PEOPLE OF OUR COMMUNITY
THE FUTURE OF WHITEBAIT
Awhitu’s Anna McNaughton is one of our fabulous local earth guardians. We caught up with her to find out what makes her tick and what ticks her off.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) may be changing whitebait fishing regulations with public consultations closing 2 March 2020. Stu Muir shares his thoughts.
VOLUME 1, EDITION 2
B r e eze WEST
PAGE 11
PAGE 9
FRANKLIN
A breath of fresh air for West Franklin
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
PH: 09 235 7835
THURSDAY, 20 FEBRUARY 2020
W WWW.WAIUKUTOWN.CO.NZ
I really hope you all know by now who we are and what we do. We are a small Association who operate out of 2 Queen Street, Waiuku under Auckland Council’s Business Improvement District (BID) Programme. There are 48 BIDs in Auckland and like all of them we are funded through an economic development targeted rate that the local businesses pay on their rates bill annually. These funds are used to support businesses in our area. In a nutshell we support economic development. In other words we are trying to encourage new businesses to the area, support the businesses we currently have and encourage visitors to the town which we do through events and tourism. Waiuku is very different than the likes of the Pukekohe BID wherein we don’t have the department stores or the number of businesses and services they do.We need to find alternative and creative ways to bring people into the town to spend, but just as importantly we need to encourage and educate our locals to support local businesses and why it is advantageous for them to do so and not shop elsewhere which, sadly many of our locals do regularly. We understand it is not only cost driven but also convenience sometimes. I know that many locals work out of town and find it easier to shop in their lunch hours. I realise many that have to travel outside the area for activities ie. dance practice etc and while they wait, they’ll fill the car, do the grocery shopping, buy a gift or two. All these funds are being invested outside our community.
All we are hoping and asking you to do is consider supporting locally before you take your money out of town and out of the community. Many people comment about the great work the WB&DA do, about how fantastic our events are, and that for a town of our size we are so lucky. Not many other towns have events like ours. I’m talking about The Waiuku Steel ‘n’ Wheels Festival, Blast to the Past and our successful Christmas Parade. Did you know they are all directly funded and sponsored mainly by local businesses wanting to give back to their community? Pretty cool eh? They are doing this in the hope that locals will value the service they provide and support them. This year the WB&DA will again be supporting businesses through our website and online directory, mentoring opportunities, Mix n Mingles, networking, training and various workshops. If there are any businesses that would like to join the WB&DA and take advantage of these opportunities, please let me know.
Waiuku Town Centre Manager Sharlene Druyven
hen you think of an Information Centre you might think it is just for tourists but The Waiuku Information Centre has so much to offer us locals too. It is run by an amazing team of volunteers who have a wealth of knowledge to share about Waiuku and surrounding areas. They can help you find businesses, give you information about public transport as well as upcoming events, clubs and so much more. There is also a Justice of the Peace service held every Wednesday from 11:30am – 1:30pm. No booking is required as appointments are on a first come, first serve basis.
... not just for tourists We are happy to report that our little Centre has had a revamp thanks to Franklin Local Board and their Place Making Grant. It is now more user friendly for tourists and the community alike. We have introduced new technology with the addition of a computer for searching the Waiuku Town website and a brand new flat screen for showcasing local businesses and points of interest from the area. The Information Centre is a great place to visit if you want ideas on what to do around Waiuku but also further a field with maps and brochures covering the whole country. This centre is now the only manned Information Centre in Auckland apart from one
in the Auckland CBD. The WB&DA receive no direct funding from Council for this facility but we believe it is a vital asset servicing over 500 visitors per month during the summer season. We are open Tuesday – Sunday from 10 – 4 in summer and 10 – 3 in winter. This service couldn’t happen without our volunteers giving up their precious time. If you would like to join them and are passionate about the local area, we would really like to hear from you. Shifts are short (3 hours long) and there is a computer available to use whilst you are working, or you can simply bring down your knitting and a good book.
New chair excited to add her spin to WB&DA Julie Powell has been elected Chairperson of the Waiuku Business & Development Association. The owner of Sunset Surf & Turf has been involved with the Association for around eight years and previously held the office of secretary. The WB&DA’s small committee of 8 plus the Local Board representative. They support Town Centre Manager Sharlene Druyven and Town Centre Manager Assistant Harriet Beaton to advocate for local businesses while encouraging new business and growing existing sectors. This strategy includes the coordination of local events such as Steel & Wheels, the popular Blast to the Past fireworks display and the annual Christmas parade.
FREE MOVIE
Julie says she plans to “put her heart and soul” into the role and along with other initiatives introduce new technology to help modernise the organisation and make systems work smarter. Her tasks will include chairing meetings and ensuring committee members follow through on their respective tasks. She also plans to bring a proactive approach to decision-making. “We’re a great team with so many different skill sets that we can bring to the table, but we all have our own businesses, and we get busy. This is very much voluntary. I see my role mainly to work alongside Sharlene and Harriet, making sure they have everything they need to achieve our objectives and
helping out when I can.” One of the WB&DA’s focus for 2020 is to promote tourism to the area, highlighting Waiuku’s new bike/ walking trails and emphasising the local leisure opportunities. “Families can come out here, enjoy the trails and have some lunch – make a day of it.” Julie says she’s noticed an increase in both visitors and new residents, and praises Sharlene for her passion and commitment to the promotion of Waiuku.
Waiuku is lucky enough to be hosting another Movie in the Park and this year it is Aquaman! It is all kicking off at Rugby Park on Saturday the 7 March from 6pm. There will be local fundraisers including Surf Life Saving Kariaotahi selling food and setting up awesome activities to raise money for the brand new surf life saving premises at the beach. There will also be boerewors, coffee, ice cream and popcorn being sold by local vendors and fundraisers. For the kids there will be free activities including face-painting, bumper balls, a photo booth and live music for the whole family to enjoy. All of this before the movie starts at 8:10pm. So make sure you save the date, come down and have some fun whilst supporting your local community and surf life saving team.
High goal polocrosse The inaugural High Goal Polocrosse held at the Waiuku Rugby Park over Waitangi weekend was a huge success. Kicking off with a cocktail party on Thursday evening, two action packed days of polocrosse and a market day on Saturday, saw the community come out in force.
W
inner of the Junior Challenge: Pro-Dosa BOOST with Equissage a close runner up. Winner of the Andrew Fowler Racing High Goal Cup: Holyoake Construction with G.J. Gardner Homes two points behind in second position. Winner of the Lucky Horse Shoe Trophy Ebbett Pukekohe, with P & I Pascoe runner up. International wild cards Jannie Steencamp (South
Beau Moore form the winning team heading to give his 1 the ball Africa), Jimmy Grills (Australia), and BJ Thomas (Perth Australia), have all said they will be here for this event next year. A huge thank you to the Waiuku Rugby Club, Counties Polocrosse Club, Auckland Council, Franklin Local Board and The Waiuku Business & Development (WB&DA) for all the work they they put into making this inaugural event a success. Stay posted for the High Goal Polocrosse dates next year.
Local Board Grants He Tūkunga putea ā-rohe i Franklin / About the Franklin Local Grant
A local grant is generally available once or twice a year and is one of two type types of local board grants your project or activity may be eligible for. When you apply for this grant, your project must align with the Franklin Local Grant outcomes and funding priorities 2019/2020. Types of projects funded by the grant: arts, community, environment, events, heritage, sports and recreation. Grant value, $2000+, applications open from February to March 2020. Grant round two, applications open 17 Feb - 27 March 2020, decision due 26 May 2020, projects to start after 01 June 2020. For more information, see Franklin local grants programme at: http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
This team works for you 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
SUNSET SURF & TURF
MIKE PERO MORTGAGES & FINANCE
09 235 9219
sunset@ps.gen.nz
Matthew Murphy WAIUKU WARD
027 569 2235
sherilyn.fretton@mikepero.co.nz
Secretary Samara Edgecombe
Samantha Graham
WAIUKU MITRE 10
021 105 3162
027 666 2713
FRAMED HAIR framedhair@gmail.com
theedgecombes@hotmail.com
Kirsten Bracewell
Sharlene Druyven WAIUKU WARD ST JOHN
021 243 2121
021 280 0881
lmanderson@xtra.co.nz
Lynette Hunter
Pip Wells
PATERSON & BURN EYECARE
021 246 8738
027 945 3410
BARFOOT & THOMPSON p.wells@barfoot.co.nz
lynette.hunter@ patersonburn.co.nz
Town Centre Manager Sharlene Druyven
Town Centre Manager Assistant Harriet Beaton
021 0827 5763
09 235 6231
waiukutownmanager@gmail.com
that Waiuku has a voice at Board level. Franklin Local Board have begun consultation with communities to get feedback from you all and to engage community communication. This will enable us to prepare this terms Franklin Local Board Plan. In fact, this month we have invited the full Franklin Local Board on a tour of the Waiuku Ward to see for themselves the issues that need addressing. We will be holding
I hope you all had a lovely break over the festive season. Firstly, I would like to say a huge congratulations to Bill Deed and his team on the launch of the new Breeze newspaper. I am sure it will be an informative read and
quarterly workshops in the Waiuku Library Community Room to give you all the chance to meet us face to face and present your ideas and concerns. We welcome and encourage you all to come and participate. I have already been out in the community as much as I can meeting many of you. I am looking forward to meeting more of you and will do my best to represent you at Franklin Board level. Thank you.
wish them well going forward. The Waiuku Business & Development Association are supporting the paper by putting in two pages of articles relating to the local businesses and communities on a monthly basis. I really hope you enjoy the read.
