Channel Magazine March 2025

THE LIFESTYLE ISSUE

Proudly published by

Distributed to homes with welcoming letterboxes in Devonport, Cheltenham, Stanley Bay, Stanley Point, Vauxhall, Narrowneck, Bayswater, Belmont, Hauraki, Takapuna, Milford, Westlake, Forrest Hill, Crown Hill, Castor Bay, Sunnynook, Campbells Bay, Mairangi Bay, Murrays Bay, Northcote, Birkenhead, Chatswood, Northcote Point, Birkenhead Point, Hillcrest and to businesses, shopping centres and foyer/reception

interview: Renee Rigden Phoenix Theatre’s 'Così' at The PumpHouse

Takapuna Beach Café scores the pour!

Shoneet Chand & Matt Prentice

Welcome to our first update of 2025. Last year was a busy year for us where we completed over 100 transactions, sold over $344 million in property, and leased over 67,000 sqm of space. We finished the year on a positive note by completing several notable transactions across Auckland and found that market activity is picking up, with buyers increasingly optimistic about interest rate cuts expected in 2025.

Combined with the reduction in term deposit rates, we expect investment demand will continue to increase as the year progresses and yields to progressively sharpen. Buyer enquiry has noticeably increased on current campaigns which will generally translate into greater competition and a more buoyant market.

Above is a selection of recent transactions completed in late 2024. We have several exciting opportunities coming to market in the months ahead, alongside quality off-market opportunities across Auckland.

If you’d like to discuss your requirement or get an appraisal on your property, feel free to give Shoneet or Matt a call on their details below.

Vacant Brand New Industrial Units!

Savour summer: A guide to heartburn-free indulgence!

As we enjoy the summer season, the last thing anyone wants is the discomfort of heartburn putting a damper on the fun. Acid reflux or heartburn often causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat and is a common condition for many people. Consider these practical tips to manage heartburn during the summer break:

1. Portion control: Keep an eye on serving sizes, opting for meals that leave you satisfied without feeling overly full.

2. Hydration (with water): Stay well-hydrated with water to aid digestion. Cut back on alcohol and caffeine, as they are known to worsen heartburn symptoms.

3. Sleep strategies: Try sleeping with an extra pillow or elevating your bed head slightly for a more comfortable night's sleep, reducing the chances of night-time reflux.

4. Stay active: Regular exercise isn't just about burning off extra holiday calories; it's also great for overall digestive wellness.

If lifestyle changes alone aren't bringing relief, consult your GP about medications, which are often effective. However, if you experience persistent reflux symptoms or any other issues like:

• difficulty swallowing,

• anaemia,

• pain,

• vomiting,

• chronic cough, or

• unexplained weight loss, It's crucial not to ignore these symptoms. They can signal more serious health issues, and in such cases, a gastroscopy is recommended. A gastroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves placing a thin tube with a light and camera into the stomach

for a comprehensive examination. It helps identify reflux damage and rules out other serious conditions.

At Waitemata Endoscopy, taking a proactive approach to your gut health is easy. We accept GP, specialist, and self-referrals via our website. Our experienced specialists can perform an endoscopy for you within seven working days of receiving the referral.

Make your digestive health a priority this summer with Waitemata Endoscopy.

Mr Jason Robertson (MBChB, MMedSc, FRACS, AANZGOSA)

Surgeon & Endoscopist, Waitemata Endoscopy

To learn more, see waitemataendoscopy.co.nz

are dedicated to exceptional patient care

WE has been serving the Waitematā community for nearly 18 years, offering increased access to a group of experienced Surgeons and Gastroenterologists

Appointments are available within 7 working days for most standard Colonoscopy & Gastroscopy procedures by matching you with the availability of our Specialists*

www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/referrals

WE have you covered from 'Top to Bottom'

Talk to your GP about a referral to the Waitemata Endoscopy Group, or you can self-refer at:

Mr Jason Robertson Upper GI, Bariatric, Laparoscopic, General Surgeon & Endoscopist

ANDREW DORREEN

World class residence on 3189sqm2 of lakefront land

Presenting to you, one of the finest properties on the North Shore. This exceptional masonry home, designed by renowned architect Daniel Marshall, offers unparalleled luxury, timeless sophistication and a grand feeling of space, not often witnessed in most suburban homes.

You have the unique ability to live almost entirely on one level creating a wonderful, relaxed resort-like feel as you move through the home's multiple spaces. A well-thought-out design offers separate pavilions linked by the central kitchen. This is orientated around a spectacular pool and courtyard on one side, and a floodlit tennis court and gym on the other. With approximately 620 sqm of living space, the home consists of four

Andrew Dorreen / Precision Real Estate Ltd MREINZ

Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

separate bedroom wings, crafted to accommodate the largest of families, ensuring both privacy and places to gather – superb!

Entering the home through a stunning timber pivot door, you are immediately aware you are in a special place. Two double bedrooms, a bathroom and its own lounge are to the left of the entranceway and there is also another pair of bedrooms and a bathroom above the threecar garage. Moving through the home, the expansive kitchen offers an extra-long island bench which opens to a covered outdoor entertaining area with Louvre-Tec, outdoor fire, and a built-in barbecue. This overlooks the spectacular fully tiled 25-metre swimming pool, featuring

Email: andrew@precision.net.nz / precision.net.nz / andrewdorreen.com

Phone: 021 747 334

Over $1.3 Billion total sales

ANDREW DORREEN

23-27 LAKE VIEW ROAD, TAKAPUNA

a diving board and automatic cover. The kitchen features a butler’s pantry and a wonderful hidden sub-floor wine cellar! The kitchen leads into the second pavilion housing the main living, luxurious lounge, and dining room with vaulted timber ceilings and large glass sliders with spectacular views across the manicured lawns to the lake. The master suite consists of a spacious bedroom fronting the lake with magnificent views, a lavish ensuite and wardrobe, and its own sitting room/library with custom cabinetry by DBJ, again with double-stud timber ceilings.

There are a further two bedrooms that sit behind the master with their own living area, bathroom and loft space for children. This makes a

grand total of seven furnished bedrooms. The house is ideal for young or teenage children and has been designed for them to transition to other bedrooms in the house that give more separation as they grow.

A beautifully manicured flat lawn leads to the lake's edge. Stairs descend down to the lake with an expansive pontoon, room for lakeside dining and relaxing as well as a cedar boat shed for kayaks and water toys.

This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a world-class home, offering sophistication, comfort, and an enviable waterfront lifestyle.

Schedule a private viewing and experience everything this extraordinary residence has to offer.

Andrew specialises in marketing homes on the golden mile between Milford and Takapuna and around the waterfront. In the last eight consecutive calendar years, Andrew has sold over $100 million each year, at an average of over $5,000,000 per property – one of the highest (in volume and average sale price) residentially in the country. While he is renowned for dealing with higher value properties, Andrew has also carved a niche in the seaward side streets in and around Milford and Takapuna, especially with the lock-up-and-leave market. He sees a strong correlation between larger homes and the downsizer market assisting those vendors with their next purchase. If you are thinking of selling your home or purchasing a new one, please contact Andrew for a confidential discussion.

As I write this in late February, it is from sunny Arrowtown, where our Benefitz team is working as the signage partner for the New Zealand Open golf tournament held at Millbrook Resort.

What a wonderful part of the world this is, particularly at this time of the year. Often warm summer days, with crisp single figure temperatures overnight. It is an area that continues to grow and is facing challenges on many fronts because of this growth.

I particularly love all the cycle trails in this part of the world. Seems like there’s a new trail to explore every day. For me, it is also fact finding due to my role as chair of the Matakana Coast Trail Trust, which is working to build similar trails, branded as The Coastal Trail, on Auckland’s northern doorstep.

In this issue we once again have something for just about everyone. This magazine you are reading is just one of 22,000 copies produced this month to celebrate all the good things happening in our own slice of paradise, north of the harbour bridge.

A key feature in this issue is focused on retirement living. We have a very good range of options on this side of the bridge and many of them feature in this issue. We particularly enjoyed getting along to one of our local villages to chat with two different residents (Bill and Lillian) who reflect on over a decade of retirement village life. As you will read, they love it!

Another celebration in this issue is the news that Takapuna Beach Café now has a licence to serve alcohol with meals. This is one of New Zealand’s iconic cafés, so to be able to enjoy

Publisher/Advertising

a quiet wine with a meal will only enhance its popularity and be good for the North Shore. Takapuna Beach Café is a destination café that draws people from wide and far.

Christine Young has written an interesting piece on Shore resident Renee Rigden, who is involved in the ‘Look Good, Feel Better’ charity, among many other things. Renee’s enjoyed a career from corporate high-flier to mindfulness facilitator and nutrition and lifestyle coach and is currently working towards becoming a qualified naturopath and medical herbalist. Christine also talks to her about the publication of ‘The Healthy Start – Lunchbox Edition’ e-book, a joint project with holistic wellness advocate Sarah Tanner. Have a great March and enjoy this excellent issue of Channel Magazine. It’s totally free!

Aidan

Bennett, QSM Publisher, Channel Magazine Founder & Managing Director, Benefitz Email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz

Aidan Bennett 021 500 997 aidan@benefitz.co.nz

Advertising/Content Liz Cannon 021 204 3395 liz@channelmag.co.nz

Advertising/Content Kim McIntosh 021 419 468 kim@channelmag.co.nz

Designer Crystal Sharp crystal@benefitz.co.nz

Online and Social Media Klaudia Wal klaudia@benefitz.co.nz

CHANNEL MAGAZINE is published monthly (on the first Friday of the month) by Benefitz, PO Box 33-1630, Takapuna. 09 477 4700, benefitz.co.nz. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers. For further details on the magazine visit channelmag.co.nz or contact one of our team detailed above.

Aidan Bennett, Crystal Sharp, Liz Cannon, Kim McIntosh, Klaudia Wal

Exploring Ayrburn and Lake Hayes, near Arrowtown with my grandson Otto.

'Don't worry about a thing!'

- Martin Cooper entertains at BEN breakfast

Martin Cooper was the entertaining guest speaker at the North Harbour Club’s Business Excellence Network (BEN) breakfast, held on Tuesday 18 February at Regatta Bar & Eatery in Takapuna. Martin is well known on the Shore as the founder and MD of the leading real estate company, Harcourts Cooper and Co. As is the norm, he gave a lively presentation, starting off dancing into the event to Bob Marley's famous song, 'Three Little Birds', with the rousing chorus, 'Don’t worry about a thing”, which was the topic of his speech - the full house loved it! BEN breakfasts are presented by the North Harbour Club with support from BDO, Schnauer & Co, Westpac, Continental

For more information, visit northharbourclub.co.nz

Cars BMW, Regatta Bar & Eatery and Benefitz.

Geoff Wilson, Jo-Anne Thomas, Sue Kohn-Taylor, Martin Cooper, Arron Lomas, Erin Marmont and Andrew Hill

Bill Collins, Paul Williams, Tony Nicholson and Hayden Smith

Kimberly Laude, Bettany Cooper, Karen McKinlay and Liz Cannon

Courtenay Williams, Kurt Smith, Deb McKinnie, Rob Carter, Lewis Guy, Darren Bird, Mark Hayward and Nikki Revell

Colin Weeks, Sonia Harvey, Kevin Haviland and Rodney Jobse

David Green, George Steyn, Glenn Read and Barton Hoggard

Martin Cooper, Jo-Anne Thomas, Andrew Bruce, Sue Kohn-Taylor

Bayleys ProAm 2025 at Waitemat ā

Waitematā Golf Club in Devonport played host to the annual Bayleys ProAm 2025 on Monday 10 February. Players enjoyed beautifully fast greens, ridiculously hot weather (high of 27!), and a festive atmosphere. Tee off was at 1pm with plenty of refreshments before, during and after. Devonport New World provided a fabulous barbecue, fruit was supplied by Devonport Fresh Market, and drinks were offered by Ranga, Finery Drinks, DB Breweries and Hancocks, with water handed out to the players by Bayleys Real Estate. Congratulations to the winning professional golfer, Jimmy Zheng, who scored 65. A shout-out also to our own Waitematā Golf Club pro, Brad Shilton, who got a close second place, scoring 66. The winning team was Clem Gherardi, Paul Leonard, Aidan Noone and their pro Jared Edwards. Well done to all who enjoyed the day and made the event another fantastic success.

Waitematā Golf Club

Visitors Welcome Non-Playing Social Memberships available

Erin Marmont, Louise O'Sullivan, Paul Revill and Jackson Harvey

James Gray, Jon Sheridan, Marina Ito and Stan Harwood

Peter Forde, Jamie Palmer, Dong Woo Kang and Stu Nicholls

Sam Geange, Mike Kearney, Kunaal Singh and Vic Weeks

Paul Dunleavy and Gareth Patterson

Tom Abercrombie, Sean Blomquist, Okert Visser and Paul Wilkinson

Sue Stanaway, Chloe Mann and Kirsty Hewitt

Guy Borren, Chris Dominick, Geoff Braatvedt and Steven Oh

Jess Green, Rebecca Lewis, Wendy O'Hearn and Pamela Green

Whether it’s visiting the Eiffel Tower, or a cruise around the Mediterranean, Ryman are giving you the opportunity to tick a destination off your bucket list.

When you purchase an occupation right to an independent apartment or townhouse by 31 March 2025, we’ll give you a $15,000 House of Travel Gift Card*.

Ryman’s lock and leave lifestyle means you’re free to take off, knowing your home will be cared for. With fewer chores and more freedom, now is the perfect time to explore. Where will your next adventure take you?

Quay Travel treats with luxury cruising and fine wines

A fabulous evening was had at Quay Travel's Cruise & Wine Tasting event at L’alcool on Wednesday 19 February. More than 45 guests enjoyed an evening of luxury travel inspiration, fine French wines and delectable cheese platters. Sarah Porter from Ponant shared her incredible Arctic and Antarctica adventures, and Michelle Sutton from Quay Travel captivated guests with stories from her Kimberleys expedition, highlighting the raw beauty of Australia’s remote coast. Huge thanks to Richard Poole at L’alcool for hosting, Dan Jennings from The Artisan Hub for delicious cheese platters, and to Paul Cibulskis from Barton & Guestier, who guided guests through the exquisite French wines enjoyed throughout the event. It was a lovely evening held at a wonderful venue, blending luxury cruising, adventure, delicious food and fine wine.

At QUAY Travel, we specialise in crafting beautiful, luxury cruise experiences designed just for you We’re incredibly proud to be named a finalist for CLIA’s Cruise Agency of the Year (New Zealand) a testament to our expertise, exclusive perks, and personal approach. Whether you're sailing the Mediterranean, discovering remote corners of the world, or indulging in a European river cruise, our dedicated team are there to guide you every step of the way. We’d love to connect and help turn your cruise dreams into reality.

Donna Hill, Michelle Malcolm, Michelle Sutton, Paul Cibulskis, Emily Palmer, Lisa Lilley and Claire Taylor

Maree Holt and Tanya Lornie Julie and Marc Bernicoff Elaine and Merv Webb, and Dan Jennings

Michelle Malcolm, Richard Poole, Sarah Porter and Lisa Lilley

Dale Morgan and Wayne Highet

Bob Leveloff, Kelly Quinn, Judi and David Lovelace

Russell and Robyn Parkinson, Hayley Brown and Holly Taylor

Alison Leonard: From the cha-cha to Così

Broadcaster, natural-born performer and North Shore local, Alison Leonard takes the stage in Phoenix Theatre’s latest comedy play, 'Così'. Channel Mag chats with Ali about her journey to the stage, and her latest stage show coming up this March.

Alison Leonard is a familiar name and voice across Auckland and beyond, thanks to her career in radio and television. From 'Good Morning', 'Dancing With The Stars', The Breeze, and even 'Shortland Street', she has become a household name. With an infectious warmth and wit, it's hard to believe stand-up comedy hasn’t also been part of her repertoire. As a Shore local, Alison’s zest for life reflects not just a career in the limelight but a deep love for her community and the people around her.

Her love of dancing began at just five years old when she was drawn to the dazzling sequins of dancers at a competition. By eight, she was competing, eventually at an international level, before securing a place as a sharp-tongued judge on TVNZ’s 'Dancing With The Stars'. Alison fondly recalls the magic of that first season, especially the unexpected rise of Norm Hewitt, who surprised everyone with his skill and dedication. “The show changed the way people saw him,” Alison remembers, crediting that transformation to the power of performance.

It’s not uncommon, even 20-plus years since the first season aired, for people to stop Alison in the street as they remember Norm’s powerful paso doble, or the lighter moments from crowd favourites like Sir Paul Holmes with his 'Thriller' moves, or Beatrice Faumuina’s

It's a play about empathy. Written in the '90s but set in the '70s with the backdrop of the Vietnam War, it still feels very current with everything that's going on in the world today.

transition from track and field to top lines. It’s obvious from Alison’s smile that she enjoys these interactions. “Those first seasons really did capture the nation. We had a wonderful team, wonderful casts, and it was a pleasure to work within the walls of the great Avalon Studios - once one of the biggest purpose-built facilities in the Southern hemisphere.”

When Alison thinks back on her first taste of performing, she laughs at the thought of being kept home sick from school. She was upset about missing her class's poi performance, and in that moment, a spark for the stage was lit. From there, it was a natural progression to school musicals like 'Grease', where her very first performance helped make history; her school’s production was the first in Nelson to sell out before opening night. The joy of performing and the camaraderie of being part of something bigger continued to fuel her passion for the arts. Looking back, Alison reflects on the experience as both exhilarating and chaotic, a feeling that still resonates as she takes on new challenges today, including her current role in 'Così'.

“It’s a talented group of people,” she says about her cast mates. “They’re putting me to shame!”

'Così' is Alison’s third production with Phoenix Theatre after previously treading the boards in 'Ghost Writer' (2013) and 'Off The

This is not about laughing at people. It's laughing with them because life is essentiallyridiculous.quite

Henry (Richard McFadgen)

Justine (Alison Leonard)

Julie (Louisa Hutchinson)

Ruth (Christina Cie)

Nick (Isaac Kibblewhite)

Hook' (2015). “I’m lucky to play one of the calmer characters in 'Così', which is a nice change. It’s fun to see the chaos developing around me as Aidan Allen (playing young director Lewis) tries to keep tabs on a bunch of residents of a mental asylum while they are hell-bent on staging a version of Mozart’s 'Così Fan Tutte'.” Does the opera within the play actually make it to the stage? “Sort of...” Alison says with her trademark smirk and buttery smooth voice.

As Alison speaks with Channel Magazine at Phoenix Theatre’s rehearsal space in Forrest Hill, she stresses the importance of community in both her personal and professional life. “Theatre’s fun,” she says with a smile. “It’s not just about the people on stage but the entire team that makes it happen – the crew, the designers, the sound and lighting techs. It’s a collaborative effort, and it’s that sense of community that draws me in.”

Alison’s connection to Auckland’s North Shore is undeniable. She proudly shares that she has lived on the Shore since 1997. The area’s natural beauty – its beaches and bush walks – is a huge part of why she loves calling this place home. “I’m a self-professed nemophilist and thalassophile,” Alison laughs, playfully describing her deep love for trees and the ocean. Whether walking the Centennial Park trail or grabbing ice cream in Takapuna, Alison finds peace in the nature that surrounds her.

It’s not just the physical beauty that draws her in – Alison has a deep appreciation for the arts scene on the Shore. She recently walked around Lake Pupuke near The PumpHouse Theatre, reflecting on the importance of cultural hubs like this. “That place is part of what makes the Shore so special.”

As a seasoned broadcaster now working with RNZ National, Alison recognises the profound impact community involvement has on wellbeing. “If it’s something that tickles your fancy, give it a go,” she insists. “Theatre, pottery – whatever it is – there’s always something to try, and you might just find a new passion. Community is what keeps us connected.”

Her return to the stage in 'Così' isn’t just about acting; it’s about being part of something bigger than herself, something she encourages everyone to experience, whether as an audience member or as part of a production.

Don’t miss your chance to see Alison Leonard play feisty social worker Justine in 'Così' at The PumpHouse from 20-29 March and experience the magic of community theatre at its best. A strictly limited season, with six evening and three matinee performances available to book. Tickets from $25 at pumphouse.co.nz/cosi

An amazing show that brings so many different things; it's a comedy with laugh-outloud funny parts, but there's a darkness to it that's really exciting to explore, too.

Roy (Richard De Luca)

Zac (Paco Galvez)

Project Employ Dinner & Auction Fundraiser

Project Employ Dinner & Auction Fundraiser

Proudly sponsored by Harcourts Cooper & Co and Fonterra

Join us for a night of great food and music, live auction, and the opportunity to be part of something truly life-changing.

REGATTA BAR & EATERY, TAKAPUNA

Thursday 27 March, from 5:30pm

Join Project Employ for an inspiring evening dedicated to raising funds and awareness of our employment programme.

Hear from our graduates about the impact meaningful employment has on their lives, and from our employer partners about the value that Project Employ graduates bring to their organisations.

Tables of 8-10 for group bookings. Single tickets also available. $185 per person

Tickets include a glass of bubbles on arrival, a delicious 3-course meal, entertainment, live and silent auctions, plus a FREE raffle ticket! Tickets available now from www.projectemploy.nz

& SPECIAL

Kristin Hersh

The Throwing Muses singer songwriter returns to Aotearoa NZ and plays a solo show at The Vic!

Film Festival

cinematography documents the beauty and power, and mysteries, of the ocean

The Mischief Company brings you FIZZ

improvised comedy where Whose Line Is It

Ben, Hilton Auckland

News from The PumpHouse from James Bell

Setting the stage for March

If you love gripping dramas and offbeat comedies then you’re in luck! The PumpHouse is serving up a theatrical feast this March.

First up, Brown & Maher Productions presents 'Oleanna' by David Mamet: a tense and thoughtprovoking play that explores power dynamics. With sharp dialogue and a gripping storyline, this production challenges audiences to reconsider the nature of authority and influence. On stage for a very limited season, 10-15 March.

From 20-29 March, Phoenix Theatre brings to the stage 'Così', a heartwarming, hilarious tale about a group of outsiders attempting to stage a classic opera under difficult circumstances. Balancing comedy with deeper themes of connection and resilience, this play highlights the transformative power of theatre.

Our first Creative Talk of the year is with Xanthe Jujnovich – Place and Partner Specialist (Arts) at Auckland Council. Whether you’re an artist, an enthusiast, or just here for the free snacks (no shame), we welcome you to come along to this free event on 24 March.

Sneak peek into April: Shoreside Theatre’s One Act Play Festival featuring two absolute bangers will be taking the stage! Don't miss 'White Men' by Abby Howells and 'All I Really Need to Know I Learned By Being In A Bad Play' by Werner Trieschmann.

Adopt a seat – support The PumpHouse!

Say goodbye to the old floor-level seats! 69 brand-new, properly padded seats with better back support have arrived! You can help make them feel welcome by adopting a seat. In return for a small donation, you can pick your favourite seat, receive your own adoption certificate, and we’ll acknowledge your support at the theatre – all while supporting local arts. Donations to The PumpHouse qualify for a tax refund too – just in time for the end of the tax year. Adopt today at pumphouse.co.nz/adopt

See you at the theatre soon! Mauri ora, James Bell.

DEPOT Te Whare Toi, Devonport

Welcome to March, and with it a host of exciting events, exhibitions and creative news to share!

Depot Artspace

Opening on Saturday 22 March, 2-4pm at 28 Clarence St – Depot Artspace is proud to present SelfCare for Aliens featuring the work of Natasha Munro Hurn and Ezra Munro. The exhibition explores the artists’ identities through fantastical self-portraits made using eye shadow, lipsticks and various tools that shape the self beyond harmful social traditions.

March also sees the return of our wildly popular First Thursdays event series. Check out depot.org.nz for info on our upcoming workshops for full details!

Depot 3 Vic Road

Opening on Friday 14 March, 5-7pm at 3 Victoria Rd – Depot 3 Vic Road’s second exhibition of 2025 features local multidisciplinary artist Sarah Morrah’s works in Neural Bloom. Morrah's work pulses with the energy of transformation, thoughts turned into clay, memories layered in paint. As both artist and doctor, she navigates the intricate relationship between mind and body, where creativity becomes both an exploration and an escape.

Visitors can also browse the Depot Shop | Toi Toa collection at 3 Victoria Road, including our Maker of the Month for March: Shaw Road Ceramics.

Depot Sound

Big things are happening at Depot Sound! Since flooding severely damaged the space and our beloved gear in September last year, we’ve been rebuilding from the ground up – bigger, better, and ready to deliver. Studio manager Noah Page has been getting Studio One ready for a serious glow-up – soldering, fine-tuning, rigorously testing, and locking in the perfect setup.

The studio is fully functional while new gear keeps rolling in, and we’re almost there. Book a recording or rehearsal session on our website today!

Stay in touch by subscribing to our newsletter at depot.org.nz to keep up to date with all things DEPOT, including exhibition openings, live music performances, workshops, creative opportunities and more!

DEPOT with Amy Saunders

Self-Care for Aliens

Shaw Road Ceramics

Neural Bloom

Noah Page

Takapuna Beach Café scores the pour!

