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BATTLING LOCAL BUSINESS DELIVERS BLOOMS Two years ago Frans and Suzette van Dorsser, from Blooming Hill Flowers (then Shipherd Nurseries) were featured in Rural Living magazine; their gerbera and rose growing operation, blooming bright. This week HELEN PERRY spoke to the couple about the Covid-19 lockdown and its effect on their business. A gift of flowers is usually guaranteed to give cheer and this week the team from Puni-based Blooming Hill Flowers delivered almost 600 bouquets of beautiful blooms to medical staff at Middlemore Hospital. This act of kindness has been a Covid-19 bright spot but the flipside is the lockdownâ€™s blow to business. Turn to page 2

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ier times. Suzette and Frans van Dorsser in happ

From page 1 Given the official go-ahead, the nursery’s owners, Frans and Suzette van Dorsser were able to show their appreciation of the work being done by hospital staff, however, the warm gesture was also a reflection of hard times kicking in. Unlike some nurseries, the couple haven’t had to destroy their flowers – yet. But, with no income, and their packed glasshouses needing high maintenance, the van Dorsser’s are desperately trying to slow growing and not accrue extra expense in the hope that the floristry industry will recover when the lockdown is lifted. “We’re all talking to each other – who will survive, who won’t survive? We just don’t know,” Frans says. “Our market is purely local so with corporate events, weddings and other major celebrations being cancelled, florists are doing it hard. This has a huge domino effect for smaller

growers, such as ourselves. We don’t supply to supermarkets which import cheap blooms so we are reliant on florists and the like.” However, Frans and Suzette have taken a proactive approach. Having another house on their property, the couple offered it to staff who would be prepared to stay and help during the lockdown. The response, and the outcome, has moved them and helped keep their business going, so far. Registered with MPI, the van Dorsser’s have eight staff living in the house and as a consequence this ‘bubble’ is able to carry out core duties at the nursery. “We’re not considered an essential service but we are permitted to maintain the glasshouses,” Frans explains. “It’s a huge amount of work just to cover the basics so we’ve been really busy. Without

this team we would have been forced to shut our doors. “Nevertheless, it’s tough on everyone. We all go though our ups and downs. In trying to cut costs we’ve reduced heating in the glasshouse which will also help delay flowering. Normally, we pick every day, year round; that’s not happening right now and once growing has been slowed it can be difficult to get plants going again. What’s more, as winter sets in we will have to raise the heating again.” While there is huge uncertainty about the future Frans says the team is hopeful of a Mother’s Day boost. “We hope the lockdown is lifted by then and that florists will pick up on orders – flowers for mum have become something of a Kiwi tradition. We’re hoping it can be maintained this year and give some relief and cheer to everyone but, really, it’s a wait and see game.”

M-BOVIS – OF TAXING TIMES Tax relief for farmers affected by the Mycoplasma bovis outbreak has been welcomed by Federated Farmers. “This affects a relatively small number of farmers but the impact on those farmers was looking to be immense – six figure tax bills at a time of little or no actual income,” Federated Farmers’ vice president, Andrew Hoggard, says. “Revenue Minister, Stuart Nash, and Agriculture Minister, Damien O’Connor, and their officials deserve a great deal of credit for getting onto this in such a timely manner. We thank them sincerely on behalf of some very worried farmers.” The legislative changes will reduce tax requirements for dairy or beef farmers whose animals have tested positive for the devastating cattle disease, subject to certain criteria. Full details regarding eligibility for these tax breaks is accessible via fedfarm.org.nz.

NO FISHING? DUCK’S OFF? Fishing and hunting can be a solo activity but, due to the lockdown, these pastimes are not to be pursued for the time-being. While the lockdown put paid to the stag hunting season (known as the roar), the game bird season may still go ahead once restrictions are eased.

FIELDAYS A NO SHOW’... FOR NOW Soon after Rural Living’s March-April issue hit the streets, organisers of New Zealand’s National Agricultural Fieldays confirmed the 2020 event would be postponed. However, Fieldays Society CEO Peter Nation appears resolute that, for the first time in more than half a century, it will not be cancelled. “The world may be undergoing major challenges in response to Covid-19, but in this changing environment Fieldays will remain, albeit at a later date,” Fieldays Society CEO Peter Nation said. “[We] stand by the Government’s decision to cancel events that draw crowds over 500 in order to stall the spread of Covid-19.” The Society’s decision followed government restrictions limiting the scale and nature of mass gatherings in efforts to check the coronavirus, known specifically as Covid-19.

