THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR

THE POINT WELLS CRIER

VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR

THE GARDEN VILLAGE OF RODNEY SUMMER ISSUE

On Saturday, 14 November around 50 residents assembled at the boat ramp armed with buckets, gloves, snips and gumboots to carry out the regular control of the growth of mangroves in the Omaha River and in the estuary. Another 20 or so joined groups later, so that a great contingent was involved overall. Thankfully it was a nice sunny afternoon and so for two hours everyone enthusiastically set about removing the mangroves that fell within the legal size limit set by Auckland Council. A distance of close to a kilometre was worked on overall. Many hands make such things possible. The cuttings were burnt at the property of cooperative people at Whangateau. After all the mighty hard and muddy work everyone assembled at the Point Wells club at about 5.00pm for a sausage sizzle superbly cooked by Maxine Hudson and Penny Fawcett and refreshments cheerfully served by the Point Wells Club staff. It’s amazing what volunteers can accomplish – seven trailer loads in just two hours and we hope that residents continue to cull the < 60 cm seedlings around their properties or when visiting the beaches at Omaha. We are awaiting the outcome of the Unitary Plan hopefully released by Council in the next few months, which will allow the reversion of the harbour to 1948 levels of mangrove growth. Many thanks to all who turned out. There was however a small incident resulting from a misunderstanding of mangrove culling instructions. . I am sure that all will be resolved by the next issue – expected at the beginning of March. V Barber, Editor

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Have a happy and safe holiday and we look forward to catching up with you to share some Christmas cheer. Best regards and kind wishes from us both Fin & Toni 21 Queen Street Warkworth Shop 15, Mahurangi East Shopping Centre, Snells Beach

Fin Higgins Toni Beer DDI: 09 9733925 M: 021 660558 DDI: 09 9733935 M: 021 544569 E: fin.higgins@harcourts.co.nz E: toni.beer@harcourts.co.nz

Boating club – John Spooner 22 november

Figure Point Wells taken around 1953 – virtually Mangrove-less

Not All Roses in the Mangroves

By

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR

What’s Happening ………. Vintage Market, Matakana from now until Sunday 24 April 2016 Matakana Indie Markets Matakana Country Park, Matakana, Sundays 9.30am to 1.30pm – Free live music Sunday 6 December 2015 8:00am – 5:00pm Auckland Secondary Schools Downhill AKDH Downhill Club MTB Shuttles, Kraack Road, Auckland December 4 and 5: Kowhai Singers Christmas concert ‘Make a Joyful Noise’ at Puhoi Centennial Hall, Puhoi, 7.30pm on December 5 and Mahurangi East Community Centre, Snells Beach at 7.30pm on Tickets $15 from i-Site Warkworth, choir members, at the door, or phone Maggie on (09) 425-6365 December 4th, 5th & 6th: Christmas Fair and book Sale Point Wells Hall. Friday 5pm-7pm and Saturday, Sunday 9am-2pm. Inquiries, 422-7438 December 5: Warkworth Christmas parade, starts 1pm from Alnwick St December 6: Ellie and Friends Car Show at the Salty Dog Inn in Snells Beach. December 11th Matakantata Choir concert on at the Matakana Village Hall, 7.30 pm

December 28: Billy TK Jnr plays at Ascension Winery, Matakana, from 4pm to 9.30pm. Soul, rock and blues December 29 to January 3: The Great Summer Art Exhibition by the Mahurangi East Tennis Club at the Snells Beach Community Centre in Hamatama Rd, Snells Beach. Preview night Monday December 28, 7pm, with wine and nibbles. Entry $10 December 31: Highlife NYE Experience at Matakana Country Park. December 31: Music Mountain Matakana. . Saturday 9 January 2016 to Sunday 10 January 2016 A Gypsy Extravaganza The Stables Restaurant, Matakana, Wednesday 13 January 2016 Pottery Tour Morris & James Pottery, Matakana, Saturday 30 January 2016 Fat Freddy's Drop Ascension Wine Estate, Matakana, Mon 15 Feb 2016 7:00pm WASTE FREE PARENTING WORKSHOP - WITH THE NAPPY LADY OLD MASONIC HALL, WARKWORTH Horse Riding Auckland Limited, Auckland 371 Woodcocks Road School holiday Programme – Thursday 7 January 9.00am & Wednesday 20 January 9.00am PONY RIDES COFFEE GROUP FRI 29 JAN 2016 10:30AM / CHILDREN, KIDS, HOLIDAYS Bring your morning tea and join us for a fun filled morning in the countryside. Mum and Dad can help themselves to a coffee or tea March 5th Saturday Fruit Loop at the Country Park

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 3

Most of us love a long hot summer; ice-creams from the dairy, jumping off the jetties, early morning paddle boarding or cycling before the heat hits, lounging around with friends and families over a Barbie and a few cold ones; nothing better! Our gardens also flourish in this subtropical weather – as long as they don’t dry out! Even with the vast amount of rainfall we got this winter, the soils are drying out quickly, aggravated by the near-constant south-westerly winds that an El-Nino summer brings. By mid-November the soil moisture levels in the veggie garden needed topping up with extra water. By mid-December I would expect lawns and ornamental gardens to be suffering without assistance and by mid-January even larger trees and shrubs may struggle unless we get a decent summer downpour or two. Of course those lucky enough to have a bach in Point Wells probably won’t care too much, after all a brown lawn is not much different to a green lawn for playing summer cricket, parking the boat and lying about on deck chairs. Mad-keen gardeners like me though will be suffering a little angst by now. There are a bunch of techniques you can implement to help your precious plants through this period. 1. Water before the plants start to wilt. Water

stress happens well before wilting starts; wilting is nature’s way of providing the plants with their last chance of survival till the next rain, but prior to this, production of new shoots, flowers and fruit will have slowed or even stopped.

