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September/October 2018

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IN THE FRAME

PUTTING DoWN

new roots PETER’S DoMAIN

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Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 1

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september/october nEXPOS & FESTIVALS franklin positive aging expo September 28, 9.30am-3pm, PIA Centre, 57 Ward St, Pukekohe Unless the Government moves the goalposts, many of us will be planning to down tools and retire once we achieve the big six five. But what then? After working so hard for so many years, we deserve to make the most of our retirement and that’s where this fantastic expo comes into its own. Whether we’re going to be gone fishin’, cruising the world or simply enjoying more time with family, this event offers plenty of ways to spend our golden days. For more information, see facebook.com/franklin. positiveageing. auckland heritage festival 2018 September 29 – October 14, times and locations (Auckland wide) vary Celebrating the heritage of the people of Auckland (Tamaki Makaurau), this festival comprises of more than 200 events throughout the Super City. Exploring our varied cultural roots wherever they may be, from the Bharatiya Mandir Hindu temple, to Eden Park and Karangahape Road, it includes everything from exhibitions, walks, talks and tours, to a vintage market day and more. For a complete schedule, see heritagefestival.co.nz.

and fashion await all keen to hear Augustine designer, Kelly Coe, during an event expected to be a highlight of the local social calendar. More information is available via pukekohepark.co.nz.

a humble, little bean that’s long been delighting the palates of people with a sweet tooth or two as well as those who think bitter is better. For details, visit chocolatecoffeeshow.co.nz.

home front October 1 - December 8, Papakura Museum, Accent Point Building, 209 Great South Rd, Papakura Marking 100 years of the end of ‘the war to end all wars’, this exhibition seeks to ensure those who gave their lives on the world’s battlegrounds aren’t the only ones we don’t forget. Focused on life during the First World War in New Zealand, Home Front reveals how communities came together as the world was being pulled apart. For more information, see papakuramuseum.org.nz.

Celebrate Spring October 6-7, 10am-4pm, Auckland Botanic Gardens, 102 Hill Rd, The Gardens It’s a marvellous day for a dragon dance, or Chinese calligraphy, music and more, for that matter. Now that spring has taken hold, Auckland Botanic Gardens is celebrating the season the Chinese way with a whole host of cultural demonstrations and activities on offer. For further information, see aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz.

waikato home & garden Show October 4-7, Claudelands Arena, Brooklyn Rd, Hamilton What’s hot in Waikato? Head on down to Hamilton to find out as the ‘city of the future’ showcases how we Kiwis love to live. One of the largest annual home expos, this event is well worth a visit. See waikatohomeshow.co.nz for details. the Chocolate & Coﬀee Show October 6-7, 9am-5pm, The Cloud, Queens Wharf, 89 Quay St, Auckland City Featuring the crème de la crème of artisan chocolatiers and coffee roasters, this event is a huge celebration of

girls on track September 29, 6.30-10.30pm, Pukekohe Park Events Centre, 222-250 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe An evening of cocktails

Craig

Trudy

Brendon

Sue

Stephanie

021 998 605

021 898 483

027 238 6660

027 527 0094

027 246 7911

2 — Rural Living — September/October Moore2018McCardle Alderlieste Ashby Boyce

Hunter

Utatao

027 482 2488

auckland pet & animal expo October 13-14, 10am-5pm, ASB Showgrounds, 217 Greenlane West, Epsom If animal lovers ‘Dolittle’ else this month, they should drop by ASB Showgrounds to check out this expo, one which really has gone to the dogs... and cats and birds and, well, you get the picture. For details see petanimalexpo.co.nz.

n COUNTRY CALENDAR Calf Club, agricultural, pet & Country life Days Dates, times & locations vary What happens when thousands of little ones take their lambs, kids and calves to school? The result is a fun-filled day as country schools celebrate their rural roots while teaching students many an important lesson along the way. To view details of events coming up over the next 3-4 weeks, see our listings on pages 20-21.

Hadley

Pierce

027 480 2741

Graeme

Darren

021 770 733

021 676 004

Willsonwww.ruralliving.co.nz Szaszy

Community Calendar TUAKAU 22 George St, Tuakau | bus. 09 237 8310 | fax. 09 237 8331 | www.barfoot.co.nz/tuakau

equidays 2018 October 13-15, Mystery Creek Events Centre, 125 Mystery Creek Rd, Ohaupo Equidays are near again! With the horsey set ready to descend on Mystery Creek in October, it’s time to jump to it and snap up tickets to this amazing equestrian celebration. Featuring everything from demonstrations, competitions and other entertainment, to a vast range of exhibitors, Equidays is the mane-stay of equine calendar. Details via equidays. co.nz.

n MUSIC, MUSICALS, DANCE & THEATRE russian tales September 27, from 7.30pm, Auckland Town Hall, Queen St, Auckland City Sick of rushin’ around? Then you should be ‘Russian’ into the city this month to sit back, relax and enjoy music by two of Russia’s greatest composers, Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov. Details about this and other shows by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra are available via apo.co.nz/whats-on. goldilocks on trial October 3-7, times vary, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Dr, Papakura Blondes may have more fun but breaking and entering is no laughing matter. What is sure to have us laughing, however, is this show by Hawkins Youth Theatre Company as the cast explores what would have happened if old Goldi met her comeuppance. This is one fairy story which may not end ‘happily ever after’. Details via hawkinstheatre.co.nz. Divas & Divos October 11, 11am-1pm, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Dr, Papakura What do Joan Sutherland, Maria Callas, Pavarotti, Caruso and Mario Lanza all have in common? Well, for one thing their work is set to be featured during this

Scott

Kevin

027 210 8887

027 497 8223

www.ruralliving.co.nz Lim McElhinney

spectacular by Operatunity! In addition, audiences will learn more – including anecdotes – from some of the greatest singers to ever grace the stage. For more information, visit operatunity.co.nz.

artweek auckland October 6-14, times vary, venues Auckland-wide For art’s sake, it’s time to get out and check out a rich range of creative expression during the Super City’s annual Art Week. Vist artweekauckland.co.nz.

nFAMILY FUN

Il Divo October 27, Spark Arena, Mahuhu Cres, Auckland City As part of their Timeless world tour, this multi-national vocal quartet is set to entertain Aucklanders. With more than 30 million albums sold and in excess of 50 number one records, Il Divo has become widely acclaimed, sharing microphones with such superstars as Barbra Streisand and Celine Dion. More information via ildivo.com.

n ARTS like a Boss September 22 - November 10, Franklin Arts Centre, 12 Massey Ave, Pukekohe Timed to coincide with the 125th anniversary of women’s suffrage in New Zealand, this exhibition sees the work of contemporary painters take centre stage. Details via facebook.com/ FranklinArtsCentre.

Debbie

Maria

020 438 5958

021 885 703

n FUNDRAISERS franklin Bride of the Year October 5, 7-10pm, PIA Hall, 59 Ward St, Pukekohe Here come the... brides! The gladdest of rags will be on show during this event with funds raised set to help Karioitahi Surf Life Rescue continue to protect our community. See pukekohe.org.nz.

n SPORT, FITNESS, RACING & MOTORING

Like a Boss

Courtney Macpherson

Dr Seuss’ the Cat in the hat September 22, 10-11am & 1.30-2.30pm, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Dr, Papakura The Cat in the Hat is back! During this stage show, one of Dr Seuss’ most loveable troublemakers makes work for idle hands on a rainy day. Despite the objections of their straight-laced fish, Sally and her brother embark on mischievous mirth-making until things get just a little out of control. See hawkinstheatre.co.nz for details.

Simon

Macrae

027 420 2540 Tuakau

pedal4prostate October 7, 7am-1pm, Hampton Downs Motor Sport Park, Hampton Downs Rd, Te Kauwhata Open to all riders aged 16 and older of all levels of fitness and experience, this team event is designed to raise funds to fuel the Prostate Cancer Foundation. To do your bit towards such a good turn, see pedal4prostate.org.nz for more information, to donate or to enter.

Murray Nick Rural Living — September/October —3 Dawson 2018 Bates Sales Manager Branch Manager

From the editor... chance to hear those plans and share your perspective. Whether local views will be heeded will have to be seen but it’s a bit like Lotto – you’ve got to be in to win! Of course, even if some views are taken on board, who knows when, and if, we will see results! However, readers who have strong views still have time to catch one of the last few gatherings which are: ◆ 10am-2pm, Saturday, September 22, Auckland Council Manukau Civic Building, 33 Manukau Station Rd, Puhinui Room ◆ 10am-2pm, Tuesday, October 2, Pukekohe Library, 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe ◆ 2pm-7pm, Wednesday, October 3, Sir Edmund Hillary Library, 209 Great South Road, Papakura

by restaurants and shops. It was also managed by Kiwis, who went out of their way to make us welcome. This was not a sight-seeing trip – we have been to these parts on various occasions. It was all about relaxation and recharging my journo brain and keyboard fingers. It worked a treat although one week just wasn’t enough. We have now decided to return and stay longer next year, something I can heartily recommend to others who need a cocktail of sun, heated swimming pool, beach walks, gastronomic delights, lazy ferry cruising and, naturally, a little shopping too! However, once back home, it was also back into the daily traffic fray but I was pleased to see that Auckland Council has partnered with the transport planners and is in the process of delivering a series of information days outlining structure plans for Opaheke/Drury and Pukekohe/Paerata as well as the transport networks needed to support future growth. Because such planning is designed to show what should be built where and to consider both the shape of the land and the aspirations of the community, this is a

Helen Perry, Editor

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bet there are heaps of readers out there who, like me, hang out all winter for a holiday in the sun and then, when they can’t stand Auckland rain one minute longer, head for warmer climes. I always manage to romp through June, struggle as July sets in and then moan throughout August. By the beginning of September it may officially be spring, but there’s often a biting wind, the last of the frosts and still plenty of rain to dampen spirits. That’s when I’m outta here! This year, man about the house, sisterin-law and, of course, moi headed for Noosaville on Australia’s Sunshine Coast where we not only enjoyed warmer climes, a laid back lifestyle and many dining experiences but also caught up with old friends who go back to school and early working days. Our extremely spacious apartment at the Colonial Resort, where accommodation overlooks either the lovely pool area or the river front, was perfectly located for our needs. On Gympie Terrace (with vehicle access from Elizabeth Street) it was pretty well in the heart of Noosaville, flanked

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EMBRACING THE GooD LIFE: Uplifting home and family to transplant them in what might be called ‘the wop-wops’ is no mean feat but Tom and Sarah O’Neil have tackled a monumental move which has involved transporting a 1930’s bungalow from the Bay of Plenty to a Franklin cliff top. They face a huge renovation project and are also getting stuck into a garden of 29 large raised beds which will soon be packed with vegetables. Read their story (likely to be part one) on pages 24-25.

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Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 5 KAT5300

6 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

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Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 7 KAT6037

CITY FARMER –

takes stock Among the rolling hills of Franklin, spring sees plenty of little lambs and heaving herds of calves populating the landscape. Yet, even in the heart of our largest metropolis, you’ll ﬁnd more than just as taste of country life as JON RAWLINSON explains.

ornwall Park farm manager, Peter Maxwell, has been hoofing it about the property of late, kept on his toes ensuring this shop window of rural New Zealand showcases how Kiwis make a living from the land. “We have counters on the gates and estimate we have approximately four million visitors each year,” he says. “This time of year is very busy time with plenty of people wanting to see the lambs and calves.” However, should visitors fail to take heed, they could be set for a motherload of trouble, he warns. “Cows are very maternal and protective of their young so, at this time of the year, not long after lambing and calving, we have plenty of signs to help ensure visitors from all over the world understand the importance of keeping their distance. Staff are conscious to remind them too.”

