March 2021 by West Franklin Breeze

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WEST

FRANKLIN

A breath of fresh air for West Franklin VOLUME 2, EDITION 3

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PH: 09 235 7835

MARCH 2021

Powerhouse produce powders from Dry NZ Dry NZ, a company which produces dried fruit and vegetable powders, has been operating at Waiuku Business Park for four years. STORY TIFFANY BROWN

Managing Director Anne Gibson said she first discovered the products as a potential remedy for her rheumatoid arthritis. “At the time I was on medication and about to increase the meds. I decided enough was enough, and was open to trying something natural. I started on one teaspoon of turmeric daily, the meds were discarded and I am now pain and med-free.” This success led Anne to invest, and eventually take on the management of the company. Dried fruit generally contain good levels of fibre, and is a rich source of antioxidants, especially polyphenols, which are associated with health benefits like better digestion, improved blood flow, decreased oxidative damage and a reduced risk of a range of diseases. The operation, which employs six people, sources over 30 kinds of top-quality NZ-grown fruit and vegetables, including some from local suppliers Punchbowl and Wilcox Farms, before processing, drying and grinding them at the Waiuku

Preparing plums to be included in a new muesli product from Chantel Organics.

From left: Anne Gibson DryNZ owner, Caleb Rack, Tawha Kirkwood, Jarome Carrington, Taiehu Taupo, Nikora McPherson, Tiahuia Edwards, Flynn Currey and Daisy Pattinson DryNZ supervisor.

facility. In addition to the range of fruit and vegetable powders, the company sells a unique ‘drinking fruit powder’ product, a sachet of dried fruit in five different flavours that can be enjoyed hot or cold by mixing with water. By marketing our country’s clean, green image to the rest of the world, around 60% of Dry NZ’s business was previously in exports. The company is now looking to expand its domestic and retail markets to compensate for a significant post-covid reduction in exports. The company is currently working with cereal companies, supermarkets and research and development companies in the food and beverage industry. Waiuku College students were employed at the operation in February for their seasonal plum de-stoning project. Anne said Dry NZ is happy in its Waiuku home and even when projected growth gets back on track, the business will not need to relocate, as the current premises has plenty of room for expansion. Dry NZ loves supporting locals in West Franklin. “Everyone is very supportive and goes that extra mile.”

Manukau Harbour ‘Gems’

The Manukau Harbour is New Zealand’s largest harbour after the Kaipara Harbour. With 520km of coastline, it is home to many hidden gems.

Auckland Council promote it as such, and recommend we visit places such as Huia, French Bay Beach, Blockhouse Bay Beach Reserve, Onehunga Foreshore, Ambury Farm Park and Awhitu Lighthouse. All beautiful places, and as Franklin residents, I’m sure you could name a few more special places, that are just as significant and beautiful, if not more so. Most people have an affinity with the harbour, whether that be culturally, ecologically, socially or economically. It’s a place we are proud of, and humbled by. A place to be respected and taken care of. Why is it then, that there are a few gems within the harbour that some would wish remain hidden, or would prefer that your attention not be

drawn too closely to? And I’m not talking about your favourite fishing spot. I’m drawing attention to the recent chemical spill of 5000 litres into the harbour, and the on-going problem of raw sewerage and stormwater being discharged into the Manukau. Methacrylate, a chemical compound used in the manufacture of plastics and adhesives was spilled into a stormwater drain, and consequently the Manukau on 12 February. This spill came from a specialist chemical business, Allnex, in Penrose. Auckland Council released a statement advising people not to enter the water within 5km of the spill. The health risk relative to the chemical was low, but as a precautionary measure, if they smelt an acrid fruity odour, they should shut their

doors and windows. They advised that staff were assessing the impact to marine life and vegetation. They were testing the harbour water, and a pollution control team were working on a clean-up. They added that no health issues had been raised, but did mention that 100 eels had been found dead. That’s ok news if you’re a human, not so great if you happen to be an eel or whatever life form affected that you won’t see, or hear about. I spoke to Jim Jackson, Chairman of the Manukau Harbour Restoration Society. Which is a membership organisation, focused on getting the harbour back to its original environmental state and water quality. Continued page 3.

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WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ

FEBRUARY 2021

THE BREEZE

Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust

Crossword

MONTHLY MISSIONS

FEBRUARY Waiuku

Crossword No XC249111

7th Waiuku Crew tasked to Waiuku to assist a boy suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Starship Hospital in a critical condition.

Awhitu

15th Awhitu Crew tasked to Awhitu assist a female patient in her 60s after the vehicle she was driving rolled into a ditch. As she was in a minor condition, transportation by helicopter to hospital wasn’t required and Westpac 2 returned to base.

Waiuku

20th W2 Waiuku Crew tasked to Waiuku to assist a female patient in her 50s involved in a motorcycle versus vehicle accident. She was the pillion passenger on the motorcycle and was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition. W1 Waiuku Crew tasked to Waiuku to assist a male patient in his 50s involved in a motorcycle versus vehicle accident. He was the rider on the motorcycle and was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition.

Waiuku Fire Brigade Callouts

JANUARY

Masters Road

Vegetation

Awhitu Road

Vegetation

Awhitu Road

MVA

Karioitahi Beach

Medical

Andrew Pye Road

Vegetation

Awhitu Road

Life assistance

Kemp Road

MVA

Colombo Road

Medical

Sandspit Road

Medical

Matai Street

Rubbish

Melsop Avenue

Cultural Cooking Fire

Brookside Drive

Rubbish

Conroy Road

Rubbish

Wymer Road

Tree across road

Belgium Street

Set up landing zone

Smith Road

Rubbish

King Street

Tree on fire

Melsop Avenue

Rubbish

Matai Street

Vegetation

Glenbrook Beach Road

Smoke in area

Andrew Pye Road

Vegetation

Misa Road

MVA

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09 957 0123 142 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe and 16 Bowen St, Waiuku

with Sgt Dean Borrell

Drug warrants keep police busy Waiuku Police have been down one constable over the last few months with Constable Patten working at the America’s Cup base in the city. Fortunately it hasn’t been too busy around Waiuku and we managed the staff shortage. We’ve executed search warrants at a few addresses lately that had been supplying or cultivating drugs in the past few weeks. Police are always getting information about addresses involved in such activity from the public, so thank you. Often when you provide us information, especially anonymously, it may feel like we are not doing anything, but it all helps, and we can build a picture and importantly evidence. Information on its own without hard evidence is not usually enough. For us to enter a house we need a search warrant that is signed by the court, so there is a reasonably high evidential bar to reach and that may take weeks or months to build. So please keep the info coming in. Late last year we uncovered a large scale cannabis growing operation at a rural property just out of town. The country house, sheds and a shipping container had been used to cultivate hundreds of cannabis plants by persons who had leased the property and this was unknown to the property owner. By the time Police were told of the suspicious activity, the plants and much of the equipment had been cleared out and the offenders gone. We are following some leads as to the identity of the offenders.

Crossword No XC2491

9 1

They will now be doing the same at 12 13 14 15 another rural property. So again if 12 13 14 you are aware of a property that has 16 17 suspicious activity: let us know via 16 17 reporting it on phone number 105 or 18 19 20 21 22 anonymously on 0800-555 111. 18 19 20 21 If it’s something that is happening 23 24 25 now you can call 111. 23 24 25 Behaviour at Karioitahi beach has been better so far this summer. 26 27 26 27 Council, Police and other stakeholdCrossword No XC24911128 28 ers have tried to restrict the problem 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 vehicles from the beach and this ACROSS DOWN 9 seems to be working.ACROSS As I’ve8 said DOWN 3 Old East German follows river to find perch (5) 1 American 8 Fool is oneperch from Italian 2 Onethe toilin before, Police can’t be at all 3 the Oldbeach East German follows river to find (5) city 1 (6) American who inhabits W 10 11 9 (6) Everyone is accommodating English friends 3 Wine law gets Fool is one 2 One toiling at(6) unravelling the time so it relies on 8education to from Italian city 10 Two notes from operatic heroine (4) 4 Over the m English friends (6) 3 Wine gets Sir Nigel drunk (8) get people to behave. 9 Everyone is accommodating 11 Not moving goods yet (5-5) (2,3,2,3,5) 12 13 14 15 10 Two–notes from operatic heroine (4) 4 Over the moon, having climbe Other notable happenings 12 Thus African country produces African (6) 5 Deal with 11 the Notunformoving goods yet (5-5) (2,3,2,3,5) 13 Capsize open vessel (8) 6 Idiot want Local Police attended 16 17 16 Gaunt young(6) Irene performs in musical 7 Retailer o 12 Thuslast African country produces African 5 Deal with equipment (6) tunate drowning at Karioitahi (5,3,4,3) 12 Very 13 Capsize open vessel (8) 6 Idiot wants 150 books (4) hard month. We attended a serious crash 18 21in Teen reformed22 with gaol 7stretch (8) of wine collection, 14 Back hom 18 19 young Irene 20 16 Gaunt performs musical Retailer sa 21 Police force has those people on film (3,3) 15 Group of on Misa Road three weeks(5,3,4,3) ago where 12 Very hard worker is left insideh 23 New peer’s given ring portraying Zeus’s 17 Working a local man later lost a18legTeen after his 24 with gaol stretch (8)25 23 reformed 14 Back home, I’ll follow cake w daughter (10) 19 Ollie upse mobility scooter and a collid-force has those people 21carPolice on general’s film (3,3) 15 Group of musicians tourin 25 US the dregs (4) 20 not Computer ed. Witnesses saw the23 manNew in the 26 27Give Zeus’s daughter a note perhaps (6) program ( peer’s given ring portraying 17 Working honestly or dishones 26 27 The Italian is after fast 19 food (6) 22keep Quote daughter Ollie upset wife so outmeo middle of the road beforehand but(10) 28 28 Play about District Attorney in the present time (6) 25continue US general’s 20 Computer manufacturer needs our serious crash team to the dregs (4) (5) 24 Openers f 26 Give daughter a note perhaps (6) program (6) investigate this. chap’s not ACROSS DOWN 27 burglaries The Italiantois after fast food (6) 22 Quote me retrospectively? It’l This week we had two 3 Old East German follows river to find perch (5) 1 American who inhabits the White House? (6) 28 Play about District Attorney in the present time (6) neighbouring baches atItalian Matakawau. 8 Fool is one from city (6) 2 One toiling at unravelling lawsuit (10) (5) 24(8) Openers for Sussex caught an 9 Everyone English friends (6) 3 Wine gets Sir Nigel drunk From one propertyis aaccommodating yellow jet ski chap’s not out (4) 10 Two notes from operatic heroine (4) 4 Over the moon, having climbed Everest? was stolen, please let Police know if 11 Not moving goods yet (5-5) (2,3,2,3,5) you have 12 any Thusinformation. African country produces African (6) 5 Deal with equipment (6) 13 Capsize vessel (8) with 6 Idiot wants 150 books (4) We have had aopen lot of issues 16 Gaunt young Irene performs in musical 7 Retailer of wine collection, say (6) young people causing minor disorder (5,3,4,3) 12 Very hard worker is left inside bar (5) issues 18 overTeen thereformed holidays in the town with gaol stretch (8) 14 Back home, I’ll follow cake with pasta (10) Policeskatepark force has those people on film (3,3) 15 Group of musicians not touring Tyneside (5) centre,21library, and swim23 New peer’s given ringschool portraying 17 Working honestly or dishonestly? (2,3,3) ming pool. Hopefully now hasZeus’s daughter (10) 19 Ollie upset wife so keep out of sight (3,3) started this willthebecome 7 25again US general’s dregs (4)less of 20 8 Computer manufacturer needs time to produce an issue. 26 Give daughter a note perhaps (6) program (6)

