Times/EastLife - 30 August 2023

IMSB MEMBER, MATUA JAMES BROWN DIES

over many years,” Brown said.

„ By STAFF and LAURA KVIGSTAD, Auckland Council reporter Funded by New Zealand on Air

Independent Māori Statutory Board member James Brown was remembered for his contributions to Tāmaki Makaurau at Auckland Council.

At the Governing Body on August 24, Mayor Wayne Brown said James Brown died suddenly two days earlier and asked for a minute of silence to acknowledge the passing. “James made a huge contribution to Tāmaki Makaurau

Acting chief executive Phil Wilson said James Brown had a long association with council.

“James was a very important leader for local iwi Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki – always a staunch proponent for progress of Ngāi Tai people, providing leadership in all sorts of dimensions,” Wilson said.

“I would say he was a far better person to have as a friend and a partner than an adversary.

“He was forthright in his view and that was a good thing. He fought his corner and provided really important leadership.”

Wilson recounted Brown’s work around the development of

the Umupuia Marae and became choked up.

“Moe mai ra e te rangatira, rest in peace.”

Brown, a long-time chairman of Ngai Tai ki Tamaki based at Umupuia Marae in Maraetai, was celebrated with a tangihanga at Umupuia Marae on Saturday.

The iwi said in a post: “Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki is deeply saddened to share the news of the sudden passing of James Brown, who for so long has been a Pou for our iwi and whose many achievements have been fundamental to establishing where we are today as an iwi.

“It is difficult to express the loss at this moment.”

General Election time

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

With less than two months until this year’s general election, Kiwis are being urged to enrol to vote so they can make their voices heard.

The Electoral Commission recently mailed out personalised enrolment update packs to 3.4 million enrolled voters.

Chief electoral officer Karl Le Quesne says it’s important people check their packs to make sure everything’s correct in the lead-up to the election on October 14.

“We need everyone to check their details are up to date and make any changes needed.

“Make sure you’re enrolled at the address where you live by September 10.

“That way, you’ll get an EasyVote card and informa-

tion about the election ahead of time, which will make voting easier.

“If you don’t receive a pack by mid-August it means you’re either not enrolled, or your details are incorrect.

“If that’s the case, the easiest way to enrol or check your details is online at www.vote. nz.”

East Auckland encompasses two general electorates, Botany and Pakuranga. Both are represented by National Party MPs, being party leader Christopher Luxon and Simeon Brown respectively.

Luxon won Botany in 2020 with a majority of 3,999 candidate votes over Labour’s Naisi

Chen, who is not contesting the seat this year but remains on Labour’s List.

Labour won the party vote in Botany in 2020, with 47.3 per cent to National’s 36.9 per cent.

Standing in Botany against Luxon this year are Labour Party candidate Kharag Singh, the ACT Party’s Bo Burns, and the New Conservatives’ Dieuwe de Boer.

Brown won Pakuranga’s candidate vote with a majority of 10,050 votes over Labour’s Nerissa Henry, who’s contesting the electorate again this year.

h Turn to page 3

James Brown was a long-time chairman of Ngai Tai ki Tamaki based at Umupuia Marae in Maraetai. Photo supplied

Voting in this year’s general election is from October 2-14, with polling day on October 14. Times photo Wayne Martin

‘There’s a desire for real change’

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

D

r Parmjeet Parmar has a massive advantage over other candidates at this year’s general election.The businesswoman and scientist can draw on the experience of having previously served in Parliament, as a List MP for the National Party from 2014 to 2020.

She’s since changed her allegiance to the ACT Party and is standing this year in the Pakuranga electorate.

Parmar, who’s lived in Pakuranga for more than two decades, is ninth on the party list so it’s very likely she’s set to become an MP again when the election is held on October 14.

She runs her family business and has previously served as a Families Commissioner and chaired a non-governmental organisation that supports the victims of domestic violence.

Parmar has a PhD in biological sciences from the University of Auckland and is on the board of Totara Hospice.

When she was announced as an ACT candidate, party leader David Seymour described her as a “woman of principles, a scholar and a successful businesswoman”.

“She will be a great addition to

Former National Party MP Parmjeet Parmar is standing for the ACT Party in the Pakuranga electorate at this year’s general election.

the ACT team and I look forward to working with her to make New Zealand a better place.”

Parmar says she was attracted to stand for ACT because it’s “the only party that takes an evidence-based approach to policy making”.

Since she began campaigning she’s heard a strong desire from the public for a change in Government.

“When they say that what they mean is they want real change, not just a change of Government.

“That is what ACT is about and that’s why the support for ACT is growing the way it is.”

She says Kiwis are concerned about three main political issues, being the cost of living, crime, and co-governance.

“When I talk to people I hear they’re struggling with their mortgage rates, and the cost of food has increased. There are a lot of people struggling. It’s not just low-income people.

“It’s even middle- to high-income families who are suffering from the cost of living.”

Parmar says ACT wants a flatter tax system that would see workers pay 17.5 per cent tax on income up to $70,000 a year and then 28 per cent tax on income above $70,000.

“That means people will have more money in their pocket. If someone is on $70,000, they’ll have $50 more per week.”

On law and order, she says the Labour Government has set a target of reducing the prison population by 30 per cent.

That’s resulted in “more people who should be behind bars being out on the streets”.

ACT would change the law so it would be an aggravating factor at sentencing if a victim was attacked in their workplace, and it will also tackle youth crime, Parmar says.

National OpenDay 16Sept

“For repeat offenders aged 11 to 14 there will be ankle bracelets so they can be easily tracked.

“For the older ones, we’ll have a 200-bed detention centre.

“And we’ll reverse the youth justice age to 17, which was increased by National and hasn’t worked, so they’ll be going to adult court rather than youth

h Continued from page 2

Labour won the party vote in Pakuranga in 2020, with 41.8 per cent to National’s 38.3 per cent.

Standing in the Pakuranga electorate against Brown are Labour’s Nerissa Henry, ACT Party candidate Parmjeet Parmar, and Rock The Vote NZ candidate John Alcock.

The Times asked several minor political parties if they were standing candidates in local electorates.

DemocracyNZ said it didn’t have a candidate in east Auckland while Freedoms New Zealand and Vision New Zealand did not respond.

Le Quesne says voting takes place from October 2-14 and

court.”

On the issue of co-governance, Parmar says Kiwis “really want to see everyone is treated equally and there are no race-based agendas in our public system.”

“These are the kinds of changes people really want to see and they’ll happen if they party vote ACT.”

it gives Kiwis the chance to choose the people and parties that will represent them in Parliament. “This is a big decision and it’s important you’re enrolled to vote so your voice can be heard. The Electoral Commission is here to help you get all the information you need.”

He says enrolling to vote takes about five minutes and can be done online at vote.nz using a New Zealand driver licence, New Zealand passport or RealMe verified identity. People can also enrol or update their details by filling in an enrolment form online at vote.nz, by phoning 0800 36 76 56, or by texting your name and address to 3676.

Times photo Wayne Martin

Votes and seats

Big win for Faulkner builders

Celebrated Howick building firm Faulkner Construction has picked up what it considers its most significant win in the annual Registered Master Builders House of the Year regional winners awards.

Faulkner Construction, which regularly clinches wins in major categories in the competition, has won the Supreme Renovation of the Year award [Auckland / Northland / Coromandel region] for its build in Freemans Bay. The home was also awarded the Pink Batts Craftsmanship Award, Renovation Over $1.5 million category and a gold award.

The Registered Master Builders House of the Year competition recognises the very best homes, builders and craftspeople across New Zealand. This year the regional competition had almost 300 entries across nine regions.

Judges said, “Renovating a Victorian villa is no easy task – and walking past this home now, the classical frontage gives

little indication of the incredible work undertaken at the back of the house. This speaks to the excellence of the construction team, who worked with the owner to breathe new life into this home which seamlessly moves between the past and the present.

“It can be difficult to find the right words to describe something so impressive – to do it justice. For this renovation, the planning and skills on display are as good as it gets.

In relation to the Pink Batts Craftsmanship Award, judges said, “This architecturally-designed renovation called for a range of different skillsets, as adding a modern extension to an old heritage home is no easy feat. The construction team worked alongside the architect and met any challenges head on.

