Franklin Times April 10, 2026

Burger truck smashes competition

„ By HELENA O’NEILL

AFranklin food truck has taken out Burger Nation’s best burger title.

The Classic Smashie Double burger from Smashies in Pukekohe was crowned the supreme winner of Burger Nation 2026, beating out more than 300 other competitors in a month-long celebration that saw Kiwis submit more than 7,000 scores online for their favourite burgers in New Zealand.

Smashies, a food truck, took out the supreme title with a burger that leans into simplicity and execution, Burger Nation says.

“Quality beef, balance and consistency created a crowd-pleaser of a burger that, combined with a loyal local following, meant their burger won with more than 700 votes.” Dave and Rachel Tomlinson own Smashies and employ four other staff to help run the burger truck

as it travels around Franklin most evenings.

Their regular spots are in Pukekohe (Tuesdays), Waiuku (Wednesdays), Patumahoe (Thursdays), and Tuakau (Fridays) from 4pm to 8pm. On Saturday, April 11 they will also be in Onewhero.

“We’re incredibly grateful for all the support from the community. It’s all very humbling. It’s been nice to see a simple burger being recognised – where the meat is the star of the show,” Dave

says. The patties are 100 per cent beef, and the burgers feature a secret special sauce with 14 ingredients only known by the couple themselves. The buns are baked fresh each morning at a Pukekohe bakery, and the meat is sourced locally.

The couple began the burger business just 18 months ago, with Dave quitting his job six months ago to work full-time on the business. “The award has helped us verify that we are doing

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the right thing; it’s a real win for us. We’re really excited to see what the future brings.”

The winners were named in four categories: meat, chicken, plant, and seafood. They are: Smashies, Auckland (supreme and meat category winner), The Offering, Wairarapa (Tegel chicken category winner), Urbanaut/ Burgernaut, Auckland (plant category winner) and Tipsy Oyster, Northland (seafood category winner).

Public votes for burgers were up 20 per cent on last year’s competition. Burger Nation co-founder Nick Brown says this year’s results highlight the strength of local hospitality and the communities that support their neighbourhood eateries.

“Seeing a food truck take out the top spot again really shows the power of being small but mighty. These are businesses that rely on their locals, and it’s those communities getting in behind them that make the difference.”

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There have been many remarkable comebacks in media alone – Oprah Winfrey sunk as a news anchor, considered unsuitable for TV before rising to become, well, Oprah, and aspiring newspaper cartoonist Walt Disney was written off as lacking creativity before he discovered that a mouse was his muse.

The Franklin Times has also made quite the comeback. Originally founded more than 100 years ago, it folded in 1971. Since the upheavals of 2020, Franklin lost another local newspaper and two community magazines, including Times Media’s Rural Living

However, the Times’ new owner has ensured that Franklin would not become a ‘news desert’ by re-launching this publication early last year after a successful relaunch of Times Media’s

East Auckland paper. Comebacks happen, sometimes with the help of a little luck, but mostly due to determination, good management and hard work.

In my last editor’s ramble in Rural Living, written at a time when more mastheads were sinking than during the Battle of Trafalgar, I commented about how vital it is for communities to back local media and for local media to back communities – some haven’t, this one has.

Coming back has been a common theme for Times staff members too – during the company’s more than 50-year history, many have left to pursue other opportunities only to return to the fold. After a couple of years away, I’ve re-joined for (effectively) a third time – I interned with the Times in 2001, returning in 2011 and, after two years scribbling

for various publications, I’m now pleased to be back again.

However, the ‘new Times’ has also clearly benefited from a healthy dose of new blood too. Together, the team has done a remarkable job.

In particular, Helena O’Neill has stepped up to the mark as Franklin Times’ first editor. In her From the Editor column (March 27), she advised that the Times are changing, but they won’t need to change too much as Helena will continue to work on the publication – well, she better or I’m sunk!

Also, the principles of local media remain the same – to inform and advocate for our community. With the support of readers and advertisers, it’s clear the ‘new Times’ is already on a roll.

Jon Rawlinson

Four candidates to vie for Franklin by-election

Franklin Local Board’s by-election has drawn four contenders for its one vacant seat in the Wairoa subdivision. Auckland Council says the candidates are Claire Alder (Team Franklin), Chris Caldwell and Nick Corlett (no affiliation), and Tom Van Der Laan (independent).

The by-election was triggered following the resignation of founding Franklin Local Board member Mal-

colm Bell in March. Chair Alan Cole said that over his 12 years of service, Bell had “consistently and positively contributed to the Franklin Local Board and has been a dedicated advocate for Wairoa subdivision communities.” Dene Green previously announced his intention to stand in the by-election, following his unsuccessful Wairoa subdivision candidacy last year, but

has opted to instead contest the Papakura electorate seat in this year’s general election.

The Wairoa subdivision includes the communities of Whitford, Brookby, parts of Alfriston, Beachlands, Maraetai, Clevedon, Ardmore, Hunua (including Ponga Road), Kawakawa Bay, Orere Point, Paparimu, Ararimu, parts of Ramarama, Drury South, and parts of Bombay.

Eligible voters in the

Wairoa Subdivision can expect to receive voting papers in their letterboxes from May 11. Voting opens on May 11 and closes at midday on Wednesday, June 10. Candidate profiles will be available closer to the voting opening, so electors can learn more about candidates and their policies. For more information about voting in this by-election, visit voteauckland.co.nz.

021 0254 5413 info@shedliving.co.nz www.shedliving.co.nz

Aka Aka farmer Grand Final bound?

„ By JON RAWLINSON

Pukekohe’s Justin Ruygrok will be hoping his luck is sweeter the second time around as he aims to claim the 2026 Young Farmer of the Year title.

Although experience from last year’s Northern Regionals will be of some benefit, there are no guarantees in this fiercely fought contest.

“Having competed before, I think I can be a little better prepared, but you never know what’s going to get put in front of you – there’s just such a wide range of things that can be covered from within the agriculture industry,” he says.

“I’m up against seven other skilled people so anything can happen, but as long as I stay calm and collected, I stand a good chance.”

Last year, the region

als were held in Helensville, but this time the Aka Aka sharemilker will be competing much closer to home, at Pukekohe Showgrounds.

While this won’t provide him with an inside track, it will ensure that Ruygrok (who is the only Franklin Young Farmer to reach regionals this year) has a sizeable, and vocal, cheering section.

“It doesn’t mean I’ll have any home-ground advantage, but I’m going to have a lot more support, that’s for sure,” he says. “Franklin Young Farmers is organising [regionals] this time so most of them will be busy, but the crowd should be on

To be held this Saturday, April 11, the contest features fast-paced, head-to-head challenges as finalists

primary industries.

The competition then concludes with a crowd favourite, a brain-teasing buzzer quiz on Saturday evening.

All going well, Ruygrok will then be heading to New Plymouth (July 2–4 ) for the Grand Final.

“I’d be rapt to win, for sure, but it’d be awesome just to make it to the final again

The competition also helps showcase opportunities in the primary industries to future farmers, Ruygrok adds. “The Junior Young Farmer of the Year and the Agri Kids events, which are on at the same time, give kids the chance to experience what farming can be like.

“If I was a young fella watching those, I think I’d be on board with them too

Celebrating 80 years of bus service

„ By HELENA O’NEILL

This year, a small Pukekohe school is celebrating a special milestone — 80 years of running its very own school bus.

The Pukekohe East School Bus began in 1946, when a group of parents converted a Ford V8 van to carry 16 children. The society says it was the first cooperatively owned school bus in New Zealand.

Pukekohe East School Bus Society chairperson Karla Shearer says the service receives zero funding from the Ministry of Education.

When government funding was withdrawn in 2007, a small group of determined parents, led by Kristen Stening, Donna Lovell, and Marlene Dyer, worked tirelessly to raise community funding to keep the bus service run-

ning year after year.

“Pukekohe East School’s bus service survives to this day, 100 per cent community funded.”

It’s that determination from the school’s community that led to the creation of the bus service.

As early as 1941 a meeting was held in the school-

house ‘to consider engaging a school bus to convey children from the North End’. However, it was four years later and a group of concerned parents from the South End who finally forced the issue. They considered the main road from Morgan’s corner to the Pukekohe East Hall had become too danger-

ous for their small children to walk to school. So, they ‘went on strike’ keeping their children home for a day and threatening to send them to Harrisville School if a bus service was not provided. At a school meeting in 1945 it was resolved to contract Josh Morgan to transport eight children in his vehicle at a small cost to their parents with school committee funds making up the deficit.

It was intended as a temporary measure, and an approach was made to the Education Board to provide a bus service. The school’s application was denied, however, because not enough

children lived more than two miles from the school. The only solution was for the community to provide its own bus, leading to the creation of the Pukekohe East Bus Society in 1946.

A committee of householders was elected to write the constitution, and a Ford V8 van was purchased and altered to carry 16 children.

The first bus was driven by the head teacher, Alan Shepherd. It was painted red and affectionately known as the ‘Red Terror’. Passenger numbers increased, requiring the Red Terror to make two trips to the North End each day to transport all chil-

dren. Over the years, there would be another five buses until the existing Hino bus was purchased in 2024.

These days, Stuart Craig has been driving the bus since 2021.

“It takes about 30 to 35 minutes to do the run, and with 36 kids on the roll currently, it’s about a quarter of the school roll that uses the bus.” Deputy chairperson Angely Cullern says the society will host a musical bingo for its 80th anniversary fundraiser on May 23, with tickets on sale from April 10.

“We are still looking for event sponsors and donations for the auction/raffle

at the event - please contact us admin@pukekoheeastschoolbus.org. We also have some advertising spots left on the bus for logos on the sides, with one more spot in the back.” Cullern says the society would love to hear from anyone who was involved with the school bus and the bus society for the past 80 years.

“We would love to thank them for all their involvement and support over the years, along with all the teachers and school staff (past and present) and the previous bus society members for all their mahi over the years.”

The MediMap hack – three more lessons for businesses

 By SHIV NARAYAN, founder of ClearEdge

Two breaches, less than three months apart. Thousands of New Zealanders wonder who has their most sensitive data and what was done with it.

Earlier this year I wrote about the Manage My Health hack and what it meant for local businesses. Then in late February, MediMap, used across aged care, hospices and disability services, was breached. This time data was not just stolen. Records were altered. Some patients were listed as deceased. Care staff doubled their numbers to complete medication rounds safely.

Two incidents in quick succession is not bad luck. It is a pattern. Three more lessons for East Auckland businesses:

1. Your vendor’s problem is your problem

In both breaches, the government’s position was identical: the platform is solely responsible for its own security. That sounds reassuring until you realise your vendors would say the same if breached tomorrow. Your accounting software. Your payroll tool. Your customer database. Every software tool is a door into your business. Start with three questions to your key vendors: do you use two-factor authentication? Is data encrypted at rest? When was your last independent security audit? If they cannot answer all three, that tells you something.

2. When the system goes down, what is your plan B?

When MediMap went offline, facilities reverted to paper. Rounds that took minutes stretched to hours. Errors multiplied. Most businesses are not running medication rounds, but the question is the same: what if your core system goes dark for 48 hours? If you cannot answer quickly, you have an assumption, not a plan.

3. The rules are changing

The new Cyber Security Strategy proposes mandatory obligations and director-level personal liability for serious breaches. Consultation closes 19 April 2026.

Not aimed at SMEs today, but the direction is clear. Businesses that get ahead will find it becomes a point of trust. Those that wait will pay more, in more ways than one. The question is no longer whether Kiwi businesses are targets. It is whether yours is ready.

Will water works work?

The ink is now dry on a new agreement that carries a lot of water including a rise in costs for Frankliners in the Waikato District Council (WDC) region.

Fixed drinking water and wastewater charges will increase to approximately $142 per year. However this is less than half of a previously projected rate of $364 for the 2026/27 rating year, WDC mayor Aksel Bech confirms. “No increase is welcome, but this is a meaningful saving for our communities with more efficiencies gained over time.” Savings will be achieved thanks to a new council-controlled organisation, IAWAI, which translates as Flowing Waters.

Developed in partnership with Hamilton City Council and Waikato Tainui, IAWAI will deliver water and wastewater services to more than 220,000 residents from July 1.

WDC’s water and wastewater infrastructure – treatment plants, reservoirs, pumps stations, pipes, staff, resources and more – will

now be under the auspices of IAWAI.

“This agreement marks the beginning of a new era for how drinking water and wastewater services will be delivered in the region and of the benefits that working together will bring to the communities we serve,” Bech says.

“By planning water infrastructure across the wider north Waikarto region, we can deliver major projects more efficiently and reduce the pressure on ratepayers compared with councils trying to do this alone.”

During the next decade, IAWAI is expected to invest more than $3 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

The organisation will also be tasked with helping to protect the Waikato River.

“The awa (water) is central to the wellbeing of our communities,” Bech adds. “As a shareholding council in IAWAI, this ensures future investment in water infrastructure also supports the long-term health of the Waikato River.”

Mail cuts – no last post for Patumahoe?

„ By JON RAWLINSON

Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night (nor a controversial deed of understanding) will stay couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds… in Patumahoe at least.

While cuts to postal services in Paerata, Clarks Beach and Takanini will still go ahead (from June) Patumahoe Four Square has been granted a reprieve.

Port Waikato MP Andrew Bayly labelled NZ Post’s plans to cease postal services in Franklin as “annoying and disruptive”. He is now pleased that the mailman will still deliver to some degree.

“Following a request from the store owners and feedback from the community, NZ Post has decided to retain postal services at the Four Square,” he says. “[This is] good news for residents of Patumahoe.”

As previously reported in

Franklin Times, both Bayly and Franklin Ward Councillor Andy Baker have been outspoken about the need for services in the region to be retained. NZ Post is set to remove services from more than 140 urban retail partner stores – while retaining a network of more than 500 outlets – in efforts to become more financially viable.

Recently, Patumahoe was named by NZ Post as one of a handful of sites nationwide that will retain some or all services, a spokesperson confirmed.