1 27 The Italian is after6fast food 3 (6)8 9 6 22 Quote1 me retrospectively? It’ll make you sick 28 Play about District Attorney in the present time (6) 2 (5) 1 5 4 5 for Sussex caught and bowled 3 1but this 7 24 Openers chap’s not out (4) 3 6 2 7 5 1 9 09 238 5188 4 2 1 7 9 1 3 Ph. 4 Mob. 021 343 335 Police later retracted this error in www. sepio.co.nz 9 and confirmed the 1 6 8 4 8 7 3 Specialists in commercial location drowning and domestic insurance took place at Karioitahi Beach. 5 7 3 7 9 8 Answers on page 14. We wanted to publish this correction 3 9 6 4 9 4 to avoid any confusion with respect to 1 7family and all emergency 5 8 the6 victim’s services involved. 2 6 3 8 3 9 2

Lake drowning Last month we reported that there had been a drowning at Lake Puketi on the 5 January. This had been confirmed by police at the time of the drowning and also published as such by major media outlets.

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B r e eze

3 8 7 6 9 2 2 8 2 9 7 6 5 7 6 2 4 1 4 8 2 4 7 5 9 Publishers: 1 4 7 3 Drop in Agents: Advertising Sales: Editorial: 4 Products Depot, 6 2 Bill & Ngaire Deed: 1 Action Office Sarah Lamb: 1 8 5 Tiffany Brown: 6 4 7 16 Bowen Street, 1 bill@westfranklinbreeze.nz 7 5 sales@westfranklinbreeze.nz tiffany@westfranklinbreeze.nz Waiuku. Ph: 09 235 7835 Keely Muir: 8 4 3 6 2 Distribution: keely@westfranklinbreeze.nz circulation@westfranklinbreeze.nz 2 2 5 5 9 2 8rural districts. Published 5 by Breeze 9 4Publications, 6 3 Waiuku West Franklin Breeze • 6200 copies delivered to Waiuku and the four WEST

FRANKLIN

MARCH 2021

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Dream come true for Dearna

COMMENTS AND OPINIONS

BY KEELY MUIR

As I write this we have been plunged into another level 3 lock down as the government mandated response to covid 19. Something that was unfortunately always possible or likely.

PHOTO: MARIE HULL

Young Angler Dearna Hull aged 12, experienced the thrill of a lifetime catching her first marlin recently. Dearna was on board Vadar, with skipper Travis Rankin at the helm, and fellow crew members David Hull, Matthew Douglas, and Max Douglas. Weather conditions had been a bit rough crossing the Waikato River bar that morning, and sea sickness was a concern for Dearna and her younger cousin Max. By the afternoon however, the weather had cleared. “Just in time to hook the big one,” says skipper Travis. When the fish first took the 15kg line, Dearna thought it was a tuna, but kept hopeful that this would be the day to catch the big one. “It wasn’t until we saw it jump out of the water, that we knew it was a marlin. It was so exciting,” said Dearna. It took all of the young angler’s strength to reel in the 113kg Marlin. “It was hard at times, as the fish would take line out after I had reeled lots in.” Dearna adds, “I had heaps of encouragement from the crew though, telling me to keep going,

Manukau Harbour ‘Gems’

Better lockdown boundaries this time

and that I could do this,” It took an hour and a half of Dearna’s sweat and tears to bring the marlin on board. Skipper Travis mentions, “It was pretty emotional for Dearna when the fish finally got to the boat. A combination of excitement, overwhelm and exhaustion. She did an amazing job.” The marlin was weighed in at Hoods Landing weigh station by Counties Sport Fishing Club. It has since been smoked and will no doubt be on the menu in the Hull, Rankin and Douglas households for many weeks to come. Dearna recovered from the exciting trip on board Vadar, with a long and much deserved sleep-in the next day, and is looking forward to trying her anglers’ luck again at the Fish n Chicks competition. Good luck Dearna.

Like everyone I had my fingers crossed that our stay at the response level will be as short as possible and the impacts on individuals, communities, organisations and businesses is minimal. It has been pleasing though to see on the face of it, that lessons learned from the previous regional lockdown have been heeded. However even in the first day, I was receiving comments from those involved in the implementation of the change of levels that the communication was last minute, contradictory and very much seat of the pants stuff. Having been involved in an agency debrief after the previous lockdown, if what I am was hearing is true, it is an indictment on those responsible. Time will tell but at least we seemed to have better placed and more pragmatic boundaries and checkpoints that some people in the north Waikato might not have enjoyed, it did allow greater ability for people to go about their work and move about if needed. This included areas like Aka Aka and Otaua, people were able to legally access the Waiuku town centre or other centres they normally frequent, that are within the wider Auckland area. At the start of February I took a long awaited holiday and tripped around the bottom of the South Island to many places I had never been before. My partner and I started to laugh about how often we came around a corner and exclaimed “wow, look at that.” We are blessed in this country to have some of the most stunning

landscapes and environments anywhere in the world. We have been so fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel about when so much of the rest of the world have been stuck at home or under tight restrictions. To be honest there were parts that made me think of some of our local gems such as the Awhitu Peninsula, the Hunua Ranges and our two coastlines, places, I don’t need to remind people, are as good as anywhere and worthy of visits when able. We diligently used our tracer app everywhere we went and were generally impressed with how many people were doing likewise. The recent cases show the importance of that practice. For us it also gave us the ability to look back at where we had been. I can honestly say I have a pretty thorough understanding of good cafes and other “establishments” from Christchurch to Stewart Island and on both coasts and an opinion on the refreshments they offer. It was also noticeable that sadly, many of the flash harry places had closed their doors and that it was those simpler and more down to earth “kiwi style” establishments that were surviving the best. Obviously less overheads, less debt maybe and often local family run with great community support type businesses were doing well in challenging circumstances. That was a strong message for me, look after your local businesses in these tough times. Despite the great trip, it was great to get home to our patch, the centre of the universe for sure.

Drivers needed

COCKY RECKONS

Forty-three years ago, the Waiuku Meals on Wheels began providing a life line for locals in need. Within that time countless nurturing meals have been created and then delivered, providing an essential service to Waiuku residents. Now the tables have turned, and it is the meals on wheels service that needs our help. “Most of our drivers have been in the sixty-seventy-year age bracket,” says Helen Sellers, secretary of the meals on wheels committee. “During Covid lockdown, a lot of our drivers needed to stay home, being over seventy, and stay safe. Understand-

ably, since then, many have decided to take a break from delivering, so we need some young blood to join our team and help deliver meals.” If you have your current drivers licence, a vehicle, and some free time between the hours of 11am and 1pm on weekdays, Waiuku meals on wheels would love to hear from you. All work is voluntary, and no deliveries are made on weekends or public holidays. See Notices section of the Breeze for contact details.

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Continued from Page 1 Jim describes the incident as another event, no different from other regular ones that aren’t reported in the media. “Self-containment procedures, including bunding should be mandatory, especially where chemicals are being unloaded, processed and stored. During recent chemical spills into the harbour, the question must be asked, Jim wonders why have they not worked. “We continue writing reports, but ultimately nothing changes. Someone might get fined, but long-term education of risk minimisation, by all parties operating within the catchment area is essential, otherwise, nothing will change,” he said. Jim went on to address the dead zones that are now in the Manukau. “Commercial fishermen who have operated generationally on the harbour for over sixty years have witnessed a change to marine life at waste water discharge points around the harbour. These areas were once flourishing areas of marine life and today are treated as dead zones, which is of concern.,” says Jim. “Some fifty years ago there were large scallop beds close to Puketutu Island and today Puketutu Island is Watercare’s main discharge point for Auckland’s treated waste water, and the scallops have all but disappeared.” During storm events Watercare and Healthy Waters water collection networks become overloaded and allow raw sewerage and stormwater to be discharged into the harbour at designated overflow points resulting in harbour beaches being closed for periods due to contamination. “It is unfortunate that both central and local governments appear not to have clear understanding as to how the Manukau Harbour has been compromised over the last 100 years. This is due to poor management processes, and we have reached a point that a change needs to commence,” says Jim. “We are in need of a funding stream to help make change. Kaipara Harbour for example, received $100 million over ten years. If the Manukau Harbour was to receive similar funding, it would start a long overdue change programme, addressing fundamental issues such as water quality, erosion, and sedimentation,” he said. Jim adds, “There are other harbours in the world similar to the Manukau Harbour, but surrounded by much larger populations that are doing a far better job than we are.” If you are interested in finding out more, and how you can help, start by checking out The Manukau Harbour Restoration Society at www.mhrs.org.nz. Like the Friends of The Manukau Harbour Facebook page, and check out The Onehunga Enhancement Society (TOES). Also, if you want to gather an idea of what the Harbour was like 50 odd years ago, get your hands on a copy of Sea Cockies Of The Manukau by Mavis Brambley.

