Hibiscus Matters Issue 172 20 05 15

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May 20, 2015 Proudly NZ Owned www.localmatters.co.nz Your Local Community Newspaper continued page 2 Stillwater hall opens Community celebrates its brand new facility Balancing act What’s in Council’s budget for the Coast? page 3 page 6 page 10 page 9 Inside this issue Local folk Meet Wainui scientist and writer Warren Judd Red tape attacked Rules challenged at meeting in Orewa Whangaparaoa pLaZa. phonE 424 7870 Eddie Law WE ARE LOCAL & WE CARE & WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON PRICE. WE SPECIALISE IN APPLIANCE SERVICING THE LONGEST ESTABLISHED DEALER ON THE COAST Sunbeam GoBlender Personal Blender • 300 Watts • One touch blending action • Blend right into the BPA-free plastic bottle • Stainless Steel blade • Includes 2x 600ml bottles. PB1000T/PB1000A/PB1000P/PB1000B Sunbeam GoLunch • Fill, Heat & Eat • Individual food warmer gently heats leftovers, pre-prepared meals & soups • Ideal for hot lunches at work PB1000T/PB1000A/PB1000P/PB1000B Paul Garrett of Dairy Flat is the only motorcycle rider in NZ to be invited to compete in the Dream Bridgestone competition for disabled riders in Rome. The feeling of freedom and power that comes with motorcycle riding is all the more valuable to Paul Garrett now that he is paralysed from the chest down. Photo, JDAS Photos Paralysed motorcyclist sets sights on international competition The event takes place next month, and getting there is not only an immense physical challenge for Paul and his family, but also a financial one. Paul rode motorcycles as a teenager, and in 2006 he decided to get back into the sport, at the age of 50. A year later, he was racing his motorcycle at Pukekohe Raceway when he was involved in a particularly nasty ‘highside’ crash on a turn that is notorious for serious accidents. The bike lost traction and both Paul and his 600cc Formula 2 bike were thrown up into the air. Paul landed on his back and the bike came down on top of him. The impact inflicted a head injury that wiped his memory of the accident. It also crushed his C4 vertebrae, leaving him paralysed from the chest down.

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Hibiscus Matters Issue 172 20 05 15

Transcript of Hibiscus Matters Issue 172 20 05 15

  • May 20, 2015

    Proudly NZ Owned

    www.localmatters.co.nz

    Your Local Community Newspaper FREE

    continued page 2

    Stillwater hall opensCommunity celebrates its brand new facility

    Balancing actWhats in Councils budget for the Coast?

    page 3

    page 6

    page 10

    page 9

    Inside this issue

    Local folkMeet Wainui scientist and writer Warren Judd

    Red tape attackedRules challenged at meeting in Orewa

    Whangaparaoa pLaZa. phonE 424 7870Eddie Law WE ARE LOCAL & WE CARE & WE WOnt bE bEAtEn On pRiCE. WE spECiALisE in AppLiAnCE sERviCing

    The longesT esTablished dealer on The CoasT

    Sunbeam GoBlender Personal Blender 300 Watts One touch blending action Blend right into the BPA-free plastic bottle Stainless Steel blade Includes 2x 600ml bottles. PB1000T/PB1000A/PB1000P/PB1000B

    Sunbeam GoLunch Fill, Heat & Eat Individual food warmer gently heats leftovers, pre-prepared meals & soups Ideal for hot lunches at workPB1000T/PB1000A/PB1000P/PB1000B

    Paul Garrett of Dairy Flat is the only motorcycle rider in NZ to be invited to compete in the Dream Bridgestone competition for disabled riders in Rome.

    The feeling of freedom and power that comes with motorcycle riding is all the more valuable to Paul Garrett now that he is paralysed from the chest down. Photo, JDAS Photos

    Paralysed motorcyclist sets sights on international competitionThe event takes place next month, and getting there is not only an immense physical challenge for Paul and his family, but also a financial one.Paul rode motorcycles as a teenager, and in 2006 he decided to get back into the sport, at the age of 50.

    A year later, he was racing his motorcycle at Pukekohe Raceway when he was involved in a particularly nasty highside crash on a turn that is notorious for serious accidents. The bike lost traction and both Paul and his 600cc Formula 2 bike were thrown

    up into the air. Paul landed on his back and the bike came down on top of him. The impact inflicted a head injury that wiped his memory of the accident. It also crushed his C4 vertebrae, leaving him paralysed from the chest down.

  • | Hibiscusmatters May 20, 20152

    Puhoi Waiwera Hatfields Orewa Silverdale Millwater Dairy Flat Red Beach Whangaparaoa Peninsula

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    Design: Lorry McCarthy ph 427 8188 [email protected]

    contact us... May 20, 2015 Issue 172

    Views expressed in Hibiscus Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers. All rights reserved. Reproduction without editors permission is prohibited.

    Editor: Terry Moore ph 427 8187 [email protected]

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    Hibiscus Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated to more than 21,400 homes and businesses twice a month. A division of Local Matters.

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    My helmet and back protector, which is like a turtle shell, saved my life, he says.His recovery and adjustment to life as a paraplegic has taken time, helped by his strength of character and sense of humour. His family, particularly wife Margaret (a former nurse) and daughters Belinda and Jessica, friends and the motorcycle community provide the support he needs.Paul says riding again one day was always at the back of his mind.I missed it and determination grew to ride again, he says. I bought a bike and hid it at a friends place while I talked my family into the idea.He kept technical modifications to a minimum. They included disconnecting the rear brakes and adding a thumb operated control for gear changing. Velcro at the feet and knees of his leather race suit attaches Paul to the bike. Two assistants hold the bike in place while he is helped on and off.A year ago he got back onto the motorbike for the first time since the accident. He says the feeling was unbelievably good.It was almost like being a kid again, for those first few rides, he says. When youre in a wheelchair, things like driving are wonderful because they feel similar to what you could do before. It lets you leave the wheelchair behind.

    Since then, Paul has been learning a lot about what he calls a different way of riding.He races able-bodied riders at Pukekohe in the Auckland Motorcycle Club Series, with some impressive results, and goes to track days as often as possible to practice.Every ride is an effort; endurance is slow to build with no torso muscles to call upon and when you hit the wall you cant stop for a breather because you have to hold yourself up on the bike.The Dream Bridgestone Cup is the only international race for disabled motorcycle riders. It will be held on a circuit just outside Rome on June 7 and Paul says he is excited to be invited to take part.The event is to showcase the abilities and attitude of disabled motorcyclists, and to prove that the seemingly impossible can be achieved and enjoyed.Its a challenge that Paul is more than up for.Covering the cost of getting to Italy, as well as paying for the use of a bike over there, is proving difficult. Pauls family welcome donations to their Give A Little account, which closes on June 1 look for Paul Garrett motorcycle event.The link is attached to this story at www.localmatters.co.nz

    Police spent hours last week going through one of the largest hauls of stolen goods ever found in the Waitemata Police District.

    Police release operation tank stolen property number

    The discovery of thousands of dollars worth of stolen items in Dairy Flat early this month was widely publicised on social media. Hibiscus Matters Facebook story on May 8 reached 22,000 people, with many watching the video to try and identify items theyd had stolen.The goods, which filled 12 shipping containers, two horse floats and several sheds are now in secure Police storage.Around 60 percent of the items have been traced back to their owners, including all the motorbikes, trail and quad bikes and the majority of the kitchen appliances, which were stolen from homes under construction in Rodney.Police believe that the goods were likely to have been stolen over the past 18 months mainly from the Rodney and Albany areas.A 43-year-old man has been charged

    with receiving stolen property. The ongoing investigation into who is responsible for the thefts has been named Operation Tank (a 30,000 litre water tank was one of the items).Last week a contact phone number and email address were released for the public wanting to claim, or enquire about, the recovered goods phone 424 6509 or email [email protected] owners of several trailers, a concrete mixer and a large number of power tools still need to be identified, as well as a diesel tanker on a trailer.Anyone who calls is asked to have serial numbers or a description of distinctive markings on their items ready when they ring.Take a closer look at the haul on the video at localmatters.co.nz, where we will also put all the latest updates on this story as they occur.

