THANK YOU POINT WELLS COMMUNITY FROM THE …local politicians so we get a clean river and harbour....

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME NINE – ISSUE THREE

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THE POINT WELLS CRIER

VOLUME NINE – ISSUE THREE

COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER FOR THE GARDEN VILLAGE OF RODNEY SPRING 2017

THANK YOU POINT WELLS COMMUNITY

FROM THE CHILDREN!! For supporting various children’s fundraising initiatives during the winter

months. There has been fundraising for soccer, hockey, netball, rugby, surf

lifesaving and world vision.

The point wells community has been incredibly generous and the point wells kids

thank you!

More news from the children inside



President and his Committee’s Report

Pest Control: We are delighted to have launched our Pest-free Point program, with the installation of the ring of steel on the point, and the arrival of the Associate Minister of the environment to inspect. (See Laurence’s later full article.

Playground: Our new playground installation is looking good with the local community piece of equipment installed along with the other two. Judging by the holes beneath the swings, the facility is already getting plenty of use. A seat and a tree are in process to complete this part of the development plan in this area of the reserve.

Planting: Laurence and a trusty team replanted a number of the salt resistant species on the Point, where the first lot had been eaten by rabbits, mowed off by the mower man, or drowned.

Traffic / roading / ‘Slow Village’: Your committee feel that the Point area is an area of special significance in our catchment, and that we should not just have trucks arriving unannounced to repair roads in whatever form all other similar roads are treated. To this end we have commissioned Bevan Woodward, who lives in the village and specialises in this sort of work) to help us prepare a blueprint for Auckland Transport, on how we would like our roads to look. Bevan’s suggestions have been circulated to the committee and will soon be opened to the community for input. Some of its proposals include:

• Divide the village into the main road and roads without footpaths – regarding these as village lanes.

• Reduce the vehicle speed limit in the lanes.

• Use street furniture and markings to create a special village feel area around the shop and domain. Currently we have some designs being worked on by an urban planner and a graphic designer.

Water Quality: Laurence Eyres, our treasurer has continued, the process of testing the river in various spots and various

weathers to gain a better understanding of the levels of pollutants and where they are arising from. We have submitted our early results to Council for comment and got a perfunctory response. We will continue to pursue this matter. More sampling and analysis is planned as soon as the tides and weather permit. This topic of water quality is a political hot potato and we should all make mileage out of it with the local politicians so we get a clean river and harbour. It’s not that difficult, stop septic tank leakage and cows defecating in the river.

Hall paint: Though some people have indicated that they are less than overawed at the colour scheme, (the Council palette is very limited) the hall has been painted in a serviceable sandy colour at Council expense. The interior is expected to be painted in the near future.

Tuning piano / removal of the organ: Heather Read kindly allowed us to sell her electric organ from the hall, and to use the proceeds to have the piano tuned. The organ has gone to a young family. Many thanks to Heather and Ellie from our committee.

THE POINT WELLS CRIER VOLUME NINE – ISSUE THREE | 3


Mangrove Management: It is almost time for the pre-Christmas mangrove plucking-bee. It is very gratifying to see so many people out on the sands at low tide maintaining what has so far been achieved, so that we can target new areas in future working bees.

Our intention is not to clear large mangroves in general, but to stop the spread of mangroves across the open areas around the point.

We are, however, investigating the cost of obtaining an open and ongoing consent to maintain the river channel open to the waterfall and wide enough for boats to pass. This is one of the popular kayak trips of the harbour and losing its amenity value is not seen as desirable for the area. Click here for a very interesting study on the return of bird life following the clearing of mangroves in Tauranga harbour.

Riverside Erosion: Brian Sewell continues to pursue this work – see his report later in this edition.

Update on local cycle/walkway initiatives. Pump track: We were approached by a group of local youths with an ambition to set up a bicycle pump track in the area. We have approached Omaha and Matakana citizen groups and they too are keen to see something of this nature in easy reach. Accordingly, we have been working with Watercare to get permission to build have one alongside the bike track to Matakana off the end of Jones Road. This seems to be approved on the basis that we don’t involve them, so work is continuing towards that goal. Anyone interested in being involved, please let me know. [email protected]

Games Nights: As a committee, we have been wondering whether there is a need locally for a youth club night once a week, where we open the hall and offer table tennis, pool, foosball and other games and facilities we have or can acquire. We would be very keen to hear feedback the community as to whether and when this is likely to be a success, and whether there is anyone – maybe a small group of friends – who would be happy to manage it. Please email me at [email protected] with your thoughts.

Subscriptions: Whilst we have had pleasing responses to our subscription fee, there are still many subs outstanding. We are working across a wide area for the good of the community and very much appreciate your financial support. If you are unsure whether you have paid or not, please email Laurence at [email protected] to check.

https://www.dropbox.com/preview/Mangroves.docx

mailto:[email protected]





New bike racks needed: We would like to get some nice smart new bike racks for near the store, at the park, and by the boat ramp, as bikes are becoming more popular but, if poorly housed, can be a trip and access hazard. If anyone would like to donate the funds or labour to acquire a set, or some sets, please contact me [email protected]

Shopping bag sewing session: A big thankyou to committee member Tracy Roe who organised the sewing sessions to create several hundred bags to help raise consciousness about plastic packaging, and to help users of the Store move away from plastic bags. Thanks also to Becky and her team at the Store for helping make this work.