“We received requests from 26 stores to review the decision we had made. In each case, we took another look at our decision by carefully considering all feedback and information provided against our established criteria – including accessibility of our services, local customer use, and how travel times work in reality for the community. “In a small num-

ber of cases [including Patumahoe], new information provided during the review materially changed the store’s position and we have been able to offer retaining some or all NZ Post services.

“We understand how important these decisions are for local communities and appreciate the constructive discussions we have had with our retail partners and communities through this process.”

The cuts stem from The Postal Deed of Understanding between NZ Post and the government that requires the state-owned enterprise (SOE) to become ‘financially

self-funding.’ It comes as a response to huge declines in mail volumes while costs have remained high, making parts of the old network unsustainable. Despite this, NZ Post posted a half-year net profit of $33 million in February. The organisation’s chief executive, David Walsh, says this reflects continued momentum toward commercial sustainability.

“This result was achieved despite the backdrop of a slow economy, with revenue improving by 3.7 per cent. Alongside this, ongoing tight cost control and efficiencies from our investment in automation saw total operating costs reduced by 1.2 per cent,” he says.

“NZ Post is on target to return a modest [full year] profit, noting that the seasonal nature of revenues and volumes sees the group earnings profile weighted toward the first half of the financial year.”

Iranian-born artist shares skills in Franklin

„ By KERRY LEE

While others make war, sculptress Sha Ganjali from the Ara Design Studio will be making art, teaching at Waiuku’s Stable Light Gallery on April 11.

Ganjali fell in love with clay aged 10 while living in Tehran, Iran. She has a background in interior design but began exploring other artforms and eventually found herself working with clay.

She describes her art as both intuitive and unfiltered. Her work is made by hand and focuses on form and texture, with each piece intended to evoke emotion.

“My work is driven by emotion in the moment,” she explains. “Each piece

becomes a type of portrait of what I am experiencing at the time. My emotional state shapes everything, from how I handle the clay, how much risk I take, how patient I am.”

Ganjali works mostly with my hands, which she says are her most important tools. The resulting forms that emerge are organic and unplanned.

“I don’t sketch or prepare beforehand. I rarely know what I am making, size, or even the final colour or texture at first. It is a very intuitive process. I respond to how I feel, and the clay responds in return. Every piece carries a story because it comes from something real, something lived.”

While she has explored other mediums in the past, Ganjali has regularly

returned to clay as her preferred medium.

“There is a depth to it, a kind of connection that feels instinctive,” she says. “It is the only medium where I feel like I can fully express myself.”

Through her workshops, Ganjali has become fond of teaching.

“Watching people go through their own process with clay, often discovering something they did not expect, is quite special,” she says. “I have had people continue after the workshops, sending me photos of their work and asking questions,

which is very humbling. If I can introduce people to that kind of grounding experience, even in a small way, then it feels worthwhile.”

While she is busy running workshops, Ganjali is also seeking a permanent studio location.

“I would love to have a

dedicated space where more people can be introduced to working with clay and experience it for themselves,” she adds.

Ganjali will be sharing her skills during a free sculpting workshop on April 11, 10am–1pm, at the Stable Light Gallery.

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Stunning summer for cricket star

South African cricketer Berno de Klerk has had a phenomenal season for the Pukekohe Metro Cricket Club and is working on a plan to return next season.

An all-rounder, De Klerk has been the standout player in all forms of cricket across the region this summer. He helped Pukekohe

Metro win the W.H Taylor Shield two-day competition as well as leading the club to the final of the Regional OneDay competition, which also includes teams from Waikato Valley.

Along the way, he has scored five premier centuries and one for the premier reserves team.

“I loved every moment of this summer so far, not just on the field but off the field as well,” De Klerk told the Franklin Times

“The guys I play with are so nice and always there to have fun.

The cricket has been very enjoyable, and the pitches here in New Zealand are different to what I am used to, so it is also a good way to test myself.”

Klerk says.

“I come from a small town called Welkom in South Africa but went to school in Potchofstroom.

“I always loved cricket and Potchofstroom was sort of a place where my cricket would go forward.”

The 19-year-old landed in Pukekohe courtesy of a connection with the club’s highest profile player – new Black Cap national representative Katene Clarke.

“I played a season in the Netherlands where I met Katene, and he put me in touch with the club, and it just went on from there,” De

De Klerk may have found a new home in Pukekohe as he’s already shown interest in returning next season and has higher honours in mind.

“Yes, I would love to come back to New Zealand,” De Klerk says.

“I definitely want to be playing for Counties Manukau and Northern Districts, and that will be the goal I will be working hard for.”

Farming feathered friends

„ By KERRY LEE

When people say they love chicken, they usually mean dinner, but to Jessica Hoskins, they are a wonderful bird.

Jessica Hoskins and her husband, Bradley, look after a wide range of animals, including sheep, cows,

discovering a large chicken coop and covered run when they bought West Winds in 2023.

The couple started with five rescue hens and later decided to buy some oneday-old chicks. Eventually, they found themselves with over 50 chickens.

make the perfect breeding and show rooster.

Bradley developed a fondness for the Rhode Island Red, a heavy breed with “stunning dark red feathering.” This year, the couple have hatched 40 of them, with more in their incubator.

After joining some poultry pages on Facebook and following the Auckland Poultry and Pigeon Association, they learned about the different chicken breeds in New Zealand.

They got in touch with a breeder in Ramarama, who helped them get started with the breed Standard Lace Barnevelder.

Later, the couple was gifted a 10-month-old purebred Rhode Island Red rooster called Roger and were later told by other breeders that he would

The couple also has other breeds, such as the Chinese Silkie and the Barred Plymouth Rock.

Many people buy pullets (point-of-lay hens), which are ideal for beginners and are used as pets or for their eggs; others may buy them to introduce new bloodlines to their own breeding programs.

Not all roosters get to breed, and those not of a high enough quality end up as Jessica says on the “dinner plate”.

“The good news is that most of our roosters, 90 per cent of the time, find wonderful new homes, and we have taken in a few rescue

Jessica and Bradley with their chickens, including their exotic breeds. Photos supplied

roosters, which free range around the farm. We even have retired hens and roosters that will live out the rest of their lives here on the farm with us.”

Collins applauded as cabinet reshuffled

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced a refreshed ministerial line-up ahead of this year’s general election. The PM thanked Papakura MP, Judith Collins, for her lengthy service to the National Party.

“Judith was first elected in 2002 and since then, has held numerous different ministerial portfolios and served as Leader of the Opposition,” Luxon says.

“This term, she’s delivered the Defence Capability Plan, advanced New Zealand’s space industry and modernised of our public service.

“I acknowledge the public service of Judith Collins and Shane Reti who, between them, have dedicated almost 40 years to representing their communities in Parliament.”

Whangarei MP Reti has served as Deputy Leader of the Opposition and delivered key reforms, Luxon says.

“I would also like to acknowledge the staff who have supported Judith and Shane throughout their time here. New Zealand is better for Judith and Shane deciding to enter public service and I am grateful to count them both as friends.

“On behalf of the Government and the National Party, I wish them all the best for their futures outside Parliament.” While some are stepping down, others are stepping up.

“New Zealanders are facing economic challenges brought on by conflict in the Middle East and its effect on fuel supply across the world,” Luxon says.

“Having a strong ministerial team with real-world experience to deliver our response is crucial. Today’s reshuffle reflects that and brings in new talent.”

Chris Penk joins the cabinet, picking up the Defence, GCSB and NZSIS, and Space portfolios.

“Chris’s time in the New Zealand Defence Force leaves him well placed to lead the

work our government has done in raising the status and capability of our armed forces.” Luxon says Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds joins Cabinet with responsibility for Tertiary Education and Science, Innovation and Technology.

“Penny has successfully delivered reforms to the vocational education sector, also from outside Cabinet, and will bring her extensive governance experience to her new portfolios.

“The past few weeks have underlined how important energy security is and as such I will be elevating the Energy portfolio to senior minister Simeon Brown.

“Chris Bishop becomes Attorney-General and Paul Goldsmith takes responsibility for the Public Service and Digitising Government, and Pacific Peoples portfolios.

“Louise Upston will become Leader of the House and Simon Watts will be Minister for Auckland.”

Selwyn MP Nicola Grigg becomes Minister for the Environment and Coromandel MP Scott Simpson becomes Minister of Statistics and Deputy Leader of the House. “Joining as a Minister outside Cabinet, Cameron Brewer becomes Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs and Small Business and Manufacturing, and Associate Minister of Immigration,” Luxon says.

“Mike Butterick becomes Minister for Land Information and Associate Minister of Agriculture.”

The changes come into effect on Tuesday, April 7.

Pukekohe Cemetery memorial

We are now seeking your feedback on the Pukekohe Cemetery memorial design –open until April 29.

Within Pukekohe Cemetery are unmarked graves of around 200 people, many of them are Māori babies and children. The memorial project aims to finally acknowledge and honour their resting place, funded by Auckland Council’s regional Māori Outcomes Fund.

The proposed design concept, led by Kohae Limited - designers who specialise in culturally responsive design, has been informed through community engagement, site investigations and survey work. The design has been approved by the Pukekohe Cemetery Committee, represented by Pukekohe Māori community and Frank-

lin Local Board, who provide governance and decision-making for the project. The concept is now ready for whānau and community feedback before it is finalised.

I believe it’s a beautiful design that gives the burials the respect and remembrance they deserve, without disturbing existing burial areas, while enhancing the cultural and environmental aspects of the cemetery.

The project reflects a strong, collaborative partnership aims to acknowledge and honour our commitment to Māori.

We warmly encourage whānau and community members to share their thoughts, as your feedback will help shape a memorial that truly reflects inclusivity, community values and

respect.

Have your say from Wednesday until April 29 by visiting: akhaveyoursay. aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/ pukekohecemeterymemorial

In person events are also being held:

• Sunday, April 12 from 1pm to 3pm, Ngā Hau E Whaa Marae o Pukekohe.

88 Beatty Road, Pukekohe.

• Wednesday, April 15 from 6pm to 8pm upstairs at Franklin: The Centre, 12 Massey Ave, Pukekohe.

• Online on Wednesday, April 22 from 8pm to 9pm, registration details to follow.

FRANKLIN

LOCAL BOARD WAIROA SUBDIVISION BY-ELECTION

Nominations for candidates to stand in the Franklin Local Board Wairoa subdivision

by-election have now closed. Thank you to those who have put themselves forward to represent our community.

Voting opens May 11 and closes midday, June 10. If you are enrolled to vote, keep an eye out for voting papers which are being delivered by mail. Everything there is to know about voting in Franklin’s by-election can be found at: voteauckland.co.nz.

Sir Barry made Manukau proud

OBITUARY: Sir Barry Curtis, February 27, 1939, to March 30, 2026.

„ By PJ TAYLOR

In the end, he didn’t want to go, but knew it was time, finishing 24 consecutive years as Mayor of Manukau City in 2007.

At the time, it was the record-holding run as New Zealand’s longest-serving local government mayor, only to eventually be overtaken by his old mate Sir Tim Shadbolt in Invercargill.

With the news just settling in of Sir Tim’s passing, word came last week that Sir Barry Curtis, who lived most of his life on the Bucklands Beach Peninsula, had died. He’d turned 87 in late February.

From 1983 to 2007, Sir

A service of remembrance for Sir Barry Curtis is at the Pacific Events Centre, the Due Drop Events Centre, a central Manukau venue Sir Barry had a leading role in creating in the early 2000s, on Friday, April 10, at 11am.

Barry was Manukau in every way, its friendly face and charming character, leading the city through its greatest transformation period of growth and development.

“It’s very hard to let go,” Sir Barry, then 68, told this writer and the Times when announcing his retirement as mayor in mid-August 2007.

“It’s something I’ve been committed to since the last election [2004].”

Sir Barry finished in local government with an impressive record having been successful in all 13 elections he stood in from 1968. Five terms as a councillor, eight as mayor, and there were terms on the old Auckland Regional Authority (the ARA) representing Manukau in the 1970s.

When he won the mayoral chains in 1983, the highly qualified town planner was ready after serving a lengthy apprenticeship as a councillor under one his east Auckland mentors, former Manukau Mayor the late Sir Lloyd Elsmore.

“At that time [1983], people were disrespectful,” Sir

Barry said in 2007. “They wanted to heap their noxious industries on Manukau.

“They wanted to dump their waste in the Manukau Harbour. They referred to us as those people out there in south Auckland.

“All it did was harden my attitude, making me determined to change the image that was attached to us.”

By the time he left office, Sir Barry said: “I see Manu-

kau today as New Zealand’s most progressive unit of local government. It’s a title it can wear proudly.

“When you look at the socioeconomic, environmental and cultural outcomes we have achieved, and that embraces the whole spectrum, I think we can be very proud.”

Sir Barry is remembered as a formidable public speaker and descriptive storyteller, often painting a picture in the mind of the setting and time he was talking of, and his speeches always contained greetings in all the languages of the Pacific representing the people of Manukau.

There was an air of regalia about Sir Barry, and he enjoyed being addressed as that, and he was a proud, dignified and knowledgeable leader, but there was the down-to-earth man who could mix with anyone and knew the history and connections of countless Manukau people and their families, making people feel at ease and of interest in his company.

Better options for retirement, aged care

I recently attended the opening of Oceania’s Franklin Village in Pukekohe.

It was another reminder of how much growth and development is happening around the Franklin area –and how important it is to have as many options as possible for how we live as we age. When we discuss aging, it almost always leads to health care, with aged care a direct responsibility of mine as minister, as well as support for older people as Minister for Seniors. In this space, I am proud to be an MP with New Zealand First.

New Zealand First prioritised aged care by ensuring it was part of our coali-

tion agreement, so that real change is achieved. This included an agreement with a select committee inquiry into aged care, with its recommendations now feeding into a Ministerial Advisory Group on aged care that will provide specific recommendations for change.

I have written previously about the importance of delivering a health system that supports us all to age well and a funding model that supports this system. Simply put, this is about the right care at the right time and in the right place.