  • Hibiscusmatters May 20, 2015 | 3

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    The Hibiscus Coast made some significant gains in Auckland Councils 10-year budget, as a result of the high number of submissions by the public, lobbying by local politicians and the introduction of the transport levy.

    Completion of the Silverdale park n ride is a key local transport gain for the Hibiscus Coast that results from the introduction of the transport levy.

    Budget brings wins and losses for Coast ratepayers

    This month Council agreed on its final 10-year Budget, or Long Term Plan (LTP) with the budget to be formally adopted by the Governing Body on June 25.Councillor John Watson says that the Coast fared reasonably well although he opposed the transport levy of $114 on average, per year, which brought the rates rise for Coast households to around 6.3 percent. The levy was sprung on the councillors and had no public mandate, which is why I voted against it, he says.Cr Wayne Walker voted for the levy, but says that was a difficult decision. It was the only option on the table to bring a number of transport projects in Albany Ward into the 10 year plan, he says. However, my preference would have been to fund transport improvements through other options. Im bitterly disappointed because the levy also takes the heat off central

    Government, and thats a big concern.Both councillors say that greater economies within Council, and its CCOs, including Auckland Transport, are called for. It would have been better to cut some fat from the system instead of accepting the transport levy, Cr Watson says.Penlink attracted a record number of submissions, but remains beyond the 10-year plan, although funding for the work that is already underway on extending the designation to four lanes is included.Money for erosion protection work on Orewa and other beaches was not in the budget, however Hibiscus & Bays Local Board chair Julia Parfitt, says there is no need for panic. Council needed more specific costings and we are putting these together in a business case, she says. Meanwhile, public consultation on the options for Orewa Reserve (HM May 6) will begin soon. We will

    then be able to put firm figures and a preferred option into the Annual Plan, seeking funding starting in 2016/17.One of the most significant gains was the agreement to ring-fence development contributions, so that they benefit the local community. Development contributions are

    paid to mitigate the effects of new subdivisions on the community. The draft LTP suggested that these would be put into a single pot to be spent anywhere in Auckland, but that has been altered so that they will be spent closer to home on environmental and community projects.

    Budget summary y Orewa Beach erosion protection work: Funding is available for consenting and public consultation this year. The local board is putting together a business case to obtain funding for the actual work. Mayor Len Brown said he regards Orewa Beach as the top priority to be addressed as part of a wider erosion, sea level rise and inundation study to be brought back to council by August.

    y Silverdale Park n Ride: The transport levy provides $6 million for completion of the park n ride facility to begin construction in 2016/17.

    y Transport improvements: Auckland Transport is considering a package of transport improvements, including construction of the Curley Ave extension in Silverdale, widening Whangaparaoa Rd from

    Red Beach to the highway and the introduction of transit lanes (T2 and T3 lanes) along Whangaparaoa Rd and Hibiscus Coast Highway. This work remains outside the 10-year-plan unless additional funding, such as motorway tolls or fuel taxes, are introduced (these require Government approval).

    y Metro Park East: Just over $900,000 has been set aside for field development. Further money may come from a fund supported by development contributions. The local board expects to fund toilets and changing rooms.

    y Street trading levy: The Trading in Public Places and Street Trading levy, expected to hit some Orewa businesses hard (HM November 19, 2014) has been reduced and deferred until 2017/18. A single annual fee (amount to be confirmed) will be the only cost for

    Orewa hospitality businesses to use public footpaths until then.

    y Stanmore Bay Pool & Leisure Centre: A total of $3.9 million was approved for the Leisure Centre extension project.

    y Capital funds: A new $10 million per year fund is to be created for local board capital expenditure. Depending on how this is allocated, Hibiscus & Bays will receive a few hundred thousand annually for capital projects, Julia Parfitt says.

    y Libraries: Libraries were asked to shave $2 million from their budget and reducing opening hours was an option. However, community opposition to that has seen Orewa and Whangaparaoa Libraries retain seven day opening (52 hours per week with local board top up funds). Additional user pays charges will be introduced including $2 for

    items put on hold but not collected (adults only) and an increase in the overdue fee from 60c to $1.

    y Surf Lifesaving building projects: The plan provides $1.9 million over the first four years of the LTP for redevelopment of the highest priority surf clubs.

    y Weed killers: There is a proposal to continue using Glyphosate/Roundup weedkiller on roadsides and parks throughout the Hibiscus Coast, despite community opposition, but Council may give local boards some control over what is used in their area, as long as they pay for any alternative from their own funds.

    y Inorganic waste collection: A new annual, on-property, pre-booked inorganic collection service will be rolled out Auckland-wide, starting this year, to be funded from the waste management targeted rate.

    Police release operation tank stolen property number

  • | Hibiscusmatters May 20, 20154

    Feedback Whats on your mind? Readers are welcome to air their views. Letters may be abridged or withheld. See address on p2 or e: [email protected]

    I shall explain thisone more time!

    If you want to cut thered tape you need osh approved

    scissors and a permitfrom the council!!!!!

    see story p10

    Lets get digitalWith digital editor Cathy AronsonWeve been improving our website so its easier for you to join the conversation online. Since we launched last month, the community have already been busy, adding their comments to stories such as Set Netting Concerns Switch to Matakatia, Local Folk and New

    Business stories. Keep coming back to localmatters.co.nz between papers to have your say, read extended stories and watch video interviews. You can also join the conversation on facebook.com/HibiscusMatters and follow our news feed on twitter at localmattersnzTop 10 stories: Last months most viewed stories online: Local folk: Dr Rebecca Matthews Local Opinion: Alison

    Holst bows out Remembering the sacrifice of Coast soldiers in World War I School stops to contemplate war effort Auckland Council eyes up reserve land for housing Apartment plans for Manly Vanuatu aid sails from Gulf Harbour Whiteheads first to return to Shakespear Open Sanctuary Rural families turn out in force for Anzac Day Estuary extension begins.

    off the record

    Anzac Sunday was a special occasion for the residents at the Hibiscus Coast Village. A group of residents, under the direction of Nancy Haaker, got together to produce an Anzac themed concert for the residents. After a few months of practice, a cast of 18 put on a 90 minute show of humour, song and skits to entertain an audience of 200 people. The concert concluded with afternoon tea. Nancy said it was great to see many of the villagers wearing poppies, some proudly wearing their medals, and joining in with their favourite and familiar war-time songs. The event also resulted in the presentation of a cheque for $414 to the RSA Vice President Kay Chilman, to go toward the Silverdale RSA welfare fund.Ted Buckwell, Red Beach

    Correction: Regarding proposed alternative flag designs (HM May 6) Rodney MP Mark Mitchell wishes to make it clear that: I support all my constituents in any process they need to go through, via providing information, support or contacts. In the case of the flag referendum, I do not support any particular alternative design.

