Channel Magazine July 2023

Featured Listings & Recent Transactions

Shoneet

The market has certainly picked up in the second quarter of 2023 with significantly increased levels of activity and transactions over this period.

In addition to the six transactions featured on this page, Shoneet and Matt have completed over 30 transactions since 1st April 2023 with the total value of sales for this period being over $75million.

General sentiment in the market is that interest rates have peaked, or are very close to peaking, which is giving purchasers confidence to proceed with transactions - this was missing from the first quarter of 2023.

We are currently in a very busy period with the closing date for multiple sale campaigns approaching and a number of new campaigns about to be launched – both ‘on’ and ‘off market’.

For any further detail, or to discuss your requirements, please do not hesitate to give either Shoneet or Matt a call on their details below.

Celebrating local hospitality success

Fantail and Turtle wins prestigious 2023 Lewisham Awards for Auckland North

The Lewisham Awards, named in memory of Richard Lewisham, a pioneer of Auckland’s hospitality scene, are held annually to acknowledge excellence across various sectors within the industry, and to recognise and reward exceptional service to Auckland’s hospitality sector.

Now in their 21st year, the 2023 Lewisham Awards were celebrated on Sunday 4 June in a joyous, glimmering, black and white event that shone a spotlight on the remarkable talent present in Auckland’s vibrant hospitality industry.

Nominated and voted exclusively by the hospitality industry, for the first time, the neighbourhood categories only (North, South, East, West and Central) were extended to a public vote in recognition of the important part they play in how Aucklanders eat, work and play locally. Our very own Shore establishment, Fantail & Turtle at Smales Farm, was announced the winner of 'Outstanding Local Establishment – North' award, voted by both the industry and the public.

Owner Travis Field said, "We are incredibly proud of our team and appreciative of our wonderful manuhiri who support us and who voted for us. We love the North Shore and our amazing neighbours at Smales Farm.

Our fellow finalists of Tokki, Stanley Avenue and Tiny Triumphs are awesome, so we were humbled to be nominated alongside them and still buzzing to have won."

Awards committee co-chairs Chris Upton and Connie Clarkson highlighted the changes in the awards this year. “Our 21st edition of

the Lewishams highlights Auckland’s neighbourhoods' sustainability and innovation.

"It is clear that neighbourhood eateries have come into their own in recent times. These are proud to highlight businesses and individuals who continue to raise the bar in our industry, providing memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike."

Well done and well deserved to Travis and his fantastic team at Fantail and Turtle. Cheers!

Travis and Sue Field, James Wakefield, Aroha Shepherd, James Wheeler and the Fantail and Turtle team celebrate their success at the Lewisham Awards

Panoramic views, five-car garaging - prime family package! 12 EASTCLIFFE ROAD, CASTOR BAY

Rarely do we get the opportunity to market such a unique property in a top location. This enviable package offers panoramic sea views from its prime elevated position. The low maintenance characteristics, all-day sun and excellent separation are perfect for family living or an executive couple.

The property was completely rebuilt in 2016 with new cladding, new roof, new double-glazed joinery, and beautiful reworked interiors. It now offers over 300m² of expansive living with the unique feature of having five-car garaging, seldom if ever found in this location.

First-floor living offers a superb open plan DBJ-designed kitchen with a butler's pantry, informal dining and living, opening out to an expansive louvre-tech covered deck with panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf. A dividing wall with a double-sided fireplace separates the informal living with a larger formal dining room ideal for family gatherings. A second living space, which can be closed off, could be used as a formal living

or separate tv room. An additional open space could be utilised as an office/kids play room.

The master is spectacular with an ensuite, walk-in robe, ducted air conditioning, and superb views. A second double room plus a full bathroom, guest toilet and laundry complete this floor.

Downstairs there are a further two double bedrooms, another full bathroom, a large separate media room with air conditioning and a semi-kitchenette/bar area and an internal access double garage with an abundance of storage and wine cellar.

Overall, a brilliant home in a superb location offering three to four living spaces and unique five-car garaging, perfect for teenage families looking for space and separation.

www.precision.net.nz/ID #558134

Impeccably maintained private lake frontage 47 SYLVAN PARK AVENUE, MILFORD

Certain to impress even the most discerning of buyers and on the market for the first time in more than 40 years is this impeccable lakefront property designed by architect Peter Barry-Martin. Situated just off the Golden Mile, the property offers a coveted lakefront position on a full private 842m2 site. This cherished family home enjoys privacy, light, lake views from almost every room and remarkably close direct lake access. The house is well positioned for the sun with expansive northwest-facing living ensuring a constant light-filled living experience, sheltered from Auckland’s prevailing easterly and south westerly winds. Unique for this location is level access to the home from the private ROW. This allows the owners to live entirely on one level if they choose. Stepping inside a generous entry foyer with 360-degree clerestory windows evokes a feeling of Frank Lloyd Wright. It has a character and warmth seldom found with new build homes of today. Built just before the 1970s, the property has been successively modernised with major upgrades that include the replacement of original cedar cladding with new cedar in 2010, new roof and a fully ducted heating system converted to a high-capacity reverse cycle air conditioning serving both levels.

Four double bedrooms and three bathrooms include a master with superb lake views and ensuite. The modern galley kitchen connects to open plan dining and lounge spaces, flowing to generous decking fronting the lake and overlooking its own 10-metre tile-floored concrete swimming pool. Leading to the private outdoor living space to the north is a second sitting/family area that is bathed in natural sunlight.

On the lower floor are two bedrooms and a large downstairs living area also with lake views and offering entertaining separation plus a separate office and storage room.

A three-car internal access garage, external access storage shed for tools and a boat shelter for water toys complete this highly desirable home.

This cleverly designed property will appeal to professional couples and families of all ages who will appreciate this special lake edge location.

Welcome to paradise – phone now.

www.precision.net.nz/ID #558757

Andrew specialises in marketing homes on the Golden Mile between Milford and Takapuna and around the waterfront. In the last six 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. Whilst he is renowned for dealing with higher value properties, Andrew has also carved a niche within 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.

Cover photo: David Watson

Bright nights, bright talent

Dark nights needn’t mean hibernation. This month there are more reasons than most to get out and enjoy an illuminating winter experience. Running from Thursday 27th to Sunday 30th, the midwinter treat that is Takapuna Winter Lights is back. The evening extravaganza will bring thousands of visitors to Takapuna town centre after dark for some interactive light-fuelled fun. Make it along this month for the biggest, best iteration yet.

Bright talent was on display at last month’s AIMES Awards presentation gala, with outstanding short distance sprinter Zoe Hobbs taking home the big $30,000 prize. The New Zealand 100m record holder has burst into 2023 with a blistering start to her season, recently breaking the sub-11 second barrier with a 10.97 time. We’ll be cheering Zoe on at the World Athletics Championships in Belgrade this August as a genuine major international 100m final contender.

Honours were also presented to young Shore people across the fields of arts, innovation, music, education and service to the community, as well as sport, at the North Harbour’s annual AIMES Awards event. From

entrepreneurs to orchestral conductors, scientists to opera singers, community leaders to conservationists, winners aged between 13-25 took home generous grant funding to pursue their passions.

People doing what they love is a theme that came through in this month’s Q & A with some of our passionate local sport volunteers. Our community sports organisations simply would not operate the way they do without these humble helping hands, so this month we put some giving ‘good sorts’ in the spotlight for a Channel reading round of applause. Warm your heart your way this winter.

Heather Barker Vermeer, Editor

Also, introducing… The Property Channel. On the flipside of this issue, we have a new addition to the magazine showcasing spectacular Shore homes for sale. If you’re buying or selling locally get in touch with Liz or Kim, below, to feature your property next month.

Publisher/Advertising Aidan Bennett 021 500 997 aidan@benefitz.co.nz

Editor Heather Barker Vermeer 022 399 3175 heather@channelmag.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 Leanika Starbuck leanika@benefitz.co.nz

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.

Crystal Sharp, Kim McIntosh, Aidan Bennett, Heather Barker Vermeer, Liz Cannon

An environment to open minds that open doors.

Kristin School in Albany offers a:

• Modern, multicultural, co-educational, non-denominational environment with traditional values.

• Focus on student wellbeing and developing Future Ready citizens.

• Team of high quality teaching staff.

• Choice between NCEA or International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma curriculum options for senior students.

• Nationally acclaimed performing arts programme and a wide choice of cocurricular and sporting opportunities.

• Proud record of high academic results and scholarships being awarded locally and internationally.

For all admission and scholarship enquiries, visit kristin.school.nz or call our Admissions Manager on 09 415 9566 ext 2324.

• Vast range of community service and leadership opportunities, and a wide array of trips and exchanges for experiential learning.

• Park-like campus, state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated bus service travelling 20 routes across Auckland.

Scholarships

A limited number of scholarships are available to enable new students to join Kristin from Year 9.

Applications are invited from aspiring individuals who demonstrate excellent character, school involvement, sporting, performing arts and/or academic strengths.

Shore Travel and Princess Cruises at Pupuke Golf Club

Shore Travel hosted an informative evening with Princess Cruises on Monday 22 June at Pupuke Golf Club. Princess Cruises Sales Manger Debbie Monk gave a presentation that provided insights about the upturn in the current cruise ship market. Guests enjoyed nibbles and drinks throughout the evening, and everyone went away with increased confidence in cruise ship offerings.

Renee Lomas, Debbie Monk, Mary Buckley and Anne-Marie Denton Fiona Halliwell, Carol Culshaw and Jackie Skeen

Evyonne and Wayne Carptener

Guy and Jacquee Pedrick

Shirley and Barry Buckley

Sylvia and Frank Corin

Pat Steel, Jill and John Worthington, Ian Steel

The Magic Faraway Tree at The PumpHouse

Magic was in the air at The PumpHouse on Saturday 24 June at the gala opening of The Magic Faraway Tree. Based on Enid Blyton's much-loved children's story, it has been adapted by Tim Bray, with songs by Christine White. Aimed at children aged five to ten years old, encouraged to dress up as their favourite character, the one-hour long production was spell-binding for the excited kids, as well as their accompanying parents and friends. The show is on over the school holidays through to Saturday 15 July at The PumpHouse - don't miss this magical show!

WHAT’S

AT THE VIC

Matariki at The Vic

On Saturday 22 July, Helium Project present their Celebrating Matariki show. Showcasing the compositions of bandleader Nick Edgar is a 13-piece band of talented multiinstrumentalists, with lead vocals and story-telling from Ash Patea (Te Āti Haunui a Pāpārangi), an experienced educator of tikanga and te reo Māori. As part of the Devonport Matariki Celebrations we will also show select screenings of Coco Reo Māori and Whetū Mārama – Bright Star

The Vic open mic night

20 July

Thursday 27 July, 8pm. Every month we open our stage to poets, storytellers, musicians, magicians, word acrobats, pantomimes and everything in between! Contact us at openmike@thevic.co.nz if you are interested in performing, or just come along to support our shining stars on stage! The open mic night is a free event.

Oppenheimer

Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (M)

Alana Hawkes, Gail Rotherham, Anne Towns, Robert Hunte

Anne, Jasmine and Jaxsen Towns, Jason Laird

Kate McDonald, Jeanette Marinovic, Hollie, Rachael and Jack McDonald Oscar, Ada and Alex Te Brake

Paihau Earnshaw-Howard, Lucy Howard

Kristian and Tarsha Bray, Sue Rickit, Brad and Marlowe Burnett, Neil Ricket

Joan and Stuart Smith, Suzie and Hector Harris, Marshall Smith, Murilo Pontes

Investing in challenging times

Whether it’s building funds as you near retirement, or generating an income in retirement, we believe that the key is to take an investment, rather than a savings, approach.

Join Martin Hawes as he outlines how to adopt an investment approach in a high inflation world. Martin will provide an interesting and informative presentation on diversification, intergenerational wealth management, and retirement planning.

About Martin Hawes: Martin Hawes is a well-known New Zealand author, conference speaker, and TV & radio commentator. Martin is the author of 23 books on personal finance. The best known of these are: “20 Good Summers – work less, live more and make the most of your money” (New Zealand best-seller), “Family Trusts – A New Zealand Guide”, and “Cracking Open the Nest Egg”.

Event Details

Date: Monday 24 July Time: 10:30am - 1:00pm

Joining Martin will be Forsyth Barr’s Investment Strategist, Zoe Wallis, who will provide an economic and market update. Advisers from Forsyth Barr will also be on hand to answer any questions.

Light refreshments provided.

Attendees at the seminar will go in the draw to win one of 5 copies of Martin’s latest bestseller, “Cracking Open the Nest Egg”, helping people get ready for their retirement. Martin Hawes is not a Financial Adviser or a Financial Advice Provider. For information relating to Martin Hawes, visit martinhawes.com

(Presentation will commence from 11:00am)

Venue: Fairway Events Centre, Argus Place, Wairau Valley.

For more details and to register, please visit forsythbarr.co.nz/seminars or call Janice Robinson on (09) 368 0039.

0800 367 227 | seminars@forsythbarr.co.nz

Here at MDS we are committed to creating beautiful family homes that will be enjoyed by generations.

As a boutique architectural practice, we place huge emphasis on the wants and needs of our clients, providing them with service of the highest standards.

Big Buddy long lunch fundraiser at Fantail and Turtle

Big Buddy's annual long lunch fundraiser on Wednesday 14 June raised over $40,000. Fantail and Turtle hosted 220 guests, serving a superb four course meal, matched with a fine selection of drinks. Board members, supporters and friends of the charity had a wonderful afternoon while being inspired by speakers Steve Bennett, Master of Wine, and Wen Xu, mother of a current Little Buddy, who gave a powerful talk about the positive impact Big Buddy has on her and her boy's life. The charity aims to make a positive difference to boys without a dad in their lives, matching Big Buddy volunteers, with Little Buddy boys, aged between seven and 14. The boys gain invaluable life skills, resilience and confidence, and the volunteers get immense satisfaction too, knowing they make a positive impact on young lives.

Travis Field, Lettie Bright, Paul Burns, Jason Judkins

Samantha Ford, Teylor Moss, Grace Amick, Jason Judkins, Josie Sutherland, Aiden Lange

Liz Wilson, Rachel Calcinai, Emma Butcher, Travis Field

Amanda Wilson, Ant Farac, Melanie Reece, Karen Duggan

Hayden Camp, Brendon Putt

Karen Torjussen, Mark Lunny, Rob and Lara Weaver, Sonya Lunny

Jason Judkins, James Rooney, Juan Sānchez, Stefan Young, Ben Hussey

Rangi Faulds, Russell Clements, Robyn Levinge

Kristina Clements, Kirsten Redfern, Hannah Lyness

Stefan Young, Steve Bennett, Travis Field

Rocky Nair, Adam Neil, Rory Williams, Stephen Lockie

2023 AIMES Awards Gala Dinner at the Bruce Mason Centre

The 2023 North Harbour Club AIMES Awards Gala Dinner was held at the Bruce Mason Centre on Saturday 10 June. The AIMES Supreme Award winner was world class sprinter Zoe Hobbs. The gala dinner is an annual highlight on the North Shore social calendar and features the awards, performances from past and present award winners (this year including 2011 AIMES Music Award winner Moses MacKay), and a silent auction. The event was MC’d by Milford local and TV celebrity Hilary Barry, who also put forward one of her infamous lockdown tiaras to be auctioned to raise funds for the AIMES Awards. The successful bidder was generous Takapuna local Chris Reeve who modelled his new piece of jewellery on stage. See our feature detailing all the 2023 AIMES Award winners in this issue.

Bob Leveloff, Angela Spooner, Tim McCoy, Helen Rice, Bruce Spooner, Kelly Quinn, Fay Freeman, Wayne and Margaret Miles

Hilary Barry and Chris Reeve

Brad Pettifer, Tayla Boyd, Sharon and Nick Farrelly

Catherine, Rachael, Steven and Joan Finlayson

David Old, Allen Uhler, Ann Old, Bonnie Yee, Debra Mackinnon, Colin Gibbons

Theresa and David Kinnear, Rob Taylor, Mark and Judi Wilson

Ali Dymond, Erin Robson, Caterina Baroutsos, Natasha Williams

Moses MacKay

Phil and Linda Moore, Gary and Lesley Monk, Glenys Dennison, Glenn Baillie-Price, Cameron Brewer

AIMES Award recipients 2023: Alexia Hilbertidou, Cameron Gray, Zoe Hobbs, Spencer Potbury, Jannik Wittgen, Tayla Alexander, Joshua Kirk, Asa Waller

The Magic Faraway Tree by Tim Bray Theatre Company

For the first time, North Shore-based Tim Bray Theatre Company (TBTC) brings one of the world’s best-selling authors, Enid Blyton, to the stage in its adaptation of The Magic Faraway Tree, playing 24 June – 15 July at The PumpHouse Theatre.

Don’t miss the fabulous, fantastical story of Jo, Bessie and Annie as they move to the country and discover a ginormous tree in the midst of an enchanted wood. Things get really strange when they climb it and discover magical people living there, like Silky, MoonFace and the Saucepan Man.

At the very top, a ladder leads them to magical lands which are sometimes nice (like the Land of Presents), but sometimes not-sonice (like the Roundabout Land and Rocking Land). Along the way, the children have some thrilling adventures.

This is the first time TBTC, recognised as Auckland’s leading theatre company for children, has adapted any of Enid Blyton’s beloved books for the stage, having previously adapted works by the likes of Roald Dahl, Margaret Mahy, Joy Cowley and Spike Milligan.

Tim Bray QSM first started working on the script back in 2020 for a season later that year, but Covid meant the season was cancelled. The company is thrilled to finally bring it to the stage three years later. The Magic Faraway Tree is based on three books in The Enchanted Wood series, and this wonderful show will enchant audiences from the first minute to the last.

Bringing these magical adventures to life are Raj Varma (D’Arranged Marriage, ANZ bank ads), Jacque Drew (The Power of the Dog, One of Us is Lying), Jaeden Lawrie (Tim Bray’s The Whale Rider, Te Pakkhai), Nikeidrian Peters (What We’re Made Of), Isabella Temm (Tim Bray’s The Santa Claus Show ‘22) and Jacinta Compton (director

of The Girl, The Lamb & The Man - Best First Time Director winner at the Berlin Indie Film Festival 2022).

The cast is also joined by Unitec’s third year acting students as part of the collaboration between the company and Unitec, working together to inspire the next generation of young people in the world of theatre. Unitec performers include Jacob Bainbridge, Shannon Freeman, Luke Orbell, Manunui Rainey, Gisele Proud and Aimee Aranha.

The production will also include a lively original musical score composed by North Shore-based Marshall Smith (aka Marshmellow), who has previously written songs for TBTC productions The Great White Man-Eating Shark and Other Stories, and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, and who created the incidental music for The Lighthouse Keeper’s Lunch, The Santa Claus Show ‘22 and Badjelly the Witch

The many wondrous lands throughout the story have been expertly imagined for the stage by set designer Rachael Walker, costume designer Vicki Slow and lighting designer Steve Marshall.

Tim Bray Theatre Company was the first company in New Zealand to offer NZSL interpreted performances in 2004, and it continues to be committed to making theatre accessible for all audiences to experience the art of live performance. The Magic Faraway Tree includes NZSL-interpreted, audio described and sensory relaxed performances throughout the season.

Join this mischievous and adventurous cast as they head out in search of adventure!

Book your tickets now at timbray.org.nz to be a part of the adventure at The PumpHouse Theatre, from 24 June – 15 July.

by

Auckland’s leading theatre for children The PumpHouse Theatre, Auckland

Enid Blyton • Adapted by Tim Bray

Depot

with Amy Saunders

Celebrating magical Matariki and 10 years of Agatha Christie

Embark on a transformative journey this Matariki with a free event under the stars in the Amphitheatre.

In '.co.nz', three friends navigate the complexities of modern life during the Matariki season. Through storytelling, they reflect on their past, and seek ways to empower and connect with Te Ao Māori going forward, exploring its core concepts amidst the threat of technology and assimilation. A must see, uniquely Kiwi story for everyone this Matariki holiday.

Ten years of midwinter mysteries

This July we celebrate 10 years of Agatha Christie midwinter murder mysteries at The PumpHouse Theatre.

In 'Witness for the Prosecution', Leonard Vole stands accused of murdering a wealthy widow. The stakes are high with shocking witness testimony, impassioned outbursts from the dock, and a young man’s fight to escape the hangman’s noose… all with a classic Christie twist in the tale.

Regarded as one of Agatha Christie’s most accomplished plays, this suspenseful thriller keeps audiences guessing until the very end.

Join the jury!

Twelve patrons at each performance are invited to join the court in the jury box. From your seat on stage in the middle of the action you’ll be sworn in, listen to the evidence, and support the foreperson to deliver the verdict.

The court will provide (ice cream) refreshments at the interval and a souvenir photo for these 12 dedicated jurors.

The Magic Faraway Tree is a sell-out!

By the time you read this the sell-out season of Tim Bray Theatre Company’s 'The Magic Faraway Tree' will be well underway. Check the website for last minute tickets or get in quick for 'The Twits' coming in the next school holidays!

See you at the theatre soon!

Ngā manaakitanga, James Bell

BOOKINGS: 09 489 8360 or pumphouse.co.nz

A time for renewal and reflection

We’re excited for July – a time of renewal and reflection. We’re thrilled to be hosting a number of events in support of our annual Matariki 2023 exhibition, Āhuru Mōwai, including workshops on weaving, and Māori medicine and rongoā. Check Channel Mag's online What's On guide for dates, or visit our website for more information.

Depot Artspace

Matariki 2023:

Āhuru Mōwai

1 July – 1 August

Based on the wisdom and understanding of old, Āhuru Mōwai means nurturing human life from conception; the parent as first teacher, first heartbeat, first soul, first sound, and first scent. Āhuru Mōwai features the works of 15 artists skilled in a variety of media such as whakairo, raranga, rongoā, painting, sound, and textile.

Te Tira Wahine

1 July – 2 August

Te Tira Wahine elevates and celebrates the creativity of our wāhine. Artist Mei Hill’s cast-glass mosaics featuring Māori designs are anchored in kaupapa that resonate with her as she tries to find the poetry in all her works. Hill’s greatest creative inspiration has been her mother, who was a 'maker' of all things.

Be sure to stop by our galleries and experience these exhibitions before the month ends!

Depot Sound

Depot Sound is proud to offer the North Shore’s leading recording studio facility, with friendly, professional, and affordable studios for musicians, authors and artists of all genres. Whatever the needs of your project, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned musician, an author, or a podcaster, our talented team of experienced producers will work with you to deliver to the highest level.

Visit our website and sign up to our newsletter to keep up to date with all things Depot! depot.org.nz

News from The PumpHouse from James Bell

The Kestrel soars at Devonport Wharf

The Kestrel is flying high as Devonport's newest bar and eatery, and is the home of good food, good beers and wines, and good times.

Arguably positioned in the best location in Devonport, The Kestrel is set on picturesque Devonport Wharf. This sun-soaked venue is the perfect place to enjoy cocktails, tap beers, wines, a locally inspired menu and live entertainment, with gorgeous views across the Waitematā Harbour.

Live sport and entertainment

With five big screens and ten local breweries on tap, make this your destination for watching live sport. The Kestrel shows all major sporting events, including the FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Rugby World Cup and the Melbourne Cup. Or be entertained with fantastic live music on Friday nights and Sunday afternoons.

The food

The Kestrel serves modern New Zealand pub food at its finest. The ethos behind their appetising menu is the belief that the quality of ingredients always shines through. As such, the highest quality meats and produce are sourced, with the chefs using only the freshest

line-caught, sustainable fish, all meat dishes use ethically farmed produce, and all menu items serving chicken, pork and eggs are always free-range. These high-quality ingredients, paired with the chef's passion for creating the most delectable dishes, means you can really taste the difference.

The drinks

The Kestrel is a free-house bar with an extensive range of local brews. With more than ten beers on tap and many more in bottles, there is something for even the fussiest beer connoisseur. The bar also boasts an impressive wine list, featuring great New Zealand wineries, as well as serving all your favourite cocktails, made fresh to order with panache!

The venue

The stunning views over Auckland city and the harbour bridge make this the perfect place to relax and catch up with friends or family. Be entertained with live music every weekend or watch the sports events showing on the bar TV screens. A large variety of private and semiprivate events can be accommodated in the various versatile spaces available. Just speak to the friendly team, who will be happy to help you with your special event.

Make time to discover Devonport's newest venue. Be welcomed, entertained, fed and watered with the very best of what's on offer, and make it your local!

The Kestrel

1 Queens Parade, Devonport 09 445 1777

admin@thekestrel.co.nz thekestrel.co.nz

Tuesday: 4pm-9pm

Wednesday-Sunday: 12pm-late

Ingredients

To make three baguettes:

375g (13oz or 2 3/4 cups)

high grade flour

215ml (7.5floz or 1 cup) water

7g (2tsp) fine salt

5g (1½ tsp) instant dry yeast

Authentic Parisian baguettes

Made using the Emile Henry Baguette Baker, currently 20% off at Home Essentials. Total preparation time (includes leaving dough to rise): 1hr 10mins Cooking time: 25 mins

Method

1. Heat the water to around 40°C (100°F). Mix the flour, salt and dry yeast in a mixing bowl.

2. Pour in the warm water and knead for five minutes until you have a smooth dough. Cover the bowl with a cloth and leave to rise for 40 minutes at room temperature, away from draughts.

3. Work the dough by hand to let the air out, then divide into three sections.

4. Shape each section by rolling into a thin cylinder, slightly longer than the moulds in the tray. Brush flour inside the baking tray and place the cylinders of dough in each mould.