Lisa-Marie Anderson
QUEENIE BLOOMS queenieblooms@ queeenieblooms.co.nz
Congratulations on such a wonderful effort to create a local paper that our small community really needs and will value. It is communications such as this that bring us all together. For those of you who haven’t yet met me, my name is Matthew Murphy and I was privileged to be voted as your Waiuku Ward local representative on the Franklin Board. I am working alongside Sharlene to make sure
waiukuatcma@gmail.com
J.M. McFayden Ironmonger James McFayden initially started in business in Patumahoe and in 1886 came to Waiuku as blacksmith. The smith was located on Queen Street, opposite what is now the ASB Bank. In addition to the smith he also set up an ironmongery store. In 1902 he is mentioned in the Cyclopedia of New Zealand and it is mentioned that he is also the owner of the finest Billiard Room in Waiuku, however no further details are given. James McFayden was one of the founders of the Waiuku Masonic Lodge. *It was in Waiuku where he became one of the most noteworthy men of the district. In addition to his business of ironmongery and blacksmithing, he owns some of the finest properties in and around Waiuku, and also in the King Country. Mr. McFadyen was the third son of the late Mr. Hugh McFadyen, who arrived by the ship “Mariner” at Dunedin in 1849. * Information obtained from nzetc.victoria.ac.nz (The cyclopedia of New Zealand) Auckland District.
MANUKAU HARBOUR CRUISES
SAILING DATES Harbour Cruise Sailings leave from Waiuku Sun 8 March 9:40am Sat 14 March 2:15pm Sun 15 March 3:00pm Sat 28 March 1:00pm Scenic Cruise: Sailings leave from Te Toro Sat 29 Feb 8.30am Sun 7 March 8.30am Sat 21 March 8.30am Bookings 0272 689 482 cleangreen@xtra.co.nz
VOLUME 1, EDITION 2
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
B r e eze WEST
FRANKLIN
A breath of fresh air for West Franklin PH: 09 235 7835
THURSDAY, 20 FEBRUARY 2020
Sharp eyes keen mind
The secret to a long life STORY AND PHOTOS TIFFANY BROWN /// tiffany@westfranklinbreeze.nz
Waiuku resident Reece Rogers turned 104 years old on 15 February. He has a family of five children including two sons with first wife Isabel and a stepson and two stepdaughters with second wife Judith. Reece also has 13 grandchildren and great-grandchildren “too numerous to count”. When asked what the secret is to living such a long life, Reece smiled and said, “Give everything a try.” Reece was an electrician in the South Island during his working years. Skilled in essential services Reece was manpowered during World War II which meant he was required to stay home and work here rather than enlisting in the military. Working the length and breadth of the South Island all week away from home didn’t always feel like a reprieve however. Working conditions were tough and the area he covered was vast. He had weekends off, but as he explained, “By the time you got the train home it felt like you were only there half a day and then you had to pack up and set off again.” Following his retirement at the age of 64 Reece and Isabel embarked on a new adventure when they began deer farming
at Upper Moutere. Reece had always been partial to trout fishing, and to shooting both duck and clay pigeon. He recalled how times have changed, saying, “When we were youngsters or in our early teens, you could walk down the street with a gun under your arm. Nobody noticed or said anything.” After Isabel passed away, Reece was living in Howick and feeling isolated. He began to volunteer at a nearby Citizens Advice Bureau. There he met Judith, and the pair married, both in their seventies. The couple later moved to the one and a quarter acre Colombo Road property where Reece still lives today. “I was 87,” he joked. “It was time to downsize.” Reece and Judith set to work clearing the back section of their large property, planting native trees including rimu and kauri and creating extensive flower and vegetable beds. Reece has enjoyed living in West Franklin. “You walk down the street, everyone looks you in the eye. In the shops, everyone’s got something to say. In the big city, people just buzz you by.” Originally from Christchurch Reece shares several other traits with the Cantabrian believed to be New Zealand’s oldest
Reece blowing out his candles at his 104th birthday celebrations. Photo: Bryan Lay Yee.
man, 108 year old Ron Hermann. The pair both have a great sense of humour, a ready smile, and an active mind. Reece does the crossword every day, plays Scrabble and enjoys mindful colouring. He loves a game at the pool table which takes pride of place in his home. Reece was a keen and prize-winning athlete in his youth. He enjoyed cross country running with the local harriers club, and in his later years played golf. He was a member of the Awhitu Golf Club, where an early surprise birthday celebration was held for him on 31 January, attended by around a dozen of his offspring and their families. Despite being more often chair-bound these days he was fairly steady on his feet while posing on the back lawn with his live-in companion, granddaughter Gail Rogers, in front of a pohutukawa tree believed to be around 300 years old. Gail held the Marietta Coney watercolour painting of the tree she commissioned to celebrate his birthday. Gail thinks the secret to her grandfather’s
longevity is that he’s very young at heart. “He’s always kept up with the times. In his 90s he took a computer class for seniors.” Asked how he felt when he received the Queen’s congratulatory card on his 100th birthday, Reece said with a twinkle in his eye, “Just another day at the office”.
Do you need to be switched on? Call Sarah and talk to her about the Breeze switching you on and out shining your competitors. Putting your company logo here on the front page will do that for you. Call Sarah on
09 2357835 or email: sales@westfranklinbreeze.nz
Breeze
Breeze PAGE 2
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020
COMMENTS AND OPINIONS
Harbour forum report frustrates
B r e eze WEST
FRANKLIN
In April 2011, just a few months after the establishment of Auckland Council and the Local Boards, it occurred to me that with one unitary council responsible for all aspects of local governance around the entire edge of the Manukau Harbour, there existed an unprecedented opportunity to play our part in improving the health of the harbour.
Second issue in your hands The first issue has come out and have we had many accolades, comments and even gifts. Thank you to everyone who has communicated and made our efforts worthwhile. I think the key point that has come out is that West Frankliners have a strong passion to have their own newspaper. The formation of the Breeze is to fit that passion and to be a communication medium within our region.
News leads and subjects to cover
copy of the Breeze on the allotted time let us know. Emails only, to circulation@ westfranklinbreeze.nz We will pass the information onto the company contracted to undertake our deliveries with a hope to achieve a good and consistent coverage.
Advertising
We have had several news leads within the last few weeks since the first Breeze hit the streets, but we need more. Sometimes we won’t be able to cover events, but we will always welcome a report and a photo to support. We would also need your contact phone and email address. Our email contacts are shown below or you can bring into Action Office Products Depot, 16 Bowen Street, Waiuku We do reserve the right to publish or not publish any submitted story.
Needless to say, unless we get advertising, we will not be able to continue. If you would be interested in taking a spot whether it is a listing in the Find it Fast trades and services directory or a full display advertisement, we would welcome your support. Find it Fast advertisements only cost $49.95 + GST per month. Contact sales@ westfranklinbreeze.nz and Sarah will help you with your questions or requirements. Let Sarah prepare a special package for you.
Deliveries
Faster than I anticipated, the Breeze has a website, and a big thank you to my friend who has helped us out. You can also take a link from the website to https:// issuu.com/westfranklinbreeze/docs/full_issue where you can view the full paper online. I hope you enjoy the second edition of the Breeze; read well and please support our advertisers because as I said earlier they make it all happen.
Delivery of a newspaper is a complicated and expensive item. Apart from the printing and artwork preparation, delivery is the next biggest expense. However, it is often not easy to achieve a satisfactory delivery. There are many individuals involved from young people delivering within the township to rural mail contractors. The delivery date is to be at the end of the third week of each month: Thursdays for rural deliveries, and Friday and Saturday for the urban area. If you do not receive your
Website:
Bill Deed Publisher
My vision was to try to learn from the seemingly successful and effective Hauraki Gulf Forum and create a collaboration between the seven local boards, Iwi and those organisations and groups reliant on or dedicated to the harbour. Draft terms of reference were drawn up and a meeting convened in Onehunga to gauge support for the establishment of the Manukau Harbour Forum. Passionate and enthusiastic Waiuku local board rep Jill Naysmith and I attended and from that meeting the MHF was born. So after nine years it is disappointing and frustrating to read a report released late last year saying the MHF has been
less than effective. Jill, and more recently Alan Cole, have been frustrated as internal politics on the forum and a lack of support from the governing body, and council organization, has resulted in a lot of talk and little action. Jill started the call when chairing the forum from 2013 to 2016 for recognition as a more formal council body. She envisaged taking it from a simple advisory type committee with no real decision making ability or budget, to what is called a joint committee, involving local boards, governing body members, iwi and others. To have some grunt and able to influence more effectively what happens in, on and
around this absolute gem of a natural environment. As a board we started last term to question the value of our continued involvement in the MHF. We chose to not increase our level of investment as requested instead of abandoning it, but determined that we have an obligation to try to change things from within. The newly elected local board are yet to determine where we go but I am confident the damning report will sting and stiffen our resolve. I believe the opportunities envisaged back in 2011 still exist. Fortunately, a southern governing body member has the three harbour portfolio and his support will be critical in improving the
status of the forum. Having governing body members on the group, potentially in leadership roles alongside local boards should create a far more effective group. Watercare and council’s healthy waters department have been, at times, incredibly supportive but again, hamstrung by a lack of committed budget from the governing body. This is possibly because the MHF has not been as good as it could have been in agreeing on what it should be doing and getting in front of the governing body to fight for our harbour. This term we need to fight.
