Plus Living+ Magazine, South and East Auckland Issue #1
Our stunning, brand-new Heritage Apartments are the final stage of the village, so if you are looking to secure a home at Summerset Heritage Park, this could be your last chance. Our Heritage Apartments offer you the opportunity to move into a brand-new, modern home in a lively and established village. We have one, two and three bedroom apartments available, as well as other premium options. With a luxurious design, resort style facilities, and Summerset’s renowned continuum of care, you’ll love the life at Summerset Heritage Park.
Plus, if you purchase a Heritage Apartment before 31 October 2022, you’ll pay no weekly fees for two years!*
For more information on this offer or to take a look through our show homes, visit us today or contact our Sales Manager, Lisa Nelson, on 09 950 7962.
Heritage Park 8 Harrison Road, Ellerslie 09 950 7962
09 950 7962 | summerset.co.nz/ellerslie
Navigating change
There’s good reason why old sayings survive to be ‘old’ and that’s because they tend to be true. One such utterance is “The only constant in life is change”.
If Heraclitus was still with us, he’d probably be a big fan of the last two years due to the constantly moving goalposts, which has resulted in the majority of us, at some point or another, having to adjust some of our most basic, ingrained behaviours.
So, in the spirit of another old saying, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em” this first issue of Plusliving for south and east Auckland looks at ways you can act and things you can change, in order to better navigate your way through days of change.
We look at simple ways to improve your headspace, how to connect with your inner creativity, the art and craft of goal setting, breaking bad habits, the big financial mistakes older people make, easy ways to stay connected to friends and family online, and much more.
Accounts: Jo Pritchard (03) 961 5161 | accounts@markat.co.nz
Welcome to Plusliving – the magazine dedicated to living well and ageing gracefully in modern society. Aimed at the 50+ age group, you’ll find articles covering all aspects of contemporary life, including physical health and wellbeing, mental health and acuity, home life, working life and finances, technology, travel, self-improvement and more. Our aim is to provide information anyone can use, on any given day, so you can get more out of life.
Does your company have any information or products you would like to feature in an upcoming edition of Plusliving+?
Please contact us to discuss getting your business in print
Disclaimer
This publication is provided on the basis that The Job Agency Ltd is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services. The Job Agency Ltd expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature articles are classified as advertising content and as such, information contained in them is subject to the Advertising Standards Authority Codes of Practice. Contents Copyright 2020 by The Job Agency Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.
Lifestyles
Zig Zag 120 Wall Storage
The Zig Zag wall unit is a modern storage solution to anything you’d like to showcase in your home – books, plants or whatever your heart desires. Made out of white and natural oak and created right here in New Zealand, the Zig Zag shelf and wall storage is available in Danske Mobler stores late September.
RRP: $2,249
www.danskemobler.co.nz
Mexican Matrimonial Hammock
This two-person, handwoven net hammock uses a traditional Mexican weave for a supportive and comfortable experience. Woven in Yucatán, Mexico, the open net ensures airflow, especially when lounging during sweltering hot days.
RRP: FROM $139.95
www.hammockshop.co.nz
Colony Pendant
Designed by Alex Buckman in Wellington, the Colony Pendant is made out of CNC machined aluminium surrounding an LED component. This award-winning 3D-printed shade, consisting of geometric shapes, will wow whether it’s lit or dormant.
RRP: $390
www.alexbuckman.com
DeLonghi La Specialista Manual Coffee Machine in Red
The La Specialista brings barista quality coffee to your kitchen. The sleek and modern design packs a powerhouse punch, with sensor grinding technology and active temperature control so your coffee is made to perfection for the best extraction. The advanced latte system lets you choose between hot milk or frothy milk.
RRP: $929.99
www.delonghi.com
This new contemporary table from Danske Mobler released post-lockdown is made from solid and veneer oak with a clear lacquer finish and matte black legs. This stylish rendition of a hall table comes from the Oakley line, where it was made here in New Zealand at Danske Mobler’s Mt Eden factory.
RRP: $2,099
www.danskemobler.co.nz
Seven steps
to emotional health
A healthier diet and regular exercise are arguably the most common personal aspirations, but improving your emotional and mental health shouldn’t be ignored, because exercise, diet and other tangible goals are then easier to meet.
The reason we make resolutions in the first place is to be happier, more creative, more aware of our direction in life and improve our sense of wellbeing. Arguably the largest obstacles to these are negative emotional states.
Negative emotions are hugely toxic to our health. It’s now commonly accepted that holding onto stress, resentment, anger and fear for years at a time can lead to myriad health problems, including high blood pressure, thyroid diseases, hair loss and heart disease.
In fact, it has become accepted by health professionals that most diseases in some way have a stress-related component. It’s surprising, then, that more of us don’t focus on improving our state of mind.
Seven resolutions to improve your headspace:
1. Prioritise your happiness and health
It’s important to decide for your health and happiness as number one. As simple as it sounds, if you don’t have these, you are not in a position to contribute to others or yourself. Everything stems from here.
2. Spend more time with the right people
Rather than resolving to spend more time with everyone – which can be exhausting – spend time with people who are naturally positive and uplifting, and who are going in the direction you want to go in. You’ll find these people have an energising effect on you.
3. Deal with toxic relationships
You can identify relationships by the way they make you feel. Stand your ground, set your boundaries and make it clear to them what behaviour you won’t accept – even with family. You may need to disengage altogether from particularly toxic people. Your health will thank you for it.
4. Reassess your happiness at work
This is must for those in a negative work culture that’s leaving them feeling overworked, uncertain of their future, anxious or stressed. It’s important to know that as an employee you can address the issue with your manager. If you know you can’t, it may be time to look for a healthier work environment.
5. Review your daily routine
It takes courage to admit there are decisions we ourselves make that deflate us emotionally – from accepting a job with a long commute, to running around too much, to not giving ourselves enough ‘down’ time every day, to spending too much and putting ourselves in financial stress. By resolving to develop a strategy to solve them, you can be in an entirely different place by the end of the year.
6. Don’t let any negative emotions control you
Negative emotions – however small – can overwhelm anything positive. Resolve to develop awareness of when you’re feeling upset or frustrated before it spoils your day. Examine what can you do personally to make yourself feel better. Each time you begin to feel down, take a walk in the park or go out in the sun to help centre you. Nature and movement nurture positive emotions.
7. Strengthen your relationships
Deep and meaningful relationships, not just with your life partner, but with all those close to you, are important for a fulfilling life. Make a list of all the factors you need for a meaningful relationship, identify what you do not want, and stick to your guns.
The13traitsof persuasive people
Persuasive people have an uncanny ability to get you leaning toward their way of thinking. Their secret weapon is likeability. They get you to like more than their ideas; they get you to like them.
1 2
They’re pleasers
Persuasive people never win the battle only to lose the war. They know how and when to stand their ground, and yet they are constantly making sacrifices that help their cause.
They aren’t pushy
Persuasive people establish their ideas assertively and confidently, without being aggressive or pushy.
They aren’t mousy, either
On the other hand, presenting your ideas as questions or as though they need approval makes them seem flawed and unconvincing. If you tend to be shy, focus on presenting your ideas as statements and interesting facts for the other party to mull over.
They know their audience
Persuasive people know their audience inside and out, and they use this knowledge to speak their audience’s language.
They paint a picture
Research shows that people are far more likely to be persuaded by something that has visuals that bring it to life. Persuasive people capitalise on this by using powerful visual imagery.
They use positive body language
Being cognizant of your gestures, expressions, and tone of voice (and making certain they’re positive) will engage people and open them up to your arguments.
They smile
Persuasive people smile a lot because they have genuine enthusiasm for their ideas. This has a contagious effect on everyone they encounter.
They acknowledge your point of view
An extremely powerful tactic of persuasion is to concede the point. Admit that your argument is not perfect. This shows that you are open minded and willing to make adjustments, instead of stubbornly sticking to your cause.
They ask good questions
People like to know you’re listening, and something as simple as a clarification question shows not only that you are listening, but also that you care about what they’re saying. You’ll be surprised how much respect and appreciation you gain just by asking questions.
They use your name
Persuasive people make certain they use others’ names every time they see them. You shouldn’t just use someone’s name only when you greet him or her.
They form connections
No matter how compelling your argument, if you fail to connect on a personal level, he or she will doubt everything you say.
They are genuine
No one likes a fake. People gravitate toward those who are genuine because they know they can trust them.
They know when to pull back Urgency is a direct threat to persuasion, so tread lightly. When you try to force people to agree instantly, studies show that they are actually more likely to stand by their original opinion.