5. Cover with the lid and leave to rise for 20 minutes at room temperature. Pre-heat the oven to 250°C (475°F). Brush some water over the surface of the baguettes, making sure that the water doesn’t come between the dough and the mould, which would make the dough stick to the mould while cooking. Make deep slashes across the top.

6. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes. Remove the lid and brown the tops for two minutes.

7. Try putting a bowl of water on the lower rack of the oven while baking your bread. This creates steam which helps create a crunchy crust.

Tip: To obtain a more traditional-looking baguette, lightly flour the surface of each cylinder of dough just before baking.

Recipe by Emile Henry

Great eats and superb coffee central to Centro's success

Centro is a local Takapuna café that continues to be an extremely popular, firm favourite – and for good reason! New owners Silva and Sasa, along with their partners Ajani and Yeshi, took charge back in March this year. Since then, Centro has continued to thrive, with a growing number of loyal, enthusiastic and discerning customers who are never disappointed.

Silva and Sasa have lived in New Zealand since 2013 and have more than eight years' experience in the hospitality industry. Originally from Sri Lanka, where their culture is firmly rooted in exceptional service and hospitality, Silva, Sasa and their team focus on friendly service, delicious food, the very best coffee and 100% customer satisfaction. Centro's lovely rustic interior and chilled vibe inside the café is a pleasure, and guests are always welcomed with a friendly greeting and warm smile.

Recognising and meeting the exceptionally high standards expected by their discerning customers is something Silva and Sasa took to heart right from the get-go. They introduced the very best coffee the Shore has to offer, serving Chiasso coffee exclusively, which is supplied directly from the Devonport-based connoisseurs of coffee. And if that isn't reason enough to visit, every Monday you can bump-start your week, with a free Chiasso coffee when you purchase any menu item priced at $16.99 or more.

Along with raising the coffee culture bar in Takapuna, the food is also to die for! Centro prides themselves on accommodating the unique needs of every individual, offering a full range of food options that cater to a variety of palates. From delectable main courses to a tempting array of sweet treats, the diverse menu and cabinet food selection aims to delight and satisfy every customer who walks through the doors. The all-day breakfast menu leaves you spoilt for choice, covering all the staple favourites as well as more unusual options for those wanting a taste of something new. The Centro burgers are quite simply sensational, and if you want fantastic value for

money to end your week with a treat, choose from all four burger options on Burger Friday, when the burgers are just $18.99 per order.

If your children's eyes are too big for their bellies, Centro also caters for smaller appetites with good value, wellportioned and delicious kid's menu items at just $15 each, which includes a kids' activity pack to keep the little ones busy and entertained.

Centro is open seven days a week, including public holidays, and does not charge any surcharge on those special days, to help you celebrate together with family and loved ones without blowing the budget. And Centro is planning big things to come, with a dinner menu launching soon to provide a high-quality experience for evening diners too.

Many Channel Mag readers will already know and love Centro. If you haven't been for a while, or you are yet to enjoy the Centro experience, do pop along soon and say hi to Silva, Sasa and their team. You won't be disappointed, that's for sure!

Winter Warmer Specials

Mondays: Free Chiasso coffee when any menu item priced at $16.99 or more is purchased

Wednesdays: Super Soup 'hump-day' treat, just $10

Fridays: Burger Friday – four different flavoured burgers for just $18.99

Centro

09 200 2277

centroauckland@gmail.com

Facebook @centrotakapuna Instagram @centrotakapuna

Open 7 days a week throughout the year

Mon-Sun 7am-3pm

No surcharge on public holidays

Sasanka Wijethunga, Sandun De Silva

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

Offering Persian and Mediterranean cuisine in Devonport. 5/15 Victoria Road, Devonport. 09 600 2125 akdenizdevonport.co.nz

Buona Sera Restaurant

Serving autentic Italian food since 2005 in the heart of Devonport. Great food comes from great ingredients. 99 Victoria Road, Devonport. 09 445 8133 buonasera.co.nz

Cafe Hung Viet

Traditional flavours of Vietnamese cuisine brings authentic Hanoi meals to the North Shore.

101 Victoria Rd, Devonport. 09 446 3368 cafehungviet.co.nz

Calimero

Extensive authentic pizza range open seven days a week. Real pizza, great taste!

163 Victoria Road, Devonport. 09 445 2232 calimerodevonport.booknorder.co.nz

Corellis

Great tasting home-style fare at a great price. 46 Victoria Road Devonport. 09 445 4151 corelliscafe.co.nz

DEVONPORT

Devonport Indian Hub

Classic Indian and Asian fusion cuisine. Be welcomed by owner Kushal and chef Bikram when you arrive at this friendly new restaurant. As a service-orientated establishment, we love meeting and getting to know our guests and are happy to answer any questions. With over 20 years' experience providing authentic Indian and Indo-Chinese cuisine, we love sharing our exquisite meals - allow yourself to be enveloped by aromatic spices, pure meats, and homemade naan and lassi.

Open 7 days a week, 11am-9.30pm 71 Victoria Road, Devonport devonportindianhubnz@gmail.com devonportindianhub.co.nz 09 445 4263

Devonport Indian Hub - The Asian Eatery

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

Devon on the Wharf

A little slice of heaven for tastes of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine.

1 Queen's Parade, Devonport. 09 445 7012 devononthewharf.nz

Flying Rickshaw

Honest and simple authentic Indian cuisine. 97 Victoria Road, Devonport. 09 445 7721 flyingrickshaw.co.nz

Khana on the Shore

Fresh, authentic Indian cuisine using the best fresh and natural ingredients.

161 Victoria Road, Devonport. 09 445 1546 / 021 689 216. khana.co.nz

Manuka Cafe and Restaurant

Mediterranean inspired cuisine and friendly customer service. 49 Victoria Road, Devonport. 09 445 7732 manukarestaurant.co.nz

Portofino Devonport

Very popular Italian restaurant in the heart of Devonport. 26 Victoria Rd, Devonport. 09 445 3777 portofinodevonport.co.nz

DEVONPORT

Vondel

Owner-operated eatery in Devonport. Serving vegan and omni eats alongside small batch wine, beer and spirit drinks. We hold weekly specials, along with wine makers' dinners, makers' markets and private events.

Sign up to our mailing list on our website to keep up to date with all goings on at Vondel.

Open Hours: Tues-Fri 12pm - late, Sat 10am - late, Sun 10am - 6pm 09 446 6444 hello@vondel.co.nz vondel.co.nz

Instagram Instagram @vondel_akl Facebook facebook.com/vondelakl

Signal Hill Restaurant

Serves classic NZ fare with an extensive drinks list in Devonport’s most iconic homestead. 24 Victoria Road, Devonport. 09 445 0193 signalhill.co.nz

The Kestrel

Extensive tap beer range, great NZ wines & cocktails and modern NZ pub food.

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

The Patriot

Your Devonport Pub - owned by locals, for locals. 14 Victoria Road, Devonport. 09 445 3010 thepatriot.co.nz

Vic Road Kitchen

Serving fresh, seasonal NZ produce in a rustic Mediterranean style. 57-59 Victoria Road, Devonport. 09 445 9797 vicroadkitchen.co.nz

Vic Road Wine Bar and Cellar

Enjoy a glass of wine from the ever-changing wine list, chosen from a selection of interesting NZ and international wines. 53/55 Victoria Road, Devonport. 09 445 0194 vicroadkitchen.co.nz

Vondel

Serving vegan and omni eats alongside small batch wine, beers and spirit drinks. 8 Victoria Road, Devonport. 09 446 6444 vondel.co.nz

The Kestrel

Located on Devonport Wharf, The Kestrel serves modern New Zealand pub food at its finest and a great range of drinks from a stunning wharf-side location. Our sun-soaked venue is the perfect place to enjoy cocktails, tap beers, wines, a locally inspired menu and live entertainment with views out over Auckland Harbour.

1 Queens Parade, Devonport 09 445 1777 admin@thekestrel.co.nz thekestrel.co.nz

Tuesday: 4pm-9pm

Wednesday-Sunday: 12pm-late

Belmont/Bayswater

Daily Bread

Freshly baked loaves and perfect pastries made fresh every day. Available in store and for deliveries.

43 Eversleigh Road, Belmont. dailybread.co.nz

Toni's Italian Pizzeria

Traditional, handmade, authentic and fresh.

167 Lake Road, Belmont. 09 962 6693 tonispizzeria.co.nz

XO Takapuna

Asian skewers and street style food, tasty cocktails and boutique liqueurs, all with impeccable service and style. 333 Lake Road, Bayswater. 09 486 0003 xotakapuna.com

Smales Farm, Takapuna

Fantail & Turtle

Popular bar and eatery with alfresco vibe and great food!

Goodside at Smales Farm. 09 486 0644 fantailandturtle.co.nz

Shake Out

Serving a highly addictive menu of burgers, sides, shakes and sundaes – fast.

Goodside at Smales Farm. 09 489 8223 shakeout.co

Soho Thai

The art of traditional Thai cooking giving a modern twist.

Goodside at Smales Farm. 09 972 2711 sohothaikitchen.com

The Grange Bar & Bistro

A favourite all-day bar and bistro. Making the most of the best, fresh NZ produce.

Goodside at Smales Farm. 09 972 9060 thegrangetakapuna.co.nz

Takapuna

Alforno Italian Restaurant

Delicious Italian and Mediterranean food cooked with passion. 34 Anzac Street, Takapuna. 09 488-0179 alforno.co.nz

Khana

Khana serves fresh, authentic Indian food for the local community and visitors. Our menu offers a wide range of Indian specialties such as butter chicken, goat curry, lamb rogan josh, paneer saag, dal tadka and many more. We use free range chicken, fresh hapuka, fresh vegetables and fresh spices. Curry bases and gravies are made in-house from natural ingredients and spices. Order easily through our online system for takeaways and delivery. We look forward to serving you.

161 Victoria Road, Devonport khana.devenport@gmail.com 09 445 1546 / 021 689 216 khana.co.nz

Aubergine Restaurant

Premium European and Mediterranean style dining

129 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna. 09 489 3104 aubergine.co.nz

Botticelli Restaurant & Wine Bar

A popular Italian eatery, serving Takapuna for over 27 years Anzac Street, Takapuna. 021 910 999 botticelli.co.nz

Burger Burger

Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna. 09 390 5348. burgerburger.co.nz

Catch 21 Eatery

Serving exceptional coffee, staple café offerings and fine seafood. 33 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna. 09 484 0005 catch21.co.nz

Centro

Cozy haven with friendly service, exceptional coffee and delectable cuisine.

447a Lake Road, Takapuna, 09 200 2277

Dantes Pizza & Casa Pasta

Wood fired pizzas and sensational pasta in the heart of Taka! Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna. 09 486 3668. dantes.co.nz

El Humero

Traditional Colombian-style barbecue restaurant - yum! Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna. 09 489 9973. elhumero.co.nz

Florrie McGreals Irish Pub

The best place in Takapuna to have a beer, meet old friends or make new ones. Great food as well!

138 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna. 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, BDO Towers, Takapuna. 09 489 2266 projectemploy.nz

Francs Bar & Diner

Beachside diner smacks of fresh fish, crisp lager, flopping jandals and easy service from sunrise to sunset. Main Beach, The Strand, Takapuna. 09 488 0016 joylab.co.nz/francs

French Rendez-Vous

French bistro-creperie serving delicious traditional French favourites, gluten free galettes and sweet crêpes.

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

Nanam

Relaxed, warm dining experience showcasing Filipino flavours. 178 Hurtsmere Road, Takapuna. 09 488 9976 nanam.co.nz

Regatta Bar & Eatery

Your slice of Ibiza, right here on the Shore. Stunning sea views, premium beer, bloody good wine and fresh seafood. Main Beach, The Strand, Takapuna. 09 488 0040 joylab.co.nz/regatta

Sakebar Nippon

Traditional Japanese (Isakaya style) cuisine in a lively fun setting to experience the sites and sounds of busy Japan!

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

Taylors on Hurstmere

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

The Elephant Wrestler

Larger than life local in the heart of Taka with outdoor courtyard. Selection of crafty beverages and food that’s undeniably Kiwi. 138 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna. 09 489 8030 joylab.co.nz/elephant-wrestler

Tok Tok Kitchen

Busy, unique restaurant with Asian fusion cuisine near the beach. 129 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna. 09 489 3988 toktok.co.nz

Tokyo Bay

Modern Japanese cuisine by experienced sushi master Chikara Sato, a ‘fugu’ blowfish licensed sushi chef.

Main Beach, The Strand, Takapuna. 09 390 7188 tokyobay.co.nz

Winner Winner Takapuna

Healthy, fast, fresh dinners or lunches with yummy chicken a focus! 16 Anzac Street, Takapuna. 09 486 0755 winnerwinner.co.nz

Northcote Point

The Engine Room

Since 2006, a neighbourhood bistro that is simply one of the best in NZ! 115 Queen Street, Northcote Point. 09 480 9502 engineroom.net.nz

Calimero Devonport

Located in the heart of Devonport on Victoria Road, Calimero serves fresh, authentic pizzas seven nights a week. A far cry from your average pizzeria, Calimero boasts an extensive menu of both authentic and more unconventional pizza options, taking flavours from cities around the world. Great taste, great value - check out the regular Tuesday specials. Order online at calimero.co.nz for your favourite pizza or try something new. Pickup and delivery options available.

163 Victoria Road, Devonport 09 445 2232 calimero.co.nz

Facebook CalimeroPizza Instagram calimero_nz

Fantail & Turtle

A bar & eatery founded on friendship, with an offering that acknowledges our independence and our appreciation of quality. Expect fresh & local craft beer, real ale & cider flowing from 15 taps, an on-site microbrewery, a wine list covering local and far away regions that are synonymous with varietal excellence, an extensive gin list enhanced with botanics fresh from our gardens, bespoke modern cocktails to sip late into the evening, and modern sharing dishes by chef James Wheeler, with a focus on showcasing sustainable & locally sourced seasonal produce.

hello@fantailandturtle.co.nz

fantailandturtle.co.nz

Instagram fantailandturtle

Clarence Rd Eatery

An all day cafe/restaurant in the historic building that includes Bridgeway Cinema. You’ll love it!

124 Queen Street, Northcote Point. 09 480 9600 clarencerdeatery.nz

Northcote Tavern

One of the best places for pub food on the Shore!

37 Queen Street, Northcote Point. 09 480 7707 northcotetavern.co.nz

Birkenhead

Abruzzo Ristorante Italiano

Authentic Italian cuisine as warm as the Mediterranean sun.

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

Birkenhead Brewing Company

Classic 100 year old kauri villa with a tavern atmosphere for true Kiwi hospitality.

17 Birkenhead Avenue, Birkenhead. 09 320 5055 bbc.kiwi

Blitza Pizza

Authentic Italian pizzas and mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine.

9 Birkenhead Avenue, Birkenhead. 09 480 5006 blitzapizza.co.nz

Burrito House

Passionate about providing delicious, high-quality Mexican food.

17 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead. 09 418 2095 burritohouse.co.nz

Chef Rasa Sayang

Finest authentic Malaysian food.

25 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead. 09 419 9788

DIT

Dutch Bistro Located in Birkenhead.

3 Birkenhead Ave, Birkenhead. 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

Jose's Mexican food is compulsive and the margaritas are addictive. 12-14 Birkenhead Avenue, Birkenhead. 09 218 6162 josescantina.co.nz

TAKAPUNA

Moxie Restaurant

A much-loved restaurant serving modern cuisine, setting high standards at Birkenhead Point.

82 Hinemoa Street, Birkenhead Point. 09 419 9082 moxierestaurant.co.nz

Mulan Malaysian Restaurant

Authentic flavours of South East Asia, home-style Malaysian cuisine. 243 Hinemoa Street, Birkenhead. 09 480 2806 mulan.co.nz

Primerose Thai Cuisine

Traditional Thai dishes with excellent aroma, flavour and taste. 6 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead. 09 418 0555 primerosethaicuisine.co.nz

Real Burger

Best burgers on the Shore, plus fries and chicken options too. Tasty, good, real.

30 Birkenhead Ave, Birkenhead. 021 085 95485 realburger.site

Tasty Tiny Thai Restaurant

Unique Thai experience with authentic dishes bursting with flavour.

52d Mokoia Road, Birkenhead. 09 418 4999 tastytinythai.co.nz

Thai Yum Food Hut

Authentic Thai food in Birkenhead. 23 Birkenhead Avenue, Birkenhead. 09 480 6799 thaiyum.net.nz

The Curry Master

Experience Indian food at it’s finest. 18 Birkenhead Avenue, Birkenhead. 09 480 7211 thecurrymaster.co.nz/birkenhead

The Good Home

Honest homestyle cooking at its best. 83 Birkenhead Avenue, Birkenhead. 09 480 0066 thegoodhomebirkenhead.co.nz

Milford

Anokha Indian Restaurant

Long been a destination choice for Indian food lovers, specialising in North Indian Cuisine – authentic curry, tandoori dishes and freshly baked breads. 140 Kitchener Rd, Milford. 09 489 1499 anokha.co.nz

TAKAPUNA

Catch 21 Eatery

Welcome to our 'home away from home' cozy 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 for breakfast, lunch and dinner (to be booked 24 hours in advance) with traditional French dishes like beef bourguignon and also lots of gluten free galettes and sweet crêpes. Located at the heart of Takapuna. Book at www.french-rendez-vouscaferestaurant.business.site

Or via our Facebook and Instagram accounts: Facebook: FrenchRendezvousTakapuna Instagram: @frenchrendezvoustakapuna

2a Manurere Avenue

Next to The PumpHouse, Takapuna

09 487 0009

Taylors on Hurstmere

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

Shop 8/33 Hurstmere Road

09 484 0005

CATCH 21

Yellow Hour

Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV

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!

Shows are back on at the Bruce Mason

Centre: December Avenue Live Friday

PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY TAKAPUNA

7 July Creedence Clearwater Collective Sunday 16 July.

Veuve Clicquot happy hour 5pm to 7pm $85 per bottle.

Tohu wines tasting Wednesday 19 July

168 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna

taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com

taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz

09 489 9510

Licenced Eatery

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

BIRKENHEAD

Fika with Me

If you need a reason to visit Birkenhead, you’ve found it! This cosy café, located at 5 Birkenhead Ave has a funky menu serving Altura coffee. Chef-owner Deepak, originally from Fiji, has designed the dishes to include flavours inspired from his own heritage. If you’re in the mood to try something unique, this is the place to be. Open six days a week with plenty of parking. Call 094185508 to book a table.

Opening Hours: Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri 8.00am-2.30pm

Sat, Sun 8.30am-2.30pm

5 Birkenhead Avenue

Instagram fika_with_me

Facebook fikawithmebirkenhead @fikawithme

Bunty's Burgers

NEW! Gourmet burger bar specialising in smash, chicken and veggie burgers.

89 Kitchener Road, Milford. 09 486 5711

Cave À Vin

Natural wines and food to share – locals love this place!

146 Kitchener Rd, Milford caveavin.co.nz

La Mexicana

Traditional taqueria using in house-made, freshly baked corn tortillas.

13 Shakespeare Road, Milford. 09 282 0392 lamexicana.co.nz

Monthien Thai Restaurant

Popular Thai eatery in the heart of Milford. Real Thai real taste and best service!

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

Musashi Japanese Cuisine Milford

Serves everything you expect from your authentic Japanese restaurants but with a twist. Menu of Japanese cuisine, built around local taste and ingredients.

212 Kitchener Road, Milford. Phone 489 5977 musashirestaurant.co.nz

PYM's of Milford

The popular neighbourhood Milford Village bar & eatery. Excellent drinks selection with simple but great food.

154 Kitchener Road, Milford pymsofmilford.com

Stanley Avenue

Stanley Avenue is a relaxed, smart, wine bar and bistro where people can come and enjoy a light snack or sophisticated meal paired with an interesting wine offering.

52 East Coast Road, Milford, 09 410 0066 stanleyavenue.co.nz

Talay Thai Restaurant

Delicious authentic Thai cuisine. Using only the freshest ingredients with vegetarian, vegan options and gluten free dishes.

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

The Hub Milford Bar & Grill

Eat, drink and play at your local with live music on Friday nights.

145 Kitchener Road, Milford. 09 489 4480 thehubmilford.nz

Tokki

Modern Korean restaurant in the heart of Milford, inviting customers to enjoy a Korean taste palette adventure like no other.

87 Kitchener Road, Milford. 09 488 0888 tokki.co.nz

MILFORD

Bunty's Burgers

Bunty’s specialises in smash burgers, in-house smoked pork and beef brisket burgers, and fried chicken. Pair your burger with a delicious range of sides, bites & salads, including plenty of gluten free & vegetarian options. We focus on using the freshest ingredients and make as much as we can in-house. There is a modern and adventurous wine list and Behemoth beers on tap. This ain’t your ordinary burger joint!

Now open Friday lunchtime!

Open Wednesday-Thursday from 4pm & Friday - Sunday from midday 89 Kitchener Rd, Milford buntys.co.nz

The Milford Cafe, Bar & Restaurant

For brunch, lunch & dinner. Classics, re-imagined and modernised –the best in fine coffee, wine and delicious food.

7 Milford Road, Milford. 09 488 9388 themilford.co.nz

East Coast Bays

21 Days Bar & Brasserie

Named after the process of aging beef 21-28 days. Great food, some say best meat on the Shore!

37 Clyde Road Browns Bay. 0800 21 3297 21days.co.nz

El Greco Greek and Italian Eatery

A touch of the Mediterranean in the Bays! – the locals try to keep it a secret, it’s good!

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

Montrose Cafe, Bistro & Bar

A Mairangi Bay local known for consistently good food and hospitality!

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

Paper Moon

One of the Bay's favourite dining and drinking spots – for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks into the evening. 437 Beach Road, Mairangi Bay. 09 479 8872 papermoon.org.nz

Ristorante La Spiaggia

One of the best Italian restaurants on the Shore – Maria and Emilio never disappoint! 470 Beach Road, Murrays Bay. 09 475 5643 laspiaggia.co.nz

Shore Wide

Your Catering

Catering for all occasions and all requirements across the Shore. Call Paul on 021 214 2095 yourcatering.co.nz

SHOREWIDE

Your Catering

Owner/operator Paul has been catering for hospitality events across the North Shore and beyond for 25 years. A wide range of menus and options are available to suit all occasions, events, functions, dietary requirements and budgets. Set menus or bespoke packages available. All menus are handpicked, sourcing the best, freshest local ingredients. Full service provided: preparation, cooking, presentation, serving and clearing away, leaving you and your guests to enjoy your event!

Call Paul on 021 214 2095 or email yourcatering.nz@gmail.com yourcatering.co.nz for full range of menus.

SIMON WATTS

MP for North Shore

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

Sending something awkward?

Pack & Send Takapuna is your 'one stop shop' when you need to send unusually awkward items - anywhere. No matter how large, unwieldy, or fragile the item is, you can rely on Pack & Send's experienced operators to package it and get it delivered, safely.

Jane and Jeremy Bain, the franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna have a 'no limits' approach when helping customers solve packaging and freight problems around difficult-to-send items . "Many of the items we have dealt with are considered too difficult for a general freight," says Jeremy.

“Our customers have used us to package and send such items as long yacht masts, architectural models and large sculptures,” adds Jane.

Many of these items are valuable so Pack & Send customers can use their warranty cover against loss or damage to secure that extra peace of mind – something not generally available when freighting goods of high value.

For those really delicate items like fine artworks, antiques or ceramics, Pack & Send can use its state of the art 'Foam in Place' packaging system, which forms a protective mould around the item, for safe transport.

"We also produce custom-made boxes to any size or shape," adds Jeremy. "Because we treat each consignment as unique, designing packaging and the freight solutions to suit, we're finding that more and more people benefit from our services.”

Pack & Send provides service, systems and packaging to make your freight experience as simple and smooth as possible. You don't need to open an account; they send anything, anywhere and take care of the hassles

The 'no limits' service they provide creates legions of raving fans, like Dennis M of Devonport:

“Gave Pack & Send a model ship 44 inches long and 36 inches high to send to USA. Left their shop Tuesday and received by my friend Utah Wednesday morning US time. Quick service and very well packed.” –

Dennis M of Devonport

Pack & Send Takapuna open Mon – Sat, located at 77 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna with exclusive and convenient parking outside. 09 486 3355 takapuna@packsend.co.nz and let them make sending easy.

By Simon Watts, North Shore MP

Putting gangs on notice

This softly, softly approach to gangs has fuelled crime and fear too long, and Chris Luxon has made it a priority to restore law and order in New Zealand.

Since Labour took office in 2017, gang numbers have increased by a staggering 66% and, recently, the Ōpōtiki community was forced to close down so gang members could hold a tangi.

I believe it is unacceptable that whole communities must bow to the illegal whims of criminals, especially when children are prevented from attending school. My message is clear – those who choose to align themselves with a gang and engage in criminal activities must face more severe consequences.

Membership of a gang will be an aggravating factor when it comes to sentencing, so gang members convicted of an offence will face tougher penalties for their crimes.

This initiative, along with a range of solutions we have already announced, will help restore law and order to New Zealand. These include:

• Banning gang patches in public places.

• Allowing police to issue dispersal notices where gang members come together in public to intimidate and threaten.

• Giving police non-association powers to prevent gang members from communicating and planning criminal activity.

• Giving police the warrant-less search powers they need to remove guns from violent gang members.

• Cracking down on serious youth offenders by creating young offender military academies.

By Tim Edmonds, CEO, Well Foundation

Community support helping create calming spaces for patients

Sensory modulation room upgrade

Thanks to support from the local community, mental health patients across the North Shore now have access to upgraded sensory modulation rooms to support their treatment.