Now

licensed and serving

world-class New Zealand wine and beer

When James Bryant took the reins at Takapuna Beach Café, he thought he may like to introduce a wine list one day and realise the vision of the site’s predecessor operators, Hip Group. That was in 2019 and more than five years on, he’s pleased to share that the café is finally pouring wine and beer.

“Over the years, customers have mentioned how great it would be to celebrate a special occasion with a champagne brunch or enjoy lunch with an ice cold beer on a sunny afternoon.

“We’re so pleased to now be offering champagne, beer and wine to complement our food menu and truly maximise our beachfront location,” he says.

Takapuna Beach Café, located by the boat ramp on the north end of Takapuna Beach, has operated for more than 15 years and has a sustained longevity in hospitality that’s becoming harder to come by. For James and the team, there presented an opportunity to evolve the café into a gathering hub throughout the day and offer more than a cup of coffee.

Much like the café’s approach to food, the focus on the wine and beer list is all about quality and supporting producers who are passionate about their craft.

Much like the café’s approach to food, the focus on the wine and beer list is all about quality and supporting producers who are passionate about their craft.

The beverage menu was curated by James and the Takapuna Beach Café team, which includes seasoned hospitality professionals with backgrounds in fine dining, bars and hotels.

“We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to local beer and wine and it was difficult to whittle down the selection. When it came to

James Bryant

creating the wine list, our aim was to highlight some of New Zealand’s prominent wine-making regions. As for the craft beer selection, we’ve looked north of Auckland to Matakana and Waipu.”

Because of the café’s location, which attracts tourists as well as North Shore locals, it was important for the beverage selection to have something for everyone.

“The drinks list has been designed to delight everyone coming through our doors, whether they’re visiting from abroad, or walking down the road for a casual weekday visit,” he says.

The wine list will change with the seasons, in line with the cafe’s ever-changing seasonal food menu.

Initially, all wines will be available by the glass and bottle. A more comprehensive bottle list will be released in due course. A new range of house-made sodas, plus a range of non- and low-alcoholic drinks, has been added to the menu.

“It’s all about offering our customers more choice, whether or not they choose to imbibe,” says James.

Executive Chef Alvin Rizky has prepared a new menu for the afternoon to complement the drinks list. Expect a selection of light snacks like a whipped blue cod dip to more substantial plates, such as Wagyu steak.

“It’s exciting to introduce something completely new to Takapuna Beach Café. We’ve been able to collaborate with the bakery team at Knead on Benson to co-create a custom sourdough bread to accompany the small plates now available in the afternoons,” says Alvin.

For James, the new addition to the service is an exciting prospect

and all part of keeping the business relevant and engaging for the team and the wider community.

“Some of the team have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to specialty beer and wine and many have held their license to serve alcohol since before joining us at Takapuna Beach Café. It feels great to support their continued development and enable them to apply these skills at our venue.

“Café service remains the core of our business but it’s been awesome adding different aspects, such as Fish & Chip Shop – our summer pop-up – and now wine and beer. It’s been immensely rewarding to develop Takapuna Beach Café into a true all-day eatery, from offering coffee in the morning to beer and wine in the afternoons,” says James.

Wine and beer will be available every day, with drinks served responsibly with food from 8am and last call at 7pm (6pm during winter).

Open 7 days, 7am-8pm (including public holidays with a 15% surcharge).

Visit takapunabeachcafe.com

Shore ON THE Eating Out

Here at Channel we're proud to support our local hospo businesses in our monthly eating out guide. Try somewhere new this month.

Devonport

Akdeniz Bar Cafe Restaurant

Persian and Mediterranean cuisine.

5/15 Victoria Rd. 09 600 2125. akdenizdevonport.co.nz

Buona Sera Restaurant

Authentic Italian food. 99 Victoria Rd. 09 445 8133. buonasera.co.nz

Cafe Hung Viet

Vietnamese cuisine. 101 Victoria Rd. 09 446 3368. cafehungviet.co.nz

Calimero

Real pizza, great taste! 163 Victoria Rd. 09 445 2232. Corellis

Home-style fare. 46 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4151. corelliscafe.co.nz

Devonport Indian Hub - The Asian Eatery

The best of Indian and Asian fusion cuisine. 71 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4263. devonportindianhub.co.nz

Devon on the Wharf

Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. 1 Queen's Parade. 09 445 7012. devononthewharf.nz

Flying Rickshaw

Indian cuisine. 97 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7721. flyingrickshaw.co.nz

Manuka Cafe and Restaurant

Mediterranean inspired cuisine. 49 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7732. manukarestaurant.co.nz

Vondel

Independent owner-operated eatery in Devonport. Serving food to suit every diet, alongside craft beer, natural wine and small-batch spirits. We hold weekly specials, winemakers' dinners, as well as private and charity events. Sign up to our mailing list or follow our social channels to keep up to date.

Opening hours: Tues-Fri 4pm-late Saturday & Sunday 10am-late 09 446 6444 hello@vondel.co.nz www.vondel.co.nz instagram Instagram @vondel_akl facebook facebook.com/vondelakl

Portofino Devonport

26 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3777. portofinodevonport.co.nz

Signal Hill

Serves classic NZ fare. 24 Victoria Rd. 09 445 0193. signalhill.co.nz

Stone Oven

Iconic cafe in the heart of the village for over 20 years. 5 Clarence Street.

Taupo Indian Cuisine

The essence of Indian hospitality, flavours and culture. 161 Victoria Rd. 09 445 1546. taupoindian.co.nz

The Kestrel

1/1 Queens Parade, Devonport Wharf. 09 445 1777. thekestrel.co.nz

The Next Station Chinese Cuisine

Hong Kong and Cantonese-style Chinese cuisine for eat-in and takeaways.

41 Victoria Road. 09 200 0683

The Patriot (Pub)

14 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3010. thepatriot.co.nz

Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar

53/55 Victoria Road. 09 445 0194 vicroadkitchen.co.nz

Vondel

Vegan and omni eats. 8 Victoria Rd. 09 446 6444. vondel.co.nz

Hauraki Social Club

A new locally owned and operated bar and eatery located upstairs in the historic Corner Store building at Hauraki Corner (entrance up the dedicated alleyway at the rear).

Enjoy an excellent selection of beer, wine and other drinks alongside a range of delicious shared plates.

No membership necessary.

335 Lake Road, Hauraki Corner @haurakisocialclub on socials hello@haurakisocialclub.co.nz haurakisocialclub.co.nz

Open Wed-Fri from 3.30pm and Sat-Sun from 12pm

Belmont/Hauraki

Caffé Santini

Alessandro's back offering the best coffee on the Shore! 63c Lake Road, Belmont. 0221 872 491. espressosantini@gmail.com

Daily Bread

Freshly baked loaves and perfect pastries. 43 Eversleigh Rd, Belmont. dailybread.co.nz

Hauraki Social Club

NEW locally owned and operated bar and eatery. Level 1, 335 Lake Road, Hauraki. 09 802 2554. haurakisocialclub.co.nz

Sheppards Corner

Authentic TexMex - a slice of Texas on the North Shore. 131 Lake Road, Belmont. 09 447 4377. sheppardsnz.com

XO Takapuna

Asian skewers and street style food. 333 Lake Road, Hauraki Corner. 09 486 0003. xotakapuna.com

Smales Farm, Takapuna

Fantail & Turtle

Popular bar and eatery with alfresco vibe and great food! 09 486 0644. fantailandturtle.co.nz

Shake Out Burgers 09 489 8223. shakeout.co

Soho Thai 09 972 2711. sohothaikitchen.com

The Grange Bar & Bistro

A favourite all-day bar and bistro. 09 972 9060. thegrangetakapuna.co.nz

SMALESFARM

Fantail & Turtle

Founded on friendship with offerings that acknowledge our fierce independence and appreciation of artisans. Expect fresh and local craft beer, real ale and cider flowing from 15 taps, a wine list covering near and distant regions synonymous with varietal excellence, an extensive gin list enhanced with botanics fresh from our on-site gardens, bespoke cocktails to sip into the evening, and a modern seasonal menu designed to share, focusing on showcasing sustainable and locally sourced produce. Supreme Winner - NZ Gastropub Awards 2024 hello@fantailandturtle.co.nz fantailandturtle.co.nz instagram fantailandturtle

DEVONPORT

HAURAKI

Takapuna

Alforno Italian Restaurant

34 Anzac Street. 09 488-0179. alforno.co.nz

Aubergine Restaurant

European and Mediterranean. 129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3104. aubergine.co.nz

Botticelli Restaurant & Wine Bar

Italian eatery. 8 Anzac Street. 021 910 999. botticelli.co.nz

Burger Burger

Eat Street. 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 390 5348. burgerburger.co.nz

Catch 21 Eatery

Serving exceptional coffee, staple café offerings and fine seafood.

33 Hurstmere Rd. 09 484 0005. catch21.co.nz

Centro Café 447a Lake Rd. 09 200 2277

Dantes Pizza & Casa Pasta

Eat Street. 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 486 3668. dantes.co.nz

El Humero

Colombian-style barbecue. Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9973. elhumero.co.nz

Florrie McGreals Irish Pub

138 Hurstmere Road. 09 486 6330. florriemcgreals.co.nz

Flourish Café

Coffee with a conscience, service with a smile! Help Project Employ trainees fulfil their goal of gaining employment. 19 Como Street. 09 489 2266. projectemploy.nz

French Rendez-Vous

French bistro-creperie serving delicious traditional French favourites.

2a Maurere Ave. (next to The PumpHouse). 09 487 0009. french-rendez-vous-caferestaurant.business.site

Hanoi Haven Vietnamese cuisine.

40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 263 6393. hanoihaven.co.nz

Hong's Korean Kitchen

Shop 5, 62 Hurstmere Rd. 09 200 0217. hongskoreanrestaurant.co.nz

Hops & Claret Drinkery

136 Hurstmere Road. 09 486 6330. hopsandclaret.co.nz

Nanam

Filipino flavours. 178 Hurtsmere Rd. 09 488 9976 nanam.co.nz

Regatta Bar & Eatery

Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0040. joylab.co.nz/regatta

Rosie's Red-Hot Cantina

The best of California's vibrant coast and LA street scene. Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0016. starsocial.nz/venues/rosies-red-hot-cantina-takapuna Sakebar Nippon

Traditional Japanese (Isakaya style).

32 Anzac Street. 09 486 2249. sakebar.co.nz

Takapuna Beach Cafe

Views of the beach from a sun-drenched deck and lightfilled dining room.

22 The Promenade. takapunabeachcafe.co.nz

Taylors on Hurstmere

Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar. 168 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9510. taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz

Tok Tok Kitchen

Asian fusion cuisine. 129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3988. toktok.co.nz

Tokyo Bay

Modern Japanese cuisine. Main Beach, The Strand. 09 390 7188. tokyobay.co.nz

Wok 'n Noodle

Asian restaurant - tasty, nutritious food cooked right in front of you.

1/7 The Strand. 09 485 3259. woknnoodle.com

Birkenhead

Abruzzo Ristorante Italiano

13 Birkenhead Ave. 09 418 4202. abruzzi.co.nz

Birkenhead Brewing Company

17 Birkenhead Ave. 09 320 5055. bbc.kiwi

Blitza Pizza

9 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 5006. blitzapizza.co.nz

Burrito House

Mexican food. 17 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 2095. burritohouse.co.nz

Chef Rasa Sayang

Malaysian food. 25 Mokoia Road. 09 419 9788

DIT

Dutch Bistro. 3 Birkenhead Ave. 0274613898. ditisit.co.nz

Fika With Me

Cosy café serving funky, flavourful Findian-inspired food. 5 Birkenhead Avenue. 09 418 5508. @fikawithme

Jose's Cantina

Mexican. 12-14 Birkenhead Ave. 09 218 6162. josescantina. co.nz

Moxie Restaurant

82 Hinemoa St. 09 419 9082. moxierestaurant.co.nz

Mulan Malaysian Restaurant

243 Hinemoa St. 09 480 2806. mulan.co.nz

Primerose Thai Cuisine

6 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 0555. primerosethaicuisine.co.nz

Real Burger

30 Birkenhead Ave. 021 085 95485. realburger.site

Tasty Tiny Thai Restaurant

52d Mokoia Rd. 09 418 4999. tastytinythai.co.nz

Thai Yum Food Hut

23 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 6799. thaiyum.net.nz

The Curry Master

18 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 7211. thecurrymaster.co.nz/birkenhead

TAKAPUNA

Flourish Café

Flourish Café provides training and work experience for young adults with learning differences. When you order your favourite coffee and choose from our delicious, fresh cabinet food, you will always be served with a smile. Support our trainees by coming into Flourish Café. Catering available.

19 Como Street, BDO Towers, Takapuna 7am–3pm, Monday – Friday 09 489 2266

instagram flourish.takapuna /projectemploynz

facebook Flourish Café /Project Employ projectemploy.nz

Centro

TAKAPUNA

Catch 21 Eatery

Welcome to our 'home away from home' cosy haven, where smiles abound with friendly service, exceptional coffee and delectable cuisine. Each customer becomes part of our extended family, savouring not only the taste of our offerings but also the heartfelt care that accompanies every visit. Step into our café and let us wrap you in a comforting embrace of hospitality and flavours that delight the senses.

Mon-Sun, 7am-3pm. No surcharge on public holidays

447a Lake Road, Takapuna 09 200 2277 centroauckland@gmail.com facebook @centrotakapuna instagram @centrotakapuna

Takapuna’s latest eatery has just dropped anchor with plenty of sunny outdoor seating overlooking Hurstmere Green. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and coffee for dining in or taking away, the friendly 'crew' are all hands-on-deck to serve exceptional coffee, delicious staple café offerings and a number of seafood options, as well as a beautiful range of freshly made cabinet food. Top picks include their signature open lobster burger, seafood chowder, and tasty eggs benedict. Catch 21 is fully licensed and provides a range of beer, bubbles and wine.

Open Tues-Sun, weekdays 7.30am-3pm, weekends 8am-3pm.

Shop 8/33 Hurstmere Road 09 484 0005 catch21.co.nz/menu

TAKAPUNA

The Good Home

83 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 0066. thegoodhomebirkenhead.co.nz

Milford

Anokha Indian Restaurant

140 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 1499. anokha.co.nz

Cave À Vin

146 Kitchener Rd. caveavin.co.nz

Khu Khu Eatery

100% vegan and Thai-inspired restaurant.

91 Kitchener Road. 09 600 3327. khukhu.co.nz

La Mexicana

13 Shakespeare Rd. 09 282 0392. lamexicana.co.nz

Monthien Thai Restaurant

142 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0409. monthien.co.nz

Musashi Japanese Cuisine Milford

212 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 5977. musashirestaurant.co.nz

PYM's of Milford

Popular neighbourhood Milford village bar & eatery. 154 Kitchener Rd. pymsofmilford.com

Stanley Avenue

52 East Coast Rd. 09 410 0066. stanleyavenue.co.nz

Talay Thai Restaurant

83-85 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 9568 talaythai.co.nz

The Hub Milford Bar & Grill

145 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 4480. thehubmilford.nz

Tokki

Modern Korean restaurant. 87 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0888 tokki.co.nz

The Milford Cafe, Bar & Restaurant 7 Milford Road. 09 488 9388. themilford.co.nz

Northcote Point

The Engine Room

115 Queen Street. 09 480 9502. engineroom.net.nz

Clarence Rd Eatery

124 Queen Street. 09 480 9600. clarencerdeatery.nz

Northcote Tavern

One of the best places for pub food on the Shore! 37 Queen Street. 09 480 7707. northcotetavern.co.nz

East Coast Bays

21 Days Bar & Brasserie

37 Clyde Rd, Browns Bay. 0800 21 3297. 21days.co.nz

El Greco Greek and Italian Eatery

1 The Esplanade, Campbells Bay. 09 475 5772. elgreco.co.nz

Montrose Cafe, Bistro & Bar

1 Montrose Terrace, Mairangi Bay. 09 478 9610. montrose.org.nz

Paper Moon

437 Beach Rd, Mairangi Bay. 09 479 8872. papermoon.org.nz

Ristorante La Spiaggia Italian. 470 Beach Rd, Murrays Bay. 09 475 5643. laspiaggia.co.nz

Wairau Valley

San Marco Trattoria & Bar

231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley. 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz

Hops & Claret Drinkery

A premium bar with amazing tapas and cocktails. Cool and groovy with a distinctive underground vibe, Hops & Claret provides a refreshing retreat in summer and a cozy getaway in winter. Based on over 60 reviews received, Hops & Claret proudly scores 5 stars for food and 5 stars for service. Perfect for small functions or social occasions, catering for up to 40 people. Opens 3pm Wednesday-Saturday.

136 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6330 hello@hopsandclaret.co.nz hopsandclaret.co.nz facebook @HopsandClaret

Kim McIntosh: kim@channelmag.co.nz 021 419 468 Liz Cannon: liz@channelmag.co.nz 021 204 3395

Taylors on Hurstmere

Yellow Hour

Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar and everyone's favourite local just around the corner from the Bruce Mason Theatre. Perfect for private parties, no venue hire!

Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV $85 per bottle between 5-7pm daily

Yellow Hour! Bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne only $85 from 5pm to 7pm every night!

Winner Lewisham Awards, Outstanding Local Establishment, Auckland North

168 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz 09 489 9510

Licenced Eatery

TAKAPUNA

TAKAPUNA

Tok Tok

Tokyo Bay

French Rendez-Vous

Hanoi Haven

Discover the Tok Tok experience in Takapuna. Unwind, indulge and savour the vibrant flavours of modern Asian fusion at Tok Tok Takapuna. From fresh, bold dishes to creative cocktails, every bite is a celebration, with vegetarian, vegan and GF options available. Perfect for date nights, group gatherings and those unforgettable moments. Book your table today and taste the extraordinary!

Tokyo Bay is situated seaside, Takapuna Beach. You can dine and watch the cruise liners sail out after a day in Auckland. Open seven days a week with a casual lunch menu featuring light bites to a range of bento box-styled selections. Then from 5pm a more extensive evening menu is available, featuring modern Japanese cuisine. Bookings essential.

The Travellers’ Choice Awards 'Best of the Best Restaurants for 2024' have been announced, with Tokyo Bay Takapuna in the top ten for the fourth year running.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday (no bookings needed) with traditional and authentic French flavours like beef bourguignon, gluten-free galettes and sweet crêpes.

Located in the heart of Takapuna with a Lake Pupuke view, we are fully licensed with different ranges of French wines.

2a Manurere Avenue

Discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of Takapuna, where the vibrant flavours of Vietnam intertwine with contemporary elegance. At Hanoi Haven, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Vietnamese cuisine while embracing a modern twist. With years of experience in renowned kitchens across Vietnam, our chef brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Hanoi Haven, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.

Tripadvisor's 'Best of the Best' 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.

1/129 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna. 09 489 3988, toktokkitchen@gmail.com, toktok.co.nz facebook toktakapuna

tokyobay.co.nz facebook tokyobaytakapuna

Opening hours: Mon 5pm-late, Tues-Sun 12pm-late

Nanam

Modern Asian cuisine takes you on a journey through the vibrant flavours of the Philippines, blending traditional recipes with innovative techniques. Our award-winning menu features Asian- and Spanish-inspired tapas, signature dishes, carefully curated wines and cocktails, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Recognised in Metro Top 50 and NZ’s 100 Best Restaurants by Cuisine, Nanam is proud to be a neighbourhood favourite. Don’t miss our summer lunch special for just $35!

178 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 488 9976, nanam.co.nz nanam.reservation@gmail.com

Lunch: Wed–Sat, 11:30am-2:30pm

Dinner: Tues–Sat, 5pm-10pm Closed Sun/Mon

Next to The PumpHouse, Takapuna frenchrendezvous.booking@gmail 09 487 0009 facebook: FrenchRendezvousTakapuna instagram: frenchrendezvoustakapuna

TAKAPUNA

40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 263 6393 hello@hanoihaven.co.nz hanoihaven.co.nz

Open 7 days, 11am to late.

Cousin Scott's

Welcome to Cousin Scott's Family Restaurant and American Sports Bar in Takapuna — your local honky-tonk hangout! Enjoy mouthwatering American eats with a southern twist, like Nashville hot chicken and our famous well-hung snag. Choose from six heat levels, if you dare! With 20 TVs for live sports, pool tables, and arcade games, it’s the perfect spot to kick back with icecold brew. Here, everyone’s family!

A/486 Lake Road, Takapuna 09 485 3822

Open Mon-Thu 11:30am-12am, Fri-Sat 11:30am-1am, Sun 10am-10pm cousinscotts.co.nz

Takapuna Beach Cafe

This all-day dining destination is perched right on the water’s edge with views from a sun-drenched deck.

Open seven days a week, including public holidays with a 15% surcharge, it offers vibrant seasonal flavours and awardwinning gelato made fresh daily.

Fish & chip takeaways are available during the summer months.

22 The Promenade, Takapuna info@takapunabeachcafe.co.nz takapunabeachcafe.co.nz @takapunabeachcafe

TAKAPUNA

TAKAPUNA

WAIRAUVALLEY

San Marco Trattoria & Bar

Delivering a slice of Italian hospitality on a journey that starts from our heart to your table. This is a place that revisits the traditions of Italian hospitality, where food is made in a homemade style accompanied by loving memories of cooking and bonding over food. The team brings to the table combined hospitality skills, as well as secret family recipes passed down from one generation to the other. Eat, drink, feel good – benvenuti!

Wed-Fri 11am-Late; Sat-Sun 10am-Late. Happy hour 3-7pm.

Dinner service starts at 5pm 231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz facebook instagram @sanmarcoauckland

BROWNSBAY

21 Days Bar & Brasserie

Tantalise your taste buds with the best steak experience at this beautiful venue in Browns Bay. Explore the impressive selection of cuts sourced from New Zealand, Australia and Japan, where great pride is taken in using the highest quality ingredients, matched with a carefully curated wine and beverage list. The friendly team provides top-notch catering services, taking care of your special events, cocktail parties, corporate events, conferences, birthdays, anniversaries and Christmas functions.

37 Clyde Road, Browns Bay 0800 213 297 21days.co.nz

Ristorante La Spiaggia

A popular and long-established family favourite restaurant facing Murray’s Bay Beach, serving authentic and delicious Italian and European dishes. The extensive dinner and dessert menu is available for dine-in. On offer for dine-in guests is a wide range of delicious wines and beers to accompany your meal. Buon appetito!

Opens from 5pm, Tuesday to Sunday 470 Beach Road, Murrays Bay 09 475 5643

info@laspiaggia.co.nz laspiaggia.co.nz

Opens from 5pm Tuesday to Sunday

Summer 2024 special

Comprehensive General Dentistry

Invisalign clear plastic aligners

Digital Dentistry ( 3 Shape Trios & CBCT scanning)

Teeth Whitening

Cone Bean CT guided surgical implant placement

Dentures

Cosmetic Dentistry

Emergency Dental Care

Free WINZ quotes

Free Teen dentistry (13-18 year olds)

Waygu short rib And market fish

#Gramworthy

Our round-up of posts from local spas on IG that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Susan from @skinsense_nz

Susan Nicholls owns SkinSense in Devonport; her passion is finding and understanding the best new therapies for her clients. While she personally isn’t a huge social media person, she employs a marketer to manage her social media for her as she recognises the importance of it for her business. Susan purchased SkinSense Beauty Therapy in 1991 with her husband and employed her first staff member after working solo for the first six months. In the early 2000s, Susan doubled the size of the salon by gaining the space next door where she added four extra treatment rooms employing more staff and growing the business into what it is today.

Channel Mag: Tell readers a little bit about SkinSense and how it came about…

Susan Nicholls: The original story stems back to when I was about 14 years of age and decided that I wanted to become a beauty therapist. Once qualified, I worked in the industry for a couple of years and was an active committee member of the New Zealand Beauty Therapy Association. I dreamed of owning my own business so when the opportunity arose to purchase SkinSense in 1991 I decided to challenge myself to see if I could do it! More than 33 years later, I still love our industry and all the clients I look after.

Is Instagram a source of inspiration for you?

Social media hasn’t really been a huge source of inspiration for me personally although I understand the importance of it so have a wonderful marketing person who looks after this for me. I do belong to several beauty therapy social media groups here in New Zealand and overseas where we share relevant information. My inspiration comes from attending post graduate courses, keeping up with the latest technology for treatments and reading scientific information from reliable sources that explain what and how an ingredient works within a product. This is what inspires me to gain the best results possible for our clients.

What’s happening at SkinSense that you want locals to know about?

