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look out for our free visitors guide eat • see • do • stayalso available online at localmatters.co.nz
summer
mahurangi, matakana
coast & beyond
see • eat • do • stay
FREE VISITORS GUIDEdestination
entertainment this
woodchopping rodeo
musicart
greatgiveawaysand much
more...
20 Mahurangi Matters December 17, 2014 summerfeature
MORRIS & JAMEShandmade pottery
just an hour’s drive north of Aucklandyou’ll �nd the creative haven of Morris & James pottery
visit
www.morr i sandjames.co.nz
Pottery & Cafe Open 7 days Free Pottery Tour daily at 11.30am
Tongue Farm Road, MatakanaT. 0508 768 8379
shop
relax
play
Open every day over the Christmas and new Year Holidays except for Christmas Day & Boxing Day.
Whangaparaoa-based artist Murray Stuart is the judge of this year’s Great Summer Art Exhibition.
Judge looks for WOW factor at exhibitionWhile the old adage advises ‘never judge a book by its cover’, the same cannot be said about paintings.At least that’s the opinion of this year’s judge of the Great Summer Art Exhibition in Snells Beach, Murray Stuart, of Whangaparaoa.“For me, first impressions are important,” he says. “I’m looking for a painting that has the WOW factor. I want to be surprised by the skill of the artist in portraying his subject.”Murray is a professional artist, whose favourite subjects are NZ cityscapes, landscapes and seascapes. He is recognised for his use of bold brushstrokes and clean vibrant colours. Although he paints in several mediums, watercolour is his passion. He says his aim is ‘expressions rather than imitation’.Murray is a featured artist in the 2008 book New Zealand in Watercolour: 30 Leading Artists Paint Their Country and Its People by Denis Robinson. He regularly tutors on both sides of the Tasman, and has been a judge at many exhibitions including the Royal Easter Show. This year he won the coveted Raye Hannam Trophy for Best in Show.“When I’m judging, I look for an interesting choice of subject matter, good use of materials, confident brush strokes, creative use of colour and good design skills, to name a few,” he says.“My advice to would-be exhibitors is
to paint with confidence and passion. Show me how you see it and make your painting come alive.”The Great Summer exhibition is organised as a fundraiser for the Mahurangi East Tennis Club.Club member Jan Hooton says as usual, art will displayed in three categories – professional, intermediate and novice. Most exhibitions attract around 150 artists with sometimes up to 450 paintings on display.“The artists set the prices, but normally they range from $100 to $1000,” she says.
As well as the art, there will be woodturning, Maggie’s Creations, raffles and the ever-popular Ace Café with home baking.The annual exhibition will be staged in the Mahurangi East Community Centre, Snells Beach, from December 28 to January 3.There is a $10 entry fee on opening night December 28, but the rest of the exhibition is free. The major sponsor is Bayleys.Money raised will be spent on resurfacing the top courts.
ticketgiveawayMahurangi Matters has a double pass to giveaway. Just write your name and daytime contact phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Black Seeds Competition, Mahurangi Matters PO Box 701 Warkworth or send us a message Facebook/mahurangimatters or [email protected] with the subject line: Black Seeds. Competition closes December 22.
Three of New Zealand’s top roots and reggae bands are coming together to create good vibes for the start of the year at Mangawhai Tavern on January 3.The Black Seeds, Katchafire and Sons Of Zion will play at Mangawhai after performing eight nights in a row across the country for their summer tour.The Black Seeds are well known for their blend of soul, afro funk, dub and groove. Since forming in the late 90s they have released five albums and toured internationally including Europe and the US. Katchafire have also been busy maintaining their reputation as one of the hardest working NZ bands, with 24 shows in North America in September and October this year. Since the release of their debut album Revival eleven years ago they have ventured to many corners of the planet including Australia, Hawaii, New Caledonia, Brazil and Europe.
Good vibes to start the year
21 December 17, 2014 Mahurangi Matters summerfeature
PUHOI ANNUAL WOOD CHOPPING CARNIVAL 2015PUB LAWN • 10 JAN 9AM-5PMMUSIC FROM 6PM • BISTRO OPEN
Shopping at the stables THE FRENCH SHED & SLOWATER TRADING
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Some of the best woodchoppers in the world are coming to Puhoi in January to swing razor sharp axes within metres of a crowd of over a thousand people.The event, held in front of the Puhoi Pub on January 10, will feature world champion woodchopper Jason Wynyard.Jason won the Stihl timbersports series for the 11th time this year and last month was jointly awarded Maori Sports Person of the Year with his son, national basketball star Tai Wynyard.The Stihl championship is broadcast to millions worldwide and has made Jason something of a woodchopping celebrity. He also holds the world record for white pine standing block chop (12.11 seconds) and the single buck chop (9.3 seconds).New Zealanders have dominated the international competition, with kiwis taking out 16 of the last 18 championships.Taranaki woodchoppers and NZ representatives Jack and Shane Jordan will also return this year.Jack was a highlight of this year’s event, as the lean 17-year-old took out several titles, beating people twice his size with decades more experience.Puhoi Axemen secretary John Sanderson says the event has been called the best one-day chop in the country.“The atmosphere is unbeatable, with the historic pub in the background and the natural amphitheatre of the
World’s best axemen at Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival
space. The crowd is right there in the action.“Spectators love the element of danger and seeing the axemen make a difficult task seem easy.“The standing events are booked out two months in advance. I don’t think there’s another woodchop in the country that can say that.”There will be a total of 47 competitors across all events, however the club has been unable to find enough people
for the popular tree-felling event, where woodchoppers cut the top off a trunk while perched precariously on jiggerboards.“A few people have had to pull out because of injuries and we haven’t been able to convince anyone to take their place. I think people are scared. It’s an intimidating event.”Despite the basics of the event being unchanged for 100 years, the sport is making use of the latest technology.