Sensory modulation is a way of using senses such as sight, sound, smell, touch and movement to help the brain regulate its own activity, essentially managing how much of each input to tune into at any point in time. It can help someone to self-soothe and regulate their emotional response to a situation. This evidencebased approach can be offered alongside complementing support, such as talking therapy.

The latest sensory modulation room to be upgraded is within North Shore Hospital’s Emergency Department, and was made possible thanks to the generosity of the Rotary Club of East Coast Bays, which raised funds for the project through its annual golf day.

The dedicated room is now equipped with specially designed furniture, soothing imagery, low lighting and accessories such as weighted blankets. The dedicated low-stimulus environment helps healthcare teams provide the best care for mental health patients who often need a quiet, calm and private space.

Well Foundation has worked with the community to raise close to $70,000 to make the upgrade of these spaces possible for patients receiving care as inpatients, through community facilities, and now within the ED. Thank you to all who have generously provided support.

The Rotary Club of East Coast Bays will be holding its annual golf day fundraiser to support Well Foundation on Thursday 23 November at Waitemata Golf Club. If you would like to find out more, or register a team, please email info@wellfoundation.org.nz

As Christopher Luxon said, “Gangs pose a grave threat to New Zealand society. They thrive by preying on the most vulnerable individuals, peddling addiction, intimidation and widespread misery wherever they set up shop.”

Under a future government I am part of, communities like the Shore will be safer places to raise families.

Simon Watts, spokesperson for Climate Change, Local Government, Regional Development, Statistics, Assoc for Infrastructure, and Finance.

Email: simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz

09 486 0005

Facebook: @simonwattsmp Instagram: @simonwattsmp

Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitakere Hospitals and community health services in north and west Auckland. We raise funds for projects that wouldn’t otherwise be possible and support innovative approaches to providing care. Since 2015, Well Foundation has funded more than 80 projects, providing over $13.5 million for community health. 100% of donations to Well Foundation go directly to support health projects for the community. To find out more, visit wellfoundation.org.nz

Well Foundation

09 447 0138

info@wellfoundation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz

I believe it is unacceptable that whole communities must bow to the illegal whims of criminals, especially when children are prevented from attending school.

North Shore Hospital’s upgraded sensory modulation room

Your night out in terrific Takapuna

With fantastic bars and friendly vibes, we reckon Takapuna is the best place in Auckland to unwind after a long week, celebrate a special occasion, or simply let loose and have a good time.

The North Shore’s premier hotspot boasts an array of sensational bars and restaurants catering to all tastes and styles. Here’s the down-low on where to go for your next night out in Takapuna.

Where to go for: Live music

Love live music and dancing?

Then look no further than The Elephant Wrestler, offering live music nightly from some of our best local artists. Featuring live acoustic solo sets from 6–9pm weeknights, with a rotating selection of excellent bands playing Friday nights, and on Saturday nights it’s time to hit the dance floor, with live DJs ‘til late.

Get dressed to impress, grab your mates and get your music fix at The Elephant Wrestler.

Where to go for: Live sports

Takapuna Bar is the place to go if you’re a sports fan looking for a buzzing atmosphere to watch your favourite game.

They’ve got three dedicated areas decked out with giant screens covering all the day’s big games, whether it’s rugby, league, cricket, boxing, or whatever sport is hot off the box. Grab a drink and some bar snacks, and cheer on your favourite team with your buddies.

Where to go for: Late dining

If you’re feeling peckish and want a late-night bite, or perhaps a late date or get-together, look no further than Taylors on Hurstmere.

Offering an inspired menu of mouthwatering gems like the Jackfruit Bao Buns and Tequila Chicken, the food at Taylors is designed to be shared among friends.

And with an extensive drinks selection and a relaxed atmosphere to boot, you’re bound to have a fantastic evening at one of Auckland’s finest eateries.

Where to go for: Lively atmosphere

Experience the vibrant energy and exceptional ambience of one of Auckland’s most popular evening spots: Regatta Bar & Eatery.

Delicious kai, tasty beverages, and great people will make for a memorable night at Regatta! And if you want to get your groove on, check out the resident DJs spinning tunes from 5pm every Friday.

Where to go for: Open late bar

Revel in some renowned Irish hospitality late into the night every night at Florrie McGreal’s Irish Pub.

With friendly folk, good hearty food, toe-tapping tunes, and a well-stocked bar of lovely liquid offerings, you’re guaranteed a rollicking good time well past the stroke of midnight at Takapuna’s slice of Ireland.

Like and follow @ilovetakapuna on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with all things Takapuna!

GOLD SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Gold sponsors…

The North Shore’s premier hotspot boasts an array of sensational bars and restaurants catering to all tastes and styles.

New businesses open now in Takapuna!

Moak 102 Hurstmere Road

New to the café scene, we welcome Moak on Hurstmere Road. Bastiaan and Linh started a coffee cart in Christchurch, then took over distribution for Moak coffee in New Zealand and Australia, and now they’ve taken the big leap of branching out into a physical café! With a range of delicious, freshly baked cabinet goods, coffee, beans, and all your at-home coffeemaking accessories, make Moak the next place on your list to visit.

Together. 46 Hurstmere Road

(Laneway next to Starbucks)

Born from a whole-food bespoke catering business, Together. has just opened its second café on Hurstmere Rd. Together. stocks a range of delicious and nutritious cabinet food (sweet and savoury), salads, sandwiches, heat-and-eat meals, juices and of course, coffee – as well as meal plans and bespoke catering for meetings, events and weddings!

Portofino 132 Hurstmere Road

Portofino has re-opened a few doors down at 132 Hurstmere Rd, bringing another hearty Italian dining option to Takapuna. From delicious pastas, pizzas, steaks and desserts, Portofino focuses on combining traditional Italian recipes with the best local produce.

Daikouku 156 Hurstmere Road (Next to Wallace Cotton)

Definitely a fan and family favourite, Daikouku is now open again in its brand new space. For those that haven’t been – Daikouku is a unique dining experience of Japanese teppanyaki, where a chef cooks your meal on a sizzling hot plate right in front of you. If you’re looking for dinner and a show all in one – Daikouku is the place to visit!

Just Jess Boujee Bakery 10 Northcroft Street (Inside Amaia Showroom)

The boujee-est bakery has opened a pop-up in Takapuna! Serving Altura coffee, and the finest selection of fresh, hand-made, delectable doughnuts, scrolls and cookies – this is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. JJBB also does custom celebration cakes, cupcakes and more. Check out the website for the range, or pop in to the Amaia showroom to pick up a treat.

Birkenstock 3 Hurstmere Road

Another big brand is now open in Takapuna. Birkenstock has just opened its second New Zealand store, on the corner of Hurstmere and The Strand. The German footwear brand is excited to have its new store open, and thought Takapuna’s beach vibe worked perfectly with the Birkenstock brand and lifestyle – so it’s a nobrainer for the new store to be right here!

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

the

#supportlocal

YARNTONS

Heat Holders women's and men's robes. Plush, fur-like thermal fleece for maximum warmth and an incredibly soft and snug feel.

18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 418 4011 69 Victoria Road, Devonport 09 445 3479 yarntons.co.nz

SHORE PHOTO GIFTS

Perfect gifts for friends and family. Check out our other amazing photo gift ideas at: shorephotogifts.co.nz

FITZGERALD

TAYLOR

Boutique stationer, home of a thoughtfully curated selection of fine stationery. New in store: fountain pens and ink from Esterbrook. Shop 2, 2 Queens Parade, Devonport fitzgeraldtaylor.co.nz

FLORIENNE

Little ray of sunshine on a cold winter's day: Florienne, a treasure trove of flowers in the heart of Takapuna. 60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz

CRAVEHOME

Are you heading away somewhere warm for the holidays? Buy one Dock & Bay beach towel and get a second for 50% off! They’re quick drying, compact and don’t hang onto sand - why wouldn’t you want to take a couple away with you?

30 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 419 9535 cravehome.co.nz

SILVERMOON - GLENFIELD MALL

A joyous take on the wavy ring, Karen Walker's sterling silver Expressionist Ring is now available at Silvermoon, Glenfield Mall. Glenfield Mall, Level 3 09 218 9609 silvermoon.co.nz

COSI FAN TUTTE

New season rainwear by Danish company 'Rains' is now in store and online at Cosi Fan Tutte. 73 Victoria Road, Devonport, 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz Instagram @cosifantutte_devonport

WALLACE COTTON

Style inviting spaces you’ll love coming home to this winter. Our soft sleep essentials and cosy homeware pieces are made from the finest natural fabrics for living with a little luxury every day. Immerse yourself in the Wallace Cotton experience at our beautiful Takapuna store located at 156 Hurstmere Road with easy parking nearby.

156 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, 09 551 7767 wallacecotton.com

THE SHEEPSKIN FACTORY

Keep warm and comfy!

34 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 2679

thesheepskinfactory.co.nz

9-5pm Mon - Sat, 10-5pm Sundays

CITY HALL

Update your space with a fresh piece of art. Amazing new collection of prints just in from Copenhagen, Denmark. Available in store and online.

406 Lake Rd, Takapuna 09 394 2954

hello@cityhall.store

Facebook Instagram @cityhall.store cityhall.store

the

#supportlocal

RESENE COLORSHOP

It’s even easier to make an eco choice with Resene’s growing range of plant-based paints. Resene’s plant-based paints include Eco Choice approved Resene Room Velvet low sheen for interior walls and Resene Waterborne Lusta-Glo semi-gloss for trims, giving you a durable low odour finish that will keep your home looking good.

1 Auburn St, Takapuna 09 489 1540

2 Tawa Drive, Albany 09 414 6500

8 Croftfield Lane, Wairau Park 09 444 4387

SPERO CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR

Shop the sale .

Up to 50% off

19 Mokoia Rd, Birkenhead 09 419 9781 spero.co.nz

SHORE PHOTO GIFTS

Perfect gifts for friends and family. Check out our other amazing photo gift ideas at: shorephotogifts.co.nz

FIESTA BALLOONS

Introducing the Balloon Bar at Fiesta Balloons! Our helium balloons are now available for pickup in store whenever you need them. Our store hours feature everyday balloon blowing, so feel free to book ahead for guaranteed availability or pop into the store to check out the selection.

0800-FIESTA info@fiestadesign.co.nz

G1/10 Auburn Street, Takapuna fiestadesign.co.nz

Facebook @FiestaDesignNZ Instagram @fiestaballoonsnz

#Gramworthy

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

Josephine Fryer is the director of Belloro Fine Jewellery. Originally a qualified interior designer, she saw a need for a modern contemporary jewellery store stocking exclusive European brands not seen in New Zealand before. Jo set up her first jewellery store, Platina Jewellery, located at Milford Mall, in 2009. A couple of years later, she opened Belloro Fine Jewellery in Newmarket. After being in Newmarket for 10 years, Jo and her husband Tony decided to move back to the North Shore and settled on relocating Belloro Fine Jewellery to 24 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna (in between Lululemon and Paper Plus). She has a brand-new collection of Nanis Italian jewels, which she stocks exclusively in New Zealand. Jo talks to Channel Mag about her inspiration on Insta and what’s next.

Channel Magazine: Is Instagram a source of inspiration for Belloro? Who do you recommend following and why?

Yes, Instagram is definitely a source of inspiration for Belloro Fine Jewellery. I am always looking for new, unique luxury international jewellery brands to introduce to New Zealand and I use the platform to do this.

Which other local businesses/artists do social media well?

I still love looking at what happening in the interior design world and seeing great local food. I love @boconcept_nz, @florienne.flowers @stanleyavenuewine @tokyobaynz and @glasssushiboutique

What’s next for Belloro Fine Jewellery?

We will be introducing some new exciting international jewellery brands, never seen before in New Zealand, which people can expect to see on the gram soon.

belloro.co.nz

@bellorofinejewellery • 24 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, Auckland

Botanics NZ in Birkenhead is a beautiful boutique florist that also has lovely vintage ceramics available to buy in store.

@botanticsnz

We can’t wait for the Matariki Market in Takapuna on 15 July – stalls, food, products and more!

@ilovetakapuna

Our slippers are the most-used item in our wardrobe right now and we love this idea from Sheepskin Factory on Barrys Point Road.

@thesheepskinfactorynz

Josephine Fryer

Takapuna Winter Lights bigger than ever in 2023!

Four nights of fun in Takapuna, 27-30 July, 5pm-10pm

By Aidan Bennett

Takapuna Beach Business Association ceo Terence Harpur is fizzing about the 2023 Takapuna Winter Lights Festival taking place in the town centre in late July. He’s not alone. The team at Channel Mag shares his excitement, which is why the event features on our July cover for the second year in a row.

Terence reckons that Takapuna Winter Lights is probably now the biggest free event on the Shore, taking place across Hurstmere Road, Hurstmere Green and Waiwharariki Anzac Town Square from 27-30 July. It is a destination event that draws not only people from all over the Shore, but also from over the bridge and around New Zealand. Between 45,000 and 50,000 people are expected for the 2023 festival, which runs from 5-10pm across four nights.

The 2021 iteration was a great event, even though it was sandwiched between Covid lockdowns. So good, in fact, that the two-night spectacle was increased to four nights in 2022.

“I love the fact that this is an event that brings the community together,” explained Terence, when we met for a chat in Takapuna in mid-June as final plans were coming together. “This is an event for everyone: all ages and abilities. It’s for the whole family. Attendees can immerse themselves in the splendour of all the wonderful art and lighting installations, music and performances that make up this special event."

Terence Harpur

Kathryn Nobbs Photography

“A neat thing is that a good piece of our new town square, which is under construction, is going to be available to use this time. This will provide more space for the 2023 event.”

The event is being curated once again by award-winning light artist Angus Muir and Takapuna local event producer Dan Move.

One of the festival highlights is an interactive device-free augmented reality piece involving a live-view camera that brings to life the story of the journeys early Māori took from Kaipara to Takapuna. A live camera view will be projected onto a wall with overlaid imagery of the warrior runners allowing viewers to share space with them in real time. This installation is called Te Ara o te Whenua Roa o Kahu.

Young folk from local schools, including Takapuna Primary and Campbells Bay Early Learning Centre, will also be contributing to the festival. Their native bird and te reo artworks will be featured, using animation and projection to bring together science, art, and language.

Music and dance performance is also set to light up the festival. Takapuna Grammar students and others will provide on-the-hour performances on the new Waiwharariki Anzac Town Square. There will be jazz and ballet-style dancing, streetstyle musical performances from guitar and keyboard players, as well as talented duos and individual musicians. Nathan Fry is one solo performer who will ensure the crowd is entertained with popular cover hits.

Over the four nights, the public can explore light installations and interactive elements at their leisure along Hurstmere Road, Hurstmere Green and Waiwharariki Anzac Town Square. The best time to see everything is once it gets dark, when the light installations will be shining brightly and the interactive elements will be on show.

One of the festival highlights is an interactive device-free augmented reality piece…

Photo: Brett Phibbs

Photo: Brett Phibbs

Kathryn Nobbs Photography

Photo: David Watson

Photo: David Watson

Photo: Claire Fuller

Angus Muir and Dan Move

Four additional ticketed events are happening as part of the Takapuna Winter Lights and Elemental AKL festival. Regatta Bar hosts ‘Step Out with Peter Urlich’ on Saturday 22 July ($69.92). 'Witness for the Prosecution' by Agatha Christie is on at The PumpHouse Theatre from 20-30 July (from $21). There is an Immersive audio hikoi (walk) under the night sky on Friday 28 ($17), and Lux Vinum is a wine and food event at Street Organics with Mount Edward Wines on Saturday 29 July.

“Our restaurants and eateries will be in full swing, and we are encouraging all our businesses to open up and get involved,” adds Terence. “There will be stalls, food trucks and vendors to ensure everyone is satisfied while they take in all the action.

“I also want to say a big thank you to our dedicated organisers, generous supporters and sponsors. These include Silo, AMD, Go Media, Devonport Takapuna Local Board, Willis Bond, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Benefitz and Channel Magazine.”

Takapuna Winter Lights is brought to you by Takapuna Beach Business Association and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, as part of Auckland’s Elemental AKL festival. Billed as a ‘captivating programme of arts, eats and beats’, the Elemental AKL festival runs from 20 July to 6 August and includes more than 100 free and ticketed events across the city involving publics spaces, theatres, business and hospitality precincts.

For more information on Takapuna Winter Light Festival visit: winterlights.nz

Immersive audio hikoi (walk) under the night sky on Friday 28 June

($17 per person)

For $17 you get a wonderful hikoi (walk) experience along Takapuna Beach brought to you by award-winning creative agency at Papaya Stories and Takapuna Boating Club. During the walk you will listen to the purakau (stories of origin) of the land underfoot through a recorded headset.

($69.48 per person)

July

Street Organics is one of our much-loved local eateries and they’ve got together with Mount Edward Wines to host an “exploration of wine and light” with consummate wine lush Jake Tipler. A great event for wine lovers – wine tasting that investigates just how much light and food can change one wine! Bookings essential. Two sittings, 6.30pm-8pm and 8.30pm-10pm.

Step Out - Peter Urlich Swingin' Sextet on Saturday 22 July

Join us for a night of champagne cocktails and Sinatra! Starring the sensational Peter Urlich Swingin’ Sextet live on stage. Then we’re stepping it up with a very special live DJ set as General Lee joins Peter Urlich for a back-to-back DJ set. 22 July, 7pm.

For ticketed events above, book at winterlights.nz

Lux Vinum at Street Organics with Mount Edward Wines on Saturday 29

Perfect for entertaining

This kitchen, by Michelle Gillbanks from Kitchens By Design, was designed to fit seamlessly into a brand-new holiday home in the Coromandel. The clients' brief was for something different from the minimal kitchen in their architecturally designed family home, while providing a functional, user-friendly space for their friends and family to enjoy throughout the year.

Michelle set about creating a warm and welcoming space with organic and earthy hues, materials and textures – even incorporating a space high up on the back wall for a spread of high-quality faux plants that can be washed in the dishwasher when needed. However, the kitchen still needed a modern edge to fit seamlessly with the contemporary aesthetic of her client’s home.

“From a functional point of view, it needed to be capable of entertaining upwards of 20 people at any given time, and having the storage capability for up to 10 guests’ holiday food, platters, wine and beer was essential,” says Michelle. To achieve this, the designer incorporated a large, working scullery that houses a fridge-freezer and tall storage for food, drinks, and all those platters. Dayto-day items are kept in the main kitchen, along with a bar area for coffee-making and drink preparation.

Easy-clean and low-maintenance surfaces were also crucial for the clients, as the house could be vacant for long periods. In response, hardwearing Dekton was specified for the island benchtop, with the same material in a different finish chosen for the feature splashback. Paired with the plants above, it provides a stylish backdrop to the kitchen.

The experienced team at Kitchens By Design offers an integrated design-to-completion service. If you're looking for a new kitchen, please call 09 379 3084 to make an appointment with one of their designers. Kitchens By Design's showroom is located at 9 Melrose Ave, Newmarket. For inspiration, take a look at some fabulous projects at kitchensbydesign.co.nz

Local pharmacy excited to provide free health consultations and treatments this winter

Devonport 7 Day Pharmacy welcomes the announcement that pharmacies nationwide can now provide health consultations and treatments for a range of common conditions this winter, free for eligible patients.

Owner Nancy Nasef comments, “We can now safely and efficiently dispense a wide range of medicines, including prescription and non-prescription treatments for the most common ailments and medical conditions.”

Conditions covered:

• Acute diarrhoea/vomiting/dehydration

• Bacterial eye infections

• Eye inflammation

• Pain/fever

• Scabies/head lice

• Eczema/dermatitis

• Minor skin infections.

Free health consultation and treatment services are available for the following eligible patients:

• All Māori and Pasifika people

• All children under 14 years old, or whānau of a child with similar symptoms*

(*if the pharmacist dispenses medicine for one child and other family members also have symptoms, they may give advice and medicine to all of you)

• All Community Service Card (CSC) holders..

If you don’t meet the free eligibility criteria, pharmacists are able to provide advice about your health condition, appropriate treatment options and let you know whether you should also see your doctor or another healthcare provider.

Nancy is excited to be able to offer this free service to her local community, saying, “You and your family’s health and wellbeing are

at the centre of everything we do. We care that the people in our community can trust our team of friendly professionals to provide advice and solutions to help you live happily and live well.

“It is really important to me to feel like I am serving the community," she continues, "and that I am there for my community. Please call in and make a time to see us for trusted advice to help you to manage your condition. We can provide treatment options including medicine, or if your condition needs further support, we can recommend the best place for you to go."

If you need more advice, Nancy encourages you to come into Devonport 7 Day Pharmacy to talk with highly qualified professionals about anything that you may have concerns about.

This free service runs from Monday 12 June to Saturday 30 September 2023.

Devonport 7 Day Pharmacy 09 445 4000 devonport7daypharmacy.co.nz Facebook 247pharmacy.co.nz

You and your family’s health and wellbeing are at the centre of everything we do.

Nancy Nasef

Relocation, relocation, relocation!

Dr. Teresa Burns, audiologist and business owner, is pleased to be fulfilling a long-held dream with the move to her new premises. She says, “I’ve wanted to have my own clinic space, with reception, parking and multiple clinic rooms, since I started my practice in 2015. I’m thrilled to have found this gorgeous new space and be moving in.

“Our new clinic will have three clinic rooms with ear, nose and throat and podiatry specialists also visiting regularly.”

Teresa has over 25 years’ experience as an audiologist and offers services including hearing tests, hearing aid fittings and repairs, micro suction wax removal and tinnitus consultations. She prides herself on being an independent practice that works with all the major hearing aid brands and prioritises personalised, friendly services with world class clinical standards. She says, “I love being an audiologist. It’s a great combination of working with people and technology. I really enjoy helping people.”

The new clinic will feature three clinic rooms with ear, nose and throat and podiatry specialists visiting regularly. The location is easy to find, close to the Constellation Drive intersection.

Teresa is opening the new clinic on Monday 3 July and is offering a special offer to mark the occasion. Clients will receive a free TV streamer device on selected brands of hearing aids purchased. See below for more information.

If you need help with your hearing, have questions about hearing aid technology or need a repair, or need wax removal, book in to see Teresa at her new clinic.

Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd 25 Apollo Drive, Rosedale 09 475 9849 admin@teresaburnshearing.co.nz teresaburnshearing.co.nz

Teresa Burns Hearing, a locally owned and operated audiology clinic, is excited to announce the clinic will be relocating to a spacious new office at 25 Apollo Drive, Rosedale.

Healing treatments for optimal health

Theta Chamber and bioptron B2 light therapy

Devonport Wellness offers unique Theta Chamber therapy (the only one available in New Zealand), and bioptron B2 light therapy. These treatments have been widely accessible across Europe and North America for years, and have been clinically proven to be safe and effective. Donna Redward at Devonport Wellness is incredibly excited to bring this cutting-edge technology to New Zealand, and it's available right here on the North Shore!

As these treatments are a new concept here, it's worth taking a deeper look into what the therapies are, and how they work.

Theta chamber therapy is a safe, non-invasive way to improve brain function by forging new neural pathways via an induced theta brainwave state. It's a remarkable piece of technology that specifically affects mental health by temporarily shifting a person’s brainwave activity to a 'theta state'. This is when the brain shifts its focus from sensory perception – the conscious – to the subconscious. Once in the theta state, the theta chamber affects brainwaves and renews the mechanisms by which information is processed. All this enables deep brain learning, healing and growth. As well as opening the brain to suggestion, learning and healing, it signals the hypothalamus to return to producing normal levels of serotonin, dopamine and other neurotransmitters. It also encourages the brain to create new, normal neural pathways. Theta chamber therapy uses cranial-electrotherapy stimulation (CES), which is US FDA-approved; a noninvasive, electro-medical treatment that has been shown to significantly decrease anxiety, insomnia and depression.

Bioptron lights are Swiss-patented medical devices used extensively in hospitals around

the world. The polarised light emitted treats a wide range of medical and cosmetic applications by stimulating blood circulation and tissue regeneration, while also reducing inflammation. Along with regeneration of damaged skin, bioptron light provides significant immune correction, generating positive, systemic healing. Pain, inflammation and swelling are reduced, wound healing is accelerated and there is a significant reduction in scarring.

These therapies can be particularly effective for those struggling with dementia, PTSD, anxiety, depression or other mental health issues. With just a few applications, patients can experience significant improvements in their symptoms and overall quality of life.

Results so far have been excellent, based on the feedback from clients:

"I can function again for the first time since my accident four years ago. I can go into meetings and actually participate and I feel energised afterwards, instead of completely exhausted." (Client with concussion).

• "That was amazing!""

• "I feel so much lighter, clearer and very relaxed."

• "I am sleeping so well!"

• "I feel peaceful deep inside myself."

• "I felt a lot of clarity. I could think clearly."

• "I feel joyful.

• "Wow....that was very different. I feel really good and so relaxed."

Sessions are one hour long and cost $160 per session. Four sessions provide an optimal reset experience. Special package deal for four sessions: $540 (saving $100)

Devonport Wellness

Shop 5, The Arcade, 15 Victoria Road, Devonport 027 777 5530 info@devonportwellness.co.nz devonportwellness.co.nz

A milestone month for Wilson Home Trust

July 24 is a significant day for the Wilson Home Trust. On that day in 1937, the first patients were transferred from Auckland Hospital to the Home.

Since then, a variety of services have been provided to children and young people with physical disabilities and support offered to their families. Located on the corner of Lake Road and St. Leonard’s Road opposite Takapuna Grammar School, Wilson Home Trust has been working alongside families of children who stay at the Home, as well as offering support to those living in the community all that time.

The Home was owned by Robert and Lucinda Wilson, who decided to gift it to the ‘Crippled Children of Auckland’.