“We value our loyal stakeholders, including the many exhibitors, suppliers, volunteers, visitors, staff and their extended family, immensely. The whole event is about them,” Mr Nation added. “Their health and safety is of utmost importance to us and we take the Government’s decision seriously.” Mr Nation did not indicate when he expects Fieldays 2020 (originally scheduled for June 10-13) will now take place.

“Unfortunately, being at [Alert] Level 4 means that anglers and hunters aren’t able to do the pursuits that they love,” Fish & Game’s Martin Taylor says. “Anglers and hunters should not undertake activities that expose them and others to higher levels of risk. We are also advised that DOC huts and campsites are closed as they do not meet minimum separation requirements.” Even if the alert level is reduced after the initial lockdown period, Mr Taylor urges people to check Fish & Game’s website for updates regarding any restrictions that remain in place. “It is heart-breaking to not be able to spend time in the outdoors, especially as for many of us this is our main way to de-stress, but we all have our part to play to beat Covid-19,” he adds. “The point of the [lockdown period] is to kill the virus in New Zealand so that life goes back to normal as quickly as possible. Let’s stay home for four weeks then we can get outdoors and back into angling and hunting.” Game bird seasons depend on species and location. If the lockdown continues longer, start dates may be delayed. Up-to-date information is accessible via fishandgame.org.nz.

Puzzle Page Cryptic Puzzle ACROSS

7. What the golfer sings when walking up the fairway? (5,3,4). 8. Attack that, alas, is routed (6). 9. At least four supports (6). 10. What the sea-mouse has to keep clear of? (7). 12. Spot about four the golfer should have put back (5). 15. Having spare time, rested (5). 16. A nut not right in the head: crazy and obsessed (7). 18. Get on outside, a bit shaken (6). 20. Scoff at the backward boy and I get embarrassed (6). 22. Does it make one no end gauche? (4,2,6).

NO. 7951 7

DOWN

1. A bad period in private life (3,5). 2. She’ll have some liver and bacon (4). 3. The hairdresser takes the pen to the table (7). 4. Book the lady’s got about plants (5). 5. The girl has a brainwave about the German (8). 6. Are profligate with money. It’s sad (4). 11. Is it to counteract the hot music? (3-5). 13. Too much of a good thing, perhaps! (8). 14. Yielded good results, but got discharged (4,3). 17. Pry about, and so on, oddly quietly (5). 19. Name from the programme (4). 21. Something to wear in the arena (4).

16 17

Quick Puzzle ACROSS

NO. 001

7. 8. 9. 10. 12. 15. 16. 18. 20. 22.

Sudoku

Ugly (12) Animal (6) Man’s name (6) Follow (7) Mould (5) Coin (5) Break (7) Tranquil (6) Missive (6) Fearful (12)

NO. 7951

DOWN

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 11. 13. 14. 17. 19. 21.

Unsafe (8) Move (4) Relative (7) Burn (5) Rebound (8) Only (4) Scorn (8) Keep (8) Refuge (7) Cut (5) Cheese (4) Fang (4)

HI READERS – WE’RE STAYING IN

TOUCH!

The Covid-19 lockdown isn’t stopping the team from Rural Living and SOUTH magazines from communicating with you all. We’re sending out a weekly digital flipbook to keep you informed and entertained. Read a changing mix of essential services, news, fashion, beauty, kids fun, boredom beaters and more. This is our first – check in with us every Monday – we’re sending to Franklin... with love!

BUBBLE Boredom Beaters SPOTLIGHT ON EASTER EGGS What would Easter be without eggs especially during a lockdown? No much fun on Easter Sunday morning but with supermarkets open during this time, purchasing a few eggs is entirely possible. However, little hands could be kept busy making their own Easter eggs or, come the big day, explore other ways to have an egg-citing time.

DECORATE THEM

PLAY WITH THEM If you have kids, a classic Easter egg hunt in the backyard or throughout the house is a must. For a fun twist, make it a scavenger hunt complete with clues leading to one big prize. If youâ€™re looking for games that people of all ages can enjoy, try having an egg and spoon race or see who can push an egg the furthest along the ground using just the chin or nose. If willing to risk breaking some uncooked eggs have a tossing contest between pairs. Start by standing quite close to each other and gradually extend the distance between a toss from one person to the other. The last to not drop an egg is the winner. If you want to do something a little less physical, you could create a trivia game about eggs and other Easter traditions.

