The Westerly

The Westerly Free community magazine from Hobsonville to Massey. Print run 15,000 households and pick up stand distribution.
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To find out how you can advertise your business then email us at [email protected] The Westerly is a sister publication to the Kumeu Courier (www.kumeucourier.co.nz) which offers cost effective advertising rates. The profits from the publication are invested locally into the area and into memorable charitable events. Therefore advertising is easy on the pocket and it feels good too. The

publication is an A4 colour magazine format 64 pages on high quality gloss stock. Editorial is interspread with business card, quarter page, half page and full page advertising spread throughout the publication. No position loadings apply, and space is allocated on a first in basis. Editorial can be supplied at no cost (around 150 words and colour photograph no logos) to [email protected]

Advertising can be purchase as a colour business card (50mm high x 95mm wide) at $100 + GST. With a vast community contributor base and an active social fabric The Westerly offers an impressive range of short articles, with relevance to people within the area or wanting to live in the area. We provide a canvas for locals to communicate with locals. We have pitched the Westerly as a high quality casual read that can be picked up five or six times within a month for relevant, current views, opinions and advice.

09/10/2025

Update from Anna Atkinson – Upper Harbour Local Board Atkinson - Upper Harbour Local Board

One of the best things about local boards is that we get to make decisions that directly affect the lives of our communities. Whether it’s a new playground, a transport safety project, or planning future facilities, the work we do has a real impact close to home.

At Te Kori Scott Point, the board recently held a workshop to plan the next stages of development. Options being considered include a modular skate area, undergrounding the water tanks, extending the carpark, building a hard court (future-proofed for a cover), exploring a community space, and opening up the back area. These ideas will go out for consultation before anything is finalised, but it’s great to see progress.

Later this month we’ll also allocate the last of our Local Board Transport Fund. Proposals include safety markings on Picasso Drive near Marina View School to slow traffic, and new footpaths and carparks along Clark Road at Te Kori Scott Point.

Beyond our local work, two major issues are being considered by the council that will affect Auckland for years. The first is the replacement for Plan Change 78, which originally allowed three three-storey houses on most sections. A new proposal, likely out for consultation next year, includes major zoning changes in Hobsonville and West Harbour — despite no transport funding for Hobsonville Road intersections in the ten year plan.

The second is a possible law change to bring Auckland Transport back in-house. This could improve long-term planning but also create very different approaches across Auckland. We will have to make it work for us.

Wishing you a happy spring,
Anna Atkinson. These views are my own and not those of the Upper Harbour Local Board.

Greetings- Spring Forward! This is the time of year when many of our community look forward to better weather, more time...
08/10/2025

Greetings-

Spring Forward! This is the time of year when many of our community look forward to better weather, more time outside, catching up with friends and new opportunities. The sight of fresh blossom, flowers and Spring foliage on bare branches can be energising. Local Elections signal an opportunity for us to contribute towards decisions that will be made to our area; they impact every part of our daily lives. Collection of rubbish, the state of local roads, facilities like libraries and parks. It is the most grassroots level of our democracy – the place where potholes get fixed, parks are built, and local voices matter. It’s easy to take these services for granted, and for people to wonder what they get for their rates, without seeing how councils shape their lives.

You can look up online at policy.nz the details of the candidates standing in your local area, together with details of their policies on a range of topics such as climate change, the environment, housing and planning, transport and local services, among others. Just opening the orange election envelope gives information on candidates to enable you to make an informed vote. Research shows that early engagement with political processes is habit-forming, so if younger members of your whānau are eligible to vote, please encourage them to do so. October 7 is the last day for posting votes by mail, while election day is October 11.

Welcome to the October issue of the Westerly. As the size of the magazine grows it incorporates a wider range of information and activities in the local area. The needs of the local communities are well provided for, together with a broad range of ideas and suggestions for caring for your property. Check out Graham’s views on the current market and how this may help in making a decision. Be aware of the risks of fire and how to minimise risk. As the weather becomes warmer it’s time to start planning your garden. See what our advertisers have to offer, and please tell them that you saw their details in the Westerly.

Let us all spring forward together to actively participate in as many aspects of our neighbourhood as we can. We live in a great place!

John. Editor.

Hazardous substances in the workplaceDoes your business keep a hazardous substances register or even know what hazardous...
07/10/2025

Hazardous substances in the workplace

Does your business keep a hazardous substances register or even know what hazardous substances it has?