    Our money, our choiceMy family and I spend a lot of time in and around Orewa Reserve and found the story in your last paper (HM May 6) about erosion protection measures enlightening. Public consultation on the possible solutions cant come soon enough! And I cant wait to be involved and put my two cents worth in. I get the feeling were being encouraged to go for the cheaper option but to me felling those iconic pines is out of the question. Its ratepayers money and good to see we are going to have the final word in how much is spent getting the beach and foreshore as wed like it to be.Rob Miller, Orewa

    Unknown flagMy wife and I have been sailing around the world in our yacht for the last nine years. During this time we

    have flown either the NZ Blue ensign or the Red NZ registered ship ensign. Of the 63 countries we have visited during our travels less than a handful of people we have met are able to identify our flag. Most have thought we were either Australian or English, which is rather sad. We now fly the Black Flag with the silver fern and it is amazing that more than 90 percent recognize it as a NZ flag. During our travels we joined a group of yachts and sailed round the Black Sea calling at Romania, Ukraine, Russia, Georgia and Turkey. Even during our stops through Asia, few people knew we were from NZ. The big problem I see is that most New Zealanders never fly the flag outside NZ so do not realize that it is so little recognized. We need a new flag and part of the design needs to include the silver fern. Grahame and Lynne Brown, Army Bay

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    Nikki Davidson of Manly sent in this photo of the impression that a wood pigeon left on her window. She says that the bird, drunk from eating guavas in her garden, smashed into the window, then flew off, probably with a very sore head.

    Measuring mishapGrass will soon replace gravel in part of the carpark alongside Dairy Flat Community Hall. Council obtained retrospective resource consent for a 900sqm car park, but the actual size was 1500sqm. They say they are helping us by grassing over 600sqm of our parking area, a Hall spokesperson says. But never mind, we can park on grass as well as gravel.

    Leaving chunks of wood from a fallen branch for the community to collect if needed has backfired for Auckland Council contractors the pieces were too large to carry, so have ended up remaining on this local park, while the contractors mow around them, leaving little pop up mole hills of long grass scattered around.

    Fake commuterA 24 year-old man got a $150 fine, and no doubt a red face, after attempting to use a T2 lane with a mannequin as the front seat passenger. Earlier this month Police pulled the car over at the Constellation Drive onramp when an officer spotted an unusual looking passenger in the front seat of a car using the T2. It proved to be a mannequin with a bandaged head and sunglasses. The driver was rather sheepish, apologised and said it was the first time hed done it, Police said.

  • Hibiscusmatters May 20, 2015 | 5

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    Changing the culture on the Hibiscus Coast to make it more attractive to young people is the challenge that has been taken on by a couple calling themselves Coast Collective.

    Surf and skate culture is celebrated in a video launched recently by local film maker Chris Dews.The 20-minute film follows Orewa surfer Travis Salahub as he tries to find legendary Hibiscus Coast surfer Shaun Batterton. It also features surfing and skate footage from other Coasties, including Element and Vans skater Chase Collins. All the skate footage was filmed at Stanmore Bay skatepark.Chris, aged 20, says he made the film as a reminder of good times with good mates because he expects to be leaving the area for work. It was definitely bros, not pros, he says. I wanted to capture those mornings at great surfing spots. It was while studying photography

    Charlotte and Harry Burt are on a mission to bring some cool to the Coast.

    Youth culture the focus for new Coast Collective

    Charlotte and Harrison Burt recently moved to the Coast, and Charlotte, who grew up here, says she found nothing much had changed since she was a teenager. I left the Coast when I turned 18 because there wasnt much happening for people my age, Charlotte says. After living in the city for eight years I convinced my husband Harrison, who grew up in the city, that we should try living back on the Coast and we moved here three months ago. This place has so much potential, and we love living here. But what weve found is that the culture for young people hasnt changed and there is nothing much to do here. We decided to do something about that.Between them, the couple have a background in youth work, social media and event management, and their first step was to create the Coast Collective blog to showcase cafs, shops and recreational activities.The Collective also set up a launch

    party for a locally made video (see story below) and a market, which was first held last week, May 16, at the Sea Scouts Hall in Orewa. The market began with 12 stalls offering jewellery, clothes, art, food, coffee and music. All stall-holders are aged 1530.Charlotte says the Collective would love to hear from young people with great ideas for the Coast. Info: www.thecoastcollective.wordpress.com

    Film celebrates surf and skate

    Chris Dews

    at university that Chris discovered he preferred story telling with video.He went on to make surfing and wakeboarding videos for The Edge TV.A link to the film is with this story at localmatters.co.nz

  • | Hibiscusmatters May 20, 20156

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    Stillwater Community Hall was officially opened last weekend, on May 16, with a large crowd attending a festive event to mark the occasion.

    Mary Livingstone-Atkinson, 95, cuts the ribbon to officially open Stillwater Hall with Local Board chair Julia Parfitt.

    Stillwater celebrates official opening of community hallOne of Stillwaters earliest residents, 95-year-old Mary Livingstone-Atkinson, was first in line to see the hall officially opened. She has been waiting to see a hall built on the site since her late husband George paced out the measurements for it in Duck Creek Road Reserve 30 years ago, and she was on the original hall committee.In a speech at the opening, Otene Reweti of Ngati Whatua quoted a Maori proverb that says success is not about the work of one, but the work of many.The former Rodney District Council initiated the project, but did not

    Stillwater Hall opened last weekend. More photos, localmatters.co.nz

    set aside enough money to make it happen. The Hibiscus & Bays Local Board took the bit in its teeth and, according to chair Julia Parfitt, begged, cajoled and pleaded with the governing body to get the project over the line.Construction of the 217sqm building and 89sqm deck took eight months and came at a final cost of around $860,000.Until now the Stillwater Boating Club has been the only gathering place, so the hall offers a new focal point for social and community activities.Speaking on behalf of the Stillwater Ratepayers & Residents Association, Mary Gallagher thanked the local board and the community for making it happen. Its wonderful to have a place where we can come together and be a community, she said.The association has set up a committee to run the hall, and Scouts, yoga, Thai kickboxing, a playgroup, and quilters are already on the schedule. The idea of holding a monthly market is also being considered.

  • Hibiscusmatters May 20, 2015 | 7

    Challenges aheadAuckland Council is now exactly half way through its current term. Im pretty sure that few previous councils have endured such sustained controversy and unpopularity. While part of this discontent is undoubtedly personal, part of it is also structural that is to do with the way this Super City has been set up with a dominant mayoral office and seven Council Controlled Organisations that are controlled in name only.You start to get the makings of a perfect storm when you combine the above with the need to catch up on the under-investment of the seven legacy councils while simultaneously trying to cope with unprecedented levels of growth across Auckland. In reality this is an all but impossible task solely on the back of a ratepayer base.The latest controversy is the imposition of a $114 transport levy on residential ratepayers. This was introduced to raise more money for transport projects. I voted against this levy because it imposes an unacceptable level of rate increase and was sprung by the Mayor at the last minute. It wasnt even mentioned in the household questionnaire mailed out to each home. It had no public mandate. Instead of the levy, funds could have been raised through greater economies from within the council organisation (particularly within CCO budgets), a regional fuel tax (which is fairer) and by lobbying government to fund more transport infrastructure. There are genuine alternatives to many of the decisions being made alternatives to the city-centric focus, asset sales, ports fiasco, expensive stadium rejigs, environmental, sporting and community cut backs and so on. Thats why Wayne Walker and I have found ourselves amongst a group of about seven councillors whove fought hard against many decisions we regard as retrograde. Its important that such opposition exists.Its not all doom and gloom on the council front however. Travelling around Auckland its clear that the Hibiscus Coast still enjoys a living environment and general council facilities that are the equal of any. If we can address our transport challenges through a joint funding deal over Penlink and expand our park and ride and ferry services, we will go a long way to retaining this quality of life, irrespective of other dark clouds on the council horizon.In these circumstances our dual role is to secure as many gains as we can for the Albany Ward while also presenting constructive alternatives to the various visions for the future currently being espoused. Its not an easy role but it is an important one.