The club now uses an iPad app to determine the winner in dead-heats.“In a final, all the competitors might finish within a second. We had to use it several times this year.”The iPad is also used during training to analyse a chopper’s technique.“Technique is more important than strength in woodchopping. You can have all the power in the world, but if you are putting it in the wrong place you’re not going to be on the podium.”
The atmosphere at the Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival has been described as unbeatable.
22 Mahurangi Matters December 17, 2014
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Preparing a forest for a woodchopping carnivalPreparing wood for a chopping event takes months of work. The Puhoi Axemen prepare about 500 blocks each year to cover the four events they host, with 230 blocks chopped at the Puhoi carnival. This requires about 40 pine trees, which are donated from members of the public and are milled into standardised blocks by the club. “There’s nothing like the feeling of cutting blocks that you’ve spent months preparing yourself,” Puhoi Axemen secretary John Sanderson says. At the end of the event the cut blocks are donated to elderly people to use as firewood.
Roger Farr has been woodchopping for 30 years and will be competing at Puhoi next month.
Woodchopping captures the interest of people ranging from primary school pupils to pensioners.At the Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival there is a 44-year age range between competitors.At 61, Roger Farrr is older than some of the trees he is chopping, whereas Kaleb McDonnell, 17, is still a relative seedling.Roger started the sport in his early 30s and says he is not going to hang up his axe any time soon.“I enjoy the physical side of it. It’s a great way to keep fit.“There’s also great camaraderie in the Puhoi Axemen. They’re a good batch of people and keep you going.”However, the sport has been in decline in Northland since he started.“It’s still quite popular in the South Island, but a lot of the events in the North have disappeared now. It’s a lot of work putting on an event.”Kaleb gives hope to those who are working to change that trend.He started chopping at age 12 when his father started the sport. It wasn’t long before he was competing.“I’ve just been doing the underhand events so far, but I’ve managed to win some competitions. At first my father would chop the first half of the block and I would compete by finishing the other side.“It’s great having everyone cheer you on. Even if you finish last, the crowd gets behind you, but the best part is the
Sapling woodchoppers encouraged to ‘have a go’ at Puhoi
feeling you get finishing your block.”Kaleb has inspired other friends to give the sport a go and his five-year-old and 11-year-old brothers have started training at home. Next month will be Kaleb’s third Puhoi event.“It’s the best show there is. It’s the atmosphere that makes it.”Puhoi Axemen secretary John Sanderson
hopes the event will encourage more young people to take on the sport.“We are planning on having an open day at the pub. If anyone is interested in the sport, they should come and talk with us at the event. “Once you start woodchopping there’s a bug you get and you just want to chop wood as fast as you can. You can’t stop.”
He’s only 17 years old, but Kaleb McDonnell has already been competing in woodchopping for five years.
summerfeature
23 December 17, 2014 Mahurangi Matters
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Wood Chopping Carnival
World champion woodchopper Jason Wynyard will compete at the Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival next month.
NZ representative woodchopper Jack Jordan will return to Puhoi for the event.
summerfeature
24 Mahurangi Matters December 17, 2014
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After last year’s successful A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Essential Theatre returns to Ascension Wine Estate with a performance of Macbeth.
Macbeth by moonlight at AscensionAfter three years of sell-out crowds, Ascension Wine Estate is bringing The Bard back to Mahurangi with a performance of Macbeth.Melbourne company Essential Theatre has been entertaining Australian crowds with Shakespeare for more than a decade and their only NZ performances will be at Ascension.The play will be performed outdoors in the vineyard with the actors surrounded by a relatively small audience sitting on picnic rugs and chairs.Ascension’s functions manager Carlie Blanchett-Burton says the atmosphere makes for a truly memorable performance.“It has become one of the highlights of the summer here at Ascension. Guests love sipping wine among the vines as the sun sets while enjoying a live performance and Essential Theatre is such an innovative theatre company. They really bring these
classic plays to life,” Carlie says.The actors use their open-air stage from edge-to-edge, often positioning themselves amongst the audience and including them in the proceedings.Macbeth is a classic tale of power, superstition and madness. Brave, strong and patriotic, Macbeth happens upon three witches who predict he will soon be King. His bloody rise to power is encouraged by one of theatre’s all time iconic characters Lady Macbeth.“In a time where people are hooked on Game of Thrones and House of Cards, where ambition drives decisions at any cost, Macbeth will be raw, edgy and entertaining.“Be ready for a bold night of theatre under the stars.”The performances will be on Saturday January 3 and Sunday January 4.Tickets: ascensionwine.co.nz or 422 9601. Gates open 6pm, play starts 7pm.