2. Water before the soil gets too dry. Our lovely peat soil tends to become hydroscopic; this is the technical term for becoming water repellent, where the water just runs off the surface. It takes much more watering to get water soaking into hydroscopic soil.

3. If the soil has become hydroscopic, the best way to revitalise it is to scrape it over with a rake,

while gen while gently sprinkling it. You may have to do this over several days before it reverts back to a more wettable state.

4. Mulch gardens with a thick layer of wood chips at the end of spring while the soil is still damp; plant roots thrive and worms and soil micro-organisms love the moist protected environment.

5. For veggie gardens and small ornamental gardens, look at permanently installing “leaky” hose or soaker hoses as these use the least water and keep the foliage dry which reduces diseases.

6. In larger ornamental gardens, mini-sprinklers save time and hassle shifting larger sprinklers, also saving water as it isn’t wasted on paths.

7. Very large gardens and lawns will probably still need to be irrigated by the most wasteful of methods; rotary, impact or fixed sprinklers.

8. If you don’t have the luxury of a bore like so many Point Wells properties do, then you may have to let your lawn die off over summer, saving your precious water (and any grey water that you can collect) for the veggie garden and any plant treasures that must be kept alive at any cost. Don’t stress; when the rains come back, so will your lawn.

9. Speaking of saving water, think about installing a water butt (plastic 200 litre drums are ideal) under each downpipe. Make sure it is covered to reduce mossie breeding potential and has both an inlet and an outlet so the surrounding area doesn’t become a bog. The water can be bucketed out; gravity fed to a nearby garden or even connected to a small pump and hose.

And while you are complaining about how dry it is, just remember, it’s not long till the dreary days of winter, when you’ll have much more water than you want and you’ll be longing for a bit of sun and warmth. So make the most of it!

BORROWING FROM THE POINT WELLS HALL

IN THE LAST TWO MONTHS WE HAVE LOST 20 WINE GLASSES FROM THE POINT WELLS HALL. IF YOU NEED TO BORROW FROM THE HALL WE ARE VERY HAPPY TO LEND – BUT PLEASE LEAVE A NOTE IN THE HALL OR CONTACT JOY BOWYER ON 422-7414

Gardening with Andrew by Andrew Steen

By

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 4

Point Wells Neighbourhood Support Update

Update Neighbourhood support communications have been relatively dormant lately as there has been little to report, good news really. It would be appreciated if we could get another few local residents to add to the personnel list below. Your name would be published to be called upon if any neighbourhood support assistance is required in the future so please keep that in mind from an availability and physical agility perspective. If it is an emergency call the Police (111) or Warkworth Police Station (09 425 8109) first. Recently local Point Wells adolescents have been letting off tuna bombs in the evening in and around Point Wells. This matter has been dealt with. If there are any neighbourhood occurrences that are concerning to any Point Wells residents please let any of the neighbourhood support personnel know. Crime statistics indicate Point Wells is one of the safest places in the country but residents need to be security conscious by locking up cars and areas of your homes

that are unattended, even if you are in the backyard or just over at the neighbours. Now that the holiday season is fast approaching, be sure to check that your property is locked up if you are going away and let someone know if you plan to be away for an extended period of time so that they can clear the mail and keep an eye on your property. Websites The local Rodney neighbourhood support website is: www.nsrodney.org.nz. There is a Police Digital Magazine “Ten One” that you can sign up to receive monthly via email http://www.police.govt.nz/subscribe/ten-one-police-magazine. Contact Please contact your neighbourhood support personnel with any Point Wells neighbourhood support enquiries, their contact details are listed below:

Ian Hutchinson 021 924 287

Warwick Rhodes: 027 494 7439 For enquiries and/or notifications of a less urgent nature, please email Ian Hutchinson on admin@hc.co.nz.

OCEANZDIRECT NOW IN POINT WELLS……. We have been residents of Point Wells for just over three months and are so pleased we made the move. Having spent almost 20 years in Kumeu with our three children it was time for a change. We have enjoyed many holidays in Baddeleys beach and fell in love with the beauty and feel of this part of the country. More recently, close family friends moved to Harbour View Road so we have spent many weekends, exploring and becoming acquainted with this lovely village. The friendly and supportive community, the walks by the ocean with our dog, coffees and ice-creams at the store, paddles up the estuary and Mel’s yoga at ‘The Club’… what a great spot!