Although we are based in Takapuna, where services are provided in partnership with a number of agencies, our reach goes beyond the North Shore and, indeed, the Auckland boundaries. The area we cover, which was known as the Auckland Region in 1937, went from the top of the North Island down to Gisborne on the East Coast. Outside of Auckland, we support people with financial grants for equipment that can’t easily be accessed or help them find community resources in local areas.

On the Lake Road site, the Trust has just embarked on a massive undertaking to redevelop six villas that were originally built 40 years ago. These have provided a home away from home for many young children, as their parents have some respite time. The redevelopment will make the units more fit for purpose, fitted-out with equipment to make the care of children much easier.

A new play area is also planned. Earlier this year we also upgraded the chapel, which sits on the Lake Road site, to meet earthquake strengthening standards. The (non-denominational) chapel is regularly used for weddings, which contributes to its upkeep.

The local community has always been supportive of the Wilson Home Trust, and anyone who would like to know more about the work we do or donate to us is invited to go to our website wilsonhometrust.org.nz

Or visit our Facebook page facebook.com/wilsonhometrust1/

Outside of Auckland, we support people with financial grants for equipment that can’t easily be accessed or help them find community resources in local areas.

Here’s how we’re working to help our community

Cost of living

We’ve extended 20 hours free Early Childhood Education to two-year-olds, helping families with the cost of childcare.

Reducing power bills by making homes more energy efficient with the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme, as well as helping over a million people through the Winter Energy Payment.

Safety

We’re keeping our communities safe, delivering an additional 16% more Police officers in Auckland since 2017, and expanding community policing teams across the Shore.

We’re supporting North Shore retailers via the recently expanded Fog Cannon Subsidy Scheme, and through the Retail Crime Prevention Programme which we’ve more than doubled our investment into. We’ve also expanded a circuit breaker programme targeting recidivist child offenders into Auckland City.

Housing

The Northcote Development is on-track to see 1,700 affordable market and new public homes completed by 2026.

Through the Housing Acceleration Fund we’re providing upgrades to watermains, sewage, including a $13 million stormwater provision in the Northcote Development.

Transport

The Additional Waitematā Harbour Connections project will start in 2029, this is a crucial link in our community and will create up to 97,000 new jobs.

We’re permanently cutting public transport costs for young Kiwis, making public transport free for children under-13s, and half price for under 25s

Health

We’ve invested $61.4 million for mental health locally, through Mason Clinic Unit upgrade & Youth Mental Wellbeing Fund helping Shore Junction support local youth aged 13–24.

The North Shore Hospital upgrade in 2018 saw the Government invest $200 million into a new elective surgery unit comprising of 120 hospital beds and four operating theatres.

If you or your family require any support from my office, please contact:

0800 222 007 or shanan.halbert@parliament.govt.nz

Shanan Halbert MP for Northcote

The Service Hub

Glenfield Mall is the perfect place for you to come and get all your servicing needs! Check out some of our best.

Waterless Vehicle Wash & Valet. Treat your car with the best services whilst caring for the Earth.

Smile Dental’s vision is to be New Zealand’s best dental group. Being the best means that they always strive to excel in everything they do. Their caring team provides the highest quality dental services so that their customers are happy they chose Smile Dental.

The perfect gift everytime! With great shopping hours, 25 eateries and cafes as well as over 100 different retail stores and no expiry date, they will be spoilt for choice!

Want a quality Style Cut cut from an experienced hairdresser? Just Cuts have got you covered! They specialise in cutting for men, women and children of any age.

The Cosmetic Clinic are the experts in laser hair removal, cosmetic injectables and skincare treatments, performed by qualified, experienced clinicians to help enhance your natural beauty and help you look and feel like the best version of you.

The best choice for style, value and expertise. Specsavers is New Zealand’s #1 optometrist. With over 1000 pairs of glasses to choose from in every store.

Mister Minit specialises in the services of Shoe Repairs, Key Cutting, Engraving, Watch Service, Car Keys & Remotes Controls.

At Deluxe Nails and Spa they guarantee high-quality beauty services. Get your nails looking beautiful for the winter season. For a day of relaxation look no further than Deluxe Nails and Spa.

LookSmart Alterations is the world’s largest clothing alterations, tailoring and stylist company. For over 25 years, they have provided customers with the correct fit that compliments their unique style and body type.

Relax and de-stress the body with a neck and shoulder massage or take it to the next level with a full body massage.

MATARIKI

CRAFTS AT GLENFIELD MALL

Meet Glenfield Library out in the community with their School Holiday programme.

Thursday 6 July 10AM – 3PM

Colour in your own Māori patterned bookmark

Thursday 13 July 10AM – 3PM

Create your own glittering Matariki star

Celebrate the Women’s Fifa World Cup kick-off with Glenfield Mall.

Come have a go in the

HUNGERBALL ARENA

Sat 22nd July & Sun 23rd July

Mall hours

Mrs. Brynyce Owen

Harbour Hospice opens multi-million-dollar Shore base

Double celebrations took place in late June as Harbour Hospice marked 40 years of care in the community alongside its new North Shore site’s official opening.

More than 200 generous donors, supporters, local businesses, staff and volunteers gathered at Harbour Hospice in Takapuna on Saturday 24 June to formally celebrate the end of an ambitious multi-million-dollar redevelopment project.

The official opening took on an extra special meaning, as 2023 also marks 40 years of hospice care in the community. Harbour Hospice Chief Executive Jan Nichols acknowledged ‘the unwavering support and loyalty of the community’.

“Forty years ago, a pioneering group of volunteers started the very first hospice on the North Shore. We now care for more than 1200 patients and their families from Devonport to Te Hana each year, with more than 230 staff and 1200 volunteers,” she said.

“This vital redevelopment is a critical moment in Harbour Hospice history, giving us the ability to care for more people young and old, extend our reach into the community and lead the way in providing world-class, specialist end-of-life care.”

The charity reached out to the community to raise the $10 million needed to meet its ambitious $20 million target.

“I already know this community is generous, but their loyalty to Harbour Hospice and belief in this project has been deeply humbling,” said Jan.

More than 100 individuals, couples, families, trusts, foundations and businesses made gifts to the project, she said. “We can’t thank them enough. We wouldn’t be here today, and the future would be very uncertain, without that support.”

The remaining $10 million was contributed from the North Shore Development Foundation built up by Hospice over many years. The new and improved facilities have 15 patient rooms, a dedicated family and whānau area with two bedrooms, outpatient, counselling, therapy, day programme and training rooms, and a commercial-grade kitchen in addition to improved facilities for its interdisciplinary team of specialist nurses, doctors, family support team, therapists and specially trained volunteers to provide 24/7 care and more.

Demand for palliative care across the region is expected to increase by 50% in the next 14 years, and 90% in the next 40 years. And it’s not just the demand for inpatient beds that’s growing, Nichols says.

“Throughout their illness, people receive most of their care at home (or the place they call home) and 37% of people in our care die in their own home. This facility will enable us to extend our work out in the community, increasing our impact, care and support to more people.

“This facility is funded entirely by the community, for everyone right across Harbour Hospice. We are so very proud of what we’ve achieved together, which will serve the community for decades to come.”

Jan Nichols and Ann Tod with Harbour Hospice Kaumatua Reverend John Marsden and The Right Reverend Te Kitohi Pikaahu, the Anglican Bishop of Te Tai Tokerau

Jan Nichols

Sprint star soaring after supreme win

By Heather Barker Vermeer

This year’s AIMES Supreme Award winner Zoe Hobbs is enjoying success on and off the track. She spoke to Channel’s Heather Barker Vermeer in mid-June.

It was more than 20 years before Zoe Hobbs was born that New Zealand last had a female sprinter in a major international 100m final. Her blistering start to the 2023 sprint season suggests she may be on a trajectory towards achieving this feat – her recent AIMES Supreme Award win bolstering her chances of success on the world stage.

The North Shore athlete burst out of the blocks at the World Indoor Athletics Championships in Belgrade last year in a race that marked her elevation onto the world sprint stage. Her 7.13 second 60 metres turned heads, landing her an Oceania 60m record and placing her just outside the top ten female indoor sprinters in the world. (She missed a final place by2/100ths of a second.) Not bad, for what was only the second time she had ever entered the short sprint event.

A World Athletics Championships outdoor 100m semi-final last year and a sixth place in at the 2022 Commonwealth Games were built on in fine style in her first races of 2023. In her season opener at the New Zealand nationals, she was coming back from in injury.

Her performance, and the way she built on this in her subsequent 100m season openers, surprised even her. “It’s really exciting,” says Zoe. “I didn’t expect to open the season the way I did. I’d just had a hamstring injury and I approached my first races of the season just wanting to feel healthy!”

She broke the elusive sub-11 second 100m mark with a blistering 10.89 second run, but with an illegal wind limit. She followed this with a legal 10.97 however, at the 2023 Sydney Track Classic, earning herself not only a New Zealand record but an Australian all-comers record.

“Being in such a relaxed state of mind meant I had no expectations. That really took a weight off my shoulders. When you are trying to chase a specific time, it can add so much pressure. But I didn’t feel this as I wasn’t expecting that much from myself. I just wanted to finish these races feeling fit.”

The North Shore athlete burst out of the blocks at the World Indoor Athletics Championships in Belgrade earlier this year in a race that marked her elevation onto the world sprint stage.

Zoe Hobbs with AIMES Supreme Award trophy, being presented by Mike Atkinson, President, North Harbour Club, Liz Blackwell, Patron, North Harbour Club, and 2022 AIMES Supreme Award winner Zoe White

Her sub-11 second performances gained her entry into the prestigious International Diamond League. A fifth place in a top calibre international sprint field in Doha on May 6 this year was an undisputed announcement of her talent on the world athletics stage.

“Going under 11 seconds was a pretty incredible moment. That three-week period was madness for me! Even though I knew I was capable of running it [a sub-11 second 100m], I didn’t expect it to happen so early in the season. Sometimes when you run your best race, you don’t actually feel like it was your best race. It wasn’t until I heard it over the loud speaker that I realised what time I’d run.”

The 25 year-old has spent much of the past decade training at AUT Millennium with its nationally incomparable athletics facilities, and has made the Shore her home. She’s lived in various parts of the North Shore since moving to Auckland from Taranaki in 2016. After a trip to Europe for the northern hemisphere’s summer athletics season, she will be settling into a new place in Birkenhead.

Zoe also chose to study at university on the Shore, completing a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition at Massey University. Since then, she has co-founded Athos, a nutrition business and app, alongside her burgeoning athletics career.

Being recognised for her excellence in sport by members of the North Harbour Club in the region she loves at last month’s AIMES Awards was a huge moment for Zoe.

“It was a real shock,” she says, with wide eyes. “I had never been to an AIMES Award event; it was such an amazing occasion to be a part of. There was so much incredible talent on display, I was absolutely blown away.

“There’s no way I expected my name to be called out when they were announcing the Supreme Award at the end. I had to wing the second speech I ended up having to make – I honestly hadn’t prepared for that at all!”

Zoe took home both the AIMES Sport Award and AIMES Supreme Award, winning $30,000 towards the pursuit of her goals. These include the upcoming 2023 World Athletics Championships in Belgrade in August and qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“I’m so grateful for this funding, which will help me work towards my Paris Olympic goals. It’s such a generous prize. I’m so grateful for this support.”

Despite chasing big goals, Zoe is mindful of staying grounded and keeping it fun. “To stay motivated I have to set goals. I am so driven by having a goal to work towards and achieve. I love a challenge; that’s how I keep my love of sport and keep pushing.

“I am really lucky to have the support team I have around me, who help manage the mental and physical sides of competing.” Zoe has been with her coach James Mortimer since 2016 and engages with various high performance sport professionals.

“The biggest thing, to me, is to have fun. That’s when I have performed at my best – when I have been relaxed and having fun. That’s what sport is meant to be about.”

THURSDAY 17 AUGUST 2023

B:HIVE AUDITORIUM, SMALES FARM

5:30PM TALK STARTS

(5PM DOORS OPEN AND NETWORKING)

North Shore Women Leaders Event

Empowering and connecting ambitious women with opportunities to hear from an inspirational speaker, participate in networking activities, and engage with other likeminded women. (This event is not just limited to the ladies).

Pre-event Networking: B:HIVE foyer

Keynote speech by Alexia about her Leadership Journey

Audience Q&A

Post Event Networking at Fantail & Turtle (One free beverage on arrival)

Alexia Hilbertidou - Speaker, Advocate & Entrepreneur

Described by the NZ Herald as the Headmistress of Gen Z, Alexia is the founder of GirlBoss NZ - NZ’s largest organisation for young women. Founded when Alexia was just 16, GirlBoss now has 13,500 members.

Alexia’s mission is to get women to the table - the boardroom table that is, and she believes the decisions made while young are crucial in paving the way.

Alexia has received over 30 awards for her work, including being named Pacific Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Semi-Finalist for Young New Zealander of the Year, the Most Influential NZ Woman under 25 at the Westpac Women of Influence Award, Forbes 30 under 30, a National Geographic Explorer, and Finalist for World Young Entrepreneur of the Year.

Alexia was also awarded a Queen’s Young Leader Award for Services to the Commonwealth by Her Majesty, The Queen, at Buckingham Palace. She was selected from over 20,000 nominations and is the youngest Commonwealth Citizen to hold this honour.

Through her jaw-dropping stories, Alexia proves that you are never too young (or too short) to create change.

BOOK NOW

Numbers are limited. Includes beverage on arrival. RSVP by 11 August 2023 including any guests to info@northharbourclub.co.nz

Zoe Hobbs after her 2023 AIMES Supreme Award win, with Hilary Barry, event MC

AIMES Award 2023 Winners

There were 26 recipients of AIMES Awards in 2023 across three categories of awards which carried grants worth over $200,000. This includes AIMES letter awards (AIMES = Arts; Innovation; Music; Education; Sport; Service to the Community and two special awards), AIMES Emerging Talent Awards and AIMES Scholarship Awards. The full list of the 2023 recipients is detailed below.

AIMES Award winners for 2023

• AIMES Supreme Award and Sport Award – Zoe Hobbs (25), athlete/ sprinter

Receiving a grant of $30,000 and the Sir Peter Blake Trophy.

• AIMES Arts Award – Asa Waller (19), ballet dancer

• AIMES Innovation Award – Alexia Hilbertidou (24), entrepreneur

• AIMES Music Award – Tayla Alexander (22), singer

• AIMES Education Award – Lily Holloway (24), writer/poet

• AIMES Sports Award – Cameron Gray (19), swimmer

• AIMES Service to the Community Award – Spencer Potbury (23), scientist and conservationist. All letter winners above receive a grant of $15,000.

• AIMES Judges Award – Joshua Kirk (25), musical conductor (receiving a grant of $10,000).

• AIMES Ross Finlayson Award – Jannik Wittgen (21), engineer and community leader (receiving an Outward Bound course).

AIMES Emerging Talent Award winners for 2023

• Anja Filip (18), environmental Leader

• Henry Meng (18), pianist

• Liku Sipkes (19), diver

• Maggie Squire (17), diver

• Rico Bearman (19), BMX athlete

• Sarina Todd (20), community leader and innovator

• Sienna Going (16), ballet dancer

All Emerging Talent winners above receive a grant of $7,500.

AIMES Scholarship Award Recipients for 2023

• Alfie Steedman (16), athlete/runner

• Benji Groen (14), ballet dancer

• George Lee Rush (18), sailor

• Seb Menzies (18), sailor

• Isabelle Ning (13), chess player

• Jaden Movold (19), para athlete

• Lauren Wycherley (14), ballet dancer

• Madeleine Xiao (18), pianist

• Shan Liu (13), pianist

• Yuzhang Wu (16), pianist

All Scholarship winners above receive a grant of $3000.

For more information visit northharbourclub.co.nz

AIMES Emerging Talent and Scholarship Award recipients 2023 with sponsors, judges and North Harbour Club members

AIMES Award recipients 2023: Alexia Hilbertidou, Cameron Gray, Zoe Hobbs, Spencer Potbury, Jannik Wittgen, Tayla Alexander, Joshua Kirk, Asa Waller

Local sports good sorts

We have some fantastic charitable and community sports organisations here on the Shore, the majority of which rely on the devotion of good sorts volunteering their time to keep the organisations running smoothly. This month, we share the stories of some of our local sports’ good sorts who give up their precious time for the community groups they love so much. They all have their own stories, but their dedication is clear; most of them have been in their volunteer roles for decades and absolutely love what they do.

Robyne’s devoted to bowls

As well as meeting her husband through bowls, the sport is part of Robyne Walker’s family history; two of her ancestors (including a grandfather) are members of the Bowls New Zealand Hall of Fame.

President of Takapuna Bowling Club and Chair of Bowls North Harbour, Robyne lives on the Shore with her husband, Brett O’Riley. They raised their two children in Northcote Point, Rothesay Bay, Hillcrest and Milford, and the family also had a two-year stint living in Western Australia. Robyne talks about why she volunteers and shares some of her sport-related highlights over the years.

What do you love about being involved in sport of bowls?

I love that bowls is a game for all ages, all walks of life, ethnicities, and abilities, played in a friendly and supportive environment. I started playing in my 20s and met Brett through bowls. I then stopped for over 30 years, while I pursued my career and raised our family, restarting in 2017 to play in the World Masters Games. I have been able, with my club mates, to win two New Zealand title gold medals and several silver and bronze medals since then – what we have called, ‘The Takapuna Blue Wave’.

How long have you volunteered in the sport and how did you get into it?

I was given the opportunity to volunteer as the Takapuna Club secretary from my first season back playing in 2017 and had the time

2021, when I also joined the Bowls North Harbour board and became chairperson during this season.

What are some highlights of your volunteering experience?

My biggest highlights are Takapuna winning the Bowls New Zealand Club of the Year in 2021, the work we did supporting our club members during the Covid lockdowns, and our growth in membership since 2017 (to over 200) with a significant increase in engagement in club playing and social activities. We are looking at some big transformation opportunities for Bowls North Harbour – watch this space!

Why would you recommend volunteering to others?

There is great personal satisfaction from helping create sporting experiences for people to enjoy as part of a functioning community, whether they are competitive or social members. I also enjoy developing processes and systems that enable volunteers to administrate more productively.

How important are volunteers to your sport and the local community?

Volunteers make our sport what it is, and the number involved is a great sign of a club’s health. It helps create a great experience for members and others in the community, through programmes like corporate bowls, Krak-a-Jack, and secondary schools’ bowls.

What do you do for enjoyment outside your volunteering role? Playing competitively for Takapuna and North Harbour at the highest level is great fun and very fulfilling. I attended the Commonwealth Games last year with Brett, as part of his role on the World Bowls Board, and we enjoyed watching club-mate Selina Goddard win two

Robyne presenting Des Cotter with his life membership award at Takapuna Bowling Club

Simon’s life of service to rugby and our borders

Simon Williamson has lived a life of service to his community. Retiring earlier this year after an impressive 44+ years of service with New Zealand Customs, for the past 23 years he’s also been managing or administrating rugby in a volunteer capacity at the Northcote Birkenhead Rugby Union Sports Club (NBRUSC).

During his career in Customs, he represented New Zealand interests in Australian drug enforcement for five years and was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2016 for service to New Zealand Customs. Simon is happily married with three children and four grandchildren, all of them are involved in sport in some way. He chats to Channel Magazine about his service to the community and all things rugby.

What do you most love about sport?

Watching young people enjoying themselves and develop into good citizens through camaraderie, self-esteem, team ethos and sound values that team sports provide.

How long have you volunteered and how did you get into it?

For the past 23 years I have been managing or administrating rugby at the Northcote Birkenhead Rugby Union Sports Club (NBRUSC). Prior to that, I was an active player and coach. I also coached youth rugby and cricket in Sydney for five years.

What are some highlights of your volunteering experience?

Helping to manage a NBRUSC Premier Two rugby team that won five North Harbour Championships over a ten-year period. Becoming president of the NBRUSC and, recently, vice-president of the North Harbour Rugby Union (NHRU).

Why would you recommend volunteering to others?

Achieving a sense of achievement in ensuring young people have a good start in life, with sound support.

How important are volunteers to your sport and the local community? Critical in ensuring that over 550 registered players are able to participate in club rugby every weekend and each rugby season.

What do you do for enjoyment outside your volunteering role?

Socialising with friends and also supporting my four grandchildren –spending time with them is great.

It’s softball all the way for Roberta

Roberta Blair-Stilwell is North Harbour Softball Association’s chairwoman and has been volunteering for the sport on the Shore for more than 15 years. She lives on the Shore with husband, Rik Stilwell. Together they have three adult children, Brooke, James and Reina and have recently become proud grandparents for the first time. Roberta answers questions about her connection to the sport she loves and why volunteers are vital, not just for softball but for all sporting clubs.

What is it you love about softball?

Softball is a whānau-orientated sport through which you can make lifelong friends and connections. Softball provides opportunities for our rangatahi (youth) to grow mentally, physically, and emotionally and enables a sense of belonging.

How long have you been volunteering and how did you get into it?

I have been involved in volunteering at softball on the North Shore for more than 15 years, from coaching at club and representative levels, managing teams, being a committee member, board member, trust member and now as chairwoman of North Harbour Softball Association (NHSA).

What are some highlights of your volunteering experience?

My highlights would be my time as venue manager at the WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup held at Whakaata Māori Stadium, Rosedale Park in 2022. Also, for the Tradestaff Fastball45 National League 2021 — our house looked amazing!

Why would you recommend volunteering to others?

It’s great way to meet new people. It’s also a great way giving back to your community and a sport that you are passionate about.

How important are volunteers to your sport and the local community? Volunteers are vital to the success of any sport or community group. Due to increasing costs of maintaining and providing safe facilities, sports clubs and local community groups would not be able to function, maintain and provide services or events for their communities without volunteers.

What do you do for enjoyment outside of your volunteering role?

Spending time with whānau, weaving, watching sport and travelling.

Ko Taupiri te maunga

Ko Waikato te awa

Ko Tainui te waka

Ko Waikato me Tuwharetoa oku iwi

Engari, no Motupohue ahau

Ko Roberta Blair-Stilwell toku ingoa

Ko ahau te heamana mo te pouika o Te Tai Tokerau

Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa.

We envisage a future where every Tāmaki Makaurau community is strong and thriving.

By making it easy for donors to support causes they care about, we aim to inspire & unlock a movement of impactful giving.

Simon Williamson

Roberta driving with Trevor Smith, life member of NHSA and another amazing volunteer, at the recent Tradestaff WBSC Men's Softball World Cup at Rosedale Park

Riding for the Disabled’s longest serving volunteer

Colleen Masters is North Shore Riding for the Disabled’s longest serving volunteer. She is married with three children, four grandchildren and three great grandchildren, and worked with her husband in their own business until retirement. She played many team sports in her younger days but says she didn’t have any experience with horses or knowledge of children with special needs or a disability when she began working with North Shore Riding for the Disabled. Her time as a volunteer started with a coincidental meeting at a street barbecue. Colleen answers Channel Mag’s questions about her lengthy role with the organisation and what keeps her involved.

What do you love about being involved with North Shore Riding for the Disabled (NSRDA)?

I love being able to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. I often think how freeing it must be for a physically disabled rider to get on a horse and be able experience what it feels like to have legs.

people, and value the friendships of many. The additional experience and fellowship I have gained is invaluable. There is so much more I could say, as it truly has been a wonderful journey.

Why would you recommend volunteering to others?

It is a great opportunity to help people with disabilities develop their potential and have an enjoyable experience whilst getting into the outdoors and getting some exercise.

What do you do for enjoyment outside your volunteering role?

How long have you volunteered and how did you get into it?

My journey with NSRDA started at the beginning of 1998, after moving to Browns Bay. I met one of our neighbours, who was a volunteer at NSRDA, at a Christmas street barbecue. As always, they were looking for volunteers. I had no experience with horses (apart from falling off one) or with special needs children.

What are some highlights of your volunteering experience?

I am so very glad I became a NSRDA volunteer. My 24 years have been very rewarding in all aspects. I have met so many wonderful

Luisa’s riding high as a volunteer

I enjoy spending time with my family and being a big part of their lives in all areas. My husband and I also enjoy travelling and gardening.

How important are volunteers to your sport and the local community?

Without volunteers we simply would not be able to function and provide the wonderful service that we do. Volunteers are an integral part of our community. With these often being retired people, they tend to bring time and patience to their roles.

Luisa Shanahan is a local Milford resident, having lived on the North Shore for most of her 60+ years. Like Colleen, Luisa volunteers for North Shore Riding for the Disabled and has done so for over 15 years. The organisation provides therapeutic horse riding for people with disabilities to improve physical, intellectual and emotional wellbeing. Luisa talks about her background with horses and her love for the volunteering she does.

What do you love about the organisation you volunteer with?

I have always been around horses. I am a mum of four and a grandmother to three and I was previously a teacher, so children are a big part of my life and I really enjoy the role I do at Riding for the Disabled.

How long have you been volunteering and how did you get into it?

A dear friend, Cherrill Carter, volunteered with Riding for the Disabled for many years and earmarked me for her replacement as she stepped slowly away – that was nearly 15 years ago!

What are some highlights of your volunteering experience?

All these factors drew me to RDA and still keep me there; the smell of and contact with our beautiful herd, who just have so much to offer disabled folk, our clients who make me feel humbled and bring me joy and laughter, and my fellow volunteers who are spirited, generous and dedicated.

Why would you recommend volunteering to others? Being a volunteer is what each of us make of it. I feel lucky to be able to be one.