“While it was no easy job, the results are top notch. This is clear in the detailing and finishes, all of which were completed with real finesse. The craftmanship on dis-

play is something the construction team should be immensely proud of.”

With respect to the Renovation over $1.5 million category, judges continued, “From lifting the existing weatherboard home to add a garage, to constructing a modern two-storey extension at the rear, this renovation has done it all.

“To get it over the line, the project team overcame a host of challenges, including limited access, building a new

“inground swimming pool, and traffic management issues that arose while building. Despite these challenges, the Faulkner Construction team have produced a remarkable renovated home.”

There was another big winner from the east Auckland area – Master Craft Construction, based out of Shelly Park, won the New Home $1.5m – $2m category [Auckland / Northland / Coromandel region], and a gold award, for a home in Buckland Beach.

Judges said, “Spread out over two floors, with the main spaces positioned to capitalise on the view, this original and unique home is the product of a fruitful collaboration between the construction team, designer, and owner.

“For the exterior, timber and weathered steel are used to impressive effect, nicely complementing precast concrete panels. From the downstairs living room to the upstairs bathrooms, the

offsetting of different textures, colours, and tones is featured throughout. This is an exceptional build.”

Meanwhile, other companies connected to the area picked up awards too. They include Catalyst Construction from Beachlands for a build in Maraetai [gold], Emphasis Homes from Beachlands for a build in Whitford [gold], G Donaldson Builders from Beachlands for builds in Beachlands and Maraetai [2 golds], Landmark Homes Auckland for a building Clevedon [gold], Taylor Construction 2016 from Sunnyhills for a build in Whitford [gold], Coppins Construction from Onehunga for a build in Maraetai [silver], Taylor Construction 2016 from Sunnyhills for a build in Sunnyhills [silver], Best Construction from Howick for a build in Mellons Bay [bronze] and JS Future Homes from Flat Bush for a build in Beachlands [bronze].

Anger over removal of large trees

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

One part of east Auckland is looking decidedly less green after numerous tall trees were chopped down to make way for the Eastern Busway public transport project.

Photos taken by the Times show rows of low, thick tree stumps sitting outside Pakuranga Plaza, adjacent to Pakuranga Road and Ti Rakau Drive, with at least 12 visible in one stretch.

The trees’ recent removal has sparked a strong reaction on local community Facebook pages.

One post on the subject drew more than 60 comments, with one person saying it’s “disgusting”.

“There was a huge number of birds who nested in those trees. It’s bad enough with the destruction of habitat along Ti Rakau Drive for the ghost buses.”

Another person said they almost cried when they saw the trees being cut down.

“There is something seriously wrong with our Government and most of our society. We should be protesting for such disgusting

acts like that.”

One person tagged Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown on the post and asked if the trees’ removal was justified.

Brown replied: “Trees are being removed to make way for the Eastern Busway and Reeves Road Flyover.

“There will be replacement vegetation when they do the Eastern Busway, just like they did along the bit between Panmure and Pakuranga.”

AT spokesperson Natalie Polley says between August 29 and December, the Eastern Busway project team will be upgrading the stormwater network to help reduce flood risk on a section of Pakuranga Road outside Pakuranga Plaza.

“The work needs to take place before construction starts on the Reeves Road Flyover.

“There will be road layout changes and sign-posted temporary entrances to some Pakuranga businesses.

“Two traffic lanes will be open in each direction, with a third lane opening in the morning peak for vehicles heading towards Panmure.

“In the afternoon, the third lane will be open for vehicles heading towards Howick.”

Polley says that will ensure the current peak capacity of Pakuranga Rd is maintained with three lanes available during peak traffic periods.

“When the Eastern Busway from Pakuranga to Botany is completed, there will be new planting and landscaping to replace vegetation and trees that have been removed for the project to be built.”

Howick Local Board chairperson Damian Light says while it’s “unfortunate” to see the trees get cut down, the removal of some trees in the short-term is necessary to enable progress on the busway.

“We know transport is a significant challenge for locals and the Eastern Busway will provide more frequent, reliable, and quicker transport choices for east Auckland.

“The Eastern Busway project team has advised us they will be planting natives to replace trees that are removed during construction.

“The designs we’ve been pro-

vided show an increased number of trees and planting as part of the landscaping along the route.

“We’ve seen their commitment to sustainability through the deconstruction and removal of houses along Ti Rakau Drive, which provided recycling and reuse opportunities.”

Light says the local board is committed to improving the number of trees in the community though its Howick Urban Ngahere Action Plan.

Its goal is to increase tree canopy cover from an estimated 15 per cent to a “much healthier” 30 per cent, he says.

Faulkner Construction has won the Supreme Renovation of the Year award [Auckland / Northland / Coromandel region] for its build in Freemans Bay.

Photos supplied

It can be difficult to find the right words to describe something so impressive – to do it justice.”

– JUDGES

Numerous large trees have been cut down around Pakuranga Plaza as part of work for the Eastern Busway project. Times photo Wayne Martin

Many more Kiwis will receive essential cancer treatments if National forms a government in October.

Almost every New Zealander will have some experience with cancer in their lifetime – either personally or through a friend, colleague or loved one. Each year, more than 25,000 Kiwis are diagnosed with cancer and more than 10,000 tragically lose their lives.

But despite the hard work and dedication of New Zealand’s trusted healthcare professionals, cancer survival rates here lag behind Australia.

New Zealanders have a 15 per cent greater mortality from cancer than Australians, a shocking statistic that must be addressed.

There are 13 cancer treatments that have been identified by the National Cancer Control Agency as lifesaving or life prolonging, but they are not currently funded in New Zealand but are in Australia.

The treatments are for lung, bowel, kidney, melanoma, and head and neck cancers that provide significant clinical

benefits.

Last week I was proud to announce that a National Government I lead will pay for these 13 treatments to be available in New Zealand.

New Zealanders will not have to leave the country, mortgage their home, or start a funding page to be able to afford potentially lifesaving and life-extending treatments that are proven to work and are readily available across the Tasman.

National will pay for this by ringfencing $280 million in funding to Pharmac over four years and will do this by targeting the free prescription policy Labour recklessly gave all New Zealanders, regardless of whether they could afford to pay it themselves.

National believes some people can afford to pay a $5 prescription charge and would be happy if that funding went into cancer therapies instead.

Superannuitants and those on low incomes will receive free prescriptions. For everyone else, the total amount any family will pay for prescriptions in a year will be capped at $100.

The cancer treatments will be available to all patients with clinical need, as assessed by their doctors.

For six years, Labour has failed Kiwis on health. It has conducted a costly and bureaucratic restructure of the health sector, while every single health metric has gone backwards.

Lifting New Zealand’s game on cancer will be a priority for the next National Government. We have already announced our plan to increase the free breast cancer screening age from 69 to 74 years old, which will save around 65 lives each year.

National will focus relentlessly on delivering better healthcare for all New Zealanders. We will increase health funding every year, and shift resources from the back-office to the frontline.

Christopher Luxon is National Party Leader and MP for Botany

Exploring ‘evolving human perception’

An east Auckland art gallery is staging six new exhibitions featuring work by a diverse range of local and overseas creatives.

Te Tuhi communications and programme co-ordinator Alena Kavka says they opened at the Pakuranga gallery on August 19.

The first, coming to Te Tuhi from an international exhibition in Venice, Italy, is Logic Paralyzes the Heart. It’s a multi-media installation by acclaimed American artist and filmmaker Lynn Hershman Leeson.

It comprises wallpaper featuring the faces of “missing people” that have been generated by artificial intelligence with a video narrated by a 61-year-old “cyborg” reflecting on her life. “In an adjacent gallery, we will be showing REM Sleep, a three-channel video by Taiwanese artist Chia-En Jao,” Kavka says.

