Skip to main content

The Coasties Mag - September 2026

Page 1

THE

oAsTiEs

ISSUE 135

MAG

SEPTEMBER 2026

COMPLIMENTARY

millwaterlaw.co.nz

NEW IN TOWN OLD SCHOOL VALUES

Your magazine of all things local on the Coast


Skin Transformation Programmes What we do consistently helps us to achieve our goals. Skin care and skin treatments are no different. Our Skin Transformation Programmes run over a 6 month period, offering you a bespoke consultation, at home skin care credit and treatments tailored to your skin care goals. Each programme is $1674 (with a value of over $2000). Payment plans available. Laser Rejuvenation Transformation Programme (Face & Neck)

Skin Needling Transformation Programme (Face and Neck)

This no downtime programme, improves skin texture, redness and fine lines.

Skin Needling improve skin texture, firmness, fine lines, scarring,

It stimulates collagen production for overall skin radiance and rejuvenation

pigmentation, and overall skin radiance. This programme stimulates collagen

using the Candela GentleMax Pro Laser. LED Rejuvenation Facials and

production, while LED Rejuvenation Facials and homecare help support

homecare help support recovery and enhance visible results.

recovery and enhance visible results. Minimal downtime.

OBSERV skin analysis and consultation

OBSERV skin analysis and consultation

Personalised skincare recommendations with $150 product credit

Personalised skincare recommendations with $150 product credit

4 x Laser Rejuvenation treatments for face and neck with the Candela

4 x SkinPen Skin Needling treatments for face and neck

GentleMax Pro

Topical numbing is available for an additional charge

4 x LED Rejuvenation Facials to support skin recovery and rejuvenation

4 x LED Rejuvenation Facials to support recovery and rejuvenation

Post-programme OBSERV review with a mini facial to assess progress,

Post-programme OBSERV review with a mini facial to assess progress,

refresh the skin, and refine ongoing recommendations

refresh the skin, and refine ongoing recommendations

5/2 Central Boulevard, Silverdale Parking in the Briscoes complex Phone: 09 4210910 https://kateallen.co.nz

Book a complimentary consultation today


Every farewell designed to tell a story. story

Hibiscus Coast | 39 Riverside Road, Orewa

Contact us today | (09) 426 7950 www.forrests.co.nz

Make your Dad's mow time, His time! Husqvarna, inventors of robotic lawn mowing, are driven by research, innovation, and the pursuit of green, lush lawns. They are proud that more than three million homeowners and professionals around the world are trusting them to keep their lawns in perfect shape. Designed for functionality and durability, Husqvarna Automower® works quietly, efficiently and independently to give you the best finish. You’re always in control, with a lawn to be proud of, and with more time to enjoy life and your garden. Husqvarna strives to offer the latest technology to give the best mowing experience. This includes intelligent mapping for tailored zone control, and the flexibility of boundary wire free mowing. From both your smartphone and your smart home you can enjoy the convenience of complete command with the Automower® Connect app. With 30 years of experience in robotic mowing, Husqvarna has developed tech you can trust. Thanks to their extensive product range, you can find a Husqvarna Automower® model that fits your garden and your needs perfectly.

Call 021915237 to arrange an obligation free visit to see if Automower is for you.

18 models for almost any lawn priced from I ncl. Install kit—wired. I ncl. Install kit—wireless.

$1299 $2989

12 m onth interest free with Q Card T’s&C’s apply**


EDITOR'S NOTE 24

CONTENTS 5

ON THE COVER: Millwater Law

6 7 9

In the loop Found & Fancied Feature: Op shop till you drop

39

11 14 Donate your old glasses 15 Harbour Hospice Wills Month 19 Silverdale Business Shout

20 Woven Earth’s new digs 21 Coastguard local hero Rachel

21

Hessey

25 Property Chat 27 Upcycling your food waste 30 Local fiction 34 Heritage festival at Silverdale Pioneer Village

Claire Nevans

27

Centre

43 Local directory 45 Recipe: Marinated mushroom melts

4

Feeling a bit peckish? We have all the info on how to sear a piece of tuna with respect, ideas on how to upscale your food scraps into edible fare, and a Baileys, white and dark chocolate mousse recipe from our resident local chef that will have you planning a special occasion just so you have a reason to indulge. Please, pop your feet up and enjoy.

39 Artspeak with Estuary Arts

47 Tide Times

We’re in a charitable state of mind this month, dear readers, with our feature shining a light on the phenomenon that is op shopping and why you should get into it on the Coast, we have an update on Woven Earth’s new digs – their new ‘donation location’ if you will, and Harbour Hospice have a great Wills Month offer for you. Coastguard Hibiscus are also celebrating a ‘local hero’ finalist in their midst – will you vote to help make her the winner? With the change of season upon us, we have advice on spring cleaning your skin care, getting your spring garden underway, and springing into action with fitness if you let yourself hibernate a little too much over the winter.

Spring cleaning your skincare

out: Achiva

On a recent trip to Wellington, I was listening to the audio version of Miranda Hart’s book I haven’t been entirely honest with you. As I blatted down the Desert Road she chatted about the benefits of finding joy and being silly. I dutifully looked out the window and smiled when I saw a random pink flower growing on the side of the road. So if you see me out and about on the Coast ‘smelling the roses’ or prancing around like a mad woman, be kind – or better still, come and join in!

11


WELCOME TO YOUR NEW LOCAL LAW FIRM

Richard Worker and his team welcome you to Millwater Law – a boutique law firm built on experience, integrity and genuine relationships. From property and business to estate planning and relationship property, we provide clear, practical advice for life’s important decisions.

www.millwaterlaw.co.nz

5


6

IN THE LOOP

Print | Digital | Social

Who wants to play walking football?

The cheerful meetings, which are usually attended by around 25 people, start with a morning tea, followed by an hour of entertainment from 11-12pm and then a hot twocourse lunch, all for $10. Wrap up is normally around 12.40pm.

FOLLOW US thecoastiesmag.co.nz TheCoastiesMag thecoastiesmag

12

YEARS

DESIGN

PUBLISHER

Grayson & Sarah Furniss

MANAGING EDITOR Claire Nevans

GRAPHIC DESIGN KD Design

PRINTER

Treehouse Print

CONTACT US 021 771 140

advertising@thecoastiesmag.co.nz

join them at their regular meet ups. They meet at 10am on the first and third Monday of each month at the Masonic Lodge, 101 Centreway Rd in Orewa.

Rodney District Sports are keen to hear from anyone interested in playing Walking Football this summer. Walking Football is a unique and rapidly growing sport designed to make football accessible to a wider range of participants, particularly older adults and those with limited mobility. Unlike traditional football, Walking Football is played at a slower pace, with running strictly prohibited. This modification significantly reduces the risk of injury while maintaining the core elements of the game that fans and players love. For more information on how the game works, you can go to www. walkingfootballnewzealand.org.nz.

Murray Van Horn, pictured, is a regular entertainer at the club, with other upcoming entertainers including Peter Taylor on steel drums and ukulele, and singer Sharon Blows. Other entertainment includes bingo and quiz days as well. If you’re an active retiree, the club are also looking for volunteers to help prepare, serve lunch and clean up afterwards. For more information you can phone Club Secretary Treve Kunzli on 021 023 00096.

Dairy Flat via the BP?

The idea is that the Walking Football module would run alongside RDS’s summer program this year. With the Summer Football season set to open for registrations soon, they are looking to hear as soon as possible from those who may be interested in Walking Football, to get an idea of what number of participants there may be. You can contact them via their facebook page or email admin@rdssports.co.nz to express your interest.

CONTRIBUTORS

Hayley Crawford Karen McMillan Mark Lane Carmen Bird Chris Norris Trish Beauchamp Lizzie Blanchard

Lively lunch club for seniors

READ ONLINE Disclaimer: Articles published are submitted by individual entities and should not be taken as reflecting the editorial views of this magazine or the publishers of The Millwater Mag Ltd.

6

The Hibiscus Coast Elderly Peoples Lunch Club would like to invite local seniors to

Have you ever driven home to the Coast past BP Dairy Flat, seen how close some of the roads are on the Dairy Flat side and wondered why they don’t (or if they ever will) run an extra bit of road down to provide locals access to the BP and motorway traffic access to Dairy Flat without having to go through the ‘challenging’ Silverdale offramp roundabout? Because I do. Every single time. For any fellow wonderers, the news isn’t great. A connection via the BP is never going to happen. Apparently that is and shall forever be only a motorway service area. And while there is a new Wilks Road interchange planned for the motorway, this won’t be built until at least 2038.


FOUND & FANCIED

A few items of eye-catching jewellery we spotted locally and rather fancied.

1.

Moreton carved toki at MorArt Silverdale Mall, Silverdale

2

1

2. Blue topaz sandalwood earrings at Walker & Hall Silverdale Centre, Silverdale 3. Etta freshwater pearl drop earrings at Sedàe Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa 4. Bee with me ring at About You Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa

3

4

Hurry! Must end 30 September!

(Parts & Service only)

7


You might not realise how much tension you’re carrying. Do you wake with a tight jaw, get headaches, have an achy neck or notice your face looks more tired than you actually feel? Tension can become something we adapt to and feel like we have to put up with. But I take a different approach; assessing how the face, jaw and neck work together, rather than simply treating the area of concern. My treatments combine therapeutic massage techniques such as myofascial release, lymphatic drainage, facial sculpting and, where appropriate, buccal (intra-oral) massage for deeper jaw release, as well as nervous system regulation work. Advanced Face Massage is my signature treatment, bringing together tension release and natural facial rejuvenation. It’s ideal if you’re noticing puffiness, fine lines, facial and jaw tension, or simply needing some ‘me time’. Jaw Release Massage is for clenching, grinding, TMJ issues and an overworked jaw, with the surrounding neck, scalp and back also considered. Neck Release Massage focuses on tight, achy neck and shoulders, headaches, posture related tension and the effects of stress.

Unit 7A, Hillary House 1 Alice Ave, Orewa

Every treatment is specifically tailored to you on the day.

relax@theritualroom.nz 027 384 1111

Want to feel better in your own skin, naturally? That’s exactly what The Ritual Room is here for.

@theritualroomnz

HEATHCOTE LEGAL L

A

W

M

A

D

E

E

A

S

Y

OUR SERVICES

• Property - Sale / Purchase / Refinance • Wills & Family Trusts • Separation & Relationship Property • Deceased Estates • EPOAs & PPPR Applications

WE WE ALSO ALSO OFFER OFFER

Exclusive Offers forfor Millwater, Milldale •• Exclusive Offersand andPackages Packages Millwater Residents OrewaSelf-Help residentsLegal Services •& Online Evening Appointments •• Evening Appointments Mobile Service Milldale & Orewa residents •• Mobile Servicefor forMillwater, Millwater Residents Free Certification •• Free CertificationofofDocumentation Documentation

Lizette Heathcote LLB B.COM(Hons)

Barrister & Solicitor

Phone: 09 475 5916 Mobile: 021 648 978 Email: practice@heathcotelegal.co.nz

www.heathcotelegal.co.nz

8


Op shop till you drop

There is nothing quite like finding the perfect piece of clothing hanging on a rack for just $5. With the rise of inflation and cost of living, op shopping is an affordable and sustainable option to save yourself some money whilst supporting local charities. With just $20 you can walk out of an op shop with an entire outfit, complete with jeans, shirt and shoes. Across the Hibiscus Coast we are lucky to have several brilliant op shops offering everything from clothing and books to furniture and hidden treasures. Each shop provides a chance to uncover something unique whilst giving pre-loved items a second life. In recent years op shopping has become more than just a way to save money, it has become a social activity in its own right. Groups of friends make a day of it, stopping for lunch before hopping from shop to shop in search of bargains and hidden treasures. The best part of op shopping is that you never quite know what you will find. Perhaps it’s the perfect retro jacket you’ve been looking for all winter, a necklace that completes your outfit, or a beautiful china set perfect for hosting dinner parties. You might even find something you didn’t realise you were looking for. But the biggest benefits of op shopping extend beyond the bargains. When you buy from a local op shop your money also goes to supporting the charity or business behind

it. Across the Hibiscus Coast our op shops support organisations such as the SPCA, Red Cross, Hospice, and local churches. There is also another benefit to op shops: sustainability. A recent report done by Charitable Reuse Aotearoa discovered that between 2025-26 New Zealand op shops reused a total of 46.9 million items. The report also revealed that buying second-hand goods from op shops saved New Zealanders a total of $844 million. Looking for something specific? Never Ending Books in Orewa and Book Heaven in Red Beach are great options for second-hand books (though not technically op shops). For pet owners, 4 Paws Pet Care Charity Shop in Silverdale offers a range of items for animals, while also providing a desexing veterinary clinic. If furniture is what you’re after, Harbour Hospice in Orewa has plenty of beautiful preloved pieces. New parents can also find great bargains, with Silverdale Hospice Shop offering $1 baby items alongside plenty of options for adult clothing. With so many op shops across the Hibiscus Coast, there is no shortage of bargains waiting to be discovered. So grab a friend, set aside an afternoon and see what treasures you can uncover.