What I have learned as I’ve travelled New Zealand and visited care homes, hos-

pitals and providers is that we have amazing people, dedicated and skilled, delivering quality care. We also have first-class facilities, like Franklin Village, being built in some areas.

Overall, though, the existing system is outdated and does not support the delivery of the range of services people need throughout the country.

We need real change. New Zealand First has committed to an enduring, bipartisan approach to aged care, and from what I have seen and heard, I know we need a system that provides care that is easier for people to access and that supports the providers of these services to invest and grow capacity.

Like many parts of New Zealand, Franklin has experienced significant growth, but people need access to a range of services and care options to be able to remain living in the community they know.

Aging in the place we know is not solely reliant on health services. It includes

Minister for Seniors Casey Costello

housing options, social connections, secure and safe communities, and access to amenities and infrastructure.

We need to ensure no community is left withering on the vine.

This means services are expanded, economic investment and development are made easier, and local voices are not lost when decisions are made.

Whether it is something as common sense as simplifying the process to build subsidiary dwellings or fast track legislation to support development, New Zealand First continues to deliver practical outcomes.

Support must be targeted, temporary, and also timely

We cannot control global oil prices, and we cannot control conflict in the Middle East.

What we can control is how we respond – and it’s our responsibility as a government to do so in a careful, deliberate, and measured way. That’s why every decision we’re making is guided by a clear principle – support must be targeted, temporary, and timely.

It would be easy to turn on the firehose and splash cash around, but doing so would only drive inflation higher and leave the very households we’re trying to help worse off for years to come. Responsible Government means helping now without creating bigger problems

later. To ease the pressure of rising fuel costs, 143,000 families are receiving targeted fuel support for low- to middle-income working parents with a further $50 boost per week for up to a year.

From April 1, further increased payments kicked in for 1.5 million New Zealanders. That includes Superannuitants, veterans, students, main beneficiaries, and people who receive additional assistance despite not being on a benefit.

This is practical help aimed squarely at the costof-living challenges many are experiencing.

Home and community support workers will also receive a temporary mile-

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon

age rate increase by 30 per cent, from 63.5 cents to 82.5 cents per kilometre, to help ease the pressure of rising fuel costs. This increase will remain in place for up to 12 months, or until the price of 91 octane petrol falls below

$3 per litre for four consecutive weeks.

Our focus is on dealing with the impacts of the conflict on New Zealanders and ensuring we minimise that as much as possible.

That means ensuring we maintain the fuel we need to keep the economy moving through our National Fuel Plan, and providing targeted, timely and temporary support for people most under pressure from rising fuel costs. The months ahead may be unpredictable, but New Zealanders can be reassured this Government has a plan and is acting – carefully and decisively – to support people through and protect New Zealand’s future.

Trees can cause power cuts in storms

How close are your trees?

Trees and vegetation growing too close to power lines are a key cause of unplanned power outages. That’s why the Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations are important. They set out what property owners and companies like Counties Energy are obligated to do to keep everyone safe.

Here’s what you need to know about your responsibilities.

Maintaining a safe distance

In October 2024, the Regulations were updated to increase the minimum safe distances between trees and power lines, and a new ‘clear to the sky’ requirement for some trees. There is a grace period relating to these until 16 October 2026.

If your trees are growing within the Cut-Back or Notice Zone (Tree A), you may get a legal notice saying your trees must be trimmed soon because they’re getting too close to power equipment.

Should they reach the Growth Limit Zone (Tree B), you will get a legal notice requiring them to be trimmed. Visit our website at countiesenergy.co.nz/service-providers for a list of authorised contractors.

Choosing to ignore a Cut or Trim notice and failing to comply with it is an offence under the Tree Regulations and can result in a fine of up to $10,000 and up to $500 per day/part day if the offence continues. Also, if our lines are damaged because you failed to comply with the Tree Regulations, you will be liable for the cost of repairs.

Keep safe, keep clear, keep our power supply flowing.

Clear to Sky applies for all lines 33 kV or greater, plus certain high-risk lines at 11 or 22 kV.

The regulations

Under the Regulations, landowners are legally obliged to keep trees on their property from encroaching on the Notice Zone of a power line.

Counties Energy will carry out the ‘first cut’ of a tree near network power lines for free, then the owner is responsible and liable for the costs of any future maintenance of the tree to ensure it does not encroach on the Notice Zone. Tree owners may face penalties if they fail to maintain their trees’ clearance and this results in damage to power lines or equipment.

Cutting trees near live lines

Only Counties Energy-approved arborists may cut or trim trees within 4m of an overhead line. We can refer you to a fully qualified and experienced contractor or temporarily disconnect your supply so the trimming can be done safely.

It’s important you take the necessary precautions to keep you and others safe.

Always treat lines as live, and if a tree or object touches a line call 0800 100 202 immediately.

House prices – no boom or bust expected

What’s been falling should spring back up. As Cotality reports, house values nationwide (including in Franklin) should experience modest growth until the end of the year after a period of (overall) slight decline. “Affordability has improved, mortgage rates have stabilised and listings appear to be easing slightly,” Cotality’s Kelvin Davidson says.

“Sales activity has been lifting for some time now, but elevated listings are still keeping pricing power largely with buyers, which is why overall value growth has remained fairly subdued.”

The organisation’s latest Mapping the Market analysis

shows figures vary at suburb-level across the country.

“Even within the same region, property values and trends can vary quite significantly depending on local supply, demand and economic conditions,” Davidson says. The Mapping the Market report shows median current house values in Franklin vary between a little under $600,000 (Port Waikato) to almost $1.7 million (Clevedon). Other higher price areas include Waiau Pa and Bombay (both approx. $1.3 million).

In urban centres, values sit at around $840,000 (Pukekohe), $764,000 (Papakura), $773,000 (Waiuku) and $694,000 (Tuakau).

Over the past year, median values have slid back (by up to 6%) across most of Franklin with the exception of Clevedon which fell by 10.1%. In addition to slight reductions in most areas over the past quarter, there have been slight increases, a sign that the tide is turning.

The amount of new housing in any given area has been applying some downward pressure on prices especially with regards to townhouses.

In general, the market has been more stable in rural regions. Davidson says this is likely due to better affordability and the strength of the farming sector at a regional level. “Some regional markets

linked to strong rural economies have been holding up well,” he says. “That combination of lower price points and stable local economic conditions can provide a bit more resilience when the broader market is subdued.”

Growth is expected (on average and overall), but the general election, debt-toincome lending restrictions and global economic risks remain important factors to watch, Davidson adds.

“Those factors should support gradual value growth, but buyers and sellers remain cautious, so the prospect of a boom looks unlikely.”

Cotality’s Mapping the Market report is accessible via cotality.com.

Electric news – rail is a no fail during fuel shock

Electrification of Auckland’s rail network could not have come soon enough given the current fuel crisis.

While electrification of the majority of the network was completed by 2014, Pukekohe finally came online in February last year, ditching the need for diesel trains.

Shielded from rocketing fuel prices, Auckland Transport’s services have seen a rise in use.

The new City Rail Link (CRL) should encourage even more Aucklanders to take to the trains, Auckland Council’s Transport and Infrastructure Delivery Committee chair, and Franklin Ward councillor, Andy Baker says.

“The CRL will open up easy and efficient travel in and around the city for those

further from the city centre, while connecting the likes of Pukekohe and Franklin with our urban population. Everywhere will benefit.”

The CRL itself, the upgrade of neighbourhoods around new stations and a higher frequency timetable will all improve how the city

moves, grows and competes, Baker expects. “When the new stations open, I think Aucklanders will be proud of what they see. We have built stunning long-term assets for the city. Our city centre has been regenerated, and we’re ready. I’m excited that Aucklanders will soon be able to enjoy it.”

The economic advantages of the new transport network will be widespread, Auckland Council chief economist, Gary Blick, says.

“A more productive Auckland is not only more competitive in attracting people, skills, and investment; ultimately it’s a more liveable place for everyone.”

In this respect, the CRL is much more than a transport project, location director for the city centre, Simon

Oddie, adds. “It’s a city-shaping investment. Our new station neighbourhoods have created places that connect people seamlessly to jobs, learning, culture and daily life, while supporting a more walkable, resilient and low-carbon city centre.”

FRANKLIN STATIONS ON TRACK

Work on three new railway stations in Franklin is progressing at pace. While Drury and Paerata stations are both expected to be operational within the next few months, Ngakoroa, located in Drury West, should be open for business next year.

The stations will provide more accessible public trans-

port, faster connections into the city, and they will help reduce congestion on local roads, Viknesh Kugadas from KiwiRail expects.

“KiwiRail and our contractors have been working hard over the past few years to deliver new railway stations for south Auckland ahead of anticipated population growth, supported by significant government investment, he says.

“As we enter the final stages of construction for the Drury and Paerātā Railway Stations, we have been pleased to see the successful power connection to the main switchboard at Drury and Paerata – an exciting milestone for the project.”

Our technology helps you drive your business forward.

3M disrupted the abrasives market by inventing Precision-Shaped Grain – a uniformly shaped triangular mineral that self sharpens to expose new cutting points throughout its life.

Unlike conventional mineral, this self-sharpening action delivers a faster, more consistent cut rate and exceptional service life.

Innovation Franklin: On Merritt, on board…

Franklin Local Board member Merritt

Watson is now also on board with Innovation Franklin.

The organisation is focused on connecting local companies with resources, funding and expertise to drive innovation and economic development in the region.

Watson says he is excited to become its newest board member. “It’s a group that genuinely focuses on bringing people together – busi-

nesses, community leaders and organisations – to collaborate and shape the future of Franklin,” he says.

“There’s a lot of opportunity ahead for our region, and I’m looking forward to being part of the conversations (and the work) that helps us get there.”

Innovation Franklin’s Fran Oliver believes Watson is the ideal addition to the team.

“As a local, a business owner and a parent, Merritt understands the realities of our community and the importance of balancing growth with what makes Franklin special,” she says.

and horticulture, along with a practical, solutions-focused mindset.

“He brings a strong mix of real-world experience across business, logistics, transport

“We’re looking forward to the perspective, energy and experience Merritt brings to the table.”

Getting Retirement Ready and Beyond

Are you approaching retirement or already navigating this exciting new chapter? Join us for a complimentary, informative and relaxed evening designed to help you feel confident and well-prepared for what’s ahead.

At this event, you’ll hear from industry experts from Forsyth Barr, BDO, Wynyard Wood and Bayleys. They’ll cover valuable topics including investment options to help you navigate retirement financially, business exit strategies, and key legal considerations you shouldn’t overlook.

Whether you’re just beginning to think about retirement, already making plans, or enjoying retirement, this is a perfect opportunity to gain insights and have your questions answered.

Date: Wednesday, 29 April 2026

Time: 5:30pm - 7:00pm

Venue: Forsyth Barr Auckland East, Wynyard Wood House, 60 Highbrook Drive

RSVP: By Friday 24 April to jim.thorogood@forsythbarr.co.nz or call Jim on 09 919 9273.

Please advise any dietary requirements upon RSVP. For any questions, please email jim.thorogood@forsythbarr.co.nz or call Jim on 09 919 9273.

School Holidays in the Square on next week

„ By SHAWNA COLEMAN, General Manager, PBA

If you’re looking for something easy (and free) to do with the kids or grandkids next week, School Holidays in the Square is a great day out to have up your sleeve.

We’ll have a great mix of activities set up right in the Pukekohe Town Square - plenty to keep the kids entertained, busy, and hopefully a little worn out by the end of it. But more than that, it’s a good excuse to make a day of it.

Park up, let the kids get stuck into the activities, then grab a coffee or a treat together. Stick around for lunch at one of the local spots, do a bit of shopping while you’re here, or just take your time and enjoy being in town.

I always think these days are at their best when you don’t rush them. The kids are happy, there’s a bit of a buzz around the square, and you get to slow things down for a few hours. It’s also a nice reminder of what we’ve got right here in Pukekohe - great businesses, good food, and a vibrancy that flows through town.

So, if you’re planning your week, pop it on the list. Bring the kids, bring the grandparents, and make a day of it!

We’ll see you there. Wednesday 15th April, 10am – 2pm at the Pukekohe Town Square.

Shawna Coleman

www.pukekohe.org.nz

When a neighbour needs your help

Mai Lighthouse is the leading social services agency across Franklin and North Waikato.

„ By MAI LIGHTHOUSE

You’ve felt it before. That quiet nudge that something isn’t quite right with the person next door, the whānau down the road, or the friend who’s gone a little too quiet lately.

Maybe the curtains haven’t opened in a few days. Maybe the kids seem unsettled. Maybe someone just doesn’t seem like themselves — and you can’t put your finger on why.

That feeling matters. And more often than not, it’s right. But what do you do with it? Most of us hesitate. We don’t want to intrude. We don’t want to assume.

We worry about saying the wrong thing, or making things awkward, or overstepping into something that isn’t our business.

Here’s the truth: showing up for someone doesn’t require the perfect words. It just requires a little courage and a lot of heart. Start small. A knock on the door, a plate of food, a simple “I’ve been thinking about you — how are you really doing?” can open a door that someone has been waiting for someone else to open. You don’t need to have answers. You don’t need to fix anything. Often, being seen is enough.

If you sense something more serious is going on — family stress, safety concerns, or someone struggling with their mental health — it’s okay to gently ask whether they’ve got support around them. You might mention local services, offer to make a call together, or simply sit with them while they figure out their next step.

Community is not just about proximity. It’s about paying attention to one another — and being willing to act on what we notice. At Mai Lighthouse, we work alongside whānau every day who simply need someone to say, “I see you, and there’s help available.” Sometimes that someone is a professional. And sometimes it’s a neighbour.

If you’re not sure where to start, we are. Reach us at admin@mailighthouse.org.nz or call 09 238 6233. Nau mai — we’re here.

Contracting out agreements in New Zealand: Practical protection for modern relationships

In New Zealand, what many people call a “prenup” is more commonly known as a contracting out agreement.