In New Zealand, managing hazardous substances is governed by strict regulations to ensure safety, health, and environmental protection. The Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO Act) is the primary legislation overseeing hazardous substances. This Act provides a comprehensive framework for controlling the importation, manufacture, use, storage, and disposal of hazardous substances and new organisms.

Key requirements include:
1- Classification and labelling: Hazardous substances must be properly classified according to their risks and labelled with appropriate information, including hazard symbols, warnings, and safety instructions. This ensures users understand the risks involved.
2- Approval and certification: Before manufacturing or importing hazardous substances, companies must obtain approval from the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). This process assesses the risks and ensures proper controls are in place.
3- Storage and handling: Regulations specify how hazardous substances should be stored and handled to prevent leaks, spills, or accidental exposure. This includes requirements for secure storage facilities and safety procedures.
4- Transport: The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) regulates the transportation of hazardous substances, requiring compliance with specific packaging, labelling, and route restrictions to minimise risks during transit.
5- Emergency management: Businesses handling hazardous substances must develop Emergency Response Plans and train staff to handle spills, leaks, or exposures effectively.
6- Record-keeping and reporting: Accurate records of hazardous substances and prompt reporting of incidents or leaks to authorities are mandatory.

Non-compliance with these regulations can result in significant penalties, including fines or imprisonment. Therefore, businesses involved in hazardous substances management must stay informed of current laws and ensure all practices comply, promoting safety and environmental sustainability in New Zealand.

If you would like help with this subject or anything else related to Health and Safety, contact John Riddell from Securo, email [email protected], or visit www.securo.co.nz.

Massey Birdwood Settlers Association and Hall Established in April 1925, the Massey & Birdwood Settlers Association Inco...
06/10/2025

Massey Birdwood Settlers Association and Hall

Established in April 1925, the Massey & Birdwood Settlers Association Incorporated is one of Auckland’s earliest resident and ratepayer organisations. Originally formed by local families—including names like Luckens and Spargo, whose legacies persist in local landmarks—the Association first met in a one-room schoolhouse and was officially incorporated that same,

Its core mission has always been to advance the well-being of the Massey and Birdwood districts as both residential and commercial communities. The Association liaises closely with local and governmental bodies to ensure fair and beneficial allocation of rates and services, while also promoting social, cultural, and recreational amenities. In 1954, the government granted the Association rights over land on the Massey Birdwood Domain, where they constructed a community hall, which was opened by 1956. Today, this hall, known as "the Den" or Massey Community Hall, continues to serve as a vibrant community hub. It's used by a wide range of groups—from indoor bowls, kindergartens, and language schools to youth services, meetings, and social clubs.

The Association's impact over the decades has been considerable: it helped defeat a proposed landfill in the 1980s, championed improved public transport, and supported community infrastructure such as local libraries and playgrounds.

The Association remains active today, encouraging residents to join (for just $1) and continuing to represent locals, deliver advocacy, and maintain community solidarity. Its executive includes individuals like Dr Ershad Ali (President), Dr Keith Hammett (Vice-President), John Riddell (Secretary), and Craig Andrew (Treasurer).

If you would like to enquire about hiring the hall or joining the Association, email John Riddell, [email protected].

Seniors' Wellness Expo - Go for goldMonday 3 November 2025. 10am - 2pm Sunderland LoungeCinema Road, Hobsonville PointJ...
05/10/2025

Seniors' Wellness Expo - Go for gold

Monday 3 November 2025. 10am - 2pm Sunderland Lounge
Cinema Road, Hobsonville Point

Join us for a day dedicated to celebrating and supporting the wellbeing of older adults in our community. Come anytime between 10am - 2pm.

Light refreshments provided.

Discover services, groups and resources that encourage healthy, connected and purposeful living.

Optional short presentations including:

• Movement & core strength
• Cooking nutritious and easy meals (even for one)
• Fall prevention
• The big wide world of public transport
• …and more.. All free. All are welcome. Come along for a fun, informative, and uplifting day.

Any questions, or if you would like to be involved, contact
[email protected]

Playhouse Theatre Incorporated Glen Eden Playhouse Theatre presents...Playhouse Theatre Inc. is pleased to announce its ...
02/10/2025

Playhouse Theatre Incorporated
Glen Eden Playhouse Theatre presents...