Seven years ago, we began our Fresh Fish Home Delivery business. What started as a sport fundraiser for our son soon developed into a business covering much of Auckland. The desire for top quality, fresh seafood delivered directly to your home proved a healthy recipe. We recently teamed up with Oceanz Seafood to form Oceanz Direct giving us access to the best quality supply; ‘From our Boats to your Home’. Just a month ago we expanded our delivery zone to include Matakana, Point Wells and Omaha. On Friday afternoons simply leave out your chilly bin and we will ensure a fresh, healthy, protein packed meal is delivered direct to your home... www.oceanzdirect.co.nz

Boating club – John Spooner 22 november

BEVAN’S ARTICLE

CONNOISSEURS CLUB HISTORY – JOHN SPOONER & NGAIRE SOMEBODY

PAUL DICKSON – LEIGH PAINTERS

Mel and Carl

Robyn Alexander

Oceanzdirect

Rosalie

Yacht club

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 5

Christmas letterbox competition now offers people’s choice prize

The highly anticipated Point Wells Christmas letterbox competition is certain to result in some tense moments for keen competitors, possibly even standoffs between neighbours, but heaven forbid that there should be any acts of sabotage! This year’s competition introduces a people’s choice award for which votes can be deposited in the decorated letterbox on the deck of the Mike Pero Point Wells office between 21st and 4pm 24th December. All Point Wells residents are encouraged to vote for their choice of best letterbox. Judging day for the main competition will be Monday 21st December 2015. All letterboxes entered must be ready in all their glory by this day, although past history suggests many will be decorated earlier than the

deadline! Categories include Kiwiana, , Most outrageous, Point Wells Themed, Santa's Favourite and new this year – Night Lights Prize giving will take place on Christmas Eve - 24th December 2015 at 5pm on the grass behind the Village Hall. People can bring a blanket for sitting on. We will do the prize giving and have balloons for the children etc. Santa will make an appearance and do a lolly scramble. You are very welcome to bring a blanket, picnic hamper and drinks so you can catch up with the locals. Our judges will be Angela Wain from Mike Pero’s, Eugene our postie and artist Virginia Leonard. So make sure you are there – you never know, you might win a prize

Warkworth Music – Concerts for 2016 April 10th, Sunday 4pm, TRIO ECLAT – flute, clarinet and piano, Mahurangi College April 30th, Saturday 4pm, JELLY ROLLS – Jazz Trio – bass, piano and drums, Mahurangi College May 29th, Sunday 4pm, LAUDAMUS – Vocal Group – A programme of Folk Music from around the world, Ascension Winery July 2nd, Saturday 4pm, HAMMERS and HORSEHAIR – forte-piano and cello, Ascension Winery Sept 4th, Sunday 4pm, PETTMAN PLAYERS – string quintet, A programme of Mozart’s music, Ascension Winery Sept 30th, Friday 7.30pm, TONY LIN – piano, venue to be confirmed Oct 15th, Saturday 7.30pm, MARIMBA DUO – 2 marimbas and percussion, Matakana Village Hall www.warkworthmusic.org.nz/

Boating club – John Spooner 22 november

BEVAN’S ARTICLE

CONNOISSEURS CLUB HISTORY – JOHN SPOONER & NGAIRE SOMEBODY

PAUL DICKSON – LEIGH PAINTERS

Mel and Carl

Robyn Alexander

Oceanzdirect

Rosalie

Yacht club

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 6

Mainly Music Update …… by Rosalie Nobilo

Each Thursday morning, 10am to 11am Mainly Music takes place at the Point Wells Club (formerly the Point Wells Bowling Club) during school term time. It is run by Jo Trotter, Rosalie Nobilo and Annette Sharp, with the invaluable voluntary help given by Margaret McCullough. It is a fun time with crafts, stories, action songs and dances (where we use musical instrument and props) and morning tea is provided for both children and parent. It is free the first time but is $3 a session after that. We have had a good year, though winter illness hit us all quite hard. It has been wonderful to welcome new families and many new babies. The children have lots of fun, singing and dancing. They especially enjoy the bubble machine and the companionship of the other

children. The parents/grandparents/caregivers also enjoy getting together. Being an ex teacher of junior children, I like to prepare simple craft activities for the children which they love (parents too!). We are making Christmas things at the moment. I would like to thank all who come along for the help they give us with setting up for Mainly Music and tidying up at the end. We couldn’t manage without it. I would especially like to thank Margaret . Her help each week is invaluable. She has assisted us for many years and we really appreciate her. Thank you to all who come along each week. We wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a great New Year. God Bless – Rosalie Nobilo, Jo Trotter and Annette Sharp.

Morning Tea at the Club by Rosalie Nobilo

On the third Tuesday of each month, February to November, Geraldine Rodgers, Angela McIntyre and Brenda Robinson run a special morning at the Point Wells Club at 10am with a guest speaker. It is wonderful social gathering where all are welcome. The morning tea is always delicious and the speakers are very interesting and informative. We have had Lynset McPhun who is a world renowned artist, with a very interesting life story. Nolene Cranston shared her experiences as part of our local fire fighting team, giving us helpful information should we be faced with fire. Angela went to the flower festival in Noto, Sicily and shared her amazing photos in a slide show. Heather Skeates showed us how she makes her beautiful flaxwork creations and Julie Snowsill told us of her interesting life in Abu Dhabi.