Little changes with big consequences
Four simple ways to improve your health
By simply examining a few health facts and implementing some simple lifestyle changes each day can make a difference to your overall health.
1
Meditation minimises disease
Meditation is a phenomenal way to instantly take control of your health. Studies indicate that a mere 20 minutes of quiet time a day can halve the risk of heart attack or stroke by reducing high blood pressure and cholesterol.
In countries such as India and China, meditation has been used for centuries as a way to lower stress levels and improve concentration.
Scientists have found that transcendental meditation, which promotes deeper relaxation through mantras, is even more beneficial for the mind and body.
Tests show that sufferers of atherosclerosis were able to reduce their risk of a fatal heart attack or stroke by 47 percent, compared to those who simply followed a healthy diet and exercise programme.
2
Replace hazardous laundry detergents
Certain liquid laundry detergents contain cancer-causing chemicals. Research shows that these harmful cleaning aids contain around 25 volatile compounds, which may make people sick.
Fumes from washing machines and dryers release harmful chemicals, such as acetaldehyde, into the atmosphere, which may also find their way into the water supply. Shop for safer, less dangerous detergents, which will help your health and the environment too.
3
Juice your own fruits and vegetables for better health
Buying a carton of juice from the store can be hazardous to your health. Just because the label says “100% pure” or “freshly squeezed” does not mean it is true.
In processing orange juice, for example, most manufactures remove all the oxygen molecules from the liquid, which allows the juice to be stored for up to a year. As this process strips the juices of their flavors, juice companies then add fragrance and flavor additives to the product.
Avoid processed, stored products and take the time to juice your own fruits and vegetables as a great kick-start to better health.
Reduce beer consumption and drink alcohol in moderation
Heavy beer drinkers risk liver damage and a bigger beer belly.
According to experts who studied the health of more than 500,000 people between the ages of 35 to 70, it was found that those who drank 30g of pure alcohol a day from beer had a massive 75 percent increased risk of developing stomach cancer.
Worse still, heavy beer drinkers with a particular gene variant in the cluster of three genes that metabolize alcohol have an even greater chance of getting stomach cancer, according to the American Association for Cancer Research.
Ideally, all alcohol should be taken with food, such as a glass of wine with a meal, and spirits should be enjoyed in moderation.
Mind over matter - how to connect with your inner creativity
Hmmm… thinking. Too much of it can create problems which weren’t there in the first place and too little may mean missing out on a good opportunity. But what happened to a little downtime and those “eureka!” moments?
Instead of forcing your brain to conjure up creative genius “on demand” you need to create thinking space where your mind can rest and let the magic flow.
Here are a few ideas to get your magic happening:
Write – although you shouldn’t expect answers to show their pretty little face immediately after you have asked a question, jotting down your thoughts allows you to de-stress, clarify your thoughts and solve problems (fingers crossed). Writing a pros and cons list can also help to evaluate and make better decisions.
Choose a location – it’s been said that some of the greatest ideas are thought of while walking. A simple change in scenery, whether it be a brisk walk around the block, working out at the gym, relaxing in the botanical garden or quiet place, can give you a mental boost and change your mood.
Avoid “eating al desko” – and don’t pretend you don’t do it. You’re probably reading this at your desk right now, aren’t you? It may be easy to drop your elbows onto your desk and munch away while scouring the Internet for interesting reads, but you’ve just been staring at the computer since 7.30am.
Take longer showers – think of a shower as an incubator. It makes you feel all fuzzy with warmth and essentially creates the right conditions to let our minds trigger creative wanderings. It’s an unwritten rule; give it a go and you might be surprised.
Stare into space – we’re not talking about people-watching out of your office window, although this may amuse and stimulate you for a couple of minutes. Concentrating takes a lot of our energy, so we need to focus more energy on doing, actually, nothing at all and generally just let your mind wander for a while.
Take your mind away from automatic tasks – our inner ninja is ready to pounce on emails, voicemails, messages and paperwork that come our way, and we keep pushing back relentlessly until it’s a full-on workout before you know it.
Stimulate your mind and take yourself away for a while: play a game of cards, listen to music, and chat with friends or colleagues, anything that isn’t already in your routine.
Setting yourself up forsuccess
Many of us have good intentions or some idea of where we would like to be in 10 years, but only three to five percent of people have clearly defined, established goals set in place.
It is crucial to set definitive long-term goals for ourselves to ensure we have the appropriate sailing attire ready for when that sunset finally arrives.
If you haven’t yet written your goals down (and it’s the writing down that’s the critical bit) use these steps and get started – it’s easier than you think:
1. Find a quiet spot. Whether it is your office or bedroom or favourite park, you need to be somewhere you feel comfortable and where the ideas will flow. Limit interruptions; don’t attempt it while other people are trying to engage with you, and remember to turn off your phone.
2. Think as far into your future as you can. At least a year out and ideally much further ahead. What do you want your life or business to look like in five or 10 years?
3. Write your goals down. Many people question the significance of this, but the reason for it is that putting your thoughts down on paper forces clarity. Similarly, there is nothing more rewarding or motivating than physically ticking off your goals one by one.
When writing goals many people tend to focus on only the professional aspects of their lives. It pays to look at the bigger picture, as for many of us, our work and home lives are intertwined, especially if running a business from home. Structure helps us think.
4. Don’t limit yourself. Forget ‘realistic’ for now. Nothing is too small or too large. Dream big. It isn’t your imminent tasks or relatively easy projects we’re interested in at this stage.
5. Be very specific. Goals need to be specific and larger goals should be broken down in to small, achievable blocks that you can work towards on a weekly or monthly basis.
Are you looking for ways to keep active within your current lifestyle?
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Breaking bad habits
We all have our own little habits – the good and the bad - and it’s these habits that make us who we are. But whether we are willing to acknowledge it or not, many of us have one (or maybe a few), bad habits that would do us good to break.
We might perceive our habits to be small, insignificant compulsions, but when repeated continuously our actions do have a significant impact on who we are as people. And whether we like to admit it or not, our habits mould us into the people we are.
From drinking excessively or routinely staying up all night, resulting in poor performance at work the following day, to procrastination, overspending, swearing, or binge eating - whatever the vice - if it is having a harmful effect on your work and personal life, it is time to break free of the negative behaviour pattern.
Here are five tips to help break free.
Create a plan - Once you’ve acknowledged the problem and got yourself into the right state of mind to tackle the habit, a plan can be useful to disrupt the automatic response to it.
Five steps to break free
my actions? Who else will be involved in the process? What rewards for success will I give myself? A clear plan with create the discipline needed to succeed.
Plan your approach by answering the following questions: What day do I start? Will I go cold turkey? How will I hold myself accountable for 1 2 3 4 5
Identify your trigger - Understanding what fuels your bad habit is the key to overcoming it. Identify the trigger, whether it is people or a place, which enables the habit and avoid it.
Change your environment - If you repeat the same behaviour in the same place every time, then the environment can prompt the undesirable behaviour. Avoiding the environment that triggers your habit can help towards kicking the cycle.
Retrain your thoughts - Even if we know a habit is damaging us physically or emotionally, we continue to do it. Why? Because despite the obvious drawbacks, it still provides us with some sort of satisfaction or psychological reward that entices us to repeat the behaviour again and again. Reframing your mind to put emphasis on the negative aspects should, over time, diminish the psychological reward received from acting out the habit.
Be patient - Be patient with yourself and don’t beat yourself up too much if you slip up and fall back into the habit – it’s called a habit for a reason. Established habits can be hard to break as they are ingrained into your life. It may take several attempts to make a change so be patient and persist.
Staying safe around the home
The old expression ‘home is where the heart is’ is well and good, just so long as you watch your step!
Injuries in and around the home are the biggest cause of ACC claims –accounting for over 40 percent of all new claims received in 2011.
What may surprise many is the risk associated with seemingly benign objects, such as rugs and power cords, which can cause a fall-related injury at any time of the year.
It’s not just older and younger people who fall at home – over 40 percent of all home falls happened to people aged 25-64 years.
An injury can completely change your life for a while. It can stop you from doing the things you enjoy, like catching up with friends or playing with your children.
People often need to take time off work too, affecting their income. ACC figures show 10,000 people are off work for a week or more because of a fall at home.
The good news is there are some simple things you can do around the home to greatly reduce the risk of you or someone in your family having a fall.
Are you tired of being stuck in the Auckland traffic wherever you drive?
Not looking forward to the pending traffic congestion charging?
Are you over public transport that won’t realistically get you to where you want to go in a timely manner?