Introducing Sarah Lamb Sarah Lamb has been in the publishing and newspaper industry for many years. She started working for AGM Publishing Ltd in Kingsland, Auckland “many moons ago” to quote her. She then moved on to APN Holdings Ltd for a short period before moving to Waiuku. When the front of office position became vacant at Waiuku & Districts Post after Ngaire Deed was involved in an accident, she was successful in gaining the position. Sarah made the job her own and was in charge of meeting and greeting everyone who came through the door. The position was primarily clerical, but she was also
Contact us
in charge of administering the classified advertising section of the paper. She became a valuable cog in the small team at the Post and often covered events in the town. She especially enjoyed photographing netball and the Christmas Parade each year. Sarah was with the Post for around seven years. When Bill Deed approached her and asked if she was interested in becoming involved in his venture to start a new publication for West Franklin, she jumped at the chance. Sarah has a passion for her community and the newspaper gives her the chance to become more involved in keeping people aware of what is happening in the area. It also enhances her other interests in design, photography and print, so expect to hear more from a very vibrant and enthusiastic Sarah in the future.
Breeze
West Franklin Breeze • 6,200 copies delivered to Waiuku and the four rural districts. Published by Breeze Publications, Waiuku
Editorial:
Tiffany Brown: tiffany@westfranklinbreeze.nz Kylie Hall: kylie@westfranklinbreeze.nz
Advertising Sales:
Sarah Lamb: sales@westfranklinbreeze.nz
Drop in Agents:
Action Office Products Depot, 16 Bowen Street, Waiuku. Ph: 09 235 7835
Publishers:
Bill & Ngaire Deed: bill@westfranklinbreeze.nz • ngaire@westfranklinbreeze.nz
Distribution:
circulation@westfranlinbreeze.nz
B r e eze WEST
FRANKLIN
y a d h t r i B y p Hap to Seanna
and Lakisha,
WAIUKU MUSEUM SOCIETY INC
provides access to and assistance with family history enquiries. Contact 021 0544 727 for appointments and assistance.
who both turn
5
Serving all districts in Franklin. Mark Graham and his caring team will guide your family.
in
February. 82 Queen St • Waiuku Ph: 09 235 7072
Funerals and Memorials Ph 235 8380 • www.grahamsfunerals.co.nz
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020
PAGE 3
Andrew Bayly MP for Hunua The next clinic for constituents will be in Waiuku on Monday 16 March, 10am-noon St Andrews Centre, 85 Queen St, Waiuku To make an appointment please contact the Hunua electorate office 7 Wesley St, Pukekohe 09 238 5976
Authorised by Andrew Bayly MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.
Mudlarks hard at work in the Waiuku basin. Photo: Tony Ogilvie
Waiuku Mudlarks remove
mangrove stumps
SALE
9 Days only
At last there are no more dangerous stumps appearing out of the mud in the area near Hartman House, Band Rotunda, Fire Station, Museum, and wharf. Recently the Mudlarks had their second day STORY // TONY OGILVIE // tonyogilvie@hotmail.com of stump removal, and now the area is clear.
COCKY RECKONS
Dave Gribble shows how the Mudlarks remove the mangrove stumps. Photo: Tony Ogilvie
Waiuku wharf area has been plagued for years by a number of mangrove stumps, protruding from the mud and creating a hazard for swimmers, paddlers, and users of all kinds of craft. “These stumps were the result of early attempts by Council of the day, about ten years ago. Contractors were hired to cut the mangrove tops, and instructed to leave a length of stump sticking out of the mud” remarked Dave Gribble, who has been a Mudlark since inception. Not long after that, a group of mostly retired Waiuku residents, with Council’s blessing, started removing mangroves, this time by cutting trunks below surface. They called themselves ‘The Mudlarks’, officially Waiuku Restoration Trust Inc., and have been working ever since. Waiuku Estuary was virtually
Give your motor mower the home it deserves
Spacious one bedroom home • Cosy with rustic exterior • Non slip plywood floor • Room for your garden tools • Extra head space for shelving
Get to Cocky’s Corner for a $50 saving on a Plywood Mower Shed 3.6m x 2.1m Now
3,745
$
00
Normally $
3,79500
Only valid until 31 March 2020
Cocky’s Corner
clear of mangroves up until the 1970s, when a total infestation began, clogging it all, except for the channel. These days, Waiuku residents enjoy a clear view of the estuary, and many more wading and foraging birds have appeared, now that crabs, shellfish, and other life is flourishing. Though Mudlarks always cut trees below the surface, some are still starting to appear. This is because the mud that was gathering in the mangrove forest, is now slowly getting washed away. One day some of the sandy beach areas may reappear. Mudlarks are still active, currently taking out trees along the inlet behind the Golf Course. Mudlarks are always receptive to more volunteers, so if you have the odd morning to spare, bring along your boots, morning tea for social time, and help make progress on this project.
FREE DELIVERY IN THE FRANKLIN AREA
$499
81cm: $299
Free Freight
$469
75cm: $289
$355
$479
55cm: $229
68cm: $279
OC2LITE
Anti-theft double zips & expandable in all sizes
Colours: Off-white, Black, Navy, Turquoise
NZ’s LOWEST PRICE ON SAMSONITE
116 King Street, Pukekohe Phone: 09 238 6352 www.davidmillsluggage.co.nz
At Cocky’s we can CUSTOM BUILD almost anything to your specifications including: SLEEP OUT (LINED - EXYARD)_ 4.2M x 2.4m _________$11,050 A FRAME CHICKEN COOP ___ 2.4m x 1.2m __________ $615 GOAT SHELTER ___________ 1.2m x 1.2m __________ $350 DOG KENNEL & RUN _______ 2.4m x 1.2m __________ $695 KENNEL & RUN (LINED) _____ 2.4m X 1.2m ___________$775 CHOOK SHED ____________ 2.4m x 1.2m __________ $995 IRON GARDEN SHED _______ 2.4m x 1.6m _________ $1,395 IRON GARDEN SHED _______ 3.6m x 1.6m _________ $1,750 AVIARY _________________ 2.4m x 1.2m _________ $1,095 ANIMAL SHELTER _________ 1.8m x 1.5m __________ $615 PLYWOOD MOWER SHED ___ 2.5m x 2.2m _________ $3,125 PLYWOOD MOWER SHED ___ 3.6m x 2.1m _________ $3,795 CHOOK VILLA ____________ 1.2m x 1.2m __________ $780 CHOOK VILLA ____________ 1.8m x 1.2m __________ $895
Call now or pop in for a FREE Quote 123 Queen St. Waiuku | Phone 09 235 9880 | www.cockyscorner.co.nz OPEN: Mon-Fri: 7:30am-5pm | Sat: 8am-1pm HARDWARE, TIMBER & BUILDING SUPPLIES
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020
Photo: St John
PAGE 4
St John doubles ambulance crew STORY TIFFANY BROWN ///
The crew hard at work on the set of the television commercial that was filmed at Waitangi Falls. Photo: Auckland Council
Waitangi Falls on Japanese TV
tiffany@westfranklinbreeze.nz
Ambulance service St John has appointed four additional ambulance officers at their Waiuku branch. The service which was previously run by paid employees on day shift between 6am and 6pm, and volunteers between 6pm and 6am, will now be manned by paid staff around the clock. This is due to St John’s government-funded four-year double crewing initiative which has been gradually introduced across the country and is now in its third year. The scheme puts an end to single-crewed emergency ambulance responses. With two paid ambulance staff in the vehicle at all times, safety and wellbeing of ambulance staff is improved, reducing the likelihood of fatigue, injuries and stress. Patients will be better cared for by receiving clinical care while
en route to hospital if necessary. “We’re thrilled to have ended single crewing in Waiuku. We’ve employed a great team of new, full-time ambulance officers who are making a tangible difference already. We are also pleased to be improving the delivery of our emergency ambulance services to the communities we serve,” says St John Franklin Territory Manager, Lindsay Sattler. St John, a registered charity, seeks the support of New Zealanders through donations and part charges for emergency ambulance services in addition to government help. If you are interested in volunteering for St John call: 0800 ST JOHN.
In the near future Japanese TV viewers will be watching an advertisement filmed at Waiuku’s Waitangi Falls and other Franklin venues.
They cleared litter, swept paths and even added stage make up to fallen trees to enhance the area. Then the Japanese super stars came on set to make the advert. The producers even put signage at the entrance to the road and built a spectator area for the public to watch the filming. Now it is all finished they have restored the reserve back to its original condition, less the rubbish and graffiti.