8 — Rural Living — September/October 2018 Photo Wayne Martin

In August, two people were hurt at Manukau’s Totara Park as a result of a ‘cow attack’. Peter says this proved a timely reminder about the importance of giving maternal cows plenty of space. “We did have a case about 10 years ago when a chap – who came over a style before we were open – was injured. It is very rare but, because it can happen, we do everything we can to ensure both the animals and visitors are safe.” Despite Auckland’s growing urbanisation, the farm – established in the early 1900s and set over 81ha, with a further 44ha at neighbouring One Tree Hill Domain – has avoided becoming a concrete jungle due to the incredible foresight of its founder. “It’s from the Sir John Logan Campbell estate and administered by the Cornwall Park Trust Board,” Peter explains. “Part of the trust deed was that the park would remain as it was because he wanted it to

serve as ‘the lungs of Auckland’. While it was once on the outskirts of the city, now it gives a sense of serenity and peace and quiet in the middle of an ever increasingly busy city and busy world.” Originally from Feilding, Bruce has lived near the park since taking up his current role more than a decade ago. The experienced sheep and beef farmer says the Cornwall Park farm presents its own, distinct challenges. “It provides some unique experiences, but there are big rewards. We have to be good [with] the public,” he says. “The job gives us a wider perspective and understanding of how little many people know about farming, about where wool and meat come from. We see ourselves as a bit of a shop window – this might be the first time many have ever even seen a sheep or cow. We do a lot of educating, explaining what we do and why. Sometimes, this makes us think about what we’re doing and www.ruralliving.co.nz

“Part of the trust deed was that the park would remain as it was because he wanted it to serve as ‘the lungs of Auckland’. While it was once on the outskirts of the city, now it gives a sense of serenity and peace and quiet in the middle of an ever increasingly busy city and busy world.”

trIalS No trIBulatIoN

can reinforce what we are doing already.” With approximately 60 pedigree Simmental cattle and 600 Perendale/Texel cross ewes and lambs to wrangle, Peter and his team have their hands full. “Years ago, we had trouble from buying in stock which could be a bit wild, but Simmentals are extremely quiet, very docile. Because they’re born here and live their lives here, they are used to being near crowds of people,” he explains. “Most of the lambs are sold – we can’t keep them all! This year, lambing went well, we were quite happy with it. This breed is pretty hardy.” The farm is certainly not a petting zoo, Peter says, but profitability is not its primary aim either. www.ruralliving.co.nz

“With a farm this size, we can’t really make a profit but we try to have a solid commercial base and defer costs. For one thing, the park is grazed; having the sheep here is a grass control measure, otherwise there would be a big cost involved in mowing it. While most of the heifer calves are retained, a few steers, any surplus cows, cull ewes and many of the lambs are sold for meat. “Our kicker is that we get a premium for our service bulls, which are sold as yearlings,” Peter adds. “We expect every cow to have a calf and every ewe to have lambs – there are no passengers here, everything has to be productive. The trustees want us to demonstrate good farming practice and a high level of animal welfare and we’re proud to be able to deliver that.”

Herding sheep may be a dog of a job but it makes for one heck of a sport. Cornwall Park farm manager, Peter Maxwell, is gearing up for a busy season during which even those who win by a country mile will do so by a nose. Although TV’s A Dog’s Show may have disappeared from the air years ago, sheep dog trials are alive and well with a number of competitions on the calendar within the borders of the Super City. “I have competed in the past but only at a very amateur level,” Peter says. “My main involvement these days is in helping train dogs and running trials. I’m trying to train a dog for the Clevedon A&P Show now and I’ll also be helping put up the yards and work the sheep beforehand.” In addition to the upcoming Clevedon A&P Show (November 17-18), Peter will lend a hand at Ambury Park Farm Day in Mangere and the Papakura Wairamarama Sheep Dog Club annual trials in February. Unfortunately, trials have been absent from the Franklin A&P Show (now known as the Counties Power Pukekohe Show) for a number of years. One of the sport’s biggest events has to be one of its smallest, Auckland A&P Association’s indoor trials at the Royal Easter Show. “There are a few trials held indoors but this one is pretty big. There were 180,000 visitors last year so it’s hugely popular. The course is tiny in comparison to outdoor shows; it’s a bit more of a presentation [of the sport].” With so many people looking on, top dogs will need cool heads to claim rich rewards over Easter; and it’s never ideal to trial an old dog with new tricks. “Guys who are really good at trials train them from pups, from about eight weeks old. The Easter Show can be pretty noisy, which does present a challenge. A good dog needs to be willing to please, easy going and good with people so they can handle crowds.” Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 9

Readers response

much AppreciAted Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

COUNTRY LAD

n last month’s column I wrote that our lovely mare Willowbrook had to be euthanised and was then buried at Alabar Stud. I mention this because so many people have contacted me to express their sorrow. Two people even phoned with offers of mares for sale or the opportunity to borrow a mare to continue our breeding programme. However, I hardly have a breeding programme and I have only ever had one brood mare at a time with Willowbrook being our second. Our first was Eliza Doolittle who gave us lots of fun and was the catalyst for becoming so attached to harness racing. Over our years of involvement we haven’t had a great champion but we have had 27 wins to date with some horses still to race. Our first horse to race was called Henry Higgins. He gave us just three wins, two being at Alexandra Park, two weeks in a row – very exciting! The best from our breeding programme was Elsudoku who in 33 starts, had eight wins, two seconds and four thirds. He was very unlucky in several other races.

Filly, Betterbrook as a foal newly born – today she is proving herself on the trotting track. Photo Wayne Martin

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His trainer, Geoffrey Small really liked him and got the best out of him. Elsudoku was sired by one of Geoff’s top horses Elsu hence the name Elsudoku, a combination of Elsu and Sudoku, a numbers game! So far, the progeny of Willowbrook have won seven times and the trainer of Betterbrook, Adrian Matthews, is looking to make it seven – fingers crossed. At present we are preparing our property for sale so it’s all go at home. We have really enjoyed living here and love both the house and gardens, so parting with it will be sad – my wife Reay has talked more extensively about that in her column. The real estate agent advised that before listing the property we needed a revaluation and a pool fence permit (now done). When I phoned Auckland Council the receptionist was very helpful, making the necessary appointments to have these matters attended too. While waiting on the line I asked her to connect me afterwards to the person responsible for arranging repair of potholes in the road as we had a rather big and deep hole in the middle of our narrow street which I seemed to have hit every time I drove up and down Speedy Road. I then spoke to a very polite gentleman who said it would be attended to as soon as possible. I know we often complain about council but in this case it was all credit to council – the pothole was repaired within two days! And, with that it’s – Go the All Blacks!

10 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

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Alta Dream Lodge

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ifestyle extraordinaire, your spectacular opportunity to purchase a stunning 7.7ha boutique equestrian breeding property. Absolutely brand new, on gentle land, close to Waiau Pa Village and beautifully presented. Stylish gates take you through to the driveway up to the sparkling Landmark home where the word stylish is so obvious. Every care and attention to detail has been taken, making the home a real find for the lifestyle and entertaining connoisseur. The open plan living area opens out to warm patios on both sides of the home, the north facing one is very luxurious, and from here you can gaze out over the land and the incredible stable complex. The kitchen, with its exquisite lights is a modern dream, complete with a remarkable butlers’ pantry. The main kitchen bench is a statement for entertainment. From here the hostess is always close to the guests but can have an eye on the pulse! Easy entertaining was always top of the list when the vendors were designing the home. The choice of accessories is in keeping with the home with wooden flooring and elegant drapes throughout. There is a smaller lounge to the north as

www.ruralliving.co.nz

well, also with a gas fire, making this a very cosy winter room and close to the kitchen, is a clever bedroom which is used as an office. The master bedroom opens to the patio as well and is a beautiful space to escape to! Moving now to the stable complex where you have an incredible insight into the equestrian breeding industry. Five magnificent stables each with their own separate water supply are within the first barn, including a tack room and a smaller unit where the assistant vet will sleep during foaling time. You could eat your breakfast from the floor – it is that spotless! The north facing land is well raced and has specialist fencing throughout, again all brand new. The property is definitely a “stand alone” specialist lifestyle block but will lend itself to all equestrian disciplines. The sheds of course, would suit all other sorts of applications! If you are a discerning and entrepreneurial purchaser, then this is the spot for you! Close to good schools and beaches, and only 20 minutes to the Bloodstock Centre at Karaka. Enjoy being part of one of the remaining village communities – your family will thrive on it! Inspection will be rewarded!

TENDER Closes 4pm, 19 September at Papakura office

VI E W I N G www.barfoot.co.nz/761108

cherry cooper 021 955 141 / 09 232 0000 c.cooper@barfoot.co.nz Papakura 09 298 8029 barfoot.co.nz

Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 11 KAT6199

Over

the gate

robridge Equine First, Clevedon, has built a sound reputation for its equine-related events and workshops, in particular, its emphasis on equine assisted therapy. Owner, Kathy Marx set up the facility in 2009 after a brief illness in 2007 saw her spend a lot of time with her horses, the peace they generated helping in her healing process. Realising she was calmer and more relaxed, she felt sure other people could benefit from the same experience and help. Then, in 2008 she was, by chance, invited to an event introducing Eagala – (the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association). She enrolled, trained and became a certified Eagala Equine Specialist. “I worked in this role until 2013 then, through reading books by Linda Kohanov and Shelley Rosenberg, I discovered Eponaquest Worldwide which I felt could expand my knowledge in this field.” Kathy invited Shelley Rosenberg to come and introduce Eponaquest to New Zealand. Shelley agreed and as a result Kathy began a new journey studying Eponaquest methods in equine assisted therapy and embarking on an apprenticeship travelling and studying with four other New Zealanders and two Australians under Linda and Shelley’s tutorship, in Arizona, Australia and then New Zealand. In 2014 she graduated as a Certified Eponaquest Instructor – with a Riding Focus Instructor (RFI) qualification. Today she is focused on the services provided at Arobridge Equine First in the Ness Valley. Can you explain in brief what equine assisted therapy is? Equine Assisted Therapy is working with horses to offer a great alternative for people who don’t respond well to ‘talking therapy’. It is active, outdoors and very stimulating. Horses can bring about an emotional response to a situation which enables people to recognise it as valuable information and learn the skills

12 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

Kathy Marx

Arobridge Equine First required to make one small change in their life, leading to further changes when required. Horses don’t talk, they use body language to communicate within the herd and during interaction with humans. By observing and developing an understanding of the horses silent communication helps us to: ◆◆Trust our own intuition and awareness ◆◆Build emotional strength and agility ◆◆Set effective boundaries ◆◆Body scans – use the body as a sensing device ◆◆Recognise authenticity – true self and false self ◆◆Roles within a herd in comparison to our human role(s) ◆◆Recognise and move beyond conditioned behaviours and thought patterns ◆◆Develop essential skills for building authentic community Who benefits from this type of Equine Assisted Therapy? It can help Individuals, families, teams, groups, schools; anyone with a problem or issue. What exactly is Eponaquest? Eponaquest is made up of educational programmes, workshops and private sessions which employ horses in teaching people leadership, assertiveness, personal empowerment, relationship, team building, intuition, and emotional fitness skill. Whether you are interested in human development or equine facilitated learning, or both, the Eponaquest approach allows people to experience what it means to truly thrive in life, offering tools to open other worlds of creativity, insight, and empowerment, expanding one’s vision, helping to reconnect to nature, to the herd and to the community. Did you grow up within the equestrian community – pony club, hunt, or perhaps, horse in the back paddock? If

not how did you end up following this equine path? No, I didn’t go to pony club, hunt or have horses until I was 48 years old… I ride for fun and for the great partnership and relationship I have with my horses. I teach and train humans and horses in focused riding. What are your particular qualifications in relation to the work you do at Arobridge? I am a certified Eponaquest Instructor (RFI), Eagala trained Equine Specialist, Meditation Coach How much of your job is down to training and how much is just good, old fashioned ‘horse sense’? Training is always important with natural horsemanship, where possible, to ensure the safety of our clients as many of the EAL sessions are done on the ground and no riding is required. In the RFI sessions, Eponaquest-focused riding techniques are used. How many therapists do you have working at Arobridge and do they all provide the same type of guidance or do the same type of work? Arobridge has five facilitators. As well as myself there is Carol Drew, trained counsellor NZAC, counselling supervision, group facilitation, certified Eagala (Mental Health), Karitane honours (1974), celebrant, hospice (3 years); Wendy Nicholas, Eagala Equine Specialist, naturopath, medical herbalist, qualified practitioner of Arvigo Mayan Abdominal Therapy, holistic pelvic care, massage and reiki, yoga teacher; Lorraine Blackwell, Arobridge herd manager, whose experience with horses spans more than 30 years, now working with the Arobridge Kaimanawas in Equine Assisted Therapy. Lorraine is currently training to become a NZFE Level 3 coach. Arobridge Hoofcamp www.ruralliving.co.nz