It’s time to cash up and move to a less stressful and more relaxed lifestyle in provincial New Zealand.
My name is David Kerr and I am a licensed sales person at Ray White here in Auckland.
With the help of the Ray White agency network, I can connect you to a Ray White agent almost anywhere in the country to help you find your next dream home !
We are blessed to live in one of the most stunning countries in the world where beaches & bays, golf courses & vineyards, and the lakes & rivers await you !
Toptips on creating a safer home
Remove moss
• Waterblast, scrub or spray mossy areas with moss removal products
• Cut trees and shrubs back to prevent shade – conditions which moss thrives in
• Build new decks with grooved timber.
Secure power cords
• Get cords out of harm’s way, with cord clips, quick-release power cords or multi-boxes
• Secure loose cords or wires to the wall.
Fasten rugs and mats
• Secure them with anti-slip tape, or spray on a non-slip coating
• Use carpet grips for mats
• Repair damaged carpet on stairs
• If you’re buying a new rug, look for one with a non-slip backing.
Avoid using chairs as ladders
• Use a ladder or step ladder to reach high objects
• Store heavy, regularly used objects down lower
• Use long-life smoke alarms and light bulbs so you don’t have to change them often.
Wipe up spills
• Wipe up spills as soon as they happen, with mops, sponges or cloths
• Use floor mats to absorb excess water
• If renovating, install non-slip flooring in wet rooms (bathroom, kitchen and laundry).
Would you choose Coromandel over Banks Peninsula or the East Cape? or Kapiti Coast over Waihi Beach or Ohope?
Call me now to book a free no obligation appraisal and discuss your many options!
Is it time for you to get a property manager for your investment?
In New Zealand, property has proven to be a great investment opportunity with it rarely decreasing in value. Over time, some people have even amassed a portfolio of properties providing a steady income stream that is especially welcome during retirement years.
However, management of properties and dealing with repairs can prove daunting. Not dealing with maintenance issues can lead to depreciation and problems can compound. Is it time for you to consider a property manager?
What exactly does a property manager do?
In essence the role is meant to protect your property, reduce and eliminate any potential liability and secure the most income possible from your property that the market will support. Your property manager would handle all of the day-to-day management and maintenance on your behalf. They also answer tenants’ queries, oversee maintenance quotes and manage tradespeople. When you have the right company and person looking after your investment, the experience should be worry-free. Handling any uncomfortable situations such as evictions and non-payment of rent, is a major benefit. They also market your property and ensure that you are receiving the most rental revenue possible. Most importantly, they vet tenants checking their ability to meet bond and rent requirements.
What do the fees include?
Not all companies offer the same services, but a typical package should look like the following:
• All costs related to finding the ideal tenant. This includes signage, print and digital advertising and also the letting fee.
• Online listings on the most high traffic sites in the industry such as realestate.co.nz, Barfoot.co.nz and Trademe.co.nz
• Tenant selection and vetting processes including interviews, reference and credit checks
• Regular routine inspections with a full report including photos
• Monthly and annual financial reports
• All Department of Building and Housing documentation and legislative compliance guidance
• Representation at Tribunal hearings, if required
• Regular rent reviews and consultation.
Not all property management companies are created equal
It may surprise most people to know that the property management business is unregulated in New Zealand. This means that anyone can set up shop and begin to solicit clients to care for their properties. This often happens without the expertise and knowledge necessary to properly protect a landlord’s precious investment. It can also leave tenants with inadequate service and without even basic maintenance. It is clear that without proper vetting and regular inspections, the wrong tenants can damage your investment. It is critically important that the company you choose is one with a proven track record and a commitment to best practice. Ask for references and for information about their property portfolio so you can be sure that they are already handling comparable properties. Get a list of services and ask about their reporting schedule. Good communication will give you peace of mind.
Want to know more?
Barfoot & Thompson is the industry leader in the Auckland and Northland regions and now Tauranga for property management, with over 18,000 properties in our portfolio. We have an impeccable reputation and operate with the principles of honesty and transparency. Call us today for more information and for an obligation-free chat about all that we offer.
You can also visit Barfoot.co.nz/propertymanagement to find out more
Saving made simple
Whether you’re trying to pay off a debt or build your savings, sometimes saving money is simply about changing your mindset and bad habits to achieve financial freedom in the long term.
Here are a few money traps to avoid:
Coffee/lunch - $4.50 for a latte or $8.50 for a panini may not sound like much, but if you’re buying them everyday the total weekly cost is fairly significant. Times this by four and then by 12 and the yearly expenditure comes to around $3,000! Treat yourself every now and again, but think about where you’re better off spending your money.
Dining out - Sometimes we tell ourselves that we deserve a treat and say this at the end of every week just because it’s Friday. Eating out
Dollars and sense
Spending too much - Pretty obvious, do your homework and budgeting. Be smart and find independent advice to help you monitor how fast you are spending your money. Then if you “live too long” hopefully you won’t have to live out your golden years in poverty.
Spending too much on housing - Not much good owning a $500,000 house and having only $50,000 in the bank to supplement your (rather lean) government super. Don’t get to retirement living in a castle with too little cash to supplement your super.
Worrying too much - The news media will drag you into the mire. Turn the news off and get out and about.
Not
learning enough about investment before retirement - Knowledge is power. Learn about investments as you save for retirement, and probably avoid the disaster some people incurred when they put all their money into one or to finance companies.
Helping children too much and leaving yourself short - Love them or not, they may have 25 to 40 years of working life in front of them, you don’t. Be careful; keep enough money back for yourself.
can be a fine thing, and eating at home takes effort and planning, but at least you know exactly what’s going into your food. And your bank balance will thank you for it.
Not checking what you spend - Many of us probably don’t bother to check receipts and often leave them to decay at the bottom of our bags until we find them a month later and discard them accordingly. If you can’t be fussed handling a draw full of receipts, at least check your bank account online to keep an eye on exactly what you’re spending. If money is leaving your account and you don’t even recognise where it’s gone, be mindful when you spend from now on.
Don’t be influenced - Will Smith said, “We spend money that we do not have, on things we do not need, to impress people who do not care.” Just because your friend bought the latest flat screen TV doesn’t mean you have to follow suit. Don’t be a sheep and follow your own path.
The big financial mistakes older people make
Not getting on-going financial and planning advice leading up to retirement - If you fail to plan, then plan to fail. Get advice – if it costs say $150 to $200 pa that is peanuts compared to what it might do for you. It might get you organised and might even save you tens of thousands.
Failing to understand what diversification really means - You can’t pick the hot investments; no one can. Rather diversify properly, and you will make good money in good times, and survive the bad times pretty well too.
Not living and spending too little - You can’t take it with you. Get advice and find out how much you can safely spend if you are worried.
Believing that you can (or the “experts” can) pick the hot investments - No one can – buy quality and diversify widely. Beware of some apparently wonderful companies as the costs can be too high. After all someone has to pay for their big buildings and glossy brochures – and it will be you.
The Papatoetoe Cosmopolitan Club
Your local community club where you will always get a friendly welcome
Trading hours
• Monday to Wednesday: 12noon – 10pm
• Thursday to Friday: 12noon – 11.30pm
• Saturday: 11am – 12am
• Sunday: 12pm – 9pm Please note closing times may vary...
The Papatoetoe Cosmopolitan Club is a friendly and welcoming club in the heart of the Papatoetoe Community. If you are looking for a place to catch up with mates or celebrate good times, our club is the place to be. We showcase live sports tournaments and offer great meals and drinks during your time with us. We provide a full TAB service area, TAB Pod and five screens. We also have 16 gaming machines in our gaming room.
Bistro
Our head chef and his team prepare a full range of meals and snacks your family can enjoy. Do not forget to check out our weekly specials on our Facebook and Instagram page @papatoetoecossieclub
• Monday and Tuesday: 5pm – 8pm
• Wednesday to Sunday: 12noon – 8:30pm.
Gym
Why spend heaps of money on a gym membership when it’s available at your Club! Our gym is open every day 12pm – 8pm.
Library
The perfect, quiet environment for you to wind down and read. Open during trading hours.
Functions
Our venues are great for birthdays, weddings, social get-togethers, conferences & corporate events.
• Discounted prices for members
• The best dance floor in town
• Your choice of catering provided by our head chef
• Bluetooth boombox, Mic system, projector & stereo system available.
Restaurant
Our restaurant is a relaxing, private area for birthdays, engagements, anniversaries and much more. It holds up to 100 people comfortably, and you can decorate the room however you wish. A wide range of on-site food options is available. A small band can entertain in the corner.