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WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ

MARCH 2021

Veteran small ship returns home

Extension to walkway possible in April STORY TIFFANY BROWN

Rev

G AN

A HE IW

Date

Amendment

Drawn

AN LE YC

RE SC EN T

RIV

SA ND

WA ITO A ST REE T

300m

SP IT R

ED SID ER

E RIV

OAD

400m

rived in Waiuku by road transporter from Thames, but it was only a short time before the vessel again proudly flaunted her original name Awhitu. Terry’s goal is to restore the vessel and return her to the harbour. The Awhitu was built in Auckland in 1925. When she was new the 39 foot vessel was powered by a four cylinder petrol engine, but just four years later she was re-engined with a diesel.

200m

Have your say on Auckland’s 10-year Recovery Budget 2021-2031 We want to recover from the impact of COVID-19 and support growth in our communities and our region. Go to akhaveyoursay.nz/recoverybudget to find out more and give Auckland Council your feedback between 22 February and 22 March.

AK HAVE YOUR SAY

Form concrete walkway

VIE W BAY

EEK

250

1200m

Legend Form aggregate walkway

A CR

1100m

Plan for the walkway extension

IWHE

1000m

RANG

The Awhitu on her first voyage on the Manukau Harbour in 1925.

900m

800m

600m

700m

DR IVE

SAN

1300m

ELSIE DRIV

500m

The Awhitu ran the last scheduled passenger service out of Waiuku in 1932. She continued serving the peninsula ports of Orua Bay, Big Bay and Grahams Beach on a service from Onehunga, but increasing competition from road transport saw the Awhitu carry her last passenger on the harbour in 1957. Soon after in the same year, she was sold to Kawhia Launches in Kawhia, then to G. H. Tomich of Tauranga in 1960, and has had several private owners since then. Under the name Inverness, local contractor Terry Short took ownership of the vessel after he was tipped off by fellow Waiuku historian Leo May that the ship was to be demolished. Leo became aware that there was a Thames-Coromandel Council order for the Inverness and another fishing vessel to be removed from their moorings at Thames. The name Inverness was on the vessel when it ar-

100m

The last commercial passenger ship to run on the Manukau Harbour has returned to her home base.

three to four weeks this April. The project to create a two-metre wide all-weather path will use all local Franklin contractors, suppliers and materials, as was the case in the first stage development. Community volunteers will also build a 22-metre section of boardwalk as part of the work required. Franklin Local Board member Sharlene Druyven said she was delighted to see the next stage of the project getting underway. “It’s so good to see another example of how successful community and council collaboration can be to plan and build a community asset like these awesome trails.”

As the Inverness, the Awhitu arrives in Waiuku by road transporter on 4 February 2021. Terry Short guides the transporter into place for the vessel to be removed.

The Waiuku Trails Implementation Committee has revealed plans for a new 1.4km section of walkway along Elsie Reserve from Sandspit Reserve/Rangiwhea Road to McCall Drive. This is the second stage of the Waiuku Trails Project funded by grants from Auckland Council and Franklin Local Board. The first stage saw the creation of a walk, jog, pram and bike-friendly path connecting Tamakae and Sandspit Reserves in 2019. Plans are subject to final consent approvals and may be delayed slightly due to covid lockdowns, but if they go ahead, installation will take place over

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MARCH 2021

WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ

Spin In 2021 This is the third year the Waiuku Spinners and Weavers have held their Spin In at the Pukekohe East Hall, on Sunday 28 February. This fun event attracted those interested in fibre crafts from the greater Auckland and Waikato regions. People bring their spinning or knitting, do a little shopping, exchange ideas and enjoy seeing the results of others creativity. And of course there were wonderful raffles and spot prizes, many of the prizes were supplied by some very generous local businesses. Several traders were present selling craft related wares such as wool and alpaca fleece, yarn and haberdashery. Well known fibre artist Caroline Burton demonstrated how to make a small light

tube, a fine felted continuous artwork, over a recycled plastic tube. There was a nostalgic display of items made many years ago, moth holes not withstanding. Weavers also put on a display of looms, works in progress and finished woven items. The Waiuku Spinners and Weavers have been in existence for over 40 years and have a robust membership. Regular meetings are held in Waiuku and Pukekohe with weavers also meeting in Otaua. Members add to their involvement with spinning, knitting weaving crochet and dyeing with twice yearly retreats and visits to other creative fibre groups. See Notices section of the Breeze for contact details.

Jenni releases debut single Local singer-songwriter Jenni Smith is set to release her debut single on 5 March. Jenni describes the song, titled ‘Make It or Break It’ as being about a relationship that comes to a pause. “Feelings aren’t fading, but they also aren’t growing.” She says listeners have called it a relatable relationship song. An ex-Waiuku College student, Jenni is now in her second year towards a Popular Music degree, has enjoyed numerous accolades over the past several years for her original music and engaging stage performance. She was the New Zealand Country Music Association’s

Summer Breeze colouring competition winners

Sophie Humberstone

Georgia McDonald

Joshua Carnell

Alexis Collins

PAGE 5

Entertainer of the Year Awards’ Songwriter of the Year in 2018, and took out the runner-up spot in 2020. The single will be available for pre-order and purchase on Bandcamp and Spotify.

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QUIZ NIGHT

Every fortnight - Tuesday night

BLOOD DONORS

Monday 29 March - 12pm - 6pm

FRIDAY NIGHT IS:

BRENDHAN LOVEGROVE FRIDAY 12 MARCH 2021 Winner of the 2015 NZ Comedy Guild Award for Best Male Comedian.

Kicking off the evening with live music 6.30pm – 8pm. Then introducing one of NZ’s Top Stand Up Comedians BRENDHAN LOVEGROVE at 8pm…followed by more live music!! Tickets: Meal/Show $35pp Show only $15pp

MARCH MADNESS

HEART ATTACK BURGER $32pp Tuesday night only Eat it all and go into the draw to win a $100 bar tab at the end of the month!

Christine Rupp, Chair Counties Power Consumer Trust

This is an introduction to Counties Power Consumer Trust which holds the shares on behalf of all Counties Power consumers. The Trust was formed 25 years ago and has five trustees who are elected on a rotational basis. As Chair of the Trust, my plan is to update you with snippets of information regarding Counties Power, the Trust and electricity in general. The Trustees appoint the Directors of Counties Power and oversee the Company for the benefit and on behalf of the Consumers. Bob Arvidson was the first Chair of the Trust and was instrumental in the formation of Energy Trusts from the previous local Franklin Electric Power Board. Bob was determined that the “Power would remain with the people” and not be sold off to corporates or become another government entity. Some Trustees experience in the electricity field spans over twenty years (including myself), so we’ve seen many changes overtime. The current Trustees all have business backgrounds and contribute widely in a variety of community activities. We all follow Bob’s mantra that ‘the power must stay with the people who reside in the Trust area’. Recently Counties Power opened the state of art substation at Pokeno. This will meet the demands of the growing area in industrial, commercial and residential. This project has been recognised for its innovation and is a finalist in the New Zealand Energy Awards in the Network Initiative category to be announced early March. The Pokeno community were consulted over the project and invited to an open day to view the substation before it went live. Lots of fun was had by all and there was great feedback to Counties Power. See our video on the Counties Power website. https://www.countiespower.com/watch-us A tertiary education scholarship through First Foundation was set up in Bob Arvidson name. First Foundation believes that all young people should have the opportunity to achieve their dreams, irrespective of socio-economic status. The first scholarship awarded in 2018 went to Sophia Chen from Pukekohe High School and this has proved an excellent partnership for both parties. Sophia is in her third year of Bio-medical

Engineering and Psychology at Auckland University and a real asset to Counties Power. Counties Power for this scholarship provides funding and work experience for four years. The 2020 Scholarship was awarded by Counties Power to Isabella Coughlan from Pukekohe High School. It was a privilege to attend Isabella’s Scholarship presentation with Judy Nicholl, Chief Executive of Counties Power. It was heart-warming to hear the stories of past Sophia Chen at work graduates who attribute their success to First Foundation. If any businesses are interested to become sponsors, please email me chair@countiespowerconsumertrust.co.nz and I will put you in contact with their CEO Kirk Sargent. All trustees, Alan Eyes, Phil Beston, Don Thompson, David Spratt and myself, are proud of Counties Power initiatives, its employees and the achievements of the company. As future initiatives unfold we will keep you informed - so watch this space.

At the awards ceremony: Christine Rupp (Trust Chair), Isabella Coughlan and Judy Nicholl, (Counties Power Chief Executive)

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY

LYNLEY & DION

RESTAURANT

Power for the People

Kids under the age of 11 eat free off the kids menu with a paying member.

per person

Saturday - Seafood special

Mudlarks are going electric This year Waiuku Mudlarks are clearing in the waterway that runs between the Waiuku Golf Course and Hyland Place. Mudlark Malcolm Hair has been enjoying the advantages of electric with his new Stihl Battery saw. “There is no messing round with making up fuel mix” remarked Malcolm, “and its powerful motor is ideal for mangrove clearing.” “It’s almost silent,” said Mudlark Chairman Ian Scobie, “and there is no smoke or smell.” Mudlarks work under a consent that comprises an area of over 70ha of mangroves, all without going outside The Needles.