Connoisseurs Club: Good attendance continues at this enjoyable monthly community pot luck dinner which is held every third Thursday of the month, and culminates with the Christmas function in November. This event is for all adults in the community, so if you have not been before and are feeling shy, please email me and I’ll arrange for someone to bring you and introduce you. It is a very good way of connecting with neighbours. [email protected]

Finally, spring has sprung and your committee wishes you joy as your plants and animals flourish anew, and we look with anticipation towards fully enjoying our beautiful waterways once more. Best wishes Graeme Beals and his committee

So ……….Where the Bloody Hell Are You ? (Apologies to Australian Tourism 2006) A dilemma we in the (Matakana) Fire and Emergency Service more than occasionally face is finding the property that made an emergency call – especially for medical callouts at night time. Quite often there may only be one or two people at that address, so there may not be a person available to go out onto the street and indicate the exact house / premises location. If at night, it is very helpful to at least put on your front porch light. Another problem, especially in Point Wells, and some parts of Jones Road, is that a lot of houses are located down lanes. For the convenience of the Rural Delivery Service there may be a group of letter boxes at the head of a lane, or at a single location in the street, but the Emergency Services (including an ambulance) need to be able to locate the house with the emergency as soon as possible. Precious time can be wasted searching for the location of the emergency. So to help us respond as quickly as possible to your emergency, could you check that you comply with the following 1) If your house is on the street check that your letter box / house is clearly numbered. It is possible to buy luminescent numbers which are easily seen at night. 2) If you live down a lane then could you also place your number at the entrance to your property, and also on or adjacent to your front door. 3) If you are able to, at night time, depending on the availability of persons, could you also turn on your porch

light.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rn0lwGk4u9o



Point Wells Library News We are pleased to welcome Julia Snelling on to the library committee bringing our number to five. We are sure that we will be tapping into Julia’s expertise often. Fiction: We have been purchasing new titles, which is always exciting, one of which is Lucy and the Octopus by Stephen Rowley. This is a very different book and takes a little getting into to, but a good read if you persevere. It is all about a man who loves his dog to bits and of course an octopus. This poor man who is a writer has a dachshund called Lucy and she is his only mate. She is not well. We will say no more except it is a really good read. Non Fiction: Biographies are very popular and we try to keep our shelves up to date for you. Have you read?

• Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen

• Working Class Boy - Jimmy Barnes

• Here Again – Becoming Meryl Streep

• Being Chinese – Helene Wong

• The A – Z of Meads Children’s Books: Our younger readers may have noticed that some popular series are now shelved together on the higher shelf. We hope that this is easier to find favourites. They will be swapped around every so often. A new author to our library is Anna Brandford with her Violet Mackerel series.

Happy Reading from the Library Team

Garden Circle Lynda Hallinan was the guest speaker at the July meeting of the Garden Circle attended by a record 60 people. She entertained us with interesting anecdotes while she very capably made a Berry Jam flavoured with Amaretto. Samples of the jam were available to taste and she gave away the pots to people who bought her book “Jam Sessions at Foggydale Farm”.

Other interesting speakers have been Janice Chandler talking about Uzbekistan and the Silk Road and our own Julie Snowsill who described to us what life was like as an ex-pat in Abu Dhabi.

We are now looking forward to Spring, brighter weather and the opportunity to make garden visits. In September, we will go to “Omaio”, the garden of Liz Morrow in Whitmore Road and in October we have a bus trip planned to Dale Harvey’s “Quarter Acre Paradise” in Mangere and the Auckland Botanical Gardens.

Lynda Hallinan



Obituaries:

DAVID LAKINS HART by Heather Reid Peacefully and after a long battle David passed away on the 14th August 2017 at his home in Point Wells. He was 77 years old. Loving husband of Robyn, treasured father of Michael & Michelle, and Nicola and Kevin, grandy of Mia, Lachlan, Caitlin, Liam and Chloe. David was a long time resident of Dunbar Road in Point Wells. He and Robyn bought the home of “Mr. Wells” (father of Point Wells) and have spent many memorable years here, enjoying all that Point Wells has to offer. David’s love of fishing saw him out most weekends with Ian, Rick & Terry pulling in the big ones. Fishing 30 years ago was prolific and they never came home empty handed. Dave also won the Point Wells Fishing and Boating club Shield many times for the largest snapper for the season. As a member of Omaha Golf Club David enjoyed playing with the Monday and Wednesday old boys and he was a mean hand at playing bowls at the Point Wells Bowling club for many years. David sponsored many fun tournaments and many of us were recipients of his generosity from New Zealand Merchants “Cloud 9”. David also loved his red wine, well before that it was rum, but in later years red wine took over and many a tall tale was told over a glass or three! An avid reader of thrillers, David has kept the Point Wells Library well stocked with all the latest editions. They will miss his contributions greatly. So, David we will all miss you, your sense of humour and your daily trips (on your moped) up to the dairy. He never did like to walk too far! A memorial service celebrating David’s life was held at the Point Wells Hall,Point Wells road on Saturday 26th August 2017 at 11.00am. “Now he can continue fishing and enjoy a glass of red wine” Our condolences to Robyn and all the family; you will long be remembered, in Dunbar Road especially. Rest in Peace.