Lizzie Blanchard | Feature Writer

Hospice Shop Silverdale: 10 Silverdale St SPCA Op Shop: 8 Silverdale St The Kowhai Tree: 5 Palm Court Silverdale 4 Paws Pet Care Charity Shop: 2181 E Coast Road Harbour Hospice Shop: 57 Florence Ave Op Shop at Hibiscus Presbyterian Church: 107 Centreway Rd Salt Op Shop Orewa: 41 Florence Ave Red Cross Shop Orewa: Shop 5 Hillary Square St Chad’s Op Shop: 63 Florence Ave Never Ending Books: Shop 3/1 Moenui Ave Hibiscus Coast Community House: 214 Hibiscus Hwy Book Heaven: 76 Red Beach Rd 9


Buyer beware Natural hazard areas

New Zealand has changed the way natural hazard risks are dealt with when people want to subdivide or develop land. Recent floods and other major weather events have shown that some land has been developed in places where such risks were foreseeable – causing serious financial loss and harm. In response to this, the Government has introduced new rules and policies to make Councils look more closely at natural hazard risks before allowing development. This has been brought about by the National Policy Statement for Natural Hazards 2025 (NPS-NH), which came into force on 15 January 2026 and the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Act 2025, which came into force on 21 August 2025. The key changes include the following: •

There is now a national framework for assessing natural hazard risk (this applies to new subdivisions, land use and development).

•

Natural hazard risk is now graded using a standard scale.

•

Development is not automatically banned where there is a natural hazard risk, but development in very high-risk areas must be avoided.

•

Council’s now have stronger powers (for example, they can refuse or place conditions on land use consents where there is significant natural hazard risk).

•

If a Council notifies new planning rules about natural hazards, those rules can now have immediate legal effect from the date they are publicly notified.

More than ever before, natural hazard risk should be treated as a major due diligence item before buying and developing land. Councils now have a much clearer system and stronger powers to restrict development where natural hazard risk is too high. It is important for buyers and developers to work closely with their solicitor, planner and natural hazard experts when looking to purchase a property or undertake a development. If you have any questions about how these changes might affect a purchase or development you’re planning, contact Martin & Parker Law at office@mplaw.co.nz or call 09 421 0559.

Anaya Buys | Registered Legal Executive, Martin & Parker Law Note: This article is published for general information purposes and should not be relied upon as legal advice. For advice specific to your legal issues, please engage a lawyer directly.

The Clarity Practice

Feeling unclear about where your life is heading? Book your spot at the first New Zealand Holistic Life Map™ workshop. Saturday 19 September 2026 9am - 4pm CoastLab Orewa Visit theclaritypractice.co.nz/holisticlifemap to learn more

10

Facilitated by: Jennifer Leppington-Clark

Register today


THE BEAUTY BRIEF

Spring cleaning… But make it skincare When did you last clean out your bathroom cabinet? Be honest. Spring is here, which means we’re opening windows, clearing cupboards and finally dealing with that mysterious drawer full of things we haven’t used since 2022. But there’s one spot we often forget: the bathroom cabinet. That half-used moisturiser you ‘might’ go back to? The mascara you can’t remember buying? And the sunscreen that has survived several summers? It might be time for a beauty spring clean.

What does that little jar mean? Ever noticed the tiny open-jar symbol on your skincare with 6M, 12M or 24M written inside? That’s the ‘Period After Opening’ (PAO). It tells you how many months the product is intended to remain at its best after opening. So 12M means approximately 12 months from the day you cracked it open.

And yes, how you treat your products matters. Every time you dip fingers into a jar, microorganisms can be introduced. Heat, moisture, sunlight and air can also affect formulations, preservatives, colour and texture. Suddenly storing your entire skincare collection in a hot, steamy bathroom doesn’t seem quite so innocent!

Keep it or bin it? Mascara deserves particular attention. Because the wand repeatedly travels from your eye back into the tube, it has a relatively short lifespan. If it’s dry, smells different or you’ve had an eye infection while using it, it belongs in the bin. For skincare and makeup, follow the manufacturer’s PAO or expiry instructions and look for changes in smell, colour, texture or separation. When in doubt, chuck it out. And please check your sunscreen. In New Zealand, this one really matters. Expired or poorly stored sunscreen may not provide

the protection stated on the bottle. Check the expiry date and don’t leave it cooking in the car.

Spring clean your routine too While you’re clearing the shelf, take a look at what’s actually on it. Five serums, three exfoliants and several half-used moisturisers aren’t necessarily giving you better skin. Sometimes the best spring refresh isn’t buying something new. It’s simplifying what you already have, using it consistently and giving your skin what it actually needs. Now go check that mascara. I’ll wait.

Kerry Venter | Health & Skincare Therapist Mint Skin & Body Therapy www.mintskinbody.co.nz | 020 4126 2064

11


September Exhibitions OUTSIDER

From Bush to Beach: Echoes of Coast and Canopy Sue Lockett Of Tide and Stone Rachel Moore, Tracey Currington and Amanda Morton Light, Place and Memory Tim Houghton

OUTDOOR SCREENS

CLEARSPAN

FROM SHADES TO SHELTER, TRUST THE EXPERTS IN COVERED OUTDOOR LIVING AREAS

20 + Years in Business : No compromise

It’s Raining Cats and Dogs - Group exhibition Languages in Clay - A Nurture Early Learning exhibition Estuary Arts Centre 214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa admin@estuaryarts.org 09 4265570

0800 742 337 shadesdirect.co.nz

www.estuaryarts.org Open 7 days a week

Get a free Will this September

12

Harbour Hospice has teamed up with four local lawyers. They’ll prepare a simple new Will or amendment to your existing Will, free of charge, when you include a gift to Harbour Hospice. After taking care of your loved ones, a gift to Harbour Hospice can make a life-changing difference for hospice tūroro/patients, their families and whānau. For more information contact Suzie on 021 226 2741 or suzie.smith@harbourhospice.org.nz


TAKING A HIKE Queen Charlotte Track It was a last‑minute invite, and I’m not one to say no, so I headed to Picton to meet friends for a few days on the Queen Charlotte Track. Missing my plane meant I arrived on a later boat, but I eventually made it up the Sounds to Ship Cove where the group was waiting. The Queen Charlotte Track runs about 72km end‑to‑end, usually walked over 3–5 days, with daily elevation gains between 400 and 700m depending on the section. The first day winds through native bush towards Resolution Bay and Endeavour Inlet, with steady climbs and drops and stunning views out over the Sounds. We finished day one at Furneaux Lodge, a place that feels genuinely special. The historic homestead sits with views over the water, surrounded by lawns, bush, and the curve of Endeavour Inlet. There’s something about arriving there after a solid day on the track – the mix of old‑school charm, the setting, and the stillness of the inlet – that makes it a standout stop. Day two took us through thick punga forest and out to wide, breathtaking views as we made our way to Punga Cove. The chalets sit amongst the bush, and Glad Hill gives one of the best vantage points of the whole track – long ridgelines, deep blue water, and the scale of the Sounds stretching out below – it is truly magical. The next two days were big ones. Day three was roughly 24km, a long ridge‑top section with constant views and plenty of climbing. By the time we reached Portage Bay our feet were definitely feeling it. The final day was another 20‑plus kilometres, with a mix of bush, open track, and a long descent towards Anakiwa, the home of Outward Bound, where my daughter spent a few memorable weeks as a teenager. The weather delivered the whole way – clear skies, calm conditions, and classic Sounds colours that make every lookout worth stopping at. We wrapped up the trip with a night in Nelson, tired legs and satisfied after covering one of the country’s most rewarding coastal tracks.

Carmen Bird Carmen Bird Photography www.carmenbirdphotography.co.nz 021 310320 For framed landscape prints PRINT SHOP | All Carmen Bird Photography

13


Recycling eyewear Hibiscus Coast Community House In the community for 30+ years Donations & Volunteers Welcome

• Meeting rooms for hire • Groups and courses • Community shop • Car seat rental • Foodbank • Jigsaw library

Western Reserve, Orewa www.hbccommunityhouse.org.nz

W

Cedar – Protecting Oil or Stain • Decks & Timber – Beautiful Oil, Stain or Paint • House Washes • Window Cleans • Concrete & Paving Cleans

• Attention to Detail • Quality Work • Beautiful Results TKRevive.co.nz | 027 677 0747

You may have noticed this box sitting at Orewa Optics’ reception and not given it a second thought. This box is a collection point for eyewear that is no longer suitable for you. Maybe your prescription has changed, or you’ve had a cataract operation. The Lions Club periodically empties and collects the glasses that have been kindly donated by the public. All glasses have their prescription documented and are cleaned and collated ready to send onto various destinations across the Pacific with medical mission teams. From there, the prescription glasses are matched with someone in need who has a similar prescription – giving them a new lease on life. This is your opportunity to have a clean out. Hunt out those musty, old-fashioned glasses you have hiding in the back of your drawer, they could make a difference in someone else’s life. The Lions Club will gladly take any of your old glasses (including their cases). It doesn’t matter how unfashionable they now are, as long as they are not broken and the lenses are not badly scratched. They also take prescription sunglasses, but not hobbies specs. The Lions Club truly appreciates all donations. But do make sure you always leave yourself a second backup pair with your most up to date prescription. Orewa Optics will love to see you in store to donate your old specs, making a positive difference and donating your usable eyewear and help someone else see better. Come and see the team at Orewa Optics for your regular check-up, and to see our extensive and stylish range of eye wear. Orewa Optics are here Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm, and enjoy extended hours until 7:00pm on Tuesdays. Call us today 09 426 6646 or book online at www.orewaoptics.co.nz.

14

PRINT RYAN JACKSON M: 027 498 6202 E: ryan@treehouseprint.co.nz PO Box 133, Kumeu 0841 Auckland


Paying it forward for hospice in Wills Month In February 2024 Kiri Martin’s world fell apart when she found out her dad, Ken, was at the end of his life. ‘Dad had had melanoma, which was being treated. But what we thought were side effects from his treatment turned out to be a reoccurrence of cancer,’ says Kiri, the director of You Travel, Orewa. ‘So, the situation quickly changed from being a routine checkup to finding out it had all gone too far.’ After five days in hospital the family managed to get Ken into Harbour Hospice’s Inpatient Unit (IPU) for end-of-life care. ‘It was almost like a ‘coming home’ for him,’ Kiri says. ‘It was such a relief for the family to get him into such a beautiful environment. ‘As soon as we arrived the team adjusted Dad’s medications – the relief that came with seeing his pain managed. ‘We’d also arrived late on a Friday, and one of the doctors had actually stayed after hours to welcome Dad and get him settled in.’ Ken died two days later, and while his Hospice stay was brief the imprint it left on the family has endured. ‘The compassion they showed Dad and the dignity, the kindness they extended to our whole family. They explained things and gave us comfort. It meant so much during an incredibly difficult time.’ During Wills Month last September, Kiri decided to leave a bequest to Harbour Hospice. ‘I wanted to ensure that families in the future receive the same care that Dad did. And I wanted to honour Dad’s legacy and the legacy of those who’d cared for him.’ Kiri took advantage of a partnership between Harbour Hospice and local law firms that saw her create a Will, for free, that included a bequest to Hospice. She says the process was simple. ‘And it felt like a meaningful way to say thank you, while helping Hospice continue its incredible work in our community.’ That same partnership is running this September. Lawyers Denham Bramwell, Schnauer & Co Lawyers, Paxton-Penman et al and The Legal Team will prepare a simple new Will or amendment to your existing Will, free of charge, when you include a gift to Harbour Hospice. To learn more contact Suzie on suzie.smith@ harbourhospice.org.nz or 021 226 2741.