Gala will be a stunnerThe Mangawhai Community Gala will excite the senses on January 2 with more than 200 stalls, food from around the globe, music and classic gala games.The event has been a calendar staple for more than 40 years and usually attracts over 6000 people, raising about $35,000 for maintenance and work at the community-owned Mangawhai Domain.Gala organiser John Dickie says stall holders from around Northland will be showing their wares including jewellery, clothing, preserves, paintings and photography.There will be traditional gala games like egg and spoon races, a sack races, an egg catching competitions and gumboot throwing.A helicopter will be offering scenic flights to paying punters.John says the day is well supported by the community and businesses alike.“Businesses have donated over $1500 of prizes for our raffles and the gala is organised by a core group of 10 volunteers, with about 100 volunteers helping out on the day.”The gala runs from 8.30am to 2pm. Entry $3 for adults, $2 for children. Families $8, parking $8 per car including entry for occupants.
There will be a variety of entertainment at the gala, from musicians and buskers to traditional gala games such as gumboot throwing.
summerfeature
25 December 17, 2014 Mahurangi Matters
Contact the
Transport Operators Daily Freight To / from Auckland & Rodney County
Containers (20/40 Swing lift) For freight & containers 09 423 9300
Phone (09) 423 9300 Email [email protected]
WARKWORTH Ltd.transcontc
Proudly Supporting the Warkworth Rodeo
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For obligation-free quotes on all your Excavation & Metal SuppliesPhone 09 425 7799 | Fax 09 425 7798
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Bulls will be back bucking for the 55th Warkworth Rodeo on January 1, in one of the biggest annual entertainment events in Mahurangi.About 5000 people usually attend the rodeo, which includes bull riding, buck riding, bareback and saddle riding, ladies barrel racing, steer wrestling and a team roping contest.The Warkworth Rodeo falls in the
middle of an eight-date rodeo tour across the North Island so the cowboys should be well in their stride by New Year’s Day.There will be about 125 people competing in the event from around NZ with about 40 bulls, 25 horses and 12 steer.The Brahman bulls are bred by Tomarata farming couple Tom and
Marie Whiteford, who breed from a long line of bucking bulls from the US and Australia.This year they won the NZ Rodeo Cowboys Association’s Bull of the Year award, which is selected by the riders.Warkworth Rodeo Club secretary Krista Fletcher says the bulls are at the top of their class.“We’ve got a whole new generation of
bulls starting which we will be using on New Year’s Day. They had their first buck at Bullmania in Warkworth this month.“There are people who think rodeos are cruel, but the bulls are bred to buck. “They have a rope around their flank which irritates them, but it doesn’t hurt them. If it’s too tight they won’t buck at all. For 99 per cent of the time they are out in a paddock and left to themselves.”
Cowboys saddle up for 55th Warkworth Rodeo round-up
The Warkworth Rodeo usually attracts a crowd of over 5000
people on New Year’s Day.
summerfeature
26 Mahurangi Matters December 17, 2014
Phone 425 8723 • Fax 425 9526Private & All Insurance Work
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New regulations for rodeos came into force this year, which many in the industry hope will dispel negative perceptions of the sport.However, animal welfare groups maintain that the changes are too soft.In October, the Ministry for Primary Industries released a new Code of Welfare which set new standards for the industry including banning sheep and fireworks from rodeos.Warkworth Rodeo Club secretary Krista Fletcher, who has been secretary for the club for 31 years, says the industry has become increasingly politically correct.“We did have a sheep catching event for children, but we aren’t allowed to do that any more. It was just a chance for the kids to have a run around.”She says the new regulations are mostly commonsense and a good thing for the industry.“It’s made us more aware of animal welfare issues and a bit more aware of how the public perceive us.”Animal welfare organisation SAFE labelled the new code a “sick joke”, saying the animals are tormented and mistreated, merely for entertainment. They say that rodeos are in breach of New Zealand’s Animal Welfare Act which states animals should be “physically handled in a manner which minimises the likelihood of unreasonable
or unnecessary pain or distress”.Animal welfare issues were also highlighted earlier in the year after a video of a rodeo in Huntly went viral, showing calf roping, bulls bucking out of their stalls and a horse getting caught in it’s holding pen.Animal welfare officer and NZ Rodeo Cowboys Association spokesperson and former president, Gary Jackson, says Warkworth rodeo has larger, better-designed stalls which minimises the risk of animals injuring themselves.“What the animals go through is no different to what happens in the racing industry or when animals go through a stockyard at a farm,” Mr Jackson says. “We have over 40 years of statistics and have found that, compared with other rodeo events, calf roping results in the least amount of animal injuries. That’s in a sport which has a very low number of injuries anyway.“These are pretty tough animals. The calves have to be over 150kg.”The industry deals with more than six million animals in NZ, attracting about 150,000 spectators a year, he says.“These aren’t sadistic people. Each rodeo has close to $1 million worth of stock. This is our livelihood. We know how to look after our animals. We can’t afford to have them injured.”
Rodeo regulations debated
FOOD • COFFEE • SMOOTHIES
WARKWORTH SHOWGROUNDS
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WARKWORTH SHOWGROUNDSJanuary 1st, 2015 @ 10amFREE
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Dogs not permitted on grounds
Local Barrel Race - Closes 29th Dec • Local Steer Ride - Entry on the dayTo enter phone the Secretary 09 425 8828
Adult $20 • Child $5 • Family $50 (2 adults & up to 4 children)
New rodeo regulations have sparked debate on animal welfare issues.
summerfeature
27 December 17, 2014 Mahurangi Matters
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Rodeo regulations debated
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The thrill of watching a cowboy hit the dust attracts thousands to the Warkworth Rodeo.
summerfeature
28 Mahurangi Matters December 17, 2014
Caledonian Park Waipu
JANUARY 1STGames Host Clan Keith • Games Info 09 432 2509waipugames.co.nz
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Securing the final roof trusses on the huge Celtic Barn in Waipu was cause for celebration this month. The barn is on target to be completed mid next year.