Also, New Zealand Pakeha-

‘Staying Stronger for Longer’

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

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

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

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

What: Free Virtual Village East seminar

When: 10.30am to 12.30pm, Wednesday 20th

September 2023

Where: Te Tuhi, 13 Reeves Road, Pakuranga

JH18288

Tongan artists Benjamin Work and Harrison Freeth are presenting their collaborative work, entitled Bodies of Water, Made of Land. It references the interconnections between body and land through the concepts of Va (relational space) and Ta (time). In the gallery’s speaker space, Christchurch artist Noel Meek and Chinese artist Yan Jun present their work Mirror Three Kavka says the gallery’s project wall welcomes New Zealand artist and designer Catherine Griffiths. Her large-scale painted work is based on a typographic set for 26 letters, 10 numbers and punctuation. Lastly, outside the gallery, on its billboards on Reeves Road, Wellington-based artist Sean Waugh will present peripheral vision, a site-specific work informed by his time spent working in the area around Te Tuhi.

Cost: Free for seniors and their families

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

– a free seminar for seniors A member

A network of friendship & support for seniors

facebook.com/virtualvillageeast

www.virtual-village-east.org.nz

MP for Botany

Christopher Luxon

Work by artist Yan Jun is among those on public display at the Te Tuhi gallery in Pakuranga.

Photo supplied Yan Jun

UNBRIDLED HYPOCRISY

No better example than [Prime Minster Chris] Hipkins’ partnership with [American multinational investment company] BlackRock who holds $85 billion in shares in coal companies and, in spite of their promise to sell most of its shares, hasn’t, and continues to invest in companies developing large scale coal, oil and gas expansion.

In fact, the biggest fossil fuel companies are currently creating a fossil fuel carbon bomb that guarantees, if it hasn’t already, the internationally-agreed temperatures are way past set limits.

On this issue, the head kid coming from Petone High on climate change alone is proving to be way out of his depth.

Gary Hollis Mellons Bay

SEEKING POSITIVE REDIRECTION

When I speak to new acquaintances, they voice a very similar cry, ‘What is happening to our world?’

The traditional world of our past decades is no more. The foundations of hope, trust, hon-

esty, truth and justice are washing away with floods of woke distrust, lies and hypocrisy.

How did all this happen?

Gradually; yes, gradually.

When we remove the foundational strengths of our nation, the social edifice crumbles. There is nothing sound to hold on to.

Everything is tolerated from self-gratification to sexual exploitation to racial privilege to changing the definition of marriage, confusing the definition of a woman, following woke ideologies – it’s all up for grabs. It’s hell’s corridors! No rules, no guidance.

So replacing those foundational strengths becomes paramount or we lose what little remains.

Your vote is important because it determines who wins the next election.

Our party leaders in Wellington are uncommitted or unaware and part of our demise.

It is so important to seek the truth and avoid the spin and deception.

Many folk are now seeking this positive redirection for our country where hope, truth and justice, our traditional values, are rebuilt amidst the chaos.

Ian George Howick

AT WEIRDNESS AGAIN

The recent changes to lane marking at the eastern side of the Pakuranga Road/Ti Rakau intersection lights for east bound traffic from Panmure caused me considerable delay recently (but I’ll know for next time).

However, the change itself is clearly not sensible nor beneficial so is it not appropriate that Auckland Transport provide detailed technical information to explain this weird change to lane marking that previously worked well.

Ross Nielsen Half Moon Bay

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE TIMES

Just had to send you this note of congratulations on the fabulous new look of our favourite ‘old’ local paper.

When I first saw it (a few weeks ago) I thought Wow! I should have emailed you when it first came out – but better late than never.

The colour photos, the way it’s

set out, just makes you want to pick it up and read it .

All the information, comments by locals, and even the local advertisers are very interesting.

And one of the very best things is the information on where to pick up the paper. Week after week we were disappointed in not having a copy delivered to our mailbox so we just missed out.

Now a quick look in the pickup locations section and we know where to get your paper. Well done to the person who thought of this idea.

You know the old saying, “the best things in life are free”. Well, we can add the Howick and Pakuranga Times to that list.

Thanks very much to your team.

Sue Bentley Pakuranga

THANK YOU VERY MUCH

On August 14 I had a fall outside Countdown at the Hub in Botany.

I fell face down and the blood was flowing from my forehead.

I was overwhelmed by the people who rushed to help me. It was raining and a lady brought out a big umbrella to cover me and the lady who knelt on the

hard ground and lifted my head onto her lap.

There were ladies, I think they were Countdown staff, who also assisted me.

I wish to thank them all greatly and just show what a wonderful area we live in. One lady even took the shopping list from my wife and went in and got the goods and put them in our car.

I was taken to Middlemore, and another lady drove my wife home.

I am 96-years-old and live at Bruce McLaren Retirement Village.

Milton Everson Howick

NEWSBITES SINGLES SOCIAL GROUP

New Horizons Singles Social and Friendship Club for 50sup. If you’re looking to make new friends, we generate our own fun and entertainment. Walks, dining out, outings, movies, summer bbqs etc.

Please contact Rachel 021 02691679 or Mike 021 840141 or www.auckland-singles-social-club.org.nz.

Police bust large cannabis operation

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Police have recovered hundreds of cannabis plants during raids on several east Auckland properties.

Sergeant Brett Meale of Howick

Police says officers found a large number of cannabis plants and a “sizeable amount” of harvested cannabis plant material during the execution of a search warrant at a Meadowlands house on August 1.

The operation was in relation to the alleged cultivation and supply of cannabis.

“A large-scale cannabis cultivation was located,” Meale told the Times

“Four males aged between 29 and 44 years old were arrested and charged.

“As part of the ongoing investigation, police executed two further search warrants in Howick and Half Moon Bay on August 15. Two further sophisticated cannabis cultivations were found, and a further 270 cannabis plants located. Enquiries are under way to locate the properties’ tenants.”

Meale says the incident is a timely reminder for landlords and property managers to be on the lookout for evidence of such offending. “Especially when they’re conducting or attempting to conduct property inspections,” he says.

“Likewise, members of the public or neighbours can report any suspicious

activity they witness via the police’s 105 reporting line or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Meanwhile, Meale says on August 13 police located and arrested a 39-yearold male and a 32-year-old female in relation to a burglary carried out in Sunnyhills the week prior. “The male and female have been charged with burglary and remanded in custody to allow police to conduct further enquiries into Auckland-wide dishonesty and retail offending.”

More charges are likely, he says.

“Police want to acknowledge members of the public who noticed suspicious behaviour and took photographs of the offenders. Their actions undoubtedly assisted with these identifications and arrests.”

Howick Police sergeant Brett Meale is warning landlords and property managers to be on alert for criminal activity. Times photo Chris Harrowell

Howick College a part of exciting teachers’ initiative

„ By BEN PLUMMER

Howick College has joined a new initiative with a group of Auckland Schools, offering a new way to train to become a secondary school teacher with a scholarship and university fees paid.

The school-based teacher training programme works in partnership with the University of Waikato.

Trainees will spend one year completing course-

work with the University of Waikato while working onsite at Howick College, being mentored by experts in their subject area. They will be fully immersed in school life with a job offer at the end.

“As you can imagine we are very excited to be joining other schools across Auckland in this programme,” says Howick College associate principal Paul Bennett.

Bennett says like all schools, Howick College finds it challenging to recruit teachers.

“This programme is an excellent opportunity to recruit career changers from within our community to train and work at Howick College.

“It is a hands-on learning programme in which trainees are supported by one of our teacher coaches, while completing the academic qualification online,” he says. The programme is unique in that it is fees-free, provides trainees with $12,500 and they are offered immersive and practical training at Howick

College for the whole year.

“Our hope would be to recruit from the local community and retain any trainees as a teacher once they have graduated. In 2024 we are particularly interested in those wanting to train in PE/Health, technology and English,” Bennett says.

Those interested in finding out more about the programme, can contact Howick College deputy principal Emma Jones at emma.jones@ howick.school.nz.

30-year anniversary at The Prospect of Howick

The man, the icon, the legend Barry O’Shaughnessy has been at the helm of The Prospect of Howick for 30 years on September 3.

Starting as a chef in 1977

at The Prospect, Barry left and worked his way around the country for 20-odd years before returning to Howick to where it all began.