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    The photography skills of Orewa Baptist Pastor (and Top Shotz photographer) Paul Collins, were rewarded with a win in the Wilderness Motorhomes photo competition. Paul says he was stunned to find out he had won, on May 14. The competition marked the companys 10th anniversary, and all photos had to have been taken while travelling in one of their campervans. The winner was selected from more than 100 finalists by public vote. Support grew rapidly on social media for Pauls photo of a swan on Lake Rotoiti. Local schools also got behind him. He has won a road trip worth $5000. As a family, we want to say a massive thanks to everyone who voted, Paul says.

  • | Hibiscusmatters May 20, 20158

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    The Northern motorway on and off ramps at Millwater opened last week, with the aim of reducing traffic congestion on the local network.

    Motorway interchange open

    The State Highway 1 interchange, between the Silverdale and Orewa exits, provides direct access to Millwater, Wainui Road and the future commercial area at Highgate.About 16,000 vehicles are predicted to use the interchange every day by 2021, and more than 4500 people are expected to be employed in the Highgate Business Park by 2025.The interchange includes a northbound off ramp on SH1, which links to Wainui Road and circles across the overbridge to Millwater and Highgate, an upgrade of Wainui Road including two new roundabouts, widening of the Millwater Parkway from Bankside Road to the overbridge, and a southbound on ramp to SH1 from Millwater Parkway. Millwater Parkway residents who attended the opening said they were looking forward to a reduction in traffic and construction.Les and Coral Nordstrand were among the first residents in the development three years ago and say the growth and construction in the area has been rapid. It will only take them a minute to get onto the motorway now, instead of having to drive to Orewa or Silverdale.Hibiscus & Bays Local Board member Janet Fitzgerald said the new interchange would hopefully help

    Fulton Hogan board member Hanlin Johnstone cuts the ribbon to officially open the Millwater interchange. Pictured with Clayton Reid from Highgate Business Park (left) and Graeme Causer (centre) from WFH Properties Ltd. Below, Les and Coral Nordstrand were among the first residents to move into Millwater.

    reduce congestion in Silverdale. The interchange was a requirement of the original consents issued to the developers by the former Rodney District Council when the subdivision and business park were proposed. Millwater developer WFH Properties and Highgate collaborated on the project. Construction was by Ross Reid Contractors, Woods and Fulton Hogan. Work began 15 months ago.The project was budgeted to cost $16.9 million, but geotechnical conditions, weather and traffic controls pushed this out to $17.2 million.The NZ Transport Agency worked with the developers and Auckland Transport in the planning and design of the ramps and road connections as well as ensuring they complied with standards. The Transport Agency is responsible for operation and maintenance. Full ownership of the interchange will be handed over to the Transport Agency in 12 months.

    10 SILVERDALE STREET. SILVERDALEJ ON E SD E P T. N Z

    creat iv i ty is contagiousAlbert E inste in

    View more photos plus videos online

    localmatters.co.nz

  • Hibiscusmatters May 20, 2015 | 9

    localfolkMaths and chemistry were a struggle for Warren Judd at high school, but a childhood fascination with shells lead him to become a Fulbright scholar and later lecturer at Auckland University. After a former student established NZ Geographic, Warren eventually found himself at the helm of the magazine. He talked with Hibiscus Matters reporter George Driver at his 38-hectare farm in Wainui about how a fascination with just about everything has steered his lifes course.

    Warren Judd

    I grew up on the North Shore on a section that was carved out of a dairy farm in the 1950s. My mother was the first district nurse on the North Shore and my father ran a service station. When I was about 12, I developed an interest in shells. It was more an aesthetic appeal at first, but I became obsessed with everything about them and learned a lot very quickly. My parents had a caravan and every holidays I would choose where we went. I must have been to nearly every interesting beach in the country by my late teens. At that age, I could absorb the Latin names and other information with almost no effort. Too bad I dont have that ability any more. My parents felt like my brother should develop an interest as well and steered him towards rock-hounding and I became fascinated by geology as well. Between rocks and shells I came to know a lot about the country.

    Given my weakness in some sciences, I studied history, Latin, and geography at Auckland University. But I made a fascinating discovery while in my first year that really changed my life. I was out sieving sand for small molluscs at Cheltenham Beach, Devonport, when I found a creature Id never seen before. It was a one cm bivalve, so fragile that the shell was almost transparent. I took it back to the aquarium Id set up in my basement to study. Unlike most bivalves, it crawled around like a snail, with its shell pitched open like a tent on its back. It also had a pair of feeler-like tentacles and a strange sensory organ at the front and balloon-like defensive appendages down the back. Its still probably the strangest bivalve known from New Zealand, and one of the most peculiar in the world. I took it to zoology professor John Morton at Auckland University who was very excited and persuaded me to write a scientific paper about the discovery, which was published in the UK. He told me I should become a scientist, so I set about changing course.

    When I got to my third year studying zoology the department urged me to broaden my interests and I started a biochemistry project and I ended up doing a PhD that was more biochemistry and cell biology than zoology. My research subject was still molluscs but about proteins and glycoproteins in

    part of the bivalve digestive system. One of my examiners was impressed by my research and had connections with a renowned cancer researcher at Harvard Medical School. On his recommendation I moved to Boston on a Fulbright Scholarship, studying cancers of human immune system T cells. It sounds like a huge jump, but it used many of the same skills and techniques Id used for my PhD.

    Boston was a fascinating place to work. I recall there were 62 tertiary education institutions in the city, including Harvard and MIT. Once a month all of the Fulbright scholars in the city were organized to have a dinner and lecture togetheroften from a Nobel laureate. There was also a lot of exciting research happening. The lab was one of the first to start making monoclonal antibodies, which today are the basis of an increasing number of anti-cancer drugs such as Herceptin. In 1981 I returned to New Zealand and became a lecturer in the Department of Cell Biology at Auckland University in 1982. I began researching how cancer cells develop resistance to chemotherapy drugs, working in collaboration with the Cancer Society Research Centre at the Medical Schoolone of the best science groups in the country and world leaders in developing chemotherapy drugs.

    I was lecturing on immunology, which was a wonderfully complex and growing field, but I always hated the constant struggle of trying to get research funding.

    It was during this time I became involved with NZ Geographic. I had taught the magazines founding editor, Kennedy Warne, when I was doing my PhD and wed kept in touch. He came to me when the magazine was starting at the end of 1988 because he thought I knew a lot about New Zealand. Id never done any popular writing before and had no idea if it was something I would be good at. But at Kennedys suggestion I started writing bits and pieces and then a major story on deep-sea fishing for the fourth issue.

    I enjoyed the variety of it. At university you spent all your time concentrating on a very narrow field. But writing for NZ Geographic you had to become knowledgeable about a subject in a couple of months and then moved

    onto something completely different.

    I seem to have the ability to become interested in almost anything, which is handy. The stories I enjoyed most were subjects I new nothing about, but I also liked the challenge of making a complicated topic intelligible to a general audience. Kennedy started trying to persuade me to come and work with him and I eventually left the university and started fulltime as deputy editor of NZ Geographic in 1995, becoming editor in 2004. By that stage we only had two fulltime staff me and graphic designer, Andrew Cauldwell, but there was never a shortage of freelance writers wanting to contribute. Id been told there were over 6000 magazines available in NZ and wanted NZ Geographic to stand out. Magazines often specialise in snippets and columns, and TV is an endless fount of superficiality. New Zealanders are also renowned as readers of novels, so I deliberately concentrated on big stories rather than news and columns. I wanted it to be meatier than other magazines. Both Kennedys and my science backgrounds also meant the magazine was strongly concerned with accuracy, thoroughness and balance not sensationalism. Nor were we much into advocacy writing.

