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WIN a FREE Deluxe 6 month SMART Link advertising Plan - to be in the draw -
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If you'd like to support another one of our Coastie businesses you can WIN with Linku2 Hibiscus Coast in our community draw -WIN a $30.00 voucher to any Coast business of your choice by commenting with -
2. COMMUNITY: The name of the business you'd like to win the voucher from
To find a local business, club, group, service or event check out Linku2 Hibiscus Coast and with school holidays on the way remember to check out our sister site Hibiscus Coast page at Linku2 School Holidays for lots of local family fun!!!!
And remember we have a great local events calendar too!!
When buying a property that you plan to rent out, or if you are a tenant moving in to a new property do you know if it complies with the Healthy Homes Standards and if you're not sure do you know final compliance deadlines?
The healthy homes standards seek to bridge the quality disparity between rental properties and owner-occupied homes, ensuring that the approximately 600,000 renting households in New Zealand can enjoy cozier, drier living conditions.
Regarding the standards: The Residential Tenancies (Healthy Homes Standards) Regulations 2019 came into effect on July 1, 2019, with the objective of tackling issues related to coldness, moisture, drainage problems, and drafts in rental properties. These regulations establish baseline criteria for:
All rental homes need to comply with the Healthy Homes Standards by 1 July 2025 and up to that date landlords have 120 days from any new tenancy to comply.
So who can help you check if the property you are looking at reaches the standards?
If you're on the Hibiscus Coast or North Shore we recommend a qualified building inspector and Healthy Homes inspector in Phil Yang from A Buyer's Choice.
With 15 years of experience in the construction industry, Phil has cultivated a keen interest in home inspection during his extensive career. This deep-seated passion has been a driving force behind his decision to transition into the home inspection sector.
Phil has earned full certification as a building inspector by successfully completing examinations administered by AHIT and InterNACHI, showcasing his commitment to professional development and expertise in the field.
The heating standard underwent revisions in May 2022 to account for the improved thermal performance of new homes constructed or renovated according to the 2008 building code requirements for insulation and glazing, as well as certain apartments. These changes imply that smaller heaters are generally adequate to maintain the required warmth in such types of dwellings.
To determine the appropriate heater size, landlords can utilize the heating assessment tool provided by Tenancy Services.
To meet the heating standard, landlords must furnish one or more fixed heaters capable of directly heating the primary living space in a rental property. These heaters cannot be open fires or unflued gas heaters; they must be permanently installed and not portable.
Acceptable heaters typically include heat pumps (if equipped with a thermostat), wood burners, pellet burners, or flued gas heaters. In specific cases, such as small apartments, a smaller fixed electric heater may suffice.
Ceiling and underfloor insulation are obligatory in all rental homes where it is feasible to install them.
The healthy homes standards categorize New Zealand into three climate zones, each with distinct insulation requirements. You can find information about these zones on Tenancy Services.
Insulation standards are measured by the R-value, indicating how effectively insulation resists heat flow. Higher R-values represent better insulation, and this value will be clearly displayed on the product packaging.
Any newly constructed or renovated property that complies with the updated 2021 Building Code insulation requirements will also meet the healthy homes insulation standard. Landlords who installed new insulation since July 1, 2016, and have it in good condition are likely to already meet the healthy homes standard.
Tenancy Services offers an online tool to help landlords determine whether they need to upgrade or replace their insulation to meet the healthy homes standard.
Inadequate ventilation can lead to mold and dampness issues, posing health risks to tenants and property damage to landlords.
To address mold and dampness stemming from poor ventilation, rental homes must have operable windows in the living room, dining room, kitchen, and bedrooms. Additionally, kitchens and bathrooms must be equipped with extractor fans.
The ventilation standard was updated in May 2022 to permit the use of continuous mechanical ventilation systems that exhaust air outside from kitchens and bathrooms, provided the ventilation system received building consent on or after November 1, 2019.
Moisture Ingress and Drainage: Moisture can be a significant source of dampness in a residence, leading to health concerns for tenants and property damage.
Rental properties must possess effective drainage systems for managing stormwater, surface water, and groundwater. In cases where a rental property features an enclosed sub-floor space, landlords must install a ground moisture barrier if it is feasible to do so. If installing a ground moisture barrier is not possible, landlords are not required to install alternative moisture barriers.