Capt. Peacocke’s Carvery, Fencibles Bar, Stables Bar, Bosuns Bar, GBS Bar and now The Good Home - quite a few changes over the last three decades and some

great stories and memories. Pop in and wish Barry your congratulations and share some of your stories. Maybe they haven’t heard them all yet.

The Good Home owner Barry O’Shaughnessy is a well-known character at the popular Howick bar.

Photo supplied

Howick College is part of school-based teacher training programme in partnership with the University of Waikato. Photo supplied

HPNC celebrates 60 years with diamond jubilee

 By BEN PLUMMER

The Howick Pakuranga

Netball Centre (HPNC) celebrated its 60th year anniversary last week with a special diamond jubilee event.

HPNC patroness and former president Joan Williams has been involved with netball in the Howick Pakuranga and Counties Manukau districts for more than 57 years and was delighted to attend the 60 year celebration.

“I had no idea when enrolling my daughter for netball in 1966 that three years later I would be recruited as secretary for seven years for the Howick Districts Basketball Association, later to

become the Howick Pakuranga Netball Association (Centre) followed by another five years as president from 1977-1982,” she says.

As far as memorable moments go, Williams says there have been many, from the acquisition of the courts complex and small pavilion at Lloyd Elsmore Park in 1975 to the first Howick Pakuranga representative player, Tracey Eyrl, who was selected for the NZ U21 team in 1981 and later played for the Silver Ferns in 1986.

“The growth of the HPNC, from small beginnings in 1963, driven by the many hours of voluntary work by administrators, coaches,

managers and umpires has been exceptional.

“It has always strived to offer quality playing opportunities for its members and provided avenues for development at all levels and is an asset to the community,” Williams says.

HPNC president Amanda Dyason says the event was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the sport within east Auckland’s netball community and reconnect with the many staff, players and volunteers who have contributed in so many ways.

“From 1963 to 2023, the centre has seen many changes both with facilities and the way we play our game,” she says.

The centre has a variety of netball offerings in the way of walking netball, boys’ netball, no limits, Future Ferns, player development programmes, representative programmes, summer league as well as its main league on a Saturday.

The past few years have been the most difficult for the HPNC in the wake of the Covid 19 pandemic and cost-of-living crisis as well as lack of funding meaning the club is facing hardship not seen in a very long time.

“We are not only challenged financially but are also lacking in volunteer time due to different priorities in people’s lives since Covid. This 60th celebration was

a timely reminder to us all, as we reminisce and share our experiences and memories at Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre, as to why netball and our facility is important,” Dyason says.

Festivities for the diamond jubilee kicked off on Friday, August 25 with current club members and alum coming together to celebrate the milestone.

“Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate our 60th Jubilee,” says Dyason.

“We are so grateful to all those who have given their time to our centre over the past 60 years we wouldn’t be able to do it without our amazing volunteers.”

LEFAU TO REPRESENT NZ U15 SEVENS IN FRANCE

 By BEN PLUMMER

A Year 10 Howick College student has the trip of a lifetime ahead as she is set to represent the New Zealand U15 Sevens side in a world-first tournament in France next month.

Uaina Lefau is one of few New Zealanders selected to represent the country at the 2023 Rugby Heritage Cup Tournament in France.

The New Zealand Under 15 sevens team was selected by the Condors NZ Rugby Club and contains young rugby players from across the country.

Her mum, Lima, says the family is incredibly proud of her selection.

“When we got the news that she had been selected we were all in tears. We are so blessed that she has such an amazing opportunity ahead,” she says.

Uaina played seven years of junior rugby at the Pakuranga

United Rugby Club. In 2021 she won the Nan Bell Memorial Trophy for the best player in all grades.

“When she first joined, she was the only girl in a team of boys, so I think that’s probably what has built up her confidence.

“Former coaches and other people that have been in her life have helped influence and mould her into the player that she is now,” Lima says.

Pakuranga Junior committee vice chairperson Dave Grant says Uaina is not only an exceptionally gifted sportswoman and future star of the game, but also an amazing young person.

“We are not surprised to learn of Uaina’s selection in this representative team, she is a fantastic young player.

“On behalf of the Pakuranga family, we send Uaina our best wishes for the upcoming tournament and her first time representing the country - we are sure

it won’t be the last,” says Grant. This is a strong first step towards Uaina’s dream to one day become a Black Fern.

“She looks up to a lot of female

role models in the Rugby Sevens circuit like Ruby Tui, Portia Woodman and her cousin even plays for Australia so she dreams about being like them,” Lima says.

Howick College director of sport Adelita Sotutu says Uaina’s selection is just the latest of successes in the Howick College rugby programme.

“Howick College has produced International 7s players Isla Norman-Bell and Alysia LefauFakaosilea, Blues players and Farah Palmer Cup players. We have had girls travel to Japan and America on 7s contracts,” Sotutu says.

Uaina was a member of the Howick College senior girls 7s team last year that competed at Condors and this year is in the senior rugby girls’ 10s team that will defend its title against James Cook High School on August 21.

“She is a talented young lady who has a massive future ahead

of her,” says Sotutu.

As for the trip ahead, Lima says the news hasn’t really hit her daughter yet but will quickly become a reality as she is set to embark on August 28.

The tournament will get underway on September 1 in Pontlevoy, France, a week before the 2023 Rugby World Cup. It will be the first school rugby world tournament in history.

It won’t just be about Rugby however, with two other components to the tournament to win the Rugby Heritage Cup.

“This tournament is centred around cultural mix and diversity. It will bring together girls and boys of different origins and include both sporting and cultural activities enabling a dialogue between the students from 20 nations,” says the event’s organiser.

Learn more about the tournament at pontlevoy2023.com/en/ the-tournament/

Howick College year 10 student Uaina Lefau has been selected in the NZ U15 Sevens side to travel to Frace next month. Photo supplied

Howick Sports Awards: Athlete of the Year finalists

 By BEN PLUMMER

After two months of nominations, the finalists for this year’s Howick Sports Awards have been named. There were 97 nominations representing 33 clubs or schools, making it the most nominations in the history of the awards.

Each finalist gets a free ticket to the awards. If you have been nominated, please let Michael Bongiovanni know by emailing gm@purc.co.nz.

Tickets to the event are $50, which includes dinner and a drink and can be purchased via the link https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2023/2023-howick-sports-awards/auckland/ pakuranga.

Note: The period of achievements to be considered for the nominees falls between April 1, 2022, and March 31 2023.

SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR:

Lili Tokaduadua (Netball)

Part of the prestigious Howick College Premier Netball side, Tokaduadua was selected for the New Zealand Secondary Schools (NZSS) in 2022 and 2023. She also trained with and had court time for the Northern Stars in the ANZ Premiership.

Her efforts have landed her a full ANZ Premiership contract with the Northern Stars for 2024.

Olivia Rooney (Triathlon)

Rooney won gold in the U19 category at the New Zealand Secondary School Triathlon Championship earlier this year. She also won gold at the NZSS Duathlon in August last year.

Rooney was named young sportswoman of the year in the Triathlon category at the 2022 College Sport Auckland awards.

Zoe Benson (Football)

A youngster with the Eastern Suburbs AFC, Benson was a member of the NZ team at the

2022 U17 Women’s Football World Cup.

Her efforts during the tournament led to her selection in the U-19 NZ Women’s Football team.

SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR:

Huw Davies (Softball)

A member of the Howick Softball

Premier Men, Huw Davies notched up 100 games this year.

He was named in the U23 New Zealand Major Sox team to compete at the WBSC U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup in April.

Sander Waterland (Football)

A goal-scoring machine for the Bucklands Beach AFC Premier men, Waterland won the Northern Region Football League (NRFL) Div2 Golden Boot award for the 2022 season with 18 goals.

Toby Batchelor (Athletics)

At the New Zealand Mountain Running Championships in August last year, Batchelor took home the silver medal in the senior men 8.6km distance.

He also featured in the ninestrong New Zealand team to compete at the inaugural World Mountain Running and Trail Championships in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Wendell Stanley (Boxing)

Revill’s Boxing Gym fighter

Wendell Stanley had tremendous success last year, racking up a number of accolades.