They fell the trees, cut into lengths, and stack into bundles. When the tides are right, they take the bundles up to the Waiuku wharf, where they are chipped up into fertile mulch. Waiuku people have been noticing the remarkable increase in bird life around the estuary since clearing of the mangroves began. Waiuku Mudlarks are a group of mostly retired men and women who have now completed the clearance of many tonnes of mangroves from Tamakae Estuary, and are now working up behind Golf Course. “As well as benefitting the community, this project is keeping me fit” said Mudlark Secretary Tony Ogilvie.

Malcolm Hair cuts up mangroves

MARCH 2021

WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ

Library hosts former Polish exile’s story On 3 December 2020, Waiuku Library hosted a very special event as a part of family history talks. Speaker Józef Jagiello shared with Waiuku community his remarkable life story.

ózef Jagiello is the only survivor of his family exiled among thousands of others from Poland to Siberia during WWII. He is one of the 733 Polish children, mostly orphans, who arrived here in 1944 and became the very first NZ refugees, known as Pahiatua Children. He lives in Waiuku with his wife Joy. His book “One Man’s Odyssey” is available to borrow at the library. His talk was recorded and will be available soon in Auckland Libraries Oral History audio records for everyone to listen to. “One Man’s Odyssey” by Józef Jagiello I am pretty sure every book lover can indicate almost immediately one book that have a special place in their heart. The reasons for this could be many, but different to any of us. Sometimes, the subject may be a clue, or the way narratives are conducted, or a favorite character who seems familiar. This book is very close to my heart, because of its main character, Józef Jagiello who was born in

Poland, my homeland. Have you heard about Pahiatua Children? A group of 733 Polish children, mostly orphans has arrived at New Zealand in 1944. They became the very first New Zealand refugees. During WWII, after Germany and Russia invaded Poland in 1939, more than 1,700,000 Poles were exiled to Siberia to work in labour camps. They lived there in unbelievably hard conditions. Thousands died from hunger and emaciation. Among them was Józef Jagiello, a little five year old boy, who was probably too young to fully understand what was happening around him. He somehow survived the horrors of Siberia. The rest of his family were not so lucky. If you like history, you will find this true story remarkable. Józef will take you on an incredible journey to his past and will share with you all his experience in a quest on finding his identity. You will cry with him and laugh with him as well as learning what happened on his journey. Some

of you would probably be able to recognize familiar places, names or realities of everyday life, as this book is, at some point, a mirror of New Zealand society from the 1940s to 1990s. This book is truly one man’s Odyssey. A beautiful, touching and encouraging reflection on someone’s life. WWII took everything from Józef - his parents, beloved grandma, his childhood, roots and identity. But there is one thing which was stronger than the power of war, the invincible spirit of this Polish Highlander. Spirit which helped him finally find his identity and happiness in New Zealand.

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Auckland’s recovery budget

Have your say Auckland Council’s 10-year Budget for 2021-2031, the Recovery Budget, is now open for public consultation, giving Aucklanders the opportunity to have their say. Auckland’s Recovery Budget will increase the council’s total capital investment from $26 billion to $31 billion over the next ten years to deliver infrastructure for transport, housing, water and within the city’s communities, helping to stimulate jobs and the economy. It will respond to the impacts of climate change, protect the environment, and continue to provide essential and key services to Aucklanders. The budget also sets out council’s commitment to prudent management of finances and a continued focus on savings to manage the loss of council income from COVID-19, with cumulative losses projected to reach around $1 billion by 2024. Mayor Phil Goff encourages Aucklanders to have their say on the Recovery Budget. “Until Monday 22 March, we’ll be asking Aucklanders have until Monday 22 March to give feedback on the proposed 10-year Budget. Council needs to know what’s important to rate payers and how it should be paid for – to have your say visit akhaveyoursay. nz/recoverybudget. “The Recovery Budget will play

a vital role in helping Auckland recover from the massive economic damage caused by COVID-19, which is estimated to reach around $1 billion by 2024,” he says. “We also need to continue investing in the critical infrastructure, services and facilities Auckland needs to be a world-class, internationally competitive city, while responding to the challenges of climate change and population growth.” Finance and Performance Committee Chair, Councillor Desley Simpson continues: “While we are continuing to focus on a very high savings target of $90 million as well as providing value for money to Aucklandersdoing more with less - we need to find a balance that enables us to provide much-needed investment in our aging infrastructure so that our city continues to be a great place to live, visit, and do business.” Following consultation, all feedback will be considered and our 10-Year Budget 2021-2031 is due to be adopted in adopted in June 2021. Decisions will be communicated once the budget is adopted and a summary report will be available on the council’s website.

Aerial survey of the electricity network countiespower.com An aerial survey of the electricity network will be undertaken by a contractor for network owner Counties Power in the following areas:

• Onewhero/Pukekawa/Port Waikato/Waikaretu area • Puni/Buckland/Aka Aka/Mauku/Glenbrook/Pukeoware area • Awhitu Peninsula

March 2021 countiespower.com app.countiespower.com facebook.com/countiespower

High resolution imagery of the top of power poles will be taken by a low flying helicopter so safety and replacement assessments can be made. The public are encouraged to remove animals from paddocks with power poles and/or move them into a secure location. Privately owned service lines are not being surveyed. For more information on expected dates for your area go to: countiespower.com/news or facebook.com/countiespower or call 0800 100 202. Please note dates may change due to weather conditions.

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MARCH 2021

MONTHLY NEWS AND EVENTS FROM THE WAIUKU BUSINESS & DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

WWW.WAIUKUTOWN.CO.NZ

NEW WORLD DELIVERS Jeremy Lamb, owner of Waiuku New World, gathered his team together late Tuesday a�ernoon in prepara�on of a massive order and how they could achieve this in Covid alert level 3.

was fantas�c to see everyone being in it together.” Loreen Shields, Opera�ons Manager said “Jeremy took a great lead by loading his vehicle and having trailers from Mitre 10 ready. He also personally assisted with delivery to the community of Port Waikato where his sense of community took himself away from his store at a crucial �me.” We are incredibly proud of him as well as our team to be able to deliver this to the community of Port Waikato and the Nga� Tamaoho Trust in collabora�on with Manukau police.

WAIUKU BUSINESS & DEVELOPMENT MONTHLY NEWS UPDATE Hi everyone, Well, didn’t this last lock down illustrate just how vulnerable we are to this virus and how things can change in a heartbeat. I have to say It is deﬁnitely challenging trying to plan events and promo�ons on behalf of the WB&DA at the moment. I must commend the businesses for keeping a brave face and ini�a�ng all necessary protocol and systems so quickly in order to trade safely in accordance with government regula�ons. I also really want to thank the community for playing their part and for those that are really going out of their way to help support local retailers through these very trying �mes. I know local businesses are humbled by the support you are showing them. We are now focusing on the Steel n Wheels event which we are endeavouring to bring to the town on 9 May (Mother’s Day) covid-19 dependant, of course. The entertainment and a�rac�ons are currently being conﬁrmed and we are hoping

to bring some exci�ng new exhibits for you all to enjoy come May. The Informa�on Center has reopened a�er the level 3 scare and its business as usual. This valuable service that helps promote tourism and informa�on support is run by a group of amazing volunteers that give up their valuable �me to man the centre. If you would like to volunteer for a couple of hours a week, please let us know. The JP services at the centre have also resumed and available to the public every Wednesday from 11.30am to 1.30pm. (no appointment necessary). Stay safe and be kind everyone.

Sharlene Druyven Waiuku Town Centre Manager

↑ Jeremy Lamb with a member of Manukau Police and volunteers working to unpack the delivery at Port Waikato.

↑

The mission was to supply 140 care packages to the community of Port Waikato with households there caught between the covid level borders. They certainly proved they were up to the challenge. Jeremy said, “We acted quickly by posi�oning team members to cope with the volume of the order and assist the police volunteers with packing. Our butchery minced 420kg of beef on site and we also managed to get the freshest supply of vegetables direct from Pukekohe growers yesterday morning. It

Packages being organised at Waiuku New World base.

Franklin local grants Franklin Local Grant, Round Two 20/21 is now open for submissions and will close at 10pm on Friday 26 March 2021. The types of projects funded with this grant can fall under the following categories: • Arts • Community • Environment • Events • Heritage • Sports and recrea�on Condi�ons around the grant include a minimum applica�on of $2000 and the project must occur a�er the 1 June 2021. Priori�es and exclusions for this fund can be found in the Franklin Local Board Grants Programme 2020/2021 document. For more informa�on head to the Auckland Council website and search “Franklin Local Board Grants.”