Pukekohe

Photo Wayne Martin

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facilitator and ?Hooves and Hero’s Instructor; Caroline Walker, Arobridge Hoofcamp facilitator, has assisted in many Arobridge events, has recently completed a National Certificate in Mental Health and Addiction Support and completed a massage course through the NZ College of Massage. How many horses is Arobridge home to and do you keep any particular breed? The main breed is Kaimanawa and we have eight wild horses adopted from various musters between 2007 and 2018. Also Cherokee (Apaloosa), Cherry (Pinto), Diva (part Arab). Are there any special qualities a horse needs to be a good ‘therapist’? No, although I like the Kaimanawa as they are very instinctual. Rural Living understands you also host Hoofcamps what exactly are these and when are they held? The Hoofcamps are school holiday programmes held at Arobridge for children who either adopt a horse for the week or bring their own. Each Hoofcamp has various activities from feeding, grooming, care and welfare,and caters for beginners to a more advanced riding ability where focused riding is taught. There is lots of fun and games throughout the week until Friday when family and friends are invited to a celebration parade to finish. www.ruralliving.co.nz

You have a programme called Hooves & Heroes what is this and who does it involve? The Hooves & Hero’s members are a group of children who wish to continue learning the skills taught at Hoofcamp. What other activities do you offer if any? We also offer workshops: ◆◆10 x one-day workshops being a mixture of Eponaquest, Eagala , Arobridge and meditation with horses ◆◆Corporate team building using the roles within the herd ◆◆For all teachers and healers, mental health workers, social workers, care givers and nurses ◆◆Mother and daughter days working with our Kaimanawa mares and their foals ◆◆Animal communication ◆◆All workshops are due to start in November 2018. These will be advertised in “Events” on Arobridge Equine First – see www.arobridge.com If you could raise any animal or grow any plant what and why? Kaimanawa horses – they are brilliant therapy horses. If you could be Prime Minister for a day what is the first thing you would do and why? I would provide funding for an Equine Assisted Therapy Facility complete with training facilities for horses and equine

facilitators to help people help themselves through the magic of horses. If you could ask any three people (living or dead) to diner who and why? Queen Elizabeth 11 as she understands and is supportive of the ability of horses to help people, and I am sure we would have some very in-depth and interesting conversations. Sir Ray Avery as he is always forward thinking, is genuine in wanting to help humanity, and is influential enough to help find funding or put me on to the right people to help brand and grow the face of Equine Assisted Therapies A World War 1 Veteran of NZ Mounted Rifles to explain and give an insight of the procurement, training and life of an Army horse (Kaimanawa) used in combat during the First World War.

In November 2017 Arobridge hosted a picnic for Tourettes NZ where its horses were able to work with some of the Tourettes members for a few hours. To everyone’s surprise the tics suffered by some were reduced, and in many cases gone altogether, while they were working with the horses. Arobridge was given a small segment on the recent television screening of Living with Tourettes.

Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 13

horse sense prevAils At AwArds The Wright person was in the right place with just the right idea recently. Wellington’s Holly Wright is hopeful her saddle for the disabled (known as Contak) will help ensure many more people worldwide will experience the world from a new vantage point. “I am delighted to have won the 2018 James Dyson National Award,” she says. “Although involved in recreational riding I had no prior experience in the therapeutic use of horses, but recognised an opportunity to improve safety and therapy benefit through a new saddle design.” Contak focuses on the connection between horse and rider, providing even distribution of the rider’s weight while improving stability and safety. Handles replace reins to accommodate differing abilities and a secondary handle enables aid from an assistant walking alongside. Ms Wright expects to work with RDA (Riding for the Disabled) centres to further refine her invention. The awards’ runners-up also proved that necessity is often the mother of invention. Developed by Massey University student, Georgia Fulton, Sowsense works as an alternative to farrowing crates to protect piglets from being crushed by sows. On the other hand, MEMDO (developed by a team from Victoria University) is a digital system designed to help manage medical drains. For more regarding this year’s inventions, see jamesdysonaward.org. Above: Holly Wright, national winner of the James Dyson Award; below: Georgia Fulton.

14 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

countdown butchers mAke grAde Taking a stab at New Zealand butchery’s ultimate prize is no task for amateurs. While Pukekohe Pak’nSave butcher, James Smith, may not have achieved his dream (at least yet!) of being crowned Alto Butcher of the Year, the Upper North regional winner has still proven himself among the best in the business. After a tightly-fought competition at Auckland City’s Queens Wharf recently, Riki Kerekere from Countdown’s Otahuhu processing plant secured the title. “There are so many people I want to thank,” he says. “It’s not easy to get yourself organised and do all the work for this. You need good people to help you and I’d like to thank all my extended whanau at Countdown.” Meanwhile, it was ‘all White on the night’ among the cream of the industry’s up-and-coming crop as Corey White (also from Countdown’s Otahuhu plant) proved a most effective dark horse. A last minute replacement for another competitor, who was unable to take part, Corey emerged to be named this year’s ANZCO Foods Butcher Apprentice of the Year. Riki and Corey have secured prizes including spots on a World Butchers’ Challenge Study Tour to California and Victorinox knife sets. Head judge, Matt Grimes, says the

Riki Kerekere wins Alto Butcher of the Year

competitions’ standards were extremely high. “During my several years’ involvement in the competition, the standards have improved dramatically,” he says. “I hope competitors carry on doing what they are doing, contests like this are getting them noticed. Win, lose or draw, the butchers have achieved a great deal and should be very proud of themselves.” Read Rural Living’s interview with Tuakau competitor, James Smith, JuneJuly 2018 issue, via ruralliving.co.nz

‘FAre’ Future high tech? High tech solutions will be required to feed the world’s growing population, particularly in light of climate change, Graeme Muller from NZTech believes. “Combining two of New Zealand’s leading sectors, agriculture and technology, shows just how we can improve farming, food production and health while also growing our exports,” he says. “We are on the cusp of some massive and exciting tech changes in our lives.” His comments follow the recent Silicon Valley Forum’s agritech immersion programme. In 2014, global investment in agritech firms was estimated at more than $US2.36 billion; in New Zealand, agritech is the third largest and fastest growing export sector, Mr Muller confirms. Although both the US and New Zealand are already producing success stories, more must be done to ensure the world produces not just the quantities of food required but also that it is of

sufficient nutritional value, he adds. “There are some amazing agritech developments in Silicon Valley [but] most of the major pain points in the US farm systems are similar to New Zealand, such as water management, nutrient management and labour shortages, so our agritech solutions are viable for this massive market. “There is growing evidence that the abundance of processed foods is the underlying cause of a global obesity epidemic. This is also impacting New Zealand which is ranked third worst in the OECD for obesity.” www.ruralliving.co.nz

Harness racing

under scrutiny

riminal charges related to racefixing may prove a body blow for the harness racing industry but, until charges are proven, the extent of the damage is impossible to predict, Veteran Franklin trainer, Geoff Small, believes. “I am surprised about the amount of drugs [allegedly] uncovered... if [allegations are] upheld I would be surprised,” he says. “This is not good for the industry at all but, if they’re not upheld, then the RIU (Racing Integrity Unit) should have a lot to answer for.” At least 11 people will face charges related to drug possession and corruption resulting from an RIU investigation codenamed Operation Inca. Mr Small (who has more than 25 years experience as a trainer and driver) says it is important that the allegations are considered in context. “In reality the harness racing industry is a small community,” he says. “We have never been approached about race-fixing and I

don’t know of anyone that has.” John Street, owner of Pukekohe’s Lincoln Farms Bloodstock, the largest racing stable of thoroughbreds and standardbreds in New Zealand, says accusations of race fixing have taken him by surprise and he wonders what they will mean for the industry. “We all [owners, trainers, drivers] talk to each other; you usually have a good idea of how a horse will go and if it will win. I breed horses to win and they do; I usually know if a horse will go well but you don’t call that race fixing. On the other hand, if there is evidence of races being manipulated by drivers then it needs to be stamped on. I’ve no time for lawbreaking.” On the question of drugs in the industry, Mr Fleet says he doesn’t, and never has, tolerated drugs in any form. “There are legal medications you can give to horses for injury with a stand down period then required but I’ve told my trainers if a swab ever comes back

for illegal drugs they will be sacked immediately.” The scandal highlights the need to implement the Messara Report, a review of New Zealand’s racing industry compiled by Australian racing expert, John Messara, Mr Fleet adds. “I’m 100% behind the report; it will help racing recover and be good for the overall industry.” Regardless of the outcome of the investigation and subsequent charges, the allegations could see confidence among punters drop, Minister of Racing, Winston Peters, believes. “This is a sad development. New Zealanders need to have confidence that the racing industry has integrity and is not above the law,” he says. “It highlights how important it is that we have a strong, independent authority like the Racing Integrity Unit to ensure offending behaviour is brought to light. We can have confidence that the system is working.”

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Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 15

plaStIC wrap – No loNger for the BIrDS

go(A)t milk, bAby?

Feeling disillusioned that, even after boycotting non free-range birds, we’re still having a negative impact on Mother Nature? Well, thanks to a couple of innovative organic chicken suppliers, it appears there is a way to reduce our dependence on plastic lock, (Bo)stock and barrel. By implementing compostable meat packaging, a Hawkes Bay company (Bostock Brothers), is on the brink of a movement committed to reducing harmful environmental impact from plastics. “Putting meat in compostable packaging obviously poses challenges,” Ben Bostock says. “But we have worked hard to successfully develop a compostable option that works.” The packaging (produced by Hamiltonbased company, Convex) is made from corn sources and wood pulp. “We want to be part of the drive to get rid of plastic. We want to be leaders in our industry,” Mr Bostock adds. “We are passionate about farming sustainably and reducing our environmental impact to meet demand from our conscious consumers.”

In the 1990s, an advertising agency asked if consumers had ‘Got Milk?’ in efforts to extract a little extra money from the American market. However, with a subtle variation in spelling, the same question could still apply. A five year, $29.65 million partnership will see industry and government work together in a bid to serve a burgeoning market for goat’s milk, David Hemara from the Dairy Goat Cooperative expects. “Our [Caprine Innovations Primary Growth Partnership] programme aims to strengthen the position of goat’s milk infant formula as the preferred alternative to conventional formula,” he explains. Launched in Hamilton by Minister of Agriculture, Damien O’Connor, the partnership will provide tools to farmers to measure and improve performance while increasing dairy goat by 50% – to more than 100,000. The partnership’s ultimate goal is to increase export revenue from goats’ milk to $400 million per annum by 2023, but there will be other benefits, Mr Hemara expects.

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Vet Talk

Challenges with meat only diets october in growing puppies CHECKLIST Forty years ago commercially formulated puppy or kitten diets weren’t available. A typical diet consisted of WeetBix and milk for breakfast, and home prepared meat and vegetables for the other meals. Calcium supplements helped to balance the diet. Despite best efforts we would still regularly see puppies and kittens presented to the clinic with deformed or broken bones. Luckily, we rarely see these problems now because most people feed well formulated puppy and kitten diets, which provide all the important nutrients required for growth. However, because of the interest in feeding meat only, or predominantly fresh meat diets, we are seeing a resurgence of these clinical problems. The x-rays above show a young puppy fed solely on meat. It had jumped or fallen off the couch and fractured its thigh bone (see red arrows on x-ray). The bone had crumpled like folded cardboard but the x-rays provide the explanation – there was insufficient calcium in the bones. The bone density looks

Left: X-ray on meat diet . Right: X-ray after two weeks on puppy food.

just the same as the soft tissues around them – i.e. the muscles and skin. The softness of the bones was also collapsing the puppy’s pelvic bones and narrowing his pelvic canal, which could result in some issues with constipation later in life. Calcium is the mineral which, when incorporated in the bone, provides the strength which allows bones to be the structural framework for our bodies. Inadequate calcium means weak bones which break easily. The balance of calcium in the diet compared to other nutrients, such as phosphate, is also important and complex calculations are required to design a home-

vet?