Colleen Masters (centre)

Luisa Shanahan

My 24 years have been very rewarding in all aspects. I have met so many wonderful people…

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Tough decisions, big month

From DTLB Chair, Toni van Tonder

June was a big month for Council as the governing body spent two days debating and deliberating on the annual budget. I admit, I’ve grown to be a bit of a Council geek and I dialled in to hear the mayor and councillors thrash it out in the Town Hall for the full two days. The mayor, I thought, did a good job of moderating the passionate discourse, granting councillors the time they needed to put their views across.

The final result saw no one going home happy and, I think truthfully, this is how it should be. It tells me that everyone had to shift their stake and compromise, even the mayor, who wanted a full sell-down of the Auckland Airport shares to pay off debt (something supported by our Local Board based on our community feedback). What we wanted to see was a chunk of that fund ring-fenced to deliver on the capital projects communities have been wanting to see for some time. In our case, it’s a beautifully designed and futurefit multi-purpose community hub and library in Takapuna.

The Devonport-Takapuna Local Board is supporting Eke Panuku in the urban regeneration of Takapuna town centre and, right now, we have an opportunity to optimise some of our under-performing assets and invest the funds into something brilliant for residents and visitors to Takapuna. If you’ve ever been to Westgate and into Te Manawa, you’d have a bit of an idea of what we hope to achieve.

Te Manawa, designed by Warren Mahoney, is a five-Green Star anchor building in the new Westgate town centre. It’s a beautifully designed library and community facility that includes workspaces, quiet puzzle spaces, a bookable sewing machine, a technology centre with 3D printer, sound recording rooms, bookable meeting rooms, a bookable function room, a bookable commercial kitchen, roof-top garden, Citizen’s Advice Bureau and a computer suite. The children’s area is abundant, playful and vibrant.

We’ve been advocating to the mayor and the governing body on the need to help us realise this aspiration. We’ve seen the resource consents start to come in for Takapuna and we know that before long, there will be thousands of new residents living in our metropolitan centre. My greatest concern is that our current library will, in years to come, end up sitting in the shadow of apartment blocks, shouldered out from the civic space we’ve been working hard to develop.

In my view, we need to explore our options and one of those options is to shift the

library and community hub to Waiwharariki ANZAC square. Doing so requires the optimisation of some underperforming assets, as well as a possible targeted rate for a defined period. How much and for how long is not currently known; all we’re looking for is a steer from the community. Do you support us investigating this option further? Do you see the benefit of what we’re proposing? Until we know, we won’t make any decisions. It’s for this reason we’re asking the question when we go out for consultation on our Local Board Plan next month. We’ll have our steer by September, and we can move forward from there.

Back to the final Council budget, you’ve probably read the news articles that articulate where the governing body landed. An average residential rates increase of 7.7%, a partial sale of the Auckland Airport shares to pay down $856 million of debt, $83 million of additional operating spending reductions, another $105 million of debt to pay towards capital projects, and a $10 million improvement in Ports of Auckland’s net operating performance and dividend projections. There are additional cost savings for all parts of Auckland Council, including the loss of 500 staff.

It has been a pretty miserable time at Council, to be honest, and I do want you to know that your councillors have been working to minimise the hurt to not just the household rates bill, but also the people that help run this city, as well as to the organisations that Council funds who deliver the great things we all enjoy. It has been an incredibly difficult balancing act. I’m always astounded when people say to me, ‘What am I actually getting for my rates?’ The answer is, pretty much everything outside of your personal property. The footpaths, the roads, the rubbish collections, the libraries, the art galleries, the local events, the playgrounds, the environmental restoration, our water services and storm water management, the ground keeping, public bin clearing, public swimming pools and recreation centres. I see my rates everywhere I go, and in everything I enjoy about this awesome city. Of course, it’s not perfect. It’s a massive city and we’re working with people; people are not perfect. However overall, it’s pretty darn good and I know it will keep getting better.

For the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, we are enormously grateful that our own cut hasn’t been as severe as originally forecast. The process of planning our own budget with a 61% reduction has forced us to look closely at our own spending and sharpen our focus. We’ve been looking at where we too can cut back on duplication, spend more on action and less on administration, and support our communities to be more resilient together.

We’ll be approving our new work programme on our reduced budget later this month and people will see how our thinking and priorities have shifted through this process to meet the growing and changing expectations of the community. So, things will be a little bit different this year, in terms of what and how we do things. There will be cuts, but there will also be some fantastic outcomes in the environmental and resilience space. As a board, we’ve learned a lot from this process and we’ve had some robust conversations about what our community needs are and how we best meet them.

So, thank you again, to all who had their say and helped us shift the dial on how we deliver for our community. Please keep your eye out for our Local Board Plan consultation and let us know what you think is best for our library and community services in Takapuna. We rely on your feedback.

Toni van Tonder, Chair, Devonport-Takapuna Local Board Email: toni.vantonder@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

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Active ageing and age friendly advocacy

By Christine Young

Mairangi Bay resident Dr Judy Blakey’s life trajectory has taken her to several countries, before she made her home on the North Shore. In 2018, this self-described community advisor and agefriendly advocate was awarded an MNZM for services to seniors. Christine Young explores the influences that have shaped her dynamic, influential personality and career.

In May, Judy was online promoting a webinar presented by the New Zealand Association of Gerontology (NZAG), titled, ‘Who’s afraid of the big bad wolf? Artificial intelligence and older people’. The webinar spoke to Judy’s concerns that seniors should be considered in shaping all aspects of community life. It looked at potential, risks, ethics, and governance as AI is used to provide models and solutions for health and wellbeing, and considered how the views and needs of older people should be considered.

Just how Judy moved from an undergraduate degree in economics in Johannesburg to advocating in Auckland for active ageing and the engagement of older people in community and public life is quite a tale…

Judy graduated in the early days of mainframe computers and her first job was in computer programming. She attended a course to learn COBOL (an early computer programing language), where she met her future husband Peter.

Judy and Peter were English-speaking South Africans. Uncomfortable with apartheid, they shifted to Canada, and later to England, only to be drawn back to South Africa by the wish to be near grandparents, as they started their family. But Judy was never the stay-at-home-mum type. In the days when mothers were expected not to work. “I did a short stint in computer programming,” she says, and enrolled in the University of South Africa to do an Honours degree in neuro-psychological research. She also gave swimming lessons in their backyard swimming pool.

Embarking on post-graduate study, Judy was influenced by the philosophies of Reuven Feurstein, a Romanian-born Israeli psychologist and embarked on an ill-fated study trip to Israel. On her first night, taking part in Israeli folk dancing resulted in a badly torn Achilles tendon. The young orthopaedic surgeon, sensitive to her distress, agreed not to operate and Judy flew home with a plaster from her foot to the top of her thigh; when she and Peter later emigrated to New Zealand she was still not fully mobile, and had had to learn to walk again.

Judy and Peter left South Africa because of their stance against apartheid and against some of the tactics adopted by the South African police. ”We were harassed, singled out, had death threats. There were lewd, unpleasant and unpalatable aspects: they put our car for sale for a ridiculous price in the newspaper; they put Peter’s death and funeral notice in the paper.” Hordes turned up to purchase the car, and they received the bills for the ads.

Then, with Peter away on work, Judy received a postcard threatening her and their two children. “We decided we didn’t want to bring our children up in South Africa.”

After flying to Zimbabwe to be interviewed by Chris Laidlaw, New Zealand's first resident High Commissioner to Harare, who represented New Zealand's interests throughout Africa at the time, Judy and Peter’s application was approved and they arrived in Wellington.

During that first year in New Zealand, Judy finished her thesis and looked for work in research. With nothing immediately on offer and wanting to be available to support the children in the transition to their new country, she trained as a teacher.

“That was the best thing for me,” she says. “A new migrant should do teacher training, as teaching is where culture is transmitted. I was able to imbibe so much more than if I had been at home or stuck in one workplace.” She was, she says, exposed to different communities, to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and to te reo Māori, all of which have since stood her in good stead – and created some tensions. But more of that later.

When Peter won a role lecturing at Massey University, the family moved to Palmerston North. Judy taught there for ten years, and completed a post-graduate teaching diploma. But her teaching career was disrupted when she flew to Natal for the funeral after her brother was murdered in South Africa. She was traumatised by the experience, but back here, she says, “No one knew how to reach out and talk to you.”

As she recovered, she took up an opportunity within Massey University's psychology department to do research into veterans’ hearing loss and began a research doctorate. Her interest in ageing was piqued, “One of the best indicators of [future] dementia is hearing loss. And the country was slowly waking up to the fact we have an ageing population.” She joined NZAG in the early 2000s as she was

Judy Blakey MNZM, an advocate for seniors and of active ageing

Judy Blakey MNZM on making waves through her work

completing her research and became a strong advocate for active ageing and age-friendly services.

After 17 years at Massey University, in 2008 Peter and Judy were on the move again – this time to the North Shore, when the house next door to their son and daughter-in-law came on the market. “The most healing thing in this dislocation was the grandchildren,” Judy says. Just as she and Peter had sought to live in South Africa so their children could grow up near grandparents, now they could support the next generation. Judy regularly helped out at the schools the grandchildren attended, and later volunteered as a reader writer at Rangitoto College.

Helping at a school holiday programme led to her involvement with Mairangi Arts Centre (MAC), where in 2016 she 'put her hand up' to join the board. She says this opened her eyes to 'how monocultural it was on the Shore'. She found herself facing criticism for using te reo Māori at the beginning of meetings. Undaunted, she persisted. “If we were seeking Council funding, we needed to be meeting our Te Tiriti obligations,” she says.

She is now a life member and remains actively involved, noting that MAC contributes to active ageing, fostering a supportive environment that draws in many older people.

When Judy completed her doctorate in 2008, she took on a variety of new roles, each leading to new opportunities, among them research and community engagement at North Shore City Council, tutoring at Kip McGrath, teaching English to adults, and Chinese migrant students, and as a consumer voice on the northern region Primary Healthcare Nursing Reference Network. “I had got into consumer work when doing my doctorate,” she says. “People had realised getting the consumer voice involved was important.”

She has also provided consumer perspectives to Precision Driven Health, a health data science research initiative, and participates in the governance group for the New Zealand Algorithm Hub. Judy’s early role in computing has come full circle as she combines her understanding of data and computing with her 'interest in empowering people'.

Another key role was as a member of Auckland Council’s Seniors Advisory Panel, where, as is her wont, she challenged Council officers who discovered she wasn’t the requisite 65 years old (she was four months short of that). In typical Judy style, she persuaded them that they needed seniors of different age groups to reflect the diversity of the older population. She served the maximum two three-year terms, helping Council strive for acceptance as a World Health Organization age-friendly city. As a result of this experience, she co-authored, with Janet Clews CNZM, a paper titled, ‘Knowing, being and coconstructing an age-friendly Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’ which was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health’s special issue on age-friendly cities.

Judy was named a life member of NZAG in 2018 for her community leadership. In 2021, she joined NZAG's executive committee to provide elder perspectives on their deliberations, and is now a member of its 2023 Conference organising committee. It is her next big (but by no means only) project and it’s apt that Judy, with her determination to combat ageism, and her research and education background, is at the forefront of its organisation.

One of the best indicators of [future] dementia is hearing loss. And the country was slowly waking up to the fact we have an ageing population.

Milford professionals at your service!

A group of highly important businesses, that are often not celebrated for what they offer to a busy retail town centre, are the ‘professional service’ businesses. These are businesses which provide very important professional services to local community members, local businesses and those from further afield. They bring business to our town centre as well as adding vibrancy.

This month, I highlight the wonderful array of these professional businesses we have in Milford – 23 in total!

I could not write this column without mentioning Tony Sands from Sands & Associates, accountants. Tony has been the chairman of the

association for over 10 years and a driving force in the revival of Milford as a premium town centre. He is a great example of a hugely respected professional in our community.

Support has come also from Harcourts Cooper & Co, Kitchen Mania and Prestige Real Estate which have all been contributing annual sponsors of the association. Their sponsorship has been invaluable in achieving the success we now have and the vibrancy of the town centre.

So, a huge shout-out to these businesses listed below. If you need any of the services that are on offer I urge you all to contact them and ‘support local’.

Uptown Milford

Sands & Associates, Chartered Accountants

Prestige Real Estate

Milford Watch & Clock Repairs

Harcourts Cooper & Co

Kanu Jeram Chartered Accountant

Milford Taxation

Hatton Financial Services Ltd

D & E Mortgage

Plutus Mortgage & Insurance

Central Milford

Rise Advisory Ltd

The Clean – car wash

3C Easy – mobile phone repairs accessories

Twin Needles – seamstress

Mister Minit

Judith Moore Barrister

Barfoot & Thompson

Mako Architecture

PinTin – seamstress

Guardian Angel Security

McGill Property Management

Downtown Milford

NZ Electronics Repair

Car Pro Milford

Pet & Vet Milford

Twin Needles

Milford Watch & Clock Repairs The Clean – car wash

Mako Architecture

NZ Electronics Repair

Mister Minit

Cruise into the future

Try something new with one of these beautiful ocean cruise offerings. From small to mid-sized ships, unique itineraries, immersive excursions, luxurious decor and delicious cuisine there is something suitable for any discerning traveller. Through a personalised service and dedicated planning, the Shore Travel cruise specialists will remove the guesswork, inspiring new possibilities in your travel before tailoring an experience that’s just for you.

Azamara: Small ship luxury with destination immersion being their specialty. Longer stays in ports with night tours. Highlights include Scotland intensive, Perry Golf partnership, Croatia Intensive, Ancient Pathways and West Africa.

Crystal: The new Crystal reborn (with new owners) claims to be exceptional at sea with a six-star service, unrivalled guest to space ratio and all-inclusive offering. The inaugural cruise from Athens to Istanbul on Crystal Symphony launches on 1 September. She heads downunder this summer.

Explora Journeys: A brand new luxury cruise offering for the discerning traveller, launching its first ship in July in northern Europe and the second in August 2024 in the Mediterranean. Swiss cosmopolitan boutique hotel feel.

Oceania: Country club casual with no formal nights. Exquisitely crafted cuisine. All made-to-order meals with fresh food shopped for at each port. Curated travel experiences with new itineraries each year. Featuring new go-local and wellness tour options. Great value for money.

Paul Gauguin: An economical and unique way to experience Tahiti. Exclusive small ship access to Bora Bora and private islands. Dive masters gear on board. Both honeymoon and family packages available. Starting from AU$4,200 per person for seven nights.

Ponant: The Gucci of the cruise industry. Suits those with a thirst for adventure and discovery. Experience the Two Poles itinerary or the new Japan expeditions, plus the exclusive Smithsonian partnership.

Regent Seven Seas: Destination immersion with unlimited excursions in each port. Concierge and penthouse butler service included with transfers and pre-cruise accommodation. Cuisine is epicurean perfection. Spotlight voyages include partnerships with Faberge and Formula 1.

Seabourn: Ultra luxury with guest experience being at forefront of mind, i.e. the Seabourn moment. One-to-one passenger to crew ratio. Try the 32 day reposition Los Angeles via Hawaii and South Pacific to Auckland departing 21 October.

Silversea: This all-inclusive, ultra-luxury cruise line features both ocean and expedition options with port to port or door to door packages.

Windstar: Captivating private yacht style cruising providing an authentic and distinctive experience. Understated elegance best describes this product. Every voyage includes more value. The wind class are classic sailing yachts made for adventure and feature unique Mediterranean and Middle East itineraries.

Cruise into the future with Shore Travel. Your chance to discover new, exciting places, and create memories that last a lifetime. Each aspect of your trip is tailored to fit your own world, ready to explore and be enjoyed.

Enquire today on 09 489 2597 hello@shoretravel.co.nz

Roof maintenance

How to prepare your roof for the wet season

As the wet season is well upon us, it’s important to ensure that your roof is prepared for heavy rainfall and potential storms. The roof is one of the most critical components of your home’s structure, and it’s essential to keep it well-maintained to avoid leaks and other problems. Here are several tips to help you prepare your roof for the wet season:

Clean your gutters

Gutters are an essential part of your roof’s drainage system, and it’s crucial to ensure that they’re clean and free from debris. Leaves, twigs and other matter can clog your gutters, which can lead to water overflow and potential damage to your roof. Before the rain arrives, make sure to clean your gutters thoroughly to ensure that they are working correctly.

Check for damage

Roof damage can occur for a variety of reasons, including heavy winds, falling branches, and ageing materials. Before the wet season arrives, inspect your roof for any signs of damage. Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracks or holes in your roof, and any other signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, it’s important to address it immediately to avoid potential leaks and other problems.

Trim trees and branches

Trees and branches can cause significant damage to your roof during

a storm or heavy winds. Before this occurs, make sure to trim any overhanging branches or trees that could potentially fall onto your roof. This can prevent damage and avoid potential safety hazards.

Ensure proper ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining the health of your roof. Without adequate ventilation, moisture can build up in your attic, which can lead to mould growth and other problems. Make sure your roof has proper ventilation to help prevent moisture buildup and keep your family and your home healthy.

Consider a roof coating

A roof coating is a protective layer that can help extend the life of your roof and protect it from the elements. If your roof is in good condition but needs an extra layer of protection, consider having a roof coating applied before the wet season arrives. A roof coating can help prevent water damage, sun damage and extend the life of your roof.

With proper maintenance, your roof can continue to protect your home for years to come. If you want any remedial work, a new roof or any building work, email so renovate at office@sorenovate.co.nz or visit our website sorenovate.co.nz.

For more about us or our latest projects visit our website www.sorenovate.co.nz or follow and interact with us on social media Instagram @so_renovate Facebook @sorenovate

CLEANING WITH CLEAN FOR GOOD GARDENING WITH NEWHAVEN GARDENS

By Stephanie Ray, director at Clean for Good

How to clean your wooden floors

Dear readers, There are so many myths and legends surrounding the cleaning of a wooden floor. In this edition, we will be sharing how to clean your floors like a pro. Forget about the complicated tales and let Clean for Good guide you through a fun and easy cleaning routine that will keep your floors looking fabulous for years to come.

Here are three big 'no-nos' to remember:

• No steam mops: High pressure, moist air being pushed down into to your floor is just a recipe for disaster.

• Avoid harsh chemicals: Do not use any abrasive or caustic cleaning product on your floor.

• Say goodbye to wet mops: Excessive moisture can harm your floor. We want to preserve your floors, not soak them!

Here's the exciting part - the Clean for Good Way, the proper way to clean your wooden floors:

• Dust or vacuum your floor Remember, if you are using your vacuum to make sure the brushes are down on the vacuum foot, and to always go with the direction of your timber floor. When you go across the planks, you run the risk of scratching and damaging your floor.

• Meet your allies Use a flat microfibre mop, a bucket with hot water and three drops of dishwashing liquid. Yes, dishwashing liquid!

• The process Dip a mop into the bucket of water, and make sure you squeeze any surplus water out of it. This gives you a damp mop that you can use to glide over your hardwood floors with ease. Glide the microfibre mop gently across the floor. Remember to always go with the direction of your timber floor. Allow your floor to dry before walking on it.

Follow these steps and your floors will shine bright, like a diamond! Are you ready to experience A+ top-quality, eco-friendly cleaning like never before?

Visit us at our brand-new office at 17 Clarence Street, or reach out to us using the provided contact details. Let Clean for Good take care of your cleaning needs, and enjoy the difference a truly exceptional cleaning service can make!

Contact us today on 020 4010 2470 or info@cleanforgood.co.nz.

Stephanie Ray, Director 020 4010 2470

info@cleanforgood.co.nz cleanforgood.co.nz

Look for our next column and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for even more hacks and a lot of freebies: Instagram instagram.com/cleanforgoodnz Facebook facebook.com/cleanforgoodnz

Hedge trimming tips

Regular trims and pruning will keep your hedge in great condition, allowing increased sunlight and airflow, as well as making them look neat and appealing.

Hedge trimmer vs shears

For large hedges and for the newer gardener, I would recommend using powered hedge trimmers, they are easier to control and you can cover much larger areas. The only real drawback to hedge trimmers is they don’t give quite as sharp a cut as hand held shears.

Their precision cuts make shears ideal for topiary, and also provide a cleaner looking cut for larger leaved hedges. The downside to shears is that they take considerably longer to trim large areas, and there is bit of a knack to using them, so they can be a little daunting to a less experienced gardener. Whether you opt for hedge trimmers or shears, ensure they are sharp, clean and in good repair before using.

Whichever method you use, you should always make sure you have the correct protective gear: heavy duty gloves , protective eyewear, a long sleeved top, safety boots, and ear protection if using hedge trimmers. If trimming over mulch or stones, it often pays to pop a tarpaulin down before you start which will help with the clean up at the end.

When trimming a medium to large hedge with a hedge trimmer, it is easier to cut a hedge from the ground up using a sweeping action from bottom to top. The reason for this is you will get a better cut due to more visible control and it’s far safer than a top to bottom approach which could lead to injury if you slip.

The final stage is to cut the top. Place the hedge trimmer horizontal to the hedge top and gently cut away from yourself from front to back. Ensure you don’t place too much pressure on the hedge trimmer when cutting away from yourself to avoid any unsightly dips.

If in doubt its best to get the professionals in. At Newhaven Gardens we are able to trim hedges up to around 3.5m tall, and are experienced in topiary, trimming and pruning.

For larger hedges and trees we recommend contacting a reputable arborist such as bakertrees.co.nz

Amanda Graham Newhaven Gardens Ltd

021 378969

instagram.com/newhavengardens/ amanda@newhavengardens.co.nz newhavengardens.co.nz

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

Discover Devonport’s hidden gem

Vic Road Wine Bar and Cellar

Discover this charming

store and wine bar on your next visit to Devonport village. Part bottle shop, part wine and tapas bar, this little boutique space offers something for everyone.

Whether you want to cosy up in a corner with a glass of something unusual and delicious, or browse the floor-to-ceiling shelves for your new favourite wine, the friendly staff will make you feel welcome, and are always happy to find something to suit every taste.

While this little bar is small and intimate, it packs a punch in terms of quality offerings. The array of wines on display is truly amazing with a focus on small, boutique wineries, independent winemakers or wines with a story. Covering both New Zealand and international wines, a browse in this shop will no doubt reveal a new vineyard or grape variety that you have never heard of.

Vic Road Wine Bar and Cellar oozes European charm, from its delightful outdoor courtyard to its extensive tapas menu, featuring house-made cured meats, warm olives, Spanish tortilla, beef tartare (served in a truffle chip packet!), patés, terrines and rillettes, plus a huge selection of New Zealand and French cheeses. Visit on a Sunday afternoon from 3.30pm and you will also catch their live music performances.

Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar is the sister venue to Vic Road Kitchen (two doors down the road) which has a focus on seasonal produce and a weekly changing dinner menu. Vic Road Kitchen has been serving up their decadent home-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas and other meat and fish dishes for over five years, and is also a must-visit when you're next in Devonport.

Vic Road Wine Bar and Cellar

53-55 Victoria Road, Devonport 09 445 0194

drink@vicroadwinebar.co.nz vicroadkitchen.co.nz

Open Monday-Sunday: 12pm-9pm (Thurs, Fri and Sat nights, open to approx 10pm)

THETA CHAMBER:

treatment for concussion, PTSD, dementia, insomnia, depression and more… “It’s like therapy without the talking” - client, Sept 2022

SOQI Bed, Deesse Pro LED mask, Bioptron lights, RF inner cleanse.

Shop 5, The Arcade

15 Victoria Road, Devonport 027 777 5530

devonportwellness.co.nz

info@devonportwellness.co.nz

The array of wines on display is truly amazing with a focus on small, boutique wineries, independent winemakers or wines with a story.

Your supply for 'Dry July' and more

Focus on Barrys Point Rd: Liquid Experience

Many North Shore locals are going dry this July to raise funds to support people with cancer. Channel Mag's Liz Cannon chats with Saumil Shah, owner of Liquid Experience, who stocks the most incredible range of non-alcoholic beverages for Dry July and beyond.

Saumil is a big supporter of those embarking on abstinence this month to support the Dry July Foundation, and is proud to supply those looking for an impressive range of healthier and extremely tasty alternatives to regular alcoholic tipples.

The sheer expanse of options on offer is testimony to Saumil's expertise, and along with his insightful advice and guidance, there's something for every palette. The non-alcoholic range is quite simply, extensive! Just a few ideas for your Dry July supply are:

• Wine - alcohol-free wine from Germany, including cabernet sauvignon, sauvignon blanc and a red wine blend

• Pals - Hawke's Bay lemon, cucumber and soda; Central Otago peach, passionfruit and soda, with more flavours to come

• Gin - Brunswick Aces from Australia; Wildjac Wild and Botanical from the UK, perfectly matched with Barker and Quin tonics and mixers

• Mocktails - Kiwi brand Elta Ego's low sugar raspberry and yuzu G&Ts; mojitos, with more options on the way

• Beers - Garage Project Tiny Hazy IPA and XPA; Bare Beer Hazy IPA and Pale Ale; Brothers Beer 'Fill Yer Boots' IPA; Deep Creek Zero; Birra Moretti LA Zero; Rinkuskiai IPA and lager; Baltika refreshing grapefruit beer drink and premium lager.

(Check labels for 0% or 0.5% alcohol content.)

FOCUS ON BARRYS POINT ROAD

Since 2011, Saumil has been the owner/operator of Liquid Experience, a boutique, independent store specialising in a wide, varied and impressive array of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Saumil is passionate about the entire drink creation process, from fruit or grains to glass, and with his solid business acumen and experience, is proud to be able to offer a unique, bespoke service to his clients. He says, "The best and most rewarding aspect of what I do is getting to know each individual customer well. It's my knowledge of their individual preferences and tastes that enables me to provide such a unique and insightful service for them."

