick Playcentre, says open week is a great

opportunity to come get a taste of what playcentre has to offer for the whole family. “Playcentre is a fun place for children to learn through play, and get messy with other tamariki. We also hope that Open Week encourages some curious parents and caregivers through the door who will get to feel the warm playcentre welcome, and experience how the adults also really benefit from coming to sessions, making connections with each other, and developing a sense of belonging.

“We’re really lucky to have lots of playcentres in east Auckland, so hopefully everyone can come along for a visit and find a village for them.”

Charlotte Gray, parent at Bucklands Beach Ohui-aRangi Playcentre, has Arthur

(4) and Matthew (20 months) attending. ”Playcentre has been a really special place for me to play alongside my sons. I get to see them experience milestones and learn new skills,” she says.

“And I’m alongside other mums and dads who just get all the feelings and need for support that comes with parenting. I can come in after a sleepless night and have a big hug and be handed a hot cup of coffee. I have also been able to learn more about my tamariki and how they learn through the free education courses. It’s also helped me support other new parents and their tamariki as they walk through our doors.

“You wouldn’t believe the great chats you can have with three-year-olds on all subjects

from road building to fluid dynamics and gravity when pouring water into a sandpit. Playcentre is unique to New Zealand and such a taonga.”

During Playcentre Open Week whānau are invited to come along for a free visit and support their tamariki to learn through play, whilst meeting other whānau in their local community.

From sand and water play, arts and music, outdoor and messy play to working with wood or clay, there will be a range of resources and experiences on offer.

Playcentre is a nationwide charity with more than 400 centres throughout the country.

„ You can find your local Playcentre at www.playcentre.org.nz.

Three Waters repeal sees Watercare charges rise

„ By LAURA KVIGSTAD, Auckland Council reporter funded by New Zealand on Air

Watercare charges are expected to rise by over 25 percent this July.

At Auckland Council’s Budget Committee on February 20, councillors discussed the consultation material for its 10 year budget called the Long Term Plan.

Cr Chris Darby pointed out that Watercare were raising water and wastewater tariffs by 25.8 percent.

“That is an absolutely considerable number and one that came to us quite recently but it is the product of a post Three Waters environment,” Darby said.

He understood that under Three Waters increases were expected to be around two percent and asked staff for an explanation.

Financial Strategy and Planning general manager Ross Tucker said that Watercare was constrained by council’s debt to revenue limit.

“We need for Watercare to be able to deliver a large capex program which the revenue has to match and be consistent with the debt,” Tucker said.

He said the Watercare board did not see reducing capital expenditure as an option because of the demands for water infrastructure.

Darby felt more information on the increased charges would be helpful to include in the Long Term Plan consultation.

Consultation for the Long Term Plan will run for a month and opens on February 28.

Playcentre is a fun place for children to learn through play, and get messy with other tamariki. Stock image

Pregnancy Help president Rachel Vicars.

Photo supplied

Commercial burglaries still unsolved 17 months on

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Police have been unable to identify the thieves who broke into a group of east Auckland businesses more than a year ago.

Five stores at a retail block in Moore Street, Howick, were damaged during burglaries carried out at about 3am on August 23, 2022.

Those targeted were Bin Inn, Pizza Club, Fruit World, Awesome Shop and Yume Sushi.

The incident happened among a well-publicised rise in crime such as ram-raids and smashand-grab burglaries across the country.

Photos taken of the scene later that day showed large panes of glass at the entry of each business smashed and police tape blocking off part of the area.

Police forensic specialists examined the shops for evidence as their owners and staff worked to clean up the mess left behind.

Initial information provided to police suggested the thieves arrived and later fled the scene

in a dark-coloured SUV vehicle.

The five offenders who broke into Bin Inn were filmed in action by the store’s security cameras.

Footage showed the group enter the store with one of them going behind the counter.

Another member of the group stood back and appeared to be filming the others with a mobile phone.

Bin Inn’s owner Chanchal Deol said his store’s till was open and empty at the time.

He believes the offenders filmed their actions to upload to social media.

“They came in and in 30 seconds they’d come and gone,” he said at the time.

“I don’t know how they did it but they broke a glass [at the storefront].

“It’s upsetting. We’ve been celebrating nine years’ business this year and we’re celebrating this month as our [store’s] birthday.”

Deol said he lives close to his store and got there within two minutes of being alerted to the break-in.

Police were already at the

scene when he arrived.

“I was scared to come here at 3am. I called my cousin and he came as well and I called my security company.”

The burglaries drew quick condemnation from local community leaders, including Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown,

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who said he was shocked to hear five shops had been burgled.

“This will be heart-breaking for the business owners and their staff and I hope the perpetrators are quickly brought to justice,” he said.

Seventeen months on and police are yet to bring those

responsible to justice.

A police spokesperson says extensive enquiries have been made into the burglaries.