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made diet which is safe. Good quality, commercially prepared puppy and kitten diets have removed that complexity and will allow puppies and kittens to grow into strong and vital adults. The good news is that this puppy’s problem can be corrected, simply by changing it on to a good quality, puppy diet designed for growth. The fracture will heal quickly with cage rest. Only two weeks after the first x-rays and there was a noticeable difference. The puppy had grown significantly but, more importantly, the Royal Canin puppy food had provided the calcium which had been missing on the meat-based diet. The x-rays

Franklin Vets Papakura and Pukekohe are open 7 days and late nights

n Spring is the time to ensure you have given your horse adequate control for redworm. A moxidectin containing drench is recommended followed by an egg count 12-14 weeks afterwards to check your horse’s ongoing drenching needs. n Calves and lambs: Keep an eye out for pooey bums. Internal parasites and coccidia are prevalent now, so make sure a good parasite prevention programme is in place for younger animals. n Sheep need to be shorn prior to summer. Our lifestyle packages include organising the shearing for you! n Got an itchy dog? With new products such as Apoquel and Cytopoint now available, it is a great time to make an appointment with your vet to get on top of it. show the bones have calcified and can be seen more clearly. The fracture had nearly healed. This puppy will go on to develop normal strength bones and will live a normal active life. A good quality properly balanced diet designed for the life stage of your pet is critical.

KAT5238-v11

Dr Nick Twyford BVSc MANZCVS (Medicine of Dogs)

WAIUKU 2 COURT ST. 09 235 9101 | PUKEKOHE 86 HARRIS ST. 09 238 7486 BEACHLANDS 1/43 KOUKA ROAD. 09 538 0010 | KARAKA UNIT A1, 75 HINGAIA RD. 09 238 7486 PAPAKURA 365 GREAT SOUTH RD. 09 298 8575 | TE KAUWHATA 91 WAERENGA RD 07 826 4838 www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 17

Here come the bunnies By Ditch keeling, Coastal pest Solutions

’m taking a tonne of possum calls from right across Auckland at present. Some folk are struggling with new possum problems but far more are in need of putting possum controls in place as part of resource consent requirements in order to split off a section for sale – a sign of the times huh! As I write this the sky is clear and early morning fog is hanging in the valleys, it feels distinctly Spring-ish! Its an exciting time of year for us “pesties”; most of the dreary (and muddy) winter possum season is over and another sunny-bunny season is beginning. I’m already starting to see a slight increase in rabbit numbers across Auckland, as all those that weren’t killed by the cold of the past few months go into recovery mode. Most females are now pregnant and some are already on their second litter, as evidenced by new young starting to be seen out there. Wet living conditions are very hard on rabbits, and populations will often decline markedly during winter. This natural low

point in numbers provides an excellent opportunity for control as, more than any other time of the year, far fewer animals have to be killed to achieve a high level of control. The key factor with most successful rabbit populations is ‘cover’. Whether this is in the form of burrows/warrens, artificial e.g. log/rock piles or low dry vegetation, rabbits cannot thrive without cover. Removing this cover, where possible, will always assist with rabbit control and make it that much harder for a new population to become established. Where rabbits are using burrows in the ground or under concrete slabs etc, these can be easily treated with magnesium phosphide (magtoxin) and back filled. This is particularly popular with equestrian properties as filling the holes further reduces the risk of leg breakages to horses. Fumigation is fairly specialised but most people can get it right with some good instruction. Dealing with other ‘artificial’ cover can be as simple as burning fire piles, getting farm equipment and stocks of posts etc

up off the ground as well as keeping a generally tidy appearance around paddocks and shed storage areas. Woody weeds, such as gorse and other lowvegetative cover, which rabbits use, should also be removed. Depending on how much of this is possible, physical control will usually be required to some degree and it goes without saying that you wouldn’t necessarily go to the expense of spraying five acres of grand-daddy gorse for a rabbit population that could be removed by a professional, like myself, in 3-4 hours once a year. Comprehensive and complete rabbit control will often include all of the above, and in situations where there are no other rabbits nearby, high level control can last for many years making the ‘once and for all’ approach more economical over time. Rabbits are breeding right now and the perfect time to start control was last week. If your property suffers from rabbit damage most summers then remember the old saying, ‘a stitch in time saves nine’ – acting now will save you both time and money over the summer.

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18 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

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NEW HERBICIDE GIVES FREEDoM oF CHoICE

armers understand the old adage ‘time is money’ better than most people, which is why a new product from Corteva Agriscience – a forage brassica herbicide with plant back periods ranging from 0 to 6 months – is creating interest. Korvetto’s short plant back periods provide unparalleled flexibility for forage brassica growers who will no longer have to wait a year or more before they can re-crop their paddocks after applying a herbicide. With Korvetto™ they can gain control of key weeds, including Shepherd’s purse and fumitory, and be planting clover within three months and fodder beet in six months. The secret to Korvetto’s success lies in a unique ingredient, Arylex™ Active, a powerful broad spectrum active with a particularly favourable toxicological and ecological profile. Quick to degrade in soil, Arylex Active enhances the ability to rotate crops without the need for significant stand-down periods. Offering the highest levels of crop safety, Korvetto is viable solution for farmers looking to maximise yield. Its novel weed spectrum makes it particularly versatile, while its built-in MSO adjuvant ensures it is incredibly convenient to use. For Kiwi farmers, who are the first in the world to get access to Korvetto, the benefits are numerous. Alongside superior weed control, they’ll have the freedom to choose where, when and what they plant, and the ability to maximise the potential of their land. And all of that should translate to greater yields and healthier returns. – Contributed by Corteva Agriscience™

KAT5232-v9

eaching old dogs new tricks may not be easy but, with help from Krones, a new production line in Pokeno appears set to ensure New Zealand goes with the flow of plastics recycling. “The new line uses the latest technology from Krones, Germany and is capable of forming around 28,000 600ml bottles from recycled raw material and then filling them with water – every hour,” NZ Drinks’ director, Tony Vesper explains. “We introduced recycled plastic into some of our ranges two years ago but the new line will allow us to continue to expand production of bottled water in recycled packaging.” As a result of the new line, NZ Drinks’ Pure NZ water will now be packaged in 100% recycled plastic bottles; 220 million made from recycled PET (rPET) plastic will be produced annually, Mr Vesper’s fellow director, Kyle Osborne, adds. “In theory, there is no limit to the number of times the plastic from a bottle of water can be recycled into new products – what we are missing in NZ is the infrastructure necessary to achieve this. “As New Zealand’s largest bottled water producer we felt it was our responsibility to introduce the latest raw material and manufacturing technology as an important step towards creating a more sustainable industry.”

KAT5218

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Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 19

Schools less than calf full? While many of this year’s calf club, agricultural days, country days etcetera will feature far fewer hand-reared bovines (due to the Mycoplasma bovis outbreak) schools are still forging ahead with their annual events. If your school is holding an event and isn’t included here, please send through basic details to editor@ruralliving.co.nz and we’ll be happy to add these (where practical) into our next issue.

pukekohe Christian School pet Day September 20-21, 82 Yates Road, Pukekohe Contact: 09 238 6449 or admin@pcschool.co.nz Clevedon School agricultural Day September 21, 13 North Road, Clevedon Contact: 09 292 8654 or office@clevedonschool.co.nz karaka School agricultural Day September 22, 12 Blackbridge Road, Karaka Contact: 09 294 8166 or admin@karaka.school.nz patumahoe primary School Calf Club Day

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100 Stevenson Rd, Clarks Beach Phone 09 232 1788

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• Accommodation needs • Ideal extra brm • Long/short term hire Ph Lynette & Jeff Millen 021 533 585 or 0800 235 3500 www.countiescaravanrentals.co.nz

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kingsgate Christian primary School pet Day September 28, 53 Victoria Street, Pukekohe Contact: 09 239 0297 or admin@kingsgate.school.nz

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H.R. FISKEN AND SONS LTD 295 Tuakau Rd, Pukekohe Phone: 09 238 9414 www.hrfisken.co.nz PROUDLY MAKING STOCK FOOD SINCE 1957

Sandspit road School Combined Calf Club Day – also includes View road School & waiuku primary September 27, 60 Sandspit Road, Waiuku Contact: 09 235 9922, admin@sandspit.school.nz

Brookby School ag Day September 23, West Road, Brookby Contact: 09 530 8569 or office@brookby.school.nz

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aka aka primary School Calf Club Day September 27, 809 Aka Aka Road, Aka Aka Contact: 09 235 2806 or admin@akaaka.school.nz

ramarama School Calf Club & gala Day September 22, 126 Ararimu Road, Ramarama Contact: 09 294 8795 or admin@ramarama.school.nz

Hollier GreiG ltd 18 Elliott St, Papakura. Ph 09 298 7767 Cnr Madill & George Sts, Tuakau. Ph 09 236 8228.

office@ardmore.school.nz

September 22, 38 Patumahoe Road, Patumahoe Contact: 09 236 3802 or admin@patumahoe.school.nz

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20 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

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waerenga School Calf Club Day September 28, 1066 Taniwha Road, Waerenga Contact: admin@waerengaschool.co.nz waiau pa School Calf Club Day September 28, 571 Waiau Pa Road, Waiau Pa Contact: 09 232 1753 or admin@waiaupa.school.nz waipipi School Calf Club Day September 28, 100 Creamery Road, Awhitu Contact: 09 235 8007 or admin@waipipi.school.nz

harrisville School Country pet Day September 29, Harrisville Road, Harrisville Contact: 09 236 8795 or office@harrisville.school.nz

Mangatangi School Calf & lamb Day October 18, 2047 Miranda Rd, Mangatangi Contact: 09 232 7898 or admin@mangatangi.school.nz

otaua School Calf Club Day September 29, 55 Maioro Road, Otaua Contact: 09 235 2741 or admin@otaua.school.nz

waiuku Combined Schools Calf Club group Day October 18, Waiuku Rugby Club, King Street, Waiuku

paparimu School Calf Club/pet Day September 29, 3 Matheson Road, Hunua Contact: 09 292 5861 or admin@paparimu.school.nz

Mangatawhiri School Calf Club October 19, 15 McKenzie Road, Mangatawhiri Contact: 09 233 6004 or office@mangatawhiri.school.nz

ararimu School agricultural Day September 29, 7 Steel Road, Ararimu Contact: 09 294 8372 or office@ararimu.school.nz

pukekohe east School pet Day September 29, 137 Runciman Road, Pukekohe East Contact: 09 238 8708 or admin@peps.school.nz

awhitu District School Calf Club Day September 29, Matakawau Road, Awhitu Contact: 09 235 1005 or principal@awhitu.school.nz

pukeoware School Calf Club/gala Day September 29, 479 Baldhill Road, Waiuku Contact: 09 235 9443 or admin@pukeoware.school.nz

Bombay School Calf Club September 29, 35 Paparata Road, Bombay Contact: 09 236 1012 or admin@bombay.school.nz

puni School Country Day September 29, 357 Waiuku Road, Puni Contact: 09 238 7403 or admin@puni.school.nz

Buckland School agricultural Day September 29, 72 George Crescent, Buckland Contact: 09 238 9419 or GMills@buckland.school.nz

te hihi School ag Day September 29, cnr Linwood & Batty Roads, Hingaia Contact: 09 292 7706 or office@tehihi.school.nz

Drury School Calf Club Day September 29, Young Cresent, Drury Contact: 09 294 8502 or office@drury.school.nz

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glenbrook School Calf Club Day September 29, 459 Glenbrook-Waiuku Road, Glenbrook Contact: 09 235 3888 or admin@glenbrook.school.nz

orere primary School agricultural/pet Day October 19, Orere Point Road, Orere Contact: 09 292 2736 or office@orere.school.nz te kohanga School ag Day October 19, 976 Tuakau Bridge-Port Waikato Rd, Te Kohanga Contact: 09 232 8881 or admin@tekohanga.school.nz waikaretu School pet Day October 19, 1448 Waikaretu Valley Road, Waikaretu Contact: 09 233 3014 or admin@waikaretu.school.nz kaiaua School Calf Club Day October 20, 1061 East Coast Road, Kaiaua Contact: 09 232 2723, admin@kaiaua.school.nz

te kauwhata primary School Calf Club Day October 17, Wira Street, Te Kauwhata Contact: 07 826 3564 or office@tkp.school.nz

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Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 21

What’s up with D. O’C... Once on the frontline of New Zealand farming, now Damien O’Connor shapes the future of rural New Zealand from his Wellington City offices. As this column (based on reports from the minister’s departments) reveals, the D.O’C is never shy to deliver a prescription for keeping heartland New Zealand pumping.