Addressing draughts can help reduce heating expenses for tenants and maintain comfortable living conditions in rental properties.
Landlords must ensure that their properties do not contain excessive gaps or openings in walls, ceilings, windows, skylights, floors, and doors that result in noticeable draughts. Additionally, all disused open fireplaces must be sealed off or their chimneys blocked to prevent draughts.
Landlords who fail to meet their obligations under the healthy homes standards are in violation of the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 and may be subject to exemplary damages of up to $7,200.
Most new or renewed tenancy agreements are required to include a compliance statement containing specific information about the rental property's current level of compliance with the healthy homes standards.
Private landlords who initiated or renewed tenancies between July 1, 2021, and August 27, 2022, must ensure their rental properties meet the healthy homes standards within 90 days of any new or renewed tenancy. Private landlords who commence or renew tenancies on or after August 28, 2022, must ensure compliance within 120 days of any new or renewed tenancy.
Kāinga Ora and registered Community Housing Providers have until July 1, 2024, to comply, while all private rentals must comply by July 1, 2025.
In 2020, surveys of renters and landlords were commissioned to assist HUD and the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (MBIE) in monitoring the implementation of the Healthy Homes Guarantee Act (HHGA). These surveys aim to track awareness of and compliance with the healthy homes standards through annual online surveys of renters and landlords nationwide.
For more information on the Healthy Homes Standards and tools please visit the Tenancy Services website or give Phil a call on 021 0286 6368 or email him at phil.yang@abuyerschoice.co.nz to get started on ensuring your proposed property complies with the Healthy Homes Standards.
The following is a range of activities across the Hibiscus Coast and immediate surrounds
Our Favourites …
Auckland Adventure Park
2104 East Coast Road, Silverdale 09 426 5555 - "You make the time, We'll make the magic!" Whether looking for family fun, an adrenalin rush, adventure activities or good food head to Auckland Adventure Park for a great time
Orewa Beach
Ph: 09 426 2638, www.orewabeach.co.nz - 3 km long pristine beach, Alfresco dining, boutique shopping, picturesque 7 km cycleway, reserves, playgrounds, parks and walkways … where Auckland shines
Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre
159 Brightside Road, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparaoa, - Swimming, gym, splash pad, family fun and swim lessons
Plus lots more Things to Do and Places to Go …
Bohemian Museum - Puhoi 09 422 0852 – Housed in the historic Convent School and displays many exhibits. Open daily 1.00 to 4.00 pm
Glass Bottom Boat - Goat Island Marine Reserve Leigh 09 422 6334 -World renowned for its abundant marine life. A range of bird life can also be seen around Goat Island
Goat Island
Marine Discovery Centre - 160 Goat Island Road Leigh 09 923 3645 – Get up close and swim amongst the fish or take a boat trip. Visit the Goat Island Marine Discovery Centre and learn about New Zealand’s unique marine environment. Area includes a beautiful sandy beach.
Goat Island Dive - 142a Pakiri Road Leigh 09 422 6925 - Snorkel and dive equipment to hire or buy, guided snorkeling, try dive, dive trips, and dive courses from entry to professional levels at the beautiful Goat Island Marine Reserve.
Hauraki Gulf Cruises - Gulf Harbour Marina 09 367 9111 - A number of trips can be taken to the Gulf Islands from Gulf Harbour, with a greater selection from Auckland City. For details see Fullers Cruises.
Hibiscus Jetski Hire - 022 685 7409 - Jetski hire on 2018 Yamaha EX jetskis - various Hibiscus Coast beaches
Historic Couldrey House - Wenderholm Regional Park 09 426 1200 - Victorian/Edwardian historic home in the grounds of Wenderholm Regional Park. Couldrey House
Kawau Island Experience and Lodge - North Cove, Kawau 027 242 8937 - Enjoy Kawau Island in the Hauraki Gulf regular ferries from Sandspit near Snells Beach
Matakana Farmers Market - Matakana 0210 225 5828 - A popular market in the heart of Matakana Village every Saturday morning
Pakiri Beach Horse Rides - Pakiri Beach, Horse trekking, riding holidays and overnight stays. Beach riding. 317 Rahuikiri Road, Pakiri - 09 422 6275
Parakai Springs 150 Parkhurst Road Parakai 09 420 8998 - Hot spring spa and pools
Puhoi River Canoe Hire - 84 Puhoi Road Puhoi 09 422 0891 - Canoe the Puhoi river to Wenderholm Regional Park
Saltwater Eco - Tawharanui Peninsula, Matakana 0210 433 184 - Saltwater Eco lead the way in responsible marine recreation! We bridge the gap between recreation and conservation by delivering high quality Surf and Snorkel experiences with an Educational and Eco twist!