Although we cater to all aspects of beauty therapy, we have a strong passion for non-surgical anti-ageing facials and facial treatments. Our current promotion is our Advanced Anti-Ageing package which includes the Rezenerate facial to repair and regenerate, micro-current sculpting to lift and tone, and LED to stimulate collagen. It’s a powerful combination of treatments rolled into one facial for outstanding anti-ageing results. We might have to keep this one permanently on our menu!

skinsense.co.nz

Phone: 09 445 7077

Address: 53B Victoria Road, Devonport

Offering a range of fitness classes from barre and Pilates to boxing and TRX, there’s something for everyone at the Devonport studio. We like the look of slow-flow yoga. @soulspritefitness

Float and Infrared are more popular than ever and we can’t to try O-Studio in Takapuna. @Ostudio_takapuna

Ikoi looks like the perfect spot for deep relaxation and bliss; book this Takapuna spa now. @ikoi_dayspa

Susan Nicholls

Takapuna trending – new eateries by the beach

Summer is the season of pōhutukawa and beaches. It is the season of good food, craft beer and cold wine beneath a seemingly eternal sun, with sand beneath our feet and thoughts of many more days of delight. We’ve had a flurry of new North Shore restaurants to try this summer. Here are the new spots to check out on the Takapuna dining scene:

El Origen

- Chilean street food

Keep an eye out for live events, live music and an enlivening dance floor. Once you walk in, it feels like you’ve been transported to Chile. What is this magic? El Origen has authentic flavours, homemade bread and fresh empanadas.

Try this dish: Mechada pastelera, tender, slow-cooked beef and creamy corn purée. Where: 99 Hurstmere Road

Cousin Scott's

– spice, sport, chicken and wings

Hot sauce, wings and sports on TVs - what more could you ask for? Pool tables, foosball, air hockey? Check, check, check. Cousin Scott's could just be the ultimate family restaurant and American sports bar experience.

Try this dish: Fight Club – six chicken tenders with six different intensities of hot sauce. Where: 486a Lake Road

Freaky Burgers

– ready to get freaky?

Freaky Burgers has saucy burgers, tacos and nachos, as well as fresh herbs and cheesy quesadillas. A mural feels alive on the wall, almost like it wants to taste all the freaky food. Try this dish: Birria tacos – braised beef with cheese, onions, coriander and lemon on the side.

Where: 6 Hurstmere Road

PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

Benny's American Burger – burgers, beer and shakes

Moo Moo Smokehouse and Grill – barbecue at its best

A good burger is made better with a milkshake on the side. Especially when it’s an Oreo shake. Or a chocolate shake. Or a caramel shake. Okay, any shake is good. But the meal can be made perfect with an extra side of poutine over fries.

Try this dish: Beef brisket burger with eight hours slow-cooked pulled brisket. Where: 100 Hurstmere Road

Moo Moo is now open! There is an art to the barbecue. One does not simply become a pit master but must put in the time with oak, pōhutukawa, mānuka and kānuka woods –all to infuse smoke and flavour into food. Try this dish: The Big Bird is a favourite at Moo Moo’s Ormiston restaurant, and we’re hoping it will be in Takapuna too! Slowsmoked and reverse-seared ostrich back fillet with a special house rub.

Where: 1 The Strand

Check out every single amazing place to eat and drink in Takapuna (because believe it or not, there are plenty more!) in our directory at ilovetakapuna.co.nz

SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of

El Origen

Moo Moo

Bennys American Burger

Freaky Burgers

Cousin Scott's

Roll on the long summer evenings in Takapuna

At this time of year, the North Shore feels a little special. Long, languid afternoons that turn into beautiful warm nights, time for yourself, your friends, and your family. It’s the perfect time for post-work treats and a little fun before calling it a night. We get that sweet, long summer from December to April, so let’s make the most of it!

Treat

yourself

to a Duck Island ice cream

Ice cream and summer evening walks on the beach – try to name a better combo. Duck Island Takapuna delivers in spades (scoops?), with top-notch cones, old-school ice cream sandwiches and milkshakes. Going gluten-free? Ditched the dairy? Duck Island has you covered with deliciously clever vegan and allergy-friendly options.

Picnic, fun and games at the Takapuna Beach Reserve

Get the kids out of the house and hit the epic playground at Takapuna Beach Reserve once the heat of the day has passed. It’s always been great, but if you haven’t been here in the last few months you’ll need to check out the new additions like the wheelchair-accessible swing, bouncy car and seesaw. Very cool. And maybe if the kids are good, round off the evening with a cheeky fish ‘n’ chips on the beach.

Refresh yourself with Rosie’s famous slushy Margs

What sounds better than a summer afternoon by the beach with a frozen drink in hand? Not much… so head into Rosie’s Red-Hot Cantina on The Strand to enjoy your frozen Margs. Why not make it a Rosie’s Margarita Monday (with slushy deals from 5pm), or visit any day of the week for their 'Tappy Hour' deals from 4pm?

Kick it with the fam at Cousin Scott’s

Refresh yourself with a drink, nibbles, some live sport on the big screen, or some old-school arcade games, pool and foosball at Cousin Scott’s. Chat the night away and watch as the afternoon heat gives way to a delightful balmy evening.

Try something a little nouveau at Frenchy’s Crêpes

Get more than just crêpes with a true experience française right here in Takapuna. French ingredients and French-speaking staff make Frenchy’s more than a little unique. If you’re feeling brave, try ordering in French (don’t worry, they’re very kind).

DIY the perfect dessert at KiwiYo

Are you a serial over-loader, or a tactful taste-maker? Making your own KiwiYo dessert is the perfect indulgence for a long summer evening. Start with a base of yoghurt, then carefully (or carelessly, we’re not the boss of you) add the fruits, lollies, sauces and sprinkles of your choice.

Catch a film at the Takapuna Beachside Cinemas

Yeah, sometimes the heat is all a bit too much. A nice, dark, cool cinema is the perfect escape. With a broad mix of blockbuster hits and indie darlings, Takapuna Beachside Cinemas is the place to be. And when you bowl out into a lovely warm evening, you might just feel like a little drink…

Cool off with cocktails in Hurstmere Road

In our books, summertime is mojito time. But you might be more of a piña colada person, or perhaps an old-fashioned rum in the sea breeze is just what you need. We recommend starting at The Strand and wandering Hurstmere Road to pick out the vibe that suits you. Order your cocktail of choice at perennial fave Regatta Bar & Eatery and soak up the lovely ocean views. Hops & Claret does a coconut margarita that will have you feeling positively tropical. Feeling more like a Sauv? Taylors on Hurstmere has an impressive selection to satisfy any wine aficionado, and Takapuna Bar is rocking a classic range of Kiwi wines and beers.

PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Platinum sponsors…

BIRKENHEAD

UNPARALLELED OPULENCE – A LUXURIOUS SANCTUARY WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS

Elevated above the sparkling harbour, this magnificent Birkenhead Point residence is a masterpiece of luxury, sophistication, and enduring quality. Crafted from American composite stone and weatherboard with double glazing, it is built to last - a timeless home designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

From the moment you step inside, the sense of grandeur and refinement is undeniable. Soaring ceilings, designer fixtures, and bespoke details create an atmosphere of sheer indulgence.

By Kirsten Taylor, Naturopathic Sleep Specialist, Managing Director, Founder

What are the big lifestyle factors that impact my sleep and what can I do about them?

We are our own worst enemies. We don’t tend to look after ourselves properly and yet we expect our bodies to perform. Most of us pay our houses or cars greater attention. As we get old our lifestyle and choices start to impact even more on our sleep. Let's look at the whys and then a possible easy solution.

The usual suspects in no particular order are:

Drinking alcohol. Helps us go to sleep faster but depletes crucial nutrients and interferes with sleep architecture denying us deep sleep. Because we don’t get deep sleep our heart does not rest and recover. Elevated heart rate and lower heart rate variability is demonstrated in nearly all cases.

Smoking. Nicotine from vapes, cigarettes or patches stimulates the nervous system and delays sleep onset. Toxins add load to an already hard-working liver which then has to work harder to utilise, process and clear from the body hormones including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and melatonin.

Being overweight. Increased weight impacts blood sugar glucose, increased inflammatory markers, liver load (again) and the ability for your diaphragm to rise and fall, leading to snoring and or sleep apnoea. This is a vicious loop which can lead to diabetes and heart disease.

Over-eating rich food too late at night. The feelings of being uncomfortable and/or acid reflux disturbing our sleep all night are most definitely felt in the morning when we awake unrested, sluggish and bloated.

Not exercising enough. To achieve good sleep we need to build up our sleepiness during the day. This is mainly due to build-up of adenosine, which gets greater throughout the day. We do need to be tired. Exercise also keeps things moving smoothly and helps clear hormones through our bowels.

Stress. This mighty problem maker increases our cortisol, the hormone that wakes us up in the morning in response to daylight. It can also increase due to mental and emotional stress, tax our adrenal glands which may be overproducing adrenalin, and decrease our immune system. If we produce cortisol at night time it will spike and interfere with melatonin causing us to wake bolt upright and be wide awake when we should be sleeping.

How many of these are you experiencing?

A robust strategy includes making lifestyle changes now, especially before winter comes, as we are significantly more likely to get sick if we are not sleeping well due to any or all of the above.

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A scientific approach to supplement development is crucial to delivering outcomes for our customers. At SleepDrops we don’t just aim for mediocrity; we aim to impress. Here’s some more understanding of recommended daily intakes such as vitamin C 50mg to avoid scurvy versus therapeutic levels, which can optimise your wellbeing.

Ingredient Amount in Healthy Sleep per dose.

Recommended Daily Intake, Australia & NZ governments

Documented therapeutic dosages (practitioner level)

Tart Cherry 4.5g equiv. to fresh fruit Not specified Research supports the dosage

Zinc 10.8mg 6.5mg for adult females 12mg for adult males 10-50mg daily

for

The professional team at SleepDrops are here to offer you reliable advice, solutions and expert sleep support supplements to help you get the best sleep possible. Life or your choices may be getting in the way but we don’t judge, we are here to help. Please reach out to support@sleepdrops.co.nz

For more information on all our expert sleep and stress support products please visit us at www.SleepDrops.co.nz or give us a call and talk to us directly at 0800 345 999.

The Art of Giving is coming to Devonport this month with our good friends at Bayleys Devonport holding a three day charity art exhibition from the 19th-21st March in their wonderful waterfront office on King Edward Parade. We spoke to Sue Stanaway from Bayleys to find out what inspires this event that will ultimately benefit Cure Kids.

Charity art exhibition to be hosted by Bayleys

CMAG: Why art, and what is the concept behind the Art of Giving?

Sue Stanaway: We are so fortunate to have our office in such a beautiful spot in King Edward Parade, so when looking to support Cure Kids and our local community, art seemed an obvious choice especially as our office was previously an art gallery and lends itself to this event. We wanted to bring artists together to show their latest works and at the same time give them the opportunity to give something to Cure Kids. We have been overwhelmed by the wonderful response we have had and the amazing works that will be in the exhibition.

What type of artwork will be in the exhibition?

We have 20 artists, potters and sculptors who are submitting their work to be displayed for sale over the three days, from Wednesday through to Friday from 10am to 4pm daily. Pieces are from renowned and accomplished artists and emerging talents and there will also be preloved or pre-acquired art. Every sale will help support the amazing work that Cure Kids do.

Who are some of your better known artists and what type of works will be displayed?

We have a wonderful selection of art from some very accomplished artists and so it is very hard to single anyone out, especially when there will be works for sale that have never been exhibited before. We will have pieces exhibited from New Zealand acclaimed Weston Frizzell; this is the collaborative entity of Otis Frizzell and Mike Weston. They have a special work that will be part of an auction, specifically designed for Cure Kids. This is a new piece in the Weston Frizzel collection and we’re sure it will be highly sought after. As a highlight we have Laken Whitcliffe presenting works and offering a custompainted mural as part of our charity auction.

We will also have pieces by local artists, including Rob Tucker who was a winner of North Harbour Club AIMES Art Award in 2012. The North Harbour Club is a wonderful organisation that I am passionate about and Bayleys has been supporting for three decades. Rob Tucker has gone on to make a strong career with his distinctive style of art. We will also have 10 pieces from Takapuna Grammar students, ensuring there will be some fantastic emerging talent on display.

What made Cure Kids your charity of choice to benefit from this event?

Bayleys, both locally and nationally, are very big on citizenship and giving back to the communities we live and work in. Cure Kids is one of Bayleys' national charity partners who do big research for little lives. funding researchers to find out what causes the diseases and health conditions that affect Kiwi kids, so that new ways to prevent, treat and cure diseases can be discovered.

We see you have a preloved section of the exhibition, so what will that be displaying and how will you determine the value of pre acquired art?

We have many clients, family and friends, who

when shifting house find they have art that is surplus to requirements. So we are suggesting and encouraging the donation of any art they no longer need to the exhibition. 100% of the proceeds will go to Cure Kids. This art will not be priced but will be sold over the three days, online in a silent auction to the highest bidders.

We invite anyone who has art they wish to contribute to contact us.

Have you found support for the event has been strong?

Yes, we have found wonderful enthusiasm for this initiative from the artists, the sponsors and supporters. We are excited to have this as what we hope will be the first event of many. Our event partners NZME with One Roof and Vega Mortgages have been amazing, and Te Motu wines has put up a fantastic auction item. The team at Benefitz (publishers of Channel Mag) has got on board to support us with our promotion of the event.

We are looking forward to a great exhibition and encourage anyone who is interested in art to come down to Devonport and visit the exhibition, enjoy the art and support Cure Kids.

For more information email: Sue.Stanaway@bayleys.co.nz or visit: bayleys.co.nz

Sue Stanaway at the Bayleys Devonport office.

THE EXHIBITION

OF GIVING

19th - 21st March, 10am - 4pm | 33 King Edward Parade

Bayleys Devonport are proud to present The Art of Giving, showcasing a curated selection of over 50 artworks by renowned artists offered for sale.

Proceeds for the event will directly benefit Cure Kids.

As part of the exhibition, we will be featuring a silent auction of pre-loved art with all proceeds going to the charity.

We invite you to visit the exhibition in the Bayleys Devonport office and view the variety of special pieces in this collection.

We are truly excited about this opportunity to make a difference through art.

Proudly supported by In support of

By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna

Pack & Send Takapuna

celebrate 11 years

Pack & Send Takapuna has served Takapuna and the wider Auckland community for 11 years. Jeremy and Jane's knowledge of the local market, experience and ability to provide a custom service has been unparalleled. They are very thankful for the support of their customers who trust them to package and send their items – no matter how fragile, awkward or valuable.

Pack & Send is a very popular franchise that can send any item –no matter how fragile, large, awkward or valuable — anywhere in the world. Its powerful promise is: “Anything, Anywhere – No Limits”.

Pack & Send Takapuna is the current Franchisee of the Year and top performing franchise in the Pack & Send group nationwide. Jane and Jeremy have been recognised as the best operators in New Zealand achieving a high level of success.

The team is well qualified to offer a highly professional custompackaging service which includes handling fragile, large, awkward and valuable items. Cover for loss or damage of any consignment can be arranged.

The Takapuna service centre is a one stop shop for everything packaging and freight. Private and business customers are taking to the Pack & Send concept in droves, from Trade Me buyers and sellers, tourists and backpackers, university students on the move, people moving overseas, small businesses and large corporations.

Pack & Send covers national and international freight, and road, sea and air options. They make it hassle-free by offering pickup, packing services and completing all the paperwork for delivery. They can even track to the door and advise of its safe arrival.

“It’s the sheer convenience of being able to bring absolutely anything you like into us and know it will be delivered safe and sound to any address in the world, and quickly,” says Jeremy.

Pack & Send Takapuna stocks a large range of durable boxes and quality packing materials for DIY packing. They can even custommake boxes and packaging for your specific needs. The personal service, professional packaging, world class systems and expertise that Pack & Send Takapuna provides are designed to make your freight experience as simple and smooth as possible. You don’t even need to open an account, and they’ll send anything, anywhere plus take care of the hassles.

Pack & Send Takapuna open Mon – Sat, located at 77 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna with exclusive and convenient parking outside. Ph 486 3355 or email takapuna@packsend.co.nz and let them make sending easy.

By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd

What the OCR cut means for the housing market on Auckland's North Shore

The recent reduction in New Zealand's Official Cash Rate (OCR) is set to have a significant impact on the Auckland North Shore property market. As interest rates ease, borrowing becomes more affordable, which is likely to stimulate buyer demand and increase market activity.

For first-home buyers and those looking to upgrade, lower mortgage rates mean improved affordability and greater confidence to enter the market. This could lead to increased competition, particularly in desirable North Shore suburbs where demand has remained strong despite previous high interest rates.

Sellers may also benefit from a more active market; with more buyers able to secure financing, properties could sell faster and at more competitive prices. This shift may encourage more homeowners to list their properties, increasing supply and providing buyers with greater choice.

…while a lower OCR is positive for market activity, buyers should remain mindful of broader economic conditions.

Investors, who may have been hesitant due to high borrowing costs, could start re-entering the market, particularly in areas with strong rental demand. Lower interest rates improve rental yields, making property investment more attractive once again.

However, while a lower OCR is positive for market activity, buyers should remain mindful of broader economic conditions. Inflation, employment rates, and future OCR movements will continue to influence long-term property trends.

Overall, the North Shore market is likely to see renewed momentum following the OCR reduction. Those considering buying or selling should stay informed and seek professional advice to make the most of the opportunities presented by the shifting financial landscape.

Yan Davies, a long-time North Shore local, has amassed a wide network of quality clients and superior knowledge of the area. She is an active Milford Cruising Club member. She works hard for her clients, driven by a sense of duty to provide a high level of service. She holds a Master's Degree in business and administration and speaks English and Chinese fluently.

Yan Davies 燕 021 585 590 yan.davies@bayleys.co.nz Licensed under the REA Act 2008 唯一华人中介@ Bayleys Takapuna

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Inspired by lush, plant-filled conservatories, discover the beauty of Botanic Wonder bed linen. Crafted from organic cotton sateen, style a luxurious retreat with the painterly botanical design in restful garden hues. Visit our Takapuna location at 156 Hurstmere Road to see and shop our collections in person.

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Wrap up in possum Merino this autumn!

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DEPOT SHOP | TOI TOA

Shaw Road Ceramics is nestled amongst the peaceful apple orchards of Oratia, West Auckland. Ceramicist and sculptor Melissa Hastings creates functional stoneware pieces often portrayed in soft tones with a nod to the modernist era. This can be seen even more emphatically in her architectural series of sculptural vessels.

3 Victoria Road, Devonport toitoa@depot.org.nz depot.org.nz

10am-4pm, Tues-Sun

156 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 551 7767 wallacecotton.com

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A firm Cosi favourite, Bordallo Pinheiro is a stunning Portuguese heritage brand dating back to 1884. The Flora collection brings together a herbarium of plants and flowers celebrating nature in all its vivacity.

73 Victoria Road, Devonport, 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz instagram @cosifantutte_devonport

AUCTION: 12:00 p.m. Sunday 30 March 2025, On-Site (unless sold prior)

Located at the end of a secure private driveway, this exquisite single-level estate offers an unparalleled blend of elegance, tranquillity, and breathtaking natural surroundings - all just minutes from the vibrant Matakana Village. Spanning over 14 hectares (more or less) of lush, rolling countryside, this remarkable property is a true retreat from the fast pace of modern life.

Fundraiser Event

New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty North is proud to sponsor this special womenonly event on Tuesday 25 March 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at The Milford Cruising Club. This event will bring together a community of support for two incredible charities, Woven Earth and Littlemore. These organisations are making a profound difference in the lives of families across Tamaki Makaurau, helping those facing the most challenging circumstances to rebuild their lives with dignity, warmth, and stability.

For families escaping family violence, the road to recovery is often fraught with uncertainty. Securing a safe place to live is only the first step—many survivors find themselves in empty homes, lacking even the most basic essentials to start anew. Woven Earth bridges this gap by transforming empty houses into fully furnished homes, creating spaces filled with care, comfort, and the reassurance that a fresh start is possible. By working with over 55 frontline agencies, they ensure each home is tailored to the unique needs of its new occupants, particularly children, who often bear the deepest scars of upheaval. Beyond providing furniture and household essentials, Woven Earth’s Children’s Fund helps restore a sense of normality, offering school supplies, sports equipment, and cherished toys—small but meaningful contributions that provide a sense of belonging and security. Since their first home in 2019, Woven Earth has furnished an average of four homes every week, each one representing a new beginning.

Similarly, Littlemore exists to ease the burden on families welcoming a newborn while facing financial hardship. What began as one mother’s effort to ensure no baby left hospital without warm clothing has grown into a lifeline for countless whanau. By collecting and redistributing pre-loved baby essentials, Littlemore ensures that parents facing social and financial struggles have the necessities to care for their little ones. From car seats and bassinets to nappies, blankets, and clothing up to 12 months, the generosity of donors enables families to focus on what truly matters—

nurturing their child in a safe and loving environment. Working alongside midwives and community services, Littlemore has reached thousands of families, offering not just material support, but the reassurance that they are not alone.

Those attending the event will have the opportunity to learn more about the incredible impact of these organisations and how they can help. We are also calling out to our incredible community to help make a difference by giving some essential items to donate. To make giving even easier, essential items can be dropped off at our New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Takapuna office at 159 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. We will bring these donations to the event, ensuring they reach the families who need them most. Items such as nappies, maternity and breast pads, baby wipes, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, moisturiser, skincare, and toiletry bags are especially appreciated.

New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty North, recognises the immense value in supporting organisations that create lasting change. By coming together, we can help break cycles of hardship and provide families with the resources and support they need to move forward with hope and dignity.

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Heritage and history at Signal Hill...

A popular modern bar and eatery, serving classic New Zealand fare in Devonport's most iconic homestead.

Signal Hill’s name is a nod to the building’s historic roots. The home was originally built around 1846 by William Oliver, one of the earliest settlers on the North Shore and the first person laid to rest at Signal Hill – the landmark we know now as Mt Victoria/Takarunga.

Then named Flagstaff, the township was to transform from an isolated ‘island’ into a heaving commercial centre and busy naval base. At the heart of it all, standing through decades of change, war campaigns and commercial development, was 24 Victoria Road – now Devonport's iconic Signal Hill Bar and Eatery. As the oldest existing house in Devonport, 24 Victoria Road boasts more than a century's worth of intrigue. If the walls could talk, they’d tell tales of pioneers, politics and even scandal!

In preserving a piece of history, the team at Signal Hill has created a new future for one of Devonport’s most loved landmarks, bringing this building back to life to serve as a modern bar and restaurant in the heart of the Devonport township. Today, Signal Hill is a space where locals and visitors can connect, enjoy great food and share their own tales over a glass with family and friends.

The result is a family-friendly bar and restaurant that suits the laid-back, outdoor-living lifestyle of the Devonport community and beyond while also serving as a drawcard for city dwellers across

the harbour. You can sit down for a meal inside the formal dining room or on the deck in the sunshine, or choose something lighter from the snack menu to quell your appetite. There is a private room called William Oliver, which can be hired for free and seats eight comfortably. Great for community groups, private meetings or just a family get-together for any occasion.

Signal Hill has a wide range of fine wines, spirits and cocktails. Our coffee brand is Chiasso, a local roaster we support. Food is sourced locally and fresh, which has been and continues to be the key to Signal Hill's future. Check out the menu via the QR code below.

Please book via email at info@signalhill.co.nz or ring 09 445 0193. We would love to see you!

Signal Hill, 24 Victoria Road, Devonport 09 445 0193

info@signalhill.co.nz signalhill.co.nz

facebook: @signalhilldevonport instagram: @signalhilldevonport

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*Vehicles are advertised for sale by Mercedes-Benz North Shore acting on behalf of Mercedes-Benz New Zealand Limited (MBNZ) and the information published in association with that vehicle is made by the Mercedes-Benz North Shore and not MBNZ. Offers available as advertised on select demonstrators, sold before 31st March 2025 and delivered before 30th April 2025, unless extended or while stock lasts. Offer excludes build-to-order, pre-owned vehicles, leasing products, fleet, government and rental buyers. Where a specific discount has been advertised, the value amount is inclusive of GST and is only applied to specific vehicles while stock of that vehicle lasts. Discounts cannot be transferred to a different model that is not included in the EOFY campaign. Vehicles advertised are available for sale at the time of publication.

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FOCUS ON BARRYS POINT

Suna-versary: Suna Pilates at 25

Providing Pilates innovation for quarter of a century

On Friday 7 March, Suna Pilates + Wellbeing will celebrate its 25th anniversary, or 'Suna-versary' as we like to call it. In these days of fad exercises and studios opening and closing regularly, it is quite an achievement to have been around that long and still be thriving. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of Pilates and, particularly, to the Suna method and the quality and caring nature of Suna’s trainers.

In the year 2000 when she was just 24 years old, Susie Cleland opened one of the first Pilates studios in New Zealand, and named it Suna Pilates. (There is some debate as to whether Suna was the first or second studio to open in New Zealand.) At that time, Pilates was not widely known – Susie discovered it while trying to heal her own back issues. She trained to be an instructor in Canada at Stott Pilates, the company which manufactured the Reformer machines, and returned home with the idea of helping others by sharing her newfound knowledge.

Initially, the Suna studio was only one room with four Reformers and four mats. Out of necessity, mat and Reformer classes went on simultaneously, with clients doing half a class on the mats then switching to the Reformers and vice versa. Suna was one of the first studios anywhere to add Swiss ball (stability ball) exercises to Pilates classes. Using good old Kiwi ingenuity, Susie incorporated Swiss balls into the workout to move clients off the equipment so the trainers could clean and sterilise the mats and Reformers before everyone switched around. Now the use of Swiss balls is understood to be an important part of a Pilates workout.