Lounge bar
Dance the night away on the “best dance floor in Auckland”. Enjoy professional entertainment, top bar facilities and excellent meals and snacks in our large entertainment lounge. Our lounge bar can seat up to 200 people. Our wide selection of menus and on-site catering offers you affordable packages to suit each budget. Our aim is to provide exceptional service to ensure your day is a huge success!
Contact our functions manager, Jenny Robinson at operations@ papcossie.co.nz to make a booking today.
Sections
Our Club offers sections for you to join: 8 Ball | Tennis | Snooker | Darts | Indoor & Outdoor Bowls | Fishing | Golf | League | Punters | Day Trippers | South City Soundz | Table Tennis.
Membership Applications
As a member, you will receive discounts and much more freedom with our facilities - cheaper function room hire, membership draws, raffles, prizes from bar promotions, more parking availability and so much more! Our club welcomes new members, current members and their guests, as well as visitors from affiliated clubs.
Don’t miss out on any of the opportunities our Club has to offer and become a member today!
• Seniors (65+): $35
• Ordinary Members (18+): $70.
Membership applications are at our front desk or available online: www.papcossie.co.nz
Staying connected
Keeping in touch with your loved ones, even when they’re far away, has never been easier. While nothing can quite beat face to face communication, technology has made it so you can connect with who you want in real time.
So here are different options for online communication that you can use with your computer or on your smart phone, from video chatting to messaging.
FaceTime - From the ever-popular iPhone to devices such as the iPad and MacBook, chances are someone you know and care about uses an Apple device.
That’s the beauty of FaceTime, Apple’s video chat software that comes preinstalled on all their devices (at least from 2010 onwards); you can easily video chat with anyone that has an Apple device, no matter where they are in the world.
If you have one, open up your iPhone, iPad or Macbook and log into your Apple ID account. If you’ve already set up your device before this, use FaceID or TouchID to log into FaceTime.
To make a FaceTime call, either search the name if they’re already in your contacts, or type in their number or email.
Facebook Messenger - With over 2.4 billion monthly active users, Facebook is the most popular social network site worldwide. Beyond the website, did you know that the Facebook Messenger app makes it easy to message, video chat and call your friends?
One great thing about Facebook Messenger is it’s not limited to just iPhones – anyone with a smartphone and a Facebook account can download it. Once you have an account, sign in and set up your contact list, also known as your Facebook friends.
If you don’t have a smartphone or don’t want to download the app, you can also video chat through the website.
Skype - Skype was one of the first video chat websites and apps popularised worldwide. Owned by Microsoft, it comes preinstalled to your computer if you have a PC. If you have a Mac, it’s easily available for download. You can also download it on your Apple or Android device.
Another feature that makes Skype unique is you can affordably and easily make international calls to people who don’t have Skype. For example, 0800 numbers are free to call.
If you don’t have an account already, you can create one for free. Alternatively, you can use your Microsoft/Hotmail/Outlook account to sign in. Once you’re all set up, search for friends and family who already use Skype.
WhatsApp - The Facebook-owned app recently hit two billion users worldwide. What makes it so popular was that it was the first to offer messaging, voice calls and more exclusively for smartphones when it arrived in 2009.
Mainly people use WhatsApp for texting, especially while abroad. The best thing about WhatsApp is its ease of use. All you need for your account is to enter your Apple or Android devices telephone number, and it verifies who you are through that. If you change your mobile number, you can change that as well to keep your account up to date.
From there, WhatsApp accesses your contacts for you and connects you to people who already use the app, making it a streamlined process.
An occasion to say goodbye
At Aroha Funerals, the staff believe that death and dying are hugely significant times in our lives.
While death is a natural part of life, it can still be a difficult and emotional time for those experiencing it. Saying a final goodbye can be one of the hardest things to do. They believe it is important to honour and celebrate someone’s life but also to remember that in amongst the celebration, there is sadness and grief.
They feel privileged to work alongside families at this important time, and to help them ‘tailor make’ a funeral or farewell, to suit both the loved one who has died and the people who are living. They are committed to making the process as natural and gentle as possible and will help to create an occasion to say goodbye, in a way that is unique, individual and heartfelt.
They offer a range of services and options to help families and know that no single approach is right for every family. A funeral is unlike any other event; it must encapsulate so much, in such a short period of time and still reflect who the person was in life.
An important aspect of this work for the staff at Aroha Funerals is their commitment to eco-friendly practices. Like many of us, they are part of the movement to be more aware of our finite resources and to find ways to minimise our negative impact on the environment. They have many caskets that are made of NZ sustainable produced pine, they drive an electric car, use local florists, caterers and crematoriums and generally do not embalm people – using cooling methods instead.
They welcome visits to their Takanini and Mt Wellington branches and phone calls from people wishing to know more about funerals, or to make plans. Knowing about the options available, writing down some ideas and meeting the staff can all help put minds at rest. Reducing stress at a difficult time is what the staff here aim to do.
Dr Mutu-Grigg has been performing hip and knee replacements for over a decade. He was trained in New Zealand and received fellowship from the world-renowned University of Western Ontario in Canada. He has a specific interest in total hip replacements and uses the Mathys hip replacement, which is the ultimate in Swiss engineering. For his knee replacements he uses 3rd generation computer navigation system during surgery to make sure your knee is placed within 0.5 degrees of perfect.
If you have pain in your hip or your knee, don’t continue to suffer, make an appointment to get your life back on track today!
Dr John Mutu-Grigg BHB, MBChB, FRACS
Orthopaedic Hip and Knee Replacement Surgeon
• New Zealand Orthopaedic Association (NZOA) Council
• NZOA Speciality Orthopaedic Training Board
• NZOA Education Committee
• Ngā Rata Kōiwi (Māori Orthopaedic Surgeons) Chair
• Royal Australasian College of Surgeons - Indigenous Health Committee
• Royal Australasian College of Surgeons - Māori Health Advisory Group - Chair
• Australia New Zealand Journal of Surgery Specialty Editor
Providing you with peace of mind
At Propertyscouts Manukau, the team understand that owning a rental investment can be a lot of work, and choosing a Property Manager to manage your investment can seem overwhelming.
Ani Armstrong is a multi-property investor with over 15 years in Customer Service. After 5 years managing properties for herself and loved ones, Ani decided that it was time to forge her own path by joining Propertyscouts and starting the Manukau Franchise.
Having lived in Manurewa for over 30 years, Ani considers herself a proud local, and enjoys being a part of this strong, supportive community. Her goal is to minimise South Auckland’s negative reputation by showcasing the beautiful area, as well as all that reside here.
Her goal is to minimise South Auckland’s negative reputation by showcasing the beautiful area, as well as all that reside here.
Propertyscouts Manukau are so confident in their service, that they are one of the few property managers in New Zealand, to offer owners Guaranteed Rent. As they do not sell real-estate, they only manage rental investments, it is the sole focus of their business, and they are specialists at what they do.
As they have a decade of experience taking care of our own rental investments, they know this gives them the edge needed to provide our property owners the peace of mind that they will look after their investment as if it was their own, and they back this with our guaranteed rent.
Our other key point, is that they do not add fees or mark up any thirdparty property maintenance – which means that you save more and they have no incentive to “fix” more than necessary.
Ani and the team at Propertyscouts Manukau pride themselves on looking after investment properties for South Auckland. Feel free to call Ani today to talk about how Propertyscouts Manukau can provide you with peace of mind.
With this in mind, Propertyscouts Manukau offer you the security of being part of a Nationwide Franchise with the hands on, commonsense approach you need for your rental property to be successful. They have all the depth of the larger companies, offering the latest Property Management Software and years of rental management experience, with the smaller, owner-operator work ethic successful business are grown on.
A snapshot of Propertyscouts Manukau’s services:
• Rental appraisals
• Advertising and promoting rental properties
• Corresponding with and meeting potential tenants
• Showing available rental properties to potential tenants
• Tenant vetting (reference and credit checks)
• Preparation of Tenancy agreements and bond collection
• Maintaining a tenancy database
• Property inspections including where appropriate organising repairs and maintenance
• Payment of invoices on behalf of owners (rates, insurance, maintenance etc.)
• Rent collecting (we have a policy of zero tolerance to rent arrears)
• Exit inspections and bond refunds.
Client testimonial:
“I had a product recall situation that was in my rental, Ani took over the process and kept me informed the entire time. I enjoy our chats as she is always bubbly and happy in her role. Definitely recommend her and her company.”
- Kate
Modernising our rental laws
By Jen Baird, chief executive of the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand
The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) was introduced in 1986 when the world was a very different place.