“Despite efforts to identify those responsible, police have currently exhausted all lines of enquiry and the matter has been filed pending further information coming to light.

“Police have spoken to all those involved regarding this decision, however should new information be received police are open to reassessing the matter.

“Police acknowledge the impact this type of offending can have on the owners of the businesses, as well as the community, and we have provided support to those involved since the incident occurred.”

Police ask people with information that may assist their investigation to phone 105 or go online to https://www.police. govt.nz/use-105, using Update My Report and referencing file number 220823/1432.

Alternatively, phone the free and anonymous Crimestoppers tip-off line on 0800 555 111.

Make your leap year plans come true.

Police examined a group of shops in Howick for evidence after they were broken into in August, 2022. Times file photo Wayne Martin

 By CHRIS HARROWELL

More than 1300 of New Zealand’s rarest, prettiest, and most desirable automotive machines are about to descend on Pakuranga for the eighth Auckland Brit and Euro Classic Car Show.

Staged at Lloyd Elsmore Park this Sunday, March 3, it will showcase a spectacular collection of cars plus a small display of classic motorcycles and military vehicles and food and coffee trucks to keep people’s stomachs full and thirst quenched.

There will also be a rare flyover by a NZ Warbirds aircraft between 12.30pm and 1.30pm.

Among the cars to be displayed are the full range of British and European classics including those made by Aston Martin, Bentley, Jaguar, Lotus, Mini, MG and RollsRoyce, as well as Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Citroen, Ferrari, Fiat, Peugeot, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Renault, Volvo and more.

A special section will showcase a selection of ‘hot hatches’ from the 1980s and 1990s as well as British and European production race cars.

“You don’t have to be a car enthusiast to recognise the styles of the ‘70s and ‘80s hot hatches, like the unforgettable Volkswagen Golf GTI, the Peugeot GTi, and the reintroduction of the MG brand with the Metro,” the show’s organisers say.

“Lesser-known Citroen Visas, BX and AX GTis competed with a vast array of fast Fords wearing Super-

Sport then XR2, XR3 and XR4i badges.

“Then it was the turn of turbo-charging and the huge door graphics that further shouted their sporting prowess.

“Renault with the 5 and 11 Turbos, Fiat with the Uno Turbo, Ford with their RS Turbos, then Lancia with the Delta HF Turbo and Integrale.”

The organisers say those car manufacturers took “fairly mundane every day shopping or family cars” and turned them into “desirable, performance ‘hot hatches’”, with their popularity as strong as ever.

Many automotive enthusiasts believe the hot hatch phenomenon began with the 1976 Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk1, but at a similar time Italian company Alfa Romeo launched its Alfasud, although it wasn’t strictly a hatchback, they say.

“One name that speaks of performance is Lotus and in April, 1979, at the Geneva Motor Show, Chrysler Talbot launched the Lotus Sunbeam.

“Lotus installed a 2.2ltr version of the Lotus 16-valve slantfour cylinder engine. Coupled to a ZF gearbox driving the rear wheels, a rally-ready hot hatch was born.

“At 150 brake horsepower ... this hot hatch eclipsed the front-wheel drive competition, however, like most 1980s cars, it suffered terribly from rust.”

The legendary Cosworth then got into the game with the Ford Sierra RS Cosworth powered by a 2ltr 16v turbo-charged engine producing more than 200bhp.

“Its signature ‘whale-tail’ spoiler led on from the XR4i by-plane version,” the show’s organisers say.

“For the 2024 Auckland Brit

and Euro Classic Car Show, the iconic hot hatch will be part of the central display, with many owners proudly displaying their pride and joy.

“These cars maintain an ageless beauty and are favourites for owners of all ages.”

The show will also celebrate 75 years of Lotus and link the company’s legendary sports cars to the impact they had by taking regular road cars and turning them into “outstanding driving machines”.

“Always a crowd favourite, the hot hatch display will be supported by the grid of race and rally cars under the ‘Brit and Euro Revival’ banner.

“While there’s a large central display, we can’t forget the many classic car owners who bring their favourite British or European car along to the show, or in some cases one of each.”

Steve Wilson and his rare 1986 Fiat Uno Turbo will be among the dedicated classic car owners at this year’s Auckland Brit and Euro Classic Car Show in Lloyd Elsmore Park. Times photo Wayne Martin

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Fox to miss NZ Open

New Zealand Open tournament director Michael Glading has confirmed that leading Kiwi golf professional Ryan Fox will miss the 103rd New Zealand Open beginning at the end of the month due to his PGA tour commitments.

“We have been in constant dialogue with Ryan and this is no surprise to us. I can’t speak highly enough of how great his communication has been and his genuine efforts to make this work” said Glading.

“Naturally, at this point in his career, he needs to focus on his PGA tour card and the new restricted field tournaments have made his scheduling extremely difficult. There was certainly no lack of effort on Ryan’s part to try and attend the New Zealand Open.”