For those not jumping on the wagon this July, Saumil stocks a huge variety of alcoholic options too. He specialises in single malt Irish

whiskey and Scottish, Indian and Japanese whiskys, rums for delicious winter hot toddies, a wide range of gins and matching tonics, and an extensive selection of both New Zealand and International wines, plus special occasion champagnes and bubbles.

Saumil is on hand to serve, advise and inspire you with all your drink purchases, and invites you to keep an eye on his socials to find out about the regular tasting evenings held in store. Cheers!

Liquid Experience, 1 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 489 2464, 021 270 9191 liquidexperience2011@gmail.com Facebook Instagram @LiquidExperienceTakapuna

WHY CHOOSE US FOR DOGGY DAY CARE:

Independently rated as #1 in Auckland

Certified members of the International Boarding and Pet Services Association

Multiple Obedience Champion Puppy Trainer

Westpac Auckland Business Awards

Finalists: 2021 People’s Choice; 2022 Excellence in Customer Service

Saumil Shah

THEDOGDEN.CO.NZ 23 BARRYS POINT RD, TAKAPUNA 486 0575

From top left: Leanne Bate, Ian Waddams, Ranjan Unka, Tonia Robertson, Jayson Hayde, Toer Li, Steven Liu, Michael Nees, Dean Gilbert-Smith, Jane McKee.

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

Considering underfloor heating?

Underfloor heating is a popular way to heat your home, providing warm floors underfoot, as well as being an efficient method of heating. It warms the space with a mix of radiant and convection heat, producing a consistent, comfy temperature level throughout the home, while decreasing the likelihood of cold spots.

Costs vary depending on certain factors; the size of the area to be heated, the type of system chosen and the installation method.

Cost considerations:

Installation involves both material and labour costs. The type of system chosen, such as electric or hydronic (water-based), will impact installation expenses.

Operational costs depend on which system is used. Electric systems tend to have higher operational costs due to the price of electricity, while hydronic systems are generally more energyefficient and may result in lower long-term operational expenses.

Low-maintenance is typical for underfloor systems, helping reduce maintenance expenses. However, it's essential to consider any potential repair or maintenance costs associated with the specific system chosen.

Benefits include:

Comfort: provides a comfortable and even distribution of heat throughout the room, eliminates cold spots and provides warmth from the floor up, creating a cozy environment.

Energy efficient: Hydronic systems, especially when paired with energy-efficient heat sources like heat pumps, can be highly energyefficient, reducing energy consumption and lowering heating bills, compared to traditional heating systems.

Silent operation: Unlike some traditional heating systems that can produce noise, underfloor heating operates silently, providing a peaceful environment.

Allergy-friendly: Underfloor heating reduces air movement, minimizing the circulation of dust, allergens and other particles, beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.

Space-saving: Eliminates the need for bulky radiators or other heating systems, freeing up wall space and allowing for greater flexibility in room layout.

Design freedom: Hidden beneath the floor, underfloor heating doesn't interfere with the aesthetic appeal of the room, and allows for greater freedom in interior design and furniture placement.

If you’re considering underfloor heating, give us a call! We'll come to your place to chat through the options and provide a free quote.

Lewis Rudall, Lake Road Electrical 09 242 2204

By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist

Change it up

The more you do something the easier it becomes, and that’s certainly the case with weight training.

Every time you repeat an activity your body is improving its ability to handle that stress. This means you burn fewer calories and build less muscle with every workout. Making progress requires the introduction of new activity – your weights programme needs regular changes. There are five factors that influence how often you should make a change to get the best results for you:

• The first factor is how often you do your programme. If you do it three times per week you’ll need to update it more often than if you’re doing it once a week alongside two classes. It’s the number of times you do the programme, not the number of weeks you do it for.

• Factor two is your level of fitness. If you’re new to exercise it will take your body more time to adapt. Your muscles will need longer to get accustomed to the load and your brain will need longer to learn the new movement patterns. A beginner might need eight to ten sessions on a new programme whereas an experienced exerciser might be ready for a change after four to six sessions. The fitter you are the more you need to challenge yourself to make continued progress.

• Factor three is your general health. If you’re feeling strong and healthy then your body will readily adapt to new loads. But if your body is under strain, for example if you’re under a lot of stress and not eating or sleeping well, then it’s different. Too much exercise at too high an intensity can exhaust you and imbalance your hormones, and cause you to lose condition rather than gain it. If all is not well you may get better results from keeping a familiar, moderate intensity programme. Sometimes the success is just getting off the couch and away from the fridge to do something rather than nothing.

• Factor four is the extent of the change. The four factors you can manipulate to change up a programme are frequency of exercise, intensity of exercise, time spent exercising and type of exercise. It’s ideal to manipulate one variable at once, for example putting up your programme weights or trying a new class. If you’re doing thrice-weekly gym floor weights then you’ll be in for a shock if you suddenly double your gym visits and start tag-teaming Grit and Combat classes.

• Factor five is your exercise temperament. Everyone is different. If you are a creature of habit there’s no point in pressuring yourself to adapt to constant changes. You’ll just get frustrated that you never seem to master the exercises. Equally, if you’re somebody who enjoys variety you will get bored quickly if you don’t change it up a lot. Either way you’ll lose your motivation to adhere to your plan. The best exercise is the one you enjoy enough to actually get in the gym door to do.

In many ways programme design is as much an art as a science. The right balance of predictability and unpredictability will give you a programme that is enjoyable as well as effective.

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

By Natasha Geo, Takapuna North Community Trust Manager

Winter wonders: celebrate Matariki and night tours in parks

Experience the magic of Matariki with two enchanting events! Join us at Mythical Matariki: Stories at Dawn on 5 July and Twilight Waiata Family Gathering and Potluck on 14 July.

At Stories at Dawn, you will hear ancient legends come alive through mythical tales of Matariki while sipping on hot drinks and enjoying delightful nibbles. At Twilight Waiata, come together with your family to celebrate Matariki through shared food, laughter, and waiata (songs). Mark your calendars and join us for these unforgettable Matariki experiences. RSVP via our website takapunatrust.org.nz.

Guided Nature Night Tour

Discover our parks after dark, and the creatures in the night you never see. During this guided walk you will learn about fish, tuna/eels, weta, spiders, ruru/morepork and other creatures in our parks and reserves. The night ends with a free hot chocolate. Reserve your spot by visiting our website.

By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead

New te reo Māori short course

A new te reo Māori short course is being launched in July. Plus, read more about Ancad’s LiiFT Aotearoa professional development programme which offers NFP/community groups outstanding training free or at low cost.

Check below out the topics coming up in July:

LiiFT Aotearoa professional development

There are some fantastic professional development and training sessions happening over the coming months, including: Tuesday 18 July, 6.30pm–7.45pm on Zoom for the topic, ‘Board reviews for good governance’. This is open to all board or committee members and managers or anyone from community who has an interest in this topic. On 27 July, 10am– 11.30am, join on Zoom for the topic, 'How to maximise your income from trusts and grants'.

To find out more about each of these sessions and to register head to Ancad’s dedicated training website found at LiiFT.nz

Te reo Māori short course

In association with Selwyn Community Education, Ancad presents an eightweek series of workshops at a subsidised fee of $60 (for New Zealand citizens and residents) for all eight sessions, with 80 percent attendance required. The presenter is Nathan Grey. Starting Wednesday 26 July and running weekly, 12pm–2pm at the Mary Thomas Centre in Takapuna.

This short course is designed for beginners who have no prior knowledge of te reo Māori or Māori culture. By the end of the course, you'll be able to:

• Understand the basics of the Māori spiritual and natural worlds (mana atua, mana whenua), and our important connections to them.

• Identify the sound of Māori letters and pronounce letter combinations using correct intonation and stress patterns.

• Confidently greet people and introduce yourself.

• Confidently describe the day/date, time, and the weather.

Thank you to Devonport-Takapuna Local Board

These free initiatives would not have been possible without generous support from Devonport-Takapuna Local Board.

We’d love to hear from you!

If you have any feedback on how we serve you or would like to share some ideas, please get in touch with us.

takapunatrust.org.nz

Facebook/Instagram: @TakapunaNorthCommunityTrust

office@takapunatrust.org.nz 09 486 2098

Supported by:

• Count in Māori.

• Plus a lot more.

To register phone 09 521 9623 or go to the Selwyn Community education page, selwyncomed.school.nz

Ancad community network meeting

You are invited along to this network meeting for all, on Thursday 20 July, 12 – 2pm. Venue: TBA. There will be a guest speaker at this event. Following the presentation, there will be an opportunity to share any announcements. RSVP to Sarah Thorne sarah@ancad.org.nz. Find out more and how to register at ancad.org.nz/events/

ancad.org.nz Facebook @ancad.org.nz Instagram ancadinc

LiiFT Aotearoa LiiFT.nz 0800 426 223 or info@ancad.org.nz

Little Doves turns five!

Kristin’s Early Learning Centre, Little Doves, is celebrating five years since it opened its doors to children from the age of six months to four years.

Little Doves manager Sarah Jones says the vision was clear from day one. “From the start, Little Doves was conceived as a place of learning and care. We recognise the crucial importance of the first three years of a child’s life, and know that this is a time of unparalleled brain development.

“We aim, every day, to ensure that children feel safe, emotionally secure, loved and cared for, so that they are able to play, explore, learn and thrive as they should,” she says.

The addition of Little Doves enabled Kristin to provide continuity of education for children from early learning through to Year 13. Since opening, hundreds of children have been enrolled at Little Doves, most continuing on to Kristin Kindergarten and into the Junior School.

Principal of Junior School and Early Learning Jayne de la Haye says the foundations laid at Little Doves last a lifetime.

“Here's to five years of remarkable achievements, and leading the way with innovative practice that prepares our learners for the future! Happy birthday, Little Doves!”

Shakespeare success continues for Kristin

Kristin students continued their success on stage with three students selected to perform at the SGCNZ University of Otago Sheilah Winn National Shakespeare Festival last month.

Daniel Martin (Year 11), Finn Theodore (Year 12) and Kester Sykes (Year 12) presented a scene from Hamlet at the Wellington-based festival.

The students were recognised with two awards for their performance: 'Outstanding Imagination and Commitment to the Text', and a special Assessor Award from scene assessor Sepelini Mua’au, for 'Best Comedy Use of Props'.

Daniel, Finn and Kester were chosen to present the Best Five

Minute Scene, following their award-winning performance at the SGCNZ Auckland West Regional Shakespeare Festival earlier this year. At this event, Kristin Middle and Senior School students were recognised with an additional seven awards including ‘Best Stage Design’, ‘Best Use of Music/Song’, ‘Best Connection Between Two Performers’, ‘Most Original Concept’ and ‘Best Student Direction’.

Kristin drama curriculum leader Leigh Sykes says “These awards are a testament to the hard work, dedication and creativity of these performers along with the support and encouragement of our parents and the dedication of our drama teachers. As always, we are very proud of their achievements.”

Little Doves manger Sarah Jones

Double win for Kristin students

Kristin is celebrating the success of students in both the National Spanish Debate Competition and the Ethics Olympiad.

A team of four Kristin students – Eric Zhang (Year 13), Stefan Thompson (Year 12), Madeleine Loughton (Year 11) and Miriam Alshaar (Year 11) – took home first prize at the competition in May. Teams take part in a series of debates that they only have up to 45 minutes to prepare for, with their arguments and rebuttals presented in Spanish. Teams are then assessed on criteria including language skills, annunciation, gestures, and eye contact, as well as the content and structure of their arguments.

The team’s success means Kristin will host the National Spanish Debate Competition in 2024. Madeleine and Miriam were also part of a team that secured a gold medal at the Ethics Olympiad, held in May, alongside Year 11 students Ryan Fan, Millie Oxley and Cecilia Lin.

At the Olympiad, teams from schools from around the country meet to discuss ethical issues, with participants encouraged to agree with arguments presented by the opposition and build upon these to reach the best conclusions.

The Kristin team will now go on to represent New Zealand at the online international competition this month.

Kristin Senior School Principal David Boardman says,

“Congratulations to all Kristin students who took part in the National Spanish Debate Competition and the Ethics Olympiad. These competitions are extremely challenging and to achieve such high recognition is testament to the skill, dedication and commitment of the teams involved. Kristin is proud of you and all that you have achieved.”

Madeleine Loughton, Miriam Alshaar, Stefan Thompson and Eric Zhang at the National Spanish Debate Competition

Cross-country runners win national titles

A large team of Westlake Boys runners descended on Palmerston North for the New Zealand Secondary School Cross-Country Championships in mid-June.

An outstanding set of team results saw the senior boys team take out the six-person team title for the sixth straight time. They were also runners-up in the threeperson team event. The junior boys team was victorious in both the six- and three-person team events. The Year 9 team finished runners-up in the six-person team event and fourth in the three-person team event.

Individual accolades went to Alfie Steedman who was sixth in the senior boys race, and Harry Witheridge who was ninth in the junior boys race.

Just a few days after the national schools event, a number of senior athletes began a trip to Kenya where they will take part in a three-week running camp, which includes high altitude training,

seminars and visits to local schools.

Westlake Boys Director of Sport Andrew Lydiard praised the outstanding efforts of our runners. “Congratulations to the collective team of Westlake distance running athletes and staff on yet another successful cross-country season. Their hard work and dedication continues to make us all very proud. We wish them all the best for their African adventures.”

Get your tickets before the clock strikes midnight!

“Opportunity is not a lengthy visitor,” says Cinderella’s mother in 'Into the Woods'. So, get your tickets from iTicket.co.nz today, and don’t be late for the ball!

Journey 'Into the Woods' with the cast from Westlake Boys and Girls High Schools from 18 to 22 July, and find out what happens after the happily ever after…

Musicians hit a high note

Westlake Boys is proud to celebrate the achievements of our musicians. Year 9 pianist Shan Liu recently received the prestigious 2023 AIMES scholarship award. He entered under the emerging category section and only three musicians were chosen out of 200 applicants this year. Shan also had the honour of being the youngest winner. He has already performed as a piano soloist with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the Manukau Symphony Orchestra. Also recently, bass trombonist Matt Donaldson has been selected for the National Secondary Schools’ Brass Band and principal cornet player James Hendra has earned a spot in the NSSBB Development Band. All 74 students auditioned for their seat playing brass or percussion instruments. They were chosen for their sound quality, technical skills and dynamic control.

1st XV rugby team visits Blues HQ

The 1st XV rugby team was invited to train at the Blues headquarters on Wednesday 31 May. The players, who are unbeaten in the North Harbour Cup competition, were given a tour around the Super Rugby facility and then held practice sessions with their coaches. Blues backline coach Daniel Halangahu gave our backs some extra drills and a highlight was when All Blacks star Beauden Barrett met the team. Captain James Cameron was also invited to have a run on defence against the Auckland franchise.

Westlake Boys cross-country running team after winning a number of nationals titles in Palmeston North

Luke Cudby, Etienne Calonne and Roman Matson competing at the cross-country champs in Palmerston North

Shan Liu has just won an AIMES emerging talent award

The 1st XV team on tour at the Blues headquarters

Blues coaches with our Westlake Boys forwards Matereti Hoyt with Beauden Barrett

Shan Liu Matt Donaldson

James Hendra

Are you in business?

This opportunity from Westlake Girls High School is a win-win

Grab this rare chance to promote your business for practically nothing – and help an entrepreneurial student into the bargain!

For only $50, you can support a team of Westlake Girls High School students to take part in our '$50 Start-Up Challenge.’

Economics and business teacher Aarti Singh will run a business initiative in Term 3 to nurture the entrepreneurial spirits of her Y9-12 students. The girls will work in teams to develop a profitable business idea, with a percentage of their proceeds to be donated to a charity of their choice.

As the teams work through the process of ideation, validation, prototyping and selling their products, they will document their learning. Upon completion of the project, there will be an expo at school which you are welcome to attend if you wish.

In return, your name and company name will be published in our newsletter that goes out to our extremely large and supportive school community. You'll also be featured in this monthly magazine, 'Channel' – the North Shore’s monthly magazine for news, views, events, and people, AND you'll get your name on our glory board of sponsors at the student expo after the event.

Not only that, you'll get that wonderful, altruistic feeling of helping shape the corporate go-getters of the future!

FAQs

Do I really only have to pay $50?

Correct.

What else do I have to do?

Nothing!

Really? I don't have to mentor students or run workshops for you or anything like that?

Correct. There's literally nothing else you need to do.

And I get mentioned in Westlake Girls High School newsletter, Channel magazine, and the sponsors' board at the school expo?

Correct.

I'm not a business owner, just someone who would like to support this. Can I sponsor a team? Absolutely. Please do!

Westlake Girls fly to NBA basketball camp in Abu Dhabi

Rebecca Moors and Amy Pateman jetted to the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday 31 May to join 80 of the top high school age basketball prospects from across Asia and the Middle East for an elite skills camp at the New York University campus in Abu Dhabi. The Year 13 and Year 12 students are two of just 10 Kiwis (five girls and five boys) selected to participate in the 13th Basketball Without Borders Asia camp, hosted by the sport’s governing body, FIBA, and the NBA.

Selected for their athletic prowess, both students are New Zealand age group representatives. Pateman was a member of the New Zealand Under 17 team which competed at the Under 17 World Champs in Budapest last year, and both were members of the New Zealand Under 16 squad in 2021. They will spend five days working on offensive and defensive skills, movement, and efficiency drills as well as sessions on life and leadership capabilities. Coached by current NBA players from the Atlanta Hawks and Washington Wizards and assistant coaches at the Chicago Bulls, Dallas Mavericks, and Brooklyn Nets, this is an exclusive opportunity which has advanced many hopeful campers on to NBA or WNBA careers.

New Zealand female athletes: Elise Gilbert, Olivia Lassey, Kavanah Lene, Rebecca Moors and Amy Pateman

Westlake Girls Snowboarding Trifecta on the Slopes

The Westlake Girls snowboarding team made it three in a row at the 2023 Auckland Secondary Schools Snowboarding Championship last week. For the last three years the well drilled team has been the top Girls Snowboarding team in Auckland. Led by Onewa Sports Prefect, Harriet Gowing, they won the overall Slopestyle and Race categories to win overall school championship once again.

Gowing finished as the fastest racer on the slope winning the Senior Girls Race Championship and Year 11 Meadow Mauger collected the bronze medal for the school. Ella Gregory, impressed in the Junior Race category, winning the Junior championship for the first time. The Year 10 student’s performance cemented the overall title for Westlake Girls in the Slopestyle event of jumps and turns, Naomi Nishida won bronze in the Senior category, and the Mauger sisters of Coco and Meadow joined her to win overall Slopestyle gold medal for Westlake Girls.

The Snowboarding team’s impressive medal haul reflects their commitment to training over the last 5 years. In their first-year season together, they finished 5th at the 2019 Auckland champs, and over the past 4 years they have won 3 consecutive titles. The team is now focused on the North Island Secondary Schools Championship at Mt Ruapehu in September, however, due the uncertainly of the mountain’s fields opening at the moment, the more challenging South Island Secondary Schools Championship may be a more reliable option as a pseudo New Zealand Secondary Schools Championship.

Rebecca Moors Amy Pateman

AKSS board champs

Westlake Girls’ Burundi Team wins Best Overall Team at MUNA 2023

On 26 and 27 May, a group of Year 11-13 students travelled to Auckland Girls Grammar to participate in an event run by Rotary, the Model United Nations Assembly, or MUNA. In this annual event, schools represent different countries and a model general assembly of the United Nations is held. Westlake Girls had two teams of three students each, representing the nations of Burundi and the Netherlands. These teams had to write speeches from their country's position on different issues facing the globe right now, such as water sanitation and gender equality.

Westlake Girls also sent MUNA’s only press team which acts as journalists, creating a video and an in-depth newsletter detailing all of the events that took place. This is sent out to all of the participating schools as well as to Rotary members. This year's MUNA was very successful for Westlake Girls, as the Netherlands team received an Honourable Mention from the judging panel and Burundi was awarded the Supreme title for the Best Overall Team. MUNA is a fantastic opportunity that helps all those involved further their debating and social skills along with current events knowledge.

By Georgia Martin (Year 12 co-editor of the MUNA press team)

2023 Korean Night

Korean Night is an annual event dedicated to sharing Korean culture throughout our community through a diverse range of traditional and modern performances. Some of our traditional performances include doll dance, fan dance, mask dance, samulnori, taekwondo, nanta, and our modern performances include band, K-Pop dance/singing, and rap.

This year, Korean Night was held in the Westlake Boys Auditorium on 2 June. It was very successful with an audience of over 1500 which filled the auditorium with energy.

This year, we have also donated $2023 to Red Cross in support of the victims of the floods which hit us at the start of the year.

Korean Night is an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself and experience fascinating Korean culture. Don’t worry if you have missed out on this year’s event as there is always next year.

We would like to personally thank all teachers, prefects, and students who came to help us on the night. Thank you to all our performers and leaders who have done so much work to bring out such high-quality, stunning performances. Thank you to everyone who came and supported us on behalf of the 2023 Korean Night Committee.

2023 Korean Night Committee Amy Seo

Tuesday

Burundi Best Overall Team 2023 MUNA

Career changer? Recent graduate? Train to teach with us!

Rangitoto College is proud to be a founding school within the Auckland Schools’ Teacher Trainee Programme – a programme which sees talented prospective teachers train in schools while completing their teaching qualifications through Waikato University. We are now recruiting our future trainee teachers for 2024. This is

an excellent opportunity for anyone who is thinking about becoming a teacher, particularly those considering a career change and looking to be immersed in a school environment while they train. Fees are paid and a generous stipend is provided. For more information and to apply, please email traintoteach@rangitoto.school.nz.

“The opportunity to complete a Teaching Diploma, while being immersed in a warm and inviting school culture has been second to none. Rangitoto College has ensured from the very beginning of my time here that I have had the support and guidance necessary to excel in my student-teacher journey. I thoroughly enjoyed forming positive relationships with the students and being able to bring my Honours-level knowledge into my planning and teaching. This innovative programme allowed me to grow and explore my teacher identity while becoming a part of the Rangitoto College whānau. My colleagues’ expertise put me in good stead to graduate with a kete of knowledge and confidence to hit the ground running at the start of this year.”

– Emily Kennedy - 2022 Trainee Teacher and current Rangitoto College Science Teacher

Emily Kennedy

Enrolments 2024 Information Evening

Thursday 20th July 7pm auditorium

Open Day

Friday 21st July

Tour times: 9.00am, 11.45am & 2pm, starting in the college auditorium.

Bookings can be made on: ww w.rangitoto.school.nz/visit-us

Meet the Principal, tour the school and see what great opportunities are offered for our students.

Blessing for new pou

On Wednesday 31 May, the school held a whakawātea (blessing) for our new pou. The newly installed Whanau House art installations were designed by renowned contemporary Māori and tāmoko artist Ben Thomason (Tainui waka).

The purpose of these displays, which are located around the student services courtyard, is to further enhance biculturalism, engage our students and promote school culture and house pride.

The lights are on display 24 hours a day and can be altered to suit occasions such as Waitangi Day and Matariki. We welcome you to come and view the pou after school hours. Once the sun has set, they take on an amazing glow, brightening up this once dimly lit area. We look forward to featuring them in our upcoming Matariki celebration of light and stars.

2023 Kāhui Ako COL - Hui Whakarauora

The Takapuna-Devonport Kāhui Ako held its annual conference on Friday 2 June. It was the fifth conference this local community of learners has held since its establishment in 2016. The event was called ‘Hui Whakarauora’ and its theme was ‘Refresh’, referring to the curriculum refresh that is happening from primary through to high school education in New Zealand.

Over 300 delegates attended the conference at Takapuna Grammar School where teachers and invited guests held workshops and presentations. Andrew Baker (Te Arawa, Tūwharetoa, Irish and Scottish descent), Takapuna Grammar's Board Chair and cultural strategist of ‘Tika Learning’ was the guest speaker. He entertained the audience with stories from his own school days, when his learning journey was steered by significant, transformational teachers. Scan this QR code to watch the welcoming video created by Year 12 students Reuben Brunton and Cruz O’Connor-Hood.

Take a virtual tour of our school

We are excited to announce the launch of our new virtual tour tool, which allows parents to explore our school campus from the comfort of their own homes. With this innovative tool, parents can navigate through the various classrooms, facilities, and grounds of our school using their computer or mobile device. This tool will provide an immersive and interactive experience for parents to get a firsthand look at the school campus and all it has to offer. We hope that this will help parents get a better understanding of our school and its resources. We encourage all parents to take advantage of this exciting new feature and experience our school like never before. Simply scan the QR code with your mobile phone camera.

Prospective students and families are warmly invited to attend on Thursday 20 July in Te Poho school hall

Sessions will be held at 4 00pm and 5 30pm with a presentation from our Principal followed by school tours

We look forward to meeting you soon

TAKAPUNA GRAMMAR SCHOOL OPEN EVENING

Ben Thomason, left

Choral concert at Rosmini College

On Thursday 8 June the Rosmini Chamber Choir and Jazz Combo performed their annual choral concert, along with the Carmini Choir and the Carmel Senior Choir, in preparation for The Big Sing.

All the performances sounded fabulous, and it was great to see such passion and enjoyment in the students.

The Rosmini Chamber Choir finished the evening with its own spin on Mambo Italiano by Bob Merrill, which proved to be a crowd favourite.

Rosmini clinches prestigious trophy

The Rosmini 1st XI became history makers after beating Westlake 3-1 in the North Shore football team derby on 9 June.

This was the first competitive league fixture between the two rivals in many decades, after Rosmini was promoted to the premiership league in 2022 following a 30-year absence.

The victory not only ensured Rosmini three points, but the team also clinched the prestigious Alex Harvey Trophy for the very first time.