Geraldine, Angela and Brenda do an amazing job sourcing really interesting speakers (most of whom are locals) and providing a lovely morning tea. Point Wells is a unique village and the kindness and support we show each other is special. This group creates warm companionship where those who attend have a lovely time interacting with each other, adding to the joy that makes Point Wells special. If you would like to attend next year or have something interesting to share contact Geraldine on 422-9489

Boating club – John Spooner 22 november

BEVAN’S ARTICLE

CONNOISSEURS CLUB HISTORY – JOHN SPOONER & NGAIRE SOMEBODY

PAUL DICKSON – LEIGH PAINTERS

Mel and Carl

Robyn Alexander

Oceanzdirect

Rosalie

Yacht club

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR

Traffic Survey Follow Up In response to our traffic survey, we have been developing ideas for street improvements. We are doing this in line with the main feedback theme of safety, retention of the garden village feel, and calming traffic without overbearing traffic control measures. We are focusing on "beautification" of Pt Wells Road in order to achieve traffic calming. Current international best practice for smaller communities has shown that street beautification can result in calmer safer traffic. The developer of the new subdivision, Mark Hurt, has kindly offered to support us which has included assistance from his landscape designer Linda Falconer. Linda is developing a planting scheme specifically for Point Wells. This would use a palette of plants and roadside planting designed to incorporate existing parking, potential for future footpaths and access to utilities. We are aiming to have the initial planting scheme ready for community feedback by mid December this year. The plan will be available in the Point Wells Store, the Point Wells Library, on the Point Wells website and via email for those who would like a personal copy. Once we get some general agreement, our intention is to do three demonstration projects:

the area around the Point Wells Store - focus is on improving safety, utility and beautification

the wide grass verge adjacent to the new subdivision (beside the green utility box)

the area where we enter Pt Wells (at the 50km sign) - focus on demarcation of entrance to village, calming traffic with a view to cyclists crossing shortly after the sign for the new cycle-path to Matakana Country Farm Park

The proposed planting scheme could be duplicated around Pt Wells if residents so wish. We will provide a finalised plan to Auckland City Council to ensure their planting activities agree with our plan. For any enquiries/suggestions in the meantime please contact Gera Verheul. Gera Verheul, Tilly Woods, Bevan Woodward, Christine Hill geraverheul@gmail.com Ph 422 9507

Update re Point Wells to Matakana Country Park Pathway.

We will shortly be delivering information on the proposed pathway to the adjacent property owners along Pt Wells Road and Omaha Flats Road. The funding arrangements to construct this 2 kilometre shared path are proceeding between Auckland

Transport and Matakana Community Trails Trust, hopefully to be concluded soon. When construction starts we'll need volunteers to help out with the traffic control (the Stop/Go signs), please contact Bevan on 422 9507 if you're interested in being rostered on for a few hours.

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 8

We love welcoming new residents and holiday makers to our friendly little village at the Point, but we do have some

customs (no not those sort of customs – we’re not that isolated!) here that might seem a little strange to people from

other parts of the country. Here are a few tips to help you get along:

• Those odd gestures from other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians aren’t intended to be offensive, they’re actually a greeting; in Point Wells, once you’ve been seen a few times, residents will sometimes wave at you. The longer you live here, the more waves you’ll tend to get as more people recognise the car/bike/dog you’re with. It’s considered polite to wave back, except if you’re preoccupied with driving, looking at flowers etc. Unless you know someone very well, other hand gestures may be misinterpreted, so best refrain from using these in the Point.

• The skinny roads in the Point are considered shared, as aside from the main road in, there are few footpaths and not enough room for two cars to pass easily. That means there may be a zimmer frame or a ride-on mower to negotiate past; certainly there will probably be some kids on bikes and a dog or two. Trust me, your SUV is capable of being driven with one wheel on the grass verge, it won’t sink, get stuck and it probably won’t even get dirty!

• Where there is a cycle path, please use it. Some residents have put in a lot of time and effort getting these set up and although you may feel your Lycra-clad physique only suits Tour de France style road-racing, everyone will be happier and safer if you stay on the cycle track.

• That odd daily migration down to the water’s edge isn’t a lemming-like suicide mission. It’s the locals that know an incoming tide means floating in gorgeously warm water that has come in over the hot sands. Join us and you’ll experience one of life’s great pleasures while the kids (and parents) burn some energy and challenge themselves by jumping off the jetties (and the treetops).

• Speaking of jumping, do check the water level first and look for obstacles; this harbour is renowned for its clear water, but looks are deceiving and we hate seeing anyone injure themselves.

• Like the roads, the boat ramp area is a shared zone. It’s the best beach for little ones to swim

from and beginners to take kayaks and paddle boards out. Boats with motors or sails need to be very careful and patient, as little heads are hard to see, especially if they are underwater with a snorkel on.

• That’s also one reason for the speed limits posted around the harbour. The other is that our riverbanks are sensitive to erosion, so blasting down the estuary at full speed on your new Jet-ski is likely to get a fairly strong reaction, not the least being not-so-friendly hand gestures.