    The job has taken me to some fascinating places. One story that had a lasting impact on me was about Lord Howe Island, which lies between NZ and Australia. Its a world heritage site with many unique plants and animals. A volcanic hotspot formed it six million years ago, but its slowly eroding back into the sea. If it keeps eroding at the current rate it will be nothing more than an atoll in 200,000 years and its cargo of unique organisms will become extinct through a natural process.

    This has happened countless times throughout the world. That gave me a different perspective on conservation. The fate of every species is to become extinct at some stage. How much effort should we expend maintaining the current state of things in a world that inevitably changes? I still think conservation work is worthwhile, but youve got to pick your battles. Ive spent a lot of time, effort and money restoring wetlands and planting both native and exotic forest on my property, but I dont think native forest should cover the whole country, nor do I think the effort to save every species is necessarily the best use of resources.

    I left NZ Geographic at the end of 2008 as a result of a misunderstanding! My parents both died from peripheral vascular disease within a year of each other. I thought it wasnt a good genetic omen for my future, so I quit to do something more active, rather than sitting behind a computer for 12 hours a day. More hiking appealed, so I bought an old van to travel the country. But while clearing my parents house, I found my mothers recipe book. She did a prodigious amount of baking including pastry and I never realised how much butter was in it. I decided it was probably home cooking which clogged their arteries, not bad genes. However, I mostly dont regret leaving the magazine. Its given me time to focus on other things. I have forests and 150 sheep on my farm in Wainui and enjoy getting out and working with my hands. While I still do some writing, I also have a workshop and do woodwork, silversmithing and lapidary work. And Im keenly interested in alternative energy including liquid fuels. If you learn skills and accumulate knowledge, you never know where things will end up.

  • | Hibiscusmatters May 20, 201510

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    Cutting red tape is the mantra of the Governments Rules Reduction Taskforce, who came to hear what locals had to say at a meeting in Orewa this month.

    Rules Reduction Taskforce member Tau Henare addresses

    the Orewa meeting.

    Frustrations aired at Orewa taskforce meeting

    Its a topic that people are passionate about and there was no shortage of stories of frustration and spiralling costs caused by local and central Government rules at the meeting on May 8, hosted by Mark Mitchell.The Minister of Local Government, Paula Bennett, appointed the taskforce last October to listen to concerns about regulations that frustrate property owners and those who use property. The taskforce will make recommendations to the Government, following which, as taskforce member Tau Henare said, the minister will take a hot knife to the rulebook. Around 30 people from all over the Hibiscus Coast and Rodney, including farmers, developers, business and property owners, attended the Orewa meeting to share their experiences with three members of the taskforce Tau Henare, Mark Thomas and Chris Burke.Mr Thomas said that the three main areas of concern identified so far by the taskforce are the Building Act, The Resource Management Act and rules around Occupational Health and Safety.Although there were plenty of concerns raised about Auckland Council regulations and bureaucracy in general, the Resource Management Act was the main source of frustration for those who spoke in Orewa.Peter Wilson of Red Beach drew applause when he said that the costs for resource consent applications were ridiculous an example was the charge of $10,000 levied when he applied for a resource consent with limited notification in order to subdivide his section.Like many others at the meeting,

    he said it was not the Resource Management Act itself that is at fault, but the bureaucracy that has grown up around it.One of the principles of the Act is to enable people and communities to provide for their social and economic wellbeing, but Councils have gone away from that principle, he said.Enable turned out to be the word of the night, with others commenting that Council planners, frightened to get anything wrong, would rather say no, than enable people to get on with work around their own property.Tim Hosking of Wainui described the time when Council staff informed him that the six-inch effluent pipe he had installed on his property had to be replaced by a four-inch pipe. Its time to say no to all those little Hitlers, he said.Terry Sinclair of Horncastle Homes said that his experience working with Manawatu District Council showed a potential way forward.Rules protect the public and create a nice environment to live in, but a more efficient process is needed, he said. He said in his experience, a system where you can get agreement from neighbours for minor activities on your property works well.You talk with any affected neighbours and they sign a form if they are happy with what you are proposing. This is then passed to the planners for sign off.In closing the meeting, Mark Mitchell said that it was clear that cost and time were the main causes of frustration. Mr Thomas said those themes are coming through strongly nationwide, and were at the top of the taskforces list.

  • Hibiscusmatters May 20, 2015 | 11

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    Enjoy an exhilarating day trip to this world renowned Wildlife Sanctuary. Tiritiri Matangi is home to some of the rarest species of NZ flora and fauna, and a must do trip for both locals and visitors alike.

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    Volunteers get busyIt has been a busy few months at Shakespear Open Sanctuary and its about to get even busier with the start of the planting season.Once again we have about 18,000 seedlings to plant, most of them grown by volunteers at our own on-site nursery. Planting out is a very satisfying and social activity, with free barbecue following, so please come and help. The dates are June 14 and 21 and July 19, with details on our website.Sound systems to attract seabirds in to nest have now been installed along the eastern cliffs of the Sanctuary. These play seabirds calls very loudly all night and can easily be heard from a kilometre away. Fortunately they are very directional so they can be heard only about 100m from the landward side.Petrels and shearwaters are common in the gulf but mostly nest on islands because they are exceptionally sensitive to predators. While they nest in burrows, possibly a defence against bigger seabirds, this does not protect them from introduced predators: one rat can wipe out an entire colony, so these birds are uncommon on the mainland. We already have a few of our target species nesting along the cliffs, and our next step is to construct and install artificial burrows to try to speed things up. This also helps with monitoring, as its much safer taking off the lid than sticking your hand down a long burrow to see what is living there. The burrows will be placed next to the speakers, as experience shows that the birds do not seem to mind the racket they make. Theyve even been observed putting their heads right into the speaker cones to see whos there! Seabirds are very loyal to their home and usually return there to breed, so it takes a long time to attract enough new birds to establish a colony and well have to be very patient to see results.

    Green scenewith Peter Jackson, SOSSI [email protected]

    Volunteers complete the installation of the solar-powered speakers.

    Back on land, our regular nighttime survey of lizards has been completed with very encouraging results. Most exciting was the discovery of another Auckland green gecko, who was carrying babies. These tiny and very beautiful lizards are widely dispersed and hard to find, but weve found enough now to be sure that there is a population of them at Shakespear.