A Highland pipe competition, with entrants from throughout New Zealand, will be held at Waipu on December 31.The competition was the dying wish of long-time Waipu Games supporter, Helen McGregor, in 2003.Games promotions officer Pat Hadlee says Helen wanted to see a special piping competition established to enable top class pipers to be as creative and innovative as they wished. “It was her idea that they be able to flare their fingers to the max and enjoy a unique experience of playing the bagpipes to their own tune,” she says.Each entrant plays their own piece for eight minutes. There are normally around 20 competitors vying for the top prize of $300.The judge is Bain McGregor, who met his wife Helen at Blair Atholl Castle in Scotland. Bain was the piper-in-residence for the 10th Duke of Atholl and Helen was a tour guide.Helen was not a piper but played a French horn and tenor horn in the Whangarei Brass Band, and tenor drum in both the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band Scotland and the Whangarei Pipe Band.“Even though she didn’t play the pipes, she had a strong love and passion for the instrument. It is wonderful that this competition celebrates all that is inspiring in Highland piping and gives pipers a chance to create something new and special in her name.” The evening starts at 7pm. Tickets are available at the door.
Pipers to compete
The 144th Waipu Highland Games on January 1 will see heavyweight entrants from Scotland, the United Kingdom and New Zealand, gather for what is the largest event of its type in the Southern Hemisphere.The day will start with the March In with pipes and drums down the main street of Waipu at 9am followed by the Salute in the arena.Heavyweight events in the arena will include the stone throw, hammer 16lb, weight for distance 14lb and caber toss.The Ballistic Blondes will drop in at lunchtime to thrill the crowds with their sky diving skills and Cr Shelly Deeming will officially open the games at 12.30pm.Competitions in the afternoon will include the wheat sheaf toss and highland hammer 22lb. The Tartan in the Park fashion show will start at 2pm. Other afternoon activities include a tug of war, rock scramble and a NZ record attempt in the 160lb Farmers Walk at 3.30pm.Waipu’s Caledonian Society has been running the games since 1871. Apart from creating tense competition at all the events, the day is a fun-filled carnival for the whole family. This year sees the
introduction of a Mini Highland Games where school children can try their hand at tossing the caber, throwing a mini hammer and hurling a hairy haggis.There will be various running events for the reputable runners, as well as fun novelty races for children. The Avenue of the Clans will be filled with clansmen from all around the country and the host clan this year is Clan Keith.Scottish food is very much a part of the day and visitors are encouraged to set up their picnic rugs under the trees where they can sit back and enjoy the activities around the arena.Dancing starts with the under 8s through to the Hector McDonald Trophy and the North Island Championship Open event. The Highland Dirk Dance, in which the dancer flourishes a weapon, is a favourite and is often linked to military sword dances. Judges for this event are Shelley Easton, from Palmerston North, and Bridgette Marchant, from Auckland.The day will finish with a Celidh or dance in the Coronation Hall, led by the Twisty Willow Band.Info: www.waipugames.co.nz
Games celebrate Scottish traditions
summerfeature
29 December 17, 2014 Mahurangi Matters
7PM 31ST DECEMBER 2014 AUTHENTIC ITALIAN BUFFET LIVE MUSIC & FIREWORKS AT MIDNIGHTTICKETS $104.90PP INCLUDES BUBBLY ON ARRIVAL
SHAKESPEARE IN THE VINES SAT 3RD & SUN 4TH JAN 2015 A CLASSIC NIGHT OF ENTERTAINMENTSHOW TICKETS $59.90 SHOW & DINNER TICKETS $104.90
NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY
New Years Eve
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FREE SHUTTLE TO LOCAL BEACHES
The place to be since about 1903
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ticketgiveawayMahurangi Matters has a double pass to giveaway. Just write your name and daytime contact phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Abbey Grange Competition, Mahurangi Matters PO Box 701 Warkworth or send us a message Facebook/mahurangimatters or [email protected] with the subject line: Abbey Grange. Competition closes December 19.
Siblings Cara and Yuri Govender make up the South African band Abbey Grange.
South African indie-blues two-piece Abbey Grange will play at the Leigh Sawmill on December 20.The brother-sister group, consisting of Cara and Yuri Govender, have won acclaim in their home country, playing large festivals and receiving standing ovations and widespread press coverage.Cara says they visited NZ last year and fell in love with the place and are back this summer for a two-month tour.“We thought it would be a good place in which to extend our fan base. We are
really looking forward to it,” Cara says.The duo has received thousands of hits on Youtube for the clips they’ve recorded in their family home in Durban. Clara says they are a dynamic band, rotating between instruments, from acoustic and electric guitar to drum, keyboard and violin.Their name is a combination of the recording studios used by their two favourite bands – The Beatles and Led Zeppelin – who recorded at Abbey Road and Headley Grange.
African indie-blues coming
Pipers to compete
summerfeature
30 Mahurangi Matters December 17, 2014
Celebrating the Christmas Season with
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All season - Dec 1st to Jan 31stLots of new stock.