MARK MITCHELL MP for Whangaparāoa Shop 7, 4 Keith Morris Lane, Ōrewa 09 426 6215 mark.mitchellmp@parliament.govt.nz Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by Mark Mitchell, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

15


OUR OPTOMETRISTS

EST

2022

SASHA

HELEN

GRANT

CASS

Our qualified and friendly team offers thorough eye exams, stylish frames, and advanced lenses for work, sport, and everyday wear. MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

OCEAN VIEW RETREAT

Since 1987, we’ve proudly supported the Hibiscus Coast with expert service and trusted care.

10 Bakehouse Lane, Orewa 09 426 6646 www.orewaoptics.co.nz

ANGELA

YOUR COASTAL ESCAPE Just down the road! Coasties get 10% off your next stay!

CHRISTINE

LAURA

OUR DISPENSING OPTICIANS

Floors That Survive real family life.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or hosting visiting whānau or friends, we’ve got you covered. Use code COASTIESMAG10 when booking online to unlock your exclusive discount.

stayorewa.co.nz

stayorewa.co.nz Scan to book!

3 BEDROOM | 3 BATHROOM | 2 LIVING SECURE PARKING | WIFI

406 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa

Visit our book showroom or ome -h your FREE in n t a consult io today! (09) 424 3790

675 Whangaparaoa Rd

for better floors info@midwayflooring.co.nz

W W W. M I DWAY F L O O R I N G . C O . N Z 16


COOKING QUESTIONS with Mark Lane

Your own personal chef I have been cooking professionally for 39 years. My business, Culinary Lane Catering, is based in Millwater, providing three and five course dinners in your home, out-catering and grazing tables. Gain the benefit of my experience by emailing me your cooking questions. Carol: Can you help me out with how to sear tuna properly at home please? I always seem cook it too much or unevenly, and then it feels like undercooked cooked tuna, rather than seared? Also, what seasonings do you use with seared tuna? Thanks very much. I love tuna, but for me there are only three ways to cook it, and one isn’t cooked. Serve it raw (sashimi), tataki (quick sear on the outside) or pan seared rare or medium rare. When tuna is fresh and excellent quality is should taste more like eye fillet than fish. There are four types of fresh tuna steaks we eat in New Zealand. Albacore is the cheaper, used mainly for canning and niçoise salads (confit in fat) as it has a fishier and oilier flavour ($27 plus per kg). Yellowfin is the most popular and still premium quality, great for all of the above methods of cooking ($40-$50 plus per kg). Southern bluefin is great quality when fresh ($35-45 plus per kg) and bigeye bluefin is the most premium ($55-65 plus per kg).

To sear rare (45oC) to medium rare (52oC), I like to use a hot barbeque (I cook this way for my family meals with most proteins all year round). Cut the tuna into a steak around 4cm thick, rub well in EVOO, season with sea salt and ground pepper. Place on the oiled bars of the barbeque (I ¼ turn twice on each side to give me checkered grill marks. You will see the tuna cooking from the bottom and when it has cooked ¼ of the way through (around 2-3 minutes each turn), then turn and repeated on the other side, this is to serve it medium rare. Cooking it all the way through will cause the tuna to be dry and have a tougher texture. Only season with salt and pepper as you want the tuna to be the star as for any fish. You can do the same process with a quality fry pan but only turn the tuna over once and don’t shake the pan. A low quality, thin fry pan, that isn’t hot enough can cause the tuna to cook unevenly.

Mark: I have seen #8 eggs in the super‑ market. Are they a better option than #6 or #7s as they are usually well priced in comparison? I tend to buy #8 eggs more regularly when cooking for the family as they are bigger in size and work out cheaper. All my baking

and patisserie recipes require #7 eggs as this is the standard egg size in the hospitality industry. That way you get consistent results, but in pastry cookery, it’s important to follow the weights to the gram. I use #8s when measurements do not need to be so precise, such as a scrambled egg mix or poached eggs. As a rule, an egg is 60% egg white, 30% egg yolk and 10% shell weight. These are the approximate minimum weighs of eggs. Size #6 are 53g, #7 are 62g and #8 are 68g. It is better value to buy the number 8 eggs, but just keep in mind, they are hard to find in free range and organic. It doesn’t seem like a lot of savings but it is around 10% and it makes a difference in today’s economic climate.

Mark Lane | Culinary Lane Catering www.culinarylane.co.nz culinarylane@gmail.com

When making tuna tataki I use a yellow fin tuna, cut into a sculpted round (3-4cm wide). I use a good quality, heavy bottomed fry pan and get it hot with a light smoke. Then I add a little extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) or light olive oil and place the tuna in unseasoned for around 7-10 seconds then gently turn on to each uncooked side until the outside has a light sear on it (takes no more than 30-40 seconds). Cool it then wrap a few times in gladwrap and roll to tighten and tie the ends and refrigerate until required. Serve with Kikkoman, wasabi and pickled ginger.

17


A local voice in financial advice

Luna Zhang moved to the Hibiscus Coast with her family in 2018. The relaxed coastal lifestyle, friendly local atmosphere and strong sense of community drew them to the area. Luna’s background is impressive. Before starting her business, Achiva, she spent more than a decade working across two of New Zealand’s major banks. Moving through customer service, relationship management and mobile mortgage lending, she progressed on to leading a programme that helped Kiwis better understand the home-buying process and equipped business owners with practical knowledge to start and grow their businesses. This breadth of experience continues to shape how Luna works with people today.

best broker we’ve ever had.’

clients’ financial lives.

That kind of feedback speaks for itself.

Luna is the real deal, and we’re lucky to have her as part of our community.

What I also love about Luna is that her commitment to the community goes well beyond her client work. Every week she spends two hours volunteering as a financial mentor, helping people understand where they stand financially, create a budget and move forward at their own pace.

Vanessa Li | Marketing Specialist Silverdale Business www.silverdalebusiness.co.nz

She’s also a half-marathon runner and a former competitive swimmer back in China, which tells you something about her character. Discipline, preparation and consistency – she applies the same approach to her

What drew her to go independent was simple: she wanted to be able to offer clients a wider view. As an adviser not tied to any single provider, Luna can compare products across a broad range of providers and tailor her recommendations to what actually fits each person’s financial goal. Whether someone’s buying their first home, reviewing a loan, protecting a growing family, or looking for funding to take their small business to the next step, she’s the kind of person who looks beyond the numbers to understand what really matters. One of her clients put it better than I could: ‘Luna was an invaluable guide throughout our home-buying journey – caring, relaxed and straightforward, always finding solutions. From loan approval to settlement, she was with us every step of the way. Her financial knowledge is impressive, and her work ethic is the most reliable we’ve experienced. The

19


Woven Earth is once again ready to receive

After a month-long pause in taking donations while they underwent the mammoth task of moving from their three previous sites into a much larger new warehouse, Woven Earth are all set up and ready for your donation drop offs again. If you haven’t heard of Woven Earth before, they are a local charity based in Silverdale who furnish empty houses to help families and individuals fleeing family violence to start again. They bridge the gap between crisis and recovery, repurposing pre-loved donations of excellent-quality furniture, homewares, household goods, toys, books and sports equipment – alongside brandnew items like linen, towels and appliances – providing everything needed to create a home that restores dignity and nurtures stability. Working directly with frontline agencies

across the Tāmaki region, their services are in high demand – in the second half of August alone they fully furnished ten houses. There is always a need for their supplies to be topped up so they can keep provided this incredible service. And the more goods they have available to select from allows the Woven Earth team to personalise the homes they are furnishing, taking colour schemes and style into account so the occupants can really feel at home. Items particularly in need right now include: •

home décor and kids room decor

•

candles

•

king single duvet covers

•

pamper items for mums (new only)

•

board games for kids and teens

•

beach towels (new only)

Their drop-off location in Silverdale makes it super convenient for our Coasties community to support this incredible charity with donations. Deliveries can be made to 4i Titan Place, Silverdale, Monday to Thursday from 9am to 12pm. There is a dedicated car park for those making deliveries. If you can’t deliver during these times, or have large items for collection, email donations@wovenearth. org.nz to arrange alternative delivery or collection. If you would like to support Woven Earth but don’t have any items to donate, you can make a financial donation or gift newly purchased items directly to Woven Earth. Follow this link to find out more www.wovenearth. org.nz/giftitems#guide.

We’re more than lawyers, we’re partners in your success. Based in Silverdale, we’re here to help with business and commercial law, property, trusts and estate planning. Formerly Simpson Western North M ARTIN AND PARK ER LAW LIMITED

20

UNIT 1L POL A RIT Y RISE, SILV ERDA L E, AU CK L A N D | 09 421 0559 | MPL AW.C O. NZ


COASTGUARD

Coastguard Hibiscus volunteer named Westfield Local Heroes finalist When I nominated Rachel Hessey for the Westfield Local Heroes programme, I hoped others would recognise what those of us at Coastguard Hibiscus already know, that Rachel is an extraordinary volunteer whose dedication helps keep our community safe. To now see her selected as a finalist for the 2026 Westfield Local Heroes programme at Westfield Albany is incredibly exciting and well deserved. Rachel has devoted over 10 years of service to Coastguard Hibiscus, serving as a qualified skipper, leader, fundraiser, advocate and mentor. She recently completed a two-year term as President of Coastguard Hibiscus and continues to contribute as a committee member while leading initiatives that strengthen our organisation’s connection with the community. As the unit’s only female qualified Master, Rachel has also become a role model for others considering operational and leadership roles in maritime search and rescue. Alongside her operational responsibilities, Rachel works tirelessly behind the scenes to build community support, foster local partnerships and help secure the resources needed for our volunteers to continue their lifesaving work. Her commitment, leadership and willingness to step forward whenever needed make her an invaluable member of our organisation.

This recognition not only celebrates Rachel’s personal contribution but also shines a light on the hundreds of volunteer hours given by Coastguard Hibiscus members each year to keep our boating community safe. As Rachel’s nominator, I couldn’t be prouder to see her reach this stage. Her leadership, generosity, resilience and unwavering commitment embody everything the Westfield Local Heroes programme stands for. Community voting for the 2026 programme will be open from 25 August until 20 September. Please take a moment to vote for Rachel Hessey and Coastguard Hibiscus on https://shorturl.at/bj50f and help us secure vital funding to train our local volunteers who keep our community safe on the water.

Nicole Highmore | Coastguard Hibiscus Secretary www.coastguardhibiscus.org.nz

The Westfield Local Heroes programme, now in its ninth year, recognises individuals making a positive impact in their communities and provides grants to support the organisations they represent. Each finalist receives a $5,000 grant, while the community-voted Local Hero for each Westfield destination will receive a $20,000 grant. The $5,000 finalist grant will already make a meaningful difference to Coastguard Hibiscus. If Rachel is successful in receiving the $20,000 Westfield Albany Local Hero grant, the funding would be used to support training for our local volunteers. Currently, volunteer training is funded entirely by Coastguard Hibiscus, and additional funding would allow us to expand training opportunities, strengthen operational capability, and ensure our crews continue to have the skills and confidence needed to respond when lives are at risk on the water.

21


Why we thrive with connection How often do you interact with others? I recently played a speedy card game, Snap, with my grandson. It reminded me of childhood experiences with laughter, sibling competitiveness and family togetherness. From a young age, we look to others for connection, and this continues throughout our lives. Psychologists have theorised that our relationships are as essential to survival as oxygen, food and water. Research has shown that we live happier and longer lives when we have positive connections with others. I remind my clients that the most important relationship they have is with themselves, and I also emphasise the significance of healthy connections with others. Positive interactions impact all areas of Life Wellness: relational, emotional, physical, mindful and spiritual. When do we not thrive with connection? What are the benefits of regular connection with others? Having fun together can activate a release of dopamine and serotonin in our brain, the hormones that support a healthy wellbeing. Physical touch by a trusted person (or pet) releases the ‘feel good’ hormones oxytocin and endorphins, which can lower stress levels and relieve pain. Strong social connections boost our immune system and help stabilise mental health. I often write about the health benefits of ‘happy hormones’. Our bodies respond to our daily experiences at a cellular level. Activating these four key brain chemicals and hormones can boost our mood and well-being.

AYO

Auckland Youth Orchestra

ayo.org.nz

Weber

Unhealthy attachments: Toxic relationships, when respect, personal safety and honesty are disregarded, are not connections to build upon. Being clingy and demanding in relationships causes an imbalance in connection and is not beneficial to anyone. Replacing conversation with text mes‑ saging: How many times have you sent or received a written message that was misunderstood? A voice conversation expresses tone and timbre and allows an instant response to clarify what has been said. Dependence on AI communication: As mentioned in a previous article, AI platforms can be a useful source of information for building connections, but AI chatbots cannot replace real-life human interactions.