Franklin Local Board members say that locations in the Board’s area are becoming increasingly popular with film and television because of their remoteness and outstanding natural beauty. Also, 80 percent of any fee generated for the use of a site is returned to the area for a Board to use. Many film crews stay locally while filming is taking place so the benefits to local businesses are real.
Last year, TV3’s crime drama The Gulf featured Kawkawa Bay, Waiti Bay Reserve and Magazine Bay. TVNZ’s The Bad Seed included scenes shot in Karaka and ads for Holden, Subaru, Mercury, NZ Post, Asahi, Hirepool and BP were filmed in the area. During 2019, 24 public place film permits were issued for the Franklin area and the local Board is keen to make the West Franklin area a ‘film friendly’ location.
Popular priest moves on Father Brian Lange of St Anthony’s Catholic Church took his last Waiuku service at the end of January. In 2011 Father Brian Lange arrived in Waiuku to serve as parish priest at St Anthony’s Catholic Church in Kent St. Long before becoming a priest Fr Brian was apprenticed to an Auckland boat building company. This led him to joining his father and brother in Seattle, USA where the family operated a boat building company specialising in wooden boats. Fr Brian spent eighteen years at his trade with sailing as his pastime. Relocating to New Zealand he entered an Auckland seminary where he prepared to study and train for the Catholic priesthood. When newly ordained Fr Brian’s first placement was a city parish but moving to Waiuku was the country parish he preferred. He proved to be a popular priest which the congregation warmed to with his commitment to his faith and his dedication to caring for the sick, the elderly and the needy souls he encountered. Fr Brian’s parish also extended to St Andrew’s parish in Tuakau where the growth of housing in Pokeno means that parish continues to grow. At Matakawau, the Church of the Holy Rosary has a monthly mass with a small congregation that expands with holiday
STORY GAYE ARROWSMITH
makers at Christmas and Easter. Between these three churches Fr Brian had an extensive district to travel around especially when death was near for those suffering illnesses. His caring nature was gratefully received not only by the dying but by their family members. The relationship Fr Brian developed with families was crucial to the preparation of the funerals he conducted for the deceased. For many attendants who were not Catholic his welcoming inclusion was notable. In recent years baptisms and weddings have not kept Fr Brian as busy as the growth in funerals but that is to be expected in an area where early settlers are still represented by their descendants. During the nine years of Fr Brian’s tenure in Waiuku, St Anthony’s parish has joined with other Christian churches hosting faith-sharing ceremonies followed by suppers where everyone could meet and mingle. Fr Brian excelled in listening to and sharing his faith with other denominations. Father Brian will take up a position in his new parish of Warkworth & Puhoi, an area where he grew up and knows well. In the same week St Anthony’s gave a country parish welcome to Fr Gilbert Ramos who has moved from the city.
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020
///
kylie@westfranklinbreeze.nz
With five daughters and a son, most of whom are black belts in Tae Kwon Do, one thing John Kendall never needs to worry about, is bodyguards. With 150 medals between them and numerous international wins, it’s fair to say he’s understandably a proud Dad.
SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE
STORY KYLIE HALL
Summer
SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE •SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE
SALE www.bakersshoes.co.nz
50% OFF HI-HOP FOR INFANTS
lots
more in store... 20% OFF
20% 50% OFF
SKECHERS JANDALS
LADIES FASHION SANDALS
8 KITCHENER RD WAIUKU
PH: 09 235 8507
SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE
A smashing vocation
PAGE 5
SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE •SUMMER SALE • SUMMER SALE John Kendall (right) beams his fabulous smile as he accepts his award. (Photo supplied)
I knew the world was my oyster and we were born in a blessed time, so it was simply a matter of trying lots of different things.�
J
ohn recently had another reason to feel proud, being nominated for, and winning, the Services Award for the Demolition and Asbestos Industry. “The Award is for services to the industry, helping with investigations, supporting other contractors, giving advice to the general public and others in the various trades. It’s also for supporting the NZDAA (NZ Demolition and Asbestos Association) and Worksafe to ensure statutory compliance and safety standards are clearly understood while taking a commonsense cost effective approach to industry,� explains John. Born in the sparkling harbourside township of Rawene in the Hokianga, John was one of eleven children and was schooled in Pukekohe, finishing his final year at Pukekohe High School in 1973. His family still own a large farm on the North-
land coast at Mitimiti. In 1978 John relocated to Waiuku and worked at New Zealand Steel, before moving on to bigger things with the “think big� projects of the 1980s. The move to Waiuku was fortuitous, as it was here that John’s wife Kay (nee Lawrence) was raised. Kay recalls the moment they first met, a classic example of Kiwi romance, “We met at the pub and I thought he looked like trouble!� The rest was history. Of his adopted hometown, John says, “Waiuku has been the best place to raise our family.� John now heads up his own company, Comex, specialising in environmental, asbestos, construction and demolition consultancy. But it was through slogging away at an apprenticeship with Hank Lieshout of Pukekohe Builders, where he gained a taste for smashing things down, in a professional, considered way of course. “I went on to lead the Ward Demolition team as they
carried out the demolition of the Hotel Grand Chancellor (HGC) in Christchurch,� adds John. The tallest hotel in Christchurch, the 28 story HGC building was a victim of the 2010 and 2011 Christchurch earthquakes. It was described by numerous international engineers as one of the most dangerous demolition jobs in the world. For a kid who had no idea of what he wanted to do as a career, he’s gone far. “I knew the world was my oyster and we were born in a blessed time, so it was simply a matter of trying lots of different things.� When John’s not working, you’ll probably catch him at the gym working out with youngest daughter Ruby or fishing up a storm for a feed of kai moana (seafood). And if the fish aren’t biting, you might bump into John while he’s picking up a curry from one of the local Indian takeaways, which he rates as among the very best.
Su�er
FREE MEASURE & QUOTE With summer here, now is the time to replace old tired curtains with new blockout ones.
20% OFF SUNSCREEN AND ROLLER BLINDS
50% OFF VERTICAL BLINDS
Affordable Blinds Contact Bob or Margaret: 09 235 0121, 021 041 3434 E: solleygang@hotmail.com • 2 Tui Place Waiuku www.affordableblinds.net.nz
PAGE 6
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020
Cameras prove their worth in Waiuku In recent weeks Police have been assisted with town centre security camera footage. They have been able to check for leads on crimes committed within the Waiuku town centre, to assist with apprehension of the perpetrators. In the first instance, a male was seriously assaulted outside the Kentish Hotel just before Christmas. The whole incident was caught on camera and a male is now before the court on a serious assault charge. In the second incident some’ out of towners’ committed a rural burglary but drove through town towing a stolen trailer and quad
bike. A male is now before the court on a burglary charge. The cameras are always watching and help to make people accountable for their criminal acts. Waiuku Police Sergeant Graeme Wood said he was pleased that the footage they had seen, resulted in the criminals being apprehended. Waiuku Business and Developments Association chairman Julie Powell says “It is pleasing to note that the town centre cameras are being successful. The association invested heavily to have them installed and they are proving their worth by aiding the Police�. Don Rae playing his favourite harp.
CLASSIFIEDS
WAIUKU PREMIER RUGBY 20TH ANNIVERSARY Friday 29 May 2020 Dinner: $45 per person Saturday 30th May 2020 Marquee, food & refreshments starting 12pm
Game 2:45pm Waiuku Premiers vs Papakura To book your spot email Megan: mbailey0@slingshot.co.nz
Â
THURSDAY NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT
5th
RICK SHIRLEY
12th
LYNLEY AND DION
17th
HENRY CHASE
24th
from 5:30pm until close
25
$
per person
MIKE DERECOURT
MARCH - WHAT’S ON
3rd 6th 10th
Quiz night starts, 7pm Old time dancing 1:30pm - 4pm
28
$
Line dancing evening 6:30pm - 8:30
17th 24th
per person
Quiz night starts, 7pm Line dancing evening 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Saturday - Seafood special
24 MAY 2-5PM
Presented by KRC Enterprises Ltd.
Kim Copedo 027 455 0628
$5 • RESTAURANT OPEN 5PM FOR MEALS
Kids under the age of 11 eat free off the kids menu with a paying adult.
Music filled his days On 2 January Waiuku lost a wellknown community person. Don Rae passed away after suffering a heart attack at his home. Don and his wife Nancy have been well-entrenched in the Waiuku community since 1966. Don and Nancy came to Waiuku when Don was appointed the PE teacher at Waiuku College. Apart from being a very respected teacher by his students, Don was also an influential man in other sports.