Notwithstanding this loss, the New Zealand Open boasts a field of outstanding New Zealand professionals including PGA Tour Champions multi-winner Steven Alker, Asian Tour winner Ben Campbell, DP World Tour player Daniel Hillier and, arguably one of the world’s rising stars, Kazuma Kobori fresh off three wins on the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia.

They are joined by former New Zealand Open Champion Michael Hendry and winner of last week’s Jennian Homes Charles Tour Race to Tieke event, US-based Kiwi Harry Hillier.

“To have this many top-quality Kiwi players, all of whom are in fine form, makes me optimistic that come March 3, we will be celebrating another New Zealander holding the Broadie Breeze trophy aloft.”

Meanwhile, Fox – from Beachlands – posted on Facebook yesterday: “Unfortunately, I have made the tough decision to miss the New Zealand Open this year. Whilst it is disappointing to miss one of my favourite events, my priority is on succeeding on the PGA Tour and I’ll be staying in the US for the foreseeable future in order to give myself the best chance of doing that. Wishing everyone at the New Zealand Open a fantastic week and I will be back in the future.”

The New Zealand Open tees off between February 29 and March 3 at Millbrook Resort in Queenstown. Live coverage will be available on Sky Sport 6.

For more information about the New Zealand Open visit nzopen.com

National title for rowers

Macleans College Year 13 student Harrison Reeve (Kupe House) and Year 12 student Nathan Strachan (Rutherford) have won a national title at the 2024 New Zealand Rowing Championships at Lake Karapiro.

Reeve and Strachan won the men’s intermediate double sculls national title on February 16, after placing first in the final. They were representing St George’s Rowing Club.

This event is the club championship regatta for New Zealand.

Held alternatively between Lake Karapiro, Cambridge, and Lake Ruataniwha, Twizel, the championships have a rich history; first being held in 1888.

It follows another major

success for students from the school earlier this month [Times, February 7]. A team of five Macleans College students won gold at the North Island Club Championships at Lake Karapiro.

The squad – Isabella Chen (Hillary), Harrison Reeve, Nathan Strachan, Logan Turrall (Te Kanawa) and James Dimock (Te Kanawa) – placed first in the men’s coxed quad, representing St George’s Rowing Club.

Reeve and Strachan also won gold at that event, in the men’s intermediate double sculls. Macleans College rowers now look forward to representing the school at the 2024 Aon Maadi Regatta next month in Twizel.

Macleans College rowers Harrison Reeve and Nathan Strachan with coach Allan Vester.

CAELUM

GATEWAY COORDINATOR

We are looking for a Gateway Coordinator to join our Careers Department. This is a permanent position for 37.5 hours per week term time only

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

CAELUM C E RT E PATET DE290207

HOMESTAY COORDINATOR

International Department

This is a fixed term, part time position of 20 hours per week and will include some evening, weekend and school holiday work.

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

CAELU PATET DE290062

OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL

PART TIME PERMANENT CARETAKER

Start date – Early April | 35 hours per week: Monday – Friday 8.30am – 4.30pm

The role includes managing the day-to-day property tasks, maintenance and repairs and upkeep of school grounds and buildings. We are looking for someone proactive who can self-manage, has pride in their work and has a can-do attitude. The ability to interact well and appropriately as part of the school’s special character is important. The successful candidate will need to have a sound level of fitness to complete tasks, have handyman skills and be prepared to work outdoors.

Please send a cover letter and CV to: syandell@starofthesea.school.nz

Applications close 22 March 2024

ApplicantsforthispositionshouldhaveNZresidency oravalidNZworkvisa.Thesuccessfulapplicantwillbe subjecttoaPoliceCheck.

TEACHER AIDE

Are you ready to make a real difference in a child’s life? We’re seeking a compassionate and dedicated Teacher Aide to join our team at Mission Heights, where we provide exceptional support and a quality education to children with special needs.

As a Teacher Aide, you will work closely with our children, providing individualised support throughout the day. From helping with classroom activities to aiding in personal care tasks, your role will be instrumental in creating a positive and nurturing learning environment.

Do you:

• Have a genuine passion for working with children with special needs.

• Possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Remain calm under pressure and adapt to changing situations.

• Have the fitness and stamina to meet the demands of the role.

• Find joy in helping children achieve their potential.

The hours of work are 8:30-2:30, Monday to Friday, during the school term. Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to jobs@mhp.school.nz

TEACHER AIDES

Farsi & Chinese Speakers

We are looking for two Teacher Aides, a Farsi speaker and a Chinese speaker to join our ESOL Team. These are fixed term positions for 15 hours per week term time only. For more details about the positions and how to apply, please refer to our website: www.pakuranga.school.nz.