18 Queen Street • Phone 425 8408
W A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T HW A R K W O R T H
Don’t leave townuntil you’ve visited the
Best Little Menswear Shop around.
Happy Holidays
from Ken & Kathy
09 422 5709 • www.craftsmaninteriors.co.nz • 021 189 8807
417 Old Woodcocks Road, Warkworth
Popular Kiwi bands Shihad, The Datsuns, I Am Giant and Cairo Knife Fight will rock Matakana on January 3.It follows another successful year for Shihad whose ninth album, FVEY (pronounced Five Eyes) debuted at number one on the country’s Top 40 albums chart in August.The legendary kiwi rockers will be joined by The Datsuns, who they toured with in 2006. The Datsuns have been busy this year touring UK, Europe and Australia with their sixth album Deep Sleep.I Am Giant are now based in the UK
and have been touring the US and Europe with their second album Science & Survival, which has stayed on the NZ charts since its release in July.Cairo Knife Fight are releasing their debut album next March, after releasing their first single Rezlord in this year.The bands will be playing throughout the North Island for the summer tour. The Matakanaval festival at Matakana Country Park includes the option of pre-booked camping tickets. Return shuttles from Omaha Surf Club and Warkworth I-Site are available, along with a return bus from Auckland to Matakana.
Legendary kiwi rockers Shihad are touring their latest album FVEY.
Shihad set to rock Matakana
ticketgiveawayMahurangi Matters has a double pass to giveaway. Just write your name and daytime contact phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Shihad Competition, Mahurangi Matters PO Box 701 Warkworth or send us a message Facebook/mahurangimatters or [email protected] with the subject line: Shihad. Competition closes December 22.
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31 December 17, 2014 Mahurangi Matters
Christmas 2014 at
5 Pulham Road, Warkworth. Phone 425 8861
This Christmas season we are celebrating the 200th Anniversary of the preaching of the first Christian message in NZ. We invite you to come and join with us in these celebrations.
Dec 21 - Family Service 10.30am at Mahurangi College
Dec 24 - “Te Harinui” Christmas Eve Carols 6pm & 10pm, Warkworth
Dec 24 - 8pm at St Andrew’s Matakana Country Park“
Dec 25 - 9.30am Christmas Day Warkworth
Dec 28 & All Sundays in January 9am & 10.30am For more information visit www.mahu.org.nz
www.warkworthwellsfordhospice.co.nz ● (09) 425 9535
24 DECHospice Garage Sale
WEDNESDAY 24 December 7 to 11am(Note: Garage sales resume on 7 January)
51 Woodcocks Rd Warkworth, Phone 425 9535
6 JAN
DEC to
Christmas lights at 31 Ashmore Cres(off Melwood Drive) Warkworth
Throughout December until 6 January ● Donations to Hospice
ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND
art exhibitionMatakana School Hall
Preview Thursday 22 January 2015 from 6pm Open all weekend 12pm Friday to 12pm Monday
22-26 JAN
THANKS & MERRY CHRISTMAS from Warkworth Wellsford Hospice
THANKS & MERRY CHRISTMAS
The trade section of next month’s annual Warkworth A&P Lifestyle Show is shaping up to be well-supported with a greater number of exhibitors than usual.Show secretary Marjorie Blythen says she has been pleasantly surprised by the number of enquiries from businesses in the north, particularly those based in Whangarei and Dargaville.The 148th show will be held on Auckland Anniversary Weekend, January 24 and 25.More than 7000 people are expected to go through the gates for the family-friendly event, which is becoming a showcase of rural life in Auckland’s north.Traditional events on the Saturday include the animal classes such as cattle, dairy goats and alpaca competitions, sheep shearing, sheep dog trials and the hugely popular Puhoi Axemen.In the main arena, as well as the trade sites, there will be a Village Market which was introduced last year. Entries for the home grown produce, cake decorating and floral art exhibits in the Indoor Section are welcome, and there will be a food and wine section.Other attractions include live music, the Warkworth Pipe Band, miniature ponies, a petting zoo, a dance display and the popular sheep racing, as well as children’s sideshows and the Fairy Princess and Pirate competitions.
Strong interest in A&P ShowA lot of care and attention goes into presenting the animals at the Warkworth A&P Show.
Show jumping classes on the equestrian field will be held on the Sunday.Anyone interested in securing a trade stall should contact the A&P office on 422 2052.Information about the show is also available on their facebook page at Warkworth A&P Lifestyle Show.
Shihad set to rock Matakana
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32 Mahurangi Matters December 17, 2014
www.woodyswinners.co.nz
221 Rodney St, Wellsford09 423 8258 [email protected]
See our Children’s Toys & Games & much, much more in our
online store at...
Something for everyone!Don’t leave town til you’ve see the range
of fantastic gifts at Woodys Winners.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
More than your Lucky Lotto Shop
at the Top of Town
Students at Snells Beach School got a taste of what’s in store in the summer Dare to Explore reading programme.
The free Dare to Explore summer programme run by Auckland libraries, which encourages children to take an adventurous approach to reading, is underway.The theme for the season is Out of this World and will take young ‘explorers’ on 60 challenges at home, on holiday, in the library, at the beach or online. “Research shows our programme focus on fun, engagement and exploration has positive impacts on literacy outcomes for children,” Auckland Libraries manager Allison Dobbie says.