Yesterday’s news tomorrow Although investing in the past is a somewhat redundant notion, investing in the future isn’t such a bad move for a government to make. So, to ensure New Zealand is prepared to cope with a warming world, our Minister of Agriculture has released a new booklet titled Investing in Tomorrow. “A warming planet means we must diversify our economy while working in partnership with our primary sectors to make the most of our competitive advantage,” Mr O’Connor says. “[This] booklet demonstrates agricultural greenhouse gas mitigation, carbon sink enhancement through forestry, and how to capitalise on potential opportunities from the response to climate change.” Commissioned in the past (by the previous Labour Government), this forward-thinking publication commemorates 150 research projects funded through the Sustainable Land Management and Climate Change Research Programme. “This knowledge stems from some of the brightest and best of our primary sector scientists and is a milestone worthy of acknowledgement,” Mr O’Connor adds. “These are excellent building blocks as we take action to move towards a more valuable, productive and sustainable primary sector.”

NAIT’S fate revealed A more effective NAIT could have stopped cattle disease M.Bovis in its tracks, but it could be argued that a more effective ‘Nate’ (aka former Minister for Primary Industries, Nathan Guy) may have had a similar effect. Although he has no control over the latter, our current Minister of Agriculture appears determined to do something about the former. “A well-functioning NAIT (National Animal Identification and Tracing) programme is a key part of our efforts to protect our vital primary industries from pests and disease,” Mr O’Connor says. “Farmers know that the Government is 22 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

Mr O’Connor at Fonterra Brands, Viet Nam

here to help them in times of biosecurity threats and wants to improve a system that was left without change for too long by the previous administration.” Changes to the NAIT Act 2012 – which include bolstering search powers when enforcing compliance and holding those who fail to declare stock movements to account – will support Mycoplasma bovis eradication efforts, he expects. “Since getting the NAIT Review in April, compliance activities have been stepped up with hundreds of on-farm checks, compliance warnings, stock truck checks and 39 infringement notices – compared with one in the previous five years... [This] legislation marks another meaningful step in bolstering NAIT.” More changes to the programme are expected, says the Minister. “We are already implementing nearly two dozen changes that don’t require legislative change, and will revisit NAIT legislation again in coming months after consulting on more changes, including making NAIT easier to use.”

Star service Damien O’Connor recently exercised a right not available to the people of the country he visited (and to a certain former National MP) – freedom of speech. During his trip to Viet Nam (that’s Vietnam in ‘old money’), our Minister of State for Trade and Export Growth confirmed the importance of Asian markets. “New Zealand and Viet Nam are mutually committed to reducing barriers to bilateral trade, particularly for our agricultural products... meetings will help smooth the access of products to the market, which is a fast growing economy in the Asia-Pacific with a demand for high quality products.” In the past year, New Zealand exported approximately $669 million in primary sector products, primarily milk powder, timber tallow and butter, Mr O’Connor confirmed. With trade dominating conversation, it appears the Minister did not address the human rights situation in the communist dictatorship during his visit. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit ruralliving.co.nz and enter this month's code – RLOCT9128. One entry per person/email address; entries close October 31, 2018. Winner notified by phone or email.

Win! NZ Flower & Garden Show double passes What on earth (or in it!) do Kiwis grow in their gardens? Find out when the annual NZ Flower & Garden Show bursts back into life (Nov 28-Dec 2) at Henderson’s Trusts Arena! From exhibition gardens to trade stalls and so much more, this event is not to be missed by those keen on all things green. Thanks to show organisers, Rural Living has THREE double passes to this fantastic event to give away.

Win! A copy of New Zealand’s Great Walks

Win! A Yates Butterfly-Ready Gardener kit With spring in the air and National Gardening Week approaching, Yates is giving away free Butterfly Field Mix seeds, from October 1-14, to ensure (unlike last year), monarch caterpillars will not be left short of swan plants, their primary diet – details via yates.co.nz. In the meantime, at least one of our local gardeners will be all set to help monarchs show their true colours by winning a Butterfly-Ready Gardener kit thanks to our mates at Yates. In addition to a variety of seeds (including Butterfly Field Mix), our winner will receive a pack featuring all the great Yates products pictured here. www.ruralliving.co.nz

As the weather warms, it’s that time when many will get up, get out and explore the wonders of our beautiful country. But, with so many worldclass walking tracks from which to choose, finding the right road to best suit our tastes, budget and level of fitness is no easy task. Fortunately, New Zealand’s Great Walks offers a detailed guide highlighting everything from maps and points of interest, to how one should best prepare and conservation information. To help one lucky reader take their first step into our great outdoors, we have a copy of this book to give away. Paul Hersey & Shelley Hersey: New Zealand’s Great Walks | RRP $45 | Random House NZ

Win! An Elm tee Does this garment suit you to a... tee? After such a great response earlier this year, Rural Living has secured one more high fashion t-shirt from Elm. So why not forget the yellow polkadot bikini and slip into this (somewhat warmer!) number instead? Visit elmlifestyle.com.au to view the latest designs and don’t forget to be in to win this particular piece of clothing – size 16. Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 23

Home, home on the cliﬀ Most countries have their Land’s End, many at the ocean door. Franklin has numerous places that could qualify but one of the most spectacular comes at the end of a long, private drive out the back of Otaua as HELEN PERRY discovered.

welve months ago Tom and Sarah O’Neil were living their version of the good life in Aka Aka – three acres of land, prolific vegetable garden, rural upbringing for their two sons and…a backyard that…oops, was just a bit too boggy for tomatoes (and a whole lot more veg) to thrive. It was a far cry from their previous life in Mt Wellington where days, weeks, months not only sped by but so did the thousands of cars….daily…on the nearby motorway and busy connecting roads. But it was Sarah’s life changing diagnosis of multiple sclerosis that prompted the family to up sticks and head for Franklin to raise their boys. Knowing she wanted to grow food for her own health and that of her children she settled down to grow vegetables, write gardening books, blogs and magazine columns while Tom got on with his career as a motivational speaker. Between them they also managed their business CV. CO. NZ, an international career coaching firm which has developed more than 8000 CVs

24 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

for clients in more than 50 countries. Life was pretty good but that boggy ground niggled and niggled. “When we first came south, the dream was for a sea view; we put it in the 10-year plan,” Sarah says. “Just when we thought it wasn’t going to happen, well, not within 10 years, we visited a friend’s section, nestled almost on top of the ocean, out Otaua way. “To cut a long story short, we wasted no

time trying to buy a nearby property but it was out of our reach. Then we almost swapped our Aka Aka home for friend’s land but that didn’t work out. “We almost gave up when the realty agent from the first property called to ask if we’d be interested in 10 acres just above our friend’s land. The ocean outlook was fabulous; we couldn’t wait to say, yes.” But buying the land was just the first step. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Photos Wayne Martin

Tom says the big hurdle was finding enough funds to build the dream home. “It just wasn’t possible to build new and get all that we wanted within budget,” he says. “Buying the land took a big chunk of cash so we started looking at transportable homes or houses for removal. However, finding the right aspect – all living areas looking out to sea and an easily accessed front door – wasn’t easy either.” Then, last year the O’Neil’s received the perfect Christmas present. Gathering in the Bay of Plenty for festive celebrations with the family they were idly looking online at houses down there when – “we spotted, the perfect character house – and, yes, it needed renovation, but some of the major work was already done.” The three-bedroom 1930’s house, relocated from Otahuhu (Auckland) to Tauranga 10 years earlier, had been rewired, re-gibbed and generally tidied up. The O’Neil’s wasted no time negotiating a purchase and six months ago, the house arrived at its new Franklin site. “It was a precarious journey. Many nearby roads were steep and winding and our www.ruralliving.co.nz

access isn’t much more than a metal drive,” Tom says. “Finally, the house was in and on ‘stilts’ but hardly very secure. Then we had the biggest storm ever. The transporters were truly worried we would arrive out next day to find it smashed to the ground. “Amazingly, we lost only the underfloor insulation although tarpaulins covering the roof just disappeared in the wind letting in water which damaged the ceiling. But overall we were hugely lucky; we think the weight of the stucco exterior helped keep the house stable. We were so relieved.” Some might think this enterprising couple (now living in the house) mad. Not only are they surrounded by mountains of boxes they have mountains of work to do – inside and out. Yet, even a fair amount of winter rain hasn’t stopped Sarah from making a start on her raised gardens – 29 is the plan. “Unlike Aka Aka, drainage isn’t a problem here, and may even be too much of a good thing as the new soil is predominantly sand. However, wind and salt spray could be an issue – we look straight out over the rugged west coast with its often wild waves, but how bad can it be? I’m a believer; if there’s a

problem there’s sure to be a solution.” And, Sarah has given herself a tight time frame for those first veg to be on the table. She swears there will be tomatoes, come summer! Gardening aside, she and Tom are also pouring over plans for an Airbnb with a couple of pre-built cabins also part of their future planning. They can envisage a swimming pool just below the house – the spa is already there – and they can visualise sunlit, open plan living which will require knocking through one wall. For now, however, they are waiting on resource consent – “we’re busting to get on with the job but we want to ensure all the t’s are crossed and the i’s are doted first. It’s so exciting; this place really speaks to us and we can see beyond the work,” Sarah says. “I’m also keen to be included in a future Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble and we definitely want friends to come here and be re-invigorated by this beautiful location. “For me, being here gives a real sense of wellbeing and purpose which is already showing in my garden and my writing. It makes me eager to take the next step.” Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 25

Prospect of summer

brightens sAd month

Reay Neben is a Franklin resident and publisher of Rural Living.

CITY LASS

ecause this has been such a bad month, writing my column has been difficult. Last month I wrote about my Waiau Pa friend’s husband who was sick and the fact that they were now selling their property which has really saddened us. This was followed by the news that my oldest friend – our families had been as one all my life – was getting ready to go overseas and went for a general medical check. Shockingly, he was diagnosed with that dreaded disease, the big C. He was never one to be ill yet two weeks later he died; I lost my mentor and arguing mate. They say life goes on and, yes, it does so Brian and I have decided it is the right time to seriously think about downsizing. We really didn’t achieve that with our last move. Although we downsized the land, the house is very big. While I have really enjoyed restoring the garden and also modernising our home, the question is do we need three bathrooms, four toilets, four to five bedrooms plus an office for just the two of us? Our property is a fabulous family home

Months of hard work renovating house and garden have resulted in a stunning property.

with the potential to convert one area into a granny flat. There are so many things I love about this place – its quiet location fabulous views and, best of all, the sun shining into every room – but I’m trying to be sensible about our lives. Many people do this when they are a lot younger than us but, finally, we are decluttering, cleaning and preparing to sell. But, on to happier things! We have had Pukekohe Decorators and Finishers in to paint all our interior doors and what a fabulous job they have done. I had already

started but was told my job wasn’t good enough so they sanded back all my hard work, then went ahead and provided us with a fabulous finish. What a difference paint makes; it has transformed our home. This time of year is so lovely and already the trees are starting to get their leaves. Our weeping wisteria will soon burst forth in flower and daylight saving is set to begin on September 30 then we will know for sure that summer is on its way. And, on that cheerful prospect I am looking forward to writing my column next month when it will be full of happiness.

Cherry Cooper Lives Local, Sells Local!

M. 021 955 141 Papakura Office 09 298 8029 26 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

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Gum disease

– how do you know you have it? By Yvonne Vannoort – Dentist BDS Otago

he signs of gum disease are red, swollen gums that bleed easily. They are not necessarily sore and your breath may or may not smell. In fact, sometimes diseased gums can look normal to you. Gum disease can be superficial or deep and everything between. When it’s superficial, the gums are red and they bleed. This is easy to change by removing plaque and deposits around the gums. Plaque is bacteria and sticky stuff that the bacteria make to help them stick to the teeth. When plaque is around a tooth for a few days, it changes because of minerals in your saliva that make a hard deposit. When gum disease is deeper, gaps form between the gum and tooth which we call pockets. Pockets start as shallow gaps but increase in depth as the disease progresses. The deposits form in these pockets too. Pockets that go all the way to the end of the root of a tooth mean the tooth has to come out. The tooth will often be sore to bite on at this stage and may also be loose. An abscess can form in the gum next to the loose tooth and be full of pus.