Don was reputed as having a strong caning hand, an act that would not be accepted these days! While he was still working at Waiuku College, he and Nancy bought a property in Smith Road and for many years they cropped this land. Disillusionment with his teaching career took Don to New Zealand Steel where he gained employment on the steel floor. It was hard work, and an opportunity came some time later for him to accept a position as a scheduler in the office of the company. Development of their property with glasshouses then happened in 1977 and later Don and Nancy upgraded them to modern insulated plastic houses and pulled Don into full time growing. That spring they produced their first crop of tomatoes for market. But with many highs and lows within this business Don and Nancy sold this property in 1986. At this time the pull of teaching took him back, this time to Rosehill College at Papakura
I took a couple of calls recently from locals complaining about public property being damaged. I totally agree with their frustration about such needless damage that is done to road and
and he stayed there until his retirement at the age of 60 after he had suffered a heart attack. After the heart attack, Don changed his tactic with his activities and he and Nancy spent much time travelling overseas into areas not commonly travelled by most tourists. When his children Bryce and Marin were young, Don taught them how to sail yachts, but this was not his only interest. The family also hosted Malaysian students and this stimulated Don’s interest in Asian style cooking and travel. Don was an active debater during his time as a foundation Jaycee in Waiuku and he thoroughly enjoyed the research and cut and thrust on debating nights. In his early 40s Don became a Rotarian. During his time in Rotary held the office of president and secretary-treasurer several times. He was secretary/treasurer at the time of his death. He was a member of the selection panel for Rotary Group Study Exchange Team and the youth exchange pro-
street signs. But what needs to happen is for the public to call the police if they see this happening or if they know who is responsible. Most of the time it is locals that have a few to many “drinks� on board and decide they will show some street sign how tough they are. All their antics do is cost you money, so don’t tolerate it, report them. With all the good weather
gramme with Australia. He was a Paul Harris Fellow, Don was also for some years a Trustee on the St Andrews Church Trust Board. Music played a huge part in Don’s life. He always had a harmonica in his pocket and Nancy used to be enthralled at his ability to create so much music from such a small instrument. While he was recovering from his heart bypass, Don decided to build several harps. The harp he retained, remained his pride and joy throughout recent years. Later, he decided to study London Guild Theory for piano. He had passed Grades 3, 4 and 5 and was studying for Grade 7 when he had his stroke in 2017. He took lessons in learning the clarinet, and more recently enjoyed playing with the Probus ukulele group. Don also went to Probus sketching classes, singing group and Thai Chi. A man of full community immersion until his final days. Don is survived by his wife Nancy, son Bryce, daughter Maryn and six grandchildren.
we have been having we have not had to many accidents. But when it does rain again be careful the roads will be slick and slippery. You will be okay if you slow down and drive to the conditions. It is not very often the car makes itself fall off the road or crash. It is more often than not operator error. So, take care and drive safely. Cheers Woody
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020
PAGE 7
Prepare to
repair STORY KYLIE HALL
kylie@westfranklinbreeze.nz
The call has gone out. All handy “fixer uppers”, young, old, and in between, are on the wanted list for a new local community initiative – The Repair Café. Believed to have originated in the Netherlands back in 2009, repair cafes provide a place and a space for people to bring their broken appliances, tools, clothing and more to learn how to fix them up. So much waste is occurring with items getting the biff just because a switch no longer works, a favourite shoe has a tear, or maybe a chain keeps falling off a bike, it’s a great time to give a little love back and let your investment live a longer life. A Repair Café is not a drop off centre for your broken bits. It’s a social gathering where together, those with handy knowledge volunteer to teach others how to fix stuff. If parts are needed, those get paid for by the customer as usual. Two cool chics are behind this local project. Caroline Saunders was reading an overseas newspaper and stumbled across an
article about a repair café. “I wondered if there would be any interest here, so popped up a post on Facebook,” says Caroline. Meanwhile, local waste reduction crusader, Sue Wallis of Waiuku Zero Waste, had the same idea some time ago, but there was never enough time in the day to do anything about it. When she saw Caroline’s post, she jumped on board with support. “I then approached the Auckland Repair Café and they passed on to us a helpful ‘how to’ manual,” explains Sue. “It’s a natural fit for Waiuku Zero Waste to be involved and we’re hoping to provide a space for the Repair Café to use free of charge. We’re also keen to set up a Tool Library at a later date.” Less waste is good for the planet but great for the pocket. If we could all learn to do a few repairs, imagine how much money we could save instead of
blowing funds on replacements. In days gone by, fix it skills would be passed down through generations, but that’s not so common in the modern era, so there’s a lot of useful handy skills sitting with our older locals that could be shared. And with technology now playing such a big part in all that we do, there’s bound to be some handy younger folk keen to share what they know too. “We love that this is a community initiative where local people can meet up and work together,” adds Caroline. Sue and Caroline are working on setting up a small organising team and hope to run the first Waiuku Repair Café in April. For now, they’re wanting to hear from all locals that have “fixing” skills that would like to get involved, whether that be electrical, sewing, mechanical, technological, carpentry, upholstery, welding… and the list goes on.
If you’re a handy fixer upper, you’re needed. Text or call Caroline on 021 022 88107 or
email Sue at: contact@waiukuzerowaste.co.nz
Locals with fixer upper knowledge are needed to help these two go getters get people going. Caroline (left) and Sue Photo: Kylie Hall
MEET YOUR
LOCAL LIVESTOCK buyer We would like to welcome Dave Munro to our livestock buying team. He is available to catch up with you and talk through your livestock plans for the year. Give him a bell anytime. Dave Munro Livestock Buyer
WAVE25468
Mobile: 021 881 374 Email: dave.munro@affco.co.nz
WWW.AFFCO.CO.NZ | 0800 233 2669
PAGE 8
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
Infrastructure projects may ease commute STORY TIFFANY BROWN /// tiffany@westfranklinbreeze.Nz
As part of its NZ Upgrade Programme the government’s latest infrastructure plans include further improvements to SH1 between Papakura and Drury South and the electrification of twelve kilometres of railway line between Papakura and Pukekohe. The road improvements will connect with recently completed work on the southern corridor and extend the highway to six lanes. The project involves widening three bridges to accommodate the extra lanes and upgrading the Drury interchange. There will be a new Drury South interchange connecting SH1 with Mill Road, an additional lane in each direction, and an extension of the separate shared cycle and walkway. The long-awaited electrification of the railway line between Papakura and Pukekohe will allow for the replacement of the current diesel extension trains which can result in
extra travel time and cost for commuters. Local MP Andrew Bayly said, “Electrification from Papakura to Pukekohe is something I’ve been advocating for some time. I’m very grateful for the part that Deputy Mayor Councillor Bill Cashmore and the Franklin Local Board played in also pushing strongly for it.� The government is hopeful these infrastructure improvements will help ease traffic congestion as Auckland’s population swells to an estimated two million residents by 2028. Work is scheduled to commence late 2020.
 �
City look,country prices
Do you need bookkeeping help but can't afford staff? Is invoicing taking up too much time?
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020
The great Outdoors Caring for the coastline STORY TIFFANY BROWN /// tiffany@westfranklinbreeze.Nz
Anna McNaughton was inspired to set up Awhitu Beachcare after attending a workshop on dune care at Port Waikato. The group works with Landcare, the Auckland Council and charities Sea Cleaners and Sustainable Coastlines to manage beach debris, restore the foredunes and protect seabirds. The volume of rubbish washing into the peninsula’s ocean beaches increases each year. Smaller rubbish retrieved by volunteers is disposed of immediately while bigger items are stockpiled for annual collection by Sea Cleaners. Some of the debris found has included a Sydney Fish Markets fish bin and a council marked rubbish bin from Queensland. Together with Sustainable Coastlines, Awhitu Beachcare has developed the quarterly Litter Intelligence Survey at three west coast locations to monitor accurate numbers and description of rubbish. Lollipop sticks, plastic shotgun waddings and plastic bottle tops are the most frequently found items.
The group has been working on the Waimatuku/Hamiltons Gap foredune for a decade with great success. Native sand-binding plants are now thriving and most beach visitors respect the area and refrain from driving their vehicles over it. Anna says the group has begun another foredune project with Auckland Council at Wattle Bay. “There is a great lack of knowledge of the value of these perfectly adapted plants in protecting our beach frontages. Education is ongoing and we propagate and grow on some of these specialised plants, assisted by the Awhitu landcare nursery,� Anna said. She says the community has provided great support. A wide range of shorebirds visit the peninsula including
oystercatchers and dotterels who nest on the edge where they are vulnerable to storm tides as well as dogs, cats, vehicles, mustelids and rats. “This year we’ve had great hatching and survival, with beach residents and bird enthusiasts all keeping an eye on nests and birds. We’ve also had Waiuku College students creating signage with colourful illustrations and supporting messages, which have been set up alongside Council dotterel signs,� she said. The annual Beachcare walk is scheduled to tie in with Seaweek, the flagship event for the NZ Association for Environmental Education (NZAEE) a non-profit organisation that encourages behaviour to sustainability for New Zealand / Aotearoa.
A community clean up effort is scheduled for Thursday 27 February. Helpers are asked to bring dustpans and brushes to collect fine particles of small plastics washed into the Waimatuku/Hamiltons Gap. Meet on West Coast Road at 6.30pm.
Five Bays Walk
InDeed We Can provides cost effective bookkeeping solutions Invoicing and Debtor management Bank Reconciliation Expenses & Creditor management Monthly financial reports Enquire Today office@indeedwecan.co.nz
Awhitu Beachcare will host its third annual Seaweek Walk from Coulthard Reserve at Wattle Bay to Grahams Beach Reserve on Sunday 8 March. Including a short talk from Wendy Goad of Birds NZ on the local shorebirds likely to be viewed, the family friendly walk will take two to three hours. Mostly along sand but there are some rocky headlands so good footwear is required. Due to the tide the start time of 1.30pm will be strictly adhered to. For more information, please find advert on page 11.