Rosmini drama students showcase their talents

The Rosmini Academy of Performing Arts (RAPA) recently performed its production of ‘A Tale of Two Counts’ over three nights at The PumpHouse Theatre.

The comedy-thriller was co-written by Rosmini’s Head of Drama Karen Bellis, along with alumnus Roman Shipton, and was performed by a cast of 25 students from Rosmini College and Carmel College.

The students enjoyed themselves immensely and were well received by the large audiences each night, with laugh-out-loud moments, a fantastic soundtrack, and amazing costumes. Congratulations to all involved.

with Lindsay Knight

Birkenhead success remarkable

Birkenhead has been, for many years, one of Bowls North Harbour’s most consistent and most successful clubs, but even by its high standards what it has achieved in the past season in centre events has been remarkable.

North Harbour runs four fours championships each season, two in men’s and women’s which are open to all bowlers within the centre and two which are only for each club’s champion team.

Birkenhead completed a clean sweep of all four events, winning both the men’s and women’s open championship titles in November and then in May both champion of champion titles.

In March Birkenhead also won the men’s open triples for the Dick Bree Memorial Trophy. ln what was a graphic illustration of the club’s depth each of the three men’s titles won by the club were by 11 different players.

To have just three or four current centre champions in a season is something most clubs would justly celebrate, but to have as many as 11 is surely something unprecedented in the centre’s history.

John Hindmarch, Evan Thomas, Mike Haggart and Peter Nathan won the men’s championship fours and were followed by Daymon Pierson, Steve Yates, Jack Huriwai and Jimmy Heath in the champion of champions.

The winning Dick Bree Memorial triple was David Eades, Nigel Drew and Mark Rumble, the latter gaining his second centre title; early in the season he partnered club-mate Trish Croot to win the mixed pairs tournament.

It wasn’t only Birkenhead’s male bowlers who excelled during the past season.

Trish Croot achieved her centre gold star by winning the mixed pairs, for it was her fifth title. She then skipped Millie Nathan, Lauranne Croot and Connie Mathieson to the women’s fours open title, which gained a gold star for Connie.

Millie, Lauranne and Connie were then joined by third year player

Bev Rolfe in winning the champion of champions title, which earned Millie, who is only a sixth year player, her gold star.

On the same day Daymon Pierson, in skipping the winning men’s team, also earned his centre gold star.

A high women’s standard has been maintained despite the loss of two legendary women’s players in Carole Fredrick, who passed away a couple of years ago and her friend Ruth Lynch who last year moved to Bay of Plenty. They each won 26 centre titles and a national fours title in 2012.

Evan Thomas, who is on Birkenhead’s board and is one of its tournament directors, has no doubt that the club’s success is due to its adherence to simple values.

“I think we have a good camaraderie as a club,” he says. “We gel together and enjoy each other’s company.”

He believes the club benefits from having ideal role models in life members Keith Burgess and Sandy Cleghorn. With another distinguished veteran Lionel Drew, they remain active and competitive on the green as well as continuing to give yeoman service off it.

Keith and Trish Croot, with their coaching expertise, boost the development of newer and junior bowlers and Sandy is the mainstay of one of the club’s main events, the annual Seafood fours tournaments for which this season there was again a bumper entry of 32 teams.

The club’s other flagship events are, of course, the men’s and women’s invitation pairs tournaments in which several of the country’s best players compete. Both were completed in early February despite the challenge of atrocious weather.

bowlsnorthharbour.com

Birkenhead Bowling Club

Daymon Pierson

Time to review your asset structure

Joan and Tom had three trusts. One owned their family home, one owned their holiday home in the Bay of Islands and one had owned their business. Now that the business had been sold, that trust held a share portfolio into which the proceeds of the sale of the business had been invested. Joan and Tom’s accountant was their professional trustee. However, he was getting close to retirement and had indicated that he no longer wished to be a trustee.

Joan and Tom thought it would be good to take the opportunity to completely review their trust structure. They talked to a friend who recommended that they seek advice from a trust specialist. He explained that trust law had become very complex and was firmly out of the domain of general practice lawyers. So Joan and Tom made a time with the specialist trust lawyer he recommended and took the large folders with all their trust documents inside, along.

The lawyer said she would be very happy to review the trust documents but questioned in the first instance why they had so many trusts. Joan and Tom didn’t really know, other than they thought that was what their accountant had recommended at the time. The lawyer advised that when they had their business it was probably a good idea to have had their business in a separate trust. However, now that it had been sold, there was no need to continue to hold the proceeds in a separate trust.

The lawyer also said there was no good reason why the bach was in a separate trust and said it could easily be in the same trust as their family home. She recommended that she review the trust deeds for all three trusts to see which one was most up-to-date in its terms. If there was one that was on modern and flexible terms, she said they could resettle — or transfer the assets from the other trusts into that one. Much had changed since Joan and Tom had set their trusts up and it was important that they were reviewed in light of the new Trusts Act 2019.

If none of the trust deeds were suitable then Joan and Tom could establish a new, modern, flexible trust and transfer all of the assets of the other trusts onto the new trust. Joan was a bit alarmed by this. She had heard that if you moved properties that weren’t your family home out of trusts, then the bright-line test would be re-set. Their new lawyer confirmed that yes, that had been true, until very recently when new legislation introduced roll-over relief. What this meant was that residential properties could now be transferred in certain circumstances from trust to trust with no tax consequences. This was

only a recent development in the law, but one that Joan and Tom could take advantage of.

The restructuring of Joan and Tom’s affairs also included reviewing their wills and their memorandum of wishes for the trust. It had been some time since this had been looked at. The lawyer said it was important to review these documents regularly, either when there was a change in circumstances, or ideally no less than every three years. She also reviewed their enduring powers of attorney to make sure these were still appropriate, and Joan and Tom identified an important change they wanted to make.

Review of your asset structuring is something that needs to be done on a regular basis. It is not only your circumstances that might change, but there can be important changes in the law that may enable you to more easily simplify your affairs, or it may be something that could render your existing documents out of date and not fit for purpose.

It is also important to see a trust specialist. Asset structuring has become complex. Modern lives are more complicated and the documents that govern our affairs are also less straightforward than they used to be. It is always better to document well upfront, rather than have to deal with a messy situation, due to lack of planning, in the future.

Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law

Tammy McLeod (BA LLB) is the managing director at Davenports Law and a trust and asset structuring specialist. Tammy leads the Davenports Trust Team and 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.

Asset Protection. Do You Need a Trust?

The protection of assets that we have all worked so hard to acquire is an important consideration for most people. Trusts are invaluable asset protection mechanisms, which allow a person to hold property and assets on behalf of another for the good of the beneficiaries. However, not everyone needs a trust, so ensuring other forms of asset structuring including your will and enduring powers of attorney are up to date is important. Contact Tammy McLeod or one of the Trust Team for specialist asset structuring and planning advice.

Navigating the attribution rule

Are you an individual providing personal services through an associated entity? If so, it is crucial to understand the implications of the attribution rule and whether it applies to your circumstances.

The attribution rule is designed to prevent high-income individuals from diverting personal services income to associated entities, such as companies, trusts, look-through companies, or partnerships. This article aims to shed light on the attribution rule, its exemptions, and the importance of compliance to avoid potential tax avoidance risks.

Understanding the attribution rule:

The attribution rule should be carefully considered by individuals who provide personal services through an associated entity. If the working person earns more than $70,000 in net income, including income derived from the associated entity, and certain conditions are met, the attribution rule comes into effect. Where all the attribution rule criteria are met, the income derived by the associated entity would need to be attributed to the individual working person.

Exemptions to the attribution rule:

While the attribution rule is intended to ensure fair taxation, there are exemptions that allow for specific situations to be excluded from its application. These exemptions include:

• Non-tax residency. If both the associated entity and the person providing personal services are non-tax residents of New Zealand for the entire income year, the attribution rule does not apply.

• Controlled Foreign Company (CFC). If the associated entity is classified as a Controlled Foreign Company, it is exempt from the attribution rule.

• Substantial business assets. The attribution rule does not apply if the associated entity possesses substantial business assets that are essential to its operations and income generation.

• Threshold amount. If the total amount to be attributed to the working person is less than $5,000, the attribution rule is not applicable.

• Essential support services: If the services being provided are deemed essential support for a product supplied by the associated entity, the attribution rule does not apply.

Tax avoidance risks and Inland Revenue's guidelines

While the exemptions provide clarity, taxpayers should be cautious about structuring entities or arrangements solely to exploit lower tax rates and circumvent their tax obligations. Inland Revenue has issued a revenue alert to guide taxpayers on circumstances that may be deemed as tax avoidance.

Taxpayers should exercise caution, particularly when the service provider receives less than 80% of the income generated from the services provided or when significant benefits arise from the chosen business structure and remuneration levels.

Paying your spouse or relative and the attribution rule

It is important to understand that the attribution rule may also apply to arrangements where an individual pays their spouse or relative a salary from the personal services they provide.

Under the attribution rule, if the associated entity pays a spouse or relative for services they provide, the income derived from those services may be attributed back to the individual who is the main earner or provider of personal services. This means that the income will be treated as if it were earned directly by the main earner, and they will be liable for the tax on that income.

Inland Revenue's enhanced measures

To address potential tax avoidance, Inland Revenue has implemented additional reporting obligations for trusts and introduced new information gathering rules, effective from 1 April 2021. These measures enable Inland Revenue to identify any changes or increased use of trust structures aimed at mitigating the impact of the new tax rate.

Understanding the attribution rule and its exemptions is vital for personal service providers associated with entities. By complying with the attribution rule, individuals can ensure their tax obligations are met appropriately. If you require assistance in determining whether the attribution rule applies to your situation, the tax team at Bellingham Wallace is available to provide expert guidance.

Visit: bellinghamwallace.co.nz

Accountancy with Mike Atkinson of Bellingham Wallace.

If the working person earns more than $70,000 in net income, including income derived from the associated entity, and certain conditions are met, the attribution rule comes into effect.

By Kesha Meredith, Registered Legal Executive (Fellow).

Kesha is a friendly and empathetic legal executive with a background in trusts and a specialty for estate planning. With a huge variety of expertise across estates and trusts administration, Kesha has the fantastic ability to provide a smooth process for clients. She is passionate about working with families to help them get closer to their desired outcomes.

Kesha Meredith

Current High Court delays with issuing probates

One of the first duties of an executor named in a will is to obtain probate where the estate’s assets are over $15,000. Generally speaking, as the current asset threshold for probate is so low, most modern estates now require probate.

Probate is the Court-issued document that gives the executors the legal authority to deal with the estate and carry out the terms of the will. Executors cannot rely on powers given to them under an Enduring Power of Attorney as these cease to have legal effect when the person passes. Until legal authority is granted by the Court through probate, very little is able to be actioned by the executors in relation to the estate’s assets and liabilities. It is important to find out what you can and can’t do before you take any steps that may complicate matters.

How long before an executor can deal with the estate? Currently, the High Court is experiencing a significant backlog and probate or Letters of Administration are taking up to three or four months to process once filed. Where the application is complex, processing times may increase significantly.

Prior to Covid, applications for probate took approximately six weeks to be processed. The High Court has advised that there are various reasons for the current delays, which include staff shortages, the ongoing effects of Covid isolations, general absences among staff for sickness, and a lack of fully trained registrars.

These delays can affect administration of the estate significantly, as until probate is granted the bank accounts of the deceased are frozen and assets are unable to be dealt with. Freezing of the bank accounts can result in delays to payment of expenses such as rates, water, and insurance where the deceased owned a property, particularly where family of the deceased are unable to cover such expenses from their own funds. It also means that assets such as property are unable to be sold, as executors do not have legal authority to deal with estate assets until probate is granted. However, there are ways to overcome some of these issues should the need arise and you should seek advice from an estates practitioner.

For beneficiaries, there can be a longer delay. To protect the executors against a possible claim, there is a statutory six-month non-distribution period that does not start until probate is granted. Accordingly, in many circumstances, beneficiaries are having to wait a minimum of 10 months until distribution can be made. Communicating with beneficiaries, and managingtheir expectations, is becoming more important with the longer delays.

The High Court has advised that they have taken measures to rectify the backlog, such as emplying and training more registrars and delegating applications throughout the country in an effort to speed up processing times. To date, these measures do not appear to be reducing processing times significantly. However it does take some time to train new registrars and we hope to see faster processing soon. Schnauer & Co,

schnauer.com

The value of an International Baccalaureate education

I am often asked what I see as the benefits of an International Baccalaureate (IB) education for primary school aged children. When answering this question, I’m able to draw on the experience I’ve had of seeing my own children learn this curriculum and also from decades of teaching the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and other educational programmes from Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the USA, at top schools around the world.

What I love about the IB’s PYP is the way in which it requires all students to be actively engaged. They are taught to think critically about their world. Alongside this, they develop the skills to formulate questions and learn how to respond in creative and innovative ways to important issues.

The units of inquiry around which the programme is structured connect children first to their own experiences and interests. These allow for plenty of ‘hands-on’ activities, before expertly guiding them to connect their emerging knowledge and understanding to local and then global contexts.

A Unit of Inquiry looking at ‘Sharing the Planet’ for example, may start with sampling of water quality in a local creek. This leads naturally to making real-life connections with maths percentages and measurements. The next step might be to investigate water issues facing the local community and then consider world issues where access to clean water, drought or floods is also relevant. This could culminate in thinking about how students apply what they have learned, such as taking personal action to conserve water and also using persuasive language to convince others to do likewise.

By the time students reach Year 6, they have acquired the knowledge, skills and attitudes to collaborate on personal projects of their choice which are connected to the UN Sustainable Development goals.

Every year I am amazed at the eloquence and independence shown by these students as they present their findings to both student and adult audiences at an exhibition.

All students at Kristin School, from Kindergarten to Year 10, benefit from the IB PYP and then the Middle Years Programme (MYP), which is delivered alongside elements of the New Zealand curriculum. Students in Kristin’s Senior School are then able to opt for either the IB Diploma Programme or NCEA for their final years at school.

The objectives of the IB align well with Kristin’s values; the development of inquiring, knowledgeable, confident, and caring young people, who take ownership of their own learning and develop future ready skills to thrive in a fast-changing world.

At Kristin, we are very fortunate to have passionate teachers who deliver these programmes for the benefit of Kristin’s students

The units of inquiry around which the programme is structured connect children first to their own experiences and interests.

The Devonport Citizens Silver Band

By David Verran

Since I wrote my column about the history of the various brass bands across the North Shore, people have asked me for more information on the Devonport Citizens Silver Band. Unfortunately, there are no surviving minutes or other records that I could locate, and I have had to rely on the odd newspaper report and online registration details for when they became an Incorporated Society.

This new Devonport band was formed in late 1957 and was formally incorporated on 1 September 1959 by its secretary Cyril Poland (1909-1979). Poland gave his occupation at that time as a fire engine driver and was based at the Takapuna Fire Station in Killarney Street. The former conductor of the Takapuna Silver Band, Harry Christensen (1893-1963), became the conductor of the new band, which also claimed ancestry with the Devonport band that had been wound up in 1936. The Devonport Borough Council enabled the new Devonport-based band to use the former band room on Mount Victoria. No less than 15 players eventually shifted over from the Takapuna band to the new Devonport band, with some claiming the Takapuna band was all about 'drilling' and not about music.

In June 1960 Roy William Brinsden (1899-1988) replaced Christensen as conductor of the Devonport band, and also became band instructor at Takapuna Grammar School. Brinsden lent the

Devonport band some instruments, and brought with him his fifteen and a half years experience as band master with the Royal New Zealand Air Force. The band also relied on donations to pay for copies of music and instrument repairs.

The Devonport band was much more a local band than the Takapuna band which went on to win national competitions. The Devonport Borough Council continued to assist the Devonport band. For example in 1966 it paid 100 pounds to the band in return for six public performances. Fred Anthony was their bandmaster from 1959 to at least 1994, when the 23-member band was noted for having no formal uniforms, no subscriptions and not participating in competitions. The band was particularly known for Christmas and ANZAC day performances.

From 8 December 1993 the Takapuna City Silver Band became North Shore Brass, and now is the only surviving brass band on the North Shore. Although the Devonport band started a woodwind section around July 2007 it was finally wound up on 2 July 2009, after 52 years. In line with a number of other community organisations over the years, the number of band members was decreasing and there were no new members coming on, with any remaining funds going to the North Shore Hospice.

david.verran@xtra.co.nz

1613-04-10 courtesy of Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections. The Devonport band rotunda in Windsor Reserve in the early 21st century

By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager

Bring the community together

Thanks to everyone who came along to our AGM on 7 June. It was lovely to see you all and to meet some new neighbours who are keen to get involved in the wonderful work we do for our community.

Thanks to the management committee who were all happy to stay on for another year. Special thanks to Simon Watson (Chairperson), Carol Lungevich-Grigor (Secretary) and Samik Basu (Treasurer).

We held another community dinner on Sunday 11 June for those families in our community who were affected by the flooding. I would like to thank Rotary for funding this and Mayfield Sportshouse, Wairau Road, for once again providing amazing food. Thanks also to the team of volunteers from the Sunnynook Baptist Church who happily came along and helped setup and cleanup. Such great teamwork.

We recently had a couple of meetings with Rebecca Smith who is the new North Shore coordinator for Neighbourhood Support North Shore. She gave us the following message to pass on:

By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability

Yes team completes the ice bucket challenge

It has been a cold one the last couple of weeks, we are well into the winter season and what a better way to warm up then doing an ice bucket challenge. That’s right the Yes team completed an office ice bucket challenge to show support and spread awareness for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) New Zealand. Last month some of the team went down to Christchurch as part of the Federation conference. One of the speakers was the CEO of MND, Scott Arrol. He spoke about the impacts of this disease and how the public can support the cause. June was MND awareness month and MND New Zealand proposed the challenge to take part in an ice bucket challenge or for those who are unable, to enjoy a hot cup of tea as a sign of support. The team had such a blast; the entire building came out and watched, which is exactly what we aimed for. Spreading awareness is key and motivating others to help as well, with some also feeling the need to donate to the cause. Keep an eye out on our social media for the photos and the hilarious videos as they will be shared with you all.

Do you know your immediate neighbours?

Can you give the names of the people living in five houses on your street? Back in our day people knew who were living on their street. They knew their names and even their children’s names. Street gatherings were common, crime was low. People gathered together in emergencies.

Imagine if your street was like that now; your neighbours knew each other, helped out in times of need or emergency, kept an eye out on your street, were aware when strangers were around, and communicated about important things. Help us bring back strong, resilient, and prepared streets and communities. Join up with Neighbourhood Support.

Join your street up with us and receive Neighbourhood Support signs to put up in your street. Have CCTV cameras? We have CCTV signs with the Neighbourhood Support and New Zealand Police logos.

Our fortnightly newsletter is full of useful information about being prepared for emergencies, raising resilience, and preventing crime, including current messages from our strategic partnerships including New Zealand Police.

Join up FREE today at nsnorthshore.org.nz.

sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz office@sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz.

In the spirit of spreading awareness the I.Lead team hosted I.Style. This was an awesome workshop designed by young people with disabilities for young people with disabilities. The aim was to help the young people enhance their natural looks and give them some great tips and tricks for looking and feeling their best. We focused on the challenges that the young people identified and provided them with tools and tips that they can use independently for any occasion. At I.Style, we had a range of workstations for them to check out, including hairdressers/barbers, makeup artists, cologne experts, and a clothes stylist. The young people learned from some amazing professionals who helped them find their own unique style.

yesdisability.org.nz, ilead.org.nz Facebook- facebook.com/ileadconferencenz Instagram- instagram.com/i.leadnz/

Back in our day people knew who were living on their street. They knew their names and even their children’s names. Street gatherings were common, crime was low.

Slam poetry and youth art this July

By Adriana Tobin, co-chair of Younite

Younite’s members have been working diligently to bring our rangatahi three exciting and unique events this month. Please join us in these exciting events we have lined up for July.

Youth art exhibition

Younite’s Arts and Culture Committee is excited to be hosting a youth art exhibition. The art exhibition will take place at Lake House Arts Centre from Friday 30 July – Monday 10 August. If you enjoy art exhibitions or are looking to purchase a piece, please come along to show your support to our rangatahi. Food and entertainment will be provided. We are also currently accepting submissions. This exhibition will allow you to display your work and sell your pieces in a safe and professional setting. We welcome all artists aged 12-24 who live, work, or play in the Devonport-Takapuna area to submit their artworks. To submit, please scan the QR code below. To learn more about this event please visit our Instagram page @younitedt.

By Shore Junction’s Youth Development Specialist Josh Martin

Celebrating colours of pride at Shore Junction

In the vibrant heart of North Shore, Shore Junction has been a beacon for our local youth, fostering community, creativity, and growth. This past month, in honour of Pride Month, Shore Junction has overflowed with even more colour and spirit, showcasing a series of engaging and poignant events.

One stand-out was the riveting panel discussion led by Ashe, our dedicated youth worker, and Jo from the globally acclaimed podcast 'Transparent'. Providing a safe platform for discourse and inquiry, they shared their own stories and lent their insights to young people on their journey through self-discovery. This wasn't just a talk; it was a celebration of the beauty of identity and the strength of trans youth.

Slam poetry night

Our community sub-committee will be hosting a slam poetry night at the Lake House Arts Centre on Monday 3 July from 6-8pm. If you enjoy the creative and exciting atmosphere of slam poetry this is the event for you. This will be an amazing experience you don’t want to miss out on. Food will be provided. If you are interested in performing slam poetry or a musical piece you can sign up through the link in our Instagram bio @younitedt or scan the QR code below.

At the heart of Shore Junction, the rangatahi have been crafting a rainbow bench – a symbol of support and safety, a colourful perch for open conversation with our compassionate LGBTQI+ staff. This bench, once completed, will be more than a seat. It will be a testament to our belief in inclusivity, a tangible affirmation of our commitment to our young community.

Our end of term 2 celebration, a spectacular event filled with cupcakes, laughter, fun music and unbridled joy, brought together both members of the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. It was a poignant tableau of unity, a vivid testament to the magic of togetherness.

While the festivities of Pride Month have been spectacular, it's the spirit behind them that has made the difference. As we look back at the month gone by, it's clear that the true colours of Shore Junction are painted with acceptance, support, and unyielding awhi and aroha for all.

Make sure you and your friends do not miss out on these exciting events coming up. For any questions, queries regarding these events or the work we do, feel free to reach us at younitechair@gmail.com.

In the words of Audre Lorde, "It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognise, accept, and celebrate those differences." At Shore Junction, we live by this truth. We believe in the strength that comes from embracing diversity, and we're committed to being a safe haven for all who walk through our doors. Here's to a future where everyone, no matter their identity, can truly be themselves.

shorejunction.nz

Lisa Yuan and Adriana Tobin

This exhibition will allow you to display your work and sell your pieces in a safe and professional setting.

By Richard Thorne, Devonport Business Improvement District Manager

Devonport village – the stars are out! Ngā mihi ano ki a koutou!

An uncertain future - you may already know that the Devonport Takapuna Local Board has withdrawn all funding for the Takapuna North and Devonport Peninsula Trusts. The future is uncertain, and, speaking for Devonport Peninsula Trust, will require a full review of how the Trust can operate in the future, and what new support it can attract to continue its work.

However, I would say that community co-ordinators before me, and I, with the Trust teams, have enjoyed bringing the community together at community events and activities over the years, and bringing Channel Magazine readers our updates on those activities.

Mid-winter dip - 25 June at Windsor Reserve beach

The Druid points the way to the faithful!

We understand

Sunday 25 June to have been the 25th anniversary of this annual event. Another group of the ‘Bold and the Brave’ braced themselves before taking the plunge. It was definitely a case of "no sooner in than out" for some, although some seemed to be happy to "chill". Thanks to all who brought it together, and all those who were there.

Matariki. The Trust has been instrumental in seeking funding, and bringing organisations together to plan and share a range of opportunities with the community: tree planting, lantern-making, hikoi to the summits of both Takarunga and Maungauika, a community kapa haka group in action, making activities at the library and at Te Whare Toi, stories, song, leadership by kaumatua – wonderful.

I hope that you see this in time to consider joining the Windsor Reserve event on 15 July – just a further opportunity to "build community".

For event communications, email abby@dpt.nz

For general enquiries, etc, email nigel@dpt.nz For events information, go to dpt.nz

The history and spectacular geography of the Devonport peninsula naturally engenders a sense of pride among residents of the suburbs it encompasses, and with that an unusually strong sense of community spirit amongst the many agencies that make up the community-led organisation sector.

Devonport hosted a fantastically successful celebration of Matariki in 2022 and planning discussions for Matariki 2023 began soon after – with the unusual challenge of needing to tamper enthusiasm for joining in the fun of a largescale hikoi up North Shore’s highest volcano, Takarunga / Mt Victoria.

The result of several months of coordinated community organisation planning was revealed late June, with the release of a Matariki celebration brochure showing local events running through until the end of July.

Of course it’s largely about encouraging our tamariki to participate and learn, and a key aspect of the activities is lantern making, with sessions being held at primary schools, as well as Devonport Community House and the Navy Museum at Torpedo Bay.

The Community Matariki Celebration being held at Windsor Reserve on Saturday 15 July, will provide the opportunity for all those lanterns to come together (as so many did last year) to share waiata, stories and performances in the late afternoon onwards.

With the aid of funding provided by the Devonport Takapuna Local Board, the Devonport Business Association is adding its support to that (weather permitting!) spectacular gathering, as well as other events during the first weeks of July leading up to the mid-month Matariki public holiday long weekend.