Under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976, married couples, civil union partners, and de facto couples can choose to “contract out” of the default rules that would otherwise divide relationship property equally if the relationship ends. While often associated with wealthy individuals, these agreements are increasingly relevant for everyday New Zealanders navigating modern relationships.

A contracting out agreement is especially useful in second marriages or relationships where one or both partners have children from a previous relationship. In these situations, people often want to protect certain assets — such as a family home, savings, or an inheritance — for their children. Without an agreement in place, those assets could

be divided equally if the relationship ends, regardless of how they were originally acquired.

For example, someone entering a second marriage may already own a home they intend to pass on to their children. A contracting out agreement can clearly state that the property remains separate, helping to avoid disputes down the track. This can provide peace of mind not just for the couple, but for their wider family as well.

These agreements are also valuable for people bringing unequal assets into a relationship — such as a business, investments, or KiwiSaver balances. Rather than relying on default rules that may not reflect

Partner at Franklin Law

their individual circumstances, couples can create a tailored arrangement that feels fair to both parties from the outset.

Importantly, contracting out agreements are not about expecting a relationship to fail. They are a practical form of finan-

cial planning — much like insurance. Having open conversations early and documenting intentions clearly can significantly reduce stress and legal costs if circumstances do change in the future.

To be legally valid, both partners must receive independent legal advice, and the agreement must be in writing, signed, and witnessed by each party’s lawyer. This process ensures that both people fully understand their rights and the implications of what they are agreeing to.

Contracting out agreements are not just for the wealthy. They are a sensible, accessible tool that can help everyday New Zealanders protect their assets, provide for their children, and begin a relationship with clarity and confidence.

For more information visit www.franklinlaw.co.nz or contact Sarah on (09) 552 0622 sarahh@franklinlaw.co.nz

Timing matters, but isn’t everything

„ By CHARLES MILLER

Everyone appreciates the sound of a perfect golf drive.

The crack is clean, sharp and decisive, and is the epitome of perfect timing. It puts you well on your way to the pin and ahead of the competition.

In business, timing works much the same way. Get it wrong and it takes significant effort to recover. Get it right and you start closer to the goal and better placed to convert the opportunity into results. The research is clear on this.

Idealab analysed more than 200 companies and found timing accounted for 42 per cent of start-up success, ahead of team strength and composition at 32 per cent, with idea, business model and funding trailing.

Timing and team drive 75 per cent of successful out-

comes. I’ve referenced this before, but two current stories make it worth revisiting.

In the Scottish Highlands, a 19-metre rocket called Prime sits silent on its deserted launch pad.

Owner Orbex was founded in 2015 with genuine technical edge and £26 million in British taxpayer backing. In 2026 it filed for administration after funding dried up and a rescue deal collapsed. Chief executive Phil Chambers said they were “on the cusp” of first test flights.

Cusps can never be banked – only a track record of successful satellite launches can. The commercial small-launch market Orbex targeted is significant and growing, but Rocket Lab, founded by Invercargill engineer Sir Peter Beck in 2006, had already spent a decade climbing the learning curve, refining materials and pro-

duction, building infrastructure and securing customers. Their timing was decisive – explosive growth in data, telecommunications, GIS applications and the demand for low Earth orbit networks created exactly the market Sir Peter had positioned for. Their execution had been disciplined and delivery consistent.

By the time Orbex came to the party, the market was mature and their timing late. No amount of execution could recover the position.

Now look to Wellington. Startup Wellumio is developing Axana, a portable neuroimaging device designed to detect strokes within the golden hour, when every minute matters.

They’ve recently raised NZ$7.3 million in preliminary funding.

Their timing aligns with ageing populations, overwhelmed emergency rooms,

and the global shift towards delivering distributed acute care beyond hospital walls.

The underlying technology has reached the point where scale and affordability can take Axana to market. The tailwinds are strong, but converting that opportunity will still require a team capable of disciplined execution.

A Scottish rocket that never reached orbit. A Wellington brain scanner that may change emergency medicine.

Both had great ideas. Both had process and funding. It comes down to the combination of timing and team –the insight and instinct to get right down the fairway, and the grit and discipline to get to the green and sink the putt.

Timing gets you to the tee with a perfect drive.

The ability, commitment and executional skill of the team delivers ultimate success.

Pool party – pooches lap it up

Cool cats need not apply but hot dogs are more than welcome at upcoming pool parties at the Ngaruawahia (April 11) and Tuakau (April 12) pools.

Providing the perfect opportunity for local pups to enjoy a last swim with their furry friends before the end of summer, Pound Pups Pool Parties ensures good dogs will have their day.

Entry fees ($15 per dog) will be split between Waikato District Council’s de-sexing programme, the PUP fund, and Fundraising for Impounded Dogs. Dogs must be fully vaccinated, registered with council, in good health, and able to get along well with people and other dogs. They must be on a lead when not in water and all owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs.

IT’S A SWIM THING…

Swimming provides a wide

range of physical and mental benefits for dogs. A low-impact form of exercise, it’s particularly suitable for older dogs, pooches carrying extra weight, or pets recovering from injury.

Unlike running or jumping, swimming reduces strain on joints while still

allowing dogs to stay active and build strength.

Swimming provides a full-body workout. As dogs paddle, they engage multiple muscle groups, improving strength, flexibility and overall fitness.

In addition, it supports cardiovascular health by

Live by the coast at Park Green

enhancing heart and lung function, which can lead to better endurance over time.

Because it burns plenty of calories, swimming can help dogs lose weight and maintain a healthy body.

Aside from physical benefits, swimming delivers mental stimulation. Many dogs enjoy the water which can reduce boredom and anxiety.

Swimming helps regulate body temperature and prevents dogs from overheating, making it an ideal form of exercise during warmer weather. It is also widely used in rehabilitation programs, with hydrotherapy helping dogs recover from surgery or more minor injuries by improving mobility with less discomfort than some other activities.

Overall, swimming is a fun, safe and beneficial activity that supports a dog’s health, happiness and wellbeing.

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Spanning 97 hectares with retained wetlands and stunning coastal views, Park Green brings together nature, convenience, and modern living on your doorstep.

Choose from quality new homes, design-and-build options, or secure a section today.

Lest we forget ANZAC DAY

Āwhitu: Starts at 8.30am at Awhitu Cenotaph, Āwhitu Central Church.

Papakura Police Station, starting 8.45am with the 9am service at the cenotaph.

Pokeno: The parade will begin at 9am, with assembly at the Z station carpark, march along to Market Road to the cenotaph for the service.

Bombay: Parade assembly at 8.35am at Paparata Road, starting at 8.45am to the service at the Bombay Memorial Arch.

Buckland: Begins at 9.45am at the cenotaph on Buckland Road.

Clevedon: Begin at 9.30am for wreath laying at Clevedon Monument then walk to the Clevedon Community Hall for the service starting at 10.15am.

Drury: Begins at 11am at Drury Cenotaph, Tui Street. We have chairs but if you want to be sure, bring your own chair along.

Kariaotahi: Following the creation of a WWII Honours Roll Board, a special dedication ceremony will be held at 2pm at Kariaotahi Hall at 19 Binns Road, Waiuku.

Ōrere/Kawakawa Bay: Parade assembly 9.55am at Ōrere Primary School, parade commences at 10am. Service directly after the parade at Ōrere War Memorial Hall.

Papakura: Dawn parade assembly at 5.30am at Papakura Police Station, 64 Wood Street, beginning at 5.45am with the service at 6am at Cenotaph, on the corner of Great South Road and Ōpaheke Road. Civic service parade assembly 8.30am at

Port Waikato: Begins at 9am at the fire station, 83 Maunsell Road.

Pukekohe: Dawn parade assembly at 5.40am at Pukekohe Scout and Guide Hall; parade leaves at 5.50am, service at 6am at the carpark of Pukekohe War Memorial Hall. As a wet weather option, commemorations will be held at Pukekohe Intermediate School Hall. Civic parade assembly at 10.40am at Pukekohe Scout and Guide Hall; parade leaves at 10.50am, service at 11am at Pukekohe Intermediate School Hall.

Tuakau: Gather for the parade from 10.30am at the Tuakau Cosmopolitan Club for 11am start.

Waiuku: Parade assembly 10.30am outside St Andrews Church commencing at 10.45am to the cenotaph. Service begins at 11am.

Waiau Pa/Clarks Beach/Patumahoe: Parade assembly is 10am at Waiau Pa Hall, parade begins at 10.30am into Waiau Pa school grounds, immediately followed by the service.

• Is your service missing from this list? Email editor@franklintimes. co.nz and we will add it to our website and next edition of the paper.

25.04.2026

25 April is a day of remembrance and commemoration, and RSA Franklin will be hosting both Pukekohe ANZAC Day services as follows:

DAWN SERVICE: 6.00 am

PUKEKOHE WAR MEMORIAL TOWNHALL

5.50 am approx: Parade will leave from outside Liquorland / BNZ corner Massey Ave and Roulston St Pukekohe and march to Pukekohe War Memorial Townhall and RSA Franklin** for the Service.

Breakfast will be available at RSA Franklin** after this event. All Welcome.

CIVIC SERVICE: 11.00 am

PUKEKOHE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL

10.50 am approx: Form up outside the Scout Hall, cnr Harris and Edinburgh Sts.

Parade will go from the school entrance on Edinburgh St to the Pukekohe Intermediate School Hall.

Lunch available at the RSA Franklin**.

Thanks to the Franklin Board, Auckland Council

** RSA Franklin has temporarily relocated to the Pukekohe War Memorial Townhall Concert Chamber. **

Cathy Cowen’s water(colour)works

„ By KERRY LEE

As her mother is also an artist, it was only a matter of time before Cathy Cowen began dabbling also.

Cowen has been painting for the past 10 years or so, and while she doesn’t have any formal training, her work has met with success. However, she is still learning.

“I’m more self-taught and I have learned from my peers around me,” she says. “We learn from each other and learn different techniques.”

While she has begun working with acrylics, Cowen specialises in watercolours, the first medium she explored. She says she finds it hard to describe her work and she never paints

any one thing in particular. While some artists have a focal point for their art or a central theme, Cowen tends to look at the page in front of her and ask herself what she is most inspired by or simply what she feels like painting

“I particularly love flowers because I’m a gardener. I love roses – they’ve been a challenge for me to paint in the past, so I’m trying to develop a style I’m happy with. I’m developing more of a vintage rose style,” Cowen explains.

“I like watercolours because of their translucency, their lightness and their fluidity. Watercolours seem to have a mind of their own.” Cowen’s mother, Mary Maxwell, has been an artist for approximately 30 years

and still enjoys painting aged 91. Unlike her daugh ter, Maxwell studied art as a teenager and she has worked with several mediums, including oil and acrylics, dry pastels and, in the last 10 years, watercolours.

a lot of teaching is wrong,” Cowen adds.

Despite both preferring watercolours, Cowen says their styles are very different, each shaped by the training they’ve received and to the point that neither can replicate the other’s work entirely.

“I try to paint like her, but I can’t, and she can’t paint as I do.” Subjectivity of art and unrealistic expectations can cause some to set down their brushes, but it shouldn’t.

“I don’t believe it’s anyone’s right to question someone else’s art or creativity, and I come across a lot of people who have come through schooling put off because of the expectation to replicate someone else’s work and do it perfectly the first time. I think that’s where

“To me, it’s about learning your medium, learning how to use it, and it’s about expressing your own passion.” For her art is subjective and she understands that what works for her may not be for everyone. As she puts it beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

“I had this very accomplished, international artist who was a part of our group and she was slightly, critical of another person’s artwork.

“And I said, art is very subjective and the beauty is in the eye, the beholder. You and I may believe that it hasn’t been executed very well, but somebody will come in here and absolutely love it for what it is.

MAKING WAVES

Surf Life Saving Kariaotahi’s IRB Team travelled to Gisborne to race at the BP New Zealand IRB Championships, hosted at Waikanae Beach.

The three-day event, held from March 27 to 29, featured 118 crews from 21 clubs across New Zealand and Australia competing. Kariaotahi had two crews racing, one in Open Women’s and one in Open Men’s.

The calm and shallow conditions made for intense and technical racing, with very close finishes across the competitive field. Kariaotahi’s

crews raced well throughout the event, making it through the rounds for four finals appearances, but were unable to clinch any medals this time.

The Open Women’s Team’s race was another highlight, where Kariaotahi debuted one of its youngest lifeguards as crew, giving them great exposure to racing.

Results — Open Women’s: 4th Tube, 6th Assembly, 6th Single. Open Men’s: 6th Teams Race

Photos by Susie Hare, Pukekohe Franklin Camera Club.

Plan ahead with compassion and clarity, ensuring your farewell reflects your values, your voice, and the life you’ve lived

The peak of the FE season is upon us, so now is the time to act if you haven’t done so already.

When thinking about FE, it is important to think about the 3 W’s: Warm, Wet and (W)rotten.

• Warm: Facial eczema most commonly occurs once the mean evening temperatures stay above 12 degrees Celsius

• We: Moisture is needed for the fungus to grow; high humidity and showers of rain are ideal for fungal growth

• (W)rotten: Dead matter is the preferred breeding ground of the fungus that

ter will likely be present in many pastures.

FE symptoms occur due to the ingestion of fungal spores, causing liver damage, which results in loss of appetite, skin peeling, shade seeking, facial swelling, agitation and possible death.

FE is a disease where prevention is better than cure. There are several possible strategies to prevent FE:

• Spraying pastures with a product to prevent fungal growth can be very effective, but timing is crucial and can be tricky, especially if a rain shower washes away the product.

Use of ‘safe’ supplemen

Dr Jennifer Stone BVSc (Dist)

to grow on ryegrass, crops such as turnips, maize, chicory, meal, PKE, and silage/ baleage are considered ‘safe’ as these feeds will have minimal or no spores.

drink enough water for trough supplementation to be effective during moderate- to high-challenge seasons. Therefore, bolus supplementation with products such as Faceguard is considered the best option. When given at the correct doses, Zinc is very effective at preventing FE, but if too much is given, Zinc can also be very toxic, so talk to us about the correct dose/bolus size if you are in any doubt.