Sheepworld - 324 State Highway One Warkworth 09 425 7444 - Sheep shows, animals, cafe and great family entertainment
Silverdale Pioneer Village - 15 Wainui Rd Silverdale 09 426 8272 - Historic Village in Silverdale (open every day except Tues). Silverdale Pioneer Museum
Snowplanet - 91 Small Road, Silverdale - Indoor snow resort. Ski-ing, snowboarding, tubing, lessons, holiday programmes and great family fun. Ph: 09 427 0044
Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre - 159 Brightside Road Stanmore Bay Whangaparaoa 09 424 9227 - Swimming, sports and classes for all the family including aqua classes, gym and swimming
Ten Pin Bowling Whangaparaoa - Coast Plaza Stanmore Bay Whangaparaoa 09 428 2469 - 12 lane bowling alley including arcade gaming and internet gaming. Lots of family fun
Tiritiri Matangi Island is a wildlife sanctuary and one of New Zealand's most important and exciting conservation projects. It is located 30 km north east of central Auckland and just 4 km from the end of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. A hundred and twenty years of farming had seen this 220-hectare island stripped of 94% of its native bush but between 1984 and 1994, volunteers planted between 250,000 and 300,000 trees. The Island is now 60% forested with the remaining 40% left as grassland for species preferring open habitat.
In conjunction with this planting programme, all mammalian predators were eradicated and a number of threatened and endangered bird and reptile species have been successfully introduced, including the flightless takahe, one of the world’s rarest species, and the tuatara. There are few places in New Zealand where you can readily see and walk amongst so many rare species.
The project is managed by the Department of Conservation in conjunction with the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi Incorporated.
Ferry timetable:
CLICK HERE for ferry timetable.
From Auckland 9:00am/from Gulf Harbour 9:50am - Returning from Tiritiri Matangi at 3:30pm, arrives Gulf Harbour 3:50pm/arrives Auckland 4:40pm
Information courtesy of tiritirimatangi.org.nz
1. Te Ara Tahuna Estuary Cycleway and Walk
Te Ara Tahuna Estuary Pathway provides an excellent bike ride, or riding with children on bikes or scooters.
Accessed from Western Reserve, at the southern end of Orewa beach and just 40 minutes drive north from Auckland centre. The path features tributes to the estuary's past as a significant food gathering place for Maori including six carved seats created by Auckland's prison's carving group, carved from Macrocarpa trees felled during the walkway construction. Five of the seats represent the various hapu of the Kaipara Harbour who travelled to their traditional fishing grounds in the Orewa estuary to collect seafood.
The sixth seat was unveiled in memory of Kiara Morgan, a young Orewa girl who died of cancer in 2011.
The pathway is 7.6 km long and passes along the edge of the estuary through bush trails and quiet residential areas. It is mostly sealed and flat.
The pathway (travelling anti-clockwise) follows the Millenium Walkway through Western Reserve and distance markers are placed every 1 km so you can track your progress! Connects to walk Nos 1, 2 and 3 below.
| Orewa Walks 1. Alice Eaves Scenic Reserve Old North Rd, Orewa. 30–45 mins. Fine remnant stand of native kauri and broadleaf forest at northern end of Orewa. Lower track beside Nukumea Stream to Kensington Park suitable for wheelchairs. Good examples of kauri and puriri. Pa site at Hillcrest Rd entrance. 2. Orewa Esplanade Reserve Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa - 45–60 mins. Paved walking track along northern half of beachfront reserve. Runs from Arundel Reserve, at northern end, to the town centre. Links to No 1 above. 3. Orewa Millennium Walkway Orewa Township. 2 hours. ‘Oval’ walkway. Start from south bridge, follow estuary to Centreway Reserve, turn left down Riverside Rd and cross road into Grant Park, along Hatton Rd through Victor Eaves Park to link with Eaves Bush returning to south bridge via Orewa beachfront. Follow the blue footprints. |
4. Maygrove Reserve
Riverside/Lakeside Drives, Maygrove, Orewa. A variety of walkways through residential areas, esplanade reserve and around the artificial lake in Lakeside Reserve. Wet in winter. Range of short and long walks.