Point Wells protected against predators

A hardworking group of residents has successfully introduced predator traps all the way around the point from the boat ramp to a line that cuts across Point Wells Road at Maltby Corner from the harbour to the river. There has already been evidence of native birds returning to people’s gardens in the village. This has been achieved with the financial help and encouragement of the Forest Bridge Trust which coordinates pest protection programmes in the Hoteo catchment area as far north as Mangawhai Heads to Tapora in the west and Wenderholm in the south. In

July Associate Minister for the Environment, Scott Simpson, accompanied by Forest Bridge Trust chairman Kevin Adshead, announced the award of $300,000 for the Hoteo Catchment Project to a gathering of committed conservationists and interested locals at the Point Wells Hall. Since 2010 total grants of $12.3 million have been awarded to local and national groups from the Community Environment Fund so communities can carry out projects to contribute to the vision of predator free New Zealand by 2050.

The Minister said it was important for local communities to run their own programmes starting with defendable geographies such as a peninsula. He admitted that, without this type of progress first, it would be even harder to achieve complete eradication, especially since this would require technologies not yet known. It was particularly beneficial for organisations like Forest Bridge Trust to introduce the programme to schools which meant the children would tell their parents, generating a snowball effect. He cited the Forest Bridge Trust’s activities in our area as a great example of how local

communities could come together to change practices for the protection of local bush and encourage the return and spread of local birds. There may be financial help and training available to anyone wishing to set and maintain traps within the coastal perimeter where we have laid traps. Note that signs have gone up warn people that safe bait in pet friendly bait stations has been laid around the peninsula. Already several householders have put their hands up for provision of

Ziggy Neely, budding Environmentalist, Scott Simpson Associate Minister of the Environment and Cam Rathe, Rural Pest Control

Strategy Development by the Team

https://theforestbridgetrust.org.nz/



traps where they have encountered severe rat infestation particularly around compost bins. PWCRA have purchased some traps available on request via Laurence Eyres [email protected]

Please note that, as well as trapping, there are procedures to reduce the infestation of rats such as removing attractive food sources (chicken feed) and accessible compost piles The Point Wells Community Ratepayers are trapping in all public areas and reserves but for those who want some technical assistance outside of the scope of the community activity then contact Rural Pest Control, Cam Rathe 021 206 3136 or

[email protected]

Peter and his friends Mole, Badger and Otter went for a nice walk along the Point Wells Riverbank going to see

Toad who had all sorts of devices and peanut butter at his house.

Everyone wanted to know where Ratty had gone and then we found him.

Everyone said what a BMF he was and Peter said you cannot say that,

this is a kid's story.

With Apologies to Kenneth Graham

New painters in town

Vicki Haughey, a long-time Point Wellian has teamed up with her brother, Nick Marler to become Vick & Nick Painters. Both have previous painting experience, although not as their main jobs. Nick has been in sales, mainly in Australia, for over 30 years, while Vicki has been employed by the NZ Police in a variety of roles for the past 35 years. Nick is a very experienced sailor, which is his passion when he’s not on the end of a paint brush, and Vicki has a passion for horses and you’ve no doubt seen her on horseback in and around Point Wells. Vicki & Nick believe in honesty and integrity and will do all they can to obtain the best outcome for their clients. Small jobs are their specialty. To contact, please call Vicki on 021 139 0019, or Nick on 021 610 201.


Vicki Haughey, a long-time Pt Wellian has teamed up with her brother, Nick Marler to become Vick & Nick Painters. Both have previous painting experience, although not as their main jobs.

Nick has been in Sales, mainly in Australia for over 30 years, while Vicki has been employed by the NZ Police in a variety of roles for the past 35 years.

Nick is a very experienced sailor, which is his passion when he’s not on the end of a paint brush.

Vicki has a passion for horses and you’ve no doubt seen her on horseback in & around Pt Wells.

Vicki & Nick believe in honesty & integrity & will do all they can to obtain the best outcome for their clients. Small jobs are their specialty.

To contact, please call Vicki on 0211390019, or Nick on 021610201.

If there any bird spotters or budding twitchers feel free to do a casual bird count and report back – we are sure there are more birds around. Please email me on [email protected]






Leaky Old Septic Tanks and Errant Cattle Polluting our River

By Laurence Eyres

On behalf of the community we, the PWCRA, have been sampling the Omaha River again from the waterfall to the boat ramp. We are looking for the analyses of E. coli for which a recent max of 540- cfu/100 ml has been suggested. A more reasonable standard for safe swimming is 130 cfu/100 ml. The following seven analyses have recently been reported on samples taken from above the waterfall to the boat

ramp. Samples were taken at high tide and after a period of no rain making them better than they have been for some time.