Fi re bi rd Stravinsky

Rachmaninov

Pianist: Shan Liu r

Humanitix & Door $10-$25

Y o u r p a ra g ra p h te x t

22

Sat.12 Sept. 7.30pm Orewa Arts & Events Centre

TIMBER SURFACE REPAIRS

Connection with others affects who we are, and who we are affects how we connect. How we connect with others is often influenced by how we feel about ourselves. Sometimes we need to choose differently to create positive interactions with people. Connect with others. Your wellbeing will thank you: mind, body and soul.

Trish | Life Wellness Coach trishbeauchamp.com

Furniture | Floors Bench tops | Doors Cabinets | Joinery

STONE SURFACE REPAIRS

Tiles | Bench tops Vanities | Granite Marble | Ceramics

Grant Harvison P: 022 501 8998 E: info@timberdoctor.co.nz W: thetimberdoctor.co.nz


Mix, Match & Grow Your Perfect Spring Vege Garden Spring is the perfect time to get growing. As the days become warmer and sunlight increases, young vegetable plants establish quickly and reward gardeners with fresh, homegrown produce in the weeks ahead. Whether you’re planting crunchy lettuce, vibrant silverbeet, sweat peas, tomatoes, or capsicums, a mix of seasonal vegetables will provide a continuous harvest throughout spring and summer. Starting with healthy seedlings in an easy way to enjoy faster results and a productive garden from the very beginning. Growing your own vegetables is a rewarding way to enjoy fresher food while making the most of your outdoor space. By mixing and matching a range of vege plants, you can create a garden that suits your favourite meals, family tastes, and available space. Homegrown vegetables not only taste great but can also inspire healthier eating and a deeper connection to the garden. With regular watering, feeding, and protection from pests, you’ll be harvesting fresh produce straight from your backyard before you know it.

3 for

89

13

Growfresh Vege 6 Pack Assorted SKus

Promotion ends 14 October 2026. Exclusive to Mitre 10 MEGA Silverdale. T & Cs apply.

Give Your Vege Garden the Best Start

SILVERDALE

Tui Vegetable Mix 40L

Tui Blood & Bone Fertiliser

Yates Blitzem

Mix it into the soil before planting, then water well.

Mix it into soil before planting to give them a nutrient-rich start.

Scatter the pellets around your plants to help keep snails away.

35 Colin Chester Drive, Millwater, Silverdale | 09 426 0760 | Find us on

Mitre 10 MEGA Silverdale

23


MORTGAGE MATTERS

Do you need a 20% deposit to purchase your first home? Getting a house deposit together can be hard work, and one of the biggest misconceptions among first home buyers is that you need a 20% deposit to purchase a home. For some, this is true but for many others this is not the case. While a 20% deposit does give first home buyers more lender options, less borrowing costs, better interest rates and fewer conditions, there are still options for first home buyers to purchase with less than 20%.

What funds can you use as your deposit? The initial money you’ll need to have saved to borrow from a bank or other lender to purchase your first home is called a deposit. Your deposit could be made up of funds from Kiwisaver (if you’ve been a member for at least 3 years, you can withdraw most of your KiwiSaver contributions, leaving a minimum of $1,000, to put towards your deposit), savings and funds gifted to you from family that does not need to be repaid (many lenders will accept gifted funds with correct documentation, such as a gifting certificate).

Can you buy with just 5% deposit? In some circumstances, you can purchase your first home with as little as 5% deposit.

24

The Kāinga Ora First Home Loan scheme allows eligible first home buyers to purchase with as little as a 5% deposit through participating lenders. The scheme is designed to help buyers who can afford mortgage repayments but have struggled to save a larger deposit. Not every buyer will qualify, and not every lender offers these loans, but it’s an option many people are unaware exists.

Extra costs when you have less than 20% deposit If purchasing your first home with less than 20% deposit, you’ll need to factor in additional costs due to the extra risk involved to the lender, such as: •

the fee for a Registered Valuation on the property you’re looking to purchase

•

a low equity premium (which can be added to your loan); OR

•

you may have a Low Equity Margin added to your interest rate

•

Lenders Mortgage Insurance (if purchasing through the First Home Loan Scheme you’ll need to pay 1.2% of the loan amount as a one-off fee. This amount can be added onto your loan.)

•

higher loan repayments due to a larger mortgage – however it does get you on the ‘property ladder’ sooner

Low Equity Premium (LEP) and Low Equity Margin (LEM) A LEP is an additional fee charged by lenders and is often added to your home loan amount. A LEM is a percentage amount, typically between 0.25% and 1.5% per annum (depending on your deposit amount), added to your home loan interest rate for as long as you have less than 20% equity. This margin can be removed when the equity in your property increases to above 20% through paying down your home loan and/or your property value increasing. Often this is not revised by the bank, so it is up to you to request a review of your current equity position. If you’re considering purchasing your first home and not sure how much deposit you will need, we recommend you speak with an experienced Mortgage Adviser to explore your options. Let’s chat! Contact Wayne Henry on 021 423 818 or email wayne@ waynehenry.co.nz.

Wayne Henry | Wayne Henry Mortgages Wayne & Karen Henry are Millwater locals. Wayne is a Financial Adviser specialising in mortgages and Karen supports him with all admin related work. Wayne’s Disclosure Statement is available free of charge on request or can be downloaded via website https://www.waynehenry.co.nz/ wayne-henry-mortgage-adviser/


PROPERTY CHAT

with Jason Croft

Winter chill or coastal sizzle? Number of Sales

The local property market is actively defying the broader Auckland region’s winter slowdown, demonstrating resilient buyer activity and robust price stability. Sales volumes are holding steady, surging nearly 11% compared to the previous month. While properties are averaging a mid-50s days to sell, the local median price has experienced only a very modest pricing adjustment. Highly desirable pockets of the Hibiscus Coast, particularly Manly and Orewa, remain a drawcard and local median values are holding firm between $1,000,000 and $1,200,000 as buyers continue to prioritise spacious living and close proximity to the coast.

To help you assess your purchasing power, here’s a breakdown of July sales by price point: Under $1 Million: 61 properties (43% of the market) $1 Million – $2 Million: 79 properties (55% of the market) Over $2 Million: 3 properties (2% of the market)

143

May

June

July

57

51

55

May

June

July

Median Sale Price May June July

Credit squeeze hits home borrowers

I trust these insights will help you navigate the current market with confidence. If you are considering your next move, would like to discuss the very latest figures or simply want a fresh perspective on your property’s value, I am here to help. Let’s start a conversation, give me a call today.

129

Median Days to Sell

How far does your budget stretch?

Major retail banks have recently hiked their fixed-term mortgage rates, citing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and global economic uncertainties that have escalated offshore wholesale funding costs. Crucially for buyers, banks are applying much stricter serviceability test rates. These internal calculation rates are set significantly higher than advertised retail rates, directly reducing actual consumer borrowing capacity. Navigating the market with a fully locked-in pre-approval has never been more vital.

134

$1,050,000 $1,125,000 $1,060,000

June Sales - Average per bedrooms 1 bedroom 2 bedrooms 3 bedrooms 4 bedrooms 5+ bedrooms

$692,000 $840,000 $1,004,000 $1,162,000 $1,495,000

Jason Croft | 021 33 22 57 | jason.croft@iagent.co.nz Independent Agent, A branch of eXp New Zealand Ltd. Licensed REAA (2008) Disclaimer: Data has been provided by a third party (REINZ). All care has been taken to ensure the information is accurate, but it may differ from other sources due to timings.

25


NZ OWNED. LOVED BY THOUSANDS OF KIWIS. Christmas Jumpers NZ/AU brings festive PJs, jumpers, and homewares to families across NZ and Australia — and our new 2026 range is landing soon.

OUR NEW 2026 CHRISTMAS COLLECTION LAUNCHES SUNDAY 13 SEPTEMBER!

We’re revealing it piece by piece on socials right now — new PJs, a gorgeous new jumper, returning favourites, and more. Follow along to see it all before launch, and join our waitlist for exclusive early access on launch night.

christmasjumpers.co.nz

christmasjumpersnzau


THE GREEN SPOT When having a scrap is a good thing

THE

oAsTiEs MAG

CAUGHT YOUR EYE, DIDN’T WE? Food upcycling sounds like something that happens from an upset tummy, but it actually means using food materials that would otherwise be wasted. Globally, we lose around $1 trillion USD of food per year, including down incinerators and into landfill. Compost, food waste bins and animal feeds are much better options, but the most value would be retained if leftovers were used for human consumption. Also, with about 9% of greenhouse gases thought to be caused by food waste, addressing this matter would help tackle climate change. This month I invite you to consider ways of using every last scrap of your produce from peel to pip. The stalks of broccoli and cauliflower can be shaved or finely sliced for your next salad or trim and roast them with oil and seasonings. Steam them as batons or stir fry them matchstick sized. Batter them for tempura or chop them into soups, taking care not to cook them too long or they’ll produce an unpleasant fragrance. Chard stems and even leftover cobs from sweetcorn can make great bases for vegetable stocks and the core of a cabbage can also be included in a salad or coleslaw.

baking kale chips or chop, then char, then steam. As for vege peelings, such as potato, kumara, parsnip, carrot or even pumpkin, they can be made into delicious chips by tossing them in oil and seasoning, such as salt, cumin, paprika or chopped rosemary. Zest those citrus peels and if you prefer your apples and pears naked, use the peel for slaws or dehydrate them in your oven for muesli. Over ripe banana skins can be pureed into banana bread or marinated and fried to make vegan bacon! Seeds can be fried or roasted and then either eaten like a nutty snack or sprinkled onto salads and soups. Stale seeds and nuts can be re-roasted to bring back their crunch. Next month I’ll share more tips like this, including recipes using by-products in your pantry that you may be unwittingly wasting.

Discounts & free design apply when booking for multiple consecutive issues. advertising@ thecoastiesmag.co.nz 021 771 140

$275+GST

Hayley Crawford @trashtalkingmama

Kale stems can be fermented for sauerkraut and kimchi or thrown into a high-powered blender for healthy kale juice. Finely slice the stalks for

27


The summer body vs the year-round body I recently woke up in Raurimu – near the ski fields of the central North Island to a very cold –3°C. This was followed by a very enjoyable snowboarding session (minimal injuries!) down Whakapapa. At the risk of pointing out the blatantly obvious, it is fair to say that we have just escaped the depths of a chilly winter. And it got me thinking. So much of our culture is seemingly obsessed with ‘the summer body’ – the Instagram-worthy, toned and bronzed physique for those bikinis or budgie smugglers – brought to the forefront of one’s mind even more so when we live quite literally surrounded by beaches. I am a big fan of looking how you want to look. I know how much hard work goes into achieving a particular aesthetic. But if we were to shift this perspective, and instead of trying to peak for summer we maintained a healthy approach year round, we could in fact be happier and healthier. A 2019 meta-analysis pooling data from over 480,000 people found that people whose weight fluctuated up and down had meaningfully higher risk of cardiovascular disease and death from any cause than people whose weight stayed steady, regardless of their starting weight. It’s one of the better pieces of evidence that the cycling itself, not just the number on the scale, carries a cost. Don’t get me wrong. I know it’s hardly appealing to go for a run when it’s blowing a gale and you can’t feel your fingers, but we don’t need to let ourselves go just because those North Face puffer jackets are good at covering any extra winter bulk! So, with the chilliness and unpredictability of early spring upon us, keep moving when you can, incorporate a resistance training programme (you can’t build muscle without it), and focus on high protein meals. That’s not to say you can’t enjoy a few treats, of course. I’ll be the first to admit after a day on the slopes I will race you to the front of the mulled wine queue. Après-ski, baby. You’re not a bear, so don’t hibernate during cold weather. Keep moving! Yours in fitness. Jumper www.peclub.co.nz

28


Who really owns your insurance policy? And why it matters at claim time The ownership structure of your personal insurance policies is far more important than many realize. It is critical that your policy ownership is correctly matched to your personal and financial circumstances.

A common misconception: life insured vs policy owner

Understanding your ownership options While several ownership options exist, two of the most common setups are sole ownership and joint ownership. Sole policy ownership •

How it works: One person is designated as the sole owner of the policy (often the person insured, but not always).

•

At claim time: Upon the owner’s death, policy proceeds go into their estate to be distributed according to their will.