  • | Hibiscusmatters May 20, 201512

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    Since Harcourts Tandem Realty opened its office in Millwater Central last month, their services have been in demand. Its no secret that the property market is red hot, and sales manager Amy Wagstaff says demand exceeds supply in every area that they handle.The 11 sales people on the team include four specialists in rural property. Others focus on residential or commercial property. Amy says properties are often selling to buyers in Harcourts databases before they go to auction, and in some cases even before the Harcourts sign goes up outside.She says Millwater is a great neighbourhood to sell in. It already has a good community feel that families enjoy, as well as nearby shops and schools, Amy says. You can cycle to the beach and there are walkways to make getting around easy.She says that some forward-thinking buyers are especially interested in property that is zoned Future Urban under the proposed Unitary Plan, some of which is along the Millwater border.The challenge in todays market is to find enough property to sell, Amy says. Because our agents live locally, they keep themselves well informed about what is available now and what may be coming up for sale.The brand new Millwater Central

    Michelle and Phil Rymer, owners of Montage Health and Fitness in Gulf Harbour, transformed their lives through exercise and healthy eating and are excited to pass that experience on to clients in their gym.The couple have been together for 20 years and were both in the hospitality industry, sharing their love of food and people. It was a lifestyle that took its toll on their health, and Michelle says they were both overweight and unfit. The birth of their daughter, Jade, seven years ago was a turning point which included Phil retraining as a Personal Trainer, and Michelle gaining a certificate in Nutrition for Weight Loss. Exercise alone is not enough, its a balance that includes diet and lifestyle, Phil says.Opening Montage Health & Fitness is the next stage on that journey, and for Michelle and Phil there are no half measures. The gym is equipped with the latest, top of the range cardio and weight training equipment and is open 24/7 to members, who pay a competitive membership fee with no contracts to sign.At present Michelle and Phil are staffing the gym almost 24/7 themselves, so they can be there to assist clients. Weve found that anything we do is more successful

    Harcourts Tandem Realty Silverdale Montage Health and Fitness

    premises has become the head office for Tandem Realty, which owns the Harcourts franchise for the Hibiscus Coast and much of Rodney. Tandem Realty is jointly owned by Nick Langdon and Colin Hair and the Silverdale office is the fifth that they have opened.Amy says that as Harcourts is the largest real estate company in New Zealand, operating since 1888, the company values its local heritage. Historic photographs of Silverdale, obtained from the Pioneer Village, have been blown up to cover the entire wall of several of the offices at Harcourts Silverdale, including an image of the town hall and confectioners store.This area is a real blend of old and new, and thats what makes it so vibrant and interesting.

    Amy Wagstaff

    when we work together, Phil says.Michelle is passionate about promoting Gulf Harbour, and says one reason they opened the gym towards the end of last year was for the convenience of other local residents. She says members generally come from the Tindalls Bay to Gulf Harbour area, and feedback is that a gym is something that was definitely needed.All new members have a workout session with Phil, who draws up a programme to suit their goals and level of fitness. Michelle also offers an All-in-one Body Trim programme, which includes weight loss advice.We have a realistic attitude and know, having been there ourselves, that support is needed as well as information, Michelle says.

    Michelle and Phil Rymer

  • Hibiscusmatters May 20, 2015 | 13

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    The Pet Stores slogan, on the walls inside and outside the store in Millwater Central, is where pets come first.This means not only supplying everything that a pet (and owner) could possibly want, but also having staff who can provide helpful advice.Assistant manager Talei Desborough has learned a lot in her many years in the pet industry, especially about dog behaviour and training, while vet nurse Richelle Redmond has specialist knowledge about animal nutrition.Owner David Kitch says sourcing products that are healthy, organic and sustainable wherever possible is a big focus. People are becoming more aware of the importance of eating healthy food, he says. These same things apply to animal health. Once people find out about the amount of fillers in some pet food, and how that can affect an animals health, they are shocked.The store has a wide variety of foods that use good quality, natural ingredients, including the Ziwi Peak and Go ranges, and a fridge full of pet-pleasing raw meat including rabbit, goat, salmon, possum and duck combinations. There are Organix dog cookies, natural soap and flea repellents and even eco-friendly toy

    David Kitch

    bones and hoops for dogs, made of sustainable rice husk rubber.Opening the store has enabled David, who lives in Hatfields Beach, to combine years of retail sales experience with his lifelong love of animals. He admits to being a dog person, but has also owned cats.With animal welfare in mind, his policy is not to sell puppies and kittens, instead suggesting customers consider providing a home for a rescue animal, for which the store can recommend contacts. Small animals, including rabbits, may be available at The Pet Store from time to time, and resident Rainbow Lorikeet Togi is always on hand to welcome customers.David has plans to launch a website next month, as well as offering a local delivery service.Its all part of providing a locally owned, friendly service, he says.

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    Carpe Diem & Pacific BarTurning Carpe Diem & Pacific Bar in Gulf Harbour into the type of community hub where everybody knows your name (to quote the TV series Cheers) will take time, but a new team is on board and working hard to achieve that.Managing director Tammy Jenkins says the first priority has been focusing on top quality service and food.The aim is to make it a regular spot for Gulf Harbour locals, as well as attractive to visitors, she says. There are some big changes to come, including a complete makeover, but it will all have to be done gradually so that we can remain open throughout.Baodi Shan, whose background is in hospitality, bought the business five months ago. He had been working in the kitchen for several months and says he could see the potential that the restaurant and bar have.Its a fantastic location the best spot in Gulf Harbour and with a strong team I feel confident we can achieve big things, Shan says.His ultimate goal is for Carpe Diem to be one of the top restaurants in New Zealand.Tammy says the team is currently adjusting the entertainment options in the Pacific Bar to find out what appeals most to customers.There is live entertainment every weekend, including popular acts like Ben and Hayden/Accoustic Intent of

    From left, Baodi Shan, Gail Horton-Stott and Tammy Jenkins

    Stanmore Bay and Greta Fischer. A weekly pub quiz is on the agenda.Restaurant manager Gail Horton-Stott says that the menu is having a fusion styled makeover, with the focus on fresh, seasonal and quality ingredients, with a new brunch and dinner menu arriving in time for winter. She says the kitchen staff bring experience from all over the world, including Brazil, China, the UK and New Zealand.She says as more restaurants have opened in the area, competition is keeping everyone on their toes.We have to have the total package professional, friendly service, great food and an atmosphere that people enjoy, she says. We are very grateful to our long term customers, who have made this place their second home, and were looking forward to welcoming a whole lot of new ones.

    Cuppa for a causeHospice Cuppa is part of the annual Hospice Awareness Week, which has just ended, but Cuppa events can be held until the end of July. Anyone can register as a host, invite guests and put on a morning or afternoon tea where they ask their guests to make a donation in support of their local Hospice. Hosts can register online (www.hospicecuppa.co.nz) or phone Hibiscus Hospice, 421 9180. A pack that includes recipes, Dilmah tea and Laffare coffee is provided. All funds raised support the care that Hospice offers in the local community.

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    Taekwondo has changed the life of nine-year-old Shay Cowan of Stanmore Bay but financial pressures have left his mother, Kim, fighting to keep him doing the sport he loves.

    Shay Cowan, who was born deaf, is a dedicated and skilled Taekwondo student.

    Taekwondo practice speaks volumes to deaf boy

    Shay has been a student at Daehan Taekwondo for two years, and thrives on the strict discipline, moral teachings and fun, challenging activity.The fact that he has very limited hearing has not held him back; two months ago he earned his Poom Belt (the equivalent of a black belt for students under the age of 16) and he has been awarded a medal at every competition hes been in.Often competing against older students at his level, he received Silver and Bronze medals at the recent Taekwondo NZ Open championship.Kim says the Daehan Masters have become role models and Shay is working towards a professional career in the sport, with the goal of representing New Zealand.He asked his instructor if he could train there every day, but was told that everyone needs time out, Kim says.The Stanmore Bay School student makes do with training three days a week during the school term, but is at Daehan every day in the holidays. Currently he is preparing for a competition at the end of this month.Kim, who is a single mother of two, says that the sport has given her son something to feel proud of, and therefore a sense of feeling normal,

    despite his hearing impairment.This has made it difficult to face the fact that the annual cost of around $3000 for instruction and uniform, is now beyond her reach.She is looking for sponsorship to allow Shay to continue with Taekwondo, and has set up a Give A Little page.I didnt think about the cost when he first got into it, she says. Its not just a hobby for him and with all the work hes put in, I cant bear to take it away.Look for Shay Luka on https://givealittle.co.nz or follow the link on this story at localmatters.co.nz

  • | Hibiscusmatters May 20, 201516

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    A combination of slips and fallen trees has almost completely blocked the part of the Weiti River that Fusion Marine sits alongside.