Sample number Location E.coli cfu/100 ml

1 Waterfall 310

2 Cows watering spot 240

3 Ditto 120

4 Near 91-95 b point wells Rd 31

5 Corner Riverside 14

6 Boat dock no 11

7 Boat ramp <1 The river is visually polluted down from the waterfall and near to the farm where cattle are not fenced off from the river. We are going to try and work cooperatively with the farmer to try and keep the cattle from defecating in the river.

• Beef cows can produce around 37 kg of excrement per day.

• Dairy cows produce the most at 62 kg per day

• Urine production is also mind boggling.

Let’s try and keep the cows away from the river. As we received a less than satisfactory response from the council to our earlier concerns we now plan to draw up a case and talk to the local politicos. We believe that it’s time for the council to stop dithering over statistical analyses and face the facts that two simple actions can give us all some confidence that the water where we all swim is safe.



These are the following

• Stop cows fouling the river by cooperative action.

• Stop leaky septic tanks overflowing sewage into the storm water drains.

This writer has personal family experience where his brother nearly died after being infected from E. coli in the Whanganui river. (see North and South July 2017). It’s becoming well known that these bugs are becoming resistant to antibiotics so, if you do get infected, chances are it will be extremely difficult to eliminate the bugs from your system. It’s election year and whilst we all know that economic stability is necessary and that farming is the cornerstone of the economy, recreational water quality is vital and is a hot topic. To quote the native Americans whose land was devastated by Trump ancestors. “When all the trees have been cut down, when all the animals have been hunted, when all the waters are polluted, when all the air is unsafe to breathe, only then will you discover you cannot eat money ….. Cree Prophecy Do we want to put our kids and seniors at risk because the Auckland Council would sooner indulge in paperwork prevarication when simple action could sort the problem? The Rodney Local Board have been most supportive of all our initiatives to date and we will continue to enlist their support in our struggle against city hall’s inertia.

New from the Fishing and Boating Club

In the Autumn issue of the Crier it was mentioned that the Boat ramp would be demolished and re-built over this winter. Unfortunately, as with many Council works in our area, this has not happened. As Commodore, I have been in touch with the "Project Manager" who told me the design work is underway; but of course, the re-build will not happen this year. It is agreed the ramp is in poor condition and needs to be up-graded. With luck, this should happen next year. Rest assured I am following this up regularly now. Rick Reid - Commodore

Pt Wells Fishing and Boating Club.








http://www.noted.co.nz/currently/environment/deadly-currents-how-an-infection-from-the-whanganui-river-nearly-killed-me/



OUR JOY OF POINT WELLS

Gera’s Swimming Group

Yes, it is still going through the winter – down to a hardy two at the moment – Gera and Rhys – Amazing!

Civil Defence Coordinator Needed: Point Wells Community Ratepayer are looking for a Coordinator for Civil Defence in the area. You would be working in collaboration with Omaha, Matakana and Whangateau areas and would have the support of the PWCRA behind you. Please contact Graeme Beals [email protected] or 027 203 7682




Kotahitanga Workshop

Be involved in enhancing resilience, safety and connectedness of communities throughout Auckland. Come along to visioning workshops to explore how we can work together to create stronger and safer communities. These workshops are open to everyone. Light snacks will be provided. Please RSVP [email protected]

THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2017 7.00 –8.30pm Warkworth Town Hall 21 Neville Street, Warkworth

We are in this together – He waka eke noa!

Hall News

Firstly, a big thank you to Clive Ritchie for mending the broken hall chair. It is now as good as new! Thank you too, to Heather Reid, who allowed us to sell the organ which went to a young couple and is now getting lots of use. The money from the sale will go towards the tuning of the piano. Blind replacement is an ongoing issue with the council. They are beyound repair.

Please be vigilant with checking doors after using the hall. Security people found a door unlocked recently. The water was physically turned off before a Connoisseurs Dinner last week. This remains a mystery as there is no easy access to the pump box. Finally – the Do Not Remove signs around the hall are because of an upcoming Council Hall clear out of unlabelled items. I will remove them when all danger of removal has passed. Ellie Greer, Hall Co-ordinator.











GLORIA VANCE MARTIN

“TURNS 100 YEARS OLD” Mrs. Gloria Vance Martin is turning 100 years of age on Sunday the 10th September 2017. On that day her large family and friends will gather in Pakuranga to celebrate with her. Gloria was born in Whangarei and at an early age she and her family relocated to Auckland. Before Gloria married she worked as a machinist at a shirt and pyjama factory which she enjoyed. At that time she worked a 43 hour week which changed to a 40 hour week when Labour got in under Mickey Savage. Gloria met and married James Martin at the age of 21 at St Matthews in the City and continued working for a couple of years before starting her family. They had five children, four boys and one girl. Gloria and James bought the property at number 4 Point Wells Road in 1957 and James built their home in 1961. Their home was used at that time by the Martin family for holidays. How different Point Wells must have been back in those days. They came to live here on a permanent basis in 1976. Gloria has lived in the same cottage for some 41 years. Living opposite were Mr. and Mrs. J Hartnell who were related to the Martins. Gloria tells me that the small community as it was then worked extremely hard fund raising and it is due to folk like them that we have our community hall and library. Gloria became the Librarian some years after taking up residence in Point Wells and held this position for nine years. Her husband became involved with any maintenance required in and about the hall and playground. Gloria is a great Knitter! For many years she has made knee rugs and crochet squares which started when she belonged to the Women’s Institute.