5. Pohutukawa Reserve/Orewa Estuary
Pohutukawa Ave and Moffat Rd, Orewa. 30–45 mins. Grass reserve walkway on south side of estuary running from Orewa south bridge to Jelas Rd/Kingsway School into Totara Views subdivision.
Whangaparaoa Walks
1. Amorino Reserve
SH1/Hibiscus Coast Highway, Red Beach. 15–30 mins. Reserve walkway beside Orewa estuary mouth, linking with surrounding residential streets. Start of Whangaparaoa Peninsula’s ‘Coastal Walkways’. Follow signs on lamp posts.
2. Red Beach Reserves
Vista Motu and Marellen Drive, Red Beach. 30-45 mins. An informal walk between various reserves in the centre of Red Beach. From Red Beach Lookout Reserve take walkways into Higham Ferrers Reserve, cross Bay Vista Dr into Gilshennan Reserve, follow path to right and follow walkways to Rushden Terrace and Red Beach Park, cross Marellen Drive to beach.
3. Red Beach section of Coastal Walkway
Ngapara St – Duncansby Rd, Red Beach. 30 mins. Walk along beach from Ngapara St to Duncansby Rd. May be restricted at high tide.
4. Stanmore Bay Beach
Cooper Rd and Stanmore Bay Reserve, Stanmore Bay. 15–30 mins. Walk along beach from Cooper Rd/Lea Reserve to Stanmore Bay Park. Cross arch bridge at eastern end of park to link to No. 3 above
5. Stanmore Bay Reserve to Manly Beach
Stanmore Bay Rd – Moreton Dr, Manly. 15–30 mins. Walk from end of Stanmore Bay Rd and take track up through historic cemetery. Left into Ardern Ave and cross to next accessway. Turn right into Swann Beach Rd to the top corner and next accessway with steps through to Hurdlow Place and Moreton Drive / beach.
6. Manly Beach to Tindalls Beach
Brown St – Tindalls Bay Rd, Tindalls Beach. 15–30 mins. From end of Brown St, walk along beach (restricted at high tide) to boatramp. Cross footbridge by sheds to accessway to The Crescent. Follow road round Crown Reserve to Tindalls Beach.
7. Tindalls Beach to Matakatia Beach
15–30mins. From centre of beach, take series of accessways through to Whangaparaoa Rd. Cross road and turn right to top of hill, then left into reserve accessway down to Matakatia Beach.
8. Gulf Harbour
Shakespear Rd – Gulf Harbour Drive, Gulf Harbour. Walkways progressing as Gulf Harbour estate develops. Network utilises reserves, roads and runs through the golf course. Range of short and long walks. Toilets at boatramp.
9. Fisherman’s Rock/Pacific Parade
Fisherman’s Rock Reserve, Army Bay. 60–90 mins. Coastal clifftop walk from Fisherman’s Rock Reserve to eastern end of Pacific Parade. Two clifftop staircases and stone ramp provide access onto rocky foreshore. Access between Fisherman’s Rock and Pacific Parade Reserves via foreshore, restricted at high tide.
10. Shakespear Regional Park
Army Bay, Whangaparaoa Peninsula. Various marked tracks ranging from 1 – 2 hrs around farm park at end of peninsula. Open sanctuary under development behind predator-proof fence. Bookable picnic sites and camping. Sweeping views of Hauraki Gulf and islands. The Heritage, Tiri and Okoromai tracks are medium difficulty and are approximately 9 km. Click here for basic Shakespear map.
11. Tiritiri Matangi Island
Take ferry from Gulf Harbour Marina. Open sanctuary for some of New Zealand’s rare and endangered plant and bird species. Home to saddlebacks, kiwi, takahe, bellbird and other native birds no longer seen on mainland. A variety of walking tracks across island.
12. Tiri Rd – East Ave Clifftop
Starts at 33 Tiri Rd, Little Manly. 5–15 mins. Short clifftop reserve walk between Tiri Rd and East Ave cul de sac. Good views of Hauraki Gulf.
13. Little Manly Beach
South Ave – Little Manly Beach, Little Manly. 5–15 mins. Shore reserve and clifftop walk from South Ave to beach.