Most people owned their own homes and only a relatively small proportion of people rented.
Fast forward nearly 20 years and more people rent than ever before (around 35 percent), which is why the Government announced a number of changes via the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020, most of which came into effect on February 11, 2021.
The amendments introduced a number of positive changes for those renting, including a ban on rental bidding, limiting rent increases to once every 12 months, and making rental properties safer and more liveable for tenants. This has given tenants more certainty than they had in the past. However, as can be the case with new legislation, there are some changes which have caused concern.
The most significant and controversial proposal was the recommendation to end the no-cause 90-day notice. For many landlords, the 90-day notice was only used as a last resort when there was antisocial, aggressive or threatening behaviour by a tenant (or those they associate with). Often that behaviour has a detrimental impact on others living in the neighbourhood.
The removal of the 90-day no-cause termination notice will influence landlords and property managers’ decisions around choosing tenants, including tenants who have caused only minor issues in past tenancies.
In the vast majority of circumstances, landlords used “no-cause” termination notices as a way of bringing a tenancy to an end for serious issues. Competent landlords always prefer to have a property tenanted, and would prefer to fix problems raised by tenants and work through issues proactively, so in the past they would have only used the 90-day notice when absolutely required.
The changes will have already caused huge administrative costs for property managers/landlords over the last several months, plus the time it takes to completely understand the changes, has likely meant that some landlords have been deterred from leasing properties at all. REINZ considers a better approach would have been to provide higher exemplary damages, to penalise landlords who abused the no-cause terminations.
The other key change causing concern among industry professionals is the automatic conversion of fixed-term tenancies to periodic tenancies. Under this change, tenants have up until 28 days before the end of a fixed-term lease to let the landlord or property manager know whether or not they are wanting to stay in the property and convert to a period agreement.
Essentially, this decision is up to the tenant; the landlord no longer has the automatic right to end the tenancy at the end of the fixed term agreement – this can now only be done via the same processes that one would go through to terminate a periodic tenancy.
REINZ continues to provide feedback on the implications of the changes to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, and will continue to work with the appropriate government agencies to help streamline the transition and provide clear messaging on the changes.
• Rental appraisals
• Advertising and promoting rental properties
• Corresponding with and meeting potential tenants
• Showing available rental properties to potential tenants
• Tenant vetting (reference and credit checks)
• Preparation of Tenancy agreements and bond collection
• Maintaining a tenancy database
• Property inspections including where appropriate organising repairs and maintenance
• Payment of invoices on behalf of owners (rates, insurance, maintenance etc.)
• Rent collecting (we have a policy of zero tolerance to rent arrears)
• Exit inspections and bond refunds
Business Owner/Sales
Why Harcourts Port Property Management?
Choosing the right company to manage your investment property is a big decision. You should feel confident that the company managing your investment is a good fit for you.
About Harcourts Port Property Management
Our team place an enormous amount of emphasis on taking the time to listen and understand clients’ individual needs. Service is important to us and managing one of your greatest assets is a responsibility not taken lightly. We pride ourselves on our prompt and direct communication.
The landscape in which we operate is ever-changing, property management has become more than simply coordinating tenancies and rental payments. You need to feel confident that the rental company that you choose to use is across all current legislation so your investment does not become a liability. Our property managers are equipped with the ability to manage the unique balance between helping landlords achieve their long-term financial goals, but also ensuring that they meet their many legal obligations. This means you can be calm in knowing that you have hired the best possible people to manage your property-all the stress taken care off.
Harcourts Port Property Management is a trusted real estate agency. We’re committed to providing the best customer service and achieving the best possible outcome for your needs. Harcourts is an independently owned, full-service real estate agency. Our local agents are experts at understanding their local area, including all its features and benefits, as well as what it takes to sell or buy a home there. Harcourts Port Property Management Limited is dedicated to providing outstanding Property Management Service to all customers.
Not happy with your property manager or management company? Changing to Port Property Management is easy – we’ll do the work for you.
Contact us today to find out more: Pukekohe – Waiuku – Clarks Beach +64 9 238 4243 rentals.ppm@harcourts.co.nz
Peace of mind investing
Since 1996 First Mortgage Trust have been helping New Zealanders protect their nest egg and grow their wealth.
We have a disciplined, conservative investment approach with a proven track record – in our 25 years we have never lost any investor capital.*
We focus on what we know is important to our clients - consistent returns and steady income-focused funds that are accessible when they’re needed.
What we offer investors:
• Regular income – each quarter we distribute returns, or you can choose to have them reinvested.
• Mortgage-backed investment - risk is one of the highest concerns for investors. Our funds are backed by first mortgages with relatively conservative loan to valuation ratios that can help provide peace of mind investing.
• Proven consistent returns - our conversative approach means we’ve been able to provide investors with consistent returns for over 25 years.
• Flexibility – start with a minimum investment of $500 and after that you can make further contributions at any time that suits you.
• Accessibility - your investment is not fixed term - although we do encourage you to invest for medium to long-term growth outcomes.
We’re here to help you grow your wealth
If you are looking for an investment offering consistent returns, or want to learn more about investing with First Mortgage Trust, contact our friendly team on 0800 321 113 or visit fmt.co.nz
* Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
Napier i-SITE
Is it time to start planning your next Kiwi holiday?
Could you use a helping hand –one which won’t cost you a thing?
Some people seem to take as much pleasure researching and booking trips as they do with their destination – but if you’re not one of them, it may be time for you to get in touch with the friendly and well-informed staff at Napier’s i-SITE.
They have many years of experience in the industry and knowledge between them, says manager Jane Libby, and they
have visited almost every corner of Aotearoa. With all this first hand knowledge about places to go and things to do, you can trust the advice you’re being offered is sound.
As specialists, they can tailor your bookings just for you, book any activity, tour or accommodation nationwide – all with no booking or credit card fees.
They can cater for every need, whether you’re travelling as an individual, a duo, a family unit or in a group. They are definitely in the know when it comes to special deals, including combos and multitour booking discounts.
the
Meet Marion. Let her book you on a Great New Zealand Walk.
Meet Richard. He loves exploring and specialises in accommodation.
With all this first hand knowledge about places to go and things to do, you can trust the advice you’re being offered is sound.
“Apart from flights, we can help you whatever your needs – if you’re curious about a farm stay or a particular rail trail, prefer luxury or no frills, easygoing or thrillseeking adventures,” says Jane.
For your convenience the i-SITE, located on Marine Parade, is open 7 days a week, 9am to 5pm. Or give them a call on 834 1911, or email info@napiernz.com.
Looking after our local community and domestic travellers is a top priority, says Jane.
Meet Manette. She can plan a trip for you to the Bay of Islands, including the best scenic photo locations.
Meet Manette. She can plan a trip for you to any destination in New Zealand, including the best scenic photo locations.
“Once you’ve told us a little about what you like, or prefer, we may also be able to suggest some hidden gems, the ones that are well worth checking out but for whatever reason tend to fly under the radar.”
What to look for in a real estate agent
By Jen Baird, chief executive of the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand
Your home is often your largest personal asset, so selling it can be both exciting and stressful at the same time.
That’s why having an agent that you can trust to help you achieve the best price and conditions possible for your home – all while being transparent and ensuring all parties are comfortable and aware of the processes, will make a big difference.
Certain attributes differentiate a great agent from a good agent. We recommend that you look for agents who demonstrate a great deal of professionalism, local knowledge and have a good reputation. Look for someone who understands the kind of people who will be interested in your home. This will help with the marketing of your home and communicating the benefits of your property to potential buyers.
Local agents often have a network of potential buyers that they have been working with or regularly communicate with, who are ready and able to provide the best price for your home.
Great real estate agents are well connected, therefore asking family and friends if they know an agent they would recommend is a great start; referrals are often the best way to find an agent with a proven track-record, and not just someone who knows how to say the right things at the right time.
When asking for recommendations, remember to ask what factors their recommendation is based on. Did they get the level of communication they wanted? Did they think the agent used the marketing spend effectively? Did they manage any challenges through the process well?
Agents are usually more than happy to come to your property, share their knowledge and talk you through your options for selling. We recommend meeting a few agents before you choose who to work with.
Try visiting open homes they are hosting to understand how they present their vendor’s property. This will help you get a feel for how they will work to get the best for your property.
Take a look online and see how agents are using social media and digital marketing to increase coverage for the properties they are selling, and therefore see what you could expect for your home. Many agents will also use advanced technology to help market and sell your home, which can often reach a broader audience, for example:
• Virtual Reality tours or 3D walkthroughs are one of the options that increase the accessibility of an open home to a wider range of potential purchasers in the first instance, particularly out of town buyers
• Augmented Reality is another option that can help potential purchasers rework the layout of furniture in the home, so they can better picture themselves and their belongings in the home.