So what can we do to help gum disease? Gentle and careful cleaning by a hygienist or dentist settles red and sore gums, and improves the bleeding and bad breath. The aim is to reduce the depth of the pockets therefore these are measured over the time. The deposits build up at different rates for different people. It’s best to monitor this so we can determine the best time frame for you to have them removed. It is also important that you know that gum disease contributes to other diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and also low birth weight babies. You will find more information about this if you google. Remember, to be healthy overall, you also need healthy gums!

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Z Fashion Week has evolved from a trade and industry event to become a multi-faceted style showcase engaging thousands of fashionfocused delegates before inviting the style-savvy public to the party during NZ Fashion Weekend. Here’s what it is like to be a hairdresser during the busiest week in New Zealand fashion – Tuesday morning I arrive at Showroom 22, Victoria Park at 6.30am – no mean feat with four kids – I don’t know how people commute into the city every day! This opportunity to work on the 27 Names show with Lauren Gun, NZ’s ambassador for Kevin Murphy, is a thrill – the label name pays homage to the 27 people who helped get it off the ground. The next four hours are a blur of fast-paced hair creations depicting natural looking beach movement with a little something extra. Our models are lovely, the creative team incredible, and I love the vibe. I am lucky enough to be asked to assist backstage and on the photo shoot, continuously critiquing and faffing with the models’ hair. The show goes without a hitch; the collection is beautiful, bright and fun as well as sentimental and hopelessly romantic. Later that afternoon, Alberts stylists, Anita and Devin, meet Lauren at her salon, Colleen, and create incredible sculptures working, moulding and shaping real hair wefts into structures. They attach these artistic headpieces to the models hair for the Lela Jacobs show on Karangahape Road. This minimal, understated collection emphasises strong design, innovation and androgynous appeal without trend victimisation. A monochromatic colour palette accentuates conceptual silhouettes and strong lines. The girls absolutely love it and make Alberts proud. The final show is Friday afternoon. Stylist, Zoryana and I assist Melbourne’s Joey Scandizzo (four times winner of Australia’s Hairdresser of the Year) with a fantastic event showcasing Superette on the main Viaduct Events Centre runway. This is a high energy show with lots of fashion forward trends. The hair is sleek with a peeping plait at the nape – glossy, feminine and super sexy. Alberts has been involved in Fashion Week for a many years working alongside some of our industry greats then bringing back these techniques for our team and clients – we absolutely love Fashion Week!

Shop 2/23 Hall St, Pukekohe Phone 09 238 7576 www.alberts.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

‘Addressing’

your property with Cherry! Real estate agents who, as Winston Churchill said, ‘never, never, never give up’ are the ones who make the sales no matter what the market is doing. So when the ideal buyer is elusive or the right property is hard to find, the perseverance and unrelenting positivity of highly successful Barfoot & Thompson consultant, Cherry Cooper, means she is sure to conclude a deal. What’s more when you love what you do, success seems to fall at your feet as it does with Cherry whose in-depth knowledge of the area, where she has lived for the last 30 years, is evident in the way she markets every home. “I’m intent of delivery personalised, professional service, which means giving my clients undivided attention, listening to them and ensuring vendors (and buyers) are fully informed throughout the sales process.” As a result Cherry’s strong negotiation skills have resulted in many a happy outcome.“Good communication is incredibly important and I always welcome feedback,” she says. “Once a sale is achieved I love to introduce buyers to their new area and share with them as much knowledge as I can so they settle in as quickly and comfortably as possible.”And, Cherry has plenty of local knowledge to share. Based at the Papakura branch she specialises in rural waterfront properties and country living in general. Although she is the consummate professional when it comes to her work, she confesses to being very much a down to earth country girl, mother and grandmother, who enjoys family life.

An accomplished equestrian, she supports the Maramarua and Pakuranga Hunt Clubs and the Waiau Pa Pony Club which gives her a wealth of contacts. She is also an avid yachtie. Living on a country property means she can relate to clients who don’t want to be confined to urban living and her ability to negotiate the most difficult requests has earned her an awesome reputation as a rural specialist with a gift for achieving high prices for lifestyle block clients in Franklin and Karaka. “Because I live in the rural area that I

sell, and love its history, it is easy to extol the virtues of the region and the local community, while also highlighting the desirable attributes of a client’s home and its surrounds,” Cherry says. ‘I have been fortunate to market and sell many unique properties but it’s not always about the big blocks; I love helping people sell smaller properties too and there are definitely buyers out there who want land but not too much.” So if you’re looking to achieve the best possible results for your property – call Cherry today on 09 298 8029 or 021 955 141.

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Little house on the terrace

Behind Pukekohe’s housing revolution there is a wealth of historic homes ranging from cottages to sumptuous villas, which have survived decades of living, their owners respecting and preserving their character. HELEN PERRY talked to artist Elise Smith about her special home.

oday’s contemporary homes are largely sharp, smart and practical. Good looks come courtesy of clever architects and tend to combine clean lines, sophisticated angles and a flawless finish. Add to that, future proofing details to ensure comfortable, sustainable and costeffective living and you have the new face of Pukekohe. However, at 59 Prospect Tce, Elise Smith’s charming cottage has stood the test of time admirably. While the exterior remains true to its original style the interior is a far cry from the original plan. Elise says the renovation had been done long before she and husband Tony bought the property 13 years ago but changes were done in such a way as to retain character. “After moving in we discovered that former Pukekohe and Franklin mayor Max Short grew up in this house and lived here with his family until he married and built a house across the road,” Elise says. “Tony and I were thrilled when he and his brother came to visit us a couple of years after we moved in. They were keen to see the changes and even drew us a rough plan of what had been originally here. Max gave us a few photos too. I particularly like one of him and his brother just chilling in the backyard.” Because of the era in which it was built, Elise admits the house can be cold 30 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

Elise Smith’s cottage, once the home of former Pukekohe mayor, Max Short.

– “none of today’s modernisms such as insulation in every corner or double glazed windows. However, when the previous owners changed the use of most rooms, and pushed the ‘new’ lounge (formerly a bedroom) out on to what was a wraparound sun porch and closed it in, the result was a flood of sun and warmth into this expanded living area.” The lounge also leads to the ‘new’ north-facing kitchen and dining and on to a north/east facing deck. What was the original lounge is now the master bedroom and what was the kitchen is now a second bedroom although it still contains the brick surround and alcove which once housed a coal range. “I love the respect which has been paid to this house, the alterations

Photos Wayne Martin

being focused on modern living whilst preserving its history,” says Elise who, nevertheless, has made her own mark on the home. A mixed media artist and picture framer, she has added many artistic touches from a charming mosaic glass window at the front of the cottage, to mosaic tiles and garden art. The interior walls also showcase her work. “I’ve added various individual touches and we’ve done things such as carpet and curtains, bathroom, insulation, paintwork and a new wooden benchtop but the original renovation was so well done we haven’t had to do any major revamping although we might think about the kitchen down the track. In the meantime this is a home that suits us very well.” www.ruralliving.co.nz

Art lessons drawn from many mediums Art pretty well fills Elise Smith’s life. As a picture-framer, her cottage studio is regularly brimming with the works of fellow Franklin artists not to mention actual artists who often pop by. And, then there’s her own eclectic mix – on the walls, around the garden, in the studio and in the shed. Elise started her career as a graphic artist for a screen printing company, met engineer husband Tony, married and before long the couple had moved to Waiau Pa, leaving their city roots behind. With the birth of their two sons, now aged 20 and 18, Elise says, “I started doing my own thing at home. That included helping set up the Waiau Art Group, learning picture framing, initially to earn some pin money and becoming a published illustrator of children’s books for New Zealand-based, international company Red Rocket Books. “Although illustrating was great for a time and continues to earn me royalties, it didn’t sustain my creativity. Being a global company for the American market www.ruralliving.co.nz

everything had to be very P.C. If I drew a dog walking along the footpath, it had to be on a leash, if the footpath was near a stream it had to fenced and so it went on. “I was craving to grow my imagination.” That’s when Elise took her art a step further. She began experimenting with acrylics then mixed media and then the family moved to their Prospect Terrace home in Pukekohe. “By that time I’d also started exploring mosaic and glasswork which I still do but not as often as I would like. It’s a medium I really relish. I’m a bit of a magpie, I like the bling. I like the shine. And, I like the method. In fact, I just like getting my hands dirty.” Sourcing most of her glass from Sauvarins in Onehunga, Elise says she has successfully sold many of her mosaic works. In fact, almost totally sold out, she welcomes spring and a chance to get outside again – “mosaics call for working outdoors and I can’t wait to get back into the groove; some of the glass I work with looks so good it’s almost edible!”

But if friends think she has found her niche among glass and frames, they should know better. More recently Elise has begun experimenting with printmaking and says she loves this new direction – “I did a bit before the boys came along and I’ve long wanted to get back into working on paper.” She has also explored soft sculpture and makes jewellery from broken china – a semi fusion of Maori and European craftsmanship – the materials being colonial in nature while the pendants are finished with traditional greenstone lashing. Although time is always an issue – Elise still attends the Waiau Art Group gatherings and is heavily committed to picture framing – she says she and Tony still find time to escape to Coromandel in the camper van which Elise outfitted herself. “I’ve always been a bit of a hippie; I’d love to spend more time just wandering and pursuing art but, for now, that dream will have to keep for the future.” Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 31

On ya

scooter!

When driving a car us no longer viable, for many folk the next best thing is a mobility scooter which one spritely woman, in her 80’s, always refers to as ‘my handy golf cart”. And, certainly, some models are not too diﬀerent. Practical and fun too, mobility scooters are an increasingly common sight on footpaths and shopping areas, but their drivers can be at risk of a serious accident. Before buying a scooter, it’s important to have the skills to drive it safely. The New Zealand Transport Agency suggests anyone planning to move on to a mobility scooter should consider their ability to judge distances, their eyesight, hearing, and whether they can confidently handle such a vehicle safely. If in doubt, check with a doctor before purchasing. When planning to buy a mobility scooter, it’s a good idea to undertake some training on how to drive it safely; most scooter dealers will be able to advise on where nearby training is available. Also visit: nzta/govt.org and search for mobility scooter safety.

For a safer journey follow these tips from New Zealand Police: ◆ Wear bright or high-visibility fluorescent clothes. ◆ Stay visible – attach a flag to your scooter making sure it’s at least a metre above the ground. ◆ Use rear vision mirrors to watch for hazards behind you. ◆ Listen and watch for vehicles exiting or entering driveways. ◆ Be sure to use the indicators. In bad weather, turn on headlights even when travelling on the footpath and don’t travel faster than pedestrians. ◆ Slow down when manoeuvring sharp corners or slopes. ◆ Don’t let anyone stand or sit on your scooter while you are driving ◆ Where possible use a pedestrian crossing to cross a road and only cross when you can see the road is clear.

The Acacia Cove Lifestyle Acacia Cove is a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula. For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, bowling green and gym. Whether you choose to live in a villa or one of our luxurious apartments, you’ll have the security of a 24 hour, fully monitored emergency call system built in. If you’re aged 60 or over, value your independence but want greater security, come and have a look at the superb properties we have to offer. • Best Ageing Programme at the 2017 Ageing Asia Eldercare Awards

Sales Seminar

• Finalist in the Facility of the Year Independent Seniors Living Catergory

See and feel the Acacia Cove lifestyle for yourself!

Wattle Farm Rd, Wattle Downs, Auckland (09) 268 8522 (09) 268 8422 www.acaciacovevillage.co.nz bruce@acaciacove.co.nz

10:30am, Thursday September 27th RSVP to 268 8522 by Monday, September 24th

New Zealand owned and operated.

A right to occupy dwelling at Acacia Cove Village is unsecured.