Today, Pilates is recognised as crucial for professional athletes to build abdominal strength and avoid injuries, but back in the early 2000s it was virtually unknown. Suna was one of the first studios to attract professional athletes to Pilates, including many All Blacks and Warriors. Suna has always emphasised proper posture and correct technique. This is particularly important because the studio helps members heal

injuries, not just get in shape. Since Suna’s inception, thousands of people have come to Suna – many from far-flung countries – to train as Pilates instructors, which is the ultimate tribute to the Suna method.

Through the years, Suna has continued to innovate and find better ways to use Pilates to heal and strengthen members. For example, the standard Pilates mat sessions were deemed insufficient to provide a complete workout, so towers were installed behind each mat incorporating suspension straps, springs and pull-down bars. The padded towers also provide a platform for balance and strength exercises. These supercharged mat sessions are called 'Fit' sessions in recognition of the fact that they go far beyond a basic mat Pilates workout. Suna is the only studio in New Zealand, and perhaps anywhere, to offer Fit workouts.

Today at Suna there are three studios: a nine-person Reformer room, a 20-person Fit room, and a six-person training room used for instructor courses and personal training sessions, as well as two other personal training rooms. Over 100 classes and personal training sessions are offered each week. The studio has come a long way from its humble one-room beginning, but throughout the years, Suna has remained true to its core mission: helping its members become fitter, stronger, healthier and happier, so they can live their best lives.

Come and visit the Suna Studio and see what 25 years of experience and caring can do for you. As a part of our Sunaversary, we are offering discounted pricing for people who join in the month of March.

Suna Pilates

1 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 489 1987

info@sunapilates.co.nz sunapilates.co.nz

I have been writing articles on topics related to our health for a number of years and in Channel I keep you up to date on ways in which we might improve our health by becoming more aware of the many options that are available to us.

Hyperbaric oxygen an all-round wellness tool

Over the past few months, I have been visiting Cryo Health Solutions in Barry’s Point Road Takapuna where I have had many sessions in their ‘mild’ hyperbaric oxygen (mHBOT) chamber.

My reason for doing this is to support my immune system while I have been treated with antibiotics for an infection in my psoas muscle. On each occasion I have spent an hour in the chamber which is by no means an unpleasant experience.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is most commonly known as a treatment that is associated with helping divers recover from decompression sickness which can manifest when bubbles of nitrogen and other gases form in the bloodstream. The treatment involves breathing pure oxygen in an enclosed chamber at around 2.8 atmospheres pressure (which is the approx pressure at a depth of 60 feet).

One atmosphere of pressure is approx 14.7 PSI and this is what we encounter in our daily lives at sea level.

The use of HBOT has now expanded beyond its original treatment of decompression sickness in deep-sea divers. People from all walks of life are using ‘mild’ hyperbaric oxygen therapy (mHBOT) as an all-round wellness tool.

MHBOT chambers are set to achieve up to 1.5 atmospheres which is 50% more pressure than we experience at sea level. The mHBOT unit has an oxygen concentrator so while in the chamber one is breathing approx 93% oxygen via a nasal canula. The air that we breathe every day is just 21% oxygen.

MHBOT drives a lot more oxygen into circulation, delivering oxygen-rich blood to tissues to support immune cells and the normal healing process especially of wounds. When tissues, including blood vessels, are damaged mHBOT may support the repair and regeneration of these structures.

This was highlighted in a study published in the International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds (2018). The researchers were able to demonstrate a positive impact of mHBOT on wound healing. The increased oxygen level in the bloodstream was observed to support cellular regeneration and tissue, making mHBOT a valuable supportive option for individuals recovering from injuries or surgeries.

While mHBOT can deliver additional oxygen to our red bloods cells, it has also been shown to increase the oxygenation of plasma (which is around 55% of blood volume). Unlike red blood cells, plasma can pass through blood vessel walls and reach tissues where blood supply is compromised.

MHBOT can also be thought of as a beauty treatment as it may support collagen production in the skin thus reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

MHBOT therapy is very popular with athletes who are seeking to soothe aching muscles, to support a rapid recovery and a normal inflammatory response. A study in the International Journal of Sports Medicine (2019) suggested mHBOT may support exercise performance by increasing oxygen availability to muscles, reducing oxidative stress, and accelerating recovery. This makes mHBOT a promising option for those looking to optimise their fitness routines.

The good news about mHBOT therapy is that, for whatever reason one might have for a series of treatments, everyone gets all the potential wellness benefits.

For the first treatment, the pressure in the chamber may be set at 1.2 atmospheres and if there is no problem clearing the ears the pressure can be progressively increased. As the pressure increases, it’s a bit like how the ears can feel when descending in an aeroplane when the cabin pressure increases to what it is at ground level.

While in the chamber the time is yours. You can read a book, listen to a podcast (flight mode only) or simply fall asleep. I have found it to be incredibly relaxing.

As scientific research continues to uncover the positive impacts of mHBOT, individuals seeking a holistic approach to wellbeing may find this therapy to be a ‘breath of fresh air’ (pun intended) in their journey toward optimal health.

Cryo Health Solutions is operated by Jill Somerville, a highly skilled practitioner who will be able to answer any questions you may have. Jill’s number is 09-486-0141

John

Appleton john@johnappleton.co.nz johnappleton.co.nz

Phone 09 489 9362

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ELEMENTS

Silver Hip Flask & Chess Set

Looking for the perfect gift? This hip flask and chess set is a stylish and timeless choice. Presented in a beautifully crafted wooden gift box, it includes a sleek 9oz flask, two shot glasses and a classic wooden chess set - a thoughtful present for those who enjoy a good drink and a great game!

North Shore Merino L/S Roll Neck Top

Embrace e ortless style and warmth with this classic merino long sleeve roll neck top. Crafted for comfort, it pairs perfectly with any outfit, o ering a sleek and cosy fit. Available in a range of colours to suit every wardrobe, this versatile piece is a must-have for the cooler months.

MORE THAN COLOUR Nail, Lash & Waxing Services

STAFF PICK

More Than Colour o ers top-quality nail, lash and waxing services designed to help you look and feel your best. Their expert team provides professional, precision treatments that leave you ready to take on the season with confidence.

or a catch-up with family and friends. The Co ee Club has a menu full of flavour-packed options, making it a great spot to

Whether you’re after a rich espresso, a creamy latte or a comforting cup of tea, their extensive beverage menu has something to satisfy every craving. Stop by and enjoy the perfect autumn pick-me-up, complete with warmth and flavour that’s sure to brighten your day!

TIRAMISU MOCHA CHILLER

SPANISH LATTE CHILLER

RED VELVET CHOC CHILLER

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

SATURDAY 12 - SUNDAY 27 APRIL

Looking good and feeling better – uncovering keys to a healthy lifestyle

By Christine Young

After more than a decade as a volunteer for the charity Look Good Feel Better, North Shore resident Renee Rigden is now one of the organisation’s facilitators, running mindfulness as well as skincare and makeup classes. Christine Young talked to her to trace her career from corporate high-flier, to mindfulness facilitator and nutrition and lifestyle coach, towards becoming a qualified naturopath and medical herbalist.

This year Renee completes a Bachelor of Natural Medicine degree at South Pacific College of Natural Medicine. She initially trained as a make-up artist after leaving Westlake Girls High School, then worked for Japanese cosmetics giant Shiseido for eight years, first in retail and later, as she progressed through the ranks, in the company’s New Zealand head office, including in brand management, and ultimately as national sales manager. She loved the industry – and had no intention leaving until she hit a health crisis, an unfortunately all-too-common story for overbusy achievers in the corporate world.

“I returned to work with a one-year-old,” she says, doing more than a full-time job (“you

were there when you needed to be there” including national and international travel), and with her entrepreneurial husband in the throes of developing his own fast-growing business. These were the days before flexible working hours or working from home, and she commuted from North Shore to Glen Innes on a daily basis.

“I had high expectations of myself,” she says now, “and my body started sending strong messages…. It wasn’t sustainable.” She faced fertility issues, including a miscarriage, before an ectopic pregnancy led to emergency surgery. Successfully treated, but wanting to know why this was happening to her, she followed a friend’s recommendation to see a naturopath, and the seed was sown. Something had to give, and unless she wanted her children to be brought up by a nanny (she didn’t) she needed to change her lifestyle.

She enrolled in a one-year online health coaching certificate with New York-based Institute for Integrative Nutrition, selfdescribed as the “world’s leading integrative health and education platform, offering courses on health coaching, Ayurveda and more”.

This certificate was Renee’s entry into the natural health industry, providing personal knowledge as well as the “tools and information to work with people straight away”. The school’s philosophy, she says, is that there are lots of little things people can do to make a real difference to their health, working on areas like lifestyle, diet and sleep.

Renee was already involved with Look Good Feel Better, the charity of the cosmetics industry, that supports women (and now men) with tools to help them feel better about and cope with the physical changes they face as they go through treatment for cancer. Through this, she knew that seemingly small practical actions can improve outcomes for people, and the ethos of the health coaching certificate gelled well for her.

Look Good Feel Better’s wellbeing programme began more than 35 years ago, offering skincare and make-up classes. It provides a range of free sessions for anyone with any cancer, at any stage. It is, says the charity’s website, “time away from the world of diagnosis, treatment and recovery, to help… navigate cancer with confidence, feel stronger and live better.”

Renee first became involved as a volunteer while working for Shiseido, as part of Shiseido’s corporate volunteer programme; she was immediately taken with the benefits of the charity's approach after her first volunteer experience. Adding some of her own time to the corporate volunteer hours, she remained actively involved as a volunteer for 11 years, taking only a short break when she had very small children.

In 2018, she was asked if she would take on a part-time role to facilitate mindfulness as well as skincare and make-up classes. As facilitator, she is responsible for planning the content as well as running classes and taking everything needed (the cosmetics, donated by the cosmetics companies, plus tea and coffee) to the class locations, usually community spaces. Since Covid, says Renee, Look Good Feel Better has “diversified hugely”, and she now also offers mindfulness classes in person and on Zoom, alongside online skincare and make-up classes. The full Look Good Feel Better programme now also includes online classes run by others, that include chair yoga and gentle Pilates, men’s classes, on-demand refresher videos, and expert Q&As and podcasts.

In 2018, she was asked if she would take on a part-time role to facilitate mindfulness classes as well as skincare and make-up classes

The charity’s general manager and head office staff organise the programme schedule and tutors for each of the classes, while Renee works alongside volunteers who assist in her facilitator role. Her mindfulness class is offered monthly from February to December, and for the past five years she has she also run monthly skin care and make-up classes, though her study schedule prevents that this year. In addition, she takes classes at Starship Hospital for teenagers with cancer, and works on special events, for example events associated with Feel Better month in association with Farmers. Last month she was a speaker at the Cosmetics New Zealand Innovation and Connection Day, talking about her shift from the cosmetics industry to a focus on wellbeing, as well as about Look Good Feel Better.

But back to her initial move out of the cosmetics industry. The online health coaching course “is a life-changing experience for many people,” she says. And so it proved for her. Inspired, she worked on her own lifestyle and nutrition changes, before starting to work with others, within the “narrow framework” of the knowledge she had gained. However, while she could help with small incremental changes, she increasingly found that for deeper insightsand treatment, she needed to refer clients to a naturopath. “I had to stay in my lane as a health coach,” she says. “All the basic things do make a difference, but some people had more complex conditions and I couldn’t get to the root cause.”

In 2021 she enrolled in the three-year Bachelor of Natural Medicine programme at South Pacific College of Natural Medicine, aiming to become a clinical naturopath and medical herbalist, in a course that provides students with in-depth knowledge of the philosophy of natural medicine, herbal medicine, nutrition, research, anatomy and physiology, and pathophysiology. Opting to study part-time, she’s now in her clinical (final) year, working directly with patients under supervision at the college’s clinic in Ellerslie. As a student practitioner, she has a much greater understanding of all the body systems and will be able to prescribe supplements, read blood tests, and order specific testing. “I’ve realised how in-depth and evidencebased [naturopathy] is,” she says. “It’s helped me appreciate the scientific evidence that supports it…. I have learned so much from practitioners and others.”

Her career change has “worked out well”, she says; she’s successfully returned to study as an adult (including sitting a pre-requisite paper in chemistry before she started) alongside prioritising time for her two children (now aged 12 and nine). She

has continued her role as facilitator at Look Good Feel Better, and is also developing her own wellbeing consultancy.

The latest chapter in the latter journey has involved one-on-one, group and corporate wellbeing and nutrition work. She runs a wellness workshop targeted at teenage girls, covering information about nutrition, diet and awareness of puberty and development. She’s currently working on rolling this out further, including nationally online as well as to school groups or classes, and on developing a pay-it-forward initiative so that it can be offered to teenagers from families that may not have the necessary discretionary income. “The things I teach are very practical and evidence-based,” she says; she hopes that the courses counterbalance some of the inaccurate online information and perceptions teenagers are particularly susceptible to.

She has also started offering group coaching, a 21-day personalised detox programme, and a 10-day teenage programme with accompanying e-book. Corporate workshops, covering 12 principles to better health, involve participants looking at and analysing their lifestyles and putting in place some group goals, with Renee making a return visit after three or four weeks. “For some people, making sustainable changes needs support and accountability,” she notes wryly.

Add to this the recent publication of ‘The Healthy Start – Lunchbox Edition’ e-book, a joint project with holistic wellness advocate Sarah Tanner. She sees potential for breakfast and dinner editions, and it’s clear that while busy, Renee has embraced a fulfilling lifestyle that offers her the wellbeing she sought as she left the cosmetics industry while also assisting others to do likewise.

lgfb.co.nz • reneeshealth.com

Renee Rigden and Sarah Tanner

Vive La France is back again!

Channel Mag readers

Vive La France is back again this month in Milford – bigger and better than ever! We have a massive $2000 prize to be won for those that attend on the day.

Safer Shopping

You may have noticed the uniformed Auckland Council compliance officers patrolling the town centre at random times during the week.

The officers proved so successful in the central city, that Mayor Wayne Brown has extended them to the suburbs. And with significant results – the last two homeless people who were frequenting Milford have been housed by our local officers who will continue to monitor and deal with disruptive behaviour.

Vive La France Vive La France

11 AM - 3 PM

• French Food Stalls

• Cheeseland French Cheese Tasting

• French Wine Tasting at Fine’O’Wine Milford Road and in the centre court of the mall

• Market Stalls by My Markets

• Familiar French entertainers on stage

• Pétanque court

139 Kitchener Rd, Upper Car Park Milford

We welcome the move as it becomes the last piece of the Milford security puzzle which now encompasses the entire day.

Matrix Security and Global Security as well as the police do random sweeps through the town centre at nights. The Milford Centre has security officers during opening hours seven days per week and our business owners also keep an eye on things, a recent example being the removal of the trees on land behind The Hub, where there were some undesirable people living on and off.

Make sure you get along to Vive La France! Have a great March.

Murray Hill, Manager, Milford Business Association, manager@milfordshops.co.nz. 021 950 463. milfordshops.co.nz facebook milfordshops instagram milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV

Feeling adventurous in 2025?

If your idea of the perfect getaway involves stepping out of your comfort zone, immersing yourself in the unknown and embracing the thrill of discovery, then adventure travel is calling your name in 2025.

Whether it’s trekking through remote mountain ranges, diving into the depths of the ocean or exploring rugged landscapes on two wheels, adventure travel is more than just a trip – it’s a transformative experience. From gaining new perspective, embracing new cultures and environments, to creating lifelong memories with the ones we love, adventure travel is a chance to leave our comfort zones, explore the world and truly live.

In a world where travel is more accessible than ever, 2025 is the perfect time to redefine how you explore. Adventure tourism is booming, offering endless opportunities to push your limits while connecting with nature, culture and yourself. From epic solo journeys to guided expeditions, there’s an adventure for every level of thrill-seeker.

For those craving extreme environments, Antarctica and the Arctic

You’re invited to join us!

Join us Thursday 13 March 2025 for our upcoming FREE Adventure Travel Information Evening

Chat with a selection of Travel Experts representing various adventure travel products for those craving a holiday with a di erence. Destinations include: Antarctica, Arctic, Iceland, South America, India, Southeast Asia, Alaska, Canada and Australia. Suitable for all styles of travel - cruising, group or independent travel.

Thursday 13 March 2025

Visit anytime between 5pm until 6.30pm

Includes: drinks, nibbles & door prizes

Pupuke Golf Club Rooms

RSVP essential: hello@shoretravel.co.nz

Shore Travel

Cnr Kitchener & Milford Roads, Milford (09) 489 2597 hello@shoretravel.co.nz www.shoretravel.co.nz

promise breathtaking icy landscapes, wildlife encounters and the magic of the Northern or Southern lights. Iceland’s volcanic terrain and waterfalls offer a surreal adventure. In South America, destinations like Patagonia and the Amazon rainforest deliver unparalleled hiking, wildlife and cultural immersion. India and Southeast Asia provide thrilling motorbike journeys, mountain treks and spiritual retreats. Alaska and Canada are perfect for rugged wilderness explorations, while Australia’s outback and Great Barrier Reef invite daring souls to dive deep into adventure. In Africa, safaris in Kenya and Tanzania, gorilla trekking in Uganda and sandboarding in Namibia offer unforgettable encounters with some of the world’s most diverse landscapes and wildlife. Ready to take the plunge? Join us for our upcoming Adventure Travel information evening to explore the best adventure destinations, travel tips and trends to help you embrace your boldest journey yet. Register via the details in the advert below.

Phone: 09 489 2597 or email hello@shoretravel.co.nz

The North Shore, what a great place to live (and work)

Many readers will have heard Martin Cooper say this, and he's spot on

I've spent more than 45 years being educated, living and working on the North Shore: Milford Primary, Takapuna Intermediate, Westlake Boys were my schooling. As a young adolescent/young man, I worked as a manager at McDonald's Shore City (where Les Mills is now), and then I walked the beat as a frontline police officer on the North Shore for six years.

I've been elected at local body elections and represented my local community here, and my first job as a lawyer was at Schnauer and Co when it was located on the corner of Kitchener Rd and Fenwick Ave in Milford.

That was in 2001

The more things change, the more they stay the same. I'm now back in MIlford and it feels great. I can almost see the house I was raised in just off East Coast Rd. I have many happy memories from growing up in Milford - the swing into the marina; jumping off the Inga Rd bridge into the estuary; investigating the rock pools while walking between Milford and Takapuna beaches. There are many more. It feels right to be back doing what I love: practicing law and helping people through life's inevitable problems and challenges using legal methods and solutions.

It also feels right buying Jim Thompson's business. We have similar philosophies and outlook in life. It has been an exceptionally smooth transition. Both Jim and his staff have been welcoming, friendly and, well, quite brilliant actually. For those wondering, Jim is still working here fulltime until August, and following that on a part time basis. In short, he's still around, and will be around. But once August comes and goes, there will be a slow transition into a name change of Shore Legal.

We have similar philosophies and outlook in life. It has been an exceptionally smooth transition. Both Jim and his staff have been welcoming, friendly and, well, quite brilliant actually.

Why?

Well, firstly because I agree with Martin Cooper. And, so, incorporating the word Shore into the name of the firm just made sense. I want to be part of a growing name and brand that associates legal work and solutions with the wonderful place that is the North Shore. Hence, Shore Legal.

The website isn't far away, and clients and others with eagle eyes will gradually start to notice rebranding with nice bright colours. As I say to anyone who asks, “when you’re in business, there’s always plenty to do”.

But at the end of the day, brands, names and logos are only as strong as the people behind them and the service that is provided through them. I like to think I have a strong service ethos, with credit due here to the McDonald’s training I received as a youngster.

It has been a very busy nine months since I took over Jim Thompson’s practice, and I have enjoyed every day. Moving office from Taharoto Rd to Milford was a challenge, but with the right people assisting, all of whom went in the same direction, it was relatively seamless (special thanks Tolla and the team from Mi IT!).

Shore Legal is now settled in Milford. There are plenty of cafes (Beam is my favourite); the beach is five minutes away and there are a myriad of decent options for a drink after work on a Friday. I previously anointed Murray Blair of Prestige Realty as the Mayor of Milford, and am working hard to take that title off him.

To coin Martin Cooper’s phrase again, with an extra addition, “The North Shore, what a great place to live (and work)”!

Nick Kearney

Director,

Shore Legal Limited

LLM,

LLB, Dip. Pol.

Shore Legal

t/a Jim Thompson Law

Phone: 09 486 0745

Level 1, 121-123 Kitchener Road, Milford, Auckland

nick@jimthompsonlaw.co.nz

Nick Kearney

Harbour Hospice's art exhibition fundraiser

Harbour Hospice is launching an exciting new art exhibition and sale, with a special ticketed opening night on Friday 28 March.

Art Affair will be held the weekend of 29-30 March at its Warkworth building, Tui House, and funds raised will ensure that Hospice can continue to provide free specialist palliative care to local families.

“This is the first time that Tui House is opening its doors to an art exhibition and sale, and it’s going to be a very elegant event,” says Harbour Hospice Community and Events Fundraiser Emily Thomas.

“Art Affair will enable us to continue to support the incredible local art scene, and also welcome the community into our space so they can learn more about the care we provide.”

The exhibition will feature 12 accomplished artists, including Craig Primrose from Matakana, who is one of New Zealand’s leading contemporary artists. Craig’s portraiture, sporting imagery and landscape paintings are sought after around the world. In 2010 he was awarded a Queen's Service Medal for his contribution to the arts.

Craig and his wife Helen began quietly supporting Hospice after witnessing its “phenomenal” care of family members. He was recently reminded of that care through a friend’s experience, and asked Hospice how he could help.

Craig is creating an artwork especially for the exhibition - the study of a tui, which is fitting for Tui House. It will be unveiled on opening night. “I really hope the person who buys it will gift it back to hospice so that it can remain in the building for all to enjoy,” he says.

Craig will be joined by exhibiting artists Hazel Hunt, Kristin Hyde, Miki Nozomi, Pauline Gough, Joaquin Zepeda, Lissy Robinson-Cole, Jackie Bott, Louise McRae, Vicki Fanning, and Rebecca Hawkins, as well as his daughter Tori Thomas, an interior designer who specialises in abstract floral art.

It’s the first time that father and daughter have exhibited together, Craig says. “It’s very exciting – although I’m a bit worried she’ll outshine me. She’s a very talented artist!”

Art Affair - Tui House, 47 Morrison Drive, Warkworth Saturday 29 March to Sunday 30 March 10am – 4pm

Opening night Friday 28 March is a ticketed event only For details and opening night tickets: harbourhospice.org.nz/event/art-affair/

By Dan Bidois, MP for Northcote

“A rising tide lifts all boats”

– John F. Kennedy

I know it’s a tough time out there for many, which is why our government is working hard to make sure there’s a brighter future for all New Zealanders in 2025 and beyond.

Central to this is a growing economy. Without a growing economy, my son, your children and our grandchildren will simply have no viable future in New Zealand.

The legacy Labour, and successive governments to be fair, left us with, is a future with high government debt, low incomes and low economic opportunities relative to our international peers.

To tackle this we have two options: either to tax everyone and everything more, or to pick ourselves up as a people, become more productive and lift our economy to new heights. Our approach is about aggressively pursuing the latter through our Going for Growth strategy.

Our plan includes building a world class education system, getting rid of regulation that stymies development and growth, welcoming foreign investment and trade, getting on and building infrastructure – not just talking about it – and incentivising innovation and commercialisation of research and development.

The summit will showcase investment-ready projects that will deliver new jobs, stronger businesses and better infrastructure.

In January, the Prime Minister unveiled Invest New Zealand, a one-stop shop to attract foreign investment and create high-paying jobs, modelled on successful examples from countries such as Ireland and Singapore. This initiative will open the door to more capital and innovation in sectors like banking, fintech and energy.

This month we are hosting an Infrastructure Investment summit, bringing together 100 top global investors, business leaders and construction companies, to unlock opportunities that will grow our economy and strengthen our communities.

The summit will showcase investment-ready projects that will deliver new jobs, stronger businesses and better infrastructure. Investors will hear directly from the Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers about the government’s pro-growth policies and streamlined regulations.

Also on the agenda is the biggest reset of the science and innovation sector in more than 30 years. New reforms will modernise the way we harness Kiwi ingenuity with a sharper focus on commercialising research to deliver real economic benefits.

The foundations for a more prosperous economy are being laid, but we know these actions must be translated into real improvements and results in our communities.

I look forward to updating you regularly on our economic progress and welcome any feedback you may have on our agenda.

See you in our community sometime soon!

Dan Bidois – MP for Northcote dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz

Phone: 09 481 1089

facebook: @danbidoismp instagram: @danbidoismp

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Seemore Tours: Discover more, experience more

Seemore Tours is a North Shorebased business specialising in small-group tours for mature travellers. We go beyond the ordinary, offering immersive journeys across New Zealand. We don’t just take you to stunning destinations – we introduce you to the people, history and stories that bring them to life.

Why travel with Seemore Tours?

Unlike mainstream travel companies, Seemore Tours caters to mature New Zealanders eager to explore their own backyard. We prioritise accommodations with walk-in showers and easy access, comfortable vehicles with handrails and steps, and flexible experiences tailored to your pace. Days are designed for both adventure and relaxation.