NIGHT STAFF

Stand Tū Māia works to support tamariki who live with whānau or are in care, and are vulnerable to cumulative harm and have complex needs.

Nine (9) hour shifts, four night per week - Monday night to Thursday night (36 hours per week).

We are a 24/7 residential care facility looking for a NIGHT SUPPORT PERSON to work shifts from 9.45pm through to 6.45am.

The candidate needs to have a can do attitude – this position requires an active person as children are checked half hourly.

Key Attributes:

• Good timekeeping and reliability

• Common sense

• Friendly & a sense of humour

• Ability to work unattended

• Loyal and trustworthy

• Police vetting & Oranga Tamaki vetting required

Applications close Sunday 10 March 2024 or for an informal chat or visit, contact Michelle Pangestu on 09 5344017 or email your cover letter and CV to: auckland@standforchildren.org.nz

DE289991-v2

STUDENT ADMINISTRATOR

DE290159

This is a busy and varied role which involves interacting with students and the community. A key focus is administrative contact with the students. Duties include daily absences, administering first aid to students, word processing, data entry, second hand uniform sales and general office work. Hours will be 8.15 am – 3.30 pm MondayFriday during the school term. However, some school holiday hours will be required. Commencement date to be negotiated.

The successful applicant will:

• have excellent interpersonal skills

• have strong oral and written communication skills

• be computer literate and able to word process and enter data accurately

• be well organised

• enjoy working in a busy, team environment

• have a sense of humour

• be well presented

• be prepared to undertake a wide range of duties. A first aid certificate is necessary for this role, however, the school will organise training if required.

Application by email, outlining your previous experience and suitability for the position, including CV and two referees to: Lyn Baxter, Principal’s Secretary lbaxter@somint.school.nz

DE290178

Applications close at 4pm, Friday 8 March 2024 DE290163

Macleans College

HOMESTAY CO-ORDINATOR/ ADMINISTRATOR

Macleans College is seeking an enthusiastic, selfmotivated homestay co-ordinator/administrator to join our International Department to support our international students.

This is a fixed term position, 20 hours per week starting mid to late March through to the end of August 2024 (including working through school holidays). Flexible working hours. Contract could be extended by negotiation.

You must be well organized, have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to multitask. We require someone who is competent in all Microsoft Applications and Google Docs. Applicants must have a full driver’s licence.

Applications close on Monday, 4 March 2024

Please email your CV, including the names of 2 referees to Lizzie Simpson, Principal’s PA lizzie.simpson@macleans.school.nz MP290098

SOLUTIONS

CHURCH COMMUNITY

Across – 6, Call to order. 7, R-aps (rev.). 8, De-test-ed.

9, An-G-elo. 10, Rep-a-st.

12, Grills. 15, Ch-ance. 17, A-llspi-ce. 19, I-ran. 20, Tot-Al a-mount. Down – 1, All-’s well. 2, Stud-I-O. 3, Porter. 4, IDes. 5, Orders. 6, Chain.

11, Pl-a-tin-um. 13, Relate. 14, Stills. 15, Creamy (anag.). 16, Cha-N-t. 18, Sets.

FILL IN BLANKS NO. 128

Temporary road closure

Picton St (between Wellington St and Fencible Dr) will be closed from 7am until 3pm on Saturday 2 March 2024 for the Howick Village Cultural Food Festival event.

This closure applies to all except authorised and emergency

Starting a support group or steering a village market is about bringing in change. We’ve got their stories.

LOVE THE BUZZ OF A

VILLAGE MARKET?

There are few nicer things to do on a Saturday morning than visit the local village market.

A Q & A with Sarah Laing who made a career shift from sales development with multinationals to a more community-based Howick Village Association (HVA). As manager of the bustling Howick Village Market, Sarah is passionate about growing and developing the village market. Her biggest takeaway is working with small, startup businesses and watching them flourish.

Q: HOW HAS THE HOWICK VILLAGE MARKET EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS?

The aim was to keep the amazing core of regular stallholders while encouraging new vendors with a focus on local and sustainable goods. For example, shortly after I started three years ago with HVA, Cronch Co became part of the market family, and it was easy to see that they offered

visitors to the market something different for the furry friends of Howick, that is 100 per cent natural with no added chemicals or preservatives, while using bits that might otherwise go to waste.

More recently we have had Christopher and Emma join us with their Pounamu and Aotea stone carving. Knowing that this stone comes from New Zealand, and you an watch them in action as it is carved in front of you in the market square, is amazing!

We have also added stallholders like Eeva from Finland who now resides in east Auckland and makes Lilla Bageri Finnish pastries. She gets up at 2am and make small batches of divine food just for our locals.

Q: WHAT ARE THE SECRET INGREDIENTS TO A SUCCESSFUL MARKET MIX?

> Live music and a place to sit and share food and community conversation.