WHEN TO SUPPLEMENT?

Supplementation with zinc has been the backbone of FE prevention for many years. Dry stock do not

• The FE season usually begins in January or when we get ideal conditions. Remember the 3 W’s

• FE season can go on longer than you think, don’t stop treatment too early

• Once you begin supplementation, it takes 7-10 days for protective levels to be reached, leaving supplementation until you see cases is too late!

• Monitor our website for spore counts in your area, or even better, bring a pasture sample to us for a count. Samples need to be 60g, cut the grass off at ground level without soil/roots and make sure you get a sample from across the entire paddock for an accurate count.

For more information, talk to your local Franklin Vets team.

PRINCIPAL IN PERSON with Michaelene Nu’u, Aka Aka School

How long have you been an educator, and where did you train?

I had always wanted to be a teacher, but I took a few detours before completing my training at what was then Auckland College of Education in Epsom in 2000, as a ‘mature’ student.

In April 2001, after spending some time living on a plantation in Fiji, I flew home on a whim to apply for my first teaching role. I had an interview on the Thursday and started the following Monday. That marked the beginning of a 14-year journey from beginning teacher to associate principal at Rongomai School in Otara — a place I hold very dear to my heart.

When did you become the principal of Aka Aka School?

I took on the role of acting principal in July 2015, applied for the position, and was appointed in September 2015. Calf Club was my first official duty as principal — it was a baptism by fire! Since then, I’ve learned many things as a teaching principal in a rural school — from septic tanks to calf types,

pool pumps, and even how to deal with a stray cow making its way onto the field… gumboots and a plunger are never too far from my grasp.

What’s the best thing about being an educator and principal?

The people. No matter what your day is like, five minutes with a group of kids puts everything into perspective. Their vibrancy, fresh perspectives, and acceptance of others are a constant reminder to keep things real. I feel privileged to be part of shaping the future through education, and I never take lightly the trust our whanau place in me and our team, who are dedi-

cated, passionate, and enthusiastic, in their service for our community.

The support from fellow principals in Franklin is next level. We’re very fortunate to work within such a collegial group of people, all doing their absolute best for their school communities and for Franklin as a whole.

What’s special about Aka Aka School?

Aka Aka School has a special wairua — it’s a calm and welcoming space. We are known for our inclusivity; our students accept differences, and we celebrate it. We love hands-on learning and making the most of our environ-

ment to support and enrich learning. Our vision is to create a safe, happy place where children can learn, grow, and express themselves authentically

Is there anything you’d like improved in the education/ school management sector?

I would love to see a bipartisan approach to education. This would bring muchneeded stability to the system and allow us to focus our energy on improving outcomes, rather than constantly responding to change with each new government.

We also desperately need more support for students in classrooms. A qualified teacher aide in every classroom would make a significant difference — a great teacher aide is worth their weight in gold.

How is the relationship between Aka Aka School and its immediate local community?

We have a fabulous relationship with our local community; they are incredibly supportive, and we truly appreciate that and all they do for us and with us.

Paerata Rise is one of Franklin’s fastest growing master-planned communities, and the momentum is real.

Built for people who want more from where they live. New stages are well underway, so there’s never been a better time to come and explore. SUPERMARKET TRAIN STATION CAFE

This is a neighbourhood where you know your neighbours. Where it’s safe to put down roots, whether you’re raising a family or looking for a connected, independent lifestyle.

www.paeratarise.co.nz

Beachlands club ready to rock

„ By KERRY LEE

The Beachlands Charter Club is hosting its first Club Jam Night for young musicians on April 18, from 7.30pm.

It is intended to draw in as many people as possible to the club, manager Sandra Bates says “So many of our members have kids who have drums in the garage or play guitars in their bedrooms, but they don’t have a group of local friends away from school that they can sit and jam with.

“The Club Jam Night was born from that concept. We have the perfect facilities for this and the time and space to do it. I think it’s important to use that space for the benefit of our community.”

Many club members with musical experience have volunteered their time to help set up, and one has given the club a set of drums and a PA system.

Bates is hoping to create an atmosphere where anyone, regardless of skill level,

can learn to play and play with other music enthusiasts.

Event organiser, Dave

Spadafora, says the event provides a great way to bring the community together through a shared love of music.

“Club Jam Night is an opportunity to help bring together people from both our local community and beyond to play music.

“My goal is to support experienced musicians and those who want to perform but lack a local platform. Every budding singer, guitarist, or band is very welcome, and I know there are many talented individuals in our area we need to encourage.”

The Beachlands Chartered Club is located on the corner of Third View Avenue and Wakelin Road. All are welcome and the Club Jam Night is free.

“The Beachlands Club is eager to welcome the community to utilise its facilities and Jam Night is a key event in supporting that goal.”

IS IT TIME TO SWITCH TO AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE?

As fuel prices fluctuate and environmental concerns grow, many drivers in Auckland are asking the same question: is it time to switch to an electric vehicle (EV)?

Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly common across New Zealand, thanks to improved technology and expanding charging infrastructure.

For city drivers, EVs offer several advantages. They produce zero tailpipe emissions, helping reduce air pollution, and are often cheaper to run compared to petrol and diesel vehicles.

With fewer moving parts, maintenance costs can also be lower over time. However, switching to an EV is not without its challenges. Upfront costs can still be higher than traditional vehicles, although this may be offset by long-term savings.

Charging is another consideration, while public charging stations are becoming more available, having access to home charging makes ownership far more convenient.

Range anxiety, or concern about how

far an EV can travel on a single charge, is also a factor for some drivers.

That said, modern EVs are improving rapidly, with many models now easily covering daily commuting needs. For Auckland motorists, the decision often comes down to lifestyle. Those who primarily drive short

distances around the city may find an EV to be a practical and cost-effective choice.

As infrastructure continues to grow and technology advances, electric vehicles are becoming a more realistic option for everyday driving. So, is it time to switch? For many, the answer is increasingly yes.

QWhat’s this big fight that you have coming up?

I’ll be facing Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Olympian Skye Nicolson for the WBC Interim World Super Bantamweight Title. The winner of the contest earns a mandatory shot at the full WBC World Championship.

Nicolson has had 139 amateur bouts, a Commonwealth Games gold medal, an Olympic appearance, and a decorated international career before turning professional. Meanwhile, I’ve never fought as an amateur. My 13 professional contests comprise my entire competitive record, with a knockout ratio of six stoppages across 13 fights.

It’s a life-changing opportunity for more than just me and my family; it’s a chance to show other women how far you can come in the sport.

I want to prove to people where I come from that anything is possible. I want young girls from South Auckland to see someone who looks like them standing on a world stage.

College alum about her boxing journey.

How did you end up boxing?

I was raised in Papakura (although we also lived in Conifer Grove and Takanini) in a household steeped in combat sport — my father trained in boxing and kickboxing, my mother in karate, and my brother accumulated 30 professional bouts across kickboxing and boxing.

About seven years ago, while in Queensland, I started in Muay Thai. I had seven fights altogether at the amateur level, on and off. I really enjoyed Muay Thai. I wanted to originally do kickboxing, but in Queensland, kickboxing isn’t as popular. Whereas, compared to back home in New Zealand, kickboxing has a bit more of an audience.

I still love Muay Thai as an art. I think it’s a really beautiful sport. But for me, I fell out of love with Muay Thai because I was losing competitions. I kept training and was asked if I wanted to do a corporate boxing match about five years ago.

I now work with coach Luke Meldon at

Fortitude Boxing in Brisbane, and it’s a great atmosphere there.

How was the transition from Muay Thai to boxing?

My body had had enough of Muay Thai training, and learning boxing gave me a different outlook, and I loved being back in the gym. I found it difficult at first, as Muay Thai has a wider stance and a wider guard. I had to unlearn a lot, actually.

I could never find the amateur matches, appropriate matches, because they still considered my Muay Thai record, although I hadn’t had any amateur boxing fights. I think it was difficult for me to get matched up accordingly in amateur boxing, because they knew of my Muay Thai.

I had my professional debut about six months after taking up boxing.

Can you tell me about your first professional bout?

It was against a strong girl from the Sunshine Coast, Callie Ryan. She was

a Muay Thai fighter as well; it was her second fight and my first fight. I was really grateful that they found me a good quality opponent who had her debut against one of Australia’s top boxers. I really had nothing to lose.

Can you make a living as a female professional boxer?

I work full-time, managing Fortitude Gym’s day-to-day operations, coaching a mixed adult class, and coaching a few clients one-on-one.

To make a living, what I’m doing now requires a lot of sacrifices. I work full-time, and I really need to invest all that I can into what I’m doing, and the gym fits in with that. I was working in administration for a construction company, and in hospitality before that.

A lot of professional boxers also coach full-time ... we still have to work as we can’t survive off sponsorships and collaborations. Last year, I was lucky enough to secure my own sponsor, Cappah Group.

What would you say to anyone, particularly young women, who want to take up boxing?

In New Zealand, we have some amazing female boxers like Lani Daniels and Mea Motu, who are great role models for me. Lani is a Northland-based world champion who has held both the IBF light heavyweight and IBF heavyweight titles, and Mea is a top-ranked superbantamweight based in Kaitaia, who has held the IBO super-bantamweight world title and has a dominant, unbeaten record. For any females, whether it’s boxing or not, whatever it is, if you really want to do something, then you have to trust yourself. Don’t let anyone talk you out of what you want to do. If I had let people talk me out of that, I wouldn’t be doing what I am right now. So have that drive.

I think if you look at all of the Polynesian fighters and Maori fighters, there are similarities. I think, within all of us, where we come from, our ancestors, and having that warrior blood in us. Really embrace it and give it a chance to shine.

• The WBC Interim World Super Bantamweight Title bout is scheduled for 10 2-minute rounds and takes place on April 29 at the Melbourne Pavilion, Australia.

Osteoporosis v osteoarthritis

What is the difference?

Medical terminology can be confusing. The prefix “osteo” means “bone” and is derived from the Greek “osteon”, indicating a connection to bone.

The skeleton is made up of bones of different shapes and where one section of bone joins another there is a joint. Joints are where the wear and tear occurs.

Osteoporosis

• “Poros” means “holey”

• Occurs in the bones

• Usually, no symptoms

• Measured with a DXA scan imaging

• You can self-refer for a DXA scan

Osteoarthritis

• “Arthritis” means joint inflammation

• Occurs in the joints

• Pain/swelling/redness/ limited mobility

• Assessed with conventional x-ray

• You will need a GP referral for x-rays

What does a DXA scan involve?

DXA scanners measure bone density using x-ray technology; however, they do not produce an x-ray image in the conventional sense. The scans are quick, easy and non-invasive, you simply lie on your back on the scanner table, and it takes just a few seconds to acquire the images. The World Health Organization indicates the sites used to assess bone density are the hip, lower spine and in some cases the wrist.

The hip and spine are weight-bearing areas, therefore providing the most accurate data. Remember Heidi’s catchphrase “bones grow where stress goes”? Ideal exercises for increasing bone density are weight-bearing activities and resistance training. High impact movements such as brisk walking, jogging, and dancing are the most effective for building bone, while strength training (weights, bands) protects bone mass. Aim for 30 minutes every day if possible.

If you have osteoporosis, it is very important to protect the spine from fractures by avoiding high-impact, jarring exercises like jogging, jumping, extreme spinal bending (sit-ups, toe-touches) and forceful twisting movements (golf, tennis). Focus on controlled weight-bearing and strength-training movements that avoid flexion and minimise the risk of falls. Walking, hiking, Tai Chi are safer alternatives. It is advisable to consult with your doctor before you begin any new exercise regime.

Next time: Medications affecting bone health

REBUILDING TRUST IN YOUR BODY AFTER INJURY OR ILLNESS

MICHELLE KEENAN empowers people and organisations to achieve optimal wellbeing by providing customised wellness coaching programmes tailored to their unique goals.

When your body has been through injury or illness, the impact is not just physical. Healing often takes time, and there can be a sense of uncertainty or fear as you begin, and move through, that process.

Movements that once felt automatic may now feel unfamiliar or risky, and there can be hesitation where there was once confidence – what you took for granted has been taken away, even if only temporarily.

This loss of trust is a natural response. Your body has, in some way, felt unreliable, and your mind adapts by becoming more cautious. This becomes a problem if that caution lingers long after it’s needed, holding you back from returning to movement in a meaningful way.

Rebuilding trust is not something that can be rushed. It develops gradually, through repeated experiences of safe, steady movement. This often means starting more gently than you might expect and progressing more slowly than you’d like!

Professional guidance, whether that’s from your physio, or a qualified personal trainer or Pilates instructor with experience in rehabilitation, can be invaluable through this journey.

It requires patience, and a willingness to meet your body where it is now, rather than where it used to be. Importantly, trust is not rebuilt through pushing or proving something to yourself.

It comes from consistency and reliability – from showing yourself that your body can move without pain, can respond without setback, and can support you again in everyday life.

There may still be limitations, and there may still be days that feel unpredictable. But over time, as positive experiences accumulate, confidence will quietly and steadily begin to return.

Remember that your body hasn’t failed you, you just need to approach things a little differently than before. Work with what you’ve got, and you can move forward from there.

www.michellekeenan.com

STOP WASTING MONEY ON MAKE-UP

„ By SARAI ELORA, Bonita Artistry

There’s a quiet frustration I see almost daily: women standing in front of their make-up bags filled with products they’ve invested in, yet still feeling like they have “nothing that works”.

Half-used foundations. Lipsticks that looked perfect in-store but never get worn. Skincare that promised glow but didn’t quite deliver.

The truth is, it’s not that you’re choosing the wrong products. It’s that you’ve never been shown how to choose for yourself.

In today’s beauty world, we’re constantly influenced by trends and viral products. But what works for someone else, on their skin, their lifestyle, their features, won’t automatically translate to you. The shift begins with asking better questions before you buy.

Not “Is this product popular?”, but “Does this reflect my personal expression, what lights me up when I see myself, enhances my features in a way I love, and complements the occasion and what I’m wearing?”