MARCH 2021

WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ

Report a Wildflower maintenance problem online Beauty

PAGE 9

WB&DA MEMBER PROFILES

I wanted to alert you to a new repor�ng system Council now have in place. Many of you may have tried to report problems through the Auckland Council call centre in the past only to experience long waits to talk with someone to get the job logged. Council have now launched “report a problem” site which is so quick and easy to complete. You can upload a photo of the issue you are repor�ng if you wish or just type in the fault and they will even ask if you want text or email conﬁrma�on of the repair works progress. This can be used for everything from roading, environmental, missing signage, blocked toilets to damaged footpaths. Pre�y much all Council responsibility and asset issues or faults can be logged here. It only takes a couple of minutes to complete so please use it to get issues in and around your areas repaired or reported. https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/report-problem

We have our community clinic on 10 March, 7pm at the Waiuku Civic Centre. Here we will be asking for your feedback on the Long-Term Plan (LTP). Due to covid-19, Council’s coﬀers have taken a huge hit and that equates to deferring of works, rate increase, infrastructure projects cancelled etc. They also want your feedback on water quality, environmental issues and investment at regional and community levels to name a few. These will aﬀect everyone, so your feedback is really important. If you are unable to a�end you can always visit the Council website, learn about it and submit your feedback that way. This is a 10-year plan so really import for you to put your views forward. Consulta�on is open from 22 Feb to 22 March https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/ about-the-10-year-budget Sharlene Druyven Franklin Local Board/Waiuku ward representative

Your skin is a reflec�on of your life. It reflects the quality of your diet, lifestyle and wellbeing. What you apply topically is important, but true skin transforma�on is only possible when we work from within. Hi, I’m Ruth from Wildflower Beauty, a bou�que beauty salon situated in the Waiuku Business Park. I have been in the beauty industry for 20+ years and I am devoted to women and wellness by offering holis�c skin care, skin coaching and beauty therapy. Feedback from my client Tracy says “a�er many years of suffering with acne and needing to wear a thick layer of makeup, I am now able to wear no makeup at all by choice.” Our Slow Beauty Facials provide an intensive boost for your skin using the botanical Janesce skincare range. Using powerful, organic plant extracts, Janesce facials are an�-ageing, hydra�ng and nourishing for skin. Therapeu�c skin massage, warm compresses and fragrant botanical oils make these sensory facials a beau�ful treat for the soul as well as the skin. Also offering relaxing and rejuvena�ng body massage, alongside waxing, and lash �n�ng and stocking Bestow Beauty supplements, a beau�ful range of organic su-

WAIUKU HARBOUR CRUISE 2 HOURS As the boat pulls away from the wharf the colonial co�ages on Tamakae Reserve disappear only to reappear as the boat leisurely meanders up the winding Waiuku River. Next passengers peek in on the iconic Waitangi Falls, cruise past the NZ Steel Mill - imposing yet with it’s own strange beauty and pause at a lively li�le bird

The WB&DA support and advocate for local businesses to help drive economic growth in our town and surrounding areas. Chairperson Julie Powell

Treasurer Sherilyn Fretton

09 235 9219

027 569 2235

Secretary Jeremy Lamb

Matthew Murphy

09 236 5050

matthew.murphy@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Lisa-Marie Anderson

Angela Wilson

021 280 0881

021 125 5730

Darren Wilson

Gareth Manning

0275 637 968

027 546 1327

Town Centre Manager Sharlene Druyven 021 0827 5763

Town Centre Manager Assistant Harriet Beaton 09 235 6231

sunset@ps.gen.nz

WAIUKU NEW WORLD

MIKE PERO MORTGAGES & FINANCE sherilyn.fretton@mikepero.co.nz

WAIUKU WARD

021 198 0424

jeremy.lamb@nw.co.nz

ST JOHN

lmanderson@xtra.co.nz

WAIUKU ITM

darren@waiukuitm.co.nz

waiukutownmanager@gmail.com

Wildflower Beauty

RATAHI Cruises

THIS TEAM WORKS FOR YOU

SUNSET SURF & TURF

per-food blends, recipes and rituals to nourish skin from within. To make an appointment Ph/Txt 021 0321638. I look forward to treating you in salon.

COCKY’S CORNER angiewilson55@outlook.com

MUNTED JANDAL

gareth.manning@bluescopesteel.com

waiukuatcma@gmail.com

sanctuary. On the return there are lovely vistas of the Awhitu Peninsula and the kids are invited to visit the captain. Stories are told at Waiuku’s historic Sandspit and all of this is experienced against the theatre created by other par�cipants on the water. It’s an ambient, fun, �meless two hours on the water. SCENIC DISCOVERY CRUISE 6 HOURS This day trip which departs from Te Toro (10mins North of Waiuku) and Waiau Pa (10mins from Kingseat) is a fully diﬀerent cruise with its variety in experiences and sense of adventure. The day begins with transferring from the je�y to the Ratahi in a stable ﬂat bo�omed tender. She sails up the length of the Awhitu Peninsula past the Awhitu Regional Park and the bays and beaches. Rounding

Armon Real Estate Introducing Stanley & Barbara Armon. In 2007 we discovered the Awhitu Peninsula and purchased a sec�on which was part of a coastal subdivision in Big Bay. Over the years, numerous trips have been made making improvements, all which have enabled us to redeﬁne our future and to make the big decision to sell up the city home and ‘shoehorn’ ourselves late last year into what we have developed up to this point of �me. It is our inten�on to become ac�ve members within the community of Waiuku/Awhitu Peninsula. We have enjoyed over 27 marke�ng and selling property with Barfoot & Thompson and have sold proper�es in many of Auckland’s suburbs in every price range. We come to the Peninsula as Residen�al, Rural and Lifestyle specialists and look forward to mee�ng you. Our point of diﬀerence is our vast experience, our innova�ve approach to marke�ng, supported with our personalised unique marke�ng material. We have marvelled over the years at the

raw beauty of the Peninsula and to this end have taken numerous photos some of which can be viewed in our video “Passionate about the Peninsula”. It was produced to give residents something which they could be proud of and send oﬀ to their friends. To access this, go to www.loveyourloca�on.co.nz. We also have a comprehensive sec�on covering the Awhitu Peninsula and Waiuku and if you are a business owner in this area, we would be happy to include a link on this page on a reciprocal basis on your website. Please contact us on 021 723 177 or at www.barfoot.co.nz/s.armon. We look forward to mee�ng you.

There is something utterly charming about steaming on a vintage boat. Imagination is spurred as one thinks of the people who have been before, sat on the very same seats and created their own memories, time wound back. the top of the Manukau Heads, there is compe��on to see the Manukau Lighthouse ﬁrst. The boat then travels close enough to the treacherous Manukau Bar to experience responsible excitement before heading over to the serene plunging cliﬀ faces of the Huia coast, soaking up its pris�ne rugged beauty. Occasionally there is a personal encounter with the orca pods that some�mes feed and play there. The boat drops anchor for lunch onboard at Cornwallis, and the opportunity to once again board the tender and land on the beach. From there, there is a walk to the McLachlan monument and the opportunity to swim and explore, or stay and watch the ac�on from the boat. Once everyone is exhausted the boat gently steams it’s way back. Bring your camera, your binocu-

lars and all the �me in the world For more sailing times and further information please check out our Facebook Page Ratahi Cruises or contact us on 0211332944 AUTUMN CRUISES WAIUKU HARBOUR CRUISE - 2 HOURS Sat 13 Mar. Departs 11.05am Sun 14 Mar. Departs 11.40am Sat 27 Mar. Departs 9.50am $27 Adult $12 Child GOLDCARD HOLDERS CRUISE Tue 2 Mar. Depart 1.10pm Fri 12 Mar. Depart 10.25am Mon 29 Mar. Depart 11.20am Mon 12 Apr. Depart 10.10am. Tue 13 Apr Departs 10.45 Wed 14 Apr. Departs 11.15 $23 Adult SCENIC DISCOVERY CRUISE - 6 HOURS Mon 5 April- Easter Monday $65 Adult $27 Child More sailing times listed on our Facebook page.

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MARCH 2021

ROTARY CLUB OF WAIUKU Waiuku Rotary began more than half a century ago, and the group has made an enormous contribution to the community since. Here we outline some of this work, and introduce you to some of the key local personalities who have both shaped Waiuku Rotary in the past, and intend to guide it into the future. A modest bunch of generous individuals tirelessly working away in the background, Waiuku Rotary’s major challenge is recruitment of members, and by highlighting some of the wonderful work the group has done and continues to do, we hope to introduce you - no matter your age or stage of life - to an opportunity for friendship and fulfilment, one of which you may not have even been aware was available.

Waiuku sisters create Rotary history STORY TIFFANY BROWN

Involvement with Rotary has run in the family for current president, 22 year-old Georgia Kendall. Her grandfather Kevan Lawrence was a past president and keen member of the group. In fact, it was family duty that saw Georgia initially getting involved. Driving Poppa to and from meetings to give Nana a break, and to spend more time with him, Georgia soon found herself under Rotary’s spell. “I joined as an associate member because I loved the club camaraderie, the members’ genuine interest in improving our community and the satisfaction of hands-on fundraising, then seeing the direct positive impact it had on our small town.” Graduating from AUT at the end of 2018 with a degree in human resources, employment relations and management, Georgia now works for New Zealand Police in the Counties

Manukau Youth Services team. Georgia’s elder sister Hanna had previously taken on the presidency role, handing over the reins to Georgia in August 2020. “I can’t say I ever intended to take over presidency of the Club, however, with the ageing population and changing circumstances our members faced I felt it was my place to step up and I am so far enjoying the challenge.” Georgia is grateful for the continued assistance and mentorship from her sister Hanna as she finds her feet in the role. “I would also like to mention that Nancy Rae has been an enormous help in keeping the club running and my head above water. My presidency hasn’t been the smoothest or most conventional, with covid and lockdowns meaning many of our meetings and fundraisers needed to be either cancelled or postponed.” Neither the lucrative Sunset Coast Walk nor the Rotary Secondhand Book Fair fundraising event is going ahead in 2021 amid the uncertainty of covid-19, but Club meetings are back on track now with fortnightly meetings, and Georgia hopes to reinstate fundraising activity in the coming year. Georgia, whose hobbies

include working out at WestCoast Fitness, taking her dogs for walks at Karioitahi Beach and reading a good book, gets a thrill out of the results of the Club’s work, but also enjoys the ongoing interaction with members and visiting speakers. “I thoroughly enjoy having dinner and just chatting with a group of people from all different walks of life, people that I otherwise wouldn’t have met.” Guest speakers sometimes speak at Rotary meetings on various topics which Georgia finds fascinating and educational. “As someone from a totally different generation to those who were around when Rotary was thriving, I was surprised and delighted to learn about the enormity of what the club and members had already achieved and it made me proud knowing I would be a part of that moving forward.” With member numbers decreasing due to age, retirement, sickness and relocation, the club’s biggest challenge at the moment is shoring up its membership. “I think we struggle to get new members partly because there just isn’t enough awareness about what we actually do and who we are.” Georgia also thinks younger people don’t

seem as willing to give freely of their time and energy. “Times have changed and lives move more quickly, people are so busy – but it just takes a small amount of time to make a big difference.” Waiuku Rotary is a modest group who quietly work in the background of our community to support worthwhile causes, but the time may have come to make some noise about their achievements in order to swell their numbers. Georgia’s main goal for the year is to grow the membership by at least ten people. She appeals to any interested local person to get in contact, or come along to a meeting and have a chat with the members. “We’re looking for people who want to come and help fundraise at events like coastal walks, book fairs, the odd sausage sizzle, for the sole benefit of giving back to the community through projects, schools, surf lifesaving and so on, and making some friends along the way.” And for the younger generations, it’s not all hard slog for no payoff. “If I’m being a bit cheeky,” says Georgia, “It’s also great for networking and a huge bonus on your CV!”