Stanley competed in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, coming away with a fifth overall placing in his 71kg division out of 21 boxers.

He also won gold medals at the Golden Gloves in June 2022 and Boxing New Zealand National Championships in October.

JUNIOR SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR (U19):

Ayaan Lambat (Cricket)

A young cricketing prodigy,

Lambat featured in the Howick Pakuranga Cricket Club’s (HPPC)

Premier Women that won Pearl Dawson T20 championship.

At 14-years-old Lambat featured in the Auckland District’s tournament for the Manukau U17 women’s side where she had an impressive few games, most notably taking six wickets for six runs against Waitemata.

Braxton Sorenson-McGee (Howick Hornets Rugby League)

At only 16-years-old, Braxton Sorenson-McGee is already a premier representative in both rugby league and union codes.

It is hard to comprehend her achievements in 2022, which include multiple MVP awards and representative honours. Two of her most notable achievements last season were being selected in the Fetu Samoa U16s Team and being named the NZ Rugby League U16 Player of the Year.

Danielle Asiata (Swimming)

Out of the Howick Pakuranga Swim Club (HPK), it’s hard to name an event that Asiata has not won a medal in.

At the NZ Short Course Champs in August 2022, Asiata claimed 5 individual age group titles and one open title.

Her consistent efforts led to her selection as one of 12 swimmers to race for NZ at the 2023 Youth Commonwealth Games.

Jessica Ready (Skateboarding)

Local skater Jessica Ready won the women’s section at the New Zealand X Air competition in August last year at the age of 12. Ready, a gymnast from the age of two, started skating in 2019.

Lili Tokaduadua (Netball) See Sportswoman of the Year category.

Olivia Lin (Gymnastics) Oliva Lin’s nomination comes

on the back of her efforts with Macleans College at the New Zealand Secondary Schools Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships in May last year.

Lin achieved 2nd overall [6th hoop, 1st ball, 1st clubs, 2nd ribbon].

Olivia Rooney (Triathlon) See Sportswoman of the Year category.

JUNIOR SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR (U19):

Antonie Smal (Athletics)

Pakuranga Athletic Club’s Antonie Smal was crowned national champion in the men’s U18 Javelin at the NZ Track and Field Championships in March this year.

This came after he achieved second place in the senior boys’ javelin event at the NZSS athletics champs in December.

Finn Wilson (Mountain Biking) Macleans College mountain biker Wilson narrowly missed out on winning the U20 National Hill Climb in the Cycling New Zealand Northern Tour. He finished just 0.87 seconds away from nabbing the national jersey. It was also his first year competing in this age group.

Ian Tauaika (Boxing)

Another fighter out of Revill’s Boxing Gym, Ian Tauaika won gold at the 2022 Boxing New Zealand National Championships in his 75kg Youth Male category. Tauaika was also selected for the Auckland Boxing team.

Jordan Jones (Golf)

A young golf prodigy following in the footsteps of Beachlands’ own Ryan Fox, Jordan Jones has racked up a raft of accolades.

Jones’ most notable efforts include winning the 2022 Auckland Golf Men’s Provincial Match Play Championship and captaining the winning Auckland team at the 2022 Junior

Golf Inter-Provincial Teams Championship. All this while still a student at Botany Downs Secondary College (BDSC).

Noah Retford (Athletics)

At the NZSS athletics championships in December, racing for Botany Downs Secondary College, Retford won silver in the junior boys’ 100-metre hurdles and bronze in the junior boys’ 300-metre hurdles.

He competed for the Pakuranga Athletic Club NZ Track and Field Championships in March and walked away as a national champion in the men’s U18 300m hurdles.

INTERNATIONALIST OF THE YEAR:

Patrick Holmes (Special Olympics Howick Pakuranga)

Local athlete Patrick Holmes was selected to represent New Zealand in several top-class powerlifting events.

Holmes’ most notable performance was at the 2022 Commonwealth Powerlifting competition, where he came away with one silver and three bronze medals.

He recorded two personal bests (PBs) and an equal PB in his events.

There were 97 nominations for this year’s Howick Sports Awards including Lili Tokaduadua [right]. Photo supplied

31 Hornets are selected for higher honours

 By BEN PLUMMER

To build on an impressive year for the Howick Hornets

Rugby League Football Club, 31 players and two coaches have been selected for representative sides.

Hornets’ media manager Josh Garry says for the entire season, senior squads have worked tirelessly to be the best they can be for their club and their fans.

“We at the Howick Hornets are … extremely proud to be able to return the favour and support the massive 31 players as well as two coaches, who have deservedly been selected for higher honours,” Garry says.

Seventeen of the 31 players selected from the club took the field for the Hornets premier women in their women’s premiership-winning season.

“Of course, we believe there could have been more, but given the abundance of promising tal-

ent throughout Auckland Rugby League there unfortunately isn’t room for everyone,” Garry says.

The NZRL national men’s and Sky Sport women’s premierships competitions both kick off on Saturday, September 2 and take place over six consecutive weekends.

HORNETS REPRESENTATIVE PLAYERS

Counties Manukau Stingrays

boys U18

• Francis Tuimauga

• Kalani Peyroux-Donaldson

• Rodney Tuipulotu Vea

• Te Waaka Popata Henare Counties Manukau Stingrays

premier women

• Benji Tova

• Cassie Ormsby

• Charlotte Davis

• Sam Curtis

• Seifua Pio

• Taylor Curtis

• Tulu Aipolo Counties Manukau Stingrays

Have friends over and cook up a storm!

Come and check out our fantastic entertainer’s kitchens that come with every newly renovated villa at Pakuranga Park. Our residents rave about the size and quality of their sunny homes and how close they are to cafe’s and shopping at Howick Village. We have only a few remaining, so don’t miss the chance to secure yours now.

Why not give Sylvie a call today on 027 314 5767 and take a look for yourself.

premier men

• Alan Niulevu

• Anthony Fuimaono

• Brandon Lee

• Jethro Friend

• Jody Henry

• Liam Prendergast

• Manu Fatialofa

• Phranklyn Mano-Le-Mamea

• Tahi Baggaley

• Tamehana Paruru

Head Coach: Ruka Loza (Hornets premier men head coach)

Auckland Vulcans premier women

• Barbra Auva’a

• Cilia-Marie Po’e-Tofaeono

• Jonsal Tautari

• Lisa Edwards Rua

• Mele Fotu-Moala

• Platinum Marsters

• Saphire Abraham

• Shontelle Woodman

• Wendy Savieti

• Zayde Sarah-Baldwin

Assistant Coach: Blake Ewe (Hornets premier reserve men head coach)

Hornets premier women player Cassie Ormsby was named in the Counties Manukau Stingrays premier women’s side. Times photo Wayne Martin

From skinny dipping to the City of Palaces, EastLife takes you on a wildly exciting journey.

A TIMELESS ESCAPE

Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, India is the white, marbled city of Udaipur that is steeped in history. On a flying visit to Udaipur, FARIDA MASTER learnt a lesson or two on the fine art of hospitality, that makes every tourist feel so special.

As you step out of the aircraft, the first thing that strikes you about Udaipur is a wonderful sense of pride that everyone takes in welcoming you to the city.

From the crew at the airport to the taxi drivers, the receptionist and concierge at the hotel, tourist guides, shopkeepers, and strangers you’ve just met, have one question to ask: ‘How do you like our city?’

You get the impression that each person you meet is a selfappointed, personal ambassador with an ingrained sense of hospitality embedded in their DNA. This uniquely endearing

quality seems to work wonders for the huge influx of tourism to the City of Palaces, lakes and white marble, known as the Venice of the East.

The new hotels on the block are also designed to look like ornate retreats that treat you like royalty!

As our very friendly and chatty taxi driver drove us to the Radisson Blu Udaipur Palace Resort & Spa, he not only briefed us on the must-visit sights but also highly recommended restaurants we should visit, the delicacies we should try and cautioned us against tour guides luring unwitting visitors to buy expensive linen. A warning

we didn’t heed to, much to his disapproval. But we’ll keep that for another day.