If your mornings are fast-paced, you don’t need a 10-step routine. You need products that are effortless and reliable. A breathable base like ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 ($94, MECCA) evens out the complexion while still letting your skin feel like skin. A cream blush such as Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick (from $51, MECCA) blends seamlessly with your fingers for a soft, natural flush.

If your skin leans dry, your focus should be hydration and luminosity. Prep with a nourishing moisturiser like Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream (from $45, MECCA), then layer complexion products that melt into the skin.

HOW TO CHOOSE PRODUCTS THAT SUIT YOU

For oilier skin types, longevity is key. Look for lightweight formulas that balance shine without masking your natural texture, such as NARS Light Reflecting Foundation ($107, MECCA), known for its skin-like finish with staying power.

Even something as simple as mascara can change your entire look when chosen well. A defining, lift-focused formula like Tower 28 MakeWaves Mascara (from $23, MECCA) enhances the eyes with clean volume and separation, without flaking throughout the day.

Another common mistake is buying products in isolation, rather than as part of a routine. A beautiful foundation won’t perform if your skincare underneath isn’t supporting it.

A lipstick won’t feel right if the rest of your make-up doesn’t align with its tone and finish.

The goal isn’t to have more, it’s to have alignment. When your products suit your skin, your features, and your lifestyle, everything becomes easier. Your routine feels intuitive. Your make-up enhances rather than overwhelms. Most importantly, you still feel like yourself, just elevated.

This is the foundation of how we approach beauty at Bonita Artistry. It’s not about following trends, but about refining what already works for you. Because the right products don’t just sit in your make-up bag, they become part of how you move through your day, with confidence and ease.

For more pro beauty guidance and curated product recommendations, follow @ bonitartistry or explore our personalised routines at bonitartistry.co.nz, including our upcoming Ultimate Make-up Shopping List designed to help you shop with clarity and confidence.

STORIES OF POKENO

„ By MATTHEW DEAN

The inspiration for building the original Pokeno Hall was the end of the First World War. The number of people living in the Pokeno community at that time was only approximately 360, but the town had contributed 52 local men to that conflagration and had lost 12, with many more suffering life-changing injuries, including mental health issues.

To memorialise those who died and served, the community, firstly funded by donations the original hall, which was opened in 1920. After the opening of the original hall, the community then went on to fund through donations, the obelisk, which was dedicated on Anzac Day 1921. It is worth noting that the Pokeno community at that time was not only getting over the trauma of the First World War but also the 1918 influenza epidemic.

In those days, we also needed to remember that roads were gravel and often impassable in places over winter. As a result, travel around Pokeno was mostly by walking, horseback or in horse-drawn buggies, and trips to Auckland were by train, infrequent, and a special outing for most people. The original hall served as a school for a time in the 1920s. Mail was sorted

there and delivered home by children. In those days, if someone was leaving the district, they were always farewelled in the hall. Conversely, newcomers were also welcomed into the community at the hall. The original hall’s size soon proved inadequate for all the community’s needs, and talk of building a second, bigger hall soon began. The big hall was built by Mr Irvine, a well-respected local builder who lived on Helenslee Road, with assistance from volunteer labour. Once the big hall was completed in 1930, it soon became the epicentre of the community, with regular dances held and where many weddings took place. The original hall was then relegated to the role of a supper room.

diminishing as we got closer to home.

Baby boomers remember Pokeno Hall as the hub of the community. When they were children, they remember their parents dancing the waltz, foxtrot and three step to Pokeno’s own band formed by Cliff McRobbie on saxophone, Glenis Hodder (nee Hale) on piano, Peter McRobbie on drums, and Brian Hills on trumpet. They have also never forgotten Roy Needham’s movie nights every second Tuesday. These movie nights attracted big crowds who mostly walked to the hall to see them. Afterwards, we children walked home in the dark without any thought of danger, with the number of our companions

A new toilet block was added to the hall in the early 1960s. In the mid 1960s, Playcentre started in the hall with Lois McRobbie as the first supervisor. The original hall/supper room was pulled down in mid 1970, and a new supper room was built. Wally Rodgers and Ron McRobbie, two qualified local builders, drew up the plans and supervised the volunteers who came to help them build it. Wally never got to see the new addition completed, as he died suddenly before it was finished. Volunteers led by John Bell in the early 2000s refurbished and structurally strengthened the big hall that enabled it to be used again after the then-Franklin District Council declared the building unsafe.

Thank you to contributors Annette McFadden (née McRobbie), Ean and Janet McRobbie, Helen Clotworthy and Gail Cameron (née Rodgers).

RACING FESTIVAL BRINGS JOY

The Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival has become one of the key events in New Zealand motorsport.

Held at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park on Saturday, March 28, it was a full-on day with plenty of off-track activities for kids and adults alike.

A favourite seemed to be the pit stop challenge - grown men racing to change tyres was quite the entertainment. Another included the Gazoo Racing Simulator challenge; watching the kids wrench the steering wheel in all manner of directions was amusing to see.

The judges were brought out at 9am, inspecting all the cars in the Show & Shine. There were Celicas, Starlets, Prados, Land

Cruisers, Corollas, MR2s, Supras, Crowns, and many more. The Skid Pan Gymkhana was a fan favourite, with many flocking to the sides to watch. Drivers had to be skilled enough to drift around cones while trying to gain traction on wet, slippery concrete - it looked rather difficult. A hilarious moment occurred when a group of guys stood too close to the barrier… and got soaked by the Corolla E30.

For the very first time at Hampton Downs, Toyota Gazoo Racing’s renowned 4x4 experience also featured. “An iconic event that brings like-minded people together each year, the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival is a great way to celebrate our customers, meet old friends and take in the iconic vehicles,” Toyota Gazoo Racing New Zealand chief strategic officer and vice president, Andrew Davis, told Toyota News.On show at the festival were the new

GR Corolla and Yaris models, which proved their worth in the Hot Laps. Running in three 15-minute blocks, one lucky fan per car got to drift around the speedway with a Pro Driveran experience for sure.

Everyone who attended the event also got the chance to go around the course, in their own cars, for an hour of pure adrenaline. This was called the Happy Laps, and it did seem to put everyone in a better mood.

Attendees owning Toyota or Lexus cars participating in this also got to do the Parade Lap and be a part of the “now infamous” Toyota Gazoo Racing photo.

Toyota Gazoo Racing is focused on pushing the limits for better, which includes testing the capabilities of low-emission technology.

This

week’s Community Hero is Hira McClutchie

This week’s recipient is Hira McClutchie, nominated by Kristy Taurua-Kite, who writes:

“Hira is a powerhouse in our community, relentlessly driving the local combat sports scene forward. Having successfully coordinated two high-energy fight shows, he’s proven his knack for creating platforms where athletes can shine.

“Through his gym, Deepsouthakl, Hira provides a dedicated home for everyone— from those starting a fitness journey to seasoned fighters hungry for the ring.

His commitment extends beyond the gym walls, too; by leading free training groups in local parks, he makes health and discipline accessible to all.”

The Franklin Times is recognising the many wonderful people in our community who go out of their way to help others with our regular Community Hero award.

If you know someone who’s doing amazing things in our community, please email 80 to 100 words describing why they deserve this recognition, highlighting specific actions they’ve taken to benefit our community, with your and their contact details and a high-resolution photo of them, if possible, to editor@franklintimes.co.nz.

Be sure to include details about what they’ve been doing, the impact they’ve made, and how long they’ve been involved in these efforts.

The award is sponsored by Little Ed Pukekohe. Recipients will receive a $50 Little Ed voucher and will be featured in our newspaper and on our website. As we are moving to publishing fortnightly, we will have a Community Hero in each edition of the newspaper.

What's on in Franklin

Brought to you by the Rural and Lifestyle Sales Team

Barfoot & Thompson Pukekohe | Tuakau | Pokeno

April 26

Saturday, April 11, 9am to 12.30pm, Karaka Learning Centre Hall, 113 Harbourside Drive, Karaka

This vibrant community market features 75+ stalls both inside and outside, showcasing a wide range of handmade crafts, homewares, woodwork, candles, jewellery, natural products, raw treats, sweets, floral arrangements, boutique art, and more.There will also be food and coffee available, plus family-friendly entertainment including pony rides, face painting, and live music.

Hololio Estate Farm & Garden Wander

Saturday, April 18, 2pm, Hololio House, 116 Monument Road, Clevedon

Enjoy a relaxed and scenic guided walk through the beautiful Hololio Estate. Starting at the historic 1892 Munro Homestead, the walk crosses the Hololio polo fields before opening to stunning views over the Wairoa floodplain. This easy 5km curated walk takes around three hours and is suitable for ages 5 to 85. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. Limited spaces are available, and bookings via Eventbrite are essential.

Tuakau Pound Pups Pool Party

Sunday, April 12, 10am to 2pm, Tuakau Centennial Pool, Escotts Road, Tuakau

Bring your pup along for a splash in the pool, social play, and a tailwagging good time at this special dog-only pool party. This community fundraiser supports desexing programmes, the PUP fund, and care for impounded dogs. Entry is $15 per dog. Two sessions 10am to 1pm (all friendly dogs), 1pm to 2pm for small dogs under 20kg and nervous pups. All dogs must be vaccinated, registered, healthy, and well.

Waiuku Steel ‘n Wheels Festival

Sunday, April 19, 10am to 2pm, Waiuku Town Centre

The iconic Waiuku Steel ‘n Wheels Festival is back, bringing the town to life with an action-packed day for the whole family. From vintage cars and tractors to V8 and Harley chainsaw races, the thrilling Mount Shop Jet Car, a car crush, and even NZ Warbirds roaring through the sky. Enjoy live entertainment including an Elvis tribute show, the new “Steel Wearable Arts” fashion show, kids carnival rides, markets, music, and food stalls. Entry $5 for adults and a gold coin for kids.

PLEASE NOTE: information regarding times & dates of these events was correct at the time this issue went to print. However, readers are advised to check events online for updates.

The Stars at Rise ‘n Shine Café

Tuesday, April 14, 10am to 12pm, Rise ‘n Shine Café, Paerata Rise

Bring the kids along for a free skills session with some of the country’s top netballers. Whether they’re experienced players or just starting out, it’s a great opportunity to learn, have fun, and get active during the holidays. Adding to the excitement, The Rock Roadies will also be on site with giveaways and good vibes throughout the morning. No registration required—just turn up and enjoy a fun, sporty school holiday event for the whole family.

SIKA Sound Journey

Tuesday, April 28, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, Sharda Centre, 15 Percy Graham Drive, Tuakau

SIKA invites you to “Between the Worlds”, an immersive Sound Journey shaped by over thirty years of ceremonial and sound practice. Blending primal rhythms, deep didgeridoo, atmospheric voice, and foraged field recordings, the journey unfolds organically — moving from dynamic, embodied energy into vast, cinematic stillness.

Live Music with Che Orton

Friday, April 17, 7pm, Pukekohe Cosmopolitan Club, 78 Nelson Street, Pukekohe

Enjoy a great night of live entertainment as award-winning New Zealand singer-songwriter Che Orton takes the stage. Known for his high-energy performances and versatile style, Che blends rock ‘n’ roll with contemporary country, delivering powerful vocals and an engaging live show. Gather your friends, grab a drink, and settle in for a fantastic Friday night of music. Free entry.

Franklin Community Career Expo

Thursday, April 30, 5.30pm to 7.30pm, PIA Event Centre, 55 Ward Street, Pukekohe.

This free community event brings together students, whanau, jobseekers, and members of the wider Franklin community who are interested in discovering new pathways. With something for everyone, the expo offers a welcoming environment to ask questions, gather information, and make valuable connections. No need to register, just turn up on the night!

NEW OWNERSHIP FOR MERCER PUB

„ By KERRY LEE

The Mercer Landing Kitchen and Bar has a new owner.

Despite owning several different businesses in the past, such as a florist’s shop and a toy hire business, Charlotte Anderson has always loved hospitality and wanted to own her own bar. When she was approached about buying the Mercer Landing Kitchen and Bar, she thought, “why not?”

“It was probably around November of last year that we started to talk about buying the Mercer Landing, and then it became official on Christmas Eve.”

As well as the kitchen and bar, she also owns the Mercer Hotel, which shares the same building as the restaurant, and for licensing purposes, she bought them both. Despite being in the same building, they are run as separate businesses.

Anderson says that one of the problems she

is facing is getting the word out that the restaurant is in the area.

“Everyone knows that the motels here, since it’s been here for years, but the [Mercer] Landing is relatively new.

Originally it was called The Last Post, and then Podgers Place and now it’s

“Even the locals don’t know it exists, so the biggest challenges are getting the name out there and getting people to come,” Anderson said.

For the time being, Anderson does not plan to change anything about the restaurant. Despite adding new menus and changing little things, she plans to leave things as they are since the previous owners used the Covid-19 pandemic to renovate the hotel and restaurant from the ground up, making it an essentially new building.

Mercer sits alongside the Waikato River and has a rich history that dates back to the early days of European settlement in the country.

dumplings, black pepper chicken lemongrass beef summer rolls, crispy and char shu pork and pineapple (gf & vg options available)

BOTTOMLESS

BRUNCH EVERY

SAT & SUN

OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 12PM

Bottomless dumplings, black pepper chicken nibbles, lemongrass beef summer rolls, crispy prawn bao, and char shu pork and pineapple friend rice (gf & vg options available)

Bottomless Love You Long Time lager, Prosecco, Mimosas and soft drinks for $59.90 PER PERSON

OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 12PM

ASTROBOT REVIEW

„ By KERRY LEE

One of the most impressive mascots of the last few years would have to be Sony’s very own Astrobot.

More than just a mascot, it is now considered one of the most recognisable and adorable gaming characters of this generation.

When Astrobot first debuted, it was merely a tech demo for the PlayStation 4, showcasing what gamers had to look forward to.

It looked spectacular and whetted people’s appetite for what they could expect from their new toy. The PlayStation 4 would go on to be the biggest-selling console of its generation.