SUICIDE PREVENTION

Buy your ticket from the following outlets: Waiuku Deed Office Products Sunset Surf & Turf Kentish Hotel Pukekohe H R Fisken & Sons Music Mania

Hanna, Kevan (90) and Georgia at the 2019 Sunset Coast Walk

MARCH 2021

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ROTARY CLUB OF WAIUKU

The Woodward family legacy: Waiuku Rotary Marshall Woodward was a young teenager when his father, Frank Woodward, became the first president of Waiuku Rotary. “I was away at boarding school when they started on the Sandspit Esplanade,” said Marshall. “I’d come home for weekends, spend days down there, and get in the way.” The construction, which involved the development of an existing wall into a concreted path with seating and barbecues for the community to enjoy, took Frank away from the family’s dairy farm operation for long stretches at a time. “When Dad was down there, I’d have to go and get the cows in and start the milking. He’d get home whenever they knocked off, but sometimes I’d have already finished by the time he was back. That’s just the way it was in those days.” Frank had been away in World War II, and along with many of the men of his generation, was motivated to get involved in the community on their return. “They’d gone through a lot,” said Marshall. “They all liked the fellowship clubs like Rotary offered.” Marshall remembers the group doing more a lot more besides the community projects like the Sandspit Esplanade and Centennial Park playground. “One time Dad was in hospital, so they came out and tidied up the farm. They would help out in the community when anyone was struggling.” Despite his father’s legacy, Marshall didn’t become a Rotarian himself at first, because Wednesday night’s Rotary meetings clashed with his late wife Anne and

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS & ACHIEVEMENTS SINCE 1962 1962-63 Two barbecues were built at Te Toro Beach domain and Rotary families enjoyed a picnic to follow. 1963-64 Rotarians installed playground equipment at Centennial Park on Kitchener Road, including an old tractor, slide and swings.

organised for sale to NZ Steel which garnered a further $500 plus for the school. 1979-80 “The old people’s outing was a great success, and was much enjoyed by those who participated. Credit must go to the wives for the splendid way they put on the afternoon tea.” 1981-82 Rotary organised a St.John Ambulance building appeal. 1982-83 David Lange was guest speaker at a Rotary meeting and was “well received by a large attendance of Rotarians and visitors”.

Marshall Woodward receiving the service award for services to netball umpiring.

daughters’ weekly swimming club night. “Dad always wanted me to join, but he never pushed it.” Sadly, Frank had passed away before he saw Marshall follow in his footsteps. Marshall has always enjoyed being involved in community fundraising events like the Sunset Coast Walk, and Anne, a book lover, was instrumental in setting up the book fair fundraiser. Marshall’s highlight over the years has been the supply of several defibrillators in the community. “One at the Waiuku Police, Waiuku Golf Club, Waiuku College, Waiuku Football and Cricket Club, and most importantly the 24-hour publicly-available one in Waiuku township. This was something which my late wife and I felt strongly about, and used some of the funds raised from the Book Fair, which she worked so hard at.” Marshall is not sure what the answer is to the problem of garnering membership and volunteers. “Our generation is so different, and one of the problems we have is that we

tend to see things from our Rotarian perspective.” For instance, Rotary’s guidelines used to demand that meetings were held once a week, and members were required to attend a minimum number of meetings. Rotary International’s rules also dictate that funds raised, once costs are covered, can only be used in charitable ways. This can hamper efforts to compete in the charitable sector with other organisations who can allocate budget to marketing and advertising, and therefore be more visible and recognisable to the public. In recent times, however, Rotary has allowed the group more flexibility, such as meeting only once a fortnight to help minimise the cost of hall hire and providing a meal. Marshall hopes more flexibility like this, along with a younger perspective thanks to Hanna and Georgia Kendall’s presidencies, could help to attract more local involvement. ut, and used some of the funds raised from the Book Fair, which she worked so hard at.”

Modern Rotary: aims and activities STORY TIFFANY BROWN

Nancy Rae, Kate Bensemann (RYLA Leadership Attendee)

With a presence in 220 countries, all Rotary clubs look to support their communities in various ways. Waiuku Rotary’s goals align with the framework of both their Rotary District 9920, which covers the wider Auckland region and a number of South Pacific Islands, as well as that of Rotary International. Waiuku Rotary’s Secretary/Treasurer, and long-term resident, Nancy Rae, said the objectives for Waiuku include fostering involvement and helping to fund both community and youth to achieve their goals. This may involve helping individual students who need financial assistance to further their education in diverse areas such as drama, sport, scouting, surf lifesaving, yachting or other pursuits. Community support includes local schools, Waiuku

Family Support, the Waiuku Foodbank and various other local clubs and organisations. Nancy said, “We are committed to supporting and paying for young folk from age 25 to 30 plus to apply and attend a yearly RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership in Action) which is a really worthwhile week-long course.” The successful leadership training course enlists the help of the NZ Army and motivational speakers. The club also pays for up to four Waiuku College students per year to attend a RYPEN (Rotary Youth Programme of Enrichment) course, another form of leadership training. Nancy’s late husband Don was an active Rotarian for many years. One highlight during his involvement with the club was a trip to Fiji in the early 2000s. “A group from Waiuku Rotary Club went up and donated their labour to building shelters and cooking units and rebuilding within a village. Don said the goodwill amongst the Fijian locals and the friendships built between all those that went was incredible. Lots of hard work and lots to think about.” The group’s major challenge is recruiting new members, and spreading the message that Rotary exists for anyone, any age, any gender. As long as you’re prepared to commit yourselves to membership, the opportunity exists through Rotary to improve your community and the world while having fun doing it. “The people we are looking for to join are people who like to get their teeth into something and work towards it.” The official Rotary email address is: waiuku.rotary@gmail.com Or email Nancy Rae at: danrae@ps.gen.nz

1965-66 Picnic tables and seats were built and set in place at the ‘Wharf Site’. 1966-67 Rotary combined with other service clubs like Lions and Jaycees, and together raised $2300 for the Waiuku swimming pool and ran a week-long Festival of Arts. In that same year, “A Rotary exchange student from British Columbia proved to be most unsuitable and had to be sent home ahead of schedule.” 1968-69 Plans were developed for Karioitahi beach reserve as a recreation area for the people of the Franklin county. Action items included improving access to the beach, providing more parking space, developing picnic areas and forming a surf lifesaving club and headquarters. Rotary, Lions, and Jaycees also co-operated in the erection of a ‘Welcome to Waiuku’ sign at entrance to the town, and a time capsule containing current Rotary information was sealed in the base. 1969-70 A Sandspit play area was developed, and repairs made to the barbecues. “A suitable old tractor was found, stripped and painted, and after a memorable trip through the town one evening was immobilized and cemented into the play area.” A Karioitahi working bee involved almost every member of Waiuku Rotary over two Saturdays, whereupon around 50 shrubs were planted, concrete barbecues and several picnic seats were set up, rubbish bins supplied, and an “impressive stop bank made from old telephone poles”. 1971-72 In this, the golden jubilee year for Rotary, the Waiuku Club achieved its target of $3000 towards the district’s goal of establishing the National Children’s Health Foundation. Picnic tables were also obtained and placed on the reclaimed land behind Queen Street, and the club carried out renovations and clean-up work on the marae at Tahuna Pa. 1972-73 The whole club was involved in “many weekends’ work” laying concrete to extend the Waiuku Museum. 1975-76 Project “COJAK” took place, meaning “Come, Observe, and Join Any Klub”. Held at Waiuku College, the project involved displays and activities from the 57 local sports and hobby clubs, church groups, Girl Guides, Scouts and so on. It was, “A very worthwhile project that generated a large amount of public interest.” 1978-79 Rotary organised a community concert at Waiuku College and raised in excess of $350 to assist View Road Primary School in establishing a suitable room for children with learning difficulties. A scrap steel collection was also

1985-86 A covering over the verandah at the Franklin Memorial Hospital was constructed for the benefit of the elderly. 1987-88 Members restored the old Maioro School building and re-sited it to its current site at the Waiuku Museum.

1988 Rotary combined with other Waiuku community groups and individuals to raise $60,000 to allow local woman Barbara Hull to have a life-saving liver transplant in Australia. 1990-91 A mobile phone was purchased and presented to the community constable. 1995-96 The procurement of a multimedia computer for the Waiuku Library. 2004-05 The first ‘Sunset Coast Fun Walk’ was held, a maximum 10 km walk over farmland on the Awhitu Peninsula. The event was extremely well organized and well supported by all club members, and raised over $3000. 2005-06 $3000 was donated to Waiuku Museum for audio-visual equipment to display an excellent video about Waiuku and its history. The first secondhand book fair was held, raising over $2000 in about six hours. 2006-07 For Rotary Awareness Week members held a free sausage sizzle in Waiuku’s main street. The annual Sunset Coast walk attracted over 500 participants and raised $7000. Together with grants the club presented Kariaotahi Surf Lifesaving Club with a donation of $10,000. 2007-08 The annual book fair was upgraded to a two-day event and raised about $8000. The Sunset Coast walk raised over $5000, despite “unseasonable weather”. 2008-09 The book fair went from strength-to-strength, this year raising nearly $9000, while the Sunset Coast walk, this year a great day with perfect weather and a large turnout, allowed for a total donation of $8000 for Waiuku Scouts and Guides. Seven members of the club traveled to Fiji to help with the building of a community village. The group also visited Kulukulu School in Sigatoka which had been the recipient of support for a number of years. “They were made very welcome and were pleased to see the progress the school had made.”