Blessed with good health Gloria certainly looks a very youthful 100 years. She is quite remarkable in that she still has pretty good sight and only recently succumbed to hearing aids as her children insisted that she needed them! Gloria is helped around the home by her eldest son Brian who stays with her now and then, but when she is on her own she cooks her own meals. How about that for 100 years old. Gloria has a large extended family which includes 10 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. To reach the grand age of 100 years still be living at home, according to family research, is quite frankly unusual! We would all like to wish Gloria a very happy birthday on the 10th September – a wonderful achievement for a very gracious lady. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU. Thoughts from Brian Martin (eldest son) with help from Heather Reid

Mrs Martin and flowers from PWCRA and the Community



My Mum, Looking Back.

Behind the blinds tilted to protect her collection of treasured family photos from sun fade or perhaps in the sunny conservatory sits my wonderful 100 years young mother - busily knitting her famous peggy squares and sewn up into rugs to warm the knees of the elderly residents of the local retirement home. This is one of the crafts and domestic skills she taught me over my growing years. Others were crocheting, embroidery, cooking and mastering the famous banana cake. When the family was young we spent all our school holidays in the cottage where she still lives in today. We have wonderful memories of those happy carefree days which we often reminisce about when we get together. While dad (Jim) continued to work on the house we would disappear to explore the hills, build huts, walk to Omaha (no houses then), go fishing in a borrowed boat. We spent endless hours swimming in the estuary until mum summoned us home for a meal by using a referee’s whistle which could be heard for miles. We had no power for a while so mum would cook our meals in a pressure cooker on a kerosene primus stove which dad made. Dad could make anything! The road to Point Wells was unsealed, rough and dusty, so driving over or around potholes tested the durability of Dad’s Studebaker which was packed to the gunnels with supplies and children, also pulling a trailer. It was a long trip!!! There was no convenient corner store or supermarket in those early days. We bought our milk in the morning from the back of a van of a local famer, dishing it out into a billy can. When the family married and moved away, Mum and Dad retired to live permanently in their modest cottage. It now had a flush toilet compared to the long drop we had to use in the early days! This energetic couple developed a large vegetable garden and planted many fruit trees which bore loads of produce

which Mum bottled and made incredible jams. Mum loved her flower garden and grew beautiful roses which were much admired They became involved in the community life - Dad played bowls (in his lovely knitted jersey mum made), also helping with the construction of the hall and maintaining the playground and small welding jobs. He implemented the Point Wells Crier, typing up the text and printing it off on his Gestetner printer. There were great dances and playing of bowls in the hall. They were good times. Mum joined all the clubs. She was invaluable setting up the trading tables, providing her jams and veges to sell, keeping the books in order and cleaning up afterwards. She was Treasurer of the Library for nine years and she particularly enjoyed buying and mending the books. She is a respected member of the CWI, Women’s Fellowship, and was a member of the Gardening Circle for many years. Mum helped to organise the monthly dinners in the hall and Dad made some of the tables. The food was cooked by Maida Cook at Mahurangi College, delivered by Bill Speed and served by the college girls. This was well patronised by all who could get tickets as the hall could only seat so many. Mum is a talented knitter, we all had beautiful jerseys and well sewn homemade clothes in our younger days. Mum attributes her long and healthy life to hard work in the fresh air, in the garden, fresh vegetables and homemade food, especially the puddings after dinner and cookies we had in our lunches. Mum has seen many changes in the world and in Point Wells – new housing development and more street lights to mention a few. I owe you so much for your advice and a calm positive outlook on life. I'm proud to be your daughter. Happy Birthday and we all love you so much, much love from Noeline.

You Say …. Hi - My husband and I moved

to Point Wells last September, and are totally enjoying the village atmosphere. We have awesome neighbours and are so happy we made the move from the big city! Keep up the good work😊Regards Pip and Warwick Edwards –

We Say ……Thank you so much and

welcome!



Warkworth Beekeepers Society's 1st birthday

The big day on 2nd August was a huge success, especially for Martin White from Leigh, the lucky winner of our $300 hive raffle. There were 90 of our members present, most of whom gleefully participated in our competitions which included savouring 19 scrumptious bee themed cakes. Our local bee expert Matt Wech gave his regular talk on hive maintenance whilst our speaker of the month, Julian McCurdy of BuzzTech, gave a talk on hive monitoring software. With spring just around the corner now is the time to join our apiary team and come along to open a hive, inspect a frame, get to know the girls up close and team up with a hive buddy. Our bee keeping courses are soon to begin so please contact the club if you are interested in participating. Our local hive ware specialists F&J Honey stock everything you need to get started with bees and offer special discounts for club members. For all enquiries : [email protected] / [email protected]/ 021 02649674



not only have they been fund raising

for just about everything possible in

the community, They also helped sew

some boomerang bags for the point

wells community to use. Boomerang

bags are an alternative to plastic

bags and available at the store.