Most importantly, our tours are unique. Our philosophy is simple: If you can easily book it yourself or find it online, then we’re not doing it right. The most memorable moments come from unexpected encounters, whether it's a farmer sharing his land’s history, an artist revealing their inspiration, or a guide leading you off the beaten path to a hidden gem.

Destinations that inspire

Seemore Tours showcases the best of New Zealand, from the birdsong-filled sanctuaries of Kapiti Island to the rugged coastlines of West Coast South Island. Wine lovers can indulge in the world-class vineyards of Martinborough, while history buffs will be enchanted by Māori legends and colonial heritage sites.

Unlike many tour operators, we don’t just breeze through a town or skim over a region. We take the time to truly experience each place, appreciating what makes it unique. For example, in Motueka, where the fruit industry thrives, we naturally include a visit to a pack house to gain insight into this important local trade.

For those seeking a true escape, our Alpine Mid-Winter Christmas Tour offers a rare glimpse into some of New Zealand’s most remote

Experience the magic of Greytown’s Mid-Winter Christmas festival on this 6-day tour! Travel on the Northern Explorer Train, stay four nights in central Greytown, and explore its festive charm. Visit Cape Palliser, Wairarapa’s renowned wine region, and the stunning Castlepoint lagoon for an unforgettable winter escape.

and breathtaking locations while celebrating Christmas at the illustrious Ayreburn Station. We also offer select international adventures, taking travellers on exclusive journeys to captivating destinations.

A more intimate travel experience

Seemore Tours specialises in small-group travel, ensuring a more personal and immersive experience. Most groups consist of around 8-16 people, allowing for greater flexibility, deeper connections with fellow travellers and exclusive access to places that larger tours simply can’t reach.

Stress-free, all-inclusive travel

With Seemore Tours, everything is taken care of, from handpicked accommodations and delicious regional cuisine to expert guiding and seamless transport. If you live in a main centre, you'll be picked up and dropped off at your home, and if you're outside of these centres, we’ll connect you for a minimal fee. No hidden costs, no stressful planning, just a perfectly curated escape where all you need to bring is your sense of adventure.

Book your next adventure

Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or food and wine connoisseur, a Seemore Tour is waiting for you. With limited spaces on each exclusive departure, now is the time to secure your spot and experience the journey of a lifetime. Visit seemoretours.co.nz to explore upcoming tours today!

Seemore Tours

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: Unit 10, Huron Street, Takapuna 0800 SEEMORE (0800 733 6672)

+64 (21) 990 141 info@seemoretours.co.nz seemoretours.co.nz

Embark on a Mid-Winter Christmas adventure from the Main Divide to Fiordland! Explore Punakaiki, Hokitika, and Franz Josef Glacier, cruise Milford Sound, and enjoy a Haast River safari. With two nights in Queenstown, the highlight is a festive Mid-Winter Christmas dinner at the stunning Ayrburn Station, complete with all the trimmings.

Enclosed jet boat adventure through the greenstone-lined Haast River (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Featured in the Alpine MidWinter Christmas Tour.

Discover a New Way to Retire at The Botanic Silverdale

The Botanic Silverdale is a premier, luxury, resort-style retirement village centrally located just north of Auckland on the beautiful Hibiscus Coast. It offers the very best in aged care living with modern apartments and luxury villas designed for active, independent retirees living busy and purposeful lives.

Imagine waking to birdsong, strolling through beautifully landscaped gardens, and enjoying a rich lifestyle grounded in wellness, connection, purpose, and joy.

The Botanic Silverdale is shaping the future of retirement living on the Hibiscus Coast, combining modern design and luxury amenities with the restorative power of nature.

Two and three-bedroom villas, and spacious, light-filled apartments feature open-plan living, floor-toceiling glass, high-quality finishes, and generous balconies, patios, or decks.

Every detail, from the foundations to the finishing touches, has been carefully curated and the end result is homes that are as stylish as they are functional – providing a warm, secure, and welcoming place for retirees to call home.

Luxury Amenities

The beating heart of The Botanic is the award-winning Clubhouse Café which serves up barista-made coffee, a delicious range of freshly prepared cabinet delights, and an extensive à la carte menu alongside the fully stocked bar.

Other luxury amenities include a three-rink bowling green, and the magnificent Poolhouse with a resortstyle 20m swimming pool, sauna, stream room, jacuzzi, and fully equipped gym.

One of the most impressive residentled amenities is the large Community Garden which includes two 26m2 ‘Winter Gardenz’ glasshouses which are surrounded by 24 planter boxes, and an edible garden of fruit trees and vines.

Once fully constructed, The Botanic will also provide a full continuum of care including a specialised memory care centre.

On the Move?

Are you a retiree on-the-go? The Botanic’s ‘lock up and leave’ lifestyle is perfect for those seeking a spontaneous and flexible lifestyle. You can head off on an overseas cruise or grab a bag and head to the bach knowing your home is secure, and all of the maintenance is taken care of.

Planning Ahead? Villas Under Construction Now

For those looking to plan ahead, the two and three-bedroom villas are currently under construction and will be completed later this year.

These elegant, spacious homes will provide an extra level of privacy and independence while still offering the convenience and community feel of village life.

For those ready to move now, The Botanic has some apartments available in the iconic Rimu building including spacious two and three bedroom units with two bathrooms, expansive views, and underground parking.

Move in when it suits you

Whether you’re ready to move in now or just curious about retirement living, pop in and see Michelle, Jan, or Kathryn in the Show Home. Call them on 0508 268 264 or go to thebotanic.co.nz

Don’t wait to start the next exciting chapter of your life!

‘It felt like home from the moment I arrived’

Welcome to the fourth story in a series that shares the experiences of residents at Metlifecare’s Orion Point. Hear how they came to be there, what shaped their choice of retirement village, and what life is like since making Orion Point their home.

Trading the quiet solitude of her former home for the vibrant, close-knit community at Orion Point has been a welcome change for Sheila Fisher.

The upkeep of a large two-story, fourbedroom home was becoming increasingly challenging, but it was an unsettling confrontation with a stranger in her driveway one night that gave Sheila the final push she needed to make the move.

“Living alone, I realised I needed more security,” Sheila recalls. “I want to feel safe in my own home, and I just didn’t feel that way anymore.”

Keen to stay close to friends and family on the North Shore, Sheila began exploring retirement village options and almost settled on one - until she saw Orion Point in Hobsonville.

“I came to talk to the Sales Executive about a different Metlifecare village. But the moment I saw this apartment, I knew it was the one for me.”

The idea of apartment living was initially a bit of a leap for Sheila. “Coming from a larger property, I never pictured myself in an apartment,” she admits. “But the layout here was different to anything I’d seen at other villages. With two bedrooms and two bathrooms separated by the kitchen and living area, it’s a perfect set-up for when my family visits.”

The modern design, luxurious finishes, and sense of security she’d been looking for sealed the deal.

“I didn’t want to be in an older village with tall, five-story buildings where the walls feel like they are closing in on you. I wanted something bright and spacious, and because Orion Point is a new village, you get to grow with the community.”

The convenient location was another big selling point for Sheila. Staying close to her favourite spots and her gym in Glenfield was important.

“Health and fitness have always been a big part of my life, especially as I get older. I’ve always been into sports - karate, tennis, badminton, squash - you name it. I love setting goals and pushing my limits.”

As a former bodybuilder, Sheila knows a thing or two about challenging herself. She entered her

Sheila Fisher in her new Orion Point apartment

“I’ve

always considered myself introverted and shy, but I’ve surprised myself here. I love meeting new people and being part of the community. It’s the best move I’ve ever made.”

first competition at the impressive age of 56 and went on to win multiple medals, competing in six regional and three national contests - all against athletes much younger than her.

“Getting older doesn’t mean slowing down,” she says. “For me, it’s about having the freedom to live life on my terms and keep doing what I love.”

These days, Sheila keeps active at the gym, makes the most of the village fitness centre,

enjoys the local coastal walking tracks, and has even given line dancing a whirl. Retirement has also given her the chance to revisit old passions and explore new ones. She’s taken up photography classes, spends time pencil drawing, enjoys arts and crafts, and knits for the local markets.

But what has surprised Sheila the most about life at Orion Point is the incredible sense of community.

“When you’re on your own, you can’t help but wonder whether you’ll fit in. But I didn’t need to worry about that. I’ve been made to feel so incredibly welcome and included. The staff and residents go out of their way to help you settle in.

I felt like part of the place from day one.”

“I’ve always considered myself reserved and shy, but I’ve surprised myself here. I love meeting new people and being part of the community. It’s the best move I’ve ever made.”

Find a village that feels like home

Call Kirsty on 09 300 0518 | orionpointsales@metlifecare.co.nz

62 Tahingamanu Road, Hobsonville | orionpoint.co.nz

Sheila loves the sense of community at Orion Point

This month we have a focus on retirement living. North of the harbour bridge, we have some fabulous options for our older folk looking to enhance their lifestyles and enjoy their retirement years. One of those options is The Poynton retirement village located close to Takapuna and Milford. During February we popped along to the Metlifecare-operated village to talk with two residents who are really in the swing of retirement village life, having both called The Poynton home for over a decade. Bill Jaques and Lillian Bennett actually moved into the village within months of one another back in 2014.

Investing in a lifestyle

Bill Jaques spent 31 years in the Navy, also worked for the Auckland Harbour Board and the port company. He’s had a lifetime of involvement with the sea, living in Devonport, being a member of the Devonport Yacht Club (he’s still involved) and rising to the rank of commander in the Navy.

Bill joined the Navy aged just 15, going on to specialise in hydrographic surveying. This involved lots of sea time and boat work, plus, in those days, some land surveying, mathematics and chart drawing – a mix he says he found very satisfying. He served on the ‘Lachlan’, on exchange in HMS 'Cook’ in the Pacific, and in both of the 72-foot surveying HDMLs 'Takapu' and 'Tarapunga'. He eventually captained the HMNZS 'Monowai'.

Life on the water didn’t stop there. Even after he and his late wife Sally retired, they bought a half share of a barge on the waterways of Europe and spent nine summers (New Zealand winters) exploring!

Bill and Sally sailed for many years as members of the Devonport Yacht Club in their Whiting 29. Bill has served on the club committee, as sailing master, clubhouse captain and eventually treasurer. Now in his mid-80s he’s slowing down but still enjoys an involvement with the club and also fills the treasurer role at a Devonport-based not-forprofit trust.

Sally and Bill, along with their much love dog Gromit, moved into The Poynton in March 2014. They decided on a two-bedroom third floor apartment.

“It was clear to me that Sally’s health was failing so it was time for us to sell our Devonport townhouse of 26 years and find something that suited our needs,” explains Bill Jaques when quizzed about how his move to retirement living came about.

“Sally was in North Shore Hospital, and I was driving past The Poynton daily to visit her. Sally and I had discussed the move to a retirement village, and at one stage I had even joined a friend for a visit during an open day at The Poynton. Ironically the friend never moved in, but I went back for another look when Sally was in hospital, and we together decided it was the place for us. Eleven years on I have no regrets; it is a great lifestyle.

“We loved our life in Devonport, and we missed it. But it was time to move on. Our home was on a hill, and it was not going to get easier for us.”

Bill says that for the first couple of years he continued with outside interests. When those came to an end he found croquet on his doorstep in the village. He has really enjoyed it – both the game and the people. He continues to play regularly.

“Sally and I really enjoyed the ease of apartment living and the circle of great friends we have made. As Sally’s health deteriorated, I became more and more her caregiver. However, being in the village, I was able to leave her alone occasionally to play croquet and have some social life. Sally passed away two years ago. Now I’m on my own, and slowing down somewhat, I take great comfort in the support that is around me at The Poynton. It is a lot better than ageing alone. Some may resist the move to retirement living and leave it too late. Looking back, we made a very good decision to come to The Poynton when we did. Gromit loves it as well. He was an ‘SPCA special’ and just three years old when we made the move; he’s now 14 and loves watching me play croquet and the local walks.”

Lillian Bennett moved to a brand-new ground floor one bedroom apartment at The Poynton in April 2014. This was two years after Noel, her husband of 50 years, passed away suddenly.

“Noel and I had looked at The Poynton as an option for our retirement lifestyle during the year prior to his passing,” explains Lillian. “He was very comfortable living at our Takapuna home so wasn’t ready to move. It was a shame; he would have loved it here.

Bill Jaques in his apartment at The Poynton

“When we lost him suddenly, I stayed in our Hauraki home for a year before I decided to have a look at The Poynton again. I told my two sons that I was ready to investigate the options. We ended up deciding on the one-bedroom apartment that was under construction. Not only was it brand new and I could have a say in the fit-out, being on the ground-floor it was also perfect for my pug dog Paddy. Around six months later we were in our brand-new apartment, and we loved it.

The Poynton has been wonderful for me, but there are so many good villages around now to choose from.

“At that time, I was one of several new residents who moved into our new block. I have made some wonderful friends at The Poynton over the past decade, and we all look out for one another. We have travelled together, played hundreds and hundreds of games of croquet and had lots of fun. I feel like I am never alone.

“When I first moved in, I was presented with a croquet mallet by the late Claude Monk, who was making them himself in the Men’s Shed. I will be forever thankful for that gift as it made me get involved and play the game with other residents. I have progressed on to coach and organise croquet at The Poynton. Croquet is now part of my daily life, and I enjoy it immensely.”

Lillian turns 92 in May and has some advice for those considering retirement village living.

“Just do it,” says Lillian. “The Poynton has been wonderful for me, but there are so many good villages around now to choose from. We visit some of the local villages playing croquet from time to time and they are all very nice. Forget about the money and investment and all that stuff. Deciding to move into a luxurious and safe environment like The Poynton is an investment in a lifestyle – and it’s a very comfortable lifestyle.

“I moved here in my early 80s, and

looking back Noel and I should have done it earlier. It has been wonderful for me on my own but would also have been a wonderful lifestyle for us to share – so comfortable, safe and secure. It’s home. My kids, grandchildren and great grandchildren love coming here and we even have our annual family Christmas party in the café and lounge area.”

Bill and Lillian’s experience and endorsements confirm what we already knew. Our local retirement villages are fantastic!

Lillian Bennett, loves croquet at The Poynton

By Steve Deacon

Keeping things flowing with Seal Plumbing

Retirement is a time to slow down, enjoy life, and finally tick off those long-awaited bucket list items. But while you’re taking it easy, your plumbing shouldn’t! Keeping your home’s plumbing in top shape is essential for hassle-free living, and as we get older, the last thing anyone wants is dealing with unexpected leaks, faulty hot water systems or blocked drains.

At Seal Plumbing, we understand that active ageing is about maintaining independence and a stress-free home. Whether you're downsizing, renovating to make your home more accessible, or simply wanting to ensure your plumbing is in top shape for the years ahead, we’ve got you covered. A few things to think about as you settle into retirement:

• Easy-access fixtures: Updating taps, showers and toilets to more accessible options can make daily tasks easier and more comfortable.

• Hot water reliability: No one wants a cold shower, especially in the cooler months. Checking your hot water system now can save you from an unexpected breakdown later.

• Leak checks and water pressure: Small leaks and high water pressure can lead to costly damage if left unchecked. A routine check can help prevent future issues.

• Blocked drains: Tree roots and build-up can cause slow drains, leading to bigger problems down the track. Regular maintenance keeps everything running smoothly.

• Retirement is about enjoying life, not dealing with plumbing hassles. Let Seal Plumbing take care of the maintenance so you can focus on the good stuff, like travel, family and well-earned relaxation.

Give us a call at 021 797 912 and let’s keep your home worryfree for the years ahead!

Seal Plumbing and Gas Services

- where quality meets reliability.

021 79 79 12

sealplumbing.co.nz

HOMES & GARDENS: REFRESH RENOVATIONS

Jeremy & Sarah Lowe, Renovation Consultants

Make the most of March: Smart renovation planning

March’s warm days make it the perfect time to plan renovations – but with cooler months ahead, future-proofing your home is key. Whether you're considering small upgrades or a full renovation, thoughtful planning now ensures your space remains stylish and functional all year. Here are six smart renovation tips to guide you.

Maximise natural light: Take advantage of North Shore’s sunshine with large windows, skylights, or glass doors to create a bright, airy feel. If major changes aren’t in your plan, use mirrors to reflect light and opt for light-coloured furnishings. Layered window treatments provide flexibility for both sunlight and insulation.

Improve indoor-outdoor flow: Extend your living space with bifold or sliding doors for a seamless transition to outdoor areas. Since renovations may finish in cooler months, plan for retractable pergolas, outdoor heaters, or windbreaks to keep your space functional year-round.

Refresh with seasonal colours: As autumn approaches, introduce warm, earthy tones like deep greens, terracotta, or muted blues for a stylish refresh. A fresh coat of paint on walls, cabinetry, or accent pieces is an easy and cost-effective way to transform your home.

Upgrade your kitchen: Enhance both aesthetics and functionality with modern tapware, statement lighting, or a new splash back. For bigger renovations, consider open shelving, a spacious island, or additional storage to make everyday living and entertaining effortless.

Boost comfort and efficiency: Prepare for cooler months with insulation, double-glazed windows, and thermal curtains. If planning a major upgrade, underfloor heating or a modern heat pump ensures warmth without high energy costs.

Enhance street appeal: A fresh front door colour, stylish lighting, or a new pathway can instantly elevate curb appeal. Inside, built-in storage keeps entryways clutter-free and welcoming.

Thinking about renovating? Let’s chat!

Refresh Renovations 022 682 1237 sarah.lowe@refresh.co.nz refresh.co.nz

facebook Jeremy and Sarah at Refresh instagram jeremyandsarah.refresh

By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and director at Lake Road Electrical

Embracing retirement and active ageing with Lake Road Electrical

Retirement is your time to shine, a period to enjoy the fruits of your life's work. On Auckland’s North Shore, retirement means more than just slowing down; it's about active ageing and making the most of every moment in a community known for its scenic beauty and vibrant lifestyle. At Lake Road Electrical, we’re committed to ensuring that your home matches your retirement aspirations, combining comfort with convenience.

In the journey of active ageing, the safety and functionality of your home are paramount. That's where we come in. Our electrical services are tailored to make your home as comfortable and hassle-free as possible. Whether you're renovating to include more age-friendly features or installing smart home technology to simplify tasks, our skilled electricians ensure that your electrical systems are safe, efficient and up to date.

Think about the possibilities: automated lighting that adjusts with the time of day, heating systems that can be controlled remotely, or entertainment systems that enhance your audio-visual experience at home. These upgrades not only increase your comfort, but also keep your energy costs down, letting you invest more in your hobbies and passions.

As the concept of retirement evolves, so does the need for homes that adapt to changing mobility and lifestyle needs. Lake Road Electrical can help you future-proof your home. From adding extra outlets that eliminate the need to stretch cords across rooms to enhancing outdoor lighting for security and accessibility, no task is too big or small.

Lake Road Electrical is more than just a service provider; we are your partners in making sure that your golden years are truly golden. Let us handle the complexities of electrical work while you focus on enjoying a vibrant, active retirement.

Ready to optimise your home for retirement living? Contact Lake Road Electrical today, and let’s discuss how we can support your vision of an active, fulfilling retirement. Because here, your comfort and safety are our top priorities!

from Amanda Graham, Newhaven Gardens. North Shore hedge trimming, garden tidy ups, planting, pruning and garden maintenance.

Baker Tree Services

At NewhavenGardens we are very grateful to have built some great relationships with colleagues across the horticulture sector. We really try to provide our clients with the best possible advice and care, so finding partners we can depend upon to care for our clients in the same manner has been no mean feat.

In the past I have mentioned the wonderful garden designer Erin Farrow over at eflandscapes.co.nz/ and of course we are very proud to watch one of our own – Kenya – as she grows and expands her own excellent garden care company elitegardens.co.nz/

However, this month we are very proud to celebrate six years of working with Jon Baker and his highly skilled team of arborists over at Baker Tree Services. While we regularly carry out hedge trimming (up to approx 3.5m), and tree pruning to smaller trees, we frequently rely on Baker Tree Services’ tree surgeons and tree felling experts, for providing safe tree and hedge trimming services to larger trees. Jon’s knowledge and advice has also been invaluable over the years.

So why use an arborist?

There are many reasons to hire an arborist, the most common being, of course, to trim and prune larger trees, in a safe manner. However, other reasons to contact an arborist include identifying and treating tree diseases, safely and professionally identifying and removing dead or diseased trees, or ones which may pose a threat to surrounding property.

On top of all of the above, Baker Tree Services is also able to stump grind, fell palm trees (including root removal), and provide firewood and mulch, and Jon’s knowledge is second to none. If you need expert advice or tree work to be carried out contact Jon and the team at bakertrees.co.nz/

Amanda Graham

Newhaven Gardens Ltd 021 378969 instagram.com/newhavengardens/ amanda@newhavengardens.co.nz newhavengardens.co.nz

Top tips

This month, as the winter sports season gets under way, we profile four of our local rugby club leaders. Each of these hardworking people has their own unique story; many of them share a love of rugby with their wider family and absolutely all of them demonstrate their passion for both their club and the wider game. 2025 registrations are open now for most clubs. Read more on the club nearest to you in these interviews.

Rugby clubs remain the heart of the community

Callum McNair

CLUB MANAGER, NORTH SHORE RUGBY CLUB

Callum is the club manager at North Shore and has lived on the Devonport peninsula for over 30 years with his family of five kids and two dogs! He has volunteered at all levels of sport, including cycling, athletics, netball and rugby. Alongside volunteering, Callum has made a career out of sports management working for the likes of the Warriors, New Zealand Football, Netball New Zealand, New Zealand Rugby, North Harbour Rugby and in the school system in a role at Takapuna Grammar as sports director. Callum talks all things North Shore Rugby, since becoming more involved as his children started in sport.

Channel Mag: Have you always played or been involved in rugby? How did you get involved in your club?

Callum McNair: Growing up, I played sporadically and poorly, with my last outing for the North Shore Presidents grade a number of years back. My serious involvement came through my kids throughout their junior, college and senior grades, coaching, managing and sitting on various committees. It is now a pleasure to be contributing in this role to a club that has given so much to my family and myself.

How would you describe your club and the role it plays in the local community?

North Shore is an iconic club, the second oldest in the country and I would argue one of the strongest and most loyal communities in the country. The club sits at the very heart of this community, engaging its players, their whānau and the wider peninsula in everything we do. The club is massively appreciative of the business support it receives from throughout North Shore as well as the strong relationship we foster with other rugby clubs and the wider sports community.

What are your offerings for juniors and seniors? Do you want new people to join? Our doors are always wide open. A healthy, active community is what we stand for. The game itself offers wonderful life skills for its participants that are second to none. It teaches much-needed skills like discipline, resilience, strength of character, respect, managing adversity, value of team mates as well as a raft of other individual attributes. Of course North Shore Rugby provides opportunities to engage in the game whether that be through contact or non-contact versions, sevens rugby and social grades

What’s a favourite rugby moment for you? Rugby has provided many great moments. While World Cup wins, Super Rugby triumphs and the like are fantastic, to be honest it is hard to beat an early Saturday morning down

at your local ground dressing the fields ready for the day ahead. Or the thrill of watching your home town team take on its rivals at home. Watching my kids and their mates play is always a thrill.

If you could play another sport, what would it be and why?

I love all sports. I love cycling for its freedom; love running for the mates I have with me; love swimming for the peace in the water. I am a fan of big events, although I’ve never been good enough to be in the centre of the park.

It costs nothing to find out.

northshorerugby.co.nz

Callum McNair

Rory Bowerman

CLUB CAPTAIN, EAST COAST BAYS RUGBY CLUB

Rory is born and bred on Shore, growing up in Forrest Hill with his parents and two sisters. These days, Rory is in a partnership, running a small local building company, and currently living in Torbay with his wife and two kids. Rory is the club captain at East Coast Bays Rugby. He talks about starting rugby at Rangitoto College and his favourite sporting moments.

Channel Mag: Have you always played or been involved in rugby? How did you get involved in your club?

Rory Bowerman: I started rugby at the age of 14 at Rangitoto College. I wasn't very good after playing soccer for most of my youth but there was something about the game that I loved. I joined the club after leaving high school and getting contacted about under-19s pre-season trials. I initially wasn't fussed on going as I was working out of Auckland but my father encouraged me to go along and stick around for a beer after and I've never looked back. Going from playing to coaching to now being on the committee and being given the club captain role is a real privilege.

How would you describe your club and the role it plays in the local community? We are constantly trying to improve and always want to consider ourselves

seeing the hundreds of families rolling through the gates from 8am on a Saturday morning through to seniors in the afternoon. The black and green colours are a strong part of our local environment.

Being awarded the Junior club of the year at the 2024 Harbour Rugby awards was an awesome achievement…

What are your offerings for juniors and seniors? Do you want new people to join?

We have one of the largest junior clubs in the country. Being awarded the Junior Club of the Year at the 2024 Harbour Rugby awards was an awesome achievement and that comes down to the huge group of volunteers that help it all operate. We offer a mix of contact and non-contact options for juniors and plenty of teams to cater for everyone.