> The story that brings the product and the stallholder to the market. Many stallholders have been on a journey to create the food or craft that they make. Be it a holistic natural cream because they have been on a cancer journey or they want to educate others of their culture or make food in small batches that brings people together.

> Community, the Shop Local mindset has been in Howick for many decades, and it is that thinking that has stood us strong during Covid/Cyclone Gabrielle and recessions. We see regulars every weekend that come and buy their produce, eggs, and deli treats.

Even the pet pooches in Howick are regulars and walk their owners to their favourite stalls every Saturday morning.

Q: WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR WHEN SELECTING STALLHOLDERS?

We look for local and sustainable products while ensuring there is variety ofproduce and products for our customers.

Q: WHAT’S THE PROCESS FOR NEW VENDORS?

Our website is the best place for market and stallholder information and applications – www.howickvillage.co.nz/ about-howick-markets/

Q: WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE MARKET IN AUCKLAND?

Well, we love our fellow Howick market Classy Crafts held once a month across the road at the Picton Centre. It is brilliant when both markets are running, and the Howick Village Shops are buzzing.

Q: ANY SPECIAL, AHA MOMENT AT THE

“We are not just a market we are very much the social gathering place for people to connect, share and be part of the community.”

HOWICK VILLAGE MARKET?

The Saturday in the middle of last summer’s Cyclone Gabrielle, it was drizzly but calm. It was safe to go ahead with the market so although a lot of stalls had to pull out due to flooding on their own properties, we went ahead with the market. It was that day we saw the customers still arrive because it was an opportunity to see their friends and neighbours.

We were a community square where people came to meet, get their supplies, catch up and decompress about what had just happened in Howick and around NZ. It made me realise we are not just a market we are very much the social gathering place for people to connect, share and be part of the community.

Q: WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR ROLE?

Getting to interact with amazing creative people whether it’s through food, craft, or music.

Once you get past the blurryeyed 5am start, its dealing with those inspiring, creative people that make up the market and the wonderful community that supports them.

MASTER, EDITOR

FARIDA

‘I WANTED TO CHANGE THE NARRATIVE’

16 years ago Christina Teikamata decided to step out of an abusive marriage and helped form a support group for single parents undergoing a similar journey. Little did she realise then that it would give her a huge sense of purpose and help with her healing process.

Once Christina came to terms with the initial shock and shame of her dreams of a perfect marriage being shattered, the single mother-of-four told herself that instead of sinking into a cesspool of negativity and selfpity she must get a grip and put her energy into a greater cause.

The full-time social worker with a degree in Psychology and Counselling says, “Many single mothers feel like they were stigmatised and judged. I wanted to change the narrative. My mission was to help people feel supported, grow, and show them that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I wanted them to be overcomers, build new friendships and make meaningful connections in a safe

environment.”

On how the volunteer support group came to be, she reminisces, “In those days I felt very isolated. Life was hard. It’s easy to suffer from depression as you are ashamed to tell your family and friends about it. You want your problems to go away. A small group of single mothers were supported by Life Church to start a community support group for single mothers and children.

“Gradually, I reached out to a few single mums I knew. I’d invite them over for a coffee meet. We would ring each other regularly and go for walks together.

“Initially we were just the six of us, and years later we are all best friends,” she says with pride.

“Our children grew up together. When our group expanded to 30 women and children, we could

no longer accommodate them in our house. Now we have 40 families in east Auckland with 58 children who attend regularly. We currently have chapters in five different locations including the North Shore, South Auckland, Henderson, Central Auckland and Pakuranga.

“Giving back has helped me overcome my own situation,” reflects Christina.

“Refresh is a safe space to share, relax and have chats with plenty of laughs.”

The group meets at the Anchorage Community House monthly on a Saturday from 2-4pm for afternoon tea and luckily for the mums, there is childcare available. One event the members look forward to is the annual Pamper Day where they are treated to facials, manicures,

“Initially we were just the six of us, and years later we are all best friends.”

haircuts, makeup, and a relaxing massage, topped with delicious catering.

All events and groups are supported by funding and Life Church volunteers. Members are treated to free, preloved clothing, shoes, and toys. Other activities include a Boat Day for families to experience a fun day out on boats learning new skills and water confidence. They are taught kayaking, paddle boarding and the fine art of catching a fish!”

Food boxes and Christmas gifts are provided for the families by Life Church and All Saints Church Howick. Life Church also organises working bees who help out with the families gardening jobs.

> For more information contact Kris at Refresh@ lifecommunity.org.nz

MAKING THE TRANSITION

KITCHENS WITH DISTINCTION

If you are often in and outdoors, you may benefit from the latest in Transitions® Light Intelligent Lenses™ says Kristine Jensen from Eyes of Howick. HOME OF BEAUTIFUL

Call us now to start creating your dream kitchen!