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
PAGE 9
A wartime gift with a stubborn streak STORY KYLIE HALL /// kylie@westfranklinbreeze.nz
Awhitu’s Anna McNaughton is one of our fabulous local earth guardians. A woman who gets things done, but she would say, only with the help of an army. “You can’t achieve stuff on your own. People like me just initiate things, the army carry it forward.” I caught up with Anna to find out what makes this determined woman tick, and what ticks her off.
B
The determined gaze of a determined woman. Anna soaks up the Awhitu views during a restful moment. (Photo supplied)
orn in England in 1951 as the middle child of three girls, Anna was the gift from a wartime romance. The family suffered when the roadmaking business her father and uncle ran, fell on tough times amid a horror winter which saw men and machinery snowed in for weeks. It was a situation that bled the company dry. “Bankruptcies are considered part of business learnings now, but back then it was a huge issue,” recalls Anna. Her mother took up night shift nursing to help meet the mortgage. “In theory, night shifts were easier on the family, but in practice, it was very destructive to her health and stole our weekends as a family. As kids, we had to become very independent, very early.” A love of horses saw a young Anna pestering local riding schools in the hope of scoring some time in the saddle. “Those riding schools were the saviour of pony mad children who didn’t have paddocks or funds. Pain-in-the-bum kids like me, would eventually be given a spot on the helper team,” laughs Anna. Passionate about the outdoors from an early age, Anna struggled to sit still in the classroom but was inspired by a wonderfully whacky male biology teacher, Mr
PADDOCK TOPPING CHAINSAW WORK SMALL DIGGER WORK
PHONE RAY
021 951 082
Burt. “He grew a batch of nits in his hair to follow their life cycle and would open the lab at lunchtime, just so we could hang out with the guinea pigs and frogs. He was such fun!” says Anna. Not surprisingly, outdoorsy Anna excelled on the sports field and was named top athlete in her final year at college, a feat she says that was more down to diminishing numbers, rather than her actual talent. “So many girls dropped off the pace, it became easier to win everything as the years went by! It’s great to see sports for women so wide open now. We weren’t allowed to run more than 1500m, nor play rugby or cricket.” She finished her English Girls Grammar School with enough “O” levels to depart with hopes of becoming a veterinary nurse. “I nearly went to art school but was terrified of all of the super cool young people, so that was the end of that!” exclaims Anna. In the year between leaving college and starting her vet nursing course, Anna took up her first job, working with horses while pirate radio played in the background. Her idea of perfection. She learnt important lessons in those early days, including putting in a solid day’s work every day and building routines to ensure stuff got done. The leftovers of her first ever
pay packet were spent on underwear from Marks and Spencer, “to replace the grotty school stuff.” Gaining course placement for vet nursing was a challenge, as the new career option gained popularity and many competed for the same spots. But lady luck was on Anna’s side. “The secretary of the place I applied for had had a brief fling with my uncle during the war. Recognising my surname, she made sure I was put on the list!” Another wartime gift. Anna met husband Ian in England during her vet nurse studies. “We hit it off straight away,” she tells. Ian’s stature played a big part in the attraction, as most males around the area, which was very horsey based, were only a little over five foot. “A tall man was a bit like an oasis in the desert!” When Anna considers what habits she has that may drive husband Ian nuts, it’s stubbornness that’s top of mind. “There’s dumb stubborn and then there’s stubborn determination. I prefer to think I have the latter. I’d like to be known as someone who gets stuff done.” She loves fresh homegrown food, but is partial to a scoop of Kiwi ice cream, a block of chocolate, and some caffeine to wash it all down. The couple have two children, a daughter who is a dairy scientist,
and a son who works in the wobbly world of TV production. Grandchildren complete the picture and provide much joy. “We feel very lucky to live on the Awhitu Peninsula. Over the years we’ve joined with neighbours to covenant bush through the valley and restore wetlands. I think that appreciating nature and being lucky enough to inhabit woodland as a child makes environmental protection a natural interest,” says Anna. Her community work is legendary and includes 23 years with Awhitu Landcare and co-founding Awhitu Beach Care. “Bush restoration is so rewarding. Once things begin to balance with bird numbers increasing, natural seed regeneration takes over.” She’d love everyone to wage war against flannel weed, aka woolly nightshade. “Come on people. Pop on a high vis vest and cut down that ugly weed.” And don’t get her started on the chaos at Karioitahi Beach. “Speeding motorbikes doing stunts, among bathers, at the water’s edge? When will we have proper oversight of this popular recreation area?” she laments. Awhitu has been home for Anna for over thirty years now, so I think we can stamp her passport as a local. Anna McNaughton, a wartime gift. Stubborn, in a good way, just how we like them
MURRAY KEMP Come and see us for all your Water Needs • Bore Pumps • Water Pumps • Water Filters • Water Tanks • Water Testing • Electrical
40 Crosbie Road • Pukekohe •
Ph 09 237 0050
• AUTOS •
*A GRADE * MECHANICAL REPAIRS
People of our community
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020
• • • • •
Lubrication Engine Tuning Wheel Alignment WOF Welding
SALES AND SERVICES OF NEW EVINRUDE ENGINES • Latest diagnostic equipment for: Johnson, Mercury,Yamaha, Suzuki • Quality Maintenance of Boat Motors, Trailers & Electrical MOTOR TRADE ASSOCIATION MEMBER
NEW TYRES
PH: ROSS 027 286 2332 OR 238 3033 156B Manukau Rd, Pukekohe www.aqaumarinenz.com
• Repairs • Retreads • Fitting • Balancing
Ask about our pickup and delivery service.
16 CONSTABLE ROAD, WAIUKU
PHONE 09 235 9246
PAGE 10
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020
A big day for
Glenbrook Vintage Railway DBR 1254 leads her train across the Waiteti Viaduct. Photo by Finn O’Regan.
Auckland Anniversary weekend marked a major milestone for the Glenbrook Vintage Railway seeing its newly restored diesel locomotive DBR 1254 running on the Kiwirail network for the first time.
N
ot only was it significant for the locomotive’s return to the National Network but it was the first time in over ten years that Glenbrook Vintage Railway (GVR) have operated on the Network with a train made up of their own locomotive, carriages and crew. The introduction of DBR 1254 saw her running trains from Hamilton Station to Wharoa and Te Kuiti on the
Saturday and from Hamilton to Ohakune and return on the Sunday. With an isolated Kiwirail locomotive coupled behind as “insurance” 1254 did all the work, performing flawlessly up the demanding gradients of the Raurimu Spiral and Kakahi Bank. GVR General Manager, Tim Kerwin said, “This was an amazing achievement for Glenbrook Vintage Railway and has been a culmination of many years of hard work, not
only to restore DBR 1254 to Mainline standard but to get our systems in place and crew trained in order to run on the Kiwirail Network. It has only been through significant donations and the dedication of both our restoration and train crew volunteers that this has been made possible. “This is only the tip of the iceberg for Glenbrook so expect to see much more activity from us on the Mainline in the near future.”
Marathon effort in mate’s memory Shane Holmes has raised funds in excess of his original $3000 target for participation in the Surf 2 Firth bush marathon to honour the life of a friend who committed suicide last year. Deeply affected by the suicide, Shane, who became a new father in 2019, felt moved to use the event to raise money for the charity Life Matters. With a goal of zero suicide in the New Zealand health system, Life Matters offers advice on suicide prevention and support after suicide on its website lifematters.org.nz A keen athlete from a young age, the Waiuku landscaper’s passion for endurance running developed during his time as a student at Waiuku College, with the support of well-respected trainer Jerry Kuggeleijn. Shane uses a combination of running on the road, in the
Hunua ranges, Mt William and the Waiuku Forest to prepare for events like the Coromandel’s 60km ultra marathon. New Zealand suicide statistics skew heavily toward males. Shane thinks this is down to Kiwi men being ‘too tough’ to talk about how they’re feeling. “But sadly a lot of them are finding out the hard way that that’s not the right option.” Over a period of five months Shane raised $3800 from 71 donors for Life Matters on his givealittle page. Search Suicide awareness - ultra marathon to make a donation. The Surf 2 Firth event is scheduled for 21 March.
COUNTIES SHOTOKAN
Waiuku Auto Electrical
VOUCHER
MTA AUTO ELECTRICIANS
KARATE KARA TE MEN - WOMEN - CHILDREN - ALL AGES
1 x 1kg pilchards
$6
Only one per voucher • Available while stocks last • Valid until 31 March 2020 • Not redeemable for cash
9 Crosbie Rd, Pukekohe • PH: 09 238 9180 E: cheryl@countiesmarine.co.nz • countiesmarine.co.nz
Keeping you moving!