Our senior club is strong, having five senior men’s teams and also now offering mid-week rippa rugby for adults which was an awesome initiative from North Harbour Rugby. We can never have too many

What’s a favourite rugby moment for you?

There’s a few that stand out! Going undefeated to win our U85s championship in 2009. it was an unreal year which cemented some of my best friendships to this day. It also led to my first rep selection which was pretty cool.

If you could play another sport, what would it be and why?

I actually can’t think of one that would have

Rory Bowerman

Simon Williamson

CLUB PRESIDENT, NORTHCOTE BIRKENHEAD RUGBY CLUB

Simon is the club president at the Northcote Birkenhead Rugby Club. He’s been serving the community for years both in rugby as well as working for New Zealand Customs before recently retiring. Simon is happily married with three children and four grandchildren, all of them involved in sport in some way. Change is coming for Simon as he retires from his role this year to take up a new role at the North Harbour Rugby Union. He chats to Channel Magazine about the club and what he loves most about the sport that he’s dedicated decades to.

Channel Mag: Have you always played or been involved in rugby? How did you get involved in your club?

Simon Williamson: I began playing rugby at the age of 10, some 57 years ago now and had my first game in Northcote Birkenhead Rugby Club colours at the age of 12. I played for the club into my late 40s (Presidents grade). I’ve also coached and managed rugby at the club. I now sit on its senior board, and will be retiring as president this year (after almost 10 years) to take up that role at the North Harbour Rugby Union.

How would you describe your club and the role it plays in the local community?

Northcote Birkenhead Rugby Club is very much a family-orientated club with generations of players coming through. It serves our local community in providing a social service by creating a healthy environment for children, youth and adults, both male and female, to flourish in.

What are your offerings for juniors and seniors? Do you want new people to join?

Northcote Birkenhead Rugby Club has an active junior and senior club with now 40% player contribution from girls and young women. We are always seeking new players who are welcomed with open arms. We are friendly and believe in forging strong unity amongst players, supporters, sponsors and officials alike.

What’s a favourite rugby moment for you? When I was boy and teenager, my late father used to take me to Eden Park to watch the All Blacks play and I saw some

great players. But my favourite memory is helping co-manage a Northcote Birkenhead Rugby Club Premier 2 side over 10 years, during five of which the team won the North Harbour Premier 2 championship.

If you could play another sport, what would it be and why?

Australian Rules Football. I worked in Sydney for five years out of the New Zealand Consulate office in the late 1990s. I was always impressed with the athleticism and skills that Aussie Rules players displayed and would have loved to have played that game also.

northcoterugby.nz

Simon far left- celebrating success with the Northcote Birkenhead Rugby Club Open men's Sevens side last weekend (8 Feb25) after securing 3rd place at the NZ Club Sevens tournament hosted by Karaka Rugby Club.

Grant Murray

TREASURER, TAKAPUNA RUGBY CLUB

Grant Murray is the treasurer at the Takapuna Rugby Club. He lives in Milford with his partner, Pam. All their boys played for Takapuna and two are now involved in either coaching or an administrative role so rugby is a major part of life at in the Murray family! Eleven of their grandchildren have played or are still playing in junior rugby for Takapuna.

Channel Mag: Have you always played or been involved in rugby? How did you get involved in your club?

Grant Murray: I started paying rugby at age five in Hamilton and first joined Takapuna when my family moved to the North Shore in 1963. I continued playing for the club until the mid-1980s and then 10 years ago started managing our restricted weight Under-85kg team that was being coached by Richard Penberthy. I have been on the committee for six years an am currently our treasurer.

How would you describe your club and the role it plays in the local community?

Takapuna Rugby Club is all about bringing people together to enjoy the game and our

facilities as players, supporters and family. We are an iconic presence on the North Shore with our success on the field and our distinctive octagon shape, perfect for after match functions and as a function venue for our local community. Community spirit and fostering relationships with our neighbours and our local iwi also plays an important role in our club philosophy and mission statement. We are in the process of establishing the Takapuna Rugby Club Foundation and a key role of this will be to support our community financially to participate in and enjoy the game we love. Although not fully up and running yet, the foundation has already donated hundreds of rugby balls to our local schools.

What are your offerings for juniors and seniors? Do you want new people to join?

We offer junior rugby to both girls and boys, contact and non-contact, up to the age of 14 (18 for girls). We cater for our senior players through our premier teams, under-21s, under-85kg and our presidents grade for our social players. We have over 300 junior players and 150 senior players.

What’s a favourite rugby moment for you? I have two favourite rugby moments: Watching John Kirwan score against Italy in

the first game of the first Rugby World Cup in 1987, and beating France to win the World Cup at home in 2011.

If you could play another sport, what would it be and why?

I played cricket all through my schooling, finishing with opening the batting for Westlake’s 1st XI for two years, with no great distinction, and often wished I had carried on playing for longer.

takapunarugby.co.nz

Summer 2024 special

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Free WINZ quotes

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Grant Murray

PHILIPS Zoom Teeth Whitening

By Nova Edgcombe BSc RDH

Healthy smiles, naturally

At Mint Dental Hygiene we believe in oral care that’s science-backed and nature-inspired. That’s why we created Mint Dental toothpaste – a fluoride-free solution that strengthens enamel, reduces sensitivity and enhances your smile.

What makes the difference?

Powered by nano-hydroxyapatite (n-Ha), a cutting-edge remineralising agent, Nano Mint repairs enamel at a molecular level. Hydroxyapatite naturally makes up 97% of enamel and 70% of dentin and bone, playing a vital role in strengthening teeth. Unlike standard hydroxyapatite, which is larger and less effective at filling microcracks, n-Ha mimics natural enamel, allowing for deep repair and lasting protection. Most 'natural' toothpastes only clean the surface. Nano Mint goes further, actively repairing and strengthening teeth without fluoride, harsh abrasives or synthetic additives.

Key benefits:

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Where to buy:

Shop online at mintdentalhygiene.co.nz/mint-dental-hygiene-toothpaste/

Nova Edgcombe BSc, RDH Dental Hygienist

424 Lake Road, Takapuna 021 2306517

By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.

Here at Teresa Burns Hearing, we’re proud to have recently celebrated a major milestone - 10 years of independent hearing care! It’s been an incredible journey, and we’re so grateful for the trust and support of our community along the way.

Looking back on my 30+ years in this career, I feel incredibly lucky to be an audiologist. It’s a privilege to help people rediscover the joys of hearing well and regain confidence and independence. Hearing is so much more than just sound; it keeps us connected, engaged and present in life’s important moments. Modern hearing technology has come such a long way, and I love seeing the difference it can make for people every day.

Some of my favourite moments come from listening to what better hearing means to my clients. Recently, a few people have shared how special it was to hear their cat’s purr again, to fully relax and enjoy their granddaughter’s wedding – including every speech – and to experience the natural sound of their newest hearing aids, which felt more like how they remembered hearing in their younger years. It’s moments like these that remind me why I do what I do.

As we look ahead, I’m excited to continue supporting the North Shore community, now with the help of our newest audiologist, Dr Anne Toth. Having Anne on board means we can offer even more personalised care, ensuring everyone who walks through our doors gets the time, expertise and solutions they need. She’s also been described as a wizard with children, making her a fantastic addition to our team.

At Teresa Burns Hearing, we take pride in offering expert, independent hearing care with your best interests at heart. Whether you’re reconnecting with loved ones, rediscovering the little sounds of everyday life, or simply looking to make conversations easier, we’re here to help you hear your best.

B, Level 1, 25 Apollo Drive, Rosedale

By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist

Over-training

The first couple of months of the year are often a challenge for health and fitness. Many people miss the 'New year, new you' boat and the 'February is the new January' window. This time of year can be the first opportunity to settle into a consistent regime. If your break in routine began before Christmas, it can be tempting to hit March hard.

When you restart your regime it’s important to ease in gently. Exercise is great but it’s possible to have too much of a good thing. Physical activity damages muscle fibres, and rest allows them to recover and reconstruct in stronger formations. So, physical gains actually occur outside of the gym. 'Over-training' is the fancy way of saying 'too much exercise'. It’s an imbalance between work and recovery.

The first sign that you might be over-training is a drop in performance. Physical tasks you could previously handle effortlessly become difficult. The over-trained body loses strength, endurance and coordination. Weights that once felt manageable can feel heavier and a running pace can decline despite consistent effort. You may struggle to maintain form and become progressively slower, weaker and more lethargic.

The second sign is a drop in results. When hormones are operating normally, you’ll find that losing fat and gaining muscle is basically a matter of a healthy diet and healthy activity. Over-training causes hormonal havoc; testosterone plunges, and cortisol rises. This slows down metabolic rate and increases insulin resistance, leading to the body holding tight to fat.

The third sign is an increase in injuries. As you train in an increasingly weakened state you’ll find yourself aggravating old injuries, creating new ones and finding odd aches and pains that won’t go away. It could be poor form, muscle overuse or muscle tightness. It’s probably a combination of all of them, and it means your body is not a comfortable place to be.

The fourth sign is an increase in illnesses. If you’re exercising in a healthy manner you will develop a stronger immune system and will find you don’t get sick too often. However, if you’re over-training you’ll be vulnerable to every bug floating about. Excessive exercise leads to chronic inflammation, which can impair the body’s immune response and slow down recovery from illness. Daylight saving ends soon and before long, the weather will cool and 'flu season begin. This is an important time of year to be resilient.

The fifth sign is a drop in morale. This is no surprise when your performance is going down, your weight is going up and you’re struggling with injuries and illnesses. Sleep can become unsettled, and you’re likely to feel drained and sluggish, both in and out of the gym. At this point, exercise stops elevating your mood, and it’s easy to lose the motivation to move at all.

There are many ways to reduce your risk of over-training beyond looking at your volume of exercise. Your threshold can be pushed out with a focus on foundation habits. Nutrition, hydration, sleep and stress management all have a role to play in how effectively your body recovers from physical exertion.

Want to meet people and be social?

Join in the fun at Takapuna Boating Club, right on Takapuna

Regular fixtures:

Friday draw, dinners, quiz nights, Club Days

All ages welcome

Social and active membership

Social committee

New to the area? Come down and meet new friends

Time on your hands? Lots of opportunities to get involved

Receive 20% off at our member’s bar

Listen to your body to appreciate its capabilities and respect its limitations. The appropriate volume of exercise and recovery practices will help you move towards your goals in a consistent and enjoyable way.

Les Mills Takapuna, Rooftop Level, Shore City, Takapuna 0800 LES MILLS lesmills.co.nz clairebellingham.co.nz claire@clairebellingham.co.nz

39 The Str and, Takapuna Beach, Auckland Phone: 09 489-6941 members@takapunaboating.org.nz takapunaboating.org.nz

By Natasha Geo, Takapuna North Community Trust Manager

We need your help to support a thriving Pupukemoana

If you love Pupukemoana as much as we do, this month we have a range of initiatives you can participate in to help the health of the lake and surrounding waterways.

Killarney Park clean-up

Join your community for our monthly rubbish clean-up of Killarney Park on 23 March.

Unfortunately, rubbish often accumulates in Killarney Park, much of which can end up in Lake Pupuke. This beautiful lake and its surrounding parks are home to native species of birds, fish and eels that rely on a clean environment. Scan the QR code to learn more and sign up.

Restore Together

- Auburn Reserve clean-up

Whether you're a bird lover, conservation enthusiast, or just looking to give back and meet like-minded people, there's a spot for you at Restore Together. In our monthly working bees, we tackle pest plants, clear rubbish and plant trees. If you’re keen, scan the QR code to register.

Check, clean, dry on Pupukemoana

Freshwater pests can be spread by your activities in and around waterways. Right now, we’re trying to keep freshwater gold clam out of Pupukemoana. If you've been in a lake, river, stream or wetland and plan to move to another within 48 hours, you must clean all your gear that has been wet using the 'Check, clean, dry' method. Keep an eye out for our team around Pupukemoana to learn more.

takapunatrust.org.nz

Facebook/Instagram: @TakapunaNorthCommunityTrust office@takapunatrust.org.nz 09 486 2098

Supported by:

By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead

Storm recovery: Conversations worth having

Residents of the East Coast Bays community are invited to listen and share their experiences of storm recovery from the severe weather events of 2023.

LiiFT Aotearoa professional development and training ANCAD offers the not-for-profit community free to subsidised professional development opportunities and training. These take place throughout the year and occur regularly. Check out the dedicated training website found at LiiFT.nz for more information about online and in-person workshops.

Coming up in March:

• 7 March, 9.30am to 2pm. Essential First Aid in-person workshop. Shore Junction, Takapuna. Cost $85. Register on LiiFT.nz

• 11 March, 6.30pm to 7.45pm. On Zoom. Governance Matters session 2: The legal responsibilities of boards. Cost: Free. Register on LiiFT.nz

• 13 March, 9.30am to 2pm. In-person workshop North Auckland venue tba. Introduction to community-led development: Applying the five principles in your place. Cost $95. Register on LiiFT.nz

• 18 March, 12pm to 1pm. On Zoom. Leadership connect. Cost: Free. Register on LiiFT.nz

• 19 March, 12pm to 1pm. On Zoom. Social media essentials 1: Create your ultimate three-month social media content planner. Cost $50. Register on LiiFT.nz

• 25 March, 10am to 11.30am. On Zoom. Volunteering best practice guidelines: recruit and engage volunteers. Cost $45. Register at LiiFT.nz

• 27 March, 6.30pm to 8.30pm Navigating governance: essential skills for NFP leaders. Cost: $45. Register on LiiFT.nz.

For more about what ANCAD is doing and how we can help, visit ancad.org.nz facebook @ancad.org.nz instagram ancadinc

LiiFT Aotearoa, LiiFT.nz

0800 426 223 or info@ancad.org.nz

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Kristin IB Top Scholars celebrated

Our Kristin International Baccalaureate (IB) Top Scholars were acknowledged in February at the IB Top Scholars ceremony held this year at Diocesan School for Girls.

Graduates from the 11 schools that offer the IB Diploma in New Zealand who scored 40 or more points – out of a possible 45 – in their IB Diploma were invited to attend and be deservedly celebrated as IB Top Scholars.

Kristin had the largest contingent of top scholars from the IB schools in New Zealand, with 23 in total, including one student, Nicole Wong, who scored a perfect 45 points, and four students who scored 43 points.

New Zealand Prime Minister, the Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, was in attendance to acknowledge the superb achievements of these top scholars by giving a speech and proudly handing out the awards to the graduates.

Kristin Senior School Principal and chair of the IB Schools Australasia, David Boardman, said, “Achieving an IB Diploma score of 40 points or more places these students at the highest level of IB students from across the world. Kristin performs well above the global averages, and the

strength of our programmes and the preparation that they provide our students is clear when they go on to new challenges in the future. It is with great honour that we acknowledge these outstanding young people, and I know the pride that is shared by their families, their teachers and their communities in what they have achieved.”

Following the ceremony, graduates had the opportunity to take photos with the

Prime Minister, their families and fellow top scholars. Many of these students are now embarking on the next part of their journey at top universities all over the globe. There is no doubt that we will see these remarkable young individuals making their mark on the world in the very near future. Kristin looks forward to seeing many more IB Top Scholars proudly representing our school in 2025 and beyond.

Kristin IB Top Scholars with Prime Minister, the Rt Hon Christopher Luxon

Nicole Wong with Prime Minister, the Rt Hon Christopher Luxon

Nature Space captivates Junior School students

Just a five-minute stroll to the bottom of the school at Kristin sees you enter our magical native bush area bordering the banks of Lucas Creek. This area is very well used by our students across the entire school for Education Outside the Classroom activities such as camping, bush walks and much more.

During late February, while the ‘big kids’ from the Middle and Senior Schools were away on camp, our Junior School students from Years 1-5 took full advantage of this space as part of our bespoke Nature Space initiative, designed to have our young tamariki connect with nature and enjoy our unique bush and wild areas.

A range of activities were set out for them to participate in while immersing themselves in nature. During the bug hunt, students discovered stick insects, beetles, worms and even skink eggs. They created ornate leaf sculptures, observed birds and insects while relaxing in hammocks, and searched for all the colours of the colour wheel and other shapes and objects while on a bush walk. They worked in teams to create games for each other and had to collaborate and cooperate to make bivouacs using only natural materials.

These sessions developed curiosity, confidence, teamwork and a greater love of our natural ecosystems. People who develop

A range of activities were set out for them to participate in while immersing themselves in nature.

a love of nature are more likely to want to protect it, and experiences like these are a way to develop a love for the beautiful natural environment we’re blessed to have right on our campus at Kristin.

Strengthening bonds: Westlake Girls and Ngāti Pāoa

For some time, Westlake Girls has been working closely with our local iwi, Ngāti Pāoa, building our collaborative and reciprocal relationship. This partnership has become even more significant as we prepare to open our new whare.

On Tuesday 23 January, all staff had the privilege of spending the day at Ngāti Pāoa’s Piritahi Marae on Waiheke Island. This wonderful visit further deepened our understanding of one another.

We were welcomed onto the marae with a full pōwhiri. Our te reo kaiako, Maddi Gerbes and Eddie Hudson, played key roles. Maddi delivered a phenomenal karanga, while Eddie’s kōrero beautifully acknowledged the place where we were gathered. At the conclusion of the pōwhiri, all 150 staff members were greeted with a hongi by the tangata whenua – a moving experience that underscored the warmth of our partnership. Ngāti Pāoa also expressed their appreciation for the size of our group and the commitment shown by our school to a genuine and enduring relationship.

Following the pōwhiri and shared kai, we gained deeper insight into the history

and values of Ngāti Pāoa, the significance of the marae’s intricate carvings and artwork, and the meanings behind tikanga and the pōwhiri process. Throughout the day, staff expressed gratitude through waiata sung at key moments.

“The relationship between Ngāti Pāoa and Westlake Girls High School gets stronger and stronger through a commitment to whanaungatanga and manaakitanga.”

Whāia e koe te iti kahurangi ki te tuohu koe, me he maunga teitei.

Pursue excellence – should you stumble, let it be to a lofty mountain.

Drina Paratene, Ngāti Pāoa

Matanga Mātauranga

Our staff has gained a richer understanding of te ao Māori – particularly through the lens of Ngāti Pāoa – and we look forward to nurturing this partnership into the future.

This significant event embodied the essence of whanaungatanga, a guiding principle at our school that emphasises kinship, connection, and the fostering of a strong sense of community. The experience deepened our relationship with Ngāti Pāoa and strengthened the bonds within our school.

Engaging in this cultural exchange reinforced our commitment to building and sustaining meaningful relationships – a cornerstone of the values we uphold at Westlake Girls.

An education at Carmel College

where opportunities and pathways are created for our young women

Our vision is that our students will leave the college empowered to challenge and shape the future while being a woman who lives by our Mercy values, whereby they are compassionate and respectful, where they seek justice for others and herself, and where they have the courage to pursue their ambitions.

Within the school our student leadership team plays a pivotal role in supporting, developing and leading our young women. The team works together and alongside our college community to support, inspire and develop opportunities to build on top of the learning and teaching that exists within the classroom.

Our 2025 student leaders have willingly offered their skills and talents in the service of others. They will build on the legacy of those who have previously served in these positions and they, in turn, will leave their own legacy for others to continue.

OUR 2025 LEADERSHIP TEAM IS:

Head Girls – Chelsea Brown and Lily Dwyer

Heads of Special Character – Kriya D’Sa and Auriel Straka

Heads of Academic – Angela Braganza and Yoana Ho

Heads of Arts & Culture – Helena Lee and Abigail Street

Heads of Council – Tanna van Rensburg and Sophie Barreto

Heads of Sport – Annie Gaylard and Maisey Lendrum

Heads of Alexandra House – Kirsten Barberini and Isabelle Esnouf

Heads of Cecilia Maher – Ruby Railton and Phoenix Rockell

Heads of Justine House – Millie Lloyd and Jane Nolloth

Heads of Kelly House – Eloise Dance and Neve Harvey

Heads of McAuley House – Amber Lee and Georgia Thorpe

Heads of Pompallier House – Ruby Gillum and Amelia Wright

International Student Representative –Jiwon Lee

Board of Trustees Student Representative – Sophie Nehemia

Pasifika Student Representative –

Agatha Godinet

Tu Wahine – Riley Redfern-Hardisty

As our school year begins, and as our young women return, we challenge them to be the best they can be, and to make the most of their time at the college. From the classroom to providing service to others in the wider community, from the arts and cultural stages to the sports courts and fields, our young women need to make the most of each day. The call to challenge comes from Catherine McAuley, to do the ordinary extraordinarily well.

Student leadership team

Another outstanding academic year

Westlake Boys has again raised the bar in academic excellence, achieving 312 scholarships in 2024, including 42 at Outstanding level.

We once again dominated the Top Scholar lists, with:

Three Premier Scholars (Top 12 in NZ) – tied for the most from any school. Well done to Thomas Raybould (five Outstanding, two Scholarship, Top in Economics), Mason Drylie (four Outstanding, two Scholarship, Top in Media Studies for the second successive year, Art History & Religious

Studies) and Devin Shen (four Outstanding, four Scholarship).

Eight students were awarded Top in Subject – the most from any school (the next highest was two).

Nine Outstanding Scholars (Top 55 in NZ) – tied most from any school. Well done to Alan Bailey, Sam Dawson, Alex Ivanov, Morgan Burke-Kennedy, Simon Zhao, Ubeen Sim, Marc Leslie, Daniel Seo and Ethan Chong.

Six students from the Premier and Top in Subject lists will be invited to the Prime Minister’s Scholarship Awards Ceremony at

Parliament later this year.

Headmaster Mr Paul Fordham congratulated our students and staff, saying, “We can take a lot of pride from this. Another year that reflects the effort and ability of our boys, supported by our dedicated and passionate staff. A special acknowledgment to Ms Carla Boniolo, who leads the programme, with the support of Mrs Becky O'Gram – well done to you both!"

On Monday 17 February we held a Scholars' Assembly to acknowledge all the academic successes of our students.

Congratulations to our student leaders

Our new student leaders for 2025 were announced at assembly in February.

We would like to congratulate:

Head Boy - Constantine Mataafa

Deputy Head Boys - Travis Findlay and Aaron Shi

Academic Captain - Aryan Thakkar

Music and Culture Captain - Matt Donaldson

Te Manutaki Māori - Joshua Glackin

Service Captain - Max Mitchell

Sports Captain - Ollie Davies

Mr Fordham congratulated our head boy, saying, "He's going to do a fantastic job for us this year.”

In his first address to students, our new student leader said it was “... truly humbling to represent a school like Westlake Boys.

“In this role, I am constantly reminded of our purpose – to represent and advocate for all aspects of Westlake life.”

Head Boy Constantine Mataafa addresses our students at assembly.

First eight wins Head of Harbour race

You cannot beat a sunny day at Lake Pupuke with all Auckland schools competing over 1000m in front of a crowded bank of spectators, and alumni.

It was a great day for Westlake crews across all age groups. Lake Pupuke is the home ground for the Red Swan.

The evening before, a Westlake Alumni rowing reunion and boat naming event had taken place on the lake banks to celebrate the past 60 years of rowing at Westlake. It was therefore fitting to see the first eight take line honours in the last

race of the day to win the “The Head of Harbour" trophy.

St Kentigern College brought back the tradition of bagpiping their crew down to the water.

On Westlake’s first eight winning the final race, the boys celebrated their peers’ efforts by performing our school haka .

Thank you alumni, supporters, teachers and boys for coming down to support the rowers.

Under-18 eight - First: George Langley, Sam Bird, Donovan Pivac, Jack Buckley,

Whakatau for our new Headmaster

Westlake Boys held a whakatau for our new Headmaster Mr Paul Fordham at the start of the school year. The welcoming ceremony was attended by staff, students, guests, and Mr Fordham's whānau.

Matua Jordan Tua opened proceedings, and Matua Johnny Waititi led the school in singing the waiata tautoko, Rangitoto te Maunga.

In his address, Mr Fordham shared his deep connection to the community, having been born at North Shore Hospital, raised

on the Shore, and educated at local schools before attending Westlake.

"I take great pride in serving others and celebrating their achievements. Being a headmaster is an excellent opportunity to do just that – support and guide those in our school community. To be entrusted with this role at my alma mater, the best school in the country, is an immense honour."

Mr Fordham outlined his commitment to maintaining the school’s high standards,

ensuring it remains a place of excellence, care, and innovation.

"Education in New Zealand is at a crossroads. Academic achievement is not where it should be, recruiting and retaining staff is challenging, and attendance remains an issue. We must value what we have here and work together to ensure we continue to thrive," he said.

"Wishing you all the best for the year ahead. I look forward to sharing the journey with you."

Our new Headmaster talks to his son and, right, the Fordham whānau after the Whakatau.

The First eight won the final Head of Harbour race at Lake Pupuke.

Adam Leece, Toby Cleghorn, Otto Gartner, Dylan Henderson and Flynn Wigglesworth. We now look ahead to Maadi Cup.

Dux announced at Rosmini College

In an unprecedented situation at Rosmini College, the school found itself unable to distinguish a Dux among eight equally performing students at the end of the 2024 school year.