Try not to select an agent based solely on their commission fee, but it is important to understand what the fees are. While these do vary by agency, our advice is to choose an agent you trust and whose previous work gives you confidence.
Great agents can achieve a better price for your property by understanding the best strategies according to different market conditions.
At the end of the day, the person you choose is going to be a big part of your life while you sell your home, so it is important that you feel comfortable with them and that you can trust them to get the job done.
Deborah Andrew Barfoot
& Thompson
My real estate career began here in Waiuku in March 1998. Prior to real estate, I worked in finance and customer service roles.
I enjoy meeting people, introducing them to our town, assisting with a purchase or sale of a property and welcoming them to our community.
After eight years of successful selling, I stepped up and took on the role of Manager for the Barfoot & Thompson Waiuku office. After seven years of leading the team, I desired more freedom so returned to my passion. With a friendly personality and empathy for others, I love working with people offering a professional client-centred experience to achieve a smooth transition to their next stage of home ownership.
Barfoot & Thompson has been my business partner for 21 years. For clients listing with the Waiuku branch, their model
allows any of the company’s 1,700+ salespeople to introduce buyers and share information on any property that is listed. This increases the reach of clients’ property campaigns that Barfoot & Thompson staff are successfully marketing. Our buyers are discovering a more attractive slice of life here in Waiuku. At present, Barfoot & Thompson hold the market share for the Franklin district, so listing with myself and the team at Waiuku, has greater odds of finding and creating competition for your property sale.
Being involved in the community as I am, I not only know the area but also the people. I currently live on the outskirts of Waiuku and enjoy the semi-rural aspect of growing trees and my own vegetables.
My wide knowledge of Waiuku and the surrounding area including the Awhitu Peninsula, is invaluable to my clients. As a real estate professional, I commit to developing great relationships and delivering on expectations. Call or email me at Barfoot & Thompson Waiuku. I look forward to showing you around and finding your place in our community.
Achieving excellent outcomes
Shirley Leonard joined the Real Estate industry in 1994, bringing with her considerable skills that she was able to utilise to quickly thrive and succeed.
Having lived in the Papakura / Manurewa area for a long time, she had excellent local knowledge coming into the Real Estate industry. Because of this long-time personal commitment to the area, she has continued to keep up to date with both issues and developments with the district – this is of huge benefit to all of her clients.
Still to this day, she is involved in local business groups to keep her finger on the pulse!
Throughout her career, Shirley has worked through many different markets and difficult situations and she prides herself on achieving excellent outcomes.
Focused and honest – and partnered with Barfoot & Thompson, she ensures her clients are her priority. Shirley is able to bring a friendly, affable personality and customer-focused approach to all of her transactions – Let her work for you!
“Early in 2022, my husband and I needed to sell our comfortable home and move closer to our family for age related reasons. Shirley listened and understood our needs perfectly and reassured us that she would sell our house and keep us updated throughout the process. This she did perfectly! We felt relieved and confident at such a time, to be able to leave the details of house-selling in her experienced and capable hands, while we concentrated on down-sizing and organising the move. Thank you, Shirley.”
- Lesley Flinn
Natural passion for real estate
Introducing Victoria and Michael Licensee salespersons from RayWhite
Eastern
Group
An award winning team with over 30 years experience in the Eastern Beaches area, Victoria and Michael are dedicated to providing the best possible service to their clients.
With a successful real estate career credited to both business acumen and professionalism this is a team with a personal approach which continues to maintain an enviable reputation.
Having run numerous and successful high profile auction campaigns this is a team exuding knowledge in this specialist field of the industry.
With a natural passion for real estate and an enthusiastic, professional approach, Victoria and Michael are always working extremely hard to achieve excellent results for their clients and continue to achieve Alan White Elite performance.
Thinking of selling? Want to know how much your home is worth? Contact Victoria and Michael today!
Testimonials
“An excellent hard working woman who bends over backwards to achieve and making things happen. Nothing is too much for her to help her clients to their goal. A very happy people person, thank you Victoria!” - Gwenda Lunn
“Victoria was easy to deal with and always followed up when she said she would. She kept us up to date with how everything was going.” - Vanessa Hales
“Victoria visited me personally and didn’t just talk over the phone when I first made contact. She was prepared to not just present any offer, so. I felt she was working for my best interest.”
“Michael and Victoria went out of their way for us and gave 100% on selling our property. They kept us in the loop about what was happening all the time.” - Clive Kerr
“I have been treated very special. Agent was extremely cooperative and clear. I would highly recommend them.” - Muhammad & Arooj Taffazal
YOU CAN PUT
Michael, Victoria and their team pride themselves on being locals providing the best possible service to achieve excellent results for their clients.
Being involved in the local community and giving back is a part of the Team culture. We are always available for a confidential chat about your Real Estate needs.
Team Groom
We’re YOUR expert
We have a heart for our area and our clients. Having lived in the district for decades and raising 8 children here, we know better than anyone what a great this is to live; to raise a family.
We have a proven track record and a skill set for creating results for both our sellers and buyers.
Our repeat and referral business is impressive and we manage our business with a balance of professionalism and integrity.
We have chosen to work with Barfoot & Thompson because this company aligns with our 4 core values:
Shane has an accounting history with a financial skill set that comes in handy when assisting clients with their decision making.
Megan has been in the industry for 17 years with experience in all real estate markets.
You can be sure when you choose Team Groom, you make the right choice. We are YOUR real estate experts!
“IhavefoundShaneandMeganamazing.Theyhavebeenverysupportive, encouraging,efficientandunderstandingthroughouttheprocess. Ibelievetheygenuinelyhavetheirclientsbestinterestatheart. In fact, I felt like a friend not a client.“
form of advertising you can measure, then increase or decrease, so you can manage your workflow accordingly!
You’ve probably heard people talk about digital marketing, Google AdWords, online traffic, SEO and social media. Then on top of all that, you need to have a lead generating web presence with good traffic etc.
This can sound complicated – but it doesn’t have to if you talk to the right people.
Let’s start with the basics
Right now there are people looking for a business just like yours. However, if you don’t have AdWords, there’s a very good chance they’ve just clicked one of your competitors’ websites.
Most businesses would benefit from Google AdWords. It’s simple to set up, it’s fast, you set the monthly budget, and you can see the results immediately.
Included is a complimentary call tracking service to measure daily results, plus you get a monthly report that’s explained in as much detail as you like.
We have many success stories where people have thought marketing is a waste of money, but have finally found something that gives them a transparent Return on Investment.
If you would like to be our next success story, please call or email: enquiries@fatweb.co.nz
We have offices throughout New Zealand and can discuss your needs over the phone or by Skype.
Don’t let another year go by without truly discovering what digital marketing can do for your business.
With years’ of experience and having delivered outstanding results, we have some of the best digital experts in the business.
We are so confident, that if you aren’t 100% happy after the first month, you won’t pay a cent for the management fee. And if you mention this ad, set-up is free – a service other companies charge up to $3,000 for.
FREE call tracking, which means you can actually hear recordings of the phone calls coming into your business to see if your staff are doing things correctly or if they need more training. This tool can make a massive difference to the FAT on your bottom line.
Available to the first 25 people who book a consultation.
With over 15 years’ experience - we know what we’re doing.
Call 0800 FATWEB, or email enquiries@fatweb.co.nz to book a FREE consultation.
Home hacks
A life hack is a clever technique adopted in order to manage life’s tasks in a more efficient way. Below are some life hacks for your home to give you some much-needed short cuts to free up your time.
Remove small furniture scratches with toothpaste
Instead of getting your couch refinished, try using toothpaste to get the marks out. Use a pea-sized amount of non-gel toothpaste and rub the scratch in a circular motion until buffed out. Clean the remainder up with a damp towel.
Polish copper with tomato sauce
When your copper is looking tarnished, put some tomato sauce on a
rag with some salt on top. Rub it on your copper item and repeat until you’ve covered the whole surface. Rinse it off and it’ll look brand new!
Flip your wine glasses for more space
Some people like their wine glasses face up, while others like theirs facedown. Why not both? By alternating your glasses by top and bottom, you can nestle a lot more wine glasses closer together.
Clean HVAC vent registers in dishwasher
To keep your ventilation and air conditioning fresh and clean, put your HVAC vent registers in the dishwasher. Put them through a quick rinse cycle and then dry them thoroughly before reinstalling.