“Those who continue to read over summer return to school with an increased or maintained reading ability. The programme is particularly helpful for children with lower reading confidence.”Last year, a record 8330 children joined the Dare to Explore programme.This summer, Te Reo is being introduced in response to feedback. Dare to Explore will run until January 18 and is open to all children aged from five to 13 years old. Enquiries welcome at all local libraries.Info: aucklandlibraries.govt.nz
Reading adventure takes children out of this world
COME ON IN AND GET YOUR
FROM OUR EXPERIENCED TEAMNEW LOOK FOR 2015
09 425 0441 | 27-35 QUEEN STREET, WARKWORTHMON-TUES-WED & FRI 9AM-5PM • LATE NIGHT THURS 9AM-7PM, SAT 9AM-2PM
Merry ChristmasMerry Christmas
and safe travelling over the holidays
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33 December 17, 2014 Mahurangi Matters
Nine-piece brass band Niko Ne Zna will bring their high energy Balkan-gypsy sounds to the Leigh Sawmill on January 6.The band recently had three songs featured in the Taika Waititi and Germaine Clement movie What We Do in the Shadows including the song for the ending credits.The band consists of two trumpets, saxophone, bass and tenor trombones, sousaphone, percussion, Balkan bass drum (tapan) and snare drum. In the best tradition of Roma gypsy bands, Niko Ne Zna roam while playing, giving the whole performance an authentic flavour, enchanting the
audience into dancing, singing, clapping and stomping all night long.Vocalist/percussionist Nikkie Rich sings in Serbian, Romani, Macedonian and Greek and the name Niko Ne Zna means ‘no-one knows’ in Serbo-C roatian.Band member Frankie Curac says the Wellington band always gets a great reaction in the north.“There seems to be a lot more people with Balkan heritage in northern NZ and it seems to mean a lot to them. I had a guy come and kiss me on the lips at the end of one of our shows. The music is huge in Eastern Europe, but has a big following here too.”
ticketgiveawayMahurangi Matters has a double pass to giveaway. Just write your name and daytime contact phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Niko Ne Zna Competition, Mahurangi Matters PO Box 701 Warkworth or send us a message Facebook/mahurangimatters or [email protected] with the subject line: Niko Ne Zna. Competition closes December 23.
Niko Ne Zna
Foot-stomping gypsy brass
Reading adventure takes children out of this world
We’ve got the surfi ng bug and we’re keen to pass it on • Kids & adult surf lessons • Holiday surf programmes • Surfi ng tours • School & youth groups
P: 09 434 3843 | www.oneillsurfacademy.co.nz | [email protected] |
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34 Mahurangi Matters December 17, 2014
TASTE‘Tis the season to be baking!
Xmas mince pie pans
Perfect Xmas Cakes
Beautiful Jam RollsBoozy Xmas
Pudding?Pudding?Then you’ll need one of these.
Perfect Xmas CakesRound or Square. Take your pick.
Beautiful Jam RollsJust like Grandma used to bake!
pie pansIn stock now.
Don’t miss out!
Merry Xmas
16 Mill Lane, Warkworth • 425 0302Email: [email protected]
www.tastematakana.co.nz
10 FLAVOURS OF OUR HOMEMADE SAUSAGES
FREE RANGE TURKEY & CHRISTMAS HAMS
SPECIALTY RANGE OF SMALL GOODS
BULK ORDERS FOR BULK PRICESROLLED BEEF, LAMB, PORK OR WHOLE LAMBS
& PIGS AVAILABLE FOR SPITSSPIT HIRE • BOOK NOW!
Open: 8-5.30pm Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 8-2pm Sat | Late night � urs 6pm
09 422 7012 | [email protected] Matakana Valley Road, Matakana
Order by phone or email
Supplier of
PURELY PETraw
dog food
242 Mahurangi East Road Snells BeachP. +64 9 425 5588E. [email protected]. www.saltydoginn.co.nz
THE
Salty DogINN
In the heart of the Matakana Coast
Salty Dog Inn Gig GuideDECEMBERDEC 25 Christmas Day – ClosedDEC 30 Gish ComedyDEC 31 New Years Eve – OverdriveJANUARYJAN 3 Something Beginning With BJAN 10 DamageJAN 16 Tyler Bothers DuoJAN 24 Usual SuspectJAN 30 Theme Night (Theme to be confirmed)
FEBRUARYFEB 6 KaraokeFEB 14 Valentines Day – Sue DysonFEB 21 Recliner RockersFEB 27 Fairy Tale Party
Military Arts owner Max Carpenter is calling on his former NZ Army colleagues to create special obstacles for the extreme challenge fundraiser.