Instead let’s talk about the warm, traditional welcome we were greeted with as we stepped into the marbled arch of the sprawling palace resort. A gaggle of pretty girls draped in silk saris and sunny smiles, smeared our foreheads with a vermillion dot and gave us garlands of marigold flowers, sprinkled us with petals, rice and rose water.

An exotic welcome drink with cookies, chocolates and bottled water was on offer, as we settled in the reception area, while the hotel staff got busy with our check-in process.

FARIDA MASTER, EDITOR

Continued from page 11.

Much as we were enjoying the luxe treatment, we decided to make the most of our shot break and head straight for the renowned City Palace, that stands on the east bank of Lake Pichola.

Built over 400 years, the majestic structure has several palaces within its complex built by a succession of kings of the Mewar Dynasty. Intricately designed with domes, towers and balconies, the City Palace instantly transports one to a bygone era. Built atop a hill, it offers a panoramic view of the

bustling city.

Taking us on a wander through the pages of history, was our tour guide who showed us around the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Glass and Mirrors), art gallery and the Palace of Pearls. He led us through secret corridors – an escape route for the king and his trusted chiefs. Apparently, the extremely narrow corridors served to ward off surprise attacks from big-built soldiers of the enemy camps.

Overlooking the tranquil Lake Pichola is the regal, white marbled Lake Palace, an 18th

century Mewar summer retreat that was transformed into the most exclusive Taj Lake Palace Hotel. The luxury hotel provided a perfect setting for the famous James Bond movie Octopussy

Another popular tourist attraction is the Saheliyon ki Bari (Garden of Maidens), landscaped gardens adorned with lotus ponds, rain fountains and marbled pavilions. The story goes that the lush gardens were specially created by King Sangram Singh 11, for his beloved queen and her entourage of 48 maidens – that came along as a wedding gift. The

Make the most of it.

Garden of Maidens was where the women had a good time.

Apart from the architecturally beauty of palaces and landscaped gardens, Udaipur is also known for its temples. The hub of spirituality has devotees arrive from different parts of the world to visit the sacred sites.

One of the temples we visited was the famous Ranakpur Jain Temple, a grand, white marble structure supported by exquisitely carved 1444 marble pillars. We were told that no two carved pillars are the same. The temple was built with 84

underground chambers to protect the sacred idols from the enemy attack, in days of yore. Fervent prayers are offered by pilgrims from far and near.

A visit to Udaipur is not complete without visiting the bustling local markets of Hathi Pol and Bada Bazaar. Local arts and craft, fabrics, mirror work, spices make it a sensory experience. All in all, while the sights and sounds of Udaipur make it a perfect holiday destination, it is the warmth and caring of the locals that make it a truly unforgettable experience.

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DYNAMIC WOMEN

HONESTY AND INTEGRITY ARE KEY

Dedicated and committed to helping her client’s real estate goals to become a reality is what Stephanie strives to achieve. Her naturally friendly and positive nature enable her to build trust and maintain relationships with her clients throughout their real estate journey. Having worked in the airline industry, Stephanie can relate to a diverse range of cultures and deliver an outstanding level of customer service in every aspect of her work. She believes every real estate journey is a partnership and consistent, and clear communication is vital. She is led by her desire to produce excellent results for her clients and places high value on honesty and integrity, as she works hard to exceed her client’s expectations whilst ensuring a smooth and seamless experience from start to finish.

STEPHANIE CHAN, BOULGARIS

021 822 555 stephanie@boulgaris.com 330 Parnell Road, Parnell

37 YEARS OF EXPERTISE AND PASSION FOR REAL ESTATE

Carol’s roots in the Real Estate profession run deep, tracing back to her childhood and her family’s enduring commitment to housing development in the community. A homeowner at the age of 18, Carol’s involvement with the industry started 37 years ago as a part owner in the family building business. During that time, she developed an in-depth understanding of the building industry, homeowners and purchasers’ requirements, and the intricacies of housing design. Born and raised in the area, educated at Macleans College, Carol’s dedication to the area is unwavering. Over the last 26 years, Carol has proven herself to be one of the most successful and effective salespeople in the local real estate market.

CAROL WOODS, RAY WHITE EASTERN GROUP

(09) 217 2323 /021 916 860 carol.woods@raywhite.com

EXPERIENCE THE EXCEPTIONAL

Hara Jeng is driven by an unwavering passion: forging harmonious connections between properties and people. With a vast reservoir of experience, Hara has honed her craft of exceptional customer service, cultivating a deep understanding of people. Embracing a resolute belief in the pivotal role of accurate information for informed decisions, Hara’s paramount goal is to champion both sellers and buyers in their quest to discover the ideal home for its perfect owner. Guided by principles of knowledge, empathy, and steadfast patience, she navigates the real estate market with finesse, ensuring the alignment of aspirations on both ends. Hara’s services are marked by adaptability — she tailors her engagement to the unique pace of each client. Whether the need calls for expediency or a deliberate and patient approach, she crafts a personalized service plan attuned to individual preferences.

021 0235 6335 hara.jeng@raywhite.com

TURNING DREAMS INTO ‘REALTY’

Marie is unique in so many aspects of real estate that it just seems natural she would consistently achieve the highest accolades available to licensed salespeople within the Ray White brand. Marie understands the importance of really listening to her client’s needs and the values they seek when selecting an agent to sell their property. Marie believes there is an art to asking the right questions and to never make assumptions. With over 27 years in real estate with the Ray White Howick office, Marie has poured 100% commitment into her role and has built an incredible network of contacts and an enviable database. Being consistently one of the company’s top performers, she has gained recognition with multiple high achiever awards, year after year. Her extensive knowledge of the area is overwhelming and with a confident, fun-loving personality, she is always pleased to help others by sharing this knowledge.

MARIE RAOS, RAY WHITE HOWICK

(09) 538 1280/ 0274 810 199 marie.raos@raywhite.com 12 Uxbridge Road, Howick

TOP REAL ESTATE AGENT

Dynamic Real Estate agent Ellen Ming has one of the most recognisable faces on the Bucklands Beach peninsula. Her focus is on marketing homes to achieve the very best sale price for her clients and after 30 years of living in the community and knowing the houses intimately, is able to match the right buyer with the perfect home. Ellen says, “We are very much part of the community,” having helped hundreds of people move into new homes. “It is a privilege being part of people’s changing lives and seeing their dreams come true.” If you are thinking of selling your home and want to entrust it to a proven expert who has sold over 500 homes locally, do give Ellen a call.

ELLEN MING, RAY WHITE

021 450 856 ellen.ming@raywhite.com

6 Wharf Road, Bucklands Beach

A STRESS FREE EXPERIENCE

Since the last 15 years Clare Nicholson has built a reputation as an effective and professional advocate, consistently achieving the best result for her clients. Clare joined the Ray White Howick team after a highly successful career at Bayleys Real Estate as a top performer. She attributes her success to the support of past clients who both re-list and refer friends and family. 80% of Clare’s business comes from happy, satisfied clients who refer her to friends and family. Specialising in marketing residential property, Clare has produced outstanding results throughout the Eastern Suburbs of Auckland and offers exceptional support and expertise to her clients. Clare is fully committed in helping clients achieve their property dreams, and believes that selling and buying a property should be an enjoyable experience, stress free experience.

Clare’s experience, stress free experience.

(09) 947 6336 / 021 2900 505 clare.nicholson@raywhite.com

HARA JENG, RAY WHITE HOWICK

CLARE NICHOLSON, RAY WHITE HOWICK

LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE

Whether it’s wild camping under the stars, listening to the sounds of silence or skinny dipping, the second edition of Lonely Planet’s You Only Live Once is a delightful compilation of experiences, responsible travel and giving back to a planet. With ideas that take an hour, a day, a week, a month, or a year, it’s packed with tips on living spontaneously and exploring a lifetime of adventures. An excerpt from the well-curated book.

SKINNY DIPPING

Ahhhwhoomp... and you’re under. Teeth clenched from the cold. Ahhhshhhure... you re-emerge from the water, laughing brightly, hairs on end. Skinny dipping is one of life’s great freedoms: a spontaneous collision of giddy excitement and the right environment. Quick, there’s no one around. Clothes off... and in!