• We have an eclectic mix of baches, homes and mansions on sections ranging from 800sqm to several hectares. We also have a fairly eclectic mix of residents. This all makes for a bit of a melting pot of different approaches to living and is one of the features of this village that makes it interesting. Before you get your dander up about something a neighbour is doing/not doing to their property, please remember that old adage “My home is my castle” and ask yourself “does this really affect me enough to stick my nose in?”

• On the other side of the coin, please consider others when you are doing something that might annoy. The occasional loud party that goes to midnight is probably not going to be a major issue (it’s a good idea to invite your neighbours – most of us like a few drinks!), but one that goes to 5am certainly will be. Some construction materials left on the verge for a few weeks is probably OK, but plastic and other rubbish blowing down the road is not cool.

• On the subject of rubbish, please don’t dump fish waste in the harbour; it attracts stingrays which puts swimmers in danger. Likewise, don’t dump it in council bins, this creates smell and attracts vermin; instead, just freeze it until the next rubbish day (which is quite conveniently Monday morning).

• And finally, support your local events, organisations, clubs and businesses; they and the people that run them are the glue that bind the village and make it what it is.

Above all, remember that this is a friendly little village where most of us know each other; we’re not just another faceless suburb of Auckland City nor do we want to become one. If we respect each other and the village we live in, we’ll all enjoy living here that much more.

New to the Point……. by Andrew Steen

By

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 9

Stopping off in Bali on the way to a wedding in Java was to be the beginning of my interest and admiration with the art and culture of the Balinese, it was also the kick start for a new business venture that combined my love of gardening and design in general.

Bali garden (www.balihacienda.com) is a small showcase of imported items sourced each year on annual trips to Bali. Whilst there I photograph items of interest, and with my trusted Balinese agent and driver we stop at out of the way places while I ‘pick’ over unique items I think maybe of interest to clients in NZ. I try to avoid mainstream items as I cannot compete on price against the larger importers back in NZ. Along the way I have added pieces from my travels to Mexico, India and other locations which I feel complement what is currently on offer in the showroom. The small Balinese inspired garden I use as my showroom is now three years old; it is still in its infancy and continues to evolve. I am encouraged by the positive feedback I receive from likeminded gardeners, as for me it is the learning experience as well.

I open the garden and showroom at 292 Point Wells Road from October through to April between 11 and 4 pm or by appointment, and it is lovely to share the space with the many cyclists and walkers who come through, with many people commenting on the tranquility it offers away from the bustle. Some customers have asked about the possibility of a cafe on site – but this is not where my interest is. I intend to continue to evolve as a garden based entity with the importing side of things forming an integral part of my operation. Our adjoining horticultural activities include large specimen palm supply to a number of landscape designers/architects. My next shipment is due in early December and I look forward to welcoming you to my small and happy space over the summer months.

My Bali Inspired Garden by Robyn Alexander

By

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR

It’s been great to see excellent support at the screenings of the Rugby World Cup together with other events such as '500' Card evenings, Melbourne Cup Cocktail dinner and Trivial Pursuit as these events not only add value to your membership benefits but reinforce our goal of the Club being known as a broadly based community facility. Obviously the rugby result was absolutely fantastic and demonstrates how a clear vision, team work, individuals taking ownership and excellent leadership all contribute to high level outcomes. In fact you can apply these values to any organization and at the risk of being accused of bias I believe our current committee rates very well in this regard. The upgrade to Club facilities has resulted in a couple of organisations wishing to rent out the Club rooms and

Bowling Green for staff Christmas parties in early December. Both of these events will operate from around midday to very early in the evening and given they are based locally become a good opportunity to further build on membership. As with any use of our facilities, we have reinforced to the hirers that the Committee is very conscious of not disturbing neighbours. Thanks to a lot of hard work by Cecil Bowyer and his team of helpers the Bowling Green is looking in great shape with excellent coverage apart from a few areas where Rabbits have had a go. This is a credit to Cecil in particular as he has overcome many hurdles to achieve this standard. It’s also important to remember that every time we play Bowls, the green must be mown at least once and usually rolled so there is a lot of ongoing work required to ensure the playing surface is suitable on an ongoing basis. The Bowling program is well underway with monthly tournaments. If interested in playing please direct any enquiries to Meralee (4230033) or Margaret (4229077).

Gordon Simpson, Club President

Please support our sponsors -

Garden Circle Report

November 2015

Spring is the time for garden outings so in October the Garden Circle set off by bus to visit “Woodbridge” in Coatesville. Christine and Tony Peak have over a period of 20 years transformed farm paddocks into a beautiful garden landscape. The garden has many interesting areas including lawns and flowers by the house, a herb and vegetable potager, a bog garden with pond, a Mediterranean dry garden, an olive grove set in a wildflower meadow and a woodland garden with a good display of rhododendrons. We were fortunate to see the wisteria in full bloom and there

were many other delights around the garden. After a relaxing and tasty lunch we moved on to “Cherry Tree”, a private garden in Dairy Flat. This garden featured many orchids planted in a natural environment and an old water tank completely disguised by plants. There was much to enjoy at both gardens and plenty of ideas to bring home to Point Wells. The year’s activities will conclude with our Christmas lunch on December 3rd

Bramble Cafe

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 11

Yoga with Mel at the Club

Wednesday 10am - 11am

Yoga for Mums (and Dads!)