•

Key consideration: Payouts can be frozen pending a grant of probate. If a surviving spouse relies on these funds for immediate household bills, mortgage repayments, or funeral expenses, estate delays can create immense financial pressure.

Just last week, I met with a couple who each had separate life cover policies with different insurers. The wife naturally assumed that if her husband passed away, his policy payout would come directly to her as his surviving partner. However, when we checked the paperwork, the husband was listed as the sole policy owner of BOTH policies – his own and his wife’s.

Joint policy ownership

The wife was stunned to learn that if her husband passed away, the funds from his life cover would not go directly to her as a surviving policy owner. Instead, because he was the sole policy owner, the payout would be directed into his estate, tying up the funds in probate delays at the exact moment she would need immediate cash flow.

•

At claim time: Funds bypass the estate entirely and transfer directly to the surviving policy owner under survivorship rules, providing fast access to money when it is needed most.

•

Key consideration: Any administrative changes during your lifetime require

•

How it works: You and another person (typically a spouse or partner) jointly own and manage the policy.

signed authorization from both owners. Furthermore, if a relationship breaks up, both parties must mutually agree on how to split or restructure the policy.

Looking ahead to next month Having the right ownership structure ensures your funds reach the right hands without delay. However, what happens if a sole (or joint) policy owner becomes seriously ill or physically unable to sign a claim form while still alive? Next month, we will look at the crucial role of Enduring Powers of Attorney in ensuring your insurance claims and personal assets can still be managed by someone you trust during incapacitation.

Theo Simeonidis | UProtectNZ Insurance Services Theo is a Financial Adviser, living and working in Millwater on the Hibiscus Coast, and specialising in personal and business insurances. Theo can be contacted on 027 248 9320 or email theo@uprotectnz.com. Any assistance is provided on a free, no-obligation basis. A public disclosure statement is available on the www.uprotectnz.com website.

29


THE FICTION SPOT Drifting Away By Rosa Gaete

The sky was stained crimson. In the hazy morning at La Havre harbour, the sun looked like an orange balloon permeating through the fog and playfully reflecting itself on the swelling sea. The port machinery and boat masts ghostly immersed in the misty atmosphere. Three small fishing boats slowly drifted away from the port. The year was 1872. I was on one of the

boats. The surrounding humidity dampened my face and hands. There were two men on the boat; one was rowing. We were going cod fishing. I sat quietly for a while, listening to the rhythmic splash of the oars, the gurgle of water, and the creaking of the boat as it moved along. Then I asked the men where the handlines were. The men looked at

me, surprised, wondering how come they hadn’t seen me before, and who I was, but they said nothing in that regard. One of them pointed to the side of the boat where I could see the fishing lines. Once we had left the port behind, we soon arrived at a nearby fishing ground. We dropped the handlines already baited, and we reeled in fish after fish. The catch of the day was plentiful. With a fish-laden boat, we headed back home. As we approached the coast, I saw the fishermen’s entire families waiting for us. After we unloaded the fish, mothers, wives, daughters, sons helped remove the cod’s head, spine, and guts. Once this was done, they split the fish and covered them with a layer of coarse salt. Finally, the fish were spread on wooden racks, which they called flakes, to dry in the sun. The ground was strewn with flakes, full of fish. While working, people kept looking at the overcast sky, menacing at times. Fortunately, as the evening advanced, the clouds seemed to get intimidated by those incisive looks and quickly drifted away, disappearing on the horizon. A decision was made; the fish would remain outdoors. It wasn’t going to rain. I was as relieved as they were. It would’ve dreadful to see them bring all those flakes inside. While everybody was so busy working, I tried to help, but no one seemed to notice me. I tried

Worried about rising interest rates? What does this mean for your mortgage when your fixed term expires? WE’LL FIND A SOLUTION THAT BEST SUITS YOUR SITUATION. wayne@waynehenry.co.nz

30

Let’s chat 021 423 818 www.waynehenry.co.nz

0800 WHENRY

to talk to people, but they just passed me by, ignoring me completely. What was happening? Then, I realised I didn’t belong there. I turned around and saw many people dressed in ways completely different from those of the people salting the fish. They were wandering through halls full of paintings. Some of the paintings had many people gathered around them. I, myself, was in the middle of a crowd looking at and photographing a painting named ‘Impression, Sunrise’ by Claude Monet. (1) I turned back to the painting and saw the red sky and the three fishing boats, which seemed to be just carried along by the movement of the water, and I wasn’t on one of them; I was at the Marmottan Monet Museum in Paris. The year was 2025.

HIBISCUS COAST WRITERS For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Membership Secretary, Paula at paulajkora@ hotmail.com


The courage to talk Why tackling conflict early changes everything

Most people don’t enjoy conflict. Many avoid it entirely. We sidestep awkward conversations, deliver vague half‑truths, or hope issues will magically resolve themselves. But the truth is simple: avoiding conflict doesn’t prevent it – it multiplies it.

The silent saboteur: avoidance In workplaces, families and friendships, unspoken frustrations behave like small drops of water falling into a glass. One drop seems harmless. Over days or weeks, the glass fills. Eventually it spills – often over something trivial. When conflict isn’t addressed early, it grows roots. Some express avoidance through passive‑aggressive behaviour. Instead of saying, ‘This isn’t working for me,’ they withdraw, make sarcastic remarks or give minimal, non‑confrontational responses. Think of the classic restaurant moment: a server asks, ‘How’s your meal?’, and the diner replies, ‘Fine, thanks’, even when it isn’t. Nothing gets fixed because nothing gets named.

Why we hesitate For many, the fear isn’t conflict itself, it’s the fear of offending someone. In some cultures, including New Zealand’s, people often prefer to ‘vote with their feet’, quietly disappearing instead of giving constructive criticism.

Saying ‘no’ can feel uncomfortable, so people can make vague promises that later fall through, breeding more disappointment.

A better path: conflict as opportunity Handled well, conflict becomes fuel for improvement. Honest feedback gives teams clarity. Direct conversations reset expectations. Addressing issues quickly prevents emotional build‑up and often protects relationships rather than damaging them.

Five practical techniques for tackling conflict 1. Be openly curious. Instead of approaching the situation like a confrontation, treat it like a puzzle. Ask questions. Explore what’s really happening. Curiosity lowers defensiveness. 2. Look for the underlying issue. Surface problems are rarely the whole story. A missed deadline might actually be about unclear roles, unrealistic workload or personal stress. 3. Set shared rules of engagement. Agree on how you’ll talk – no interruptions, respectful tone, focus on the issue not the person. Structure transforms uncomfortable conversations into productive ones.

4. Deal with things immediately. A simple line such as, ‘I can see something’s bothering you. Let’s talk it through now’, can prevent weeks of tension. 5. Build regular check‑ins. Weekly or fortnightly touchpoints give small irritations a place to be aired before they grow.

The bottom line Conflict isn’t the enemy, avoidance is. When we choose courage over discomfort, relationships strengthen, teams perform better and problems shrink instead of swell. Chris Norris | AllBrand Cert. MKTG | MCC | Cert. Typography Former Chairman of Business Whangaparaoa and Board Member for Silverdale Business. Mentor with the Business Mentors Programme at MBIE. Now runs a locally focussed branding business. Allbrand.co.nz – Revealing the true USP in businesses. Chris@allbrand.co.nz Excerpt from a session between members of the Independent Board facilitated by Lijlanie Viljoen.

31


Choosing the right flooring for real family life

At Midway Flooring, we often talk to homeowners who know exactly what they want their new floor to look like – it’s easy to fall in love with a colour, texture or style – but they aren’t always sure what they should be looking for in terms of durability and practicality. Our advice is simple: choose a floor that suits the way you live, not just the way you want your home to look.

Think about your everyday life If you have an active family or pets, there are a few things worth considering before making your decision. Durability is an obvious one. High-traffic areas such as hallways, living rooms and entrances need a flooring product that can cope with plenty of foot traffic without showing excessive wear. Stain resistance and easy cleaning are also important. Children, muddy paws, food spills and everyday accidents are simply part of

32

family life. Choosing a floor that is easy to clean and designed to resist staining can make a big difference. For homes with pets, scratch resistance should be considered too. Dogs in particular can put a surprising amount of wear on a floor, especially around entrances and areas where they regularly run or turn. Then there’s water resistance. This can be particularly useful around kitchens, dining areas, entrances and homes where pets come and go from outside. Flooring is a significant investment, so it’s not just your everyday life now you should think about. It’s worth thinking beyond today, to how your household might change over the next five, ten or even fifteen years.

much more noticeable. A high-gloss finish can highlight scratches and marks. Some flooring also requires more maintenance than others to retain that showroom look, so understanding what care is involved before you buy can help prevent surprises later. Our Whangaparāoa showroom has a wide range of carpet and hard flooring to explore, and you can take samples home to see how they look in your own space, alongside your furniture, cabinetry and natural light. We can also bring a selection of samples to you for an in-home consultation to help you find a flooring solution that looks great and works for the way you really live.

Rena Nicholson | Midway Flooring Don’t choose based on looks alone A very dark floor might look fantastic in the showroom but can make dust and pet hair

www.midwayflooring.co.nz 675 Whangaparaoa Road 09 424 3790


The rising costs of staying put

For many retirees, the family home remains their biggest asset, but increasingly, it can also represent a significant ongoing expense. Whether there is still a mortgage to pay or not, the costs associated with owning and maintaining a home can continue to rise well into retirement. Across the Hibiscus Coast, homeowners are facing increasing Council rates, higher insurance premiums and the ongoing costs of maintaining ageing homes and sections. The ability to attend to maintenance tasks may also not be as easy as it used to be. Painting, roofing, plumbing, redecorating, assistance with lawns, tree-work and gardens can all add up – often at a stage of life when income has become more fixed. For retirees, it’s not just the size of individual bills that can cause concern, but also their unpredictability. Pip Macdonald, who lives in a villa at The Botanic Hibiscus Coast, says the difference has become increasingly apparent in the years since she moved. ‘No longer having to be concerned about the ever increasing Council bills and the maintenance costs of our 1920s bungalow has been very reassuring and has made it easier to plan our long term budgets.’ Fellow resident Brian Mullan, former editor of The Millwater Mag, says rising home ownership costs were an important consideration in their decision to move. ‘When we looked at what annually increasing Council and water rates, insurance premiums and property maintenance were costing, it really began to make less sense to stay put in our large Millwater home,’ says Brian. ‘We are now enjoying the absolute predictability in our outgoings. This has allowed us to have a much more relaxed financial attitude, especially in planning for extra holidays abroad.’ It’s one reason many retirees are looking more closely at the financial structure of retirement village living, alongside the lifestyle and community benefits.

At The Botanic, residents pay a weekly village fee that is fixed for life. It covers council rates, water, home maintenance, building insurance, security, gardens, rubbish removal and the upkeep of village amenities. For residents, that can mean fewer unexpected property-related bills and greater certainty when planning retirement finances. As the cost of traditional home ownership continues to rise, the conversation around downsizing is changing. The question is no longer simply whether you can afford to move. Increasingly, it is also worth asking ‘What will it cost to stay?’ For an obligation-free chat about what a move to The Botanic could look like financially, contact Sales Manager Michelle Pipping at michelle@thebotanic.co.nz or 0508 268 264.

www.thebotanic.co.nz


in Village in Silverdale Silverdale PPioneer ioneer V illage Auckland Auckland Heritage Heritage Festival Festival 22026 026

Tastes of Tamaki: A Heritage Feast

“Tastes of Tamaki: A Heritage Feast”

Take a peek inside a Pioneer Pantry, discover what went on the plate, how it was prepared and enjoy our ‘apple pie’ hunt!

Take a peek inside a Pioneer Pantry, discover what from 26 September went on the plate, how it was prepared and Open Saturday and Sunday 10am to 3pm enjoy our “apple pie” hunt ! ….. from 26 September th

Open SatuLots rdato y asee ndand Sudo ndfor ayall10ages am to 3pm Entry by donation

Lots to see an15d Wainui do for aRoad, ll agesSilverdale - Entry by donation 15 Wainui Road, Silverdale, more details on www. silverdalepioneervillage.com More details on www.silverdalepioneervillage.com


BUCKET LIST TRAVEL

Travel tips you’ll wish you knew sooner Here are a few simple tricks that can save you time, money and a whole lot of unnecessary holiday stress. There’s nothing quite like travelling the world – but sometimes it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference. After years of helping our clients navigate airports, foreign cities, lost luggage and everything in between, we’ve picked up a few handy tricks that are worth knowing before you head off on your next adventure. Don’t rely on having internet. Before you leave home, download your destination on Google Maps so you can navigate even when your mobile coverage disappears. It’s particularly useful when driving overseas. We also recommend taking screenshots of

important information such as hotel addresses, flight and train details, booking confirmations and QR codes. If the Wi-Fi decides to go on holiday before you do, you’ll still have everything you need at your fingertips.

missing, you’ll have a clear record to show the airline or your travel insurer. Pop an AirTag or similar tracker inside too – it won’t retrieve the bag for you, but knowing where it is can be incredibly helpful.