POINT WELLS KIDS SECTION



POINT WELLS KIDS INVITE YOU TO THE

ANNUAL

POINT WELLS

FOOTBALL AFTERNOON

First up

10 minute warm up game for 7s and

under

main event

KIDS vs ADULTS

DATE: SATURDAY 9 SEPTEMBER

KICK OFF: 3PM

WHERE: POINT WELLS HALL



Gardening with Andrew Steens

Planting for The Birds

Nearly 20 years ago I was fortunate enough to happen upon a sleepy little village called Point Wells – The Garden Village. I arrived in a van in late summer to pick up some Bromeliad plants from a local collector and was immediately struck by how lush, green and humid the village was in comparison to the rest of the area. In fact, the closest comparison I could make was with another favourite place of mine – Rarotonga! Within a year or so of that first visit, I’d moved up to make this my forever home.

Since then of course there have been some dramatic changes to the look of the village; with subdivision, infill housing and the removal of many shelter belts & trees, the village is a little less wild and jungle-like than in the past, but still peaceful and gorgeous. Although more structured now, I think the quality of gardens has actually improved and there are still lots of flowering trees and plants for native and introduced birdlife to enjoy.

Frequent visitors or residents in Point Wells gardens include Kereru, Tui, Waxeyes, various Finches, Blackbirds, Thrush, Mynah, Turtle Doves, Morepork, Ducks, Starling, Sparrows, Pukeko, Kingfisher, Grey Warbler, Fantail, Skylark and Welcome Swallow; augmented by occasional visitors such as Quail, Pheasant, Kaka, Bellbird, Kookaburra, Magpie and Shining Cuckoo; all told a pretty good selection!

I’d love to see the birdlife increase even further. The easiest way to do this is increase the number and range of plants in our gardens. Shrubs and trees that birds like to feed on (flowers, fruit, seeds or leaves) include Hibiscus, Abutilon, Kowhai, Plum, Pseudopanax, Cherry, Peach, Guava, Flax, Coprosma, Cordyline, Titoki, Mahoe, Pittosporum, Citrus, Figs, Palms, Persimmon, Banksia, Protea, Leucospermum, Callistemon, Grevillea, Coral tree.

Smaller flowering plants are useful for seed eating birds, good ones to plant include Amaranthus, Marigold, Calendula, Sunflower, Cosmos and all the grasses. Leave patches of lawn grass to go to seed if possible, as this also provides a lot of seed. Any vegetables that are left to go to seed will also provide a bonus food source for seed eaters.

The overall garden environment is also important. Birds need patches of denser shrubbery to shelter and nest; hedges and vines are very good for this. Nesting boxes are useful for some species, but make sure they are designed to reduce the ability of nest robbers such as Mynahs, cats and rats. If you can, leave a few partially decomposed logs or stumps in a back corner of the garden; these provide a bountiful source of insects and can provide a nesting site for some species.

A multi-layered garden is ideal, with canopy trees, vines, shrubs, ground covers and a thick layer of leaf litter or mulch on the gardens to provide a range of environments for feeding and shelter. Leaf litter and mulch is also essential for insect eaters to increase the amount of food and allow for easier foraging. Providing several water sources around the garden is helpful, as birds will choose which ones they prefer to wash or drink from, depending on how safe they feel.

Every little bit you can do to improve the environment for birds will enhance the feel of our lovely garden village and make it a more pleasant place to live. A definite win-win.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW ADVERTISERS

PLEASE WELCOME OUR THREE NEW ADVERTISTERS. VICKI BEDE OF VICK AND NICK PAINTERS, MAX ROWSELL –

REGISTERED FARM MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT AND LIBBY DYKES, CELEBRANT



K9 Ramble

MAINTAINING ORAL HEALTH An area sometimes overlooked by pet owners, is oral health. Yellow teeth with brownish staining and bad breath are just a few symptoms of poor oral health. Crooked, cracked and/or loose teeth, infections and abscesses can also cause problems. Many dogs over the age of 4 experience some form of gum disease. Tartar and plaque build-up compromise teeth, leading to gingivitis and other gum problems that may develop without your pet showing any signs of discomfort. Pets will instinctively conceal signs of pain, trying to hide their vulnerability from other animals, so it is important to recognise symptoms of tooth and gum disease. For example, a loss of appetite and/or a change of eating habits may show that chewing is painful (given a lack of any other symptoms of illness/disease), while face rubbing or swelling may indicate gum disease. Sadly, the worst case scenarios of advanced periodontal disease are life-threatening leading to heart, liver and kidney disease. Some of the most common problems for dogs are – 1. Loose teeth (excluding puppies that lose their milk teeth between 7-8 months) may be from oral trauma,

gum disease or illness. 2. Crooked teeth may cause chewing problems or exacerbate jaw issues in adult dogs. 3. Tartar build-up hardens on teeth, and weakens gums that become puffy, red and prone to spotting or

bleeding after chewing. 4. Broken or cracked teeth due to traumatic injury, playing tugging games too vigorously or chewing on

indestructible materials may leave that tooth’s nerve exposed and/or open to serious bacterial infections and abscesses.