This class is open to everyone, but especially parents with babies and toddlers as there is a nanny to help out.

Saturday 8.30am - 9.30am

Ashtanga Yoga Class

A general class for beginners and more advanced.

Classes are one hour and $15

Please phone Mel for further details on 021-960-225

Use tongs to turn the meat – this

will help avoid juices escaping

Season at the last minute – it is

important to season with salt at the

last minute to avoid drying out the

meat.

Don’t overcrowd the barbeque – this

will reduce the heat and cause the

meat to stew.

Rest – resting the meat once cooked

is one of the most important steps

as it enables the temperature to

even out the meat fibres to relax

and reabsorb some of the juices.

BEST CUTS FOR BARBEQUING:

Beef: Scotch fillet, sirloin, rump, minute steaks, eye fillet and schnitzel.

Lamb: Backstrap, butterflied leg, schnitzel, leg steaks, loin chops, rump, shoulder chops and ribs.

HOW DO I KNOW WHEN MY STEAKS ARE READY?

Minutes per side

Internal description

Touch test

Rare 2 Red colour,

moist, red juices

Very soft

Medium rate

3 - 4 Lighter red colour, moist,

pink juices

Soft and

springy

Medium 4 – 6 Pink colour, moist,

clear to pink juices

Firm and

springy

Well done

2 – 4, reduce

heat then 4 -

6

Stone grey colour, dry, no sign of

pink juices

Very Firm

Thanks to New Zealand Beef and Lamb

TIPS FOR BARBECUING

SNELLS BEACH GALA DAY

The Snells Beach Ratepayers and Residents Association are holding a family gala on Sunday 7 February 10.00-3pm at Ariki Reserve (Ariki Drive: the first street on the left past the Gull petrol station.)

The aim is to have a fun filled community day AND raise $87,000 for playground equipment for the Sunrise Boulevard playground

To date we have over 50 stallholders and a range of children's activities such as a bouncy castle, face painting, golf games, car rides.

We have an extensive publicity campaign organised and have 3,000 pamphlets that will be delivered to householders in early February. We also have road signs produced which will be installed in early January. So watch out for those reminders!!

If you are interested in having a stall please call Bryan Jackson on 425-9094.

The application form can be found on our website www.ptwellsvillage.org

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR

NEWS FROM THE CROQUET CLUB

Warkworth & Districts Croquet Club host a Golf Croquet tournament each year, sponsored generously by Summerset Village. This year we had players from Maungakaramea, Waipu, Takapuna and Warkworth clubs. In first place with 6 wins was Jean Tata (Waipu), and Julie Trott (Mangakaramea). Second with 5 wins was Heather Metcalfe (Warkworth) and Brian Trott (Maungakaramea). Third place went to Ronnie Richardson (Takapuna) and Linda Small (Waipu). We were blessed with a beautiful spring day, the lawns were in perfect condition and alive with laughter. The day was completed

with a delicious afternoon tea . A good number of Club members came along to cheer on the players – including Jan Fursdon who has recently made a good recovery from a major stroke and it was very special to have her attend.

Heather Metcalfe, Warkworth Club

2016 Summer Playing Schedule

VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS VERY WELCOME Golf Croquet Association Croquet Monday 9.15am for 9.30am start Monday 12.45pm for 1pm start. Thursday 12.45pm for 1pm start, Wednesday – all day except Jan – March Twilight 3.45pm for 4pm start. 9.15am for 9.30am start Saturday 12.45pm for 1pm start 12.45pm for 1 pm start

Saturday 9.15am for 9.30am start

Ceramics by Carl Scott Carl has lived the most part of his life in the Matakana area. He now has a family and works from a home based studio. His passion for pottery grew as his experience widened in the art of clay. The exploration and development of unique shapes and glaze became a focus where the pieces acquire a special artistic quality, quite intrinsic to the artist himself. The exquisite range of functional bowls and platters which Carl creates are all hand crafted and offer a natural character and beauty unique to the methods he uses - each item the result of acquired knowledge and experience, a fine balance of clay preparation, glaze mixing and firing all under the watchful eye and decision making of an artist at work. Carl Scott offers a selection of bowls for sale from Oasis Studio, Bali Garden, Art Matakana and Little & Local Café, or you may wish to individualise your choice and he will make one especially for you. 021-134-1499 or Facebook.com/carlscottceramics

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 13

TWO DIFFERENT DOCTORS' OFFICES

Boy, if this doesn't hit the nail on the head, I don't know what does! Two patients limp into two different medical clinics with the same complaint? Both have trouble walking and appear to require a hip replacement.

The FIRST patient is examined within the hour, is x-rayed the same day and has a time booked for surgery the following week.

The SECOND sees his family doctor after waiting 3 weeks for an appointment, then waits 8 weeks to see a specialist, then gets an x-ray, which isn't reviewed for another week and finally has his surgery scheduled for 6 months from then.