09 533 7183

249 Moore St, Howick www.labellakitchens.co.nz

info@labellakitchens.co.nz

environments. Providing the best blue light filter with just a hint of tint indoors while reducing blue light exposure to up to 90% when outdoors. While not polarised behind a windscreen, these photochromic lenses will darken in the car providing extra visual comfort while driving and when outdoors darkening to category 3 UV protection along with polarisation to reduce reflected glare. Available in Grey, Brown and Graphite Green, Transitions®

POLO’S BEST ON DISPLAY

Held after a hiatus of three years, the 2024 New Zealand Polo Open hosted at the Auckland Polo Club, Clevedon, certainly lived up to the exciting buzz of being a fabulous sporting spectacle for die-hard polo fans as well as those looking for some action on and off the polo field.

While some of the best international players from six polo teams battled it out on the field, the sidelines were packed with plenty to do. From the crowd favourite, Horse vs Horsepower, the annual race between a polo pony and a Range Rover to Fashion at the Polo where the Best Dressed Lady, Best Dressed Gentleman and the Best Accessory got some wild cheering — it was the perfect social and sporting event of summer. Even the weather gods seemed impressed!

TOP TIPS-HOME SELLER’S GUIDE

The 47th NZ Polo Open final was a very close game between team Ecogas and Team Brinks, with Brinks taking the nation’s top polo title amidst much celebration.

The Champion pony was Lola owned by Ash Reader, ridden by James Harper.

The winner of the Best Retrained Thoroughbred Award went to Shooter owned by Thomas Hunt and ridden by visiting Argentinian player Paco O’Dwyer.

The most valuable player of the match was Bruce Fraser of Ecogas.

A special win for Lucy Ainsley, executive director of NZ Polo Open was having U.S. Polo Assn., onboard as a new partner this year. “To be recognised internationally by global polo partners is an exciting step for NZ Polo Open. The growth and opportunity this can bring to the event and the sport of polo in New Zealand is tremendous,” she said.

One of the most experienced local industry professionals, ANGELA RUDLING is a familiar face from Bayleys Howick.

Here are a few of my top tips, which have been tried and tested over the past 20 plus years.

> Make sure you invest the time prior to selling with your chosen agent, discussing presentation, home staging, the necessity of a floor plan and preparing your home for photos and a video.

> Remember that first impressions always count. Ensure outdoor areas are inviting. Repainting the front door or adding flowering shrubs can make all the difference.

> Consider if an interior décor change will add value. Walls retouched in a lighter shade will make it appear more spacious and try not to sell an empty home - it feels unloved.

> Decluttering and de-personalising, i.e. removing a multitude of family photos or excess furniture items, means buyers can imagine

themselves living there more easily.

> A well-presented clean and tidy home will convey a great first impression. Deep cleaning now makes it much easier to do a quick clean or tidy before viewings. Adding a vase of flowers or bowl of fresh fruit regularly to complete the look. Sometimes the smallest gestures have the biggest impact.

> Remember houses sell 365 days a year. Your agent can recommend ways to show off your home’s seasonal amenities and best features.

> Don’t be tempted to do it alone – there is no price on what an experienced agent can do to achieve the best return on your property.

Please feel free to call

Angela Rudling Ph 09 215 3002 or 0274 770 176 or email: angela.rudling@bayleys.co.nz for free advice on selling your home.

New Zealand investors have had a love affair with owning and investing in property for many years and there are whole industries that have evolved around property investing. However, in today’s increasing interest rate environment and regulatory climate, some landlords may question if this is the best investment strategy for them, writes HEATHER KENTSLEY, investment manager Southern Cross Partners.

By July 2024 every rental home is required to comply with the new Healthy Homes minimum standards which became mandatory on 1 July 2019. Landlords are obligated to keep records that can indicate compliance with any healthy home standards that apply (or will apply) during the tenancy.

WHAT COULD THIS MEAN FOR LANDLORDS? EXTRA EXPENSES AND HASSLES!

The steady rise of interest rates over the last 24 months are starting to affect property investors who are unable to justify the massive increase in rents to compensate for the extra mortgage payments that a higher interest rate requires. This has some landlords reassessing their involvement with property as an investment vehicle.

There could also be financial pressure on residential landlords to make sure their houses are compliant with the new Healthy Homes minimum standards.

Property backed peer-to-peer investing has risen in popularity since Southern Cross Partners gained its license from the FMA in December 2016.

There are property investors that still want to be involved with property but don’t want to have the hassles of tenants, maintenance, management fees or the plumbing emergency at 2am in the morning.

Many of our investors have had investment portfolios but are now at a stage in their life where they are thinking more about travel and lifestyle rather than maintenance and tenants.

Owning investment property can have possible capital gains but could also result in capital losses. Property backed peerto-peer investments, whilst not enjoying capital gains, could provide a monthly income which most investors tell us is important to them.