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MARCH 2021

ROTARY CLUB OF WAIUKU

Waiuku Rotary more than 60 years of service STORY TIFFANY BROWN

Waiuku’s branch of Rotary International has been operating for over sixty years, and their stewards have included many stalwart local families; in some cases, generation upon generation of them. The group kicked off in 1960 following sufficient interest expressed in setting up a local chapter of the international movement. Formed in 1905 by Chicago lawyer Paul Harris, Rotary International’s initial aims were to unite professionals with diverse backgrounds for the exchange of ideas and to form meaningful, lifelong friendships. Over the years the vision became increasingly humanitarian, and today Rotary International describes itself as ‘a global network of 1.2 million neighbours, friends, leaders and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change’. The 35,000+ clubs around the globe work to promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water, sanitation and hygiene, save mothers and children, support education and grow local economies. Local dairy farmer Frank Woodward was the first president of Waiuku Rotary, appointed along with six other committee members at the first directors’ meeting in April 1960. Sub-committees were then set up, admission to Rotary International gained and a charter presented by 26 local professional men. In their first year the group was a flurry of activity. To begin, they undertook the construction of a concrete esplanade and two barbecues at Sandspit Reserve. The esplanade was ‘eight chains in length’ and estimated to have cost around £800. The group also pitched in to tidy several gardens belonging to senior members of the community no longer able to tend their own, raised funds for an accessible vehicle for a physically disabled boy, networked with other Rotarians, provided vocational advice to local students and surveyed the district to ascer-

tain the immediate needs of various local and charitable organisations. For the ensuing sixty-plus years, the group has worked tirelessly to provide support not only to the local community but to causes both national and around the globe. Monetary and goods donations have been sent to nations in the South Pacific, Indonesia and India for ongoing support or disaster relief, and countless overseas exchange students and Rotarians have been hosted. The group has sponsored a range of youth activities, rewarded and incentivised youth leadership, been instrumental in providing and orchestrating youth vocational guidance, supported the elderly, and run defensive driving courses, small business seminars and paid for and installed many defibrillators around the area. Reviewing the timeline of historical Rotary highlights can make for quaint reading. A stalwart modern feminist may baulk at the repetitious mention of ‘members and wives’, and the nods to the culinary efforts of said wives in providing seemingly endless nourishing teas, picnics and spreads. In 1989 Rotary International voted to admit women into their clubs, with future president Frank J. Devlyn reminding his fellows, “The world of 1989 is very different to the world of 1905. I sincerely believe that Rotary has to adapt itself to a changing world.” Within a year, 20,000 women had joined the movement and today, about 23% of Rotarians are women, and Jennifer E. Jones is set to assume the role of Rotary International President on 1 July 2022.

Kevan Lawrence embraces the golden age of Rotary STORY TIFFANY BROWN

Kevan Lawrence recently celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by family and friends. Notable for being one of only two mayors of Waiuku, locals may also recognise Kevan for the park he gave his name to. Kevan Lawrence Park is the green space and playground area on the King Street side of the library and community centre building, while Kevan’s mayoral predecessor, Dr Sam Whiteside, is immortalised with his name linked with the local swimming pool. When local government reform saw Waiuku absorbed into the wider Franklin District, the mayoralty was scrapped. For a nonagenarian, Kevan is robust in health but a little too hardof-hearing for the phone, so his wife Barbara acted as go-between for our interview. Kevan’s involvement with Rotary began in 1972, and Barbara said the year he served as president was undoubtedly a highlight for him. Kevan himself cited friendships as his highlight from Rotary fellowship over the years. “He loved meeting up with the guys every week,” said Barbara. “It was a really good way for him to relax, because he was so busy with the mayoralty, going along to the weekly meetings was a really relaxing thing for him.” Not that Kevan didn’t work hard on countless Rotary projects. While Barbara didn’t officially join up with Rotary, preferring to ‘leave Kevan to it’, she was equally involved with exchange students and programmes. “He loved the work we did with the Rotary exchange students. We had a lot of the students over the years, and that was great.” A strong theme running through the Rotary story is family involvement, with spouses involved in projects, and Rotarians running

down through generations. The Lawrence family is a perfect example of this family-wide phenomenon, with Kevan and Barbara’s grand daughters Hanna and Georgia holding the presidency last year and this year respectively. “We’re so proud of them. They’ve done so well,” said Barbara. “It’s been a joy for Kevan to see that.” Thinking of the challenges now facing modern Rotary, Barbara felt people’s irregular working hours and general high degree of preoccupations were to blame for the difficulty in finding times to suit for meetings, and attracting the appropriate level of commitment. “Like many organisations, it’s struggling. If they could just get a few enthusiastic people, they could do lots of things. It’s just finding those enthusiastic people.” With Georgia leading the charge, perhaps the enthusiasm Waiuku Rotary needs for another golden age is already here. Kevan is well-known for being involved in community projects. Here he tried his luck at hand milking a cow at a Waiuku Museum live open day in the 1980s.

ROTARY CLUB OF WAIUKU We need your Membership & Support to survive. Our next Meeting is at The Civic Centre (next to Library) Wednesday 3rd March 6pm for 6.30pm (home by 8pm) If you are interested in joining, come along and see what we do, all ages welcome! The presentation of the cheque to Karioatahi Surf Club (half cost of their all purpose vehicle )

Rotarians take a break while constructing the Sandspit Reserve esplanade and barbecues, 1961

For a general info and get together with Members, please come along on the 3rd March 6pm or the next meeting on March 17th. Or contact: Georgia Kendall 0220106366 Bradley Quinn 02102907653 Nancy Rae 021511788

MARCH 2021

WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ

Driver aids Modern cars are coming out with so many new and wonderful driver aids to assist with the control of the vehicle. These features are way better at figuring out what is happening, and do that faster, than most (if not all) humans could ever imagine. I have put together an explanation of some of the driver aids that cars are now coming out with. ANTILOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS) Antilock braking systems control braking force to prevent the tyres from skidding under heavy braking or when braking in slippery conditions. Some ABS systems cause the brake pedal to pulse or shudder when activated and although this may feel disconcerting, braking effort must be maintained if the situation requires a quick stop. TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEMS (TCS) Traction control systems stop the driving

wheels spinning by reducing engine power or temporarily applying the brakes. This allows the car to accelerate smoothly, even on slippery surfaces. ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) Electronic stability control detects if a vehicle is not responding correctly to driver steering input. The system selectively applies the brakes to individual wheels or changing engine power, ESC helps the driver to maintain their intended direction. EMERGENCY BRAKE ASSIST (EBA) Emergency brake assist detects an emergency brake application. It provides emergency braking assistance and automatically increases the force being applied to the brakes to minimise the stopping distance. It is also known as “Brake Assist System” (BAS). These features are amazing, however good driver technique still needs to be employed.

You, the driver cannot rely solely on the vehicle computers to drive for you. BRAKING TECHNIQUE Correct braking is done in two stages, first put light pressure on the brake pedal and pause (set up the brakes, ease them on), then progressively apply the necessary braking pressure (squeeze). Two-stage braking (ease and squeeze) improves braking effectiveness, reduces the likelihood of skidding and provides better control. Harsh or excessive braking pressure may cause skidding and a loss of control, particularly on wet or gravel roads. Even with driver assist features, this will shorten your stopping distance. Phillip Powell Professional Driver/Trainer/Assessor

STORY DAVID BLACK

raham Hamilton’s ancestors settled on the Awhitu Peninsula more than 150 years ago and until 20 years ago he farmed on his share of the family land, just north of Waimatuku/Hamilton’s Gap. Graham had always wanted to build a sports car so when he found an abandoned project in a shed in Mount Wellington ten years ago his retirement project began. But Graham’s love affair with motorcars goes back long before that. While he was still farming in 1960, Graham bought Molly Turner’s 1957 Hillman Minx sedan. He joined the Auckland Car Club and the Minx’s first outing was the hill climb on Chamberlain Road, Bombay. Graham took out first prize in the under 1500cc class. In 1961 Graham bought another Hillman Minx, modified with flattop pistons (to increase the compression ratio), which became another competitive car placing first on three occasions and winning the Pukekohe Car Club speed cup in 1965. Graham sold the Hillman in 1967 but the following year, together with mechanic Bryan Richardson, Graham bought an old Volkswagen body from Hamilton, towed it back to the farm and set up a mid-mounted 300cc Mk III Ford Zephyr marine engine using the original Volk-

swagen transmission and differential. He ran the VW for a year, winning several hill climbs and sold it in 1969. After that farm and family became priorities until he retired. Graham’s current sports car is a beautiful Lotus replica. He found it as a partially completed project based on a Chevron kitset, one of a number supplied by Onehunga engineer Evan Frey. These cars were designed as replicas of the famous English Lotus seven. Lotus Cars was a British automotive company based in Norfolk, founded by the designer Colin Chapman in 1948. If imitation is flattery then Mr Chapman, who died in 1982, should have been well pleased because builders all over the world have manufactured replicas of his beautiful cars including as many as 20 makers in New Zealand. Chevron was one of these. Graham’s car uses the robust General Motors suspension which could be salvaged from British Viva and Australian Torana vehicles and remains easily serviceable with an abundance of aftermarket spare parts still available. The engine is the well-regarded Toyota RG with a Yamaha built cylinder head and twin 45mm side draft carburettors which came to prominence in the high performing Toyota Celica.