Save money on mobile data. An eSIM can be a much cheaper alternative to international roaming. You can purchase and install one before you leave, then simply activate it when you arrive. You’ll be able to use maps, messaging and travel apps without relying on expensive roaming charges. Just check that your phone is eSIM compatible first.

And don’t forget the basics! A universal travel adapter with USB and USB-C ports is one of those small purchases you’ll use trip after trip. Finally, download a translation app before you go. Many can translate menus, signs and notices simply by pointing your phone camera at them.

Take a photo of your suitcase. Before checking your luggage in, photograph the outside of the bag and, even better, the contents while you’re packing. If your suitcase goes

Travel isn’t about eliminating every little hiccup – it’s about being prepared enough that the hiccups don’t spoil the adventure. www.bucketlisttravel.co.nz

35


Got your attention? Good. Now imagine your advert here with all these eyes on you. Book a half page for your business today!

$425+ GST THE

oAsTiEs MAG

Discounts & free design apply when booking for multiple consecutive issues.

advertising@thecoastiesmag.co.nz | 021 771 140

ABOUT US Located in the heart of Silverdale, we specialise in European vehicles — including BMW, Audi, Mercedes and Volkswagen — but service all makes and models. Our experienced technicians deliver honest, high-quality care using the latest tools and technology. From routine maintenance to complex repairs, we treat every car like our own. Choose local. Choose experience. Choose peace of mind.

KITCHENS

SOME OF OUR SERVICES INCLUDE Servicing & Repairs WOF Testing Tyres & Wheel Alignment Vehicle Diagnostics Pre-purchase Inspections

CONTACT US Unit 5/14 Curley Avenue Silverdale +64 9 421 1413 info@silverdalecarservices.co.nz silverdalecarservices.co.nz facebook.com/SilverdaleCarServices2017

36

Engine Enhancement & Tuning Suspension & Brakes Air Conditioning Service & Repair Transmission Service & Repairs/Clutches Hydrogen Carbon Cleaning Cam Belt Replacements

SCULLERIES

LAUNDRIES

CABINETRY

Designed to live beautifully. Crafted around the way your family lives. Nearly 30 years in business - NZ made and backed by a 10 year guarantee. Vis i t o ur De s ig n Ce n t re MASTERCRAFT LICENSEE 177 Millwater Parkway www.kitchenpeople.co.nz


Fresh thoughts on feeding kids

Mealtimes should be a time of connection and coming together as a family. However, we parents often inadvertently serve up hearty side dishes of pressure. Our best intentions to get our kids to eat well and enough can make them anxious. And when you feel anxious, you don’t feel hungry. Let’s take a closer look at some common family food challenges.

Should kids finish their dinner before dessert? Short answer, no. From a neuroscience perspective, ‘no dessert until you’ve eaten all your dinner’ reinforces the idea that dinner isn’t very nice. We want to let food be food. We don’t want dessert on a higher pedestal. Here’s a wild idea – serve dessert alongside dinner a couple of times a week. You might be surprised and find that rather than only eating the ice cream, kids will take a bite of what they want, when they want, and will finish when they’re full. Not only does this

bring dessert down from its lofty heights, but it also helps our kids avoid over-eating. School lunchboxes – what shall we do when they come home half eaten? School can be very dysregulating, so this is complex, but generally speaking – don’t be too concerned by a lunchbox that’s barely been touched. Children don’t have to eat all their lunch. You might find your child better manages a big breakfast and then a big afternoon tea when they get home. Aim to give them a boost to get them through the school day. Pack in their lunchbox what you know they’ll eat to give them energy. Get the kids to help pack their own lunchboxes, and when they make a mistake, like not packing enough and coming home hungry, ask them what they can do differently next time?

Is hiding vegetables a good idea? Not really, no, although it depends on the

age of the child and their awareness. We don’t want our kids to lose their trust in us, so let them know you’re blending spinach into the sauce as soon as they’re able to spot it. We want kids to grow up able to eat vegetables without it being a covert operation. The goal is young adults who help themselves to salad at their university hall!

My child says they hate vegetables – what do I do? Try the calm and simple response: ‘We don’t talk about food like that in this house.’ Tell them, ‘It’s just something you don’t eat yet’ or ‘You’re still learning to like it’. This reminds them that while they might not like something now, there’s room for change.

Condensed with permission from insights by leading New Zealand child nutrition expert and co-founder of The Food Tree, Rachael Wilson, originally published at parentingplace.nz

Got a favourite recipe that’s too good to keep to yourself? We’d love to share it. Email editor@thecoastiesmag.co.nz 37


Family and relationships Where to turn for support Parenting challenges, relationship difficulties, separation, financial stress or family violence can be difficult to navigate alone. At Citizens Advice Bureau Hibiscus Coast, our volunteers regularly help people with issues including separation and divorce, strained relationships, parenting and care arrangements, and relationship property matters.

Parenting and family support If things are becoming difficult at home, seeking advice early can make a difference. We can connect you with free and fee-paying services offering: •

personalised parenting support and education

•

counselling for couples, individuals and families

•

support for parents dealing with toddlers or challenging adolescent behaviour

•

counselling and support for children and young people

Every family is different. We can help identify services that may be a good fit for you.

Relationships If you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship, counselling can be helpful before deciding whether separation is the only option. Relationship or couples counselling can help partners better understand themselves and each other, work through conflict and explore positive changes. There are both free and paid options available. For more information, visit cab.org.nz and search: • •

What can I expect from relationship counselling? Is there any way we can get free relationship counselling?

Family violence and harm If you are experiencing family violence, you are not alone and it is not your fault. Family violence can include physical, emotional, psychological, sexual or financial abuse. We can connect you with urgent support and information about counselling and education programmes for victim-survivors and people who use violence. Support is available online and in person for women, men, young people and children. The Shielded Site allows people experiencing family violence to search for information online without it appearing in their browser history. Look for The Shielded Site logo at the bottom of the CAB website, or on participating New Zealand retail, banking and government websites.

Financial stress and budgeting Financial pressure can place enormous strain on individuals, couples and families. Free, confidential services are available

to help with budgeting, debt and financial mentoring. If you are on a low income or receiving a benefit, you may also be entitled to additional assistance through Work and Income (WINZ), such as food assistance, accommodation support or help with unexpected costs, or through Inland Revenue (IRD), including tax credits and family-related support. We can help you understand what assistance may be available and connect you with free advice and advocacy.

Need more? You don’t have to wait until a problem becomes a crisis. If something is worrying you, we can help you understand your options and connect you with further support. Contact CAB for free, confidential information and advice on freephone 0800 367 222, online at cab.org.nz. or visit us in person.

CAB Hibiscus Coast locations Orewa Community Centre Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 3:30pm 38

Whangaparaoa Library Outreach: Wed: 10am to 12noon (excluding public holidays)


ART SPEAK

Celebrate spring with art, creativity and culture at Estuary Arts Centre As spring arrives on the Hibiscus Coast, Estuary Arts Centre invites the community to celebrate with an inspiring programme of exhibitions, workshops and cultural experiences. Throughout September, visitors can discover five new exhibitions showcasing painting, ceramics, sculpture, mixed media and community creativity, making it the perfect time to explore the arts centre.

Clay piece by Amanda Morton

Leading the month’s offerings in Gallery One is From Bush to Beach: Echoes of Coast and Canopy. Sue Lockett presents works inspired by New Zealand’s landscapes, exploring the quiet relationships that weave through the natural world. Other artists in the space include Tracey Currington, whose encaustic and acrylic works bring depth, texture and colour to her observations of the world around her. Rachel Moore showcases delicate pen-and-ink and watercolour creations, capturing both detail and atmosphere with remarkable sensitivity. Completing the exhibition is Amanda Morton, whose figurative and nature-inspired ceramic works offer a tactile and thoughtful interpretation of the forms and stories found in the natural environment. Gallery Two: Light, Place and Memory by Tim Houghton an exhibition that explores the colours, cultures and vibrancy of places and people from around the world. Featuring watercolour and acrylic paintings, the collection invites viewers to slow down and reflect on the beauty that surrounds us. Through his use of colour, light and composition, Houghton captures the visual experiences and quiet moments often discovered in unexpected places, encouraging a deeper appreciation of the world we inhabit. Gallery Three: A Celebration of Our Four-Legged Friends. Animal lovers are sure to enjoy Gallery Three’s lively and entertaining exhibition dedicated to our beloved pets. Visitors can expect a fun-filled display of paintings, sculpture, ceramics, mixed media works and more, all celebrating the unique personalities, antics and charm of our faithful four-legged companions.

Hands of a Drummer – Egypt by Tim Houghton

Adding a unique community perspective, Nurture Early Learning Centre presents Languages in Clay, an invitation to slow down and step into children’s thinking through clay with curiosity, wonder and persistence. This thoughtful exhibition highlights the creative processes of young learners and demonstrates how clay can become a powerful language for exploration, communication and discovery. Visit Estuary Arts Centre With an exciting mix of exhibitions, community engagement and creative learning opportunities, September is the perfect time to visit Estuary Arts Centre and welcome the arrival of spring through art. To book tickets, workshops or find out more about upcoming exhibitions and events, visit www.estuaryarts.org or call 09 426 5570. Estuary Arts Centre is open seven days a week and welcomes visitors of all ages.

Orewa to Red Beach by Sue Lockett

39


"Simple - Respectful - Dignified" Our Simple Cremation, provides a cost effective and uncomplicated option for caring for your loved one, without embalming or additional services. It is designed for families who prefer a straightforward "no-fuss" approach, while maintaining a respectful and dignified service. From your first call, our experienced team will gently support you every step of the way. We’ll arrange for your loved one to come into our care and take care of all the necessary details, giving you peace of mind during this difficult time. For more personalised or traditional funeral options, please give us a call or visit our website to view the range of packages available.

0800 420 470

O u r f a m i l y. C a r i n g f o r y o u r f a m i l y.

Tracey Brown

1

Get In Touch

2

Simply contact us and we will arrange to bring your loved one into our care and begin the simple cremation process.

3

Cremation Our team will gently care for your loved one and handle the cremation with dignity and respect.

40

Documentation We will guide you through all required paperwork and assist in obtaining the necessary permissions for cremation.

4

Recieving Ashes Ashes are usually ready within two working days after cremation, and we will return them to you once all arrangements have been settled.

0800 420 470 7 Greenview Lane, Red Beach www.hibiscusfunerals.co.nz


BEST BOOKS Karen McMillan Author

Looking for your next great read? Let our local author guide you.