Every investment has

Make the most of it.

risks, and peer to peer is no different so it’s important to understand the risks associated

PROPERTY BACKED PEERT0-PEER INVESTMENTS

Many of our investors have had investment portfolios but are now at a stage in their life where they are thinking more about travel and lifestyle rather than maintenance and tenants.

with any investment product. To find out more visit www. southerncrosspartners.co.nz.

Get monthly returns from 7.50% p.a.* that make the most of your savings, so you can make the most out of life.

Sometimes it can be hard to balance the need to save for your future, as well as enjoying the adventures that pop up every day. Our unique investment model offers you the flexibility to do both.

At Southern Cross Partners, we offer mortgage secured loans that allow investors to pick and choose their level of involvement. With current returns from 7.50% p.a.* paid out monthly. Talk to us today about a new, flexible way to invest, minimum investment $10,000.00.^

To find out more, visit us online at southerncrosspartners.co.nz

CELEBRATING CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

Like always, the grand celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year hosted by the Federation of NZ Chinese Association had a great turnout.

From politicians to business leaders, association heads, delegates from the Chinese embassy, representatives from St John, Howick Local Board members, they were all there to celebrate the Year of the Dragon at the Grand Park Chinese Seafood Restaurant, Alexander Park.

The entertaining evening

was testimony to the long-standing relationship that Steven Wong, the philanthropic chairman of the Federation of NZ Chinese Association has with community leaders. Act Party leader, David Seymour acknowledged the wonderful connection between China and New Zealand and said that the event was a true a celebration as the countries add value to each other and are stronger together.

WHAT’S ON EVENTS

PANMURE BASIN FUN DAY

Sunday, March 3, 11am-3pm, Panmure

It’s a free family fun day, the Panmure Basin Fun Day is back with free activities for all ages and entertainment around the basin. Make sure to catch the skate competition action, face-painting, food trucks and more! There will also be chances to win prizes sponsored by the Panmure Business Association.

PIGEON MOUNTAIN GARDEN CLUB

Monthly meeting on Monday, March 4, 7.30pm at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Vincent St, Howick. We are a friendly gardening club with a mutual appreciation of gardening, working with the environment and the sharing of plants and information, guest speaker, plant sales and raffle. Email pigeonmountaingc@gmail.com for more information.

BADMINTON

Howick Badminton meets 9.30am to noon, Mondays and Wednesdays, at the Howick Leisure Centre, Pakuranga Highway. New members and visitors all welcome. For details contact Barbara 021 209 7613. Supported by NZ Community Trust.

RAINBOW WORKSHOP

Whaea Taini Drummond welcomes you to her Rainbow Workshop at Howick Library working with numerology and colours. Registrations required, please contact Howick Library. All Welcome. Free.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Zonta Club of East Auckland is beginning another year with a celebration of International Women’s Day and we are delighted to have as our guest and recipient of our International Rose Day Award, Dr Joyce Cowan. Joyce has spent her professional life as a midwife and a leader in understanding preeclampsia and other notable conditions relating to pregnancy and birth. Do join us to hear of Joyce’s experiences in her work with women and babies. Howick Club, Botany Road, Tuesday, March 5, 6pm for dinner. For details email eastauckland@zonta.org.nz.

CLEVEDON ART TRAIL –OPEN STUDIO WEEKEND

March 15-17, locations vary, Clevedon

Beginning with an exhibition (at Hallertau, March 15, 5-8pm), this Open Studio event provides the perfect opportunity to be inspired by local creatives (including at the spectacular Riverhaven Artland) as they showcase their work. For further information visit www.clevedonarttrail.co.nz.

U3A PAKURANGA

Stephen Hoadley is our guest speaker for the U3A Pakuranga meeting on March 4, at St Andrew’s Church Centre, Vincent Street, Howick at 1.45pm. Visitors welcome. For info call Robert 021 1490069.

GARAGE SALE

The next barn sale at Trinity Church, 474 Pakuranga Rd, is on Saturday, March 2 beginning at 8 am. Specials this month are half-price cushions and pillows, all CDs 10c each, all DVDs 20c each and selected summer clothes and shoes at $1 per item. We also have a large selection of cheap good quality children’s clothes, especially for pre-schoolers.

HISTORY OF CONFLICT

Conflict in the Middle East from the Crusades until now. On Monday, March 11 at 9.20am, Howick U3A will meet in the Bowling Club in Selwyn Rd, Howick. Dr Lindsay Diggleman, a senior lecturer at Auckland University, will speak about the history of conflict in the Middle East from the Middle Ages and particularly the Anglo-Saxon periods of the 11th and 12th Centuries. You are welcome to come as a visitor to check us out and see if it is “your thing” or join. Phone Jan 027 220 3777 for more information.