There are plenty of stars year-round among Devonport’s food and beverage providers, but in that fortnight period nine of our restaurants and cafés will be promoting the individual Matariki stars with posters in their windows. Our Matariki Star Hunt competition is aimed at entertaining and educating children up to age 14, along with their parents and caregivers. Entry forms are available from the Devonport library.

Many Devonport restaurants are also offering special dishes for that Matariki celebration period, with culinary inspiration drawn from the individual meaning of one of the nine stars.

Aotearoa’s winter solstice has passed and the days are lengthening! Come and visit our village with the stars this Matariki and enjoy some of what Devonport has to offer in winter.

Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz

Devonport Community News for this month with Nigel Bioletti, Trust Manager, Devonport Peninsula Trust

Mid-winter dip

Ian Rea Trust Chairand Maddy Crawford Trust Staff Member dish out wonderful 'Officers' Mess' Pumpkin soup

Do you have this pest plant in your backyard?

July pest plant of the month: Agapanthus

Agapanthus forms dense umbrella-like clusters with white root rhizomes and dark green leathery leaves that displace and prevent native species from regenerating. Its purple flowers are visible from December to February and they produce thin, papery, black seeds that are wind dispersed. The plant can also spread from fragments of the root rhizome in contaminated soil.

Take action as soon as possible:

• Dig out small infestations, trying to remove most parts of the root rhizomes; agapanthus can regrow from rhizomes that are left in the ground.

• For medium to large infestations, use a pruning saw, spade or another hand tool to cut the stem close to the ground. Quickly apply a thin film of MetGel onto the cut stump or rhizomes.

• Follow up in three months to reapply herbicide and ensure all regrowth has died.

• Dispose of the flowers and any rhizomes and roots in your rubbish bin to go to landfill, securely tied inside a plastic bag – to stop it spreading to other areas.

• If you are short on time, just removing the flowers/seed heads to prevent seed dispersal is very worthwhile.

• Talk to your neighbours and encourage them to take action too!

There are several environmental networks across Auckland’s North Shore that support communities to recognise, report and remove pest plants and restore our native wildlife.

East Coast Bays and Hibiscus Coast, Restore Hibiscus & Bays info@restorehb.org.nz, restorehb.org.nz/resources-pest-plants/ Facebook.com/RestoreHB

Kaipātiki, Pest Free Kaipātiki (PFK), enquiries@pestfreekaipatiki.org.nz https://www.pfk.org.nz/pest-plant-resources Facebook.com/pestfreekaipatiki/

Takapuna, Pupuke Birdsong Project, enviro@takapunatrust.org.nz Facebook.com/pupukebirdsongproject

Devonport Peninsula, Restoring Takarunga Hauraki pestfreedevonport@gmail.com, Facebook.com/restoringtakarungahauraki/

Upper Harbour, Upper Waitematā Ecology Network (UWEN) info@upperharbourecologynetwork.org Facebook.com/ @upperwaitemataecologynetwork

For advice on chemical-free alternatives, Kaipātiki Project community@kaipatiki.org.nz kaipatiki.org.nz Facebook.com/kaipatikiproject

This monthly feature is a collaborative initiative between Restore Hibiscus & Bays, Pest Free Kaipātiki Restoration Society, Pupuke Birdsong Project, Restoring Takarunga Hauraki, the Upper Waitematā Ecology Network and Kaipātiki Project. Building on Te Ao Māori principles of kaitiakitanga and whanaungatanga, these environmental networks bring our communities together to foster guardianship, care and respect towards our whenua, natural world and indigenous wildlife.

Can landlords take a holiday?

It’s the time of year when many people are planning a trip to somewhere a little warmer than Auckland. If you’re lucky enough to be one of them, and you have a tenanted rental property that you manage yourself, make sure you don’t break the law!

Landlords are certainly allowed a holiday, but if you’ll be away from New Zealand for more than 21 days, the Tenancies Act requires you to appoint an agent to manage the property while you are away, and provide their contact details to your tenant.

This is probably one of those times where legislation has not kept up with changes in technology. These days it’s no harder for a tenant to contact a landlord in the Gold Coast than Golden Bay. But be aware of your obligations, as the Tenancy Tribunal has a very low tolerance for breaches.

You can appoint anybody as your agent; they don’t need to be a professional property manager. However, as a special offer for Channel Mag readers this month, we can act as your agent while you are overseas for up to three months, free of charge! We won’t collect the rent or do physical inspections as we do for our normal clients, but we’ll be the contact for your tenant in case any issues or emergencies arise, and can even organise maintenance for you while you are away (maintenance fees will apply). Tenancy law aside, this should make for a more relaxing holiday for you!

… as a special offer for Channel Mag readers this month, we can act as your agent while you are overseas for up to three months, free of charge!

As a quick update, the North Shore rental market is still affected by the aftermath of the January floods. There are significantly fewer rental properties available than normal at this time of year, coupled with higher demand. The result has been a record increase in weekly asking prices, rising 10% to a median $660 in May, according to figures from TradeMe.

Louise Benson, Head of Property Management

Barfoot and Thompson Milford 027 431 9536

milford.rental@barfoot.co.nz

By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd

Make a sale any season with Yan Davies

The many benefits of selling in winter include...

Less competition. Many homeowners prefer to wait until spring or summer to sell their homes, so the winter season often has fewer listings. With less competition, your property may attract more attention from potential buyers.

Serious buyers. The buyers who are active during the winter season are often more motivated and serious about purchasing a home. They might be relocating due to job changes, family needs or other urgent reasons, which can lead to faster and smoother transactions.

Faster Sale. Due to the lower inventory and motivated buyers, homes can often sell more quickly during winter. If your property stands out and is appropriately priced, it may receive multiple offers or sell at or above the asking price.

Higher sale price. Limited supply and increased demand during winter can lead to a higher sale price for your property. Buyers might be willing to pay a premium if they are eager to secure a home during the off-season.

Showcase unique features. If your property has winter-related features like a cozy fireplace, radiant heating or a well-insulated design, the winter season provides an excellent opportunity to highlight these features and appeal to buyers who value such amenities.

Easier staging. Winter allows you to showcase your home with tasteful decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Properly staged homes can make a strong emotional connection with buyers who value great presentation.

Favourable negotiations. Motivated buyers may be more open to negotiation at this time. You may have more leverage in price discussions, repairs or other terms of the sale.

It is important to note that the benefits of selling in winter can vary depending on your specific location, the local real estate market and other factors. Consulting with me can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision based on circumstances.

Yan Davies a long time North Shore local, has amassed a wide network of clients and superior knowledge of the area. She is an active Milford Boating Club member and is resolute in maximising the value of her clients’ assets. Clients choose Yan for her engaging, results-driven approach to the sales process. She holds a Masters degree in business and administration, and speaks English and Chinese fluently.

Davies 燕 Residential Salesperson

Bayleys Takapuna

021 585 590, yan.davies@bayleys.co.nz

Licensed under the REA Act 2008

28 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland, New Zealand

WeChat ID: YanDavies021585590

Louise Benson, Head of Property Management Barfoot and Thompson Milford

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 a dozen years ago!).

Frustrating madness

Well, we’re past the shortest day and now heading back into summertime. Thank goodness for that; it’s been an arduous winter so far.

On the first of June, I went to a meeting in Devonport that was instigated by the Devonport Business Association. It was a special general meeting to discuss the Devonport Safe Speed proposals. These include no fewer than eight raised pedestrian crossings, the first one at the top of Victoria Road, then at the intersection of Victoria and Calliope Roads, two in Kerr Street, then the crossing outside the Victoria Theatre, another outside the Patriot Bar and another on the corner of Victoria and Flagstaff Avenue and two more adjacent to the Devonport library.

This project is being constructed in partnership with Auckland Transport and Fulton Hogan, with a price tag of $3million-plus. This equates to $375,000 per crossing, which to me is an astronomical cost for a few days digging, trucking away and a couple of truckloads of certified concrete. I have been given word, on good authority, that the road control itself is in excess of half a million dollars. At this meeting, the Devonport Business Association voted unanimously that they did not want this construction and disruption to the streets of Devonport.

It was great to see, finally, the opening of the new motorway between Puhoi and Warkworth, on the weekend of 24-25 June. And then on 27 and 28 June, the Dome Valley highway had to close because of rock falls and all northern traffic was diverted up State Highway 16 to Wellsford, and then further north.

The special general meeting was preceded by a presentation from Auckland Transport, whose representatives told the meeting that they were there to consult and get feedback from the community. This we now know was absolute rubbish, as they started construction a week later at the top of Victoria Road, much to the consternation of the locals. It was mentioned many times at this meeting that the $3millionplus would be better off reconstructing the roads out at Muriwai and Piha that were smashed in the recent weather events. Devonport didn’t want this and doesn’t need it, whereas the communities out west do

want it, and do need it but are not getting it. It’s just madness. I have friends who are farmers and live down south in the heartland, in a small town in the Horowhenua area. One of the members of the family works at the local polytechnic. He tells me on very good authority, that two local secondary schools on Mondays get Ka Ora Ka Ako, otherwise known as the Healthy School Lunch programme. So these lunches get duly delivered to these two schools, just prior to lunchtime and consist of chicken wraps, beef wraps, vegetarian wrap, muffins and fruit. If these lunches aren’t used by mid-afternoon, they are taken to the local polytech cafeteria so the students can consume these, as needed or wanted on Tuesday. Come late afternoon Tuesday, much of this food is still leftover in the student cafeteria, so it is then packed into black plastic rubbish sacks to be dumped. This doesn’t happen, as my friend takes it all and unwraps it and feeds it to his pigs. So we have happy pigs at the taxpayers' expense. I’m sure this wastage goes on in every school in New Zealand that receives the privilege of government-supplied school lunches. I remember having peanut butter sandwiches all my school life, which my mother used to make for all of us, every morning. She’d do this after the bowl of porridge was served for breakfast, every morning.

I’m going back to the roads. It is so funny that when you drive out of the intersection at Bayswater Avenue on to Williamson Avenue, Auckland Transport has spent so much money painting the big red stripe on the road, and two new signs showing 30km speed limit. Just over the red paint is a very large pothole that has been patched several times but not fixed and is just outside one of the new apartment construction sites. It’s a very big pothole and surely could have been fixed if they’d redirected the money that was spent on the red paint and signs?

It was great to see, finally, the opening of the new motorway between Puhoi and Warkworth, on the weekend of 24-25 June. And then on 27 and 28 June, the Dome Valley highway had to close because of rock falls and all northern traffic was diverted up State Highway 16 to Wellsford, and then further north.

I just cannot believe Waka Kotahi did not have a masterplan to get that road done properly through the Dome Valley. It’s shameful. I heard that very little actual maintenance has been done on these roads for some years, hence the state of our country’s main roads. This severely impacts on people’s lives, not only from a safety aspect, and we all know about the Road to Zero campaign and the cost of that. These are tradespeople, truck drivers delivering, emergency vehicles and so forth, who depend on being able to get to and from their workplaces safely in a reasonable time frame.

Another one, there is a huge new housing estate out in the Riverhead and Kumeu areas and the traffic jams there are a disgrace because proper thought and infrastructure has not been put in place. It’s very frustrating… that’s another month of grumbles. I’ll see you next month.

FIFA World Cup party ready!

On hearing about the FIFA World Cup being held in Auckland this month, Takapuna Boating Club said, “How can we help?”

After one of the club members, Sandra Smedhall, was also recently appointed a Community Champion for FIFA Women’s World Cup, representing Sweden, ideas started to form.

“After a bit of planning, we have now confirmed that Takapuna Boating Club will be transformed into ‘Klubb Skandinavien’ during the games,” says Sandra.

She had a virtual meeting with the Swedish Football Association. “They are very excited about what we are planning,” she says. Its national team is currently ranked third in the world.

The Swedish Honorary Consul has also visited the club to meet the planning committee. “It is our hope that the wider Scandinavian community (and their Kiwi friends) will come together for this special event,” says Sandra.

“The Swedish national team want to come to Auckland at some point, but we are not yet sure when it could fit into their schedule. We hope to be able to arrange something for the whole community to come together then and meet the players.”

Viewing events for matches will be open to members and guests. Sandra says, “We just want to get people together and celebrate ‘the beautiful game’, and hopefully cheer on our teams to go far in the tournament.”

She says this initiative fits in well with Takapuna Boating Club’s desire to support community-based activities and events – on and off the water.

“We will be showing seven out of the nine Scandinavian games here at the club (unfortunately two of the Danish games are played at midnight), and we will be decking it out with Scandinavian colours and decorations.”

She adds, “Our club chef will be preparing Scandinavian dishes for people to try, and we will have some drinks specials too. The first game, between New Zealand and Norway on Thursday 20 July is sure to be a big one!”

Let the games begin! Takapuna Boating Club's Sandra Smedhall is one of 150 Community Champions for the FIFA World Cup starting this month

… we have now confirmed that Takapuna Boating Club will be transformed into ‘Klubb Skandinavien’ during the games…

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.

Pull-up Banners 600mm, 850mm, 1200mmm wide

x 2.3m Fabric Flat Tensioned Displays

The Channel Crossword

“Sleeping with the angels” • Set by Māyā (https://mayaofauckland.com/), each month for Channel. No. 88

Across

1 Chase your dreams, like Christiaan Barnard perhaps? (6,4,5)

9 23's affected by Heather's secrets (9)

10 Pen with sacrament, perhaps (5)

11 Element from Troy dropping Latin for free (7)

13 I went over leading James article to find the site of a famous flag-raising (3,4)

14 Going mute, oddly, at dance from 12 (5)

15 Marsh, with lowered head, interrupting attempt to access a narrow ridge of hills (7)

17 Hang around our Leo's unloved celestial navigation coordinate (4,5)

19 Blanket inlet and river (5)

20 Moderated graduate's talk (5)

21 Bear on spruce one's against (7,2)

22 Dish upset knight and Herr Flick (7)

24 Backstreet hairdresser? I'm told he overheard thieves' secret (3,4)

26 16 12 work describing the Pharaoh's feet? (5,2,3,5)

Down

1 16 12 work providing fare for frequent flyers (7,3,5)

2 16 12 work can breed painful condition, Oates figures (7,3,2,3)

3 Serious case dismissed, award given to 16 12 (3)

4 Loathing new penny replacing old drug (5)

5 Skirting westbound boulevard with small dent (7)

6 16 12 work giving advice on tickling? (3,2,5,1,4)

7 I bail out, which is why I wasn't there (5)

8 16 12 work revising grandfather's 23 (3,7,2,3)

12 Acquire "Landfall" extract for Jowsey's replacement (7)

15 Elevated confirmation that this is very alcoholic (4-5)

16 Bacon from Kenya and wine from Nancy, perhaps (5)

18 Scold bully as rehab (7)

23 Theory of evolution leads to part of a foot (3)

25 Lady singer losing head to cooker of posh meal (3)

Solution to last month's crossword

This month's crossword will also be uploaded to the creator’s blog at: channelcrossword.wordpress.com There, Mãyã will kindly attempt to answer any questions or comments that may arise from the crosswords each month.

I would not hesitate to recommend Kathryn.”

TAKAPUNA TO DEVONPORT RESIDENTIAL SPECIALIST

is experienced and well-networked.

Established in the property industry for over 13 years, Kathryn sells throughout the North Shore, specialising in the Takapuna to Devonport peninsula. She www.kathrynrobertson.bayleys.co.nz

“I was delighted with her unquestionable integrity and trustworthiness throughout. She was insightful and agile in trying to navigate difficult issues and was totally solution focused. I was impressed with her commercial acumen and her very high service levels. She is very driven but this drive is balanced by a unique ability to bring parties together and build a relationship through the process. A hugely talented real estate professional. I would not hesitate to recommend Kathryn.”

J Biddles, Devonport

Hauraki 2/71 Jutland Road

Hauraki 4/4 Jutland Road

Devonport 2/77 Aramoana Avenue

Takapuna 1A William Street

Devonport 26 Tainui Road

Devonport 16 Calliope Road

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Introducing… The Property Channel Never been a better time to buy?

When looking at the housing market, or anything in life for that matter, you can choose a glass half full or glass half empty attitude. At Channel, the glass is always (at least) half full; we are all about supporting Shore people, business and charitable organisations to see the best in local life. And, of course, this includes the local property market. We’re therefore getting behind local residents and agents wanting to sell their homes, with a new addition to the Channel fold – The Property Channel.

Here, each month, we’ll showcase some of the impressive North Shore homes on the market and the agents working on behalf of homeowners to sell them. Everyone’s situation is unique, and homeowners and buyers choose to work with different agents for a variety of reasons. Finding a good fit is crucial, not only for sales success, but a smooth and efficient sale.

With national and regional property prices having declined since their (surprising to many) late-Covid pandemic high, the time could be said to be ripe for those keen to buy while we experience a sale price dip.

Data from the New Zealand Property Report, by realestate.co.nz, suggests that average asking prices may have hit the low point following the turbulent past few years. After peaking in January 2022, average asking prices steadily decreased until a slight lift in March this year. Since then, prices have maintained this level and remain steady.

Property spokesperson for realestate.co.nz Vanessa Williams says the pandemic, inflation, rising interest rates and recession fears have all impacted the New Zealand property market:

"I suspect we may have reached a so-called 'bottom' of this trend or, at the very least, a turning point. But we will have to watch what happens in the coming months to know for sure."

So, the housing market may now have bottomed out, but average asking prices are still up 22.5% on pre-Covid-19 levels.

Despite negative press, average asking prices are still above what they were pre-Covid-19 – up 22.5% on pre-pandemic levels. This can be viewed as good news for property owners concerned about shrinking equity.

"Typically, property isn't a short-term investment. Looking back over the last 16 years of our data, no matter what's happened economically, average asking prices have always increased in the long term," explains Vanessa.

Welcome to our first taste of The Property Channel this month. We believe this new initiative will grow further in coming months.

If you’re keen to showcase your North Shore property in our pages, with 21,500 copies published each month, contact Liz Cannon liz@channelmag.co.nz 021 204 3395 or Kim McIntosh kim@channelmag.co.nz 021 419 468.

21 Prospect Terrace Milford

Outstanding Development Opportunity

4 Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Garage

Rory Blair 0210 0233 8073

Alistair Laurie 0274 922 156

rory@prestierealestate co nz

alistair@prestigerealestate.co.nz

prestigerealestate co nz

128 Churchill Road Rothesay Bay

Magnificent Seaviews, Location & Quality

4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2 Garage

1012 sqm (more or less) quarter acre level section Wide 20 metre road frontage North facing, all day sun, exceptionally private with 200 degree views over Milford's foreshore and beyond to The Hauraki Gulf, Rangitoto Island and the shipping channel

A Family Estate Realization for sale for the 1st time since 1959, includes a substantial 4 bedroom architect designed home built in 1980 that is situated at the highest point on the seaward side of Prospect Terrace

Prestige Real Estate International Ltd

Licenced Real Estate Agent REAA 2008

Rory Blair 0210 0233 8073

Craig Crosweller 0274 922 156

rory@prestierealestate co nz

craig@prestigerealestate co nz

prestigerealestate.co.nz

You'll be hard-pressed to find a better North facing sea view than that enjoyed from this stunning home in Rothesay Bay on Auckland's North Shore No expense was spared in the creation of this family home which was fully redesigned and renovated by well respected Synergy Homes

With a low maintenance luxurious lifestyle that will suit those at all stages of life, this home offers four bedrooms, three bathrooms, two lounges, open plan family living and kitchen, internal access two car garaging and a rear outdoor courtyard

Exceptional Penthouse by the Beach

We are delighted to invite you to the pinnacle of luxury living at Kauri Residences, situated in Browns Bay, Auckland. A bespoke design by Award winning Matz Architects, the penthouse exudes matchless artistry, attention to detail and elegance - be the first to indulge in the luxury that this residence has to offer, the last available penthouse apartment, elegantly perched on the 5th floor, awaits your discovery.

This remarkable three bedroom, 2.5 bathroom penthouse offers a lavish and contemporary lifestyle, perfectly complemented by its incredible location just 300 metres from the pristine Browns Bay beach.

The spacious kitchen is a chef’s dream, equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, including a wine fridge and an integrated French door fridge/freezer. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or preparing a gourmet meal, this kitchen provides everything you need to create culinary masterpieces.

The penthouse’s 47 square metres of private, sundrenched, North/Northwest facing decking ensures breathtaking sea views that will leave you in awe and will have you basking in the sun - perfect for those long summer evenings. The generous outdoor living space is a haven of tranquility, complete with a cedar hot tub, inviting you to unwind and soak in the serenity. An indoor/outdoor fireplace adds a touch of warmth and elegance, allowing you to enjoy the space throughout the seasons.

With its near completion, you have the opportunity to be the first to experience the luxurious lifestyle offered by this extraordinary residence.

With its prime location near Browns Bay beach, you’ll have easy access to a vibrant coastal lifestyle. Enjoy leisurely walks along the sandy shores, explore the charming local shops and restaurants, or simply bask in the beauty of nature that surrounds you.

To ensure your convenience, the penthouse comes with two secure private parking spots, generous storage, and a dedicated laundry room.

Contact us today to arrange a viewing and secure your place in this unparalleled coastal haven.

Tamara Markovic +64 28 436 2354

Karim Garcia +64 21 346 012

nzsothebysrealty.com/nla00251

Price: $2,849,000

TAKAPUNA | 13B O’NEILLS AVENUE Last One Left | New Nautica Home

Designed with euphoric living in mind this brand new home has just been complete. Excellent architectural design, quality craftsmanship by House of Nautica and exceptional interior design by Julia Holman have created this awe inspiring property in one of North Shore’s finest Avenues. Set on a freehold title this home offers lovely open plan kitchen, living and dining areas on the ground floor which flow seamlessly to alfresco outdoor entertaining areas complete with louvre roof. The kitchen offers a large island, scullery area, quality appliances and plenty of storage. Superb attention to detail with purposebuilt, bespoke fittings and finishes found inside and out, engineered American oak timber flooring, central air conditioning system and generous stud height throughout. Four generous bedrooms plus study, two stylishly tiled bathrooms (inc ensuites) plus guest wc. Double Garage with internal access.

Est.1984

ROBERT MILNE 022 011 24 94

RobertMilne@premium.co.nz

TAKAPUNA 916 6000

RICHARD MILNE 021 983 533

themilnes@premium.co.nz

TAKAPUNA 916 6000 premium.co.nz /80431

VIEW | PLEASE CALL FOR VIEWING TIMES

Panoramic views, five-car garaging

prime family package! 12 EASTCLIFFE ROAD, CASTOR BAY

Rarely do we get the opportunity to market such a unique property in a top location. This enviable package offers panoramic sea views from its prime elevated position. The low maintenance characteristics, all-day sun and excellent separation are perfect for family living or an executive couple.

The property was completely rebuilt in 2016 with new cladding, new roof, new double-glazed joinery, and beautiful reworked interiors. It now offers over 300m² of expansive living with the unique feature of having five-car garaging, seldom if ever found in this location.

First-floor living offers a superb open plan DBJ-designed kitchen with a butler's pantry, informal dining and living, opening out to an expansive louvre-tech covered deck with panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf. A dividing wall with a double-sided fireplace separates the informal living with a larger formal dining room ideal for family gatherings. A second living space, which can be closed off, could be used as a formal living

or separate tv room. An additional open space could be utilised as an office/kids play room.

The master is spectacular with an ensuite, walk-in robe, ducted air conditioning, and superb views. A second double room plus a full bathroom, guest toilet and laundry complete this floor.

Downstairs there are a further two double bedrooms, another full bathroom, a large separate media room with air conditioning and a semi-kitchenette/bar area and an internal access double garage with an abundance of storage and wine cellar.

Overall, a brilliant home in a superb location offering three to four living spaces and unique five-car garaging, perfect for teenage families looking for space and separation.

www.precision.net.nz/ID #558134

Impeccably maintained private lake frontage 47 SYLVAN PARK AVENUE, MILFORD

Certain to impress even the most discerning of buyers and on the market for the first time in more than 40 years is this impeccable lakefront property designed by architect Peter Barry-Martin. Situated just off the Golden Mile, the property offers a coveted lakefront position on a full private 842m2 site. This cherished family home enjoys privacy, light, lake views from almost every room and remarkably close direct lake access. The house is well positioned for the sun with expansive northwest-facing living ensuring a constant light-filled living experience, sheltered from Auckland’s prevailing easterly and south westerly winds. Unique for this location is level access to the home from the private ROW. This allows the owners to live entirely on one level if they choose. Stepping inside a generous entry foyer with 360-degree clerestory windows evokes a feeling of Frank Lloyd Wright. It has a character and warmth seldom found with new build homes of today. Built just before the 1970s, the property has been successively modernised with major upgrades that include the replacement of original cedar cladding with new cedar in 2010, new roof and a fully ducted heating system converted to a high-capacity reverse cycle air conditioning serving both levels.

Four double bedrooms and three bathrooms include a master with superb lake views and ensuite. The modern galley kitchen connects to open plan dining and lounge spaces, flowing to generous decking fronting the lake and overlooking its own 10-metre tile-floored concrete swimming pool. Leading to the private outdoor living space to the north is a second sitting/family area that is bathed in natural sunlight.

On the lower floor are two bedrooms and a large downstairs living area also with lake views and offering entertaining separation plus a separate office and storage room.

A three-car internal access garage, external access storage shed for tools and a boat shelter for water toys complete this highly desirable home.

This cleverly designed property will appeal to professional couples and families of all ages who will appreciate this special lake edge location.

Welcome to paradise – phone now.

www.precision.net.nz/ID #558757

Andrew specialises in marketing homes on the Golden Mile between Milford and Takapuna and around the waterfront. In the last six 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. Whilst he is renowned for dealing with higher value properties, Andrew has also carved a niche within 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.