In light of this unique challenge, the decision was made to defer the selection of Dux and Proxime Accessit until after the external exam results were released. Congratulations to Dux Ron Liwanag, and to Proxime Accessit Gyann Grepo – both outstanding academic students, but also young men who participated in many different aspects of school life.

Athletics Day

Athletics Day at Rosmini College was a vibrant celebration, marking a successful first combined event for both the intermediate and senior school. The crowd was adorned in their house colours, which encouraged lively cheers and chants. The top athletes are now gearing up to represent the school at the North Harbour competition in March.

Irish Rosminian visits Auckland

Rosmini College was honoured to welcome Father Joe O'Reilly, Administer General of the Rosminian Order, to the school recently.

Father Joe was a special guest at assembly in the morning where he spoke to the students about his life working in a school for the blind, and working with young people in trouble with the law. He reiterated the message that as Rosminians they should strive to contribute to society and be charitable to those in need.

Catholic Character leaders gave Father Joe a tour of the school, before sharing the work the school does in the area of service, as well as unique aspects of Rosmini College.

Father Joe was particularly interested in the Māori culture at Rosmini and in New Zealand, and was surprised by a haka to conclude his visit.

Dux - Ron Liwanag

Proxime Accessit - Gyann Grepo

NZQA Scholarship results

‘He Toa Takatini’ sits proudly on our school crest alongside Per Angusta, Ad Augusta. This is derived from the whakatauki which is translated to "success is not the work of an individual, but the work of many".

Our great academic results in 2024 reflect the effort and ability of our students, who are supported by our wonderful teachers in the classroom and their whānau at home.

Our Scholarship results were a particular standout in 2024. Only the top 3% of 170 000 students across New Zealand gain a Scholarship. We saw an increase in achievement of 45% over our 2023 results. These results included:

Amelia Yamaguchi

Top Scholar Award, 1st in Japanese

Daniel Wang Scholarships in Chinese, Economics & English

Bill An Scholarships in Accounting, History & Statistics

Mia Sheng Scholarships in Calculus, Chemistry & Physics

Wei Wang Scholarships in Calculus, Chemistry & Physics.

TGS IB Top Scholars

2024 was a very successful year that saw our International Baccalaureate Diploma programme students at Takapuna Grammar School achieve fantastic results. Four of our students scored over 40 points, out of a total of 45, placing them in the top 10% of IB students worldwide.

These students were acknowledged with a New Zealand IB Top Scholars Award on Saturday 1 February, presented by The Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand.

Sam Moffitt gained 43 points and is starting a Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne. His academic accolades have made him the recipient of a Florence Clucas Entrance Exhibition Scholarship to St Hilda's Residential College.

Two of our students scored 41 points, Yolanda Chai and Daniel Li. Daniel is also at the University of Melbourne, studying a Bachelor of Biomedicine. He feels that the rigorous curriculum of the IB has equipped him with critical thinking and

time management skills, which are being invaluable in managing the demands of the Biomedicine programme. Upon completing his degree, he aspires to pursue a career in medical research, focusing on neuroscience.

Emma Lenz gained a score of 40 points, and is about to begin a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Biomedical Science, at the University of Auckland.

Amelia Yamaguchi

Bill An

Daniel Wang

Mia Sheng

Wei Wang

Rangitoto College reaches new heights

Rangitoto College reached new heights with largest number of NZQA scholarships attained in New Zealand. Rangitoto College scholarship students received an incredible 324 NZQA scholarships in 2024. These remarkable scholarship recipients achieved an astonishing 32 passes at Outstanding level. These accolades amount to the highest number of scholarships ever attained by a New Zealand school. Congratulations to all our NZQA Scholarship winners.

Our 2024 NCEA Dux, Lianne Kim, earned 10 scholarships, with seven at Outstanding level. This sees Lianne receive one of only 12 Premier Awards in the country. The college also saw two Year 10 students receiving scholarships, 23 Year 11 students receiving 32 scholarships, 67 Year 12 students receiving 111 scholarships and 89 Year 13 students receiving a total of 180 scholarships.

In addition to Leanne Kim’s phenomenal success, nine other Rangitoto students received an NZQA Outstanding Scholar award.

Outstanding Recipients

Year 13

Lianne Kim

Hanxi (Hedy) Yang

Olesya Korchagina

Joey Wong

Guancheng (John) Cai

Layla Clarke

Year 12

Taein Jung

Joshua Lo

Leo Wang

Year 11

Joshua Wang

Beyond these results, Year 12 student Alan Sun passed eight scholarships along with Benjamin Lee who also received eight. We look forward to seeing what 2025 brings for these scholars.

This milestone also marks the fifth time Rangitoto College has led New Zealand in scholarship passes with successes across 27 subjects in 2024. Indeed, across the 29 subjects entered, Rangitoto College attained eight percent of all scholarships available nationwide. The college also gained the most across each of the years from 2018 to 2022.

Once again, our results place our kura as one of the leading academic schools in New Zealand.

These accomplishments were celebrated at our Scholars Awards evening, where students, teachers, and whānau were welcomed to celebrate the incredible effort and hard work that went into attaining these results. They are a testament to their dedication, hard work, and perseverance. We remain immensely proud of our fantastic and talented akonga.

Rangitoto College volleyball wins gold for the third year in a row

Once again Rangitoto College started the year gaining outstanding results at the beach volleyball national championships.

For the third year in a row, our senior girls are national champions taking out the gold! The team of Devyn Golaboski and Jasmine Rugg dominated the competition, by playing exceptional beach volleyball and tactically outwitting their opponents. Their finesse on the sand was appreciated by their whānau and spectators supporting them.

Joschua Schaller and Kenai Stevenson gained a silver medal in the senior boy’s division. They played some excellent volleyball, keeping the crowd cheering with their winning hits, tricky ball placement and agility on the court.

In the year 11 girls’ competition, Zaria Ruby and Kyra O’Shannessey played a hardfought final to gain a silver medal, through their active defence and leaving everything on the sand. Sienna Hickling-Crane and

Molly Caunce won a bronze medal in the same competition, by dominating their opponents with clever shots and fantastic serving.

We are grateful to our coaches Adam Watson and Johann Timmer for supporting all of our players through multiple training sessions over the summer and at the matches. Thanks also to Alan Kerr, Sharon Redpath and Sam Bell for all they do behind the scenes.

Year 11 student invited to the World Amateur Golf Ranking

Year 11 student Juwon Kim has secured an invitation to the WAAP due to her outstanding performance at the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR).

The championship will take place in Vietnam and offers competitors the opportunity to qualify for some of the most iconic tournaments in women's golf, including three major championships. Congratulations, Juwon!

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Proud to publish Channel Magazine for the North Shore

The 'New Zealand Listener' and the North Shore, 1939-1959 – Part One

By David Verran

First published on 30 June 1939, copies of the first 20 years of the 'New Zealand Listener' will soon be available on the Papers Past website. The National Broadcasting Service and the National Commercial Broadcasting Service were formed in 1936 and combined in 1945 as the New Zealand Broadcasting Service. In 1962, this became the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation. In the 1939 to 1959 period, the Broadcasting Service managed all radio stations in New Zealand, except for a small one in Dunedin, and its 'Listener' was the only source for radio programming. The British Broadcasting Corporation's 'Listener' started in 1929.

The 'Listener' was (and is) highly regarded for its music, art, book and film reviews, interviews, reprints of broadcasts, poems and short stories, and as a forum for discussion of current social, political and cultural issues. It was first edited by Oliver Duff (1883-1967) and from 1949 by Monte Holcroft (1902-1993), who was to edit the 'Listener' for over 18 years.

The 'Listener' was (and is) highly regarded for its music, art, book and film reviews, interviews, reprints of broadcasts, poems and short stories…

Arthur Rex Dugard Fairburn (1904-1957) and family lived at 7 King Edward Parade in Devonport, and particularly from 1947 he regularly contributed music, art and other reviews to the 'Listener', along with comments on contemporary issues. His 'Poem on the advantages of living at the Remuera end of the North Shore, or see Devonport and fry' mentions ferries, Takarunga/Mount Victoria, local boating, the golf course, the two 'pubs', fishing from the wharf and the Naval Base. It was first published posthumously in 1958, in the collection 'Poetry harbinger' with Denis Glover.

Janet Frame's (1924-2004) first published work was her short story 'University Entrance', in the 'Listener' of 22 March 1946, and her 'The lagoon and other stories' was reviewed by Frank Sargeson (1903-1982) in the 18 April 1952 issue. However, they didn't meet until March 1955 and soon after she boarded with Sargeson at 14 Esmonde Road, Takapuna for around 16 months. Sargeson lived there from 1931 until his death and was first published in the 'Listener' on 15 November 1940, with his short story 'Big ben'.

While living in Takapuna, Frame's 'I got a shoes' short story was published in the 2 November 1956 issue and she was able to work on

her first novel 'Owls do cry', which was reviewed in the 31 May 1957 issue. Her poem ‘The road to Takapuna’ was published in the literary periodical ‘Mate' in 1964.

Amongst others mentored by Sargeson at his Takapuna property, and contributors to the 'Listener', were Maurice Duggan (1922-1974), Kevin Ireland (1933-2023), Graeme Lay (1944-), Bruce Mason (1921-1982), R.A.K. Mason (1905-1971) and C.K. Stead (1932-). Allen Curnow's (1911-2001) first published review was in the 1 August 1941 issue.

However, in the 1939-1959 period there are only four major 'Listener' articles featuring the North Shore, with three of those about the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

david.verran@xtra.co.nz

channelmag.co.nz

34-0388, compliments of Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections. Frank Sargeson in 1946.

Why are so many young Kiwis considering a move to Oz?

By Ellie Brown

We live in paradise here on the North Shore, right? So why do many of our young locals consider a move to Australia? Is a move to Oz on the cards for you?

Alright, let's dive into why heaps of young Kiwis are packing their bags and heading over to Australia. As a student in my early twenties in my final year at Auckland University, I'm starting to think about my post-grad options. I've seen a bunch of my mates make the move, and it's a pretty hot topic around campus. So, here's my take on the whole situation, with a couple of positives and negatives thrown in for good measure.

First off, one of the biggest reasons young Kiwis are moving to Australia is the better job opportunities. It's no secret that the job market in New Zealand can be a bit tough, especially for fresh grads. Over in Australia, the economy is booming, and there are more jobs available, often with higher wages. For a lot of us, the idea of earning more money doing the same job is pretty appealing. Plus, with the cost of living being relatively cheaper in some Aussie cities, it feels like a win-win situation.

Another major drawcard is the lifestyle and climate. Let's be real, New Zealand winters can be pretty brutal, especially if you're not a fan of the cold. Australia, on the other hand, offers a much warmer climate, with places like Brisbane and Perth boasting sunny weather almost all year round

The laid-back Aussie lifestyle, with its beautiful beaches and vibrant city life, is a huge attraction for young Kiwis looking for a change of scenery and a bit more excitement in their day-to-day lives. But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. One of the downsides of moving to Australia is the distance from family and friends. Sure, it's

just a hop across the ditch, but flights can be expensive, and it's not always easy to pop back home for a weekend visit. For a lot of us, the thought of missing out on family gatherings, birthdays, and just the everyday moments with our loved ones can be pretty tough. It's a big trade-off, and not everyone is ready to make that sacrifice.

Another negative point is the cultural differences. While Kiwis and Aussies share a lot in common, there are still some noticeable differences that can take a bit of getting used to. The Aussie sense of humour, for example, can be a bit more in-your-face compared to the more laid-back Kiwi style. Plus, there's the whole rivalry thing – being a

Kiwi in Australia means you're bound to cop a bit of friendly banter, especially when it comes to sports. For some, this can be a fun part of the experience, but for others, it can feel a bit isolating.

In the end, the decision to move to Australia is a personal one, and it really depends on what you're looking for in life. For some, the promise of better job prospects and a sunnier lifestyle is enough to make the leap. For others, the thought of leaving behind family and adjusting to a new culture is a bit too daunting. Whatever the case, it's clear that the trend of young Kiwis moving to Australia isn't slowing down anytime soon.

So, there you have it – a bit of a rundown on why so many young Kiwis are making the move across the ditch. Whether you're considering it yourself or just curious about the trend, it's always good to weigh up the pros and cons before making such a big decision.

Channel Mag's youth contributors, Fantasia Nair and Ellie Brown bring a fresh monthly feature to our pages to inspire and advise our younger North Shore readers. If there are any topics you'd like to read about, contact Liz at liz@channelmag.co.nz, and our fledgling writers will research and write engaging articles specifically for our younger (at heart) readers.

with Lindsay Knight

Superb performance by the women’s rep team

A superb performance by the women’s representative team capped Bowls North Harbour’s success in hosting the Octagonal inter-centre tournament at Browns Bay last month.

Other than singles specialist Millie Nathan, every one of the Harbour ladies had the distinction of going through the seven rounds of the competition without defeat. The Sheryl Wellington-skipped four of Colleen Rice, Robyne Walker, and Keiko Kurohara and Theresa Rogers sharing the lead position won all seven matches.

And the pair of Wendy Jensen and Lauren Mills had only one blemish in their seven matches, a draw in the opening round.

Millie won four of her seven matches, battling on the first day for only one win. But she recovered splendidly on the second day, winning all three matches, including beating the two most recent national singles champions, Counties-Manukau’s Leanne Poulson and Waikato’s Deb White.

There were good reasons, though, for Millie’s mixed results. The singles position in any bowls team event always involves the most pressure and Millie had the added handicap of having to use borrowed bowls, those of her old Birkenhead club-mate, Trish Croot.

Unfortunately, the custom-made bowls with which Millie won the world champion of champion singles title while representing Tonga have been lost as a result of her car having been stolen. The car has been recovered but not the bowls, which obviously had considerable emotional value.

The team performance gained even further plaudits with so many of the centre’s top bowlers, the likes of Black Jack Selina Goddard and multiple centre champions Elaine McClintock and Lisa Dickson, unavailable for various reasons.

Unfortunately, disappointing results from the men’s premier team meant Harbour missed out to Auckland on the overall premier title, and

something similar happened for the centre’s teams at the development tournament which was held at the same time at Howick.

Harbour’s men’s team, boosted by such experienced bowlers as Brian Wilson and Peter Nathan, also topped their competition, but the women’s team, despite Adele Ineson performing well in the singles, didn’t quite recover from a slow first day.

They did much better on the second day to move up to fifth place, but not quite enough to prevent Auckland winning overall. It was, though, a creditable effort as the playing depth was stretched as some of those who had been mainstays of earlier development squads had to be promoted to the premier team.

The Octagonal tournaments involved the centres in the top half of the North Island: Auckland, North Harbour, Counties-Manukau, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Thames Valley, Northland and Far North. The latter, though, could not field premier teams and its place was taken by a Pacific Barbarians team, which included several top Auckland bowlers including a former Back Jack Jamie Hill.

This had two benefits: It avoided a bye and it was an excellent promotion for a community where bowls is becoming increasingly popular.

The next test for both Harbour bowlers and selectors will be the national inter-centre sevens which will be held in Wellington on 13-15 March. It will be interesting in the intervening period to see what changes, if any, are made to the respective lime-ups.

The hosting of the Octagonal premier event was another plus mark for the Browns Bay club and its energetic president, Peter Sheehan. Already this season the club has hosted the Masters, a world championship, the nationals and the Octagonal tournament, with its greens and facilities widely acclaimed.

bowlsnorthharbour.com

Bowls North Harbour Women’s Premier Representative team. From left to right, back row: Millika Nathan, Lauren Mills, Neil Connell (Coach/Manager); Front row: Colleen Rice, Robyne Walker, Wendy Jensen, Theresa Rogers, Sheryl Wellington, Keiko Kurohara.

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Olympic champions for lunch; Dame Susan for brekky; celebrating 30 years of AIMES Awards

The North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust is celebrating its 30th year in 2025. The highlight of the year is the 30th AIMES Awards Gala Dinner in May. There is also plenty happening in terms of business breakfasts and charity lunches.

OLYMPIC LUNCH – Wednesday 26 March

This is going to be an extraordinary OLYMPIC-sized lunch! The Lexus of North Shore Olympic Lunch will feature seven AIMES Awards alumni who competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics, including gold medalists! These seven are Alicia Hoskin, Cameron Gray, Jo Aleh, Molly Meech, Olivia McTaggart, Tara Vaughan and Zoe Hobbs.

The lunch will be hosted by Mike Stanley CNZM, CEO at AUT Millennium, celebrated games rower and long-time sports administrator. Mike has been a huge supporter of the North Harbour Club for decades.

Lexus of North Shore Olympic Lunch - Wednesday 26 March, from 11.45am North Harbour Stadium, Albany Bookings at northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE NETWORK (BEN) BREAKFAST

DAME SUSAN DEVOY – Tuesday 29 April

The celebrated former world champion squash player and community advocate will be an interesting guest speaker at this April North Harbour Club BEN breakfast.

As well as dominating the world squash scene over a decade or more (four world titles and eight British Open titles), Dame Susan has gone on to make a significant contributions in public life. She is passionate about social justice, serving as Race Relations Commissioner for five years, not being afraid to address issues such as cultural unity and anti-discrimination.

She has recently released a book covering her remarkable life, titled Dame Suzy D: My Story. BEN Breakfast – Tuesday 29 April, from 7am Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna Bookings at northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz.

30th AIMES Awards Gala Dinner – Saturday 24 May

Due to very strong ticket sales this massive celebration of three decades of AIMES Awards Gala Dinners has been moved to a bigger venue. At the time of going to press there were still tickets available, but this will sell out.

Back in 2015 the twentieth Gala Dinner attracted 600 people to the Cordis Hotel in the city. It was a magnificent event – two decades of rewarding excellence were celebrated in style. Ten years on, this ‘Gatsby and Pearl’ themed event is shaping up to be even bigger! 30th AIMES Awards Gala Dinner – Saturday 24 May, from 6pm Shed 10, The Viaduct, Auckland City Bookings at northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz

Alicia Hoskin Cameron Gray Jo Aleh Molly Meech Olivia McTaggart Tara Vaughan Zoe Hobb

Tammy is the Managing Director at Davenports Law and leads the Trust Law and Wealth Protection team. She is a trust and asset structuring specialist with over 25 years legal experience specialising in the areas of personal asset planning, trust law and Property (Relationships) Act. She enjoys providing clients with advice and assistance on a broad range of issues involving the structuring and establishment of asset plans, interpretation of trust deeds, the management and administration of trust funds and trust disputes. An important part of Tammy’s practice is reviewing existing asset holding structures to ensure they achieve the needs and requirements they were established to meet. She is also experienced in Property (Relationships) Act issues and advises clients on both contracting out agreements and separation. She is only one of a handful of lawyers nationally who specialise solely in the area of trusts and asset planning, and is one of the leading lawyers in her field. Tammy is a past president of the Auckland Women Lawyers’ Association and past vice-president of the North Harbour Club, a charitable organisation on the North Shore. Tammy is a member of The Law Association Continuing Legal Education and Committee and is on the panel of interviewers for those looking to practice on their own account for the New Zealand Law Society.

Expect the unexpected in family trusts

Alex and Sam had a blended family, each with children from their first relationships. They had a very successful business and several investment properties, all held within their trust. The advice at the time was to each establish their own trusts so they could separately provide for their respective children, but they were very confident that the children got on well together and that it was going to be a lot simpler to have everything in one trust.

Alex and Sam felt like they worked as a team with their advisors to achieve the best for their families. They often talked about the “worst case scenario” and Alex and Sam felt that their structure and documentation provided for anything life might throw their way. Above all, they took comfort in the strong bond they shared with their kids.

Over the years there had been considerable income flow through the trust. The trust had been able to pay for university fees for the three out of four children who attended. They had always maximised the tax flexibility of their trust, flowing income to the children to pay for these things and allocating a bit more to get the best tax results which were allowable under the tax rules relating to trusts. Sam’s younger daughter, Maddy, hadn’t gone to university but they still had allocated income to her to achieve a good tax outcome.

Alex and Sam had a friend who was an independent trustee of the trust. Although she had a busy schedule, they could always rely on her to sign the necessary documents.

They didn’t have trustee meetings but thought that as everything was so relatively straightforward, they didn’t really need them. She signed the accounts each year, but they didn’t review them together.

Then things went sour with Maddy. Maddy had a new partner, Cam, who neither Alex nor Sam particularly liked. They thought he was a bad influence on Maddy – he seemed to be very negative and combative, always looking for the worst and trying to cause an argument. Cam would often comment about the other children in a negative way and when Sam tried to talk to Maddy about this, she was very defensive of him. Things escalated one night when Cam started asking questions about the trust and the benefits the other children had received.

A week later Sam received an email from Maddy. While it came from her, it read as if she had taken legal advice. The email asked for financial information about the trust, in particular asking questions about the benefits the other children had received. A very distraught Alex and Sam made a time to see their lawyer.

The lawyer firstly gave some information around the kinds of information that beneficiaries could request under the Trusts Act. She

also looked at the most recent financial statements to the trust. Having a look at the beneficiary current accounts, she noted that Maddy was owed $250,525 by the trust, being income which had been allocated to her over the years, but not actually paid out. The lawyer said that this was a real debt owed by the trust to Maddy and that she could technically demand payment at any time. There were also potential tax issues with Maddy being considered a settlor of the trust because of the amount owed to her by the trust.

This was extremely distressing to Alex and Sam. In any other circumstances they would have been able to explain to Maddy how the allocation had operated and that the funds could be used to benefit her over time. However, knowing the headspace that she was in now, who knew where this might end up.

While Alex and Sam had been confident with the way their trust and family dynamics worked, it only took one incident for things to be turned on its head. There were solutions to this family drama, but it would take some solid advice and time to solve it.

If you feel you could use some specialist advice for your personal situation contact our Trusts & Wealth Protection team.

Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law

CRAFTED LEGAL ADVICE FOR PEACE OF MIND.

Family Trusts. Changing Family Dynamics.

Many families establish trusts with the best of intentions. Providing financial security, protecting assets, and ensuring fairness among beneficiaries. However, even the most well-structured trusts can face unexpected challenges, especially when family dynamics change over time.

Without clear communication, regular professional oversight, and proper documentation, what once seemed like a straightforward and fair arrangement can quickly become a legal and financial headache, as well as an emotional strain on family relationships.

A trust is only as strong as its structure and management. Ensure yours is prepared for the unexpected—contact our Trusts & Wealth Protection Team for expert advice today.

Bellingham Wallace becomes member firm of Andersen Global

A Game Changing New Chapter for Professional Business Advisory Services in New Zealand

Effective 10 March 2025, Bellingham Wallace, a wellestablished business advisory firm based in Parnell that has strong links to the North Shore through Directors Matt Bellingham and Mike Atkinson, has officially rebranded as Andersen in New Zealand upon joining Andersen Global as a full member firm.

This transition marks a pivotal moment in the firm’s evolution, reflecting both the expansion of its capabilities and its ongoing commitment to providing high-quality advisory services while upholding its core values of excellence. Matt Bellingham, co-founder of Bellingham Wallace says that “after almost three years collaborating with Andersen Global, it was an absolute no-brainer to join the fold and bring this iconic brand back to the forefront of professional services in New Zealand. The depth of support, knowledge, global reach and family values are second to none and can only benefit our clients.”

in New Zealand access to global resources, expertise and best practices, allowing the firm to provide comprehensive and innovative solutions to its clients. Director Serjit Singh says, “I am super excited to tap into the wealth of global subject matter expertise in Andersen and apply this locally for the benefit of our clients. Together we can achieve so much more.”

Despite the rebranding, Andersen in New Zealand remains an independent, locally owned professional services firm. This position enables the firm to combine its deep knowledge of the New Zealand market with the global reach and capabilities of Andersen Global, offering clients a balanced and strategic approach.

The Andersen brand, along with the service excellence and client experience associated with it, needs no introduction and I’m proud to be part of the journey in bringing it back to life in New Zealand. It really is a step change in the professional services sector that we need.

- Aaron Wallace, Director.

A Legacy of excellence

Founded in 2012 by Matt Bellingham and Aaron Wallace, the firm has been a leader in delivering business advisory, tax advisory and growthpartner services. Over the years, the firm has developed a reputation for delivering exceptional service to the SME sector. Beyond accounting, they have guided businesses through complex financial challenges and facilitated sustainable growth.

Global reach, local expertise

Becoming a member firm of Andersen Global offers the firm a unique opportunity to connect its clients to an expanded set of service offerings from the members of the global association. Andersen Global is a distinguished international association of independent member firms comprising tax, legal, and valuation professionals worldwide. Membership in this prestigious association gives Andersen

Andersen in New Zealand’s client success stories speak volumes, from securing significant trade finance extensions, acting as interim CFO for companies (overseeing financial strategy, operations and reporting), through to mentoring company financial controllers. The Andersen team remains dedicated to delivering personalised, clientfocused services, ensuring clients continue to receive the highest standards of support and guidance.

Commitment to the SME market

One of the key strengths of the firm remains its unwavering dedication to the SME market, and this focus will continue under the Andersen in New Zealand brand. This experienced team recognises the unique challenges faced by SMEs and has developed specialised solutions tailored to meet these needs, from bookkeeping and KPI reporting through to financial recruitment selections and securing working capital funding. This commitment will remain a central priority, enabling Andersen in New Zealand to support SMEs in navigating the increasingly competitive and globalised business landscape.