JÄTKÄNKÄMPPÄ, FINLAND

Up near the Arctic Circle, where huskies pant in the cold and the Northern Lights dance like psychedelic flames against inky-dark skies, there is a type of skinny dipping favoured by hardy Finns: talviuinti (ice-swimming). Lakes are frozen October to May, so locals carve out an aavanto (ice-hole) for the perfect post-sauna cool-off. At a bits-shrivelling -20°C, even the quickest of sploshes sees skinny dippers reappear alive and bright-eyed.

Essential information: Jätkänkämppä, a traditional savusauna (smoke sauna) in Kuopio, eastern Finland, is a great place to start.

HAGUE LAKE CORTES ISLAND, CANADA

It’s a good ol’ schlep up to Cortes from Vancouver Island, but you’ll be glad to arrive: white-sand beaches, warm water (in summer); and a backdrop of the Coast Mountain Range’s glacial peaks make this a spellbinder for skinny-dippers. And, the lake’s no-motor rule and remote location ensures pristine swimming. Just watch out for kayakers! Back on land, hiking and biking await in the surrounding parks.

Essential information: Ferries from Campbell River on Vancouver’s northern side run to Cortes’ Whaletown Terminal, an 18.5km drive from Hague Lake.

ALEXANDRA BAY, AUSTRALIA

You won’t need to pack your budgie smugglers for this glorious arc of pristine sand in Noosa National Park, some 120km north of Brisbane. It can all hang loosa at A-Bay, one of Australia’s first and finest nudist beaches. Skinny dipping spots don’t come much better, but only the most hardened of naturists make it to this remote east-coast shoreline. Most days, the only thing between your privates and Peru will be the South Pacific.

Essential information: A-Bay is a 3km walk from Sunshine Beach; park at Seaview Terrace car park and head north to the signposted Coastal Walk and A-Bay.

KUROKAWA ONSEN, JAPAN

Volcanic-spring (onsen) bathing is among the most popular of Japan’s ancient traditions –particularly with city dwellers, who repaire to locations around the country for a revivifying dip, in the nude. Among the most picturesque are the springs of Kurokawa in the Kyushu prefecture, with over 30 baths: purchase a wooden tegata pass for access to three different onsen. Alcohol and tattoos (unless very small or covered in bandages) are verboten.

Essential information: There are regular daily buses to Kurokawa Onsen from Aso (1hr), Kumamoto (2.5hr), Beppu (2.5hr) and Hakata Station (3hr).

WIN!

To enter the draw visit www.eastlife.co.nz. One entry per email address / person; entries close September 6, 2023. Winners notified by phone or email.

MORE THAN A BUCKET LIST

You only live once… but if you do it right, once is enough -- Mae West. Choose from more than 250 exciting travel ideas to help plan a lifetime of adventures. Featuring spectacular photography and illustrations, Lonely Planet’s second edition of You Only Live Once (RRP $44.99) connects you to the world’s best sustainable, responsible and fulfilling travel experiences. Filled with inspiration for a well lived life, it’s more than a bucket-list! Be in to WIN one of the six copies of You Only Live Once.

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Jätkänkämppä, Finland

ENJOY THE SILENCE

The world’s getting louder every day. For a dose of peace and quiet, retreat to an isolated beach, park or desert. Wait until you’re out of earshot of the crowds and then feel yourself become absorbed by the quiet. You’ll notice that, far from being silent, the natural world in a seemingly empty landscape is full of hushed sounds: a low hum from the bush, the soft wash of surf or a squeak of sand beneath your feet. And it’s this near silence that has the capability to bring you the utmost peace.

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK WASHINGTON, USA

Although it’s accessed from Hwy 101, Olympic remains one of the least-peopled national parks in mainland USA, so you can wander without seeing another soul. Most of the park remains relatively untouched by human habitation, with 1000-year-old cedar trees juxtaposed with pristine alpine meadows, clear glacial lakes and a largely roadless interior. Reach the park’s coast and the only soundtrack will be the crashing of Pacific surf on wild shores.

Essential information: The park boasts numerous large, car-accessible campgrounds and around 100 backcountry campsites for overnight excursions.

DAMARALAND, NORTHWEST NAMIBIA

Damaraland is one of the country’s last ‘unofficial’ wildlife regions, and one of the only remaining refuges of the black rhino. Few people live in this ancient landscape and as it’s harder to see megafauna, safari parties head elsewhere. There’s even a petrified forest and fine prehistoric rock art nearby. You’ll likely have the place to yourself –just you and a family of elephants sucking up acacia pods like giant vacuum cleaners.

Essential information: Guides are compulsory when visiting Twyfelfontein’s rock engravings; bear in mind that tips are their only source of income.

THE EMPTY QUARTER, ARABIAN PENINSULA

Covering 655,000 sq km of Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE and Yemen, Rub al-Khali spans a fifth of the Arabian Peninsula. Long chains of sculpted dunes reach up to 250m high in this ‘abode of silence’, where cloaks of early morning fog further deaden any sounds. The Bedouin simply call it ‘the sands’. You can explore the desert with a 4WD, but be sure to bring all provisions with you.

Essential information: Arrange overnight stays or trips to the more scenic dunes further in with a tour company or an experienced tour guide.

NORTHUMBERLAND ENGLAND

Sparsely populated Northumberland National Park is one of England’s last true wildernesses. Keep an eye out in the woodlands: this is one of the few places in the country in which to spot red squirrels. Or take a glimpse at some of the world’s darkest skies (and the Milky Way) at Kielder Observatory. A section of Hadrian’s Wall – the Roman wall running coast-to-coast – also weaves through the park.

Essential information: Visit April to May and you’re sure to see lambs; or come in August when the moors turn purple with flowering heather.

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The Empty Quarter, Arabian Peninsula

Damaraland, Northwest Namibia

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WHAT’S ON OUT EAST

SPRING SHOW

September 2, 10.30am-2pm, The New Fencible Lounge, Uxbridge Rd, Howick

Spring is here and what better way to celebrate it with than with an abundance of prized flowers. The Howick Horticultural Society is hosting its Spring Show in its 100th year of existence! Expect to see floral art, cut flowers on display, fruits and vegetables. There will also be a raffle and plant sale. Award presentation at 2pm.

BOOK CHAT

Join us over a cuppa to chat about what you’ve been reading, Friday, September 8, 10.30am at Pakuranga Library, phone 377 0209, email: Pakuranga.library@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

TE REO MĀORI WORKSHOP

Te Reo Māori for adult beginners’ basic pronunciation at Howick Library with Roimata Prendergast from Howick Village, Tuesday, September 12, 10.30am – 11.30am. Free workshop. Bookings essential, contact Howick.Library@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

GARAGE SALE

Our next sale is at The Barn, Trinity Methodist Church, 474 Pakuranga Rd, beginning at 8am on Saturday, September 2. We will be having a clearance of winter clothes and shoes, and the special this month is books. We have a large selection of books, which will all be available at $2 a bag.

INTERCULTURAL CLUB

Till September 4, Highland Park Library

Hear from creatives behind the immersive audio exhibition Pacific frequencies: Mahu, and get the opportunity to view the work with the artists present. This sonic exhibition highlights indigenous and Pacific stories of home and healing, created, by an all wāhine production collective BRŌWNALFĀ. The installation features a purpose built Polynesian-themed living room.

FROM CROATIA TO AUSTRALIA

The girl who left: from Croatia to the canefields – Debra

Gavranich. Growing up during WWII on the Croatian island Korcula, Debra’s mother, Marija, made the brave choice to escape the post-war trauma by becoming a proxy bride to a complete stranger in north Queensland. This is her story.

Friday, September 15, 2pm at Pakuranga Library, phone 377 0209, email Pakuranga.library@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

EASTERN DISTRICT COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

Wednesday, September 6, 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 please phone Bev 021 11 56 866.

HOWICK TRAMPING CLUB

Tuesday, September 12. Club night is 7:30pm on the second Tuesday of each month in the Haseler Hall below the All Saints Church in Selwyn Road, Howick. Cover charge $2. This month we will present a slideshow from the club trip to the Kaimanawa Ranges in October 2022. For club information, contact Margaret 027 227 2427.