5. Tooth removal due to diseased gums – particularly in older dogs. Good pet oral hygiene should start early and be maintained for life; essential for smaller dogs in my opinion as chewing is limited by the size of their mouths. A pet’s diet may help to keep teeth clean, however, I recommend supervising the eating of chew products or bones*. Regularly cleaning your pet’s teeth (daily if possible) with a quality pet toothpaste and toothbrush is particularly beneficial. It is extremely important that human toothpaste is not used on pets. Pets will swallow human toothpaste (designed to be spat out) and become very ill with fluoride poisoning. Routinely examining your pet’s mouth for lumps/growths, their teeth and gums can also help to maintain oral health and allow early detection of periodontal disease. Dental examinations should be included with your pet’s annual veterinarian check-up. Teeth cleaning by veterinarians is done under general anesthetic that is increasingly risky with age or illness and expensive, although costs are not standardised across veterinary practices. *N.B. The ingestion of raw bones is currently contentious in terms of modern animal science. Raewyn at TranzFURmers Bsc., MSs(Hon), Dip.Sec.Tchg, Dip.Prof.Groom

http://www.dodogsteethfallout.com/06-periodontaldiseaseindogs.html



Council Installed Incorrect Signs Regarding Dogs Off Lead

Council staff advise that although there are a number of dog access bylaws that apply in Point Wells, it is probably worth noting as a starting point that dogs are allowed “under control off a leash” on grassed areas at all times. The advice we have received from staff around the other specific bylaws that apply is as follows: Point Wells beach and foreshore areas adjacent to Point Wells Foreshore Reserve from the boat ramp off Riverside Drive to the entrance at 36 Harbour View Road

➢ A “time and season rule” applies for the Point Wells beach and foreshore areas adjacent to Point Wells Foreshore Reserve from the boat ramp off Riverside Drive to the entrance at 36 Harbour View Road. This is the area shown on the map below.

➢ The “time and season rule” means that in winter dogs are allowed under control off a leash in this area and in summer they are prohibited from 10am-6.30pm but allowed under control off a leash outside of these times.

Point Wells Foreshore Reserve south of the entrance at Harbour View Road

➢ Dogs are allowed under control on a leash in the Point Wells Foreshore Reserve south of the entrance at Harbour View Road (which starts at the bottom right hand corner of the map below).

Point Wells Foreshore Reserve area north of the entrance at Harbour View Road

➢ There is no specific rule for the Point Wells Foreshore Reserve area north of the entrance at Harbour View Road.

➢ This means that the default rule for all parks applies, which is that dogs are allowed under control off a leash.

In terms of the signage in this area, there are six signs installed at the northern and eastern sides of Point Wells. See above for a picture of the signage. The last line of this sign states that dogs are allowed under control off a leash in grassed areas at all times. The upshot is that the rules actually allow dogs to be under control off a leash most of the time at Point Wells, including in the area of the Foreshore Reserve north of the entrance at Harbour View Road. PLEASE PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOG



Neighbourhood Watch As they say “No News is Good News”. It is most pleasing that over the last three months no adverse activity has been reported within the Point Wells Village. Let’s hope that the good news extends well into the upcoming summer months. Prior to the next issue of the Point Wells Crier an event that deserves a mention is daylight saving begins when clocks are put forward an hour at 2 am on Sunday 24th September 2017, the day after Winston, Jacinda and James take over the helm.

Calling for a New Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator As you may have heard Maggie and I have sold our property at Riverside Drive and we are moving into the country away from the bustling metropolis of the Point Wells Village. We have thoroughly enjoyed our 17 years of residence in Point Wells but it is now time for us to move on to a quieter more rural lifestyle with less traffic. The village will need to find a new Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator. If someone is interested in taking over the role of Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator please let me know. You need to be active, available and prepared to put in a little bit of time now and then, it’s a very easy job. Please contact me - Ian Hutchinson on 021 924 287 or [email protected] It would also be most appreciated if we could entice 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. Neighbourhood Watch Magazine If you would like to read the latest edition of the North Shore – Rodney Neighbourhood Watch magazine, check out the website: www.nsrodney.org.nz Contacts:

If it is an emergency call the Police (111) or Warkworth Police Station (09 425 8109) first. 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 [email protected]. Please do not forget to report anything out of ordinary and/or suspicious. Regards Ian Hutchinson - 09 422 9640


http://www.nsrodney.org.nz/



Rodney Board Honours Volunteers Volunteers from 46 organisations in Rodney were honoured recently by the Rodney Local Board. Rodney Local Board Chair Beth Houlbrooke thanked all volunteers for their huge contribution to communities and public spaces all over Rodney. “Every day volunteers exemplify a can-do attitude and a cheerful willingness to do whatever it takes to help others. We thank our volunteers as well as their families who totally support their efforts and enable them to devote time to their community.”