A promising future

Director, Mike Atkinson, expressed his enthusiasm about the firm’s future, stating, “Becoming a member firm of Andersen Global reflects our continued dedication to excellence and our client-centric approach. The added global muscle and resources of the global organisation will enhance our ability to meet the evolving needs of our team and clients more effectively into the future.”

The adoption of the Andersen brand heralds a new era for professional services in New Zealand. This strategic development positions this specialised team for sustained growth and success, ensuring clients receive the highest level of expertise and guidance in an ever-changing business environment.

470 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland

09 309 7851 nz.Andersen.com

Aaron Wallace, Mike Atkinson, Matt Bellingham, Serjit Singh

Aimee is passionate about a career in family and employment law, and brings to the role her love for people. Aimee enjoys connecting with clients and guiding them through some of the trickiest times they will likely face.

Unjustifiably dismissed?

Not if you earn $180k or above

In November 2024, as part of the Act-National coalition agreement, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden announced Cabinet’s approval of a significant amendment to the Employment Relations Act 2000. Under this new policy, employees earning a yearly salary that surpasses $180,000 cannot raise a personal grievance for unjustified dismissal. Once in effect, employers will be able to dismiss highincome employees without just process or good cause: “at will”, so to speak. Despite this new policy, where the ability to contest termination is to be limited, protections against other forms of workplace misconduct and unfair treatment will remain in place.

Approximately 3.4% of New Zealand's workforce is above the $180,000 income threshold. The $180,000 figure refers solely to an employee’s base salary and does not include additional income such as bonuses, incentives, or benefits like vehicle use. If you are a part-time employee, regardless of your pro-rated earnings, you are not subject to this threshold.

While the amendment may seem radical at face value, employees earning above this threshold will retain their right to raise other types of personal grievances. These include claims such as unjustified disadvantage, discrimination, sexual or racial harassment, and breaches of good faith. Australia has also had a similar policy in place for some time, bringing New Zealand’s employment framework more closely in line with theirs. Australia’s income threshold for unjustified dismissal claims is currently $175,000 AUD per year and is subject to annual adjustments.

The primary motivation for this legislative change is to provide businesses with greater flexibility, particularly when managing specialist and senior leadership roles. According to Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden, the policy ensures employers can place the right person in a high-income role without having to worry about the process otherwise expected for a dismissal.

This amendment offers flexibility for employees too when it comes to negotiating the terms of their employment agreements. While the amendment will apply to existing employment agreements, employers and employers can choose to opt back into the unjustified dismissal protection or negotiate their own dismissal process. It is further anticipated that high-income employees will seek to negotiate robust contractual terms to safeguard their interests. This may involve seeking longer notice periods, defined severance packages, or clear protocols for performance management. The onus will then be on employers to be prepared to engage in these negotiations, ensuring that employment agreements are clear and mutually beneficial.

It will be interesting to observe how the introduction of the $180,000 income threshold for unjustified dismissal claims affects New Zealand’s labour market once in place. It will become more important than ever to ensure that employment agreements are carefully negotiated and well-drafted to provide appropriate protections for both parties.

Schnauer & Co, 1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna 09 486 0177

schnauer.com

Navigating life's transitions:

The Kristin School journey

In the heart of Albany, Kristin School stands as a beacon of holistic education, guiding students through life's many transitions with a unique blend of vision, integrity and love. This independent, co-educational institution has been at the forefront of New Zealand's education sector for over five decades, offering a comprehensive learning experience from early learning to Year 13.

At Kristin, transition is not viewed as a single event but as a complex, ongoing process that touches every aspect of school life. From the first steps into Little Doves to the final strides across the graduation stage, students and their families embark on a journey filled with multiple transition points.

Kristin's commitment to progress is evident in our approach to transitions. The school's Korowai Ako, or Cloak of Learning, wraps around students, providing a framework that nurtures the whole person through five core strategies. This visionary approach ensures that as students move through different stages – be it from the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) to the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), NCEA or the IB Diploma programme or from Little Doves, to Kindergarten, to Junior School, Middle School and Senior School; they are equipped with the tools to embrace change and thrive.

Kristin's transition strategy is not just about moving from one year level to another; it's about empowering individuals…

Kristin recognises that managing transitions is vital for mental health and actively works to mitigate stressors that can lead to feelings of rootlessness or difficulties in forming identity. By offering bespoke workshops, buddy systems and orientation programmes, Kristin demonstrates its commitment to honest and principled support for its community.

Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Kristin's approach to transitions is the emphasis on love and compassion. The school's Christian values foster an inclusive environment where every individual is valued and supported. This loving approach is particularly evident in the way Kristin facilitates connections between students and parents across the school continuum, creating a strong support network that eases the transition process.

Kristin's approach to transitions has earned it a strong global reputation. Kristin's transition strategy is not just about moving from one year level to another; it's about empowering individuals with the skills to navigate life's changes. The school's commitment to supporting students through every step of their journey is reflected in our students' impressive academic achievements, including a 100% pass rate in the IB Diploma, 96% in NCEA Level 3 and 97% of students achieving University Entrance in 2024.

In a world of constant change, Kristin stands as a steadfast companion, ensuring every transition becomes an opportunity for growth, learning and personal development. It's not just about education; it's about preparing for life's journey with confidence, compassion and a wholehearted sense of self.

Kim Green Kristin Executive Principal

By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation

Join our Takapuna Beach Walk to support dialysis patients at North Shore Hospital

Local North Shore resident Miguel knows first-hand the challenges of living with kidney disease, due to the fact the condition requires dialysis treatment three times a week at North Shore Hospital. Now he is on a mission to give back to the dialysis unit and fellow dialysis patients by raising funds for an ice machine.

Thirst is a common symptom for patients undergoing dialysis, as they often have to restrict their fluid intake. Sucking on ice provides much-needed relief, especially during hot weather. In addition, dialysis patients can also suffer hematomas, and ice helps to reduce swelling and ease pain, making an ice machine a crucial addition to the dialysis unit.

Miguel’s journey with kidney disease began in 1973 when, at age six, a virus affected his kidneys. In 1975, his mother donated a kidney, and the transplant changed his life, allowing him to pursue his passion for dance.

A natural performer, Miguel’s love for dance took him to great heights. He worked in film and entertainment while enjoying good health until 1985, when he became ill again. His sister then stepped forward to donate a second kidney, allowing him to continue his acting and dancing career. However, in 2000, his health declined once more, and he returned to dialysis. A third transplant in 2011 unfortunately did not succeed, leaving him reliant on dialysis ever since. Despite these challenges, Miguel remains active, walking 2–3km daily and embracing every moment. Understanding the struggles of fellow patients, he hopes this fundraiser will make treatment more comfortable for those in our community undergoing dialysis treatment.

Please join us for the ‘Walk to Quench Thirst’ along Takapuna Beach on Saturday 9 March at 9.30am ahead of World Kidney Day. Simply make a donation to join the walk. Thanks to Takapuna Beach Café, those taking part will have a chance to win one of four café vouchers. To find out more or donate to support dialysis patients, scan the QR code!

Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitākere hospitals. 09 447 0138 info@wellfoundation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz

By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Shore Junction

Shore Junction: Amplifying the North Shore's youth music scene

Shore Junction is a vibrant centre for the North Shore's burgeoning youth music scene. It's a catalyst for creativity, providing young musicians with the tools, opportunities and community they need to thrive, and the chance to perform on a small scale.

The scene at Shore Junction is remarkably diverse, reflecting the rich tapestry of talent within the North Shore community. From metal, rock and pop to hip-hop and electronic music, all genres are welcomed. This inclusivity creates a dynamic and exciting atmosphere, where young artists can explore their musical passions without limitations.

What sets Shore Junction apart is its holistic approach to fostering musical talent. It's not simply about putting on shows; it's about nurturing the entire creative process. This includes:

Rehearsal spaces: Access to two well-equipped rehearsal rooms allowing young musicians to hone their skills and develop their sound. This crucial resource removes the barrier of finding adequate practice space, a common challenge for aspiring artists.

Workshops and mentorship: Shore Junction regularly hosts workshops led by experienced musicians and industry professionals. These sessions cover everything from songwriting and performance techniques to music production and marketing.

Recording facilities: The availability of recording equipment and guidance empowers young artists to capture their music and create professional-quality recordings, and allows music to be released through Shore Junction Records. This is a vital step in building a portfolio and reaching a wider audience.

Community building: Shore Junction fosters a strong sense of community among young musicians. It's a place where they can connect with like-minded individuals, collaborate on projects, and support each other's creative journeys.

Shore Junction's impact extends beyond providing entertainment. It's empowering the next generation of musicians, giving them the skills and confidence they need to pursue their dreams. By providing access to resources, opportunities and mentorship, Shore Junction plays a vital role in shaping the future of the North Shore's music scene.

We're excited to announce the launch of Write Nights! which kicks off on Thursday 27 March from 7pm-10pm, hosted here at Shore Junction. It's a night designed to support 17-24 year-old musicians in developing their songwriting skills, building their creativity and giving them the opportunity to meet other young local artists. One of our staff will facilitate the evening alongside a producer to ensure a collaborative, chill environment for all who attend.

Feel free to contact laura@shorejunction.nz with any questions or for information on signing up.

To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz

By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager

An afternoon at Sunnynook Community Centre is calling you

Please come and enjoy an afternoon at the Sunnynook Community Centre, meet new friends and try new things. Want to learn how to play mahjong? Latin dance? Change a bike tyre? See you on Sunday 9 March at 2pm.

Sunnynook playgroup restarts on Wednesday 5 March 2025, 9.30-11.30am. Free to attend – come and meet some other parents from the community.

Save the date: Kids' Market – Saturday 19 April, 10am-12pm. Email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz to book a stall. This is a kids' market run by kids for kids.

If you would like to go on the online mailing list to receive our community newsletters please email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz

sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz office@sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz.

N E I G H B O U R H O O D

SHARE & CONNECT

SHAPE THE FUTURE, BUILDING TOMORROW

LEARN NEW SKILLS, SHARE IDEAS, AND BE PART OF SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SUNNYNOOK, TOTARA VALE & FORREST HILL COMMUNITIES

새로운 기술을 배우고, 아이디어를 나누며, 우리 지역사회의 미래를 함께 만들어가요 塑造未来, 建设明天 미래를 함께 만들어가는 우리

SKILL-SHARING 기술 공유, 技能分享

KID’S FUN 어린이 놀이, ⼉童娱乐 MUSIC 라이브 음악, 现场⾳乐

KAI 맛있는 음식, 品尝美⻝

Find out more: sunnynook thinkport nz

SUNDAY 9 MARCH 2PM - 4.30PM

SUNNYNOOK COMMUNITY CENTRE

By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability

Yes Disability and I.Lead are ready to make 2025 our year!

After the success of I.Lead’s 2024 conference and our other programmes, we are excited to jump into a whole new year of sharing our services with disabled youth.

I.Lead is excited to be planning our fourth I.Lead conference, which will be held in Wellington on 17 and 18 June 2025. The national committee has dived head-first into planning another great event. Our chosen conference theme is 'Oranga, Mahi, Hākinakina — Live, Work, Play'. We believe that these are three key pillars of a balanced life for rangatahi whaikaha. We will invite 60 young disabled people to attend our conference. It will be an event focused on providing a safe and stable platform for disabled youth to have their voices heard, and to influence positive changes in policy.

If you are a disabled young person between the ages of 18 and 30 years and are passionate about disability social justice, this conference is for you!

Our William Pike Challenge participants went canoeing with North Shore Canoe Club, Canoe Racing New Zealand, and their Paddle Able programme. For many of the participants, this was their first time setting sail across the water, leaving both their comfort zones and the land behind them. This was this intake's fourth challenge, with one more to come!

This month (March) marks the beginning of our next I.Lead x WPC intake! If you or a disabled young person you know is interested in participating, they can register through our website.

The I.Drive programme has grown hugely over the past year. Originating on Auckland’s North Shore, I.Drive now also hosts workshops South Auckland, Dunedin, and Hamilton. The I.Drive Licencing programme supports disabled people in gaining their licences by hosting theory workshops that explore the road code in an interactive and comprehensive manner.

So far this year we have already had two I.Drive sessions on Auckland's North Shore, one for those looking to gain their learner's licence and one for those looking to gain their restricted. We've also had two I.Drive participants pass their licence tests since the beginning of this year!

Check out our website to see when our workshops will be happening this year.

YES Disability will continue its Disabled Men’s Mental Health Group. We invite disabled men 18+ years old – who don’t often get to connect with other disabled men – to join other disabled men in discussing their mental health. This group was created by disabled men, for disabled men, and aims to normalise the discussion of mental health challenges among disabled men. The sessions will occur once a month. Interested? Email Abdulla at abdulla@yesdisability.org.nz.

For more information about our programmes and upcoming events, check out our websites and social media. ilead.org.nz/ • facebook.com/ileadconferencenz instagram.com/i.leadnz/ • tiktok.com/@i.lead linkedin.com/company/i-lead-org

Simon Gundry is a Devonport and North Shore identity, and character, who is known for calling a spade a spade. He is a director of contracting company Gill & Gundry, is an enthusiastic sailor (past crew-member of Ceramco New Zealand, Lion New Zealand and Shockwave) and is a life member of the North Shore Rugby Football Club. Simon was awarded a QSM for services to the community in 2013. More recently, he was inducted into the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame. He has been writing this thought-provoking column for Channel from the very first issue (over 14 years ago!).

We’re inundated with stupidity

It’s March again, only a couple of hundred more sleeps until Christmas. Sorry I missed last month, I extended my holiday in the beautiful Bay of Islands, watching cricket on the telly, reading a few books, swimming at Long Beach and catching up with old friends as I try to do every year.

Coming back to the North Shore, I was again inundated with stupidity. I thought we had done away with all these pedestrian crossings that are being forced on us by Auckland Transport. But no, how wrong I was. I see plans are in place to spend more millions both at the Narrow Neck Beach area and the Cheltenham shops. Again, millions of dollars’ worth of proposed works that could be done for a lot, lot less than the figures being bandied about.

If I’ve said it once I have said it a dozen times, these works really comprise less than a week of digger time, a couple of trucks and three to four truckloads of concrete, and some road painting. And if we make the road painting the same as the previous painting that AT put down, it will wear out within the year. Add in a bit of tar sealing, and the job is done.

So how come there is a couple of million dollars budgeted to do these works that actually nobody wants anyway?

I see also there is a proposal for the makeover of the tennis courts on Mt Victoria, which has a budget of $2.2 million. This design was given by the Tūpuna Maunga Authority (TMA) and approved by them, and includes a combined tennis and basketball court, children’s play area, a games wall, and accessible toilets. Dear me, it just goes on and on. There is also a planned bus parking area downhill from the courts. Why do we need a bus parking area when there is no driving on the mountain?

I see this whole area will have a Māori theme, with a large sculpture, pou, and coloured patterned welcome mat surfaces. The art elements have been designed to reflect the Tainui waka landing. I hope they won’t use the same paint that AT used further down in Devonport which has worn badly in a short space of time.

I despair at the state of the once lovely old Esplanade Hotel. I pop in there occasionally for a zero alcohol beer. There are

dead lightbulbs in the light fittings that have gone unreplaced for months, cigarette butts outside, the garden is unkempt, outdoor furniture is scruffy and broken, the attempted internal paint repairs leave much to be desired, the men’s toilets stink, and the outside is a sad, peeling paint shadow of its former glory. Sir Thomas Lipton would turn in his grave if he saw the state of it, but that is another story. This building is the gateway to Devonport and as such should be something to be really proud of. From what I can gather the building is owned by Chinese business interests and run by an Indian family. It would be great to see it restored to its former splendour.

Here’s some thoughts about the coalition Government that has been in power for 17 months now.

Here we are in a new year, a familiar Government and the same old grumblings from every corner in our country. You can almost set your watch by it. The election of 2023 brought a coalition of National, Act and New Zealand First into power with great promises and a to-do list longer than Lake Road. Now, as we are round the corner into 2025, it is time to ask what has been done, what has been botched and what is still gathering dust.

First up, the big-ticket items: tax cuts, which were promised with much fanfare. If I recall correctly a rather optimistic belief in an economic miracle, but here we are 17 months later, and no one has seen a cent of relief. The Government blames an economic slowdown, a widening budget deficit and the stubborn reality of governing, but for the average New Zealander all that matters is the money isn’t in their pockets. Inflation hasn’t exactly been kind and despite assurances, tax relief is still on the table, but it’s looking like a dog-eared menu item that never quite makes it onto the table.

However, in saying this I believe that the incoming government found a lot bigger problem with the economy than they were led to believe by the despicable outgoing shambles of the government before them.

There’s quite a bit to get through with these grumbles, so I will continue with these next month…

GROUND FLOOR OFFICE FOR SALE IN ALBANY

Colliers is proud to present to the market unit 2E, 5 Ceres Court, a well-appointed Ground floor office of approximately 93sqm. A rare opportunity to buy quality ground floor office in Albany, the property will suit a range of users so owner occupiers and investors must inspect.

5 Ceres Court is a well-known complex adjacent to Apollo drive, located close to the Millennium gym.

Tenants and occupiers often request this address as the top pick for a north shore office, making this a solid long-term investment.

Call Nick Recordon 027 230 6751 or Janet Marshall 021 684 775 now to arrange a viewing.

Nick Recordon 027 230 6751 nick.recordon@colliers.com

colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67032945

Janet Marshall 021 684 775 janet.marshall@colliers.com

2E, 5 Ceres Court, Albany, Auckland

Benefitz at the 2025 New Zealand Open

Benefitz, publishers of Channel Magazine, has once again played a part in producing all the signage and printing required for this event held at the Millbrook Resort near Arrowtown in late February.

The project was led for Benefitz by Blake Douglas, now a shareholder/owner of the business. It involved the production of all the print and signage items at Benefitz HQ in Auckland, then onsite installation at Millbrook by members of the company's signage crew.

“This is a project that we all enjoy immensely and get a real thrill being involved in,” explained Blake, as the project was completed just prior to the tournament starting in late February. “I believe that this, more than any other project, demonstrates our all-around capability across the entire signage and print requirements for events or promotions. For the New Zealand Open, we did all the printing required, manufactured all the signage items, and then played a key role in the installation on site.

“This is the second year we have been involved with the event, and I feel sure that the fact that we can produce so much for the

organisers has made things easier for them. Previously they would have been dealing with two or three suppliers for the products and services we provide.”

… this, more than any other project, demonstrates our all-around capability across the entire signage and print requirements for events or promotions.

For the 2025 New Zealand Open, examples of what Benefitz produced are: printed scorecards for the golfers; printed items such as menus and table cards for the hospitality areas; directional signage for the course; branding for key structures such as hospitality dome, archways, grandstands and television camera towers; fabric walls, banners, rigid and 3D signage for hospitality

lounges; tee and fairway signage; signage for 50 courtesy vehicles; adhesives for merchandise huts and water stations; big banners for interior and exterior display; fabric backdrops for media and event rooms; printed fabric seat covers for temporary grandstands; printed/ branded bibs for golf caddies; and name panels for mobile scoreboards.

“Being able to manufacture and install is a big advantage,” adds Blake. “Being able to print banners to five metres wide is one prime example. This means fewer joins, or no joins, which is much more efficient and results in a better end product. Our fabric printing and finishing capability is another example. We produced lots of walls and backdrops as well as covers for the temporary grandstand seats. These looked great.

“Our production team did a wonderful job getting all this produced and this effort was matched by the outstanding work that our install team did on-site at Millbrook. I was very proud of our efforts – bring on 2026!”

The 2025 New Zealand Open was played at Millbrook Resort from 27 February to 2 March.

DISPLAYS HIGH IMPACT

HIGH IMPACT PORTABLE DISPLAY SYSTEMS

At Benefitz we have a wide range of high impact portable displays that can be produced very economically.

We import or manufacture the hardware and then print and finish the easy-to-assemble displays.

We stock displays from 600mm to 6 metres wide and can also custom-make displays to any size.

Our options include:- Flat or Curved Tensioned Fabric Displays; Flat or Curved Pop-up Displays; Pull-up & Roll-up Banners; Hanging Displays; Kidney Stands & Tables; PVC Vinyl banners & more!

For more details visit our website or contact us to talk to a Benefitz Account Manager.

Kidney Stands

SERVICES ON THE SHORE

Interested in advertising in our Services on the Shore section? Contact: Kim McIntosh: kim@channelmag.co.nz, 021 419 468 Liz Cannon: liz@channelmag.co.nz, 021 204 3395 channelmag.co.nz facebook instagram

Milford: 09 551 3050 Nor th Bays: 09 473 8186 Albany: 09 476 0011 DRIVING

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uckland o the vet • ACC cont • Pre-bookings essential

144 TARGET ROAD, WAIRAU VALLEY PHONE: 09 442 3681 EMAIL: TYRES@NST.CO.NZ We’re the Heating and Cooling Experts

Shore 09 915 0796 www.northshoreheatpumps.co.nz Super energy efficient, whisper quiet heat pumps.

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Mon-Fri 7:30am-5:30pm, Sat 8:00am-1:00pm, Sun Closed P 09 486 2029 E michies@supershoppes.co.nz W www.autosupershoppes.co.nz/shoppes/michies

WASTE

BENEFITZ BUBBLEBOARD & CORFLUTE RECYCLING PROGRAMME

We are on a mission to divert waste away from landfill. Recycling is the cleanest and most efficient way to dispose of printed media.

Benefitz has partnered with Kirbyco and Future Post to turn our Corflute and Bubbleboard signage waste into premium fence posts.

Future Post fence posts are 100% environmentally friendly. They don’t leach out CCAs (copper, chromium and arsenic) like treated timber posts or any other harmful ingredients which is why they are certified by BioGro NZ for use in organic farming.

Every post is made from commercial plastic waste (including Polypropylene/Corflute) so there is no demand on natural resources to produce them.

At their end-of-life, posts can be recycled multiple times. This creates an ongoing environmentally sound and sustainable solution for dealing with large format print waste.

Speak to your Benefitz account manager today on how we can help reduce the carbon footprint of your print and marketing. By working with us you will be contributing positively to the environment and the community while still meeting your business goals.

These bales are then turned into fenceposts by

Collected production waste is turned into ground up bales

Waste corflute and Benefitz Bubbleboard for recycling collected in bags

The Channel Crossword

The shaded squares, from centre top clockwise, contain the answers to these clues:

Spooner said put a fish in your luggage when going to a suburb in... (8)

...city of fickle luck, and the start of adventure (8)

Elegant newcomer's live broadcast (8)

Suggestive cardinal, old and fast (8)

The other clues are in alphabetical order by answer and should be fitted in where they go.

(Where there are indications in the wordplay about the direction of the answer, these are accurate.)

A trim type of goblin reversed sloth and heights causing stress (10)

Nutrition with 51 brought about illness (7)

With Christian rising - Marvin's my suggestion (7)

A type of paper - that's what's in question (2,5)

Witness is watching cricket with soldier (9)

Pouch turns up? Oh! A god couldn't hold her (9)

Arrive at last for heavenly spectacle (5)

Chapter heads end as objectionable (5)

Remixed CDs need to drop... (7)

...players' gas meters getting the chop (9)

Broke without outrageous dance (7)

Traps English with medicinal plants (7)

Cold drink wasted at start of course, say (4,3)

Luminous beat has got turned away (7)

Revel in a suitable clue for amigo (3,2)

Depict long car dropping behind? No! (4)

Judges gold found in British ale satisfactory (7)

They don't light up in town, as Amy Oakley rose periodically (10)

Promise from politico at House of Lords (4)

Fragments block westbound hordes (9)

Buildings dating from before the Beatles met... (7) ...starting to play songs similar to "Do you want to know a secret?" (4)

Gives notice as singers unsettle (7)

Sleep around in return for heavy metal? (7)

Succeeded, joined forces and went forth (7)

City buildings from south, singer covering north (7)

Story of your alien origins could make a bean... (4)

...design on chapter ends in epic tale is obscene (10)

Sat up at sound of bell, checking if food is appealing (7)

Article by British business newspaper on stealing (5)

Mid-January, boring holiday camp, raised pocket money (7)

Open to nude lovers being funny! (10)

This month's crossword will also be uploaded to the creator’s blog at: mayaofauckland.substack.com

There, Mãyã will kindly attempt to answer any questions or comments that may arise from the crosswords each month.

MILFORD | 9A PIERCE ROAD

Perfection

on Pierce Road

Located in the heart of Milford on a private well orientated site for the sun and privacy, this residence offers a superb lifestyle. Masterfully remodelled by the current owners the property features gorgeous timber floors, high stud ceilings, double glazed joinery and charming lawns and gardens. Offering spacious open plan kitchen, living and dining areas which flow seamlessly to multiple outdoor areas perfect for entertaining. Fabulous master-bedroom complete with stylish ensuite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe. Comprising 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (incl ensuite), garaging for 2 cars with internal access, separate laundry plus off-street parking. Close proximity to great local cafes, Milford Beach, Lake Pupuke and excellent school zones.

/80679

ROBERT MILNE 022 011 24 94

RobertMilne@premium.co.nz

RICHARD MILNE 021 770 611