Why the different treatment for the two patients?

The FIRST is a Golden Retriever. The SECOND is a Senior Citizen.

Next time take me to a vet!

Book issues continue to climb as new members join the Library. We have purchased more new books this month and they will be distributed onto the shelves over the next few weeks. The Library will be holding a book sale of used books during the Christmas Craft Fair early December so come and grab some reading for your Christmas break. Junior Time will recommence in February next year once the new school term has started. It will now be on alternate Monday mornings from 9.30am to 10.30am. This time is for pre school children and toddlers with a parent or adult, to enjoy the Library in their own way, The children can enjoy stories read to them and there will be activities should they want to join in. A timetable of dates will be in the Library for you to take away. For further information you may contact Rae...ph. 0274 392 025 or rae@flash.co.nz The Library committee would like to wish you all a safe and Merry Christmas.

Meralee Simpson

LIBRARY NEWS

We say …don’t forget to go to the A&P Show

We say ……………….. There are several new attractions for children and adults at the 149th Warkworth A&P Show sponsored by Bayleys on Saturday 23rd January – there will be a gumboot throwing competition under the jurisdiction of the NZ Boot Throwing Association in Taihape and golf ball pitching into the Warkworth Collision Repairs open topped car. There will also be Children’s Cooking Shows with the Bubble Muffin Kids Cooking Club throughout the day for children aged from 5 – 12. We have arranged some great new sideshows and entertainment for the children as well as Cruzin’ Cars, water slide and water balls; the Grand National Sheeplechase will also be there again. The Fire Service will show their educational and exciting fire prevention demonstration and Doug the Digger will be there too. Then there will be all the usual attractions such as cattle and alpaca classes, show jumping competitions, live music and the indoor section for home produce. There will be a very full selection of local businesses that will be keen to show off their products. All of this will be compered by Te Radar who will be attending his fourth Warkworth Show.

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 14

POINT WELLS CLUB – BOWLS PROGRAMME 2015 2016

All Games played at Point Wells are in Mufti. All members are welcome to play whether they have played bowls before or not. Bowls will be provided for those who don't have bowls. Flat soled shoes are required. There will be a small fee of $2.00p.p for players except on Open Days when all residents will be invited to come and participate. This will usually be followed by a sausage sizzle. Mini Tournaments. There are 8 planned for the season. If 12 people or more participate a Tournament of 3 games of 4 ends will be played and a Trophy awarded to the winners. If there are insufficient players a fun roll up will occur instead. The Organiser of the day has the right to change the format of play depending on numbers. It is important for those thinking they may wish to participate to advise the Club email ptwellsbc@gmail.com or on the Entry sheets which are held in a folder by the Bar in case the Tournament is cancelled due to weather. The Draw will be done on the day at the time specified so attendance by the listed time is necessary. Play will be delayed slightly to enable this to happen but will enable players to test the Green. If your name isn't on the entry sheets or you haven't made contact it will be assumed you don't wish to play. The Green is available to play on at any time except when a Green closed sign is on the fence by the gate. Green will not be rolled for impromptu roll ups. Please also read the blackboard erected on the outside of the Club house for Green Keeper instructions on the preferred rink to use on any given day. Bowls are available for people to play during Bar opening hours should they wish...just see a Committee member Wednesday 16 December 4pm start followed by a Pot luck Christmas dinner 2016 Wednesday 6 January OPEN DAY from 3pm Wednesday 19 January 3pm start Saturday 6 February 3pm start Saturday 5 March 3pm start Saturday 2 April 3pm start Prize giving will follow the AGM in June

Annie and family - Our thoughts are with you at this very sad time.

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 15

The PWCRA has had a busy spring working on a range of fronts to improve the place in which we live, and the ways in which we can influence its development. A sub-committee of Christine Hill, Pam Mitchell and Brian Sewell, has been working this year on the development of a strategic plan to better manage our approach to strategic issues for the community, with the aim of the PWCRA board acting in more of a governance role, overseeing a range of activities and endeavours. Each of these focus areas is to be operated as a ‘subcommittee’, with set goals and interim targets, around which they regularly report to the board on progress. Secretary Mike Bradbury and Treasurer Penny Fawcett will assist by operating a tactical subcommittee that provides the best database of names and addresses across the community, and with clear, activity-based budgets that feed into targeted fundraising for specific projects. Currently the library and the hall committee have established themselves in this form, as effective sub-committees of the PWCRA board, , and we have identified five top priorities from our strategic planning that will also be subcommittees led by members of the board. These are:

Riverside drive bank erosion, led by Brian Sewell

Road safety and quality led by Christine Hill

Natural disaster management led by Maxine Hudson, in full coordination with existing efforts by other community groups

Mangrove controlled by Laurence Eyres

Collaboration with wider community groups led by Graeme Beals and working with Vice President Laurence Eyres.