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Like the Ford Mustang, the Celica concept was to create a sports car by attaching a coupe body over the chassis and mechanicals from a high-volume sedan – more or less exactly what Graham has done, following a practice adopted by many famous marques since the beginning of the motor industry. The Celica name derives from the Latin word “coeliac” meaning “celestial” no doubt a star in the eyes of its American designer David Stollery III. Using a Toyota motor in a Lotus is actually quite authentic – many Lotus cars were supplied with Toyota engines and it’s not too hard to believe the rumours that the Lotus Company had influenced the design of these high-performance prime movers. The car was wired by Graham’s son Neil Hamilton, and whilst retaining the original Denso traditional distributor-based ignition system, it uses an on-board computer for control of the rest of the electrical system. The Japanese sold 18RGU motors had a carburettor/catalyst system as an early attempt at emission control. In countries, like the UK where this was not required, finely tuned lean burning carburettors were preferred. This approach has been well implemented by Graham with his twin 45mm Weber type side draft units. The instruments are genuine JAG gauges with imperial calibration. Finally, last October the car was painted in Spirited Green. At this stage there is still only 200 miles on the clock, but Graham is looking forward to many happy hours of motoring in this classic beauty.

The 3 litre VW on the Lees Gully Goldstar hill climb in 1968.

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PAGE 14

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MARCH 2021

Local footballers selected for Māori U16 team

Carpenters & General Hands We are seeking experienced carpenters and motivated general hands who want to progress their career in Construction and be part of a strong team.

STORY TIFFANY BROWN

These roles will suit those with the following attributes;

After three trials that took place last year, two Waiuku College students of Maori descent were recruited to represent their iwi for the under-16 Tamatane Maori football team.

• Experience working on commercial construction sites an advantage • Appropriate trade qualiﬁcation and/or experience • Good communication and organisational skills • Be physically ﬁt, honest and dependable • Motivated and work with purpose • Be a proactive contributor to Health & Safety We pride ourselves on our stringent health and safety process, therefore, pre-employment drug screens and random drug tests are carried out on all of our sites. This is a permanent position offering an immediate start for the right persons and comes at a competitive wage. To apply please contact Blake 0275458969 or email your CV to: admin@summybros.co.nz

Mason Savage (Ngai Te Rangi) and Hamish Rowe (Ngapuhi) are good friends who have both been playing the game for years. The selection saw them represent the North Island/Te Ika a Maui against the South Island/Te Wai Pounamu, in an exciting game at the Rotorua International Stadium on 23 January. The half-time score was 3-1 to the Southlanders, with the Northerners fighting back in the second half to win 4-3. Mason thought it was a great playing and networking opportunity, and hopes to play professional football in the future. Hamish felt increased pride in his Maori heritage as a result of the experience. He hopes to play for the Maori Senior Men’s team/ Nga Tane Whanapoikiri, and for Wellington Phoenix in the future.

Andrew Bayly MP for Port Waikato Port Waikato Electorate Office 7 Wesley St, Pukekohe 09 238 5977 andrew@baylymp.co.nz AndrewBaylyMP

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Peter Nock has recently been appointed as Waiuku Rugby Club’s new prems coach for the 2021 rugby season. Originally from Kerikeri, Northland. Peter has a long list of credits to add to his repertoire of coaching experience. Some of these include, coaching the All Blacks men’s 7s development team, and the New Zealand U18 girls’ 7s team. Peter also coached the Northland 7s for several 7 years, including the Northland Bs, 9and worked1for 4 ten 5 years 2 7 for 6 North3 8 9 7land Rugby2Union. 9 8 3 1 5 7 4 6 Peter was meant to go to Nanjing, 3China 7 3 6 8 9 4 2 5 1 in 2020 to run their 7s pro8gramme, but 8 due 6 3to 4covid 2 1 9 7 5 restric4tions, this was 9 2cancelled. 4 7 5 At3 a1loose 6 8 2end, and with 5 7a desire 1 9 to 6 be8 part 4 3of 2 club, 6a country-based 3 5 rugby 9 1 8 7 Peter 6 2 4 now joins Waiuku prems with a 1 6 1 7 5 4 2 8 9 3 fine-tuned, and experienced coach5ing skill set4and 8 is2fully 6 motivated 3 9 5 1to7

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bring the team to success. When asked how he sees the season going, Peter’s response is strong and simple, “We start together from here, improve together as a wolf pack, and move forward as better human beings.” Peter wants to see a strong connection for Waiuku rugby players and their community. This includes a relationship with Waiuku College, and its rugby culture, to ensure the 8 players are drawn into their younger local club 7 1and 6 their 9 2passion 3 8 4for5the game 5 continues to grow. 2 9 6 4 8 3 1 7 Currently residing in Stonefields, 8 3 4 7 5 1 9 6 2 Mt Wellington, Peter is keen to work 9 1 area 8 3if he 7 can 2 5find4 in the 6 Waiuku 4 8 5 2 6 9 7 3 1 work in his plastering and painting 3 trade. 7 2 “I’m 4 1thrilled 5 6 9 8 to be coaching 9 4 7 here, 5 8 I6love1 2 3 it, and I can’t wait for the 2 6 3 1 7 4 5 8 9 season to begin,” says 1 5 8 3 9 2 4 7 6 Peter.

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Waipipi bowls Waiuku Bowling Club kindly offered the use of their greens for the Waipipi Bowling Club monthly tournament which was sponsored by Peninsula Accounting Services, on Thursday 18 February with visiting teams from Buckland, Clarks Beach, Patumahoe, Pukekohe and Waiuku. A great day of bowls had by all players. The winning Team was Ted Doell, Grahame Anderson and Pat Steger from Waipipi, second was Andrea Williams, Peter Sinclair and Bette Holmes from Waiuku and third was Mike Stone, Mike Moffat and John Hancy from Buckland.

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Waiuku sponsors toward success In the last three years, Waiuku Rugby Club have embarked on a sponsorship programme, introducing players, primarily from Fiji into the club. STORY KEELY MUIR

Seen as father figures for the new recruits, Vuga Tagicakibau, and Tevita (Jhu) Naburu, are two players who have been part of the programme since it started. They both give credit and thanks to Waiuku, for the opportunities and support that they have been given. Vuga is captain of the Counties Manukau 7s team and has travelled the world playing in 7s tournaments. He was also the coach of the Waiuku prems last season. Tevita, has represented Counties Manukau seniors, and the Highlanders. “Waiuku is a very welcoming club, and has made us feel at home. That’s why we always show up for training and give the games our all,” says Vuga. John Kennedy and Maurice Brighouse are the sponsorship mentors for the club. Their role is to ensure the boys have accommodation, with the club paying a portion of the rent, including power and water. They also ensure the boys have full time jobs, and their general health and well-being is taken care of. “We check in with their employers too, making sure they are happy with their employee’s performance,” says Maurice. “We are extremely grateful to employers and home owners, for giving these boys, and our club a chance to succeed.” “Waiuku is seen as being a bit out on

John Kennedy, Maurice Brighouse, Vuga Tagicakibau, Aca Lavealasiga, Apo Derenalagi, Tevita (Jhu) Nabura, Api Sailo, Isaac Fanueli (Photo Keely Muir)

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Api Sailo and Apo Derenelagi (Photo Andrew Skinner)

a limb, so it can be very hard to attract players to Waiuku,” says Maurice. “These boys are friendly, modest and humble, with amazing rugby skills. They are a huge asset to the club; we are very lucky to have them.” The latest recruits to join Vuga and Jhu are, Aca Lavealasiga, Apo Derenalagi, Api Sailo and Isaac Fanueli. Apo and Api, are both from Wesley College. Apo was in the Counties Manukau wider premier squad, chiefs U20 training squad, NZ U20 training squad, and his brother is the captain of the Fijian 7s team. The club also has Samoan twins, Sue and Fui Asomua. Sue is a member of

the Counties Manukau senior team. “Fui didn’t make it in, but in my opinion should have,” says Maurice. “We have a great mixture of cultures in our club, who all enjoy each other’s company, and there’s room for more.” The club is always on the lookout for more players, and can find accommodation for them, they also have a list of employers looking for workers. Historically, Waiuku is known for its strength in the forward pack. “With the injection of these boys, we are showing we have pretty awesome backs as well,” say Maurice. Sounds like this Waiuku Rugby Premier season, is definitely one to keep your eye on.

Women racing ahead Proving that women can do anything, Greta Brown and her predominantly female team of office holders, are lifting the sport and the atmosphere at Waiuku Dirt Track Club. Club president Greta believes women can do anything, particularly if it’s something they are passionate about. “I saw room to make positive changes in the running of the club. The opportunity to create a more family friendly atmosphere, and to get the community more involved,” she said. Greta has been with the club for six years, and moved from spectator to racer, and secretary to president. She is supported in her roll by fellow female officers, Tina Challenor as treasurer, and Carmen Pieterse as secretary. All alongside one male office holder, Bobby Thomas who is Vice President. “It’s hard work dealing with women,” Bobby laughs. “Just kidding, it’s all good. Everything is going really well, considering the effects of covid this season. We have great numbers, and great spectators, I couldn’t be happier.” The office holders are also supported by a committee of around 11, who are made up of new members to the club, and longtime members. “The committee are a passionate and amazing bunch of people.

All are committed to the continuous improvement of the club, with an emphasis on community,” says Greta. The club was originally established in 1982, and moved to its current position in Aka Aka in 2009. The club has a reputation for being one of the best around, but is not the only club in a male dominated sport to enlist a female president. Waiheke Dirt Track Club have also placed a female in their highest place of leadership. “It goes to show you that we can do this stuff. Dirt track doesn’t have to be an old boys club, run by just blokes.” Greta adds, “What does it matter anyway, I have a whole team behind me, and we make the right decisions together.” One of the many changes Greta has made is a more professional image to the advertising for the club, utilising social

STORY KEELY MUIR

media and drawing in the community. “We’ve gained a lot of new members this year and our juniors class has grown to 14 new this season, and they are the future of our club. We provide a safe and fun environment for them to learn, and a great atmosphere for the spectators,” says Greta. Juniors can start racing from the age of twelve with their own car, or one driven by a family member. A parent or other driver will then mentor them to become the best drivers they can be. The rest of the family can enjoy their view from the hill, their picnic, and the humorous commentator. “It’s a cheap day’s entertainment, like a small version of Western Springs,” says Greta.

SAND TO MUD FUN RUN/WALK

18 April 2021

Get training and watch this space for more details next month!

8 kilometres

Photo: Andrew Skinner

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