14. Arkles Bay Clifftop
Ladies Mile – Arkles Bay. 5–15 mins. Short clifftop walk from Ladies Mile/Whangaparaoa Rd intersection to Arkles Bay beach through coastal bush. Steep flight of steps at Arkles Bay end.
15. Whangaparaoa Town Centre to Stanmore Bay beach
Town centre – Brightside Rd, Stanmore Bay. 15–30 mins. From town centre via Palmgreen Court and reserve, walkway to Rata Rd. Walkway half way along Rimu Rd on right leads into Stanmore Bay Park past leisure Centre. Cross Brightside Rd to beach side of reserve.
16. Stanmore Bay Reserve to Town Centre
15–30 mins. From the back of the leisure centre, via wetland walk to Rata Rd, Palmgreen Court or Red Hibiscus Rd and onto Whangaparaoa Rd.
17. Ferry Road Reserve. Ferry Rd, Arkles Bay
5–15 mins. Short reserve walk through coastal bush to foreshore of Weiti River near mouth of river. Timber steps at top. Slippery rocks on foreshore.
18. Fairhaven Walk. Wade River Rd, Arkles Bay
30–45 mins. Rough dead end walking track off end of Wade River Rd past boat club on banks of Weiti River flanked by native bush with some big puriri trees.
19. Okura Walk
Duck Creek Rd, Stillwater or Haigh Access Rd, Redvale. 2–2.5 hours from Stillwater through muddy pastures and along foreshore to historic Dacre cottage (composting toilets alongside). 3–3.5 hours from Okura (Haigh Access Rd) through Scenic Bush Reserve. Coastal walk between Weiti and Okura Rivers. Boots required. Check out Okura Walk details
Again, there is a view of Mexican food that doesn’t do it justice and this is because of the way this has become one of the most popular #world cuisines in recent years. The
Mexican cuisine is primarily a fusion of indigenous Mesoamerican cooking with European, especially Spanish. The basic staples include corn, beans and chili peppers with a number of other foods introduced by the Europeans, in particular, meats including beef, pork, chicken, goat and sheep, dairy products (especially cheese) and various herbs and spices.
When conquered initially by the Spanish, they tried to impose their own diet on the country, however the foods and cooking techniques began to be mixed. Eventually African and Asian influences were also introduced into the mix.
Tortillas, chimichangas, fajitas and chili con carne have been adopted by Western restaurants as Mexican food, but this only really represents Northern Mexico. The food of Central and South Mexico is subtler with many dishes derived from the ancient Mayan culture.
Mexican cuisine is an important aspect of the culture, social structure and popular traditions of Mexico. Native ingredients include tomatoes, squashes, avocados, cocoa and vanilla
The main meal of the day in Mexico is the "comida". This is eaten between 1.30 pm and 4.00 pm. It typically consists of an appetizer, a soup or salad and the main course: seafood, meat or poulty, rice and/ or beans and of course some hot tortillas.
You will find tortillas all over the country, along with plenty of eggs and vegetables. Chilies, chocolate, tomatoes and cumin are also major flavourings.
Mexicans work around their eating schedule unlike us in the Western world!
Traditionally we think of Mexican food as being tacos, salsa, quesadillas, beans, tortillas and enchiladas
Thinking about having a guinea pig as a pet? For many guinea pigs are ideal pets for kids and families as they are cute, cuddly, tolerant of boisterous kiddies and are relatively low maintenance. Here are six good reasons to own a Guinea Pig:
However, guinea pigs can be messy!
Guinea pigs are herbivores and require a high-fibre diet. They should have grass or grass hay available at all times. Lucernce or clover hay can be offered but not as the sole source of fibre as they are high in calcium and protein. Suitable grasses include clover, buffalo grass and oat grass. Guinea pigs also enjoy dandelion, milk thistle and a variety of fresh herbs.
If you are a clean freak you might want to think twice about a guinea pig. They are slobs. They poo in their food, water and bedding. They scatter their bed into their water and their water into their food. So because they can't do it, you need to check, clean and restock their food and water containers daily.
Enjoy!
Running is a popular health kick in New Zealand and can become quite addictive but running isn’t just good for the heart. Read on for some of the other great benefits then get those running shoes on and head out into our Spring sunshine!