SCHOOL ART COMPETITION

Botany Downs Secondary School is hosting the third annual Focus Art Competition. Presented by Davis Funeral Care, Focus nurtures the artistic talent from local secondary schools. Join in viewing the wonderful pieces of art on display over the weekend of September 2 and 3 from 12pm-3pm at Botany Downs Secondary School or come along to prizegiving from 3pm on Sunday 3rd September.

WAIT UNTIL DARK

September 9-30, 8pm, Howick Little Theatre

In this adaptation of the 1966 classic, Susan Hendrix, a blind yet capable woman, is terrorised by a trio of men in her apartment in Greenwich Village in 1944. As the climax builds, Susan discovers her blindness might be the key to her escape, but she and her tormentors must wait until dark to play out this thriller’s chilling conclusion. Matinees on Saturday, September 10 and 17, 2pm.

SENIORNET PAKURANGA

Visitors are welcome to the September 1, SeniorNet meeting at St Andrew’s Church Centre, Howick, starting at 10am. It starts with refreshments before speakers cover interesting smartphone apps and features, moves to an introduction of ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence feature much in the news. A recording of Netsafe’s presentation on the latest wave of scams and viruses will cover the topic of internet safety.

GENEALOGISTS

The next meeting of the Howick Branch of the NZSG is on Saturday, September 9 at St Andrew’s Church Centre, Vincent Street, Howick at 1.30pm. Robert Clark will be speaking about the history and settlements on Raoul Island. Door charge $5. Visitors welcome. For further information please phone 5764715 or 576-5400.

U3A

Volunteering – our suburb, town, city and world would be much worse off without the army of volunteers who give their time to assist in a multitude of ways without expecting or getting any remuneration. Dr Ashley Wilson, who graduated from Canterbury University with a PHD in Chemistry, volunteered to work in the Solomon Islands. All are welcome to come and hear Dr Wilson talk about his experiences at 9.30am on September 11 at the Howick Bowling Club in Selwyn Rd, Howick. Ph Jan 027 220 3777.

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

PUZZLE TIME

Quick Puzzle NO. 8125

Cryptic Puzzle NO. 8125

ACROSS

7. Home acquired when one gets a good increment? (4-4-4).

8. Hardly cares, somehow, about the cold (6).

9. Parts of the books on anatomy? (6).

10. The work, urge one to keep down (7).

12. The beginning of spring (5).

15. Pretty girl who gave the alarm, we’re told (5).

16. Except for preventing access through the windows (7).

18. When the fish is like a jellyfish (6).

20. What you did with the suit (6).

22. Church silver? (8,4).

DOWN

1. For the record, I get some pleasure from being a follower (8).

2. Help to blacken (4).

3. Sickness for which the seaside is ordered (7).

4. Let a number derive comfort from it (5).

5. In the covered arcade, the sire and colt play together (8).

6. The pen yesterday started developing faults (4).

11. Let the communist out,

13. Nips across and rehearses (4,4).

14. Bleats about the girl like mad! (7).

17. Send, at the right time, back (5).

19. The darned punch! (4).

21. Having got up, put on a garment: old (4).

CRISS-CROSS

MAKE FATHER’S DAY SPECIAL!

With Father’s Day around the corner, getting the perfect gift can be tricky. Luckily, we have Lush’s Limited Edition, Father’s Day creations for two lucky winners! We’ve got an Out of this World Gift Set – a pair of refreshing bathing stars, great for a morning bath or when you’re looking to take a break from the everyday (RRP $28). We also have an Into the World Gift Set for dad to freshen up and unwind with a mix of four best-selling bath and body care products, and a seasonal exclusive shower gel (RRP $65).

JOBS n

Terry’s

Is

UPHOLSTERERS

SOLUTIONS

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8125

Across - 7, Anaesthetise. 8, Bedlam. 9, Crease. 10, Install. 12, Dingo. 15, Globe. 16, Hickory. 18, Bangle. 20, Awaken. 22, Inauspicious. Down - 1, Infernal. 2, Well. 3, Stumble. 4, Bench. 5, Limerick. 6, Less. 11, Toboggan. 13, Gorgeous. 14, Titanic 17, Tense. 19, Arid. 21, Aria.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8125

Across - 7, High-rise flat. 8, Sc-arce. 9, Spines. 10, Op-press. 12, Start. 15, Belle (bell). 16, Barring. 18, As-hake. 20, Action. 22, Clerical grey.

Down - 1, Disc-I-ple(asure). 2, Char. 3, Disease (anag.). 4, Lease. 5, Cloister (anag.). 6, Stye (anag.). 11, Re-lease-d. 13, Runs over. 14, Ba-Nan-as. 17, R-emit. 19, Sock. 21, Tog-a.

CRISS-CROSS NO. 106

Across - 1, Subscribe; 9, Radius; 10, Reluctant; 11, Bureau; 12, Beginning; 14, Alfresco; 19, Thanksgiving Day; 20, Doorjamb; 25, Audiobook; 26, Harare; 27, Spaghetti; 28, Lupine; 29, Gratitude.

Down - 2, Uneven; 3, Studio; 4, Rotund; 5, Banana; 6, Casuarina; 7, Riverside; 8, Pseudonym; 13, Glove; 15, Study Hall; 16, Barograph; 17, Skijoring; 18, Agama; 21, Bumper; 22, Widget; 23, Object; 24, Dotted

ADVERTISING TERMS AND CONDITIONS

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.

 Specialist waterblasting & housewashing, driveways, paths, decks & windows

 Domestic & commercial

 Low pressure bio-wash



WATER BLASTING House wash, roof treat or gutter clean. Free quote call Michelle on (09) 537 4320

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

Meeting will be held Thursday 21 September, 12pm. The venue is the Local Board meeting room, Pakuranga Library Complex, 7 Aylesbury St, Pakuranga.

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

PERSONAL

THANKSGIVING PRAYER TO ST JUDE

Most Holy St Jude, you have heard, saved and protected me especially in difficult times. I thank you for all the favours which you have granted me. I offer you my love, faith and a very grateful heart. Amen.

Muna

THANKSGIVING PRAYER TO ST RITA

DE288402

Most loving St Rita, you have always heard my petitions and answered my prayers. With a very grateful heart I thank you for being with me always and for all the favours which you have granted me. Amen.

Muna

SITUATIONS VACANT

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

We are a leading NZ importer, manufacturer and distributor of commercial & industrial duty water blasting equipment, high pressure pumps and agricultural spraying equipment. Our office and workshop is located in East Tamaki.

We require an experienced administrator, for reception, invoicing, debtors & creditors, end of month management reports, payroll and general office duties. This will include making service bookings for our customers and liaising with our service engineer. This is a full time, sole charge position. Full training will be given.

The position would suit a person who enjoys working in a small friendly team environment.

CHURCH COMMUNITY

St Paul’s in the Park Anglican Church 141 Chapel Rd, Botany; Ph: 021-548-407 Sunday, 9:30am Service: Holy Communion incl. Sunday School | stpaulsinthepark.nz

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

PERSONAL

PRAYER TO THE VIRGIN MARY

(Never known to fail)

O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruit of the Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, Assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother.

O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succour me in my necessity There are none that can withstand your power. O help me and show me herein you are my Mother.

O Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times).

Oh Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (3 times) Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Amen.

The prayer must be said for 3 days and the request will be granted and the prayer must be published. Thanks for prayers answered.

VSK CD245818

The Director: AES Waterblasters alan@aesblasters.co.nz www.aesblasters.co.nz

ADMINISTRATION/SALES

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

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

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

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

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

St Columba Presbyterian Church

480 Ti Rakau Drive, Botany Ph: 274 4864

Father’s Day Combined service 3rd September @ 9:30am

Normal Sunday services 8:30am & 10:30am

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

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

We are looking for an enthusiastic and organised EA to work within our Administration Team to provide exceptional support to our Principal and the Pakuranga College Board. This is a permanent, full-time position of 37.5 hours per week, 52 weeks of the year. For more details about the position and how to apply, please refer to our website: www.pakuranga.school.nz.

Applications close on 6 September 2023.