When Astrobot, the proper game, was released in 2024, it became an instant hit, praised for its graphics, sound, and nearconstant nods to Sony’s gaming history.

The premise is that you take on the role of

Astrobot: One of the most impressive games in the past few years. Image supplied

Astrobot as he searches for his fellow robots after their ship crashes and his crew is scattered across different worlds.

While it may look simple on the outside, its deep gameplay and charming characters will instantly hook you.

The visuals are amazing, and the worlds are varied enough that no two look the same.

The game is chock-full of easter eggs from

past titles, and secret levels spread out across games. While the game was $100 when I picked it up, it is well worth the price, as I have had over 40 hours of fun with it so far.

The only real downside is that many younger gamers may not get the references the easter eggs make.

Ultimately, nostalgia is this game’s biggest weapon, and its use is surprisingly effective. Bottom line, if you see this, I highly recommend picking it up.

SLOW COOKER MEALS –

PERFECT WINTER SOLUTION FOR BUSY SCHEDULES

SIMON’S WICKED EASTER PUDDING

INGREDIENTS

• 6 traditional fruit hot cross buns

• 1 cup milk

• 1 3/4 cups cream

• 5 large eggs

• 1/3 cup brown sugar

METHOD

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Finely grated zest of 1 orange

• A pinch of salt

• 6 tbsp Scyavuru Italian Pistachio Sauce

• 1 tbsp raw sugar

Preheat oven to 175°C (155°C fan-forced). Slice top quarter off each hot cross bun, then break remaining portions into chunky pieces and spread them, along with the tops, over a baking tray. Bake for about 8 minutes until lightly dried and just crisping, then transfer bottom pieces to a 1.5-litre ovenproof dish – set aside bun tops. In a bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla, orange zest and a pinch of salt until smooth. Pour half custard over bun pieces, then drizzle Scyavuru Italian Pistachio Sauce evenly across. Arrange bun tops over mixture to form a layer, then pour over remaining custard, pressing gently so everything is well soaked. Leave to stand for 10-15 minutes, pressing again halfway through to help custard absorb evenly. Sprinkle with raw sugar, cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for a further 20-25 minutes until golden and just set. Rest for 10 minutes before serving warm with extra pistachio sauce, chopped pistachios and, if desired, a scoop of Simon Gault Apple Crumble gelato.

SIMON SAYS... Toasting the buns first makes all the difference. Pouring custard in two stages helps create a proper pistachio layer through the middle.

Watch recipe video here!

TASTE WITH GAULT gaultsdeli.co.nz

Serves 8 NOMINATE A

As the colder months settle in and daylight saving ends in New Zealand, shorter days and chilly evenings make home-cooked meals more appealing, but also harder to fit into busy schedules. This is where slow cooker, or crockpot, meals become a practical and comforting solution.

Slow cookers allow you to prepare meals with minimal effort. Ingredients can be added in the morning before work, and by the time you return home, a warm, hearty dish is ready to serve.

This “set and forget” method is especially useful during winter, when energy levels can dip and motivation to cook from scratch is lower. Classic slow-cooked dishes such as beef stew, soups, and casseroles are ideal for colder weather.

These meals not only provide warmth but also allow flavors to develop over time, resulting in rich, satisfying dishes. Cheaper cuts of meat and seasonal vegetables can also be used effectively, making slow cooking a budget-friendly option.

For those with packed schedules, slow cookers support better meal planning and healthier eating habits. Instead of relying on takeaway meals, you can control ingredients, portion sizes, and nutritional value.

Many recipes can also be prepared in bulk, providing leftovers for the next day. As winter approaches, incorporating slow cooker meals into your routine can save time, reduce stress, and ensure you always have something warm and nourishing to come home to.

Know someone making a difference? Nominate them to win a $50 Little Ed voucher! Two local heroes will be chosen each month let’s celebrate the everyday legends in our community!

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MOVIE REVIEW BY

JACK WATSON

HOPPERS

DIRECTOR: Daniel Chong

STARRING: The voices of Piper Curda, Bobby Moynihan, Jon Hamm, Kathy Najimy, and Dave Franco

GENRE: Animated science fictioncomedy

RATING: Four stars

Hoppers is the latest release from Pixar and it proves they still have the same magic they had 20-plus years ago.

Although the film on the surface can be viewed as not much more than just an Avatar clone, Hoppers is able to craft its formulaic plot and see how much twine they can extend without it breaking. Once the second half of the film hits, it’s a completely different movie and it’s all for the best.

Whether it’s car chases or political rallies, Hoppers is able to thrive in its own chaos. Pixar’s signature style is able to shine through with Hoppers being a lovable family-orientated movie paired with hard-hitting conversations directed towards your kids.

A film about taking the world into the younger generation’s hands is something that’s bound to resonate with all children regardless of age. But something that didn’t resonate with me is the humour. It’s a style of writing that doesn’t appeal to my adult-orientated brain, but isn’t enough to sour my experience. Overall, Hoppers is some of the best stuff Pixar and parent company Disney has put out in half a decade and it deserves your attention.

> Jack Watson saw Hoppers at Monterey Howick.

NOTEWORTHY PODCASTS

WATCH READ LISTEN

BEST NEW BOOKS

NO STUPID QUESTIONS WITH SUSAN EDMUNDS

New Zealand financial expert Susan Edmunds answers listeners’ questions on a range of subjects in this ongoing podcast series. Recent episodes feature discussion on KiwiSaver, rising fuel prices, writing a will, the banking industry, inheriting money, renting versus buying property, student loans and more. People can email a question to her at questions@rnz.co.nz.

DEADLINE: WHITE HOUSE

United States broadcaster Nicole Wallace dissects the daily drama emanating from the Trump Administration in this popular podcast. The most recent episode focuses on the threats made against Iran by President Donald Trump on social media and who may replace the recently fired Attorney General Pam Bondi. Wallace has also recently looked at the latest headlines from the current war in the Middle East and the rescue of an American pilot after their fighter jet was shot down.

CHASING EARHART

Amelia Mary Earhart was a pioneering American aviator and the first woman pilot to make a nonstop solo transatlantic flight. She vanished over the Pacific Ocean during a flight in July, 1937. This podcast series has more than 100 episodes with the most recent being a conversation with an author whose new book explores the ‘deaths’ Earhart experienced since she disappeared –culturally, narratively, and symbolically. The book asks how Earhart become a canvas onto which generations project their anxieties, hopes, and suspicions, and what it means to reclaim the woman from the noise.

THE BLACK MONK

RRP $38.

Acclaimed New Zealand author Charlotte Grimshaw’s latest work of fiction centres on a woman haunted by family denial, secrets and a shadowy figure. While Alice Lidell’s brother Cedric spirals into addiction, she finds herself confronted by his decline and memories of past experiences. From their chaotic Auckland childhood to her present-day life, Lidell is haunted by a mysterious figure she calls “the Black Monk”. As Lidell tries to hold her family together, the Black Monk appears in various guises such as a stranger met in a cemetery, a face on television, and a character surfacing in her own writing.

ICE BREAKER! AN EPIC ANTARCTIC ADVENTURE

RRP $7.

Much has been written about explorer Ernest Shackleton’s three expeditions to the Antarctic. What’s not so well-known is the crucial role captain

Frank Worsley played in saving the lives of the crew of Endurance after it got stuck in ice floes and broke apart during the attempt to traverse the continent in 1914. After abandoning their ship, in the Weddell Sea, Worsley led marches across the ice in the hope of reaching land, this book by Maria Gill reveals. Without his precise navigation skills and incredible determination, the rescue party would never have made it.

Patience

FRANKLIN WALKS: Ō OPAHEKE PARK

Live near Papakura and don’t want to spend too much on fuel to get to a park that offers plenty of options? Then Ōpaheke Park is worth a try.

Opened to the public last July, the park was designed to reduce the risk of flooding in the wider Ōpaheke area.

A huge 19 hectares in size, Ōpaheke Park is one of the largest developed parks by the council in South Auckland. It features wide green fields, 2km of walking paths, wetlands, and a pump track for the kids. There’s also a dog park – no fancy access here, wear gumboots or some old shoes.

Recently a disc golf course was added to the park, with nine holes. The beginner course is great for newbies, while the long course offers more challenges.

The course design is very open and suits those players who can throw big. When it rains, the course does become very boggy, and recent users have pointed out that the course itself would benefit from some TLC and judicious

use of weedeaters.

The main thing that’s different about Ōpaheke Park is its purpose as a sponge park, and it’s something that all park users need to keep in mind. When it rains heavily, water needs somewhere to go.

Instead of rushing through existing drains and flooding streets, Ōpaheke Park plays a protective role by holding excess rainwater to help prevent flooding during storms. This helps reduce the impact on houses in nearby low-lying areas and homes at the base of Red Hill.

The park is designed to soak up water during storms and slowly let it flow back into the environment. Less pressure on drains and

pipes – and less chance of flood damage. On dry days, it looks like a regular park. But during heavy rain, which is becoming more frequent in Auckland, it quietly does an important job.

Access to the large car park is from Opaheke Road. Gates are open from 7am to 9pm in summer and 7am to 7pm in winter. A large toilet block with accessible toilets is between the car park and sports fields.

FARMING FUSSY EATERS

„ By NATALIE PITFIELD

It’s a widely held misconception that pigs and goats will eat anything. You hear the stories about goats eating tin cans, and if you’ve ever cuddled a goat and they’ve delicately taken a treat from your hand, you can’t help but marvel at how those soft little lips can rip apart metal.

My pigs were part of our recycling system. We would compost and allocate food scraps to all our different animals to keep our waste to a minimum. All my friends who came to dinner would automatically know to put their food scraps in the pig bucket. They were welltrained.

But there were certain things that Thelma and Louise wouldn’t eat. They hated capsicum. They didn’t like eggplant. They’d delicately eat the grapes off the stalks but would leave the stalks intact. They loved corn but not corn husks. I couldn’t fathom the logic, but figured humans could be picky with what they ate, so why not animals?

The goats, however, took this to a new level.

EASTER ROCKY ROAD

To help you get through your pantry of Easter goodies, Times staff have dug out an Easter twist on a classic sweet treat.

INGREDIENTS:

• Chopped chocolate or chocolate buttons - 270g

• Mini marshmallows - 2 cups

• Popcorn, salted – 45g (you could also use chunks of biscuit)

• Coconut, shredded - 1/4 cup

• Mini or chopped up Easter eggs - 1 cup

Each day, my mum would walk my dogs, and then she’d stop and give the goats some carrots for a treat. They loved this so much. They’d watch her walk and be waiting for her when she arrived back, as they knew it was treat time.

But one day she offered them carrots, and they sniffed their noses up. Mum was so surprised. She tried the next day again, and it was the same thing. She thought perhaps there was some sort of spray or something on the bag of carrots, so she tried something

METHOD:

Line a 20cm x 20cm tin with baking paper.

Place the chocolate in a heat proof bowl over simmering water (the water should not touch the bowl) until melted and smooth. Remove from the heat.

Add the marshmallows and popcorn (or broken biscuits) to the chocolate, stirring quickly to combine. Pour into tin and spread evenly.

Sprinkle the coconut over top and half press Easter eggs into the top of the mixture.

else. And they ate what was offered without a problem.

Over the years, the goats have mostly gobbled whatever was on offer. Mum gives them grapes from her vine, apples and a host of delights that they absolutely love. But every now and then, they decide that the carrots on offer are inferior. I think if you’re lucky enough to be offered something you really love as a treat, that you should just be grateful. Apparently, Mum taught me better manners than I taught my goats.

Refrigerate for 30 minutes then cut into pieces. Store in an airtight container.

Loving daylights – more Steelers day games

An accessible, family-friendly approach is the aim of the game for the Counties Manukau Steelers’ 2026 NPC campaign.

According to the team’s recently released schedule, there will be more afternoon matches at Navigation Homes Stadium. This should help Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union (CMRFU) to nurture its grass roots, CEO Chad Shepherd expects.

“Our home games are where our community

comes together, where our players draw their energy, and where we continue to build something special. We are committed to elevating the in-stadium experience – creating an environment that is vibrant [and] family-friendly,” he says.

“We want our community to feel proud, connected, and part of every moment. When our stand and banks are full and our people are behind us, there is no better place in provincial rugby.”

Kicking off on August 1

at 2.05pm, the Steelers’ regular season begins and ends in Pukekohe, facing (respectively) Taranaki and Hawke’s Bay.

However, effectively every game can be at home, even when the team is on the road – for the first time in 30 years, NPC clashes will screen free to air. In addition to live games on Sky Sport, the competition will stream on TVNZ+ with some games also on TVNZ 1.

Recently re-signed Steelers’ coach, Reon Graham, is also pleased about the number of afternoon fixtures, but there will be no easy road to the top of the table.

“The NPC is always a very tough competition regardless of the draw. After a strong end to last year, then falling short in the quarterfinal, we can’t wait to get back out there and make our people proud.”

The Farah Palmer Cup and Heartland Championship schedules will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

CHILD’S PLAY

Underlining its commitment to grow talent locally, CMRFU is continuing the Junior Rugby Fee Subsidy Programme, intended to make rugby more affordable.

Launched in 2024, the initiative has supported thousands of junior registra-

Steelers’ fans can look forward to more afternoon games in Pukekohe, CMRFU CEO Chad Shepherd, announced.

Photo Richard Spranger

tions, resulting in a five per cent increase in player numbers and more teams being formed, the union’s head of community, Matt Megaw, confirmed.

“We’ve delivered $155,000 back to the community and that’ll top $200,000 by the end of the year. Being able to use it on junior rugby specifically is going to support those families in some way.”

This year, the programme is being extended to include all 16 junior clubs across the region, giving more children the opportunity to play rugby and experience its benefits, from building confidence and teamwork to staying active, Megaw said.

“Fees are a barrier, especially in our region. They’re completely zero-fees this year, [this] empowers clubs to make those calls, and kids can just walk in and play –that’s what it’s all about.”

Blues win it for the winger

„ By JON RAWLINSON

The Blues have become the first custodians of new silverware by defeating the Fijian Drua 40–15 at Eden Park.