    This portion of the Weiti River has been badly affected by slips and is difficult to navigate at low tide.

    Call for Weiti River repairsAt low tide the river at the foot of Manga Rd narrows to a trickle, a small pond is formed near the boat ramp by a blockage further down, and then the river level drops significantly.Denis and Stuart Bettany, directors of Fusion Marine, say this is causing their business significant difficulties and are calling for Auckland Council to clean it up.The company has been on this site since 2005, building and repairing boats.It used to be deep water right off the ramp, but now when boats leave here, as they turn they can easily run into the mud bank, Denis says. Weve had a number of boats get stuck. We still get launches in and out here, but will have trouble with keelers with the river in this state.Stuart says the problems have been ongoing since two major slips occurred along the bank behind Titan Place in late September/early October 2013. The slips brought down large trees and pushed soil into the river. One slip blocked the river completely, and at that time Council removed some material to release the water flow. Stuart says Council advised that they would come back during summer and clear everything, but that never happened. Unfortunately they also dropped the mud that was removed to the side, where it eventually washed

    back into the river again, Stuart says.The trees that slipped down the bank, now dead, are on the verge of toppling into the river. On the opposite bank mud has built up by the outflow of a Council drain, causing a dam to be formed.Stuart says it would not be difficult to fix the problem, as diggers can drive along the riverbed to remove the mud. However, their attempts to get some action from Council have so far proved fruitless.In response to Hibiscus Matters questions, acting manager local and sports parks north, Grant Muir, says that the slips related to stormwater runoff. A relatively small amount of material and vegetation entered the tidal area and this was removed shortly after the event took place, he says. The overall effects of the slip were considered minimal in that no damage was identified within the tidal zone.Stuart says that in fact the effects were far from minimal. The course of the river has changed as a result of the slips and more sediment is now building up on the opposite side of the river, he says. This is having a major effect on water flow and if this is not rectified now, it will create more problems downstream. Council are aware the effects on the river, however they have not been back to clean it up. We would like to see some action.

  • Hibiscusmatters May 20, 2015 | 17

    Ruralfeature

    STIHL SHOP SILVERDALE 6 Flexman Place, Silverdale | Phone 426 5414 MonFri: 8am5pm; Sat: 8am1pm; Sun 10am4pm

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    Stream supportResidents of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board area whose property is within 20m of a stream may be eligible for free advice and support via the North-west Wild Link Assistance Programme. The Kaipatiki Project Environment Centre are partnering with the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board to support private landowners to care for waterways and restore stream habitats. The programme offers property owners free assistance with stream bank restoration including an on-site consultation with an expert advisor, information on species to plant and support and advice on weed control. To arrange a consultation, contact Kaipatiki Projects Natural Heritage Coordinator before May 29, phone 09 482 1172 or email [email protected]

    A study on farmland at Te Muri Regional Park has found removing stock from productive streamland catchments could have low environmental benefits and be economically unviable.

    Clear results for farm study

    Auckland Council commissioned AgResearch to complete the study, which used computer models to investigate the impact of removing stock from a 26ha block on a 404ha sheep and beef farm.The research was released in a report in March. The Council-owned farm allowed unprecedented access to records for fertilisation rates, soil types and economic performance, the report said.The scientific models used the data to identify the risk of nutrient run-off, leaching and greenhouse emissions and also looked at how changes would affect the economics of the farm. According to the models, the environmental benefit of removing stock from the block was low, but the costs were high.Retiring the catchment resulted in the loss of 10 percent of the productive farm area and an 11 percent reduction

    in stock numbers, which caused a 12 percent reduction in gross margin. That reduced the farms profitability by 25 percent. However, this only had a small impact on nutrient loss from the farm. The report said if regulations forced farmers to retire productive stream catchments, more farms would be unprofitable.Council principal ranger for northern parks Matt Vujcich said it was too early to determine whether the stream catchment would be fenced off to run the experiment in practice. Council would wait until the results from other research projects at Te Muri have been completed, he said. Over the past 18 months, they have been looking at the impact of stock on sedimentation rates and wildlife in the stream catchment. Once those studies are complete we will look at the best course of action for Te Muri and other Regional Parks.

  • | Hibiscusmatters May 20, 201518

    *Visit curves.co.nz/12-week-challenge for terms. 7 Tamariki Avenue, Orewa | Phone 09 426 1231

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    Soothing the itchIts around about this time of year that some kids start to scratch more than usual.No, its not ants in their pants! Eczema is a common itchy skin condition often flaring up in winter that affects up to 1 in 5 of our kids and some adults. Eczema frequently runs in families and can sometimes be linked to conditions such as asthma and hayfever. Did you know that a child with eczema has a four times more likely chance of also having asthma? Thankfully around 60 percent of children grow out of eczema, but their skin will remain sensitive.If you have eczema, your skin barrier is not as strong as normal and allows the skin to leak moisture out and let irritants in. So controlling eczema means using soap substitutes (to avoid drying the skin), lots of moisturizers (to hydrate the skin and strengthen the skin barrier) and also avoiding irritants (triggers).Triggers may be environmental such as soap, cold weather or pollens. A skin prick test may help pinpoint some of an individuals environmental triggers. The trick then becomes for that person to try and eliminate or avoid these triggers. Dust mites are a very common trigger. Aucklands 80 percent humidity provides the perfect environment for them. Eczema may flare up, particularly in March and April, when populations of dust mites increase. Eliminating them completely is nigh on impossible, but its worthwhile investigating ways of minimising exposure to them.Food sensitivities may also trigger eczema. Food diaries and/or elimination diets can be used to track down the culprits.Steroid creams should be applied if the skin becomes particularly inflamed and itchy to bring eczema back under control. But these creams do cause a range of side effects. There are now also some great natural alternatives to steroids to help you with inflammation and itching, such as creams containing liquorice. These creams usually do not have such serious side effects.Infection is another common cause of flare-ups. Keeping on top of infections caused by scratching is thus important. An antiseptic bath twice a week can help reduce infections. And lets not forget nutrition. Studies indicate that changes to the fat balance in your diet may reduce eczema symptoms. That means increasing good fats in the diet such as those from salmon or tuna (or taking fish oil capsules) and decreasing bad fats from meat and fried foods.

    with Tania Adams, pharmacist [email protected]

    Health

  • Hibiscusmatters May 20, 2015 | 19

    09 421 9700 www.northernarena.co.nz

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    A shortage of volunteers has reduced the number of patrols that the Hibiscus Coast Community Patrol undertakes each week.