Playhouse Theatre Inc. is pleased to announce its upcoming production – The Tael Solutions Ltd season of The Hunchback of Notre Dame – running from 11 – 25 October 2025 at the Glen Eden Playhouse Theatre.

The show features songs from the Disney animated film, with a soaring score by Alan Menken and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, while drawing its inspiration from Victor Hugo’s classic novel.

Set in 15th-century Paris, the story centres on Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer of the famed Notre Dame Cathedral. Portrayed by Daniel Wright, Quasimodo is a character of deep humanity whose courage and kindness lie at the heart of the story.

Esmeralda, played by Zaverr Doctor, is a free-spirited and compassionate Romani woman who refuses to be silenced by prejudice. She sees Quasimodo’s worth when others do not.

Sam Iosefo takes on the role of Archdeacon Frollo, a man torn between rigid devotion to the church and his own darker desires. Balancing this is Captain Phoebus, portrayed by Patrick Cunneen, a soldier whose sense of honour is tested when he becomes entangled with both Esmeralda and Frollo.

Guiding this production are directors Charlotte Harris and Jacob Harris, whose vision and creativity bring fresh energy to this beloved musical.
This production is supported by a live orchestra and choir, bringing to life Menken and Schwartz’s magnificent score.

Playhouse Theatre Inc. is committed to making live performance accessible. On Sunday 19 October, the theatre will host a hearing accessible performance of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, which will include interpretation in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL).

Event Details
The Tael Solutions Ltd season of The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Dates: 11 – 25 October 2025
Venue: Glen Eden Playhouse Theatre
Tickets: On sale now at Eventfinda

How diabetes can affect healing times Hobsonville Physiotherapy If you’ve ever been asked by your physiotherapist, “Do y...
02/10/2025

How diabetes can affect healing times Hobsonville Physiotherapy

If you’ve ever been asked by your physiotherapist, “Do you have diabetes?”, it’s not just a routine question, diabetes can influence how quickly your body recovers from injuries.

Why it matters
Healing depends on good blood flow. Healthy blood vessels can expand and contract to deliver oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues. In people with long-term or poorly managed diabetes, high blood sugar can make vessel walls stiff, reducing circulation and slowing recovery.

Diabetes can also affect nerve health, particularly in the hands and feet. Reduced sensation can make it harder to notice if an injury is worsening, which may delay treatment.

What this means for recovery
For some, injuries may take up to twice as long to heal. Letting your physiotherapist know if you have diabetes means they can adapt your treatment plan, monitor progress, and offer strategies that support optimal healing.

Not everyone with diabetes experiences delays, but being proactive helps. Your physio can provide tailored exercises, wound care advice, and tips to keep your circulation and mobility strong.

Talk to your Physio
If you have diabetes and are recovering from an injury, ask your physiotherapist how it may be affecting your healing. We’re here to help you recover safely and get back to feeling your best.

Hobsonville Physiotherapy: 027 264 0003
[email protected]

Forest & Bird Waitakere Waitakere Forest and Bird Talk: Thursday 16th October 7:30pm John Dyer - The role of Fish & Game...
01/10/2025

Forest & Bird Waitakere
Waitakere Forest and Bird Talk: Thursday 16th October 7:30pm
John Dyer - The role of Fish & Game's management of game birds

Recently retired Northern Wildlife Manager for the Auckland and Waikato Fish & Game Council John Dyer will talk about his experiences and management of waterfowl over the past decades.

This includes the reasons and data behind the annual banding of thousands of grey and mallard ducks, many of these done by volunteers and people learning to band. It also covers past banding of paradise shelducks, current aerial monitoring of Canada geese, black swan and paradise shelducks. The other part of his job he’ll discuss will be the law enforcement of the Wildlife Act and freshwater fisheries management..

Venue: Ranui Community Centre 474 Swanson Rd, Ranui. Non members welcome, join us for supper to chat with like minded people, free but koha appreciated to cover hall hire. For further information ph Liz 0274 762732 [email protected]

Partnering with tradies to build outstanding landscapes 10 MEGA Henderson At Mitre 10 MEGA Westgate & Henderson, we kno...
30/09/2025

Partnering with tradies to build outstanding landscapes 10 MEGA Henderson

At Mitre 10 MEGA Westgate & Henderson, we know tradies are the backbone of every successful landscaping project. Whether you’re building a new deck, installing fencing, laying pavers, or sourcing plants and irrigation for a large-scale job, having the right products and reliable support makes all the difference. That’s where we come in.