The Joeli Vidiri Memorial Trophy honours a Blues original, Counties Manukau classic and flying Fijian.

The sons of some of Vidiri’s contemporaries – including Spencer, Clarke and Lam – played key roles in turning a close-fought competition at half time into a decisive win.

In total, Vidiri represented the Steelers 71 times, the Blues (61), Fiji (7) and the All Blacks twice between 1994 and 2001.

“I’m ‘true Blues’ and a Counties man at heart,” he told Times Media’s Rural Living magazine in 2016.

Blues coach Vern Cotter says Vidiri had a skillset that would still see him among the best in the business if he featured in today’s Super

“Joeli means a lot to this club. We watched a tribute video with some of his highlights – it’s emotional to look back, especially for some of the younger guys who haven’t seen much of his life,” he says.

“It inspired and gave them some extra motivation [for the trophy match] as well.”

Cotter, who is set to take up a new role with the Reds next season, is also well known to Steelers and Fiji fans. In addition to other playing and coaching roles, he represented Counties (late 1980s and early ‘90s) and coached the Fijian national team (2020–2023).

A graceful yet powerful outside back, Vidiri was as formidable as his Steelers and Blues teammate, Jonah Lomu. Also much like Lomu, both his playing career and his life were cut short by kidney disease. A champion of Pacific Island rugby, Vidiri would likely have been pleased to see a Super Rugby franchise representing Fiji.

“I think the New Zealand Rugby Union owes a lot to the Pacific Island nations. The number of talented players who’ve come [here] is incredible and any help New Zealand can

offer the islands can only be good for them and the sport.”

After hammering opposition backlines during his playing days, Vidiri became the right man to ask when trying to find the right hammer at Mitre 10 Mega Pukekohe. “I came here as a security guard when they started building, just to help out some mates [former Pukekohe club-mates Dean Littin, Gary Millington and Michael Scott],” he said in 2016. “After that, I stayed on. I really

enjoy meeting people every day and helping them out.”

The Joeli Vidiri Memorial Trophy has been designed to reflect his mixed connections, with symbolic elements of both New Zealand and Fiji. It is up for grabs whenever the Blues and Drua face off in Super Rugby.

Vidiri’s family played a central role in match-day proceedings at Eden Park, including by awarding the trophy to its inaugural holders.

PUZZLE TIME

PUZUP PUZZLE NO. 6

HOW TO PLAY PUZUP® 7X7

• Use only the numbers 1-7, with each number appearing exactly seven times.

• Fill each outlined rectangle with a palindrome (the same number forwards and backwards i.e. 52425 or 1441).

• The numbers in each rectangle must add up to the total shown on the edge of the grid.

• No palindrome may be used more than once.

• Each main diagonal must contain all seven numbers (1-7) once. The centre square is shared by both diagonals and must be the same number.

• Solution on page 63

The puzzles (a webapp) are available online by scanning the QR code and the books are available at Poppies in Howick. PUZUP is suitable for all ages, comes in three sizes, and three difficulty levels.

FIND

PUZZLE TIME

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8201

ACROSS

6. Astonished it’s all in mime? (10).

8. Fellow shown in the advertisement for hand cream (4).

9. Come to grief in the passage (4).

10. At six ring the French girl (5).

11. Climbed the bush (4).

12.Does it show there’s hope for the artist? (5,4).

16. A good hand from a big audience (4,5).

20. Blast the d--- renegade! (4).

22. Why should it be that the show has flopped, love? (3,2).

23. Necessity for a visit (4).

24. At half past he starts packing (4).

25. Be sorry – for having tied the knot? (4,6).

DOWN

1. Drink to get courage (6).

2. Joke the little boy up the tree didn’t like? (3-4).

3. The implement by the snowhut (6).

4. Excused for having fired (3,3).

5. A very presentable gentleman from Hollywood (5).

7. Also muffed in it a second catch (5).

13. The cockney mount is off colour (3).

14. Takes a month to get back into shape, you admit (7).

15. Publication in which the doctor might be interested (5).

17. Not sage – that would inadvisable (6).

18. Raise your eyes to refer to (4,2).

19. Listen out, saying nothing (6).

21. Anyhow, what with the sun, it does melt (5).

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8201

Plant (10)

Meat (4)

Eager (4)

Untied (5) 11. Midday (4) 12. Reserve supply (9) 16. Doctor (9)

20. Ruffian (4)

22. Shaver (5)

23. Revel (4) 24. Region (4) 25. Nationality (10)

Puzzle answers on page 62

View (6)

Boat (7)

Boost (6)

Amble (6)

Web: www.warrenarnet.co.nz Facebook: @warrenarnetltd

PAUL VOORBURG

Paul Voorburg | 021 029 05733

paul voorburg@bayleys co.nz BAYLEYS

SURVEYORS

Land Subdivision

• Property&TitleInvestigation

• FarmPlans & Drone Surveys Resource Consent Applications Ph (09)238 6369 www.madsen-lawrie.co.nz

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We buy estate lots and houselots of furniture

Also ask about our comprehensive clearout packages

We are kiwi owned with 35years experience.

Please Contact Bruce: Phone: 09 532 9204 Mobile: 027 479 8942

Retail Shop: Transit Traders Ltd

10 Gordon Road, Ōtāhuhu, Auckland www transitraders co nz

PUBLIC

NOTICE

GARAGE SALE

8am-10.30am Sat April 18

Furniture, household goods, books, toys, Op Shop. Pukekohe Anglican Church, cnr Queen St & Wesley St Cash only, no Eftpos

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

SU DOKU P58

948 5 3217 6

3 7 6918 2 45 125 4763 8 9

69238 5 714

5 37 6 4 1 9 28

48 12 97 563

769 8 234 5 1

2 53164897

81 4 7 596 3 2

PUZUP 7X7 P57

QUICK NO. 8201

BLANKS P57

Across - 6, Aspidistra. 8, Veal. 9, Keen. 10, Loose. 11, Noon. 12, Stockpile. 16, Physician. 20, Thug. 22, Razor. 23, Orgy. 24, Area. 25, Portuguese. Down - 1, Aspect. 2, Pinnace. 3, Fillip. 4, Stroll. 5, Haven. 7, Capon. 13, Ivy. 14, Octopus. 15, Chart. 17, Hazard. 18, Sprout. 19, August. 21, Grape.

CRYPTIC NO. 8201

Across - 6, Speech-less. 8, Chap. 9, Trip. 10, VI-O-la. 11, Rose. 12, Still life. 16, Full house. 20, D-rat. 22, How-s-O. 23, Call. 24, Pa(st)-pa(cking). 25, Wish undone. Down - 1, Spirit. 2, Leg-pull. 3, S-hovel. 4, Let off. 5, Oscar. 7, La-s-so. 13, ‘Ill. 14, Con-ceD-e. 15, Organ. 17, Un-wise 18, Look up. 19, Silent (anag.). 21, Thaw-s.

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Pukekohe Floral Art Club

We are holding our 70th anniversary celebration for past and present members from 11.30am to 2pm on April 14 at the Franklin Baptist Church, Victoria Street, Pukekohe. Contact Louise Lauer for more information. lauer@xtra.co.nz.

Papakura Men’s Probus Club

Join like-minded retirees for fun and fellowship, on the last Friday of every month at 10am to listen to guest speakers and hear about planned outings and activities. Chatting over tea/ coffee and biscuits. Enquiries JP (John) 021-583100. Meet at Papakura Club, 5 Croskery Road, Papakura.

Waiuku Community Art Group

This convivial and informal art group meets each Thursday from 9.30am to 1pm at the Revive Church, James Bright Lane, Waiuku. An open art session, no tuition, just bring your art tools to sketch, or paint. Tables and chairs are provided. Feel welcome to “drop in”. Gold coin donation. Contact Peter Budd 09 235 5706.

Runciman Tennis Club

Our small, friendly country club offers social or competitive tennis. Come along and play social tennis at 29 Pitt Road, Drury. Sessions are held from 9am to noon on Tuesday mornings for all players, from 9.30am to noon Wednesday mornings in summer for ladies, 5.30pm until dark on Wednesday

evenings for men, and from 5pm until dark on Thursday nights for social night. Casual players are welcome. The first two visits are free. We welcome all levels of players, from beginners or returning players, to experienced players. Check out www.sporty.co.nz/ runcimantennis or text 021 931 396 for more details.

BPW Franklin

BPW Franklin is a vibrant group of women who meet monthly for dinner, engaging speakers, and empowering conversations. As part of BPW NZ, we advocate for gender equality and support women’s growth through networking, leadership, and education. Join us to connect, be inspired, and make a meaningful impact together. www.bpwfranklin.org.nz.

Selwyn Seniors Social Group

Feeling lonely, finding it difficult to get out? Our small, friendly groups could be the answer. We enjoy gentle exercise, fun activities, scones, chatter, and plenty of laughter. You can join us Tuesday or Friday morning 9am to 12pm, at Crossroads Methodist Church lounge, 25 Broadway, Papakura. Phone: Nikki 022 477 9575.

Wanted to buy collectables Bric a Brac

Downsizing? Wanting to sell inherited lots? Cleaning out or moving? I buy anything collectable, fine china, ornaments, stamps, postcards, old toys, small furniture items, old kitchenware, Bric a Brac. Anything collectable what have you Travel to view Cash paid contact John 021966674

Send your free community events to info@times.co.nz. Due to limited space, we can’t guarantee every listing will run. This section is reserved for not-for-profit community groups.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

POLITICIANS COUNCILLORS:

• Andy Baker 021 283 2222

- Franklin Ward Councillor

• Daniel Newman 021 518 796

- Manurewa-Papakura Ward Councillor

• Matt Winiata 027 261 6354

- Manurewa-Papakura Ward Councillor

FRANKLIN LOCAL BOARD:

• Alan Cole 021 923 719

– Chairperson

• Amanda Hopkins 027 216 2452

– Deputy Chairperson

• Malcolm Bell 021 0228 2267

– JP - Deputy Chairperson

• Gary Holmes 027 256 2849

– Board Member

• Andrew Kay 027 216 1819

– Board Member

• Alix Bonnington 027 216 4698

– Board Member

• Hunter Hawker 027 238 1942

– Board Member

• Lesieli Oliver 027 237 8646

– Board Member

• Merritt Watson 027 243 7277

– Board Member

MPs:

• Judith Collins Papakura MP judith.collinspapakura@parliament.govt.nz

• Andrew Bayly Port Waikato MP Andrew.Bayly@parliament.govt.nz

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE

• Terry Stanbridge 027 320 0013

• Stuart Britnell 027 475 6251

• Jean (Jofejean) Kiely JP 021 180 6743

• Anthony Searle 027 474 7593

• Roger Goulstone 021 180 1472

• Kamaldeep Singh 022 045 0077

• Jane (Hilary) Hancock 021 963 603

• Paul Brown 09 238 6827

• Heather Maloney MNZM 027 723 5328

• Trinity Jourdain 021 269 6138

• Joanna Blomfield 09 238 8188

• Jim (James) Carpenter 022 074 7017

• Dianne Glenn ONZM 027 428 4779

• Dr Siham El-Kafafi 021 323 662

• Sheryl Hazelwood 027 411 0584

• Alex Robinson 09 238 7653

• Kevin Birch 09 237 0780

• Helen Pulman 027 632 0924

• Peter Amies 027 298 6437

• Marie Appleton MNZM 09 238 5545

BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONS

• Pukekohe Business Association 09 910 0137

• Waiuku Business & Development Association 09 235 6231

• Clevedon Community & Business

Association 09 292 8046

• Manurewa Business Association 09 2695252

• Papakura Business Association 022 099 7331

CHARITY SHOPS

PUKEKOHE:

• Franklin Hospice Shop, 29 King St, Pukekohe 09 238 5082

• Habitat for Humanity Op Shop, 134 King St, Pukekohe 09 222 5060

• SPCA Op Shop, 5 Seddon Lane, Pukekohe 09 239 3201

• Pukekohe Anglican Op Shop, cnr Queen St & Wesley St 09 238 7228

• Salvation Army Family Store, 7 King St, Pukekohe 09 238 6800

• St John Op Shop, 4b Harris St, Pukekohe 09 238 7000

WAIUKU:

• St Andrew’s Op Shop, 79 Queen St, Waiuku 09 235 2238

• St John Waiuku Store, 4 Court St, Waiuku 09 235 8954

TUAKAU:

• Mai Light House Op Shop, 5 George St, Tuakau 09 2386233

• Tuakau Union Parish Op Shop, 5 Madill St, Tuakau 09 237 8098

PAPAKURA:

• SPCA Op Shop, 178 Greet South Rd, Papakura 09 299 6671

• Salvation Army Family Store, 69 O’Shannessey St, Papakura 09 299 7404

• St John Op Shop, 138 Great South Road, Papakura 09 296 2333

• St Vincent de Paul, 275 Great South Road, Papakura  09 296 5052

• Papakura Anglican Op Shop, 40 Coles Cres, Papakura 09 299 8086

EMERGENCY SERVICES

• Ambulance 111

• Fire 111

• Police 111 Non emergency: 105

• Franklin Local Board 09 237 1317

• Civil Defense 0800 22 22 00

TRANSPORT:

• Auckland Transport 0800 10 30 80

• AT – HOP 09

•

•

COUNCIL COMPLAINTS:

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

• Pukekohe Netball Centre –pukekohenetball@xtra.co.nz

• Tuakau Netball Club 09 238 9321

• Tuakau Rugby Football & Sports Club 09 236 8296

• Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union 09 237 0033

• Counties Manukau Hockey Association 09 238 4333

• Pukekohe East Indoor Bowling Club 021 1179632

SERVICED APARTMENTS AVAILABLE

Enjoy the ease of assisted living in a serviced apartment at Possum Bourne Village. Centrally located in the heart of the village, getting around is a breeze with activities and amenities at your doorstep. With daily chef-prepared meals, housekeeping and more, living in a serviced apartment frees up your time for what really matters.

Serviced apartments priced from $480,000*.