Each volunteer group nominated a representative for the award. Volunteers came from a broad range of community sectors including arts, environment, sports, residents and ratepayer groups and hall committees. Rodney Volunteer Awards Including our very own: • Laurence Eyres • Heather Reid

Mainly Music Point Wells Music is getting very popular with the local preschoolers. You can find us at the Point Wells Hall every Thursday during term time from 10am. We have lots of fun while, singing, dancing, using props and musical instruments. We also provide morning tea for the children and have a roster for supplying the adults’ morning tea. We ask for a gold coin donation to go towards the children’s morning tea, buying resources and printing costs.

We are on a look out for a volunteer to help with the setup of the hall and setting out of the morning tea for the children and adults. Please contact Jonelle on 021-815-552 or pop in next Thursday and see what the role involves. Jonelle Loving – Co-ordinator

Libby Dykes loves living in Point Wells Until this year Libby (another new advertiser) had never lived in Point Wells, although she has lived in the area since 2000, when she and her partner Charlie bought the lovely Rosemount property which she ran as a bed and breakfast for 10 years. She also ran a specialised hospitality service in which she took responsibility for organising large functions and celebrations

on farms and private properties. Her family, also living in the area, worked with her in that business. Daughter Rebecca or Becks will be known to many of you as the owner of the Point Wells Store and Bramble at Country Park, while younger son Jonny used to manage the Matakana Pub before heading to Melbourne last year. Libby has maintained her links

with celebrations as the area’s leading marriage celebrant and she also helps Becks out at the Point Wells Store. After living at Omaha for a time, she is now renting a house in Dunbar Street which overlooks the harbour and she has become a passionate devotee of Point Wells with its peaceful and friendly village atmosphere.

Upcoming events – PWCRA Community Event – Sunday 1st October at the Hall 300pm – 600pm and Village Cricket Match. Watch out for your community notices. If you are not on the list and would like to please contact me on [email protected]




Point Wells Community & Ratepayers Association Incorporated

President Graeme Beals 423-0093

Vice President Christine Hill 422-9625

Secretary Vanessa Barber 422-9515

Treasurer Laurence Eyres 422-9573

Library: Co ordinator Rae Clayton [email protected]

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

4th Thursday each month Secretary Judy Macready 422-9427

Warkworth & Districts Croquet Secretary Marion Taylor 021-078-4691

Civil Defence Co-ordinator Noeline Cranston 422-9645

Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator Ian Hutchinson 422-9640

Mainly Music Co-ordiator Jonelle Loving 021-815-552

The Coffee Club 3rd Tuesday Geraldine Rodgers 422-9489

The Point Wells Club President Chris Jensen 021-588-891

Secretary Julie Snowsill 0210695317

Point Wells General Store Monday to Wednesday 7.00am – 6.00pm 422-7007

(established 1948) Thursday to Sunday 7.00am -late OPEN 7 DAYS

Takeaways Thurs-Sun 4.00pm – 8.00pm

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

General Enquiries Ellie Greer 0274 788 688

Lynell Martin 422-7976

Point Wells Crier Co-ordinators Allan &Vanessa Barber 422-9515

[email protected] 0274-758-992





POINT WELLS COMMUNITY AND RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED

SUBSCRIPTION/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 $15.00 per single or $25 per family. Signed: …………………………………………………………………………. Date: …………/…………/…………… Payment: By mail The Treasurer PWCRA c/o Laurence Eyres, 127 Point Wells Road, RD6, Warkworth Direct Credit ASB Warkworth 12 3095 0090996 00– 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.

USEFUL NUMBERS:

ALL EMERGENCIES: 111

AUCKLAND COUNCIL – FOR GENERAL MAINTEANCE ISSUES OF COUNCIL PROPERTY, NOISE CONTROL, ROAMING DOGS ETC – 09 301 0101 OR www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/contactus

AUCKLAND TRANSPORT – ROAD MAINTENANCE ISSUES 09 355 3553 OR www.at.govt.nz/report-a-problem

MATAKANA INFORMATION CENTRE: 422-7433

I SITE WARKWORTH INFORMATON OFFICE: 425-9081

WARKWORTH POLICE STATION: 425-8109

POLLUTION HOTLINE – 09 377 3107

LOCAL BOARD REPRESENTATIVES:

BETH HOULBROOKE 021 839 413 [email protected]

ALLISON ROE 021 608 888 [email protected]

If you have not already done so we do look forward to receiving your subscription for the Point Wells Community Ratepayers Association to help us continue with community projects. Also, if you are not receiving the community Mailchimp notice and would like to please contact me on [email protected]

http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/contactus

http://www.at.govt.nz/report-a-problem






POINT WELLS KIDS WENT PLASTIC FREE

point wells kids really got behind this great initiative

and went plastic free for the

month of July. WELL DONE!!!

EDITORS: VANESSA AND

ALLAN BARBER

PHONE: 09-422-9515

MOBILE: 0274-758-992

EMAIL:

[email protected]

WEBSITE:

www.pointwellsvillage.co.nz


http://www.pointwellsvillage.co.nz/

THANK YOU POINT WELLS COMMUNITY FROM THE …local politicians so we get a clean river and harbour....

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Transcript of THANK YOU POINT WELLS COMMUNITY FROM THE …local politicians so we get a clean river and harbour....