Lit by Anna Woods Anna Woods has won awards for her short stories, but now she has produced her first novel, LIT, a literary suspense novel. The architecture practice LIT in Auckland is in financial ruin, and the three partners, Gin, Billy and Clary are in turmoil. Billy was supposed to be dead – he promised Gin before he disappeared out of their lives – but Gin starts catching glimpses of him while she tries to care for Clary, his fragile ex-girlfriend. This is a tangled trio with long-standing business relationships, but also a fractured personal life, and all of them are hiding secrets. The pressure is mounting. LIT is drowning in debt, and Gin is hiding her role in Billy’s disappearance, while Clary is becoming increasingly distant and seemingly mentally unwell. Added to that is a journalist hounding Gin about a former client and possible fraud. While they work on a business submission that could save their foundering company, Gin feels increasingly stressed and paranoid. This is a novel about gaslighting, control and obsession, as the characters are forced to confront a shocking past that refuses to stay buried. Twisty and thought-provoking, LIT has well-crafted characters and a feeling of claustrophobia as the tension mounts. Echo Publishing, RRP $38.00

To Rule a Ruler by Kaarina Parker Fulvia Flacca Bambula, a real-life woman who lived in a particularly turbulent time during the Roman Empire, is fictionalised and brought to life in this sweeping and compelling historical novel, the sequel to Kaarina Parker’s stunning debut novel, Fulvia. Fulvia was an ambitious and clever woman, and the true power behind the different men she married. When civil war erupts and Julius Caesar is assassinated, she marries Marcus Antonius, an old friend appointed by Caesar as his general. She is intent on him ruling Rome with her help, and they make a perilous decision to try to achieve ultimate power. They have many enemies: the men who killed Caesar, Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt, the great orator Cicero, and Julius Caesar’s named successor, Octavian. This compelling historical novel plunges readers into a whirlpool of political alliances and intrigue, war, love and passion. And it is fascinating to see this period of history from a woman’s perspective, albeit a person who had links to the ancient criminal gangs, who was incredibly wealthy, resourceful, and willing to sacrifice everything for ultimate power. Karen McMillan | www.karenm.co.nz

Echo Publishing, RRP $40.00

41


WHAT'S ON HIBISCUS COAST HIBISCUS COAST SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB

ST CHAD MARKET 1st Sat of every month 8am-noon 117 Centreway Rd, Orewa. Grant 021 0830 7743 or email office@ hbcanglicanparish.nz

MILLWATER PARKRUN

HIBISCUS COAST ARTISTS GROUP Meet on Mon 9.30am-1pm Stanmore Bay Community Hall Whangaparoa. All Welcome. Shana 021 650 184

Every Sat 8am See www.parkrun.co.nz/ millwater for more details

ROTARY CLUB OF OREWA-MILLWATER 1st & 3rd Tues of every month 7pm at The Wade Tavern. 2 Tavern Rd Silverdale. orc.secretary@outlook.com

HIBISCUS COAST MIDWEEK BADMINTON CLUB

UKELELE CLASSES Every Thurs at St Andrew’s Church Hall. 107 Centreway Dr 1pm-2:15pm. $15 includes music. Avon Hansen-Beadle 021 421 109

HBC GRANDPARENTS PARENTING GRANDCHILDREN Monthly 1st Wed, Support Group. Maygrove Retirement Village. 10:30-1:30 free lunch. Weekly for Coffee Group each Wed 10:30 (various locations). Donna 021 024 30064.

LADIES CRAFT GROUP Every school term Tues Orewa Community Church 235 HBC H’way. 10am-12pm. $2 for morning tea & craft creche provided.

ARTS GROUP Every school term Friday Orewa Community Church 235 HBC H’way. 9am-1pm $2 incl. morning tea Alan 021 039 7155

HIBISCUS COAST ROCK & ROLL Every Tues. W’poa Hall 7pm lessons. 8pm general dancing. Wear soft sole flat shoes. See website & Facebook

HIBISCUS COAST CONCERT BANK Every 2nd Thurs All ages & abilities welcome hccb.org.nz Call 021 186 4599

HBC SENIOR CITIZENS ASSN. INC. Meet Tues for Indoor bowls & cards at Orewa Community Hall. 12-4pm. Membership $5/yr. $2 entry includes afternoon tea. Edna Tibble 0272975554

SILVERDALE VILLAGE MARKET

FREE FAMILY HISTORY RESEARCH ADVICE Mon/Wed/Thur & Sat 10-noon at W'poa Library. By Volunteers from HBC Genealogy Group. Garry on 021 902715 or garryphillips2010@gmail.com

DANCE FITNESS CLASS Every Tues/Thurs evening 7-8pm at Kingsway Jnr Campus. First class FREE then $10 per session. Richard 021 504084

WHANGAPARAOA INDOOR BOWLS CLUB W’poa School Hall Mon 7pm. All ages, beginners welcome. Coaching provided. Maurice 027 392 0541

SILVERDALE BALLROOM STUDIO Every Thurs Silverdale Hall 7pm. Adult & Improvers classes for beginners & social dancers. 021 031 4216

KIWI CLUB 4th Sun of each month. Social Dance 5-8pm, all welcome. Silverdale Hall.

HIBISCUS COAST GENEALOGY CLUB 3rd Tuesday of each month at St Chads Church, 117 Centreway Road, Orewa 2-4pm. Guest speaker. Afternoon tea and fellowship follows. Members free, visitors welcome, $5.

PUHOI CELTIC SESSIONS

Every 2nd Thurs at Orewa North Primary School. A sing-around/ play-around event. Alan

HIBISCUS COAST EMBROIDERY GUILD 2nd Weds 7-9pm & 4th Thurs 10am-noon. Hibiscus Coast Community House. Josie Slack hibiscus.embroidery2022@ gmail.com

PIONEER DANCE CLUB Every Thurs at Silverdale Hall 1.30-3.30pm. Social Ballroom Dance for seniors. 021 031 4216

HIBISCUS PETANQUE CLUB

HEARTBEATS CARDIAC SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUP

SUICIDE BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT Last Mon of every month (Jan-Nov) 7-9pm HBC Community House. Support for anyone who has lost a loved one. Susan 021 884 162

RED BEACH COMBINED CLUB 3rd Wed of every month Orewa Presbyterian Church 10am-12pm. Friendship Club for seniors. Morning tea, guest speakers & outings. Colleen 021 112 3409

LINE DANCE CLASSES Beginners class Weds 10am-midday at Silverdale Hall. Great way to exercise to music & make friends. Sue 021 99 1717

10PIN BOWLING FOR SENIORS W’poa Bowling Centre, Arkles Bay. Looking for senior players to join club for league games. Mon & Fri 10am. Lots of fun and advice. Brett 0210530905

OREWA LIONS CLUB 1st & 3rd Weds 6.30pm (7pm start) at St Chads Hall 117 Centreway Road, Orewa. Wendy 021 841 125,

OREWA GARDEN CLUB

HIBISCUS COAST COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB 1st Sun each month Orewa Community Centre 1-4pm $5.00. Everyone welcome. Janet 0212367094

TRAVEL CLUB with Bucket List Travel. 2nd Tues of every month (Feb-Nov) 9:45am–11am Red Beach SurfLifesaving Club. Michelle 094261490

HIBISCUS COAST QUILTERS 1st Tues of the month at 9.30am & 3rd Weds at 7.30pm. W’poa Community Hall. Beginners, experienced quilters & visitors welcome. hbcquilters@gmail.com

SILVERDALE NAVAL CLUB

HOUSIE Every Friday 12.30pm ($1000 jackpot) at Bowls Orewa, 214 Hibiscus Highway. Ph 09 426 5937

HIBISCUS COAST FRIENDSHIP CLUB 4th Wed of the month at 10am Bridge Club rooms, Edith Hopper Park, Manly. Speakers/outings/luncheons together. Peter or Jeanne 09 4268675.

HIBISCUS COAST LITERARY CLUB 2nd Sat of the month @ 1pm W’poa Library Workshops. By authors. Writing competitions. Friendly atmosphere. Everyone welcome.

DAIRY FLAT MUSIC CLUB

Every Weds Silverdale Hall 7:00pm

alanthewag@outlook.com

2nd Thurs of month Feb–Nov 12.30–3pm. St John’s Catholic Church Hall, Orewa. Visitors welcome. orewagardenclub@outlook. co.nz

HIBISCUS COAST ORCHID SOCIETY 2nd Sunday of the month. Feb–Dec 1-3pm Masonic Lodge, Centreway Road, Orewa. Visitors welcome. Bruce 09 947 5787

IS YOUR CLUB OR EVENT LISTED HERE? IF NOT, CONTACT US TO BE INCLUDED!

42

Every Sat 8am -1pm Silverdale St Silverdale

Every Tues/Weds 9am12 & Sun 1pm at 214 HBC Highway. New players welcome, free coaching. John 0274894955

Every Weds 9am-noon All welcome . Orewa Badminton Hall, Victor Eaves Park. 021 0870 8118

1st Tues of every month 10am at HBC Community House. Open to all heart event survivors & their families. Trent Lash 0220 606 199

orewalionsclub@gmail.com

meets the 3rd Sun of each month at HBC Community RSA at 15.00. Vince Sturmey 09 4285222

Weekly dances/events with live music held at The Dairy Flat Hall, Postman’s Rd. Visit www.dairyflatlive.com for more info.

Contact advertising@thecoastiesmag.co.nz T&Cs apply


SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL Fashion / Art Gifts Homewares Christmas Jumpers NZ/AU

christmasjumpers.co.nz

Estuary Arts 09 426 5570

Food, Entertainment, Sport & Recreation Auckland Youth Orchestra ayo.org.nz Fishing Direct 09 426 0574 Ocean View Retreat stayorewa.co.nz

Health & WellBeing, Fitness & Beauty Kate Allen Aesthetics 09 421 0910 The Clarity Practice theclaritypractice.co.nz The Ritual Room 027 384 1111

Home, Garden & Design Albany Mowers & Machinery albanymowers.co.nz

Midway Flooring 09 424 3790 Mitre 10 MEGA Silverdale 09 426 0760 My Reno Guys myrenoguys.co.nz Shades Direct 0800 742 337 The Timber Doctor 022 501 8998 TK Revive 027 677 0747 The Kitchen People kitchenpeople.co.nz

Insurance / Finance Business Services

Millwater Law millwaterlaw.co.nz

Local Government, Council & Community

Simon Lucas Mitsubishi www.simonlucas.co.nz

Printing Treehouse Print

Forrest Funeral Services 09 426 7950

ryan@treehouseprint.co.nz

Harbour Hospice 021 226 2741

Retirement Living

HBC Community House 09 426 3598

The Botanic 0508 268 264

Hibiscus Funerals 0800 420 470 Mark Mitchell MP 09 426 6215

Silverdale Business MTF Silverdale 021 595 048 mtf.co.nz/silverdale Non Bank Loans 0800 232 848 UProtectNZ Insurance Services 027 248 9320 Wayne Henry Mortgages 0800WHENRY

Legal Heathcote Legal 09 475 5916 Martin & Parker Law 09 421 0559

Medical / Dental Optometrist

THE

oAsTiEs MAG

Orewa Optics 09 426 6646

ADVERTISE IN THE COASTIES MAG AND FEATURE HERE FOR FREE!

Motoring / Boating Transport

advertising@thecoastiesmag.co.nz 021 771 140

Rodney Auto Centre 09 426 5016 Silverdale Car Services 09 421 1413

Locals helping locals! Chat to MTF Silverdale for vehicle, personal and business loans. Responsible lending criteria and checks, terms and conditions apply. See mtf.co.nz/terms

Philip Markwick 021 627 942

Greg Hart 021 174 8484

mtf.co.nz/silverdale

43


LOCAL RECIPES Baileys, white & dark chocolate mousse with strawberries (4 portions in glasses)

Ingredients 2-3 cups of fresh strawberries (or other fresh berries) 2 Tbsp Icing sugar, sifted 4 #7 egg yolks 55g castor sugar 250ml full fat milk

2 leaves of sheet gelatine

50-70% chopped in small pieces

80ml Baileys cream liqueur

250ml very cold soft whipped cream (refrigerate), don’t over whip

100g good quality white chocolate chopped in small pieces

Grated chocolate for garnish

100g good quality dark chocolate

Whipped cream to finish

saucepan and stir with a wooden spoon constantly until thickened over a low to medium heat. Do not boil as it will scramble. Remove from the heat and stir in the gelatine until melted. Add the Baileys and split evenly into 2 bowls. Add the white chocolate to one bowl and the dark to the other bowl. Stir to melt the chocolate into the custard. Allow to cool so it has no warmth to the touch of the lip.

speed up the process by using the freezer) until just set on top, around 20-30 minutes, then add some strawberries and do the same with half of the white mix. Repeat this process 2 more times so you have 4 layers of dark/white/dark/white with each layer having some strawberries evenly distributed between each layer.

Method Hull and slice strawberries into approximately 3mm slices and place in a bowl. Add the sifted icing sugar and gently stir together and allow to sit for 15 minutes to macerate. You can add some strawberry liquor for that extra bit of yumminess. With a whisk or electric mixer, beat the egg yolks and sugar until light and creamy (around 6-7 minutes). Gently heat the milk in a heavy bottomed saucepan till just about to boil, don’t scorch. Slowly add to the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly. Don’t scramble the eggs!! Soften the gelatine leaves in cold water (around 20 seconds), remove and squeeze out the excess water. Place the egg mixture back into the same

44

Add half of the refrigerated whipped cream to each cool custard and gently fold in the cream till a smooth mixture. Use 4 fancy tall glasses and pour half the dark mix between the 4 glasses, try not to have the mixture pour down the side, as the glass should be clean for the next layer of mousse. Place in the fridge, (or you can

Refrigerate until set, around two hours. Add whipped cream to the top and garnish with grated chocolate. Mark Lane | Culinary Lane www.culinarylane.co.nz


Marinated mushroom melts Ingredients 16 large mushrooms, stalks removed

150g brie or mozzarella, cut into 8 cubes/wedges

8 large spinach leaves, tough stalks removed

4 Tbsp tomato paste or sundried tomato pesto

2 garlic cloves, crushed

4 Tbsp basil pesto

4 Tbsp fresh parsley

Salt and pepper

150ml olive oil

Method Mix the oil, parsley and garlic together in a large bowl and season well with salt and pepper.