Those who think it’s fun to crawl through mud drains and jump over electrified fences will be in extreme challenge heaven at a fundraising MatakanaXRun next month.Military Arts at the Matakana Country Park want to raise $20,000 for The Puriri Tree Foundation Trust, a charity that supports youth development.The extreme challenge on January 10 will be more than 5.5km long and involves 65 obstacles. Along with the normal confidence course including a 150m mud drain, monkey bars, catwalks, walls and a lake, the extreme course will include hay bales, horse jumps and special obstacles designed by the NZ Army. Military Arts owner Max Carpenter says confidence courses were designed by the military as team building exercises and are perfect for youth development and identifying future leaders.“It forces them to problem solve, look for help and think about others. To overcome obstacles and get through the course they need to help their friends and work together as a team,” Max says.He says the Puriri Tree Foundation has supported a lot of young people to attend the Military Arts programmes over the years, and the fundraiser is a chance to give back. About 20 people will be volunteering, including the Omaha Surf Club to monitor water activities. Max is also calling on his old army mates from 14 Battery, 16 Field Regiment, Royal NZ Artillery to
create military grade obstacles.“While there’s a competitive element, at the end of the day it’s a fun run and we’ll be encouraging teams to help and give each other a lift.”MatakanaXRun is designed as a two-person event with open male, open female or mixed gender team options. All competitors will be electronically tagged and timed. Info: The MatakanaXRun is on Saturday January 10 at the Military Arts compound inside the Matakana Country Park. Cost per team is $160 or early bird bookings (by December 31) are $140. Book by phoning 422 9944 or e-mail [email protected]
Extreme obstacle challenge fundraising in military style
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35 December 17, 2014 Mahurangi Matters
HORSE RIDING WARKWORTH
42 Kaipara Flats Road Phone 09 425 8517 Email: [email protected] Google: horse riding warkworth
42 Kaipara Flats RoadEmail: [email protected]
• Quiet horses and ponies• Farm & Forest treks• Birthday rides• Lessons available• Social or family groups• English study tour groups• Holiday and weekend horse riding camps• People with disabilities welcome• On the doorstep of Sheepworld, Matakana and Goat Island
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL
1 hour ........ $452 hours ...... $80
No eftpos or credit cards
Gift vouchers available
8th March 2015 see details at www.wwtrolleyderby.co.nzSponsored by Mahurangi Matters
Warkworth musician Andy Richards is off to the reality show X Factor boot camp next month after being selected from a total of 5000 contestants.Andy is one of 100 contestants who have made it through the auditions after playing in front of a panel of four judges and a live studio audience last month.“I was one of the last people to perform and everyone kept coming off the stage saying the judges were being horrible, but I went out there and they were lovely,” Andy says.All Saints singer Melanie Blatt and Australian Idol winner Stan Walker have returned to judge the second X Factor series alongside new husband and wife judges Willy Moon and Natalia Kills.“They said I am a great performer and entertainer but that with my background playing covers gigs, I need to make sure I bring originality to my music. I’ve been writing my own music for a long time so I don’t think that will be a problem.”The four-day boot camp starts on January 11, where the musicians will be put through their paces. The final
24 will go on the Judges Retreat, where each judge takes six performers to different locations around the world. The final 12 performers will go through to the live-to-air finals.“I’m just going to go and have fun. I’m 31 and I’ve got nothing to loose.“If I can get my name out there and can tour the country playing my music, that’s my dream.”The winner of X Factor gets a recording contract with Sony Music NZ. Andy has already released an album and an EP, and has been a fulltime musician for about 18 months, playing four or five covers gigs every week around Mahurangi and in Auckland.His band Andy Richards and The Grand have also made it through to the national Battle of the Bands finals.More than 100 bands entered the competition and 20 will compete in the final at the Kings Arms on December 19 and Juice Bar on December 20.Andy has entered the Battle of the Band about five times, but this is the first time he has made the final.
Musician beats X Factor heats
15 Neville St, Warkworth • Phone 09 425 8521 [email protected] Find and like us on Facebook
Quality Used
New
Children’s & Teen
Contemporary & Classic Fiction
NZ History & Biographies
Food & Gardening
Book Orders Welcome
Gift Vouchers
The bookshop adventure for booklovers
Traditional butchery making all our own Sausages & Dry Cured Bacon
free range/organic meats availablegluten/dairy/& nitrate free options
New Butchery at 10 Queen St WarkworthNew No 09 425 9947 Phone orders welcome
Extreme obstacle challenge fundraising in military style
Warkworth musician Andy Richards has
been playing about five gigs a week at local
pubs and weddings.
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36 Mahurangi Matters December 17, 2014
Warkworth – Snells Beach – Matakana – Omaha – Leigh
Pool / Spa ValetsOnsite Chemical TestingWater Chemical Supplier
Pool Equipment ReplacementRepairs & Maintenance
Pool Refurbishmentsimplesilver agent
(09) 422 9524021 952 338
Michelle Woolley
PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFTS
IN STORE NOWSTOCKING MENS & LADIES CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES
CYBELE SYLVESTER JULIAN DANGERCOLLETTE DINNINGAN AUGUSTINE
COMMONERS BEN SHERMAN DIESELPOLITIX AND MANY MORE...
TWO
TWO
www.twoboutique.co.nz2 MATAKANA VALLEY ROAD, MATAKANA
(MATAKANA VILLAGE COMPLEX) 09 423 0101
River Nile Linens988 Matakana Road, Matakana 0948Ph 09 422 [email protected]
www.rivernilelinens.co.nz
Luxury Pure Cotton Bed Linen • Egyptian Cotton Bed Linen • Duvet Covers • Turkish Towels • Table Linen • Gifts and Vouchers • Make to measure
OPEN DAYS Dance Dimensions
has sold to Monique Poirier.
Now called Gravity Dance Studio.
Come along to our OPEN DAYS, have a go at any dance style
& meet the team.
Fun friendly atmosphereSausage sizzle, spot prizes,
a chance to WIN a term ofFREE DANCE LESSONS.