Hard boil a few eggs then create your own outer shell designs with paint and a fine paintbrush -put them in a basket and add them into the mix for a picnic lunch outside. Alternatively, wrap elastic bands around your eggs and dip them in dye to create a graphic look. If you really want to impress, wrap each uncooked egg in a portion of a brightly patterned silk, tie and boil it for 20 minutes to transfer the pattern to the shell.

EAT THEM Finally, donâ€™t forget to eat them. Boiled, fried and whipped into an omelette are some classic ways to prepare eggs. Make a quiche or frittata for a refined Easter brunch or what about pavlova for dessert. Also, if you or someone in your family has a sweet tooth, you can still stock up on commercial Easter eggs and rabbits plus egg-shaped chocolates and candies for the occasion. Happy Easter!

Get off the grass! Comical anecdotes, cute photographs and other bits and bobs sent in by our readers. Keep sending us your briefs, trivia and photos of country life – email to info@ruralliving.co.nz.

WAIT FOR THE BE-HEEP! While the team at Rural Living might have a nose for news, something about a recent story seemed a little fishy. On April 1, Beef + Lamb claimed to have developed the ‘Blamb’, a hybrid animal resulting in meat combining the rich, tenderness of beef with the earthy, gamey flavour of lamb. Unfortunately, news of this cross between sheep and cattle was just a load of... bull. However, who knows? Perhaps boffins might just be able to make this mystical beast a reality, hopefully just in time to celebrate next April Fools’ Day! Well done on this great jape from Beef + Lamb. We hope this won’t result in too many townie journos salivating over the prospect of Blamb sandwiches!

ENJOYING OLDEN TIMES Prior to the Covid-19 lockdown, Pukekohe resident, Mandy Gundersen swapped her secondary school teaching duties to accompany primary school son, Nathan, on an educational class visit to Howick Historical Village. She told Rural Living: “The village, especially the school house and the way lessons were once taught, provided a great experience and really interested our students but dressing up Settler style was also part of the fun. “Wearing garb resembling that of yesteryear was certainly a novel experience but I’m not so sure contemporary Franklin youngsters – or their mums – would be too keen to dress like this every day!”

rsen Mandy and Nathan Gunde

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS QUICK PUZZLE NO. 7951 – SOLUTIONS Across – 7, Unattractive. 8, Ferret. 9, Lionel. 10, Succeed. 12, Shape. 15, Penny. 16, Shatter. 18, Serene. 20, Letter. 22, Apprehensive. Down – 1, Insecure. 2, Stir. 3, Brother. 4, Scald. 5, Ricochet. 6, Mere. 11, Contempt. 13, Preserve 14, Shelter. 17, Sever. 19, Edam. 21, Tusk. CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7951 – SOLUTIONS Across – 7, After the ball. 8, Assail (anag.). 9, Braces. 10, Cat-fish. 12, D-IV-ot. 15, Lean-t. 16, Ha-unt-ed. 18, O-btai-n. 20, Der-I-dE (rev.). 22, Lack of finish. Down – 1, Off stage. 2, (li)Ver-a(nd). 3, Sty-list. 4, Her-b-s. 5, B-Ava-rian. 6, Blue. 11, Fan-dance. 13, Overdose. 14, Paid off. 17, Snoo-p. 19, Bill. 21, Ring.

PM’s Easter Egg Hunt The Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern has pulled a rabbit out of the hat with her understanding of children prompting her to declare the Tooth Fairy and the Easter Bunny as ‘essential services’. In fact, the country’s leader – and mum – went a step further in posting an Easter colouring contest – this gorgeous egg which just begs to be decorated. The PM told children on her Facebook page, “You can draw your own Easter egg, or you can colour in the one that some of my clever friends helped to make. “All you have to do is colour it in or decorate it, and pop it in your window for other kids to find. I’d also love to see your designs. If you email them to primeminister@parliament.govt.nz, or share them on social media using the hashtag #NZEggHunt, I’ll pop a few of them here and on Facebook over the Easter weekend.” So, from South and Rural Living, happy colouring, kids!

COLOUR THERAPY Forget lockdown blues – now’s the time to clear out the wardrobe ahead of winter and plan for colour therapy which looks on the bright side of things.

First up, think pretty in pink – candy hues to rich magenta – from Witchery; they’ll keep you looking and feeling sweet. Flaunting bell sleeves and a tie waist detail, the high neck mini dress in bubblegum pink heralds feminine finesse while pairing Witchery’s new season sherbet pink pattered shirt with matching tiered skirt will provide a hint of Bohemian style. Alternatively, ‘tie’ down the best of pink with wrap-around tie jacket and skirt or opt for the ultra-feminine tie-neck blouse teamed with figure-flattering belted pants.