Excellent Self Defence, Fitness, Discipline Opportunity for international training & competition
(Traditional Okinawan Weapons, Sai Bo, Tonfa)
Ph: Ray Irving: 021 115 9380 or Denise Walker: 021 354 208 Pukekohe Dojo: 09 239 0272
Dojos in: Pukekohe - Waiuku - Maraetai Beach - Hokitika - Whakatane - Rotorua - Alexandra Waihi - Mackay, QLD, Australia - Sri Lanka and Germany
MOTOR TRADE ASSOCIATION MEMBER
PHONE 235 8522 3 L E O N A R D S T R E E T, WA I U K U
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020
PAGE 11
What future for
whitebait? STORY TIFFANY BROWN /// tiffany@westfranklinbreeze.nz
Public consultation on proposed changes to whitebait regulations closes on 2 March 2020.
T
he Department of Conservation (DOC) began a review of whitebait management in 2018, resulting in a set of proposals released in January. Included in their recommendations are a phase-out of whitebait export, amendments to current regulations and the setting of management goals for whitebait stocks. STRATEGY DOC’S strategy to ensure healthy and restored whitebait populations includes the introduction of limitations around current fishing practices, setting the season to 15 August to 14 October, upstream fishing limits and creating areas of whitebait refuge where fishing may be restricted. Local conservationist Stu Muir has been a whitebait enthusiast all his life.
“I catch enough for family, friends and as a koha for people in the wider community. I don’t sell it but I understand those that do.� Four out of six of our native species of whitebait are threatened or endangered. Stu would like to see more education from DOC around the various species and how people can minimise their fishing impact on whitebait stocks. “There is too much greed with some individuals running three or four nets at a time.� Conservation organisation Forest & Bird claim DOC’s proposals don’t go far enough, and is pushing for the introduction of a licence, catch limit, and data collection programme for whitebait. Stu agrees licensing is an option, but is concerned this could pave the way for commercial whitebait fisheries to
fill quotas and leave recreational whitebait enthusiasts empty handed. He also feels any changes to whitebait regulations will have a limited positive benefit if improvements are not made to their habitat first. Recently appointed chairperson of the Endangered Species Foundation, Stu’s efforts to restore and regenerate natural habitats are well known in West Franklin. His habitat restoration work has been going since 2011, and with the help of the local community his efforts have seen tens of thousands of native trees planted, invasive plant species removed and 1200 bait stations set up on all the islands on the lower Waikato River Delta, targeting rats, possums and mustelids. Stu agrees with DOC’s proposed export ban on whitebait, pointing out
MOTOR TRADE ASSOCIATION MEMBER
AUTOLEC LTD 33 Kitchener Road, Waiuku Mobile 0274 905 793
Ph 235 9634
Main image: Whitebaiters. Inset: Whitebait are the young of six species of New Zealand’s native fish. Top right: Above and below the water, in whitebait habitat on the Waikato River. Photos: doc.govt.nz
Seaweek Walk Awhitu Beachcare
Auto Electrical Service Specialists in: E.F.I. • Automotive & Marine Electrics • Air Conditioning • Batteries
that Chile, Argentina and Tasmania have all fished their whitebait species to the brink of extinction. “The most important thing to me is to see a sustainable fishery so that we may continue to enjoy this taonga and lifestyle for generations to come.� Have your say by making a submission at doc.govt.nz
44
th
Support the Waiuku Lions Club in their
SAND TO MUD FUN RUN/WALK
and help raise funds for Kariaotahi Surf Life Saving rebuild
29 March 2020
EARLY BIRD PRICES • • •
Adult $15, Child $5 Booking fees apply Entry on the day = Adult $20, Child $7 Race Day Bib pickup, late Registrations and Free buses to the start: Lions Station, Belgium St, 7.30 am-9.25 am
TUG-OF-WAR
•
Register your 6-Person team on the day.
d u M to PRIMARY d eid SCHOOL TEAM R n r a o S s f CHALLENGE Step
Parking: Coulthard Reserve, Dodds Road, Wattle Bay Awhitu.
MEDALS
Registration: 1.30 pm. Short Shorebirds of our Harbour Talk with Wendy Goad of BirdsNZ. Gold Coin donation for Beachcare Walk commencing at 2pm.
00
10,0
• • • • •
019 2 l i Apr
Toilets en route at Orua Bay and Big Bay. Refreshments will be available thto purchase at Grahams’ Beach reserve, plus free sausage sizzle. Shuttle Bus back to carpark. Beach walk suitable for families. (2-3 hrs) walking time. Sea cleaners Bags available for picking up beach debris/plastic.
ns o i L ku u i a W
14
KARIAOTAHI
•
First Male & Female home •
Trophy for the first school to get 6 of their children across the finish line!
8 kilometres KARIOITAHI BEACH TO MASSEY PARK
PAGE 12
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020
Waiuku Premier Rugby 20th anniversary of win 2020 marks 20 years since the Waiuku Premier Rugby team won the Counties Manukau Premier rugby title, the club’s first time since 1955. This historic victory proved the catalyst for a golden era in Waiuku rugby where finals became an expectation and many players went onto representative and national honours. The 2020 team included Counties Manukau stalwarts like Grant Henson, Ramon Lindsay and Michael Scott. In addition, club centurions Colin Marriner, Andrew Thomson, Maka Tatafu and Joe Kata played leading roles. The finals series will live long in the memories of those players and supporters of the time, as Waiuku were playing sudden death matches for a month as a result of qualifying fourth. A 50 point turn around from the last round-robin game against Pukekohe, including one Joeli Vidiri, had the community believing that something special was possible. One week later, with depleted playing numbers, Waiuku travelled to the bog of Ardmore and pulled off a grinding victory built on defence and resilience. A final followed at Pukekohe Stadium. National media were starting to take an interest in the story of this country club beating the big boys. Papakura were the opposition in the final and laden with big names. Their supporting crowd was huge. 95% of people in the stands were wearing green and red. The game was a low scoring affair with special moments that those present will remember. What followed the final whistle was special for all involved. The team returned to a packed Waiuku clubrooms
where hundreds were queuing to get into the building, really highlighted what this meant to the wider sporting community in general. Twenty years later, these events are still remembered fondly and with a sense of pride. As a result, a 20-year celebration reunion has been planned for Queens Birthday weekend, it is intended that this will provide an opportunity for those involved in the 2000 victory and the wider Waiuku rugby community to celebrate this historic event.
On Friday 29 May there will be a dinner at the Waiuku clubrooms, hosted by Counties Manukau rugby icon and supporter of Waiuku Rugby John Bell. Bello will conduct an evening which will include: pre-dinner drinks where the final will be played in the background , a presentation to the 2000 squad and a light-hearted look back at the events that surrounded the final series. While it is not anticipated that there will be ques to get into the clubrooms this time, a large crowd is anticipated.
Watch out Maccas
Above: Local board member Matthew Murphy mans the barbeque while Sharlene Druyven (top right) lends a hand assembling the burgers. Photos Auckland Council
OPD Officeware Copy Paper
Hi-white 80GSM. 500 sheets per ream. Acid free. ISO 14001 certified environmental management system.
of A4 $29.95 box 5 reams
$9. 95
Many rural halls in the Franklin area have had declining use for some years and their future is in question by council. Rural halls receive funding, but it is increasingly hard to secure when the hall is hardly being used. Te Toro hall committee have come up with a novel way to financially support their hall as well as put on an enjoyable time by hosting hamburger night each month. In December local board members Matthew Murphy and Sharlene Druyven were guest chefs. Matthew
OPD Officeware DLE Envelopes
Window. White. Self Seal. Box 500. 7503707
$24.95 box 500 excl.GST
manned the barbeque cooking patties, while Sharlene assembled the burgers in the hall kitchen. Almost 100 of the monster burgers were made for the locals to devour. “It’s a great event. Locals get together at the hall and enjoy each other’s company over a burger. There are kids running around everywhere and playing table tennis. It’s like country New Zealand from years ago,” Matthew said. “I had the holy cow burger, and it was enormous. You know you’ve had a good burger when you almost need
special offer
Buy 2 boxes for
45
$
7501916 3 reams excl.GST
Plain. White. Self Seal. Box 250. 7520008
$55.95
box 250 excl.GST
box of 3 reams
special offer
Buy 2 boxes for
$99.95
more than just stationery... 09 957 0123 142 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe and 16 Bowen St, Waiuku
a shower when you’ve finished,” Matthew continued. The novel approach to hall fundraising had Sharlene pondering her career path. “When I was elected to the local board no-one told me I’d end up flipping burgers. Te Toro hall committee have combined raising money with a community event that also brings people together. It’s great fun,” Sharlene said. Perhaps some of the fast food chains will have some local competition for the best burger!
OPD Officeware C4 Envelopes
7501894 5 reams excl.GST
A3 $53.40
STORY BILL DEED bill@westfranklinbreeze.nz
We lo e it all! Offers valid until 29 February 2020 or while stocks last.