PLUS 10% off new registrationsBallet, Jazz, Hip Hop,
Contemporary, Tap and Performance Classes
Monique PoirierMobile: 021 217 2207
Sat 17th & 24th Jan9am - 2pm
The organisers of mARTakana have sourced some fresh and exciting art talent for the 2015 exhibition on Auckland Anniversary Weekend.The five-day art sale will feature some local favourites as well as artists from further afield whose work has never been shown at this exhibition. Now in its ninth year, mARTakana is held in the Matakana School Hall and raises funds for Warkworth Wellsford Hospice. Fundraising coordinator Lesley Ingham says artists have been invited
with a view to having a variety of media and styles, and a wide range of prices.The exhibition opens with a preview at 6pm on Thursday January 22, where guests will be treated to wine donated by Omaha Bay Vineyard and food featuring specialty cheeses donated by Puhoi Valley. Entry is by donation.The show will then be open from noon on Friday until noon on Monday, with free entry. mARTakana is sponsored by Bayleys Real Estate.Info: warkworthwellsfordhospice.co.nz
Waiheke artist Katie Trinkle Legge is one of 12 artists who will exhibit works at mARTakana for the first time.
Hospice presents new work
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37 December 17, 2014 Mahurangi Matters
Are you tired of hearing your kids saying ‘Mum I’m bored !!’ ?
Then make your bookings now for our fantasticJANUARY 2015 Holiday Programme!
Some great fun is planned with trips toAction World, Sky Tower, Motat, Maritime Museum
also Beach Days, Picnics, Art and Craft, Pizza making and much more!
Information Booklets are availablecontact Cool Kids (027 931 1311)
or Warkworth School (425 8300).Enrolment forms can be downloaded from the school website
www.warkworth.school.nz
School Holiday ProgrammeJanuary 2015
Cool Kids Warkworth(MSD approved OSCAR programme)
110a Moir Point Rd, Mangawhai
bikemangawhai @gmail.com
09 431 4546
Giant Bicycles, for children to adults.
Road, mountain, commuting & folding bikes.
Packs, Racks, Helmets, Gloves & all the other bells n tassles.
Fully qualifi ed bike mechanic.
Book those bikes in to be repaired.
Santa Shed available for pre Christmas pick up.
Expert sales staff to make sure you fi nd the bike & equipment that suits your needs.
NOW OPEN 9AM - 5PM TUES - FRI • 9AM - 12PM SAT • OR BY APPOINTMENT
GREAT SUMMER AR OT E H
IB NIT IX
Snells Beach Community CentreHamatana Road, Snells Beach
Preview EveningSun 28th Dec, 7pm – Admission $10
Exhibition Opening hours:Mon 29th Dec - Fri 2nd Jan, 9.30am - 4.30pmSat 3rd Jan, 9.30am - 12 noon
Cafe Open Daily
CHRISTMAS EVE & NEW YEARS EVE MARKETS 24th December and 31st DecemberMANGAWHAI VILLAGE HALL FROM 9am
FOOD, FUN & FREE ENTERTAINMENTGET YOUR LAST MINUTE SHOPPING • GIFTS GALORE
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE • ARTISAN CRAFTS & MUCH MORETo book contact Sharon 0274 860 133 [email protected]
Discounts and vouchers avaliable on: -Dive Gear-Training Courses-Charters
Get your dive gear serviced now before the season starts!
Visit us at 22 Whitaker Road, Warkworth(09) 422 3599 or 021 221 3971Email: [email protected]
Hospice presents new work
Since she was a teenager, listening to Elemeno P from a dinghy in the estuary backing onto Mangawhai Tavern, Jamie McDell has always wanted to play at her “local”.Ten years later, the 22-year-old singer-songwriter finds it surreal that Elemeno P’s drummer Scotty Pearson is now in her back-up band for her first gig at the tavern on December 27. The all-ages gig is also a double billing with Jason Kerrison, founder of NZ band Opshop.“It seemed so prestigious, they have such huge bands and I only dreamed I would play there one day,” Jamie says.Although many of Jamie’s dreams have come true since then, including playing to massive crowds at Vector Arena, she was determined to play in the town that has influenced her music.Jamie was discovered at the age of 16 by EMI Music New Zealand (now Universal) after sending them a demo tape of her pop acoustic music. Today, she has a collection of number one singles, won Best Pop Album at the 2013 NZ Music Awards and has more than 200,000 followers on Facebook.She says Mangawhai, where her family had a bach and now live full time, was the home of her song writing. “It’s where I got time to myself and wrote everything. I just liked writing
ticketgiveawayMahurangi Matters has a double pass to giveaway. Just write your name and daytime contact phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Jamie McDell Competition, Mahurangi Matters PO Box 701 Warkworth or send us a message Facebook/mahurangimatters or [email protected] with the subject line: Jamie McDell. Competition closes December 22.
Memories of Mangawhai
Jamie McDell
outside in beautiful, clear open spaces.” A video for one of her most popular songs Life in Sunshine was filmed at Mangawhai.These days Jamie still tries to make it back to the beach, where she enjoys sailing, scuba diving and longboarding.However, in the past year, she has been missing home as she travelled to Australia and Los Angeles while writing her latest album Ask Me Anything, which will be released in February. Once again Mangawhai influenced her writing as she pined for home, including the song My Old Hands. She also recorded the video for her song Dumb at the Old Cement Works in Warkworth.
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