TAHINI CHOC CHIP COOKIES Chocolate on your mind? Plenty of Kiwis have stocked up on flour in anticipation of going on a baking spree while in lockdown. So, here’s a yum recipe from Melissa Hemsley’s cookbook, Eat Green. The vegan version is just as delicious as the standard version – you decide which you love most.

Makes 16 cookies, takes 25 mins Store these cakey cookies in an airtight container for 5 days. You could warm them briefly in the oven to give them a little crispening boost. The dough freezes well so double up and save half for a rainy day. Just defrost, then slice into portions before putting in the oven.

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • •

2 eggs 2 tsp baking powder 4 tbsp maple syrup 2 tsp vanilla extract 150g light tahini 110g smooth nut butter 100g good-quality dark chocolate, broken up into squares, or chips • 30g black and/or white sesame seeds • A pinch of sea salt

METHOD Preheat the oven to fan 170°C/ gas mark 5. Line a large baking tray with reusable baking paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs then mix in the baking powder, maple syrup and vanilla extract. Add the tahini and nut butter and mix together until very well combined. Roughly chop the chocolate (if not using chips) and fold through the batter along

Flexi Swap For vegans, replace the 2 eggs with 1 large mashed ripe banana. You can also swap the nut butter for the same amount of a seed butter or tahini for a nut-free alternative.

with the sesame seeds.

each one) until the cookies are just set. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with a little sea salt and allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Measure out 16 balls of the cookie batter, roughly 1 tablespoon each, and bake for 10–15 minutes on the lined baking tray (making sure to leave a little room between

KEEP CALM

! N O S E M GA

Laura Bradley, Sarah Higgens

Many upcoming large events may have been postponed or cancelled but, held just days before Government restrictions on events were announced, New Zealand’s annual Rural Games went ahead as planned. “2020 is going to be a tough year for many. I hope the Games provided welcome relief as we continue to tackle drought and as we start to tackle Covid-19,” Rural Games Trust Chair Margaret Kouvelis, said.

• • •

“Together, we the rural communities of Aotearoa, will keep the country running by putting food on the shelves.

• •

“Our forebears went through a lot worse, and we all need to stay strong, keep our chins up and keep an eye on our neighbours.”

• •

Championship (teams) Jack Jordan – Wood Chopping Championship (individuals) Jack Fagan – Men’s Speed Shearing Championship Laura Bradley – Women’s Speed Shearing Championship Tony Bouskill – Speed Fencing Championship Whanganui – Sheep Dog Trial Challenge Kieran Fowler – Men’s Gumboot Throwing and Cow Pat Throw Kristin Churchward – Women’s Gumboot Throwing Adam Miller – Southern Hemisphere Highlander Championship Dylan Ferguson – Gearing Up Championships

Held in mid-March, the games attracted a crowd of more than 30,000 to watch athletes put their skills to the test across a wide range of disciplines.

•

Featuring contests ranging from egg roulette and gumboot throwing to such rural mainstays as fencing, speed shearing, dog trials, harness racing, timbersports, the games again yielded a diverse range of winners, including:

And, Rural Living would like to extend special congratulations to Pukekohe’s Jay Abernathy who claimed second place in the harness racing Gearing Up Championships.

• New Zealand – Wood Chopping

Tony Bouskill

•

A complete list of winners is accessible via ruralgames.co.nz.

Seb Bainbridge

TOAST OF COUNTRY... AND TOWN Held the evening before the games, the 2020 Norwood NZ Rural Sports Awards handed plaudits to some of the country’s top athletes in Palmerston North. Convenor of the New Zealand Rural Sports Awards Judging Panel, Nathan Twaddle, says the awards celebrate traditional sports and the people who keep events running year-in and year-out in the towns and settlements across New Zealand. “We had a fantastic line-up of finalists for each category,” judging panel convener and former Olympic rower, Nathan Twaddle, says. “Our 2020 winners have proven themselves on the field of their rural sport or in the committee room organising rural sporting events around New Zealand.” The pride of Matamata stood head and shoulders above other finalists (in some cases quite literally!) as former Silverferns captain, Casey Kopua was named Outstanding Sportsperson from a Rural Background. The awards’ honour roll also featured: • Champion shearer, Allan Oldfield – Rural Sportsman of the Year • Dog trial champion, Steph Tweed – Rural Sportswoman of the Year • Harness racing driver, Sarah O’Reilly – Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year • Harness racing driver, Ricky May – Lifetime Legacy • Journalist, Doug Laing – Contribution to Rural Sport