Suspenders to keep a fitted sheet in place
Your fitted sheet slipping off the corners of your bed is an annoyance that can be perplexing to fix. An easy way to solve the problem is to take a pair of braces for your trousers and clip each end to each corner under the mattress. That way, you sheet will definitely stay put.
Wasteless ways
Did you know that every Kiwi produces 3,200kg of waste per year? In total, that’s 12.5 million tonnes of waste each year, according to Recycle NZ. As a nation, we only recycle 28 percent of this waste.
One of the biggest ways you can lessen your impact on the planet is reducing your waste and reusing – or upcycling – the things in your home. With that, we can minimise our impact on the planet and keep New Zealand beautiful, especially as China stopped accepting our recycling in 2018 due to China’s National Sword policy banning the import of most plastics and materials heading for recycling processors.
Bring your own containers
All the supermarkets in New Zealand have moved to a zero plastic bag policy, reminding shoppers to bring their own reusable bags to take their groceries home.
However, there is still a lot of plastic waste from the way meat is packaged to the way we bring home vegetables in little plastic bags. Did you know you can also bring your own containers?
When you visit the deli or butcher’s, bring your own containers to take your meat home in. That way, you can drastically reduce the amount of plastic you’re collecting from the supermarket alone.
Repair your things
Back in the good ol’ days, our parents would make sure they got the most use out of something before throwing it away.
In the era of the disposable, we’ve lost this way of thinking and instead have been throwing out things that could be easily fixed instead of repairing them.
Be it your clothes – a hole in your pants, a button pops off – or your clock stops working, spend a few minutes checking to see if you can fix it rather than throwing it straight in the bin.
Remaining conscientious and aware of the waste you create every day is the best way to reduce your waste and impact on this place we call home.
This paradigm shift can take a bit to get used to, but being mindful of how we interact with objects and waste is the best way to keep New Zealand green.
Super Gold Card
Super savings with SuperGold
SuperGold helps you stretch your money further, offering instant discounts, special offers on everyday essentials and more. Explore the many ways you could save locally and nationwide.
What is the SuperGold Card?
SuperGold - or the ‘gold card’ as some people know it - gives you golden opportunities to stretch your money further. There are thousands of instant discounts and special offers. You will find all sorts of ways to make instant savings every day near you across New Zealand and in Australia.
The card gives you:
• Instant savings on everyday essentials like electricity, insurance, food and healthcare
• Discounts on entertainment, travel and in retail stores
• High value special offers
• Free off-peak public transport.
Getting the SuperGold Card
Getting an automatic SuperGold Card
Once your New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail.
This usually only takes a few weeks, but you may have to wait a month or two if you apply for New Zealand Superannuation prior to your 65th birthday.
SuperGold is one way the New Zealand government and business communities can say ‘thank you’ or ‘tēnā rawa atu koe’ to older New Zealanders for the work they have done raising families, supporting communities and contributing to Aotearoa.
Applying for a SuperGold Card
If you do not receive or are not eligible to receive New Zealand Superannuation, you can still apply for a SuperGold Card. You must be 65+ years old and be a New Zealand resident. Simply fill in the SuperGold Card application (PDF 255KB) and return it to us.
Call: 0800 25 45 65 (Monday – Friday, 8am-5pm)
Email: information@supergold.govt.nz
SuperGold Centre PO Box 5054
Wellington 6145 www.supergold.govt.nz
Veteran SuperGold
Veteran SuperGold is a specially branded SuperGold Card to recognise service to our country in the Armed Forces.
Once your Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail. This usually only takes a few weeks, but you may have to wait a month or two if you apply for New Zealand Superannuation prior to your 65th birthday.
Get the SuperGold app
The fast and easy way to find discounts and offers when you’re out and about is to use the SuperGold app. If you have a smartphone or tablet, download the SuperGold app from the Apple Store or Google Play.
Office for Seniors
The Office for Seniors is working to improve the lives of older people across New Zealand. Their website and regular email newsletter provide helpful information, news, and stories for older people.
Visit: www.officeforseniors.govt.nz
Call: 0800 25 45 65 (Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm)
Email: information@supergold.govt.nz
Frequently asked questions about SuperGold
Can I use my SuperGold Card to travel free on public transport?
Yes. Most areas off-peak is usually 9am to 3pm and from 6.30pm to the end of service on weekdays, and any time on weekends and public holidays. In most areas you will also need a smart card from the Regional Council to access free off-peak travel.
How do I order a replacement card?
If your SuperGold Card is lost, stolen, damaged or if you change your name, call or email us to order a replacement card. You will need to let us know your full name, date of birth, current residential and postal address and SuperGold Card client number if you have one (found on the back of your SuperGold Card). You should receive a replacement card within three weeks – free of charge.
When will I receive my SuperGold Card?
You will be automatically issued a SuperGold Card when you’re granted New Zealand Superannuation or a Veteran’s Pension or a main benefit at age 65 or over.
Your New Zealand Superannuation will need to be approved at least three weeks before turning age 65 if you wish to receive your SuperGold Card by your 65th birthday.
Is SuperGold connected to my New Zealand Superannuation?
Once your New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail.
If you do not receive or are not eligible to receive New Zealand Superannuation, you can still apply for a SuperGold Card.
What if I am already receiving a main benefit?
If you are turning 65 and receiving a main benefit from the Ministry of Social Development, your SuperGold Card will arrive at least three weeks after you are granted New Zealand Superannuation on your 65th birthday.
If you are not applying for New Zealand Superannuation then you will need to call or email us to advise you have turned 65 so the MSD can send you a new SuperGold Card.
How does the Community Services Card work with SuperGold?
If you have a current Community Services Card at the time you are granted New Zealand Superannuation, and you may continue to qualify for a Community Services Card, you will need to complete a Community Services Card application form to get a new SuperGold/Community Services Combo Card. It will have the initials CSC on the back and an expiry date.
Your new combo card’ replaces your Community Services Card. You can use this card for both health subsidies and SuperGold discounts.
Does my SuperGold Card have an expiry date?
Since May 2010, the only SuperGold cards with an expiry date are those which double as both a Community Services Card and SuperGold Card. These ‘combo cards’ have an expiry date because entitlement to a Community Services Card can change over time.
If the back of your card includes an expiry date (EXP) and this date has expired, call 0800 25 45 65 or email information@ supergold.govt.nz to arrange a replacement card.
Can I still get SuperGold if I am not a resident?
If you are not normally a resident in New Zealand and do not intend to stay here, you will not qualify to receive a SuperGold Card.
Hidden gems in
Motunau - Located in the Hurunui district just over an hour north of Christchurch, Motunau is a sleepy village with a beach unlike those seen on postcards and in travel magazines. It’s less tamed, with giant cliffs and rock fragments, as well as the Motunau River that runs next to its only campsite.
Nearby sits Motunau Island, a crucial refuge for many creatures including seabirds, geckos and over 5,000 little blue penguins. Access to the island is restricted to research only – permits issues by DOC – but you still view the island from afar on the beach or by boat.
For more information about the area, camping grounds and more, visit: www.hurunui.govt.nz.
There’s never been a better time to explore our own backyard.
New Zealand is home to a diverse range of climates and microecosystems, from subtropical places in the far North Island during the summer to snowy alpine areas inland on the South Island during the winter. We all have our favourite haunts, but how many times have you stepped off the beaten track to find some place new? We’ve curated a few suggestions for you below.
Curio Bay, the Catlins - The Catlins, located at the bottom tip of the South Island, boasts stunning views in a remote region. With abundant wildlife and a wide range of waterfalls, forests, beaches and farmland, the area has a lot to offer with less foot traffic.
Curio Bay in particular showcases lush marine wildlife and glimpses of the past – like yellow-eyed penguins, Hector’s dolphins, fur seals and sea lions – as well as a 180 million-year-old Jurassic fossil forests. It’s one of only three accessible fossil forests in the world.
For more information about Curio Bay and the Catlins, visit: www.southlandnz.com.
South North our own backyard
Whangaroa Harbour - Located in Northland, Whangaroa in the Bay of Islands is a staggering place to explore by boat or through the various walkways and trails.
The Whangaroa Harbour is an old river system, drowned when the sea level rose about 6,000 years ago. Ancient volcanic rocks make up its steep rocky outcrops. You can visit the harbour two ways – by land or by sea – and it has three wharves, as well as two boat launching ramps. It’s home to small but important areas of mangrove and saltmarsh wetlands, as well as tidal rivers.
For more information on Whangaroa Harbour, visit: www.whangaroa.co.nz.