    Patrol needs new recruitsThe patrol, which has been active since 2008, acts as extra eyes and ears for the Police, and used to drive around the Dairy Flat to Puhoi and Red Beach to Waitoki areas on Friday and Saturday nights and during the day on Friday. Any potential trouble that is identified is passed onto Police.Currently there are around 18 volunteers available for duty, and at least 10 more are needed. Hibiscus Coast Community Patrol chair Frank Rands says that low numbers means that over the last couple of months, they have had to drop one of their weekend evening patrols traditionally the ones where most problems are spotted.He says in addition, the service recently lost some experienced patrollers, including Gavin White, who trained new recruits, and coordinator Margaret Stevens.Margarets replacement, Roger Ledbetter, is relatively new to Community Patrol and Frank says it takes time for new volunteers to get up to speed.Volunteers are required to commit two evenings per month while in training,

    then one evening per month from then on. At the moment, several of the patrollers are doing two a month to cover the shortfall.Frank says that its a role that volunteers find rewarding as a way of giving back to the community. Patrollers must be aged 25 or older and most are retirees; around half are women.We never get in the face of any trouble our job is to alert Police if we think theres an issue, he says.We are also trying to forge a relationship with Civil Defence and community response groups so that we are capable of assisting in a civil defence emergency, he says.Full training and wet weather gear is provided and patrols are in a fully equipped vehicle.Anyone interested in finding out more, email [email protected], phone Frank Rands, 021 761 161 or visit www.hbccommunitypatrol.org where there is a Join Us option. Alternatively contact Roger Leadbeater, ph 021 0700 211, email [email protected]

    Big climb raises fundsFire fighters from Manly and Silverdale brigades will join hundreds of others this week to take on the 51 flights of stairs at the Skytower. The annual Sky Tower Stair Challenge raises funds for the Leukaemia & Blood Cancer Foundation and could bring in around $750,000 this year, with around 750 fire fighters taking part. The challenge takes place on May 23 and will see the fire fighters battle their way up 1103 steps wearing full fire fighting kits and breathing apparatus weighing up to 25kg.

  • | Hibiscusmatters May 20, 201520

    Shop 2/707 Whangaparaoa Rd Ph 027 251 1780 | [email protected]

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    Delicious new menu with traditional pub style mains Small plates to share Great vegetarian and gluten free options Wide selection of wines, tap beers and ciders, including Monteiths, Tiger, Erdinger Weissbier and Rekorderlig Strawberry and Lime Cider.

    Members of the local photographic club are celebrating, after bringing home a number of wards in the prestigious Photographic Society of NZs National Exhibition.

    Win Cupids Arrows ticketsHausmusik NZ will perform Cupids Arrows, a selection of Baroque Italian love cantatas, at the Orewa Arts & Events Centre next month. Cantatas, usually sung by a soprano accompanied by harpsicord and one or more other instruments, were the pop music of their day. Italian composers were particularly popular and the concert features four of these as well as sonatas by Handel and Bach. The music is melodic and can be immediately appreciated by modern audiences. The concert is on June 1 at 5pm and the $20 ticket includes wine, juice and snacks. Tickets, email [email protected] or at the door. Hibiscus Matters has one double pass to give away. To go in the draw, write your name, address and daytime phone number on the back of an envelope and post to, Cupids Arrows, Hibiscus Matters, Unit G, Tamariki Plaza, Tamariki Ave, Orewa 0931. Or message us on Facebook. Entries close May 27.

    From left, award winners Brian Eastwood, Miriam Godfrey and Alan Dodunski.

    Lens focused on winning Coast photographers

    Just being accepted into the exhibition was an achievement more than 250 photographers presented around 1800 projected and print pictures, of which 531 were accepted to be judged.Seven Hibiscus Coast Photographic Club members had 13 pictures accepted: two received top awards and another an Honours ribbon. The results were announced at the beginning of April and the awards presented on May 1 at the Photographic Societys convention, held in Tauranga.Alan Dodunski was awarded the Best

    NZ Natural History Print with his picture of a NZ Dotterel with chicks this featured in Hibiscus Matters March 4 issue. Alan received the William C Davies Memorial Cup and Gold medal. Brian Eastwood won the Champion Projected Image with The Steps (HM February 4). Brian received the Robinson Cup and Gold medal. Miriam Godfrey received an Honours Ribbon for Pied Shag with Snapper. The other club members to receive acceptances to the exhibition were Jean Evans, Janet Munnings, Sue Riach and Jennifer Williams.

    Join us for services throughout

    the month:

    St Chads Orewa Sunday 8am & 9.30am

    Wednesday 9.30am

    Christ Church Waiwera 1st Sunday 11.15am

    Holy Trinity, Silverdale 2nd & 4th Sunday 9am

    For further information ph 426 4952

    [email protected]

  • Hibiscusmatters May 20, 2015 | 21

    ToTalspan Rodney pRoud sponsoRs of

    THE scorEBoArD

    ToTalspan Rodney 229 sTaTe HigHway 1 waRkwoRTH pHone 09 422 3149

    a Roundup of spoRTs acTiviTies in THe disTRicT

    To list sports news for FREE email: [email protected]

    A roundup of sports Activities in the districtFootball skillsHibiscus Coast AFC is running before, during and after school sessions at local schools during Term 2. More schools welcome. If youre interested, contact the sports co-ordinator at your school or Mauricio Rojas, email [email protected] to find out more.

    Cross Country RunningHibiscus Coast Athletic Clubs winter cross country programme began April 1 at Metro Park in Millwater, from 5.30pm. Training will be weekly on Wednesday nights. Membership open to those 7 to 17 years old. Info: www.hcac.co.nzWomens Outdoor PursuitsIf you enjoy the bush and would like to improve or refresh your skills in the outdoors, then join our WOPs Introductory Course running on Saturday May 23. WOPs is open to women of all ages throughout the Auckland area. Experienced trampers or beginners are welcome. Upon completion of the course, tramping trips are available to members on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. To enrol or for more information visit www.wops.co.nz

    We Service & Sell All Makes & Models of Cars, Diesels & 4WDs

    Phone 424 7748679 Whangaparaoa Road

    www.car-zone.co.nz

    Open Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm Sat 8am-12pm

    WOFs while you wait Cambelts CV Joints All Servicing & Repairs On-board Computer Scanning

    Clutches, Brakes & Suspension Tune-ups Tyres & Puncture Repairs Loan Cars Available

    Locally owned & operated for over 20 years

    The annual Hibiscus Hospice Art Exhibition and Sale is returning to Estuary Arts Centre in Orewa over Queens Birthday Weekend, with a few extra bells and whistles to mark the fact that the event has been running for a decade.

    Hospice art show turns 10

    The popular art exhibition is an important part of Hibiscus Hospices fundraising efforts, traditionally raising in excess of $20,000 each year. In recent times the proceeds have helped fund the Hospice Out Patient Clinic where locals can receive blood transfusions, medication infusions and specialist Lymphoedema massage therapies.This years additional 10th birthday celebrations for visitors to enjoy on May 30, 10am4pm, in a special marquee on site, include lucky dip birthday gifts and a display and sale of other arts and crafts, including art made by children and the arts of cake making, knitting, mosaics, needlework, preserving, quilting, recycling and woodturning.The exhibition itself features 30 artists, 12 of whom are new to the show.Alongside works using oils, acrylics, watercolours and graphite on paper, canvas and board, youll find works on oars, tapa, fibreglass, zincalume and steel. There are also ceramics, prints, photography glassware and jewellery. Works range in price from $30 to $3000.For first access to the sale, as well as a chance to bid on those donated for auction, a Preview and Auction Night will be held on May 28, 7pm9pm. Tickets include wine and hors doeuvres and are available for $25 from Hibiscus Hospice, phone 421 9180 or www.hibiscushospice.org.nzHibiscus Hospice Art Exhibition and Sale Estuary Arts Centre 214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa. May 29June 1

    A glimpse through the portholeAmong those whose work is featured at the Hospice Art Exhibition is Stanmore Bay artist Anna Evans. Anna is best known locally for her work with young people at the Art Lab in Whangaparaoa and a series of brightly coloured murals in places such as Whangaparaoa Hall, the Stanmore Bay reserve toilets and Whangaparaoa College.Anna has been teaching art since 2001 and says that lots of opportunities have opened up as a result. These include the production of eleven murals, 10 of which were done in collaboration with children