GENEALOGISTS

The next meeting of the Howick Branch of the NZSG will be on Saturday, March 9 at St Andrews Church Centre, Vincent Street, Howick at 1.30 pm. Branch members will be speaking about lesser known and new computer-based tools to help with your family history research. Door charge $5. Visitors welcome. Further information phone 576-4715 or 576-5400.

Raising a glass to the Year of the Dragon.

PUZZLE TIME

Quick Puzzle NO. 8148

ACROSS

6. Extraordinary (11)

7. Face (4)

8. Wobbly (8)

9. Middle (6)

10. Bidding (6)

12. Bird (6)

15. Creature (6)

17. Records (8)

19. Pile (4)

20. Oversee (11)

Cryptic Puzzle NO. 8148

ACROSS

6. On the telephone, say what you want is to restore calm (4,2,5).

7. Barks back “Spring rain!” (4).

8. Try to take action about that’s most unpopular (8).

9. The Italian alone changed key in it (6).

10. Stuff away the meal (6).

12. Cooks for bars (6).

15. The likelihood that the cane has been broken by a child (6).

17. One pill’s fallen into a jar in the kitchen cupboard (8).

19. I flew from abroad (4).

20. A child, a man and a horse: that’s all (5,6).

DOWN

1. Should the whole lot puff out, there’s nothing wrong (4,4).

2. The boss and I love the workroom (6).

3. He’ll expect a tip and a drink (6).

4. I name the date (4).

5. Tells one people are waiting to get them (6).

6. A range in many stores (5).

11. A tin with fruit outside and it’s very expensive (8).

13. Tell you about the former (6).

14. The pictures may be seized by the police (6).

15. It’s a mercy it’s become so nice and thick (6).

16. Sing and talk about the north (5).

18. Places for the TV and the radio (4).

FILL

IN

THE

BLANKS

DOWN

1. Artist (8)

2. Tree (6)

3. Failure (6)

4. Stake (4)

5. Aircraft (6)

6. Banish (5)

11. Scare (8)

13. Over (6)

14. Inn (6)

15. Agreement (6)

16. Present (5)

18. Expectation (4)

SUDOKU

WIN!

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

One entry per email address / person; entries close March 6, 2024. Winners notified by phone or email.

LUNCHBOX READY

puzzle no. 128

BOBBY PAPAROA

3 LETTERS Nod Oak Ram Row

Getting back to school is a hectic process with kids trying to settle in their new classrooms and making new friends. Wile parents are busy trying to decide on snacks/lunch to pack in, there are some things in life that are sorted by GLAD® to help make the back-toschool season as simple and stress-free as possible!

With a range of GLAD’s food storage solutions— whether it’s sandwiches, fruits, or home baking, it helps make lunchbox prep a breeze and keep food fresh for longer.

Enter, to win one of two prize packs of GLAD® products to help you get lunchbox ready. Each prize pack contains: 2 x GLAD Cling Wrap 30m roll, 2 x GLAD Snaplock Plastic Bags Sandwich 25 pack and 2 x GLAD Bake Paper 25m.

4 LETTERS Cake Logo Okra Stem

6 LETTERS Buffet Season SPider Tea Bag

7 LETTERS Glasses Grinder Origami Soybean

THE SUN, THE MOON AND THE TIDES

WEDNESDAY 28 FEBRUARY

Sun: Rise 7.03am Set 8.01pm

Moon: Rise 9.39pm Set 10.03am High Tide: 10.42am 11.04pm

THURSDAY 29 FEBRUARY

Sun: Rise 7.04am Set 8.00pm

Moon: Rise 11.03pm Set 11.02am High Tide: 11.17am 11.40pm

FRIDAY 1 MARCH

Sun: Rise 7.05am Set 7.58pm

Moon: Rise 11.30pm Set 12.02pm High Tide: 11.54am

SATURDAY 2 MARCH

Sun: Rise 7.06am Set 7.57pm

Moon: Rise 11.02pm Set 1.05pm

High Tide: 12.18am 12.33pm

Honest Skincare certified organic Cold-Pressed Castor Oil is perfectly pure for your family and contains no solvents, hexane or sulphur. Use topically to heal skin conditions, improve lymphatic flow and alleviate tummy and hormonal issues.

Purchase online at honestskincare.co.nz or pop into our Ellerslie shop between 8 and 4 weekdays.

10 LETTERS Ambassador Kingfisher Exhibition Microfiber

SUNDAY 3 MARCH

Sun: Rise 7.07am Set 7.55pm

Moon: Rise 11.41pm Set 2.09pm

High Tide: 1.00am 1.16pm

MONDAY 4 MARCH

Sun: Rise 7.08am Set 7.54pm

Moon: Set 3.14pm

High Tide: 1.48am 2.04pm

TUESDAY 5 MARCH

Sun: Rise 7.0am Set 7.53pm

Moon: Rise 12.30am Set 4.17pm

Tide: 2.46am 2.59pm

DIANNE BAKER