1. Healthy heart - Running is one of the best ways to give your heart muscle an effective workout. By running regularly you can improve circulation, and reduce the risk of a heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke.
2. Weight loss - The average runner burns 1,000 calories an hour during a training session. So expect to get thinner, which will in turn help you run faster.
3. Osteoporosis - If you run on a regular basis you are continually taxing your muscles and bones so the bones are stimulated to remain stronger and do not easily weaken with age. So bye bye osteoporosis.
4. Mental health - A regular running habit will you lift your mood and build self-esteem. It also increases your self-confidence as you reach fitness and/or weight loss goals. Running can help relieve mild depression.
5. Sleep - Studies show that runners find it easier to get to sleep at night and sleep longer. Insomniacs take note.
6. Stress - Running increases your ability to cope with everyday minor irritations and stresses.
7. Happiness - Endorphins engendered by exercise mean that people who run are often happier than those who don't: ever felt that sense of elation during or after a run (known as the runner's high)? Running regularly can also improve patience, humour and ambition, and make you more good-tempered and easy-going.
8. Anxiety - Runners generally have a lower level of anxiety than those who don't run. One study suggests that regular training reduces the activity of the serotonin receptors in the brain which regulate mood. Reduced sensitivity of these receptors to stimulation might explain the positive effects of exercise on anxiety.
9. Immune system - If you are a runner you will find that you have a stronger immune system, that means you'll suffer less from minor illnesses such as colds, allergies, fatigue, menstrual discomfort, backache, and digestive disorders.
10. Brain power - You can increase your mental functions by going running as it boosts blood flow to the brain and helps it receive oxygen and nutrients, making you more productive at work.
11. Complexion - Running stimulates your circulation, improving the transportation of nutrients around your system and flushing out waste products. This will help make your skin clearer and give you that distinctive runner's glow.
12. Fat burn - By running you are building lean muscle, changing your body composition and your metabolism. Lean muscle weighs heavier than fat, but burns more calories even when you're resting, so cultivate a regular running habit and you should see a gradual, healthy inch loss.
Source: www.zest.co.uk
With some products it simply doesn’t make sense to buy new at full price when invariably you can find the same quality buying second hand. By doing so you can often see your savings quickly multiply. Here are examples of some of the best items to consider buying second hand.
Car - Probably the first thing that springs to mind would be a car. Did you know if you buy a new car it depreciates by up to 20% as soon as you drive out of the car yard! Even just going for last year’s model can be a huge saving. Once a car is over five years old you can expect to get only a third of the original price.
Books - Both text books and reading books. Nowadays you can of course buy online making huge savings. However for those who enjoy the feeling of holding a book there is an abundance of second hand book stores and book fairs. Another option is to ask your friends or on facebook, invariably someone will have finished the book you are after and happy to pass on or sell at a very good price. For text books often your college or learning facility will have a library or rental department you can use if it is not a book you will need on-going.
Children’s Clothing - Often you can find some wonderful items through friends and family, websites for swapping or buying/selling second hand clothes and of course shops such as your local Hospice or Salvation Army store always have some great bargains. In fact, while you are at it there are often great bargains for adults as well as a book section too!
Pets - It almost seems a sin to pay the hundreds of dollars you can do for pets in a store when there is such an abundance of abandoned and yet loving, beautiful pets at the SPCA and other shelters. If you are considering getting a pet make sure you check these out first - you may be there last hope for a good home!
Formal clothing - Whether a wedding gown, ball gown or dinner jacket there are so many people that head out and spend the earth to wear something just once! You can make some wonderful savings. Also designer stores can sometimes have seconds on sale at significant savings often with flaws barely noticeable!
Video games and DVDs - Once someone has completed the game or seen the movie more than 4-5 times it is time to move on and you can take advantage and get some great bargains.
Home Gym Equipment - Yes, the fad comes, the fad goes and so often equipment merely sits in someone’s garage or spare room collecting dust. Do check on the condition but generally so many people lose interest before the equipment has barely been used!
Hand Tools - Simple tools with few moving parts, hammers, wrenches, screwdrivers, etc can last for decades if well made and maintained and often easy to find in garage sales or online.
Musical Instruments - Particularly when your child is starting out buying new is not wise. Either second hand or perhaps rental can give you an idea of how long their interest will last. If the interest continues and the ability is good you can change your stance later.