Mix the tomato paste (or pesto) and basil pesto together in a small bowl. Spread a little of the mixture on the inside of each mushroom.

Add the mushrooms to the bowl, coat well in the flavoured oil and set aside to marinate for 30 minutes.

Place a spinach and cheese parcel in the centre of eight of the mushroom cups and cover each with another mushroom facing bowl down (like a mushroom macaron).

Lay a spinach leaf on a chopping board. Place a cube of cheese in the middle, season with pepper and wrap the leaf around to form a parcel. Do the same with the other seven leaves to make eight parcels.

Push half a wooden skewer diagonally through the centres to hold the sides together.

Cook on a barbeque (or in a pan) for 5-10 minutes on each side, brushing with the leftover oil mixture until the mushrooms are cooked and the cheese is melted. Serve with salad as a non-meat main or as a side dish.

Adapted from a recipe originally published in the BBC Vegetarian Good Food magazine.

45


WHAT'S ON AT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY Ōrewa Key Special events Remembering, Reflecting, Renewing: A Shared Journey Through Life and Loss – Holding On, Letting Go Sunday, 6 September at 1pm. Presenter Bron van der Geest (educator, health and wellbeing coach) will facilitate this event, offering participants an opportunity to explore their own experiences of loss, honour meaningful memories, and gently consider what it means to let go while continuing to carry love, connection and remembrance forward. Family History Resources with Garry Phillips Tuesdays, 8, 15 and 22 September. One session each week discovering what family history is all about and how to get started, an overview of Ancestry Library edition and other subscription sites and an introduction to relevant software and creating and managing Family trees online. Flourish Within Wellness Saturday, 12 September from 1pm to 3pm. Are you stuck, stressed, or overwhelmed? Now is your time to stand tall with confidence! Take advantage of this free mental fitness workshop with nurse and health coach, Hattie Bretherton. A Welcome & Safe Space. Open to all from 20+ Author talk and book launch with Vicky Adin Friday, 25 September at 10am. Behind every family tree is a story. Behind every story is a voice that brought it to light. Where Stories Lie Buried is a memoir of a genealogist turned author. After ten novels, Vicky finally felt it was time to tell the story behind the stories.

Regular programmes Monthly & fortnightly Step in, step up, stand out: Tuesday, 1 September at 10am. Register via website: ripple.net.nz/workshops Book Chat: Wednesday, 2 September at 10.30am Parkinson’s Support Group: Monday, 7 September at 10am. Email jo.lynch@parkinson.org.nz Family tree maker: Wednesday, 9 September at 1pm. Booking required, email ftm@hbcgenealogy.org.nz Orewa Orators: Fridays, 11 and 15 September at 12pm Hibiscus Coast Board Games Group: Sundays 13 & 27 September at 12.30pm Orewa Writers and Poets: Saturday, 19 September, at 1pm HBC Embroiders Guild: Sunday, 27 September at 1pm Weekly adult’s programmes ESOL with Lynn Williams: Mondays at 1pm (term time) Conversational French: Mondays at 3pm Craft group: Wednesdays at 9.30am BrainCharge: Wednesdays at 11am (term time) Te timatanga o toku Reo Maori Heaerenga group: Wednesdays at 2pm (term time) Digital seniors: Thursdays at 10am Gentle yoga with Sarah Pearce: Thursdays at 2pm (term time) PTE IELTS with Lynn: Saturdays at 9.30am (term time)

46

Whangaparāoa Special events Dying Matters Awareness specialist panel discussion Wednesday, 9 September from 12.30pm to 2.30pm. Representatives from Hospice, Millwater Law, Hospice and hosted by Marama Winder, life, grief and deathcare guide. Free event. Give it a go: finger knitting Friday, 11 September at 10am. Join Sharon and the Brightside Spinners for a fun session where you’ll learn how to knit with your fingers! Free event. Give it a go: join the band Friday, 11 September at 2pm. As part of Adult Learner’s Week, choose an instrument and play along! Give it a go: learn how to line dance. Saturday, 12 September 2026. Join this beginner-friendly session to learn and practice the moves. Growing microgreens workshop Thursday, 17 September 2026. Join Sarah from Hibiscus Coast Zero Waste who will share ideas on the thoughtful use of food scraps. Free event.

Regular programmes Adult’s programmes The Reading Revolution: Wednesdays, 2pm to 3pm Digital Seniors (65+): Wednesdays, from 10am to 12pm Low Sensory Quiet Hour: Wednesdays, 1.30pm to 2.30pm CAB Chat: Wednesdays, 10am to 12pm BrainCharge: Fridays, 2pm to 3pm Chinese beginner’s English: First and third Fridays at 10am Brightside spinners: Fridays 9.30am to 2pm Hibiscus Coast Writers: Saturday, 13 June at 1pm Children’s programmes Rythym & Beats: Mondays, 10.30am to 11am (3 to 5 yrs) Chess Club: Tuesdays at 3.30pm (10 yrs+) Minecraft Club: Wednesdays, 3.30pm to 4.30pm (all ages) Wriggle & Rhyme: Thursdays, 10.30am to 11am (0 to 2 yrs) Te Reo Story Time: Fridays, 10.30am to 11am Code Club: Fridays at 5pm. Learn how to make computer games (8 to 13 yrs) Beginner’s Mandarin: Saturdays, 1.30pm to 2pm (6 yrs+) Teen Craft Club: Saturdays at 2pm Advanced Mandarin: Sundays, 10am to 10.45am (6 yrs+) Story time: Saturdays at 10.30am and 11am (bilingual) Teen Book Club: Thursday, 11 June at 3.30pm. Share your love of reading with like-minded teens, enjoy some snacks and join in some bookish related activities and crafts. For further events held by community groups please consult the library’s Facebook page.


Ōrewa Library events continued Weekly children’s programmes (children’s area during term time) Rhymetime: Tuesdays at 11am (for 18 months to 3-year-olds) Code Club: Tuesdays at 3.30pm (currently full). We are always looking for new volunteers to help, click on the link: Volunteer - Code Club Aotearoa. Wriggle & Rhyme: Wednesdays at 10 am or 11am (for 0 to 2-year-olds) Storytime: Thursdays at 11am (for 2 to 5-year-olds)

School holiday programme The Secret of Patupaiarehe Island – Tweens Author Talk Saturday, 26 September at 2pm. Come and meet local author Bonnie Shotbolt as she shares excerpts from her new book ‘The Secret of Patupaiarehe Island: The Fearsome Fairy-Folk of Aotearoa’. The book is aimed for readers 9 to 12-year-olds but this session is suitable for the whole whānau. Scrapbooking Grannie’s Recipe: Auckland Heritage Festival Tuesday, 29 September at 2pm. Bring a favourite inter-generational family recipe to scrapbook and find some new ‘tried and true’ recipes to enjoy. We all have

our own family favourite recipes that have been passed down through the generations. It’s time to share them. Wheelies Wednesdays Wednesdays 30 September and 7 October, 9am to 4.45pm. The Hot Wheels vehicles and tracks will be set out all day in the children’s area. Come and experiment with track construction, momentum, gravity, and friction. Drop in any time during the session. Ten Feet Tall - Children’s Confidence Workshop Thursday, 1 October at 2pm. A fun, interactive, games session that develops confidence, self-expression and public speaking skills. Suitable for 5 to 12-year-olds. Bookings recommended, limited walk in spaces. Email: orewalib@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz Friday Movies & Popcorn Friday 2 & 9 October, 2.30pm to 4.30pm. Movies and popcorn in the library. Tākaro Taonga: Traditional Māori games Thursday, 8 October, 2pm to 3.30pm. Drop in to have a go at Tukutuku panels, Tī rākau, Poi, Tākaro card games & Mū Tōrere.

www.fishingdirectnz.co.nz 28 Silverdale St, Silverdale - 09 426 0574 f facebook/fishingdirectnz

OREWA BEACH TIDE TIMES 1 SEPTEMBER TUE

03:45 09:59 15:58 22:20

0.5m 3.0m 0.6m 3.0m

2

04:27 10:42 16:43 23:05

0.5m 3.0m 0.7m 3.0m

3

05:11 11:29 17:32 23:52

0.6m 2.9m 0.8m 2.9m

4

05:59 12:21 18:28

0.6m 2.9m 0.8m

8

03:55 10:11 16:36 22:49

2.7m 0.8m 2.9m 0.8m

9

05:02 11:14 17:36 23:49

2.8m 0.7m 3.0m 0.7m

10

06:04 12:11 18:30

2.9m 0.6m 3.1m

11

00:43 06:59 13:02 19:20

0.6m 3.0m 0.5m 3.1m

12

01:34 07:50 13:49 20:08

0.6m 3.1m 0.5m 3.1m

16

04:25 10:44 16:42 22:59

0.7m 2.9m 0.8m 2.8m

17

05:05 11:27 17:27 23:41

0.8m 2.8m 0.9m 2.7m

18

05:46 12:14 18:16

0.9m 2.7m 1.0m

19

00:26 06:32 13:05 19:10

2.6m 1.0m 2.6m 1.1m

20

SUN

01:16 07:25 14:03 20:09

2.5m 1.1m 2.5m 1.2m

MON

0.8m 2.7m 2.6m 24 05:08 25 05:58 26 00:29 27 06:44 2.8m 12:05 0.8m 11:20 0.9m

01:11 08:27 14:28 20:45

0.7m 2.9m 0.6m 3.0m

MON

28

02:53 09:09 15:09 21:28

0.5m 3.0m 0.6m 3.1m

TUE

TUE

WED

THU

17:39 23:45

2.7m 0.9m

• Rigging

WED

THU

FRI

18:22

2.8m

WED

THU

FRI

SAT

• Tackle

12:47 19:04

0.7m 2.9m

THU

FRI

SAT

SUN

• Bait & Ice

FRI

SAT

5

00:45 06:53 13:19 19:30

2.8m 0.7m 2.8m 0.9m

6

01:43 07:55 14:24 20:37

2.8m 0.8m 2.8m 0.9m

7

02:47 09:03 15:31 21:45

2.7m 0.8m 2.8m 0.9m

13

02:20 08:36 14:34 20:52

0.5m 3.1m 0.5m 3.1m

14

03:03 09:20 15:17 21:35

0.5m 3.1m 0.6m 3.0m

15

03:45 10:02 15:59 22:17

0.6m 3.0m 0.7m 2.9m

21

02:11 08:27 15:03 21:09

2.4m 1.1m 2.5m 1.2m

22 03:11 09:31

2.4m 1.1m 2.6m 1.1m

23 04:12 10:29

2.5m 1.0m 2.6m 1.0m

0.5m 29 03:36 30 04:19 10:36 09:52 3.1m

0.4m 3.1m 0.6m 3.1m

SAT

SUN

15:52 22:11

• Rods & reels

0.5m 3.1m

SUN

MON

TUE

WED

16:01 22:06

16:38 22:57

MON

TUE

WED

16:53 22:57

• Servicing & Repairs 47


The Hibiscus Coast’s premier, luxury, resort-style retirement village for 65+

Spring Open Weekend Fri 25th – Sun 27th September 10am – 3pm Discover what sets our village apart. Take a relaxed stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds, explore our award-winning amenities and step inside the villas and apartments currently available. You’ll also have the chance to meet some of our residents, ask questions, and experience the welcoming community that makes The Botanic so special. With only a limited number of completed homes still available, this is the perfect opportunity to take a closer look and secure your place in a retirement community unlike any other.

The Botanic Hibiscus Coast 17 Small Road, Silverdale C O NTACT M ICH EL L E A ND KATHRYN We’d love to show you around The Botanic’s available properties and awardwinning amenities. Get in touch to arrange a time for a personal one-on-one tour! 0508 268 264 | hello@thebotanic.co.nz | Find out more at thebotanic.co.nz

LIMITED TIME OFFER OF 50% CAPITAL GAIN SHARE* *T&Cs apply.


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
The Coasties Mag - September 2026 by The Coasties Mag - Issuu