Our stores are stocked with everything you need to get the job done efficiently and to the highest standard. From structural timber and retaining wall systems to aggregates, concrete, garden edging, and outdoor lighting, we’ve got the lot under one roof. Need a bulk product? No problem – we can help organise supply in the volumes you require, so you can keep your projects on schedule.

But what really sets us apart is our dedicated Trade Account Managers. They’re here to support you every step of the way – helping you source the right products, manage stock availability, and provide tailored solutions for your business. Think of them as an extension of your team, ensuring you spend less time chasing materials and more time on the tools.

We understand the demands of the trade industry – tight deadlines, client expectations, and the need for quality products that deliver. That’s why we focus on making it simple: competitive pricing, easy ordering, and knowledgeable support to keep your projects moving.

So whether you’re a landscaper, builder, or contractor, you can trust Mitre 10 MEGA Westgate & Henderson to back you up with the tools, materials, and trade support you need. Let’s build great outdoor spaces together.

Central Landscape Supplies West Central Landscape Supplies Swanson - Celebrating 35 years of ‘Digger Dan’.If you’ve ever...
30/09/2025

Central Landscape Supplies West
Central Landscape Supplies Swanson - Celebrating 35 years of ‘Digger Dan’.

If you’ve ever ordered landscape supplies out West, chances are you’ve heard of ‘Digger Dan’.
This year, Dan Rissetto and his hardworking team are celebrating 35 years in the landscape supplies business, and it’s been quite the journey.

It all started in 1990…
Back in 1990, Dan’s father, Wayne Rissetto, opened the very first Central Landscape Supplies on O’Rourke Road in Penrose. The business moved a couple of times before finding its home in Swanson in 2003. In fact, the Swanson yard first opened a bit further up the road, before relocating to the current site at 598 Swanson Road.

Dan Rissetto (L), Father Wayne and late brother Phillip (R)

A family legacy
Dan joined the business straight out of school, starting as a yardman, then progressing to truck and loader driving. By 2005, he’d taken over ownership of the Swanson yard and even ran three locations at one point—Avondale, The Concourse, and Swanson.

Today, Dan and his wife Nichole are the powerhouse duo behind the Swanson site. With 25 years at the current location, they’ve built a reputation for friendly service and genuine local support.

Supporting the community
Giving back is a big part of what Dan and Nichole do. Central Landscapes Swanson sponsors local schools, sports teams, business events, and community projects.

“We are so grateful to Swanson Central Landscape Supplies for their incredible generosity in supporting local charities like ours. Without hesitation, they donate amazing prizes to our Waitākere Kindergarten Gala, helping us raise funds for new resources that benefit our tamariki. Businesses like theirs truly strengthen our community.” Emily Poole - Waitākere Kindergarten

A yard that does it all
Swanson is now one of the largest yards in the Central Landscape Supplies group. From rich garden soils and composts to decorative stones and pebbles, they’ve got just about everything to help bring your outdoor vision to life.

No room for a truckload? No problem. Dan and his team offer bagged options to cater to smaller spaces—perfect for modern, compact gardens.

Service with heart
It’s not just the products that make Swanson stand out. The team is known for their helpful advice, skilled delivery drivers, and genuine care for customers. It’s no surprise they were named Runner-Up Franchise of the Year in 2024. “The best thing about my business is the customers,” says Dan.

They proudly service West Auckland and growing regions like Henderson, Massey, Te Atatu, Te Atatu Peninsula, Glen Eden,Titirangi—and even make deliveries out to Piha and Helensville.

A true family business
The Rissettos don’t just work in the community—they live and breathe it. Nichole handles accounts and operations, and now their three daughters, Summer, Charlotte and Willow, are getting involved during school holidays and weekends. It’s truly a family affair.

Dan Rissetto (C), with his daughters Summer (L) and Charlotte (R)

Here’s to 35 years of grit, growth, and great gardens. Congrats, Digger Dan
598 Swanson Rd, Swanson, Auckland
[email protected]
Ph: 09 833 4093
centrallandscapes.co.nz

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2 Clark Road
Hobsonville
0618

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+642102854178

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