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32 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

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IN THE KITCHEN By Cheryl Mckinstry

ooking with preschoolers can be a lot of fun even if the thought of it may deter some people. However, a bit of preparation and being organised can turn baking into a very enjoyable and educational experience for children. By helping in the kitchen children learn self-care skills, such as washing hands and being a part of a daily happening while also learning about healthy choices and the process of doing things. As an activity it helps to burn energy and encourages focus. For example, stirring without spilling can be a challenge for some youngsters. Cooking with children is a great time for them to learn mathematical concepts such as counting eggs, or looking at the numbers on the side of a measuring jug. Measuring ingredients teaches concepts of more or less as does creating even-sized cookies as they are rolled out. Cooking can help increase vocabulary when the process of adding ingredients is discussed, or when describing what we are doing as in stirring batter and general conversations. As children help more, their attention span will increase, they will develop awareness of smells and develop different likings for various tastes. They will gain confidence and grow control over their body movements with fine motor skills such as tearing lettuce for salad, assembling a pizza, turning pages in the cookbook, squeezing lemons to add flavour, chopping and grating. Children also develop problem solving methods, learn to follow directions and discover cause and effect through seeing ingredients change colour, and watching the process of something cooking. So, go on, get in the kitchen with your children and have some fun! The benefits are well worth the time together. Try this recipe with youngsters:

MuSelI SlICe Preheat oven to 180°c. Place 125g butter and 1/4 cup of golden syrup in a saucepan. Melt over a low heat. Place 1 cup rolled oats, ½ cup sultana’s, ½ cup cranberries, ½ cup dried apricots, ½ cup self raising flour and ½ cup brown sugar into a bowl. Mix to combine. Add the butter mixture and combine. Press into a lined tin. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden.

Suits & Gumboots Country Daycare 12 Helenslee Rd, Pokeno. 46 Waerenga Rd, Te Kauwhata Phone 0800 464656 www.suitsandgumboots.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

the nourished toddler Establishing healthy eating habits from the start is essential to ensuring young ones develop a taste for the right fuel to keep them going throughout life. In this book – a much-anticipated follow-up to The Nourished Baby – renowned nutrition expert, Dr Julie Bhosale provides comprehensive advice for parents. From what types of food are best for little ones on the move to how to wrangle fussy eaters, this guide also features meal plans, recipes and much more. Dr Julie Bhosale: The Nourished Toddler – the essential guide to navigating toddler feeding from 1-5 years | RRP $39.99 | David Bateman

is it bedtime yet? The first thing many of us learn about parenting is that we should throw out all those books! However, it’s definitely a good idea to hang on to this one! Far from a ‘how to’ guide, this book brings together a selection of witty and often moving stories recounting unique parenting experiences. From tales of birthday parties, hugs and hospital, to (of course!) sleepless nights, Is it Bedtime Yet? proves that however similar we all are, our experiences are never exactly the same. Emily Writes & friends: Is It Bedtime Yet? | RRP $35 | Random House NZ Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 33

Rich and hearty pork stew Serves: 4 Preparation Time: 5-10 minutes Cooking Time: 75 minutes

INgreDIeNtS ◆ 2 tbsp olive oil ◆ 500g trim pork leg rump steaks, diced ◆ 2 small chorizo sausages, diced ◆ 2 onions, peeled and chopped ◆ 2 tsp minced garlic ◆ 1 cup red wine ◆ 1 tsp rosemary sprigs (or dried rosemary) ◆ 2 cups chicken stock ◆ 1 x 400g tin of chickpeas ◆ 1 x 400g tin of red kidney beans ◆ ½ cup of parsley, chopped ◆ 2 tsp cornﬂour ◆ 2 tbsp water

MethoD preheat oven to 170 degrees C. place the oil in a pan and add the pork to brown on all sides. place in a casserole dish. add the chorizo sausage to the casserole. add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is soft. add the red wine, chicken stock, chickpeas and kidney beans, and bring to the boil. pour mixture over the pork. add the rosemary and cover. place in the oven for 1 hour, or until the pork is tender. Mix the corn ﬂour and water together to make a paste. Mix into the stew, and cook for a further 5-10 minutes. Courtesy of NZ pork www.pork.co.nz/recipes/

34 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

www.ruralliving.co.nz

FAre dues – AwArds beckon Forget meat and three veg, today’s award-winning shopping list is likely to feature far more exotic fare. From deer milk to buffalo cheese and vegan butter, innovative food products are set to make the grade in this year’s 2018 New Zealand Food Awards, judge and well-known chef, Nici Wickes, confirms.

“Our finalists this year have just blown our socks oﬀ with the amount of innovation, and I’m not talking about crazy inventions with food – it’s about taking a quality New Zealand product and then adding some value to it, to make it even more fantastic.”

Canopius as always is bringing the finest, freshest and freerange product to the area’s surrounding Papakura. Paired with our 100% fair-trade, organic coffee for the best brunch in the South. Be it a Canopius burger or one of our delicious winter soups for lunch or our savoury black waffles for brunch, Canopius’ focus on high quality is sure to please. Whether you’re choosing your favourite from our menu, or grabbing something from the extensive cabinet selection, Canopius will cater to what drives your hunger. 145 Great South Road, Papakura Open Tues-Fri 7am-4pm Sat-Mon 8am-3pm Phone 09 299 1180 www.canopius.co.nz www.facebook.com/canopiuscoffeehouse

With 67 products from 54 companies up for recognition across 11 categories, the finalists cover a broad range of foodstuffs, from the exotic to the garden variety, including cured meats, salmon, crackers, honey and even the humble, Kiwi pie. Winners will be announced at a gala dinner – where the menu expects to impress! – in October.

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CANOPIUS

POCO LOCO RESTAURANT

r ay s, re ou nd et at k ls Su ark The hec tai M er – c r de nn st fo Di s be ite it’ bs at we

Country Cafe

Welcome to Franklin’s original Tapas restaurant! Poco Loco means “Little Crazy” in Spanish, so come along for a different and fun eating experience. We have been serving the people of Franklin since 2004 utilising fresh, seasonal, local produce using authentic Mediterranean & Spanish recipes with a Kiwi twist. It’s a delightful way to enjoy great tasty food with friends and family in a fabulous locally owned restaurant with friendly service. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 5pm till late. 15 Queen St, Pukekohe Phone 09 2381607 Email info@pocoloco.co.nz www.pocoloco.co.nz www.facebook.com/pocolococafenz/

WINNER Rural Cafe of the Year 2016 & 17

Weddings - Birthdays or any special occasions

Palazzo

www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

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Breakfast/Lunch – licensed OPEN 7 days 8.30am - 4.00pm

16 Jesmond Rd, Karaka Ph (09) 294 6687 Email: eat@redshedpalazzo.co.nz www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

KAT5624-v2

Red Shed

KAT6126

Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 35

Chocolate Beetroot Cake While the Counties Power Pukekohe Show might serve up more than just a slice of country life come February 16-17, here’s a slice (courtesy of Jo-Ann Day-Townsend) we can enjoy right now! What’s more, after a bit of practice, enter your cake into the show’s cooking section to be in to win – see pukekoheshowgrounds.co.nz for details.

INgreDIeNtS ◆ 175g plain ﬂour ◆ 10g baking powder ◆ 75g cocoa powder ◆ 225g caster sugar ◆ 3 eggs ◆ 225g beetroot (roasted, peeled & chopped) ◆ 200ml corn oil ◆ 250g dark chocolate ◆ 250ml double cream

MethoD preheat the oven to 200C / gas Mark 6. grease and line a 20cm cake tin. Sift the ﬂour, baking powder, cocoa powder and sugar into a bowl. Blend the eggs, beetroot and corn oil in a blender

until smooth. fold the beetroot mixture into the dry ingredients and bake for 40 minutes. while the cake is baking, prepare the ganache (see below). remove the cake from the oven and leave to cool. once chilled, generously cover the cake with the chocolate ganache. Ganache: place the double cream into a saucepan and simmer gently until just before it reaches boiling point. Break the chocolate in pieces and into a mixing bowl. pour the warmed double cream onto the broken chocolate and mix gently until the two are blended together to make a silky chocolate icing.

36 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

www.ruralliving.co.nz

froM the earth

Culinary

must haves

The world’s best chefs know that, even when creating cuisine fit for a king, it’s often best to begin down in the dirt! From the Earth takes a close look at vegetables which are often (sometimes quite literally) overlooked. Including historical information and tips for growing marvellous veggies for use in stunning dishes, this book is expected to appeal to greenfingered gardeners and hot shot cooks alike. Peter Gilmore: From the Earth | RRP $90 | Hardie Grant Books

DeStINatIoN flaVour Featuring more than 80 recipes, as well as more than a few yarns behind them, this book highlights the sights (and tastes) writer and TV presenter, Adam Liaw has encountered during his extensive travels. Behind every great recipe there’s often a pretty darn good story too, as Destination Flavour is set to show. Adam Liaw: Destination Flavour | RRP $55 | Hardie Grant Books

wIlD DelICIouS A Rose in the garden is worth two in the kitchen! Returning to her roots, cookbook author, Amber Rose, draws on ingredients from gardens, orchards, farms and the sea in order to present a range of recipes. Billed as ‘fuss-free’, these recipes will allow everyone – from master chefs to culinary novices – to dish up meals which are truly... wild at heart. Amber Rose: Wild Delicious | RRP $55 | Random House NZ

JaMIe CookS ItalY When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s Dean Martin; when it shines on a bountiful Italian feast, however, there’s a good chance it’s more to do with Jamie Cooks Italy. From carbonara to limoncello tiramisu, this book features 130 recipes, with chapters covering the likes of antipasti, pasta, desserts and much more. Jamie Oliver: Jamie Cooks Italy | RRP $65 | Michael Joseph

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Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 37

We dig weekends. Talk to our friendly Central Landscape Supplies team at Drury about all your landscape supply needs.

Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 7am - 5pm, Saturday: 8am - 4pm, Sunday: 9am - 1pm 38 — Rural Living — September/October 2018 www.centrallandscapes.co.nz

www.ruralliving.co.nz Auckland • 09 294 8410 • 141 Great South Rd, Drury, KAT5290-v11

Penstemon

a thought for SprINg

ardeners in a pensive mood over what to plant this spring should contemplate hardy, easy-care penstemons – so lovely in cottage gardens which call for loads of colour. A North American native with colourful, tubular flowers on tall spikes, penstemon thrives in hot, sunny conditions and is often referred to as beardtongue. This common name stems from the prominent staminode, an infertile stamen, which extends to the mouth of the corolla. In some varieties, the staminode is long and hairy, having the look of an open mouth with a fuzzy tongue protruding. Long used by native Americans in medicinal remedies for both people and animals, this pretty plant may call America home but Europe was largely responsible for its wider cultivation. Penstemon flowers in early to mid summer, its colours including white, blue, red and various shades of pink and purple. Best planted in groups, smaller varieties are also suitable for rock gardens and at the front of a border. They make great cut flowers for the vase and will tolerate dry soils although regular watering, especially in very dry summer conditions, will keep these elegant ladies happy.

where, wheN aND how to plaNt

Central’s Tips October 2018

It’s growing time! Plant summer veggies and herbs, hang sticky traps in apple and pear trees and patch up that lawn. It’s also a good time to get the weeds and pests under control and add mulch to the garden.

In the Veggie Patch • Plant all the summer producing vegetables – tomatoes, capsicum, zucchini, cucumbers and eggplants

• Did you know? It’s best to put a tall stake (1.8m) beside your small tomato plants as the vine types grow very tall and need support

• Summer herbs such as dill, French tarragon and coriander are good to plant now

• Eating flowers – there are plenty of flowers that can be used in salads or as edible garnishes - nasturtiums, carnations, daylilies, rose petals and violas are just a few

◆ Spring is the time for planting, seeds and seedlings or cuttings. ◆ Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil where plants will have plenty of room; penstemons don’t like to be crowded. ◆ If planting seedling, space plants 20cm to a metre apart depending on the variety. Don’t crowd plants but loosely plant in groups of three to five. ◆ Loosen soil to a depth of about 20cm; the more friable the soil, the stronger and healthier the roots. Mix in a layer of compost, dig a hole twice the diameter of the pot the plant is in. ◆ Remove plant carefully from the container and place it in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Fill in around the root ball and firm the soil gently. Water thoroughly. ◆ As plants develop pinch out early growth to encourage more stems and therefore, more flowers. Remember to deadhead too. This will also encourage more flowering.