Your A–Z of Trades & Services BUILDING
PAINTING
ELECTRICAL
STORAGE
STORE IT ALL Contact us for your next home improvement project All types of building, painting & handyman tasks undertaken by your local Franklin based tradesman
CARAVANS
Caravan Hire • Accommodation needs • Ideal extra bedroom
Phone Lynette & Jeff Millen
235 3500
Mobile 021 533 585
CARPET CLEANING
Free quotes, all work guaranteed • Experts in heat pumps and ventilation • new builds maintenance, renovations and commercial work
Level 5 finishes • Wallpaper finishes • Fixing & stopping services • Commercial • Residential • Specialist coatings m: 021 451 778 | e: nzpaint_plaster@xtra.co.nz
14 Hosking Place, Waiuku
ELECTRICAL
PAINTING
SURVEYORS
www.nzpaintingservices.co.nz
PAINTING ROOFS & EXTERIOR
Tom Kane ElectricalLtd • Maintenance & Installations
TEXTURED CEILINGS - SPECIALISED COATINGS
PH: 027 277 2346 • tkane@xtra.co.nz
Phone Bruce Cameron 0274 988 412
Email: office@madsen-lawrie.co.nz www.madsen-lawrie.co.nz
ELECTRICAL
PLUMBING
TAI CHI
Carolyn Foley
CALL NOW 09 235 9066
Mob: 021 886 475 Ph: 09 235 5014 Email: franklincarpetcleaning@xtra.co.nz
EMAIL: service@alanwilsonplumbing.co.nz WEB: www.alanwilsonplumbing.co.nz
PUMPS
EQUIPMENT / MECHANICS
Hall & Hyland Machinery Ltd.
GUBB PUMP & WELL SERVICES
P.O. Box 225, Waiuku • 13 Martyn Street, Waiuku
DESIGN, SUPPLY, INSTALL
Ph: 235 8748 • Mobile 027 496 1108 AFTER HOURS AVAILABLE 14 Constable Road, Waiuku
Why Harrisons?
• It’s easy, we’re mobile, so we come to you • Huge range of the latest carpets and vinyls to suit all decors and budgets • Vinyl planking and laminate as well as carpet and vinyl • Best price guarantee* • Get Fly Buys with every purchase • Finance options available (Q card, Gem visa)
FOR HIRE
James Collie
New
Owner/Operator
jrcoachlines@gmail.com
Over 37 years roofing experience
SEPTIC TANKS
CARL 0274 803 297
Certifi ed Drainlayers
For a Free Quote call us on
ALAN WILSON PLUMBING
• Hedges • Tree Pruning • Waterblasting • Weed Spraying • Rubbish Removal • Paddocks Topped
Specialists in vehicle servicing FOR ENQUIRIES:
PH 09 235 9066
info@waiukuwastedisposal.co.nz
CALL 0800 SUCKA1 0800 78252 1
ACTUAL CONCRETE
SEPTIC TAKEAWAYS
021 951 082
0800 48 25 32
Ray
PAINTING
PAINTING
SEPTIC TANK CLEANING
Mob: 027 476 1306 SPIRITUAL HEALER
Rose Evans-Collie Spiritual Healer
Jeff: 027 200 2000 446 Jeff 027 446
VEHICLE SERVICING
MECHANICAL REPAIRS
• PADDOCK TOPPING • CHAINSAW WORK • SMALL DIGGER WORK
DRAINLAYING
waiukuportabletoilets@gmail.com
200 MANUKAU ROAD, PUKEKOHE
027 274 5201
SEPTIC TANKS
PAINTING
0800 58 25 32
roofs and
LIFESTYLE BLOCKS
JOHN 021 501 438
WAIUKU PORTABLE TOILET HIRE
TRUCK RENTALS
CONCRETE
For all your concrete needs
www.smilingdragon.co.nz
Re-roofing • Repairs • Senior Discount
Tim Morrison
0800 279 009
Contact Tamara: 021 255 1087
Classic Roofing Solutions
AIRPORT SHUTTLE. CHARTERS. TOURS.
LAWNMOWING
harrisonscarpet.co.nz
09 235 8268
ROOFING
JR Coachlines
Weekly classes and weekend workshops Pukekohe - Waiuku - Tuakau - Mauku
TOILET HIRE
Pump Servicing • Bore Servicing • Water filtration • Plumbing supplies • Builders mix and cement • Sand
We’re Local and we come to you
LAND SURVEYORS Contact David Lawrie or Ben Young 14 Hall St, Pukekohe Ph 09 238 6369
• Domestic • Commercial • Rural
CERTIFIED TRADESMEN OFFERING A RANGE OF SERVICES INCLUDING: DIGGER HIRE • GAS HOT WATER • CCTV/DRAIN UNBLOCKING
CARPETS & FLOORING
MADSEN LAWRIE
Hard wearing coatings for most surfaces. Terraces, Garage floors, Block walls etc. Epoxy coatings - Airless Spraying, Roofs Painted
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
Local Family Business for over 35 years Free Measure and Quote PHONE: 235 3664 www.ciflooring.co.nz
021 293 6250
Call Brian 0220 616 614 or 09 235 0350 www.progressiveelectrics.co.nz
FRANKLIN CARPET CLEANING LTD
CARPETS & FLOORING
All Sizes
The aspiration is yours!
Aspiring Life
rosesaspiringlife@gmail.com Mobile: 021 252 7554
027 493 1223
Ph: (09) 235 2323 • 5 Leonard St, Waiuku
mobilemechanicalrepairs.nz
Do you need to be noticed? Call Sarah and talk to her about the Breeze and what it can do for your business.
Breeze Putting your company advert here will get you noticed. Call Sarah 09 235 7835
PAGE 14
WESTFRANKLINBREEZE.NZ
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2020 Pretty to look at but a major pest in the making. Agapanthus ‘colonising’ the roadside on the Awhitu Road.
CAPTURED Each month we showcase a photograph taken by a local photographer. This month’s photo was submitted by Isaac Khasawneh and highlights the beauty of our west coast sand dunes at sunset.
The lily of the Nile
Is it pretty or pest ? It is not a lily nor did it grow anywhere near the Nile River. But it is rampant on Franklin’s roadsides. Story and Photos Ngaire Deed They are native to South Africa, from the Western to the Eastern Capes. It grows in shade away from the hot sun. A fact which is hard to believe when you observe where and how it grows in New Zealand’s North Island. The agapanthus that grows all along our roadsides is a world favourite plant. It is showy and is grown for its exotic blue and white flowers that bloom from spring to the end of autumn. In many northern hemisphere countries where winters are harsh they are grown in pots so they can be protected from winter frosts and snow. They appeared in Europe in the early seventeenth century, the word “Nile” was most likely used to describe anything exotic and African. Since Victorian times each flower or colour of flower is symbolic of an emotion or expression. The name ‘agapanthus’ is derived from the Greek words for ‘love’ and ‘flower’. It is one of Kiwi gardeners’ most popular flower because it is so easy
to grow and looks amazing in some gardens. However it could be argued it’s also our most visible invasive weed. It’s a major threat to native plants, and some councils list it as a pest species. The fact it’s so hard to eradicate makes others wary of taking it on. Once a bank has a few plants on it, it doesn’t take many years before it is a solid mass of agapanthus. The plant chokes out every other pant and many of our native species are at risk, especially coastal herbs, grasses and shrub species. According to many professional pest eradicators, the plant is a “prolific” seeder that is very difficult to get rid of. It is described as ‘as tough as old boots’ and once established requires a strong back and poison to get rid of it. A toxic combination of metsulfuron-methyl and glyphosate is all that works and then three or four treatments are needed. Start at the top of the bank or slope and work
down it as control is achieved. The more physical way is to don the gloves, it oozes nasty gunk that can cause a rash, cut the leaves off as close to the ground as possible. Now it is the time to blow up the muscles and dig the rhizomes out with a sharp spade or fork. It is important to remove the rhizome as they will resprout, don’t worry too much about the squiggly white roots. Get rid of them at the dump, do not compost the rhizomes as they will grow again. Now to keep control of them. Spread old carpet or a layer of four or so sheets of corrugated cardboard on the bare spot and cover with mulch. Let it sit for six months before replanting. Seeds are prolific and live for ages in the soil so keep diligent and get rid of baby plants which are easy to pull out. The lily of the Nile may be beautiful to look at but it is going to become the gorse of the twenty first century if not controlled.
Buy 3 Icon compatible inks or toners and get a black ink or toner for
FREE
plus there’s more... Every customer taking advantage of this offer will be entered into the draw for a
$9. 95 of A4 $29.95 box 5 reams
7501894 5 reams excl.GST
A3 $53.40
7501916 3 reams excl.GST
box of 3 reams
$50 NewWorld Voucher $
45
Buy 2 boxes for
*Warranty details: For 12 months after the date of your purchase, if you are not satisfied with the performance or quality of prints from our ink and toner cartridges, we will supply a replacement product at no charge. If our products are proven to have damaged your printer, we will repair or replace your printer with an equivalent model of the same or better specifications. We reserve the right to request evidence of faults, quality issues or damage prior to sending replacement product or authorising printer repairs. Please note that you must contact us and receive our prior written approval prior to contacting a service agent or repairer and prior to commencing repairs. In the event that we authorise (in writing) a repair to a printer, we will nominate a repairer of our choice.
more thanjuststationery...
Ink & toners for some model printers may need to be ordered.
We lo eit all!
09 957 0123 142 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe and 16 Bowen St, Waiuku