Putangirua Pinnacles
- In the southern Wairarapa area
only a short drive from Wellington sits the Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve, the “badlands erosion” where the Putangirua Stream has exposed ancient layers of gravel through rain and flood, forming “hoodoos” or individual pinnacles.
The Putangirua Pinnacles also feature as a backdrop in the Lord of the Rings: Return of the King film, where Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli ride to meet the Army of the Dead.
For more information on the Putangirua Pinnacles, visit: www.wairarapanz.com.
What to look for when selecting a funeral director
By Gillian Boyes, Funeral Directors Association CEO.
The death of someone close is a time of sadness when a range of emotions are experienced.
Having a meaningful farewell allows your loved ones to gather, support one another, remember, and celebrate your life and begin the journey of saying goodbye.
Funeral directors have a complex and vitally important event to organise and run for a family who are highly emotional with grief.
Funerals are a one-off event and cannot be rerun if something is not right and what is more, we are only just beginning to discover the long-term harm of a poorly run funeral or indeed no funeral at all.
Mental wellbeing is not something we fully understand, and grief is one of the most powerful emotions that can negatively impact on our mental well-being if it is not managed well.
A meaningful farewell makes a positive contribution to our grieving and our mental well-being.
We need to remember that a funeral is for the living.
It is the start of the process where a family comes to terms with the sudden loss of a loved one and starts to understand how life will now be different with that person not being physically present as they were.
One of our most precious gifts to our family when we go is a meaningful farewell to help them along that journey. So how can we avoid the scammers, the cowboys, and also make sure that we leave our loved ones with the precious gift of a meaningful farewell?
2. Find a funeral director who is subject to a regular inspection process to make sure that they are complying with the standards they have.
3. Find a funeral director who is subject to an independent complaints process. If something goes wrong or just isn’t quite right, you need someone you can go to, to get advice or help and who has the power to do something to make it right. That someone must be independent to make the process worthwhile and the funeral director must submit to that process.
We find someone who knows what they are doing and ask them to do it. So how do we find such a person and how do we know if they do know what they are doing?
1. Find a funeral director who is committed to a written set of standards with ethical principles and ask for a copy. This provides the evidence that they know what they are doing because it is written down. As part of that also ask to see a copy of their contract for service. This sets out what they will deliver and what you or your estate will pay for. Finally ask for a written estimate so you know the cost before the event and not have it as a surprise afterwards.
4. Find a funeral director who is part of a national organisation that provides training and professional development so that the funeral director keeps up to date with current legislation and the latest thinking on how to make a farewell meaningful. Quite frankly, there are no real surprises in this list, and it is what you should expert when dealing with any professional or trades person.
You can find funeral directors who meet these four simple requirements and can be your assurance of a meaningful farewell. Make sure that precious gift is all you want it to be, and your family needs it to be.
For your assurance of a meaningful farewell, visit www.funeraldirectors.co.nz, to find your local Funeral Directors Association member.
The fruit of love is service, which is compassion in action
These words come from the benevolent and ever humble Mother Teresa whose work with the poor and dying for over five decades is renowned.
They could equally describe the team at Resthaven Funerals who serve their community with care, compassion and respect. When the team at Resthaven take your loved one into their care, they become part of the Resthaven family, cared for with respect and dignity and farewelled in a way the family will remember fondly and with love.
Part of the community
Part of the South and East Auckland communities for over two decades, Resthaven Funerals has gained a reputation for caring and professional staff and service. Locals who have grown up in their communities and who are passionate about the families who reside there, Resthaven Funerals was established by Raewyn Proctor and Rachel Benns in 2000, both qualified funeral directors and both actively working in the business today. Supported by a dedicated, qualified team, Resthaven Funerals locations are in Great South Road, Manurewa and Cnr. Picton & Walter MacDonald Streets, Howick. Members of FDANZ which mandates high values and standards are adhered to, Rachel was elected as president this year, the first female president in its history and a huge honour for the predominantly female team at Resthaven. Their strong community presence is felt across the isthmus; members of Howick Click, Venus Women’s Network Group, inaugural sponsors of Totara Hospice
Ladies Lunch, sponsors of Homai Bowls, Manurewa Cosmopolitan Club Bowls, Howick Bowls, Howick and Pakuranga Croquet, fundraising for Hospice at malls and market days as well as hosting Pink Ribbon morning teas and holding talks to Age Concern, Diabetes Auckland, Probus Groups and Retirement Villages residents and staff.
Guiding Family and friends
The Resthaven team all bring a variety of strengths to their role as Funeral Directors, however they all embody care, empathy and a dedication to support families, in their time of need, in a down-to-earth manner. They work extremely hard to ensure you have the available options for you and your family to make the right decision that will lead to a funeral that is both meaningful and immensely personal to each and every family and extended family member. It’s normal to need time to think when someone dies and Resthaven do just that, giving you the time to think, without rushing, to plan a funeral. Once you’re ready, they sit with you and gently discuss what matters to you, reinforcing the importance of a funeral to say goodbye to your loved one. The opportunity of honouring your loved one, whether in the form of a large gathering, or simply a few family members, assists in the grieving process. The Resthaven team guide you through choices like cremation or burial, respecting and celebrating cultural diversity and catering for the needs of all ethnic groups. They cover things you may not have thought about, like who will carry the casket, or the tone of the celebrant. They may assist you in writing the eulogy, whatever the questions, or uncertainty, the Resthaven team provides the answers or options with the utmost consideration and care.
Tailored to your individual needs
Some people want a simple, no fuss affair. Other s, something more colourful and unique reflecting their loved one’s personalit y There’s no right or wrong. The Resthaven team understand that people are different, they are all individuals and their wishes are too. The most important thing is that the funeral is right for you and your family, and honours and respects your loved one’s life well lived.
The Resthaven Funerals team understand their community because they are part of it. They live in the South and East Auckland communities and have done for over 20 years. They are immensely proud of the professional, caring services they provide to their community.
Planning a funeral for a loved one is a difficult process. Whether you prefer a traditional religious service, or an informal life celebration, your farewell can be as individual as your loved one. Our dedicated team of qualified funeral directors will provide a farewell of dignity and respect, a true celebration of a life well lived.
Stories from the past weave us into the bigger picture.
Our unique experiences shape us into the people we are. Do your family and friends know the stories from your past? If not, when we die, these stories can be lost to the people who love us the most. Taking the time to record your stories and your wishes for your funeral can really help your family during a painful time of loss.
Can I plan my own funeral?
Yes, this can really help your family when the time comes! You can download an information pack from our website to get some ideas and you can record your wishes here. Alternatively, you can phone one of funeral directors, they will talk you through all your options.
Why even have a funeral?
This is a question that we get asked a lot. A good funeral not only gives us the opportunity to express our love, our grief, our support and to share our memories but also helps us begin to come to terms with our loss. While a funeral can be a very a sad occasion, it can also be a true celebration of a life well lived.
What makes Fountains Funerals special?
The high standard of service that Fountains is known for is down to our team of funeral directors. Wendy, Rav, Ross, Brett, and Ben bring their own unique experiences, personalities and expertise to their roles. While they are all dedicated, professional individuals, it is their compassion and care for families that make them so good at what they do. They care for people in the way they would like their own loved ones to be cared for.
At Fountains, we do not take a “one size fits all” approach to funerals but help the families we care for to say goodbye to their loved one in a meaningful way. We are all unique individuals and each of our lives is like a tapestry into which the lives of the people we have touched are woven, so it makes sense to say goodbye in a way that is as special and unique as we are. Our team will really listen to you, give you the guidance and advice you need and take care of all the details.
Where should a funeral be held?
A funeral can be held anywhere - in a chapel or a church, in a private home or garden, on a beautiful beach, in clubrooms or a hall, anywhere, in fact, that has been a special part of a persons’ life. It doesn’t even have to be during daytime – a twilight ceremony with an array of glowing candles is amazing! We have a beautiful chapel with a capacity for 200 at our Papakura branch and our new-renovated classic bungalow in Pukekohe is perfect for more intimate farewells.
We are all unique individuals and each of our lives is like a tapestry into which the lives of the people we have touched are woven, so it makes sense to say goodbye in a way that is as special and unique as we are.
We are always happy to talk things through and answer any questions you may have, so give us a call at any time.
35 Wood Street, Papakura Ph 09 298 2957
93 Edinburgh Street, Pukekohe Ph 09 238 2221
www.fountainsfunerals.co.nz
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All Platinum Homes are built with quality and space in mind. Contact our team to find out more about our completed Platinum Homes, available now in the highly desired community of Paerata Rise.