• Hang sticky traps in apple and pear trees

Care

Lawns

◆ Apply a thin layer of compost in spring, followed by a 3-4cm layer of mulch. Mulch is important in colder areas for warmth and also to retain moisture where needed. It will, of course, help control weeds too. ◆ Water plants regularly until well established and when conditions become very dry.

• Patch existing or sow new lawns • Fertilise lawns with Turfmaster Gold.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

to stop an infestation of codling moth in the young fruit. Or, Spray with Yates’ Success Ultra (four times only) over the spring season.

The rest of the Garden • Wage war on the weeds – by actively removing or spraying them early in the season

• Aphids appearing: Spray with an organic insecticide or, if your water pressure is good, loosen them with a heavy squirt of water

• Apply sheep pellets and a layer of mulch

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around the garden.

Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 39

Change on cards for Young Farmer

fter more than half a century, Young Farmer of the Year is set to come of age. From next year, competitors can expect modern technology to play a primary role in the iconic contest, NZ Young Farmers’ board member, Cole Groves, confirms. “We’d like to inject a bit of excitement and unpredictability into the contest through the use of innovation,” he says. “We want to expand contestants’ knowledge beyond just fencing and identifying different types of fertiliser.” Although practical challenges will continue to feature strongly, competitors will have to demonstrate greater innovation and aptitude with technology. Although women (including Karaka’s own Lisa Kendall) have reached Young Farmer’s grand final, none have claimed the coveted crown to date; the competition’s changed emphasis will encourage more women to give the contest a go, Mr Groves expects. In addition, awards for the highestscoring competitor in each of the five challenges will be scrapped, and the

TeenAg competition will become the FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year. “The AgriKidsNZ and TeenAg competitors idolise the FMG Young Farmer of the Year contestants,” Mr Groves says. “Having AgriKidsNZ, the FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year and FMG Young Farmer of the Year all part of the

same event will help lift the prestige of the students’ contests.” The changes will begin to take effect at regional finals early next year, which lead into July’s grand final. Before then, however, district contests will take place late this year – see fmgyoungfarmercontest.co.nz for details.

BUILT ON A SOLID PAST, SHAPING THE FUTURE

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40 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

Head to www.keithhayhomes.co.nz and submit your story.

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As part of our 80 Year Celebrations we would love to invite you to share your stories, memories and experiences relating to the Hay family and the legacy of Keith Hay Homes.

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Winter chills impact market By Darren Szaszy, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe

ew statistics from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) show there were 31 lifestyle property sales in the Franklin area in August. This is a slight decrease on August last year when there were 33 sales. Overall winter sales have been steady in Franklin however, there has been a shortage of good listings which has likely kept prices stable. We have seen some properties exceeding market expectations through higher buyer competition. Due to the shortage of listings throughout winter it’s expected there could be a good influx of lifestyle properties to the market over the warmer months.

KARAKA 246 LEWIS ROAD DISTINGUISHED ELEGANT LIFESTYLE HOME OF 461sqm Spacious 5 brm, 461sqm family home nestled on 1.78ha. The kitchen flows into an expansive open plan dining/lounge area, with an impressive fireplace. An ultra-spacious room with openings to the outdoors could be utilised as a home theatre or a games room. Equipped with every modern convenience this home also offers a laundry room, three heat pumps, an HRV system, a hi-tech surround sound system, a central vacuum system and a triple car internal garage. Ideal for entertaining with an in-ground pool surrounded

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Across the rest of the country there were 112 less lifestyle property sales (-5.6%) for the three months ended July 2018 than for the three months ended June 2018. Overall, there were 1883 lifestyle property sales in the three months ended July 2018, compared to 1984 lifestyle property sales for the three months ended July 2017 (-5.1%) and 1995 lifestyle property sales for the three

months ended June 2018. In all, 7251 lifestyle properties were sold in the year to July 2018; 1013 (-12.3%) fewer than were sold in the year to July 2017. The value of lifestyle properties sold was $5.86 billion for the year to July 2018. The median price for all lifestyle properties sold in the three months to July 2018 was $660,000, which was $80,000 higher than the three months ended July 2017 (+13.8%).

1 1

BUCKLAND

2146 BUCKLAND ROAD OPPOrTUNITY AWAITS YOU

by a large tiled area. The fenced paddocks are suitable for a variety of uses, with plenty of room to graze animals and there is an abundance of established fruit trees. FOr SALE: By Negotiation CONTACT: Trudy Boyce 021 898 483 www.barfoot.co.nz/ 762552

Near on 1ha of flat/gentle contour land, the perfect land area for lifestyle, horses or could even lend itself to a home based work & income situation. Down the daffodil lined driveway is this classic Kiwi weatherboard home, which is ready for a makeover. The right components are here with 4 dble brms, a retro kitchen and timber trimmings. If a reno is not for you, then this perfect plot could be the spot to relocate and start from scratch. This property is a project waiting to happen and is surplus to requirements for its

current owners. The property is serviced by its own bore, the lovely contoured pasture offers a multitude of uses along with the garage/workshop and the old barn. In a handy location only minutes to Pukekohe and Tuakau and in zone for the popular Buckland Primary School. AUCTION: 26th September (unless sold prior) CONTACT: Brendon Moore 027 238 6660 www.barfoot.co.nz/ 762417

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Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 41

The Countryside Begins with Townsend...

If your property needs repair or you’re considering a few renovation projects to get it ready for sale, there are a few things you need to consider first. Although well-planned, cost-effective renovations can add value to a home, there is always the risk of overcapitalising.

That’s why it pays to consider the types of renovations that add value and appeal to potential buyers. Remember, renovating for your own personal use and renovating to attract a wide range of potential buyers are two different things. It all comes down to your return on investment or ROI. Check your margins – If your property isn’t in desperate need of repair and you’re confident you have a decent amount of equity existing in your property, renovations may not be necessary. Especially if after crunching the numbers, you’re not confident you would be increasing the sale price by that much, and remember a return on investment can never be guaranteed. A general rule of thumb is to spend no more than 10% of the property’s value on the alterations. Any more than this, and you risk over-capitalising. So, the first step would be to ensure you have an up-to-date valuation of your property, undertaken by a professional. The next step would be to work out a budget, and ensure you add a buffer in case of unforeseen additional expenses. Do you need a quick sale? – Most renovations take time, to plan and budget for as well as to be completed. So, if you’re looking to sell soon, renovations may not be possible. Remember too, that renovations

rts lly ou 0 ona rc 1 i Ha P nat TOgent la ra Ru

When not to renovate

often go over budget and can take longer than anticipated so factor all these considerations into your decision. Who are you renovating for? – Some renovations appeal to most buyers, such as a kitchen or bathroom upgrade, but others are personal to you and your needs, taste and style and therefore won’t appeal to the largest number of potential buyers. For example adding extensions such as granny flats, converting bedrooms into specific-purpose rooms like a media room or library, and separating rooms by adding additional internal walls. Who are you selling to? – This is where research is key. What is the demographic of your property’s neighbourhood? Mostly singles and couples? Mostly retirees or mostly families? Finding out who the neighbourhood is likely to attract will help you determine suitable renovations and not so suitable ones. For example if your potential buyer is most likely an investor, keep renovations to a minimum as they will almost certainly have their own plans and your changes may add no value to them at all. Ask if you’re unsure – When planning a renovation, don’t shy away from asking Jo-Ann for her opinion on the condition of the property, the type of buyer the home is likely to attract, what similar homes in similar condition are selling for and any renovations they would recommend. You may be surprised, if your home isn’t in need of massive renovations Jo-Ann will tell you and you may save yourself a lot of hassle, time and money.

Jo-Ann Day-Townsend 021 1696 056 jo-ann.day-townsend@harcourts.co.nz www.joanndaytownsend.co.nz BCRE Ltd Licensed Agent REA 2008

Waiuku, 242 Hull Road

Offer accepted elsewhere – Sale Urgent Tucked on the outskirts of Waiuku and yet close enough for a coffee, this lifestyle property is yearning for a new owner. A cute home with three bedrooms, open plan living and good garaging. This could be just what you are searching for.

So don’t delay, you will miss out, contact Jo-Ann Day-Townsend 021 1696 056 42 — Rural Living — September/October 2018

www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5307-v11

Looking out over the farm land the home is prime to be your slice of paradise. Take advantage of the vendors desire to move, come and view before this is sold. To view an ebook and find out more abut this property – email jo-ann.day-townsend@harcourts.co.nz

The best medicine By Kylie Bosanac, Nick Bosanac Builders Limited

ach home we build is unique and specifically designed to reflect the tastes, needs and wants of their owners. We ensure our clients have lots of tools, resources and experts around to help them as they make the big and little choices in their home so that it will look and feel exactly the way they envisioned it. It can be nerve-wracking making all those choices, but we like to think we help to make the process smoother for them… but then we started planning our own home! What happened? Secret time – tasting your own medicine is TERRIBLE! There are two ways to design your home. Gut-Feel and Fastidiousness. For months I Pinterested, Houzzed and Archipro’d until well past the end of the Internet. Nick, on the other hand, slept. I worked with our amazing colour consultant, talked to style-savvy friends, visited stores and importers and expos. Nick wasn’t that fussed. In his mind, not only was he clear on what he wanted, he knew how to achieve it. This next experience proves it. I spent painstaking hours pouring through colour charts and wallpaper selections. There seemed to be infinite shades of white and some of them just didn’t match the wall colour I was looking at. Nick googled it and found a perfect combo on the first hit. (If you could have seen the steam coming out of my ears!) Does any of this sound familiar? I read somewhere that the two hardest things a couple will do is raise kids and build a home. We’re in the throws of both. Pretty sure we’ve nailed the essence of the first one, for now! We’ll let you know about the second when we are finished! But it either makes you or breaks you, right? So give YOURSELF a break and remember the BEST medicines – laughter and love. When the decision making gets tough, find ways to make it fun, and remember you are doing it all for love. Neither Gut-Feel or Fastidiousness alone are the right or wrong way. It is going to take a bit of both. Neither guarantees perfection. They are more a reflection of your own inherent nature, so roll with it! And, remember, if you need a hand, a listening ear, or a chat about the nature of white paint shades, we’ll be right here.

Bring us your plans, or let us design you something unique. We take pride in assuring that all work is of the highest quality.

Licensed, Quality Builders Off Plan & Custom Built Homes Modern and historical home experience Attention to detail We manage it all, design to finish! Renovations & Addtions

Let us build your Forever Home www.bosanacbuilders.co.nz 09 236 8413

www.ruralliving.co.nz

021 989 636

KAT5302

We Build Beautiful Homes.

Work smarter? Log...on

n previous issues, Rural Living featured a robotic apple packer and even the mysterious RoboFly; now, we take a more down to earth glimpse at what awaits the primary industries in the not-too-distant future. No driver need keep a ‘log’ book for this vehicle! Unveiled at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, the T-log could prove a boon to the forestry sector. This autonomous, all-electric logging truck is intended to improve worker safety while reducing impact on the environment. “With the T-log, we’ve created a vehicle that can withstand the rigours of a demanding environment,” says Robert Falck from its Swedish designer, Einride. Such vehicles should prove more cost-effective too. “The driver’s cab is what makes trucks expensive to produce, and having a driver in the cabin is what makes them expensive to operate,” says Mr Falck. “Remove the cabin and replace the driver with an operator who can monitor and remote-control several vehicles at once and costs can be reduced significantly.” Einride intends to introduce the T-log by 2020. Interest has already been expressed by several major global companies, Mr Falck confirms.

Wooden tyres – back to the future

Reinventing the wheel is not such a silly idea. In order to make the most of the world’s finite resources, tyre manufacturing giants (such as Michelin and Bridgestone) are working towards the production of tyres largely made from plant fibres. Expected to produce its first ‘wooden’ tyre by 2020, Michelin aims to mass-produce 100 percent recyclable tyres (using 80 percent sustainable materials) by 2048. In comparison, the company’s tyres of today feature only 28 percent sustainable materials with a recycling rate of approximately 50 percent. While it’s unlikely that, rather than burning rubber we’ll be burning wood, even the tyres’ tread will feature 3D printed bio-degradable materials.

nick@bosanacbuilders.co.nz

Rural Living — September/October 2018 — 43

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