Bicycles - Like cars new season bikes come out all the time. Do check the condition of the bike and also ensure it isn’t stolen! Also if you can wait until the cooler months you can often get better bargains on bikes from those who no longer want to brave the elements!
So much of what we buy devalues as soon as we open the box or walk out the store so save yourself some dollars and use it for something else you enjoy!
We have hunted out our five favourite dive sites in New Zealand. New Zealand reportedly has more scuba divers per capita than any other country in the world. Whether it's cruising around reefs in subtropical Northland water, or exploring a subterranean fresh-water cave system, Kiwis are at home under the water.
POOR KNIGHTS ISLANDS
If you're looking for superb diving opportunities in New Zealand, you cannot go past the Poor Knights Islands, off the coast of Tutukaka, near Whangarei. Jacques Cousteau named it as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world and more recently Diver magazine called it the world's best subtropical dive.
Warm currents swept in from tropical waters further north support 125 different species of fish, as well as corals, sponges, kelp forests and stingrays. This is the place to go for stunning displays of underwater colour: Reef fish mingle with sponges, anemones and vibrant seaweeds.
The islands are the remains of a group of 11-million-year-old volcanoes and underwater cliffs drop to 100m below sea level in places. Caves and archways shelter species that usually would be found much deeper than they are here - in the Rikoriko Cave, 10m below the surface, is a sponge usually found 200m down.
The Poor Knights include the world's largest sea cave - so big that it's reputed to have hidden a Japanese submarine during World War II.
Visibility is best in winter, when divers can see up to 30m. But as the water warms up, plankton moves in and decreases visibility, although it boosts fish life. Watch out for passing humpbacks and turtles.
RAINBOW WARRIOR
Still in the north, Greenpeace's flagship boat was sunk at the Cavalli Islands in 1987, two years after its infamous bombing in the Auckland harbour. It is now an artificial reef teeming with marine life and a very popular dive site. But reports from divers say that the wreck appears to be disintegrating at an increasing rate, so this is one to visit sooner rather than later. The wreck is 27m below the surface, and about 40m in length.
It is covered with gorgeous jewel anemones - but some experts say it takes a night dive to see them at their very best. On a normal day you could expect to come face-to-face with golden snapper, kingfish, john dory, mackerel, scorpion fish, moray eels and crayfish.
There are usually mild currents and visibility is good from February until the end of June.
RIWAKA CAVERNS
A unique opportunity for divers of any skill level, the Riwaka Caverns near Nelson are a massive underground network of caves and tunnels, filled with fresh water. A bush walk leads you to the start of the dive, where you slip underwater and swim through a series of enormous caverns.
It's cold and very dark at the beginning but once you surface inside, you can take your scuba equipment off and marvel at the stalactite and stalagmite formations as well as a waterfall of pink limestone inside the cave at the end of the second sump.
Divers comment on the unexpected size of everything to do with this dive - from the boulders they clamber over to the caves themselves. Explorers have so far ventured about 800 metres into the network, called the Riwaka Resurgence.
WHITE ISLAND
There are not many places in the world where you can dive around a live volcano but New Zealand is one of them.
White Island, about 50km off the coast of Whakatane, is a 200,000-year-old volcano surrounded by water that is full of marine life, including kingfish, stingrays, moray eels and blue maomao.
Fissures in the rocks create a ''spa-pool'' effect of bubbles in places. The water temperature hovers about 18 degrees but can get to 22 degrees in summer and divers report up to 50m visibility, with reefs, pinnacles, drop-offs, boulders, archways and plateaus to explore. Stop for lunch or to snorkel at Champagne Bay, which gets its name from the thermal activity in the water. Rare diadema urchins have made their home at White Island - check them out at Diadema Rock.
HMNZS WELLINGTON (F69)
After 18 years in the New Zealand navy, the Wellington is now the most accessible dive wreck on the planet, just off the coast of Wellington, about 10 minutes from the airport. Scuttled in 2005, the wreck has been broken up into three sections by currents and is a living reef, home to many different species of fish.
The wreck is roughly 24m down, with visibility of about eight metres. Being Wellington, divers are warned to watch for currents. Dive around the gun turret or take in the exterior of the ship - diving in the midship and stern sections is not advised. This is as safe as it gets for wreck diving, though, you will not even need a torch.
Article courtesy of Hamilton News - 3/12/12