It is through this last committee that we will mostly be dealing with Council and community boards and to that end, Vice President Laurence Eyres and I have been having regular meetings with the Omaha and Matakana Presidents, and now have meetings established with Council heads, to represent our regional issues to Council in a coordinated way and to try to get the region recognised as needing approval to progress, more than funding in many situations. On the Road safety front we also plan to work closely with the committee being run by ex President and roading consultant Bevan Woodward in improving our local roads, and with the Walkway group headed by Alison Roe, that is well advanced in getting the walkway to the Country Park approved. PWCRA board members serve on both to ensure there is no reinvention of wheels. By February we are going to be seeking to have our subcommittees up and running with targets in place and we would be delighted to hear from anyone who may like to serve on any of those committees as sub-committee members only. Please email me at janegraemebeals@gmail.com to express your interest. Meanwhile, mangroves are being cleared thanks to Laurence’s efforts and the willingness of the community to get involved, and progress is being made on all of these issues to some degree or other as we move towards this structure in full. Have a wonderful Christmas season and a lovely summer. See you in the New Year.

Chairman’s Report from PWCRA by Graeme Beals

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 16

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 17

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 18

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 19

POINT WELLS CLUBS AND SERVICES GUIDE – updated 3 / 11 / 15

Point Wells Community & Ratepayers Association Incorporated

President Graeme Beals 423-0093

Vice President Laurence Eyres 422-9573

Secretary Mike Bradbury 422-9119

Treasurer Penny Fawcett 422-9191

Library: Chairperson Meralee Simpson 423-0033

Opening Hours: Monday 7pm – 8pm

Wednesday 10am – 12pm

Friday 3pm – 5pm

Saturday 10am – 12 pm

Boating Club: Commodore Rick Reid 422-7561

Treasurer John Spooner 422-9366

Connoisseurs Club: 3th Thursday each month Noeline Cranston 422-9645

6.00pm Pot Luck Dinner – Gold Coin Donation

Garden Circle: President Ruth Eyres 422-9573

Secretary Judy Macready 422-9427

4th Thursday each month

Warkworth & Districts Croquet President Anne Murphy 425-5211

Civil Defence Co-ordinator Noeline Cranston 422-9645

Neighbourhood Watch 26 Riverside Drive Ian Hutchinson 422-9640

Mainly Music Thursdays 10am-12pm Joanna Trotter 422-7283

Rosalie Nobilo 422-7296

Morning Tea at the Club 3rd Tuesday Geraldine Rodgers 422-9489

The Point Wells Club President Gordon Simpson 423-0033

Secretary Margaret Whitmore 422-9077

Club At The Point Enquiries Geraldine Rodgers 422-9489

Point Wells General Store Monday & Tuesday 8.00am – 5.30pm 422-7007

TAKEAWAYS from 5pm Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday

8.00am -7.30pm OPEN SEVEN DAYS

– Wednesday to Sunday Friday & Saturday 8.00am – 8.00pm

Yoga with Mel @ the Club Wednesday 10am-11am Yoga for Mums (and Dads!) 021-960-225

Saturday 8.30am – 9.30am Ashtanga Yoga Class

Hall Booking Officer: Hall bookings office hours only Warkworth office 09-301-0101

General Enquiries Joy Bowyer 422-7414

Meralee Simpson 423-0033

Point Wells Crier Editors Allan &Vanessa Barber 422-9515

thepointwellscrier@gmail.com 0274-758-992

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME SEVEN – ISSUE FOUR 20

POINT WELLS COMMUNITY AND RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED

SUBCRIPTION/MEMBERSHIP FORM

I/We ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. (Surname) (First Name)

Of ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. (Street Address)

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Phone: …………………………………………………………. Email: …………………………………………………………………… We wish to renew/apply for membership of the Point Wells Community and Ratepayers Association Incorporated and enclose my/our fee of $10.00 per single or $20 per family. Signed: …………………………………………………………………………. Date: …………/…………/…………… Payment: By mail The Treasurer PWCRA c/o Penny Fawcett, 231 Point Wells Road, RD6, Warkworth Direct Credit ASB Warkworth 12 3095 0090996 – Reference – Your name Crier Delivery: If you would prefer to have your copies of the POINT WELLS CRIER sent electronically to your above email address please

mark this box.

EDITORS: ALLAN AND VANESSA BARBER

PHONE: 09-422-9515

MOBILE: 0274-758-992

EMAIL: THEPOINTWELLSCRIER@GMAIL.COM

WEBSITE: WWW.PTWELLSVILLAGE.ORG

USEFUL NUMBERS:

ALL EMERGENCIES: 111 RODNEY DISTRICT COUNCIL INCLUDING DOG RANGER, NOISE CONTROL, CIVIL DEFENCE 24 HOURS – 0800-426-5169 MATAKANA INFORMATION CENTRE: 422-7433 I SITE WARKWORTH INFORMATON OFFICE: 425-9081 WARKWORTH POLICE STATION: 425-8109

The Point Wells Crier is a quarterly newsletter but the website is constantly updated to don’t forget to check it out in between issues of the newsletter – www.ptwellsvillage.org. Advertisers: If you would like to place an advertisement or editorial please email thepointwellscrier@gmail.com or phone 09-422-9515. Let us know what is happening in your area of Point Wells. Next edition will be published in early March Welcome to our new advertisers: Leigh Painters (who actually live in Waimanu Place): Welcome back to the Point Wells Store and Oceanzdirect