Channel Magazine August 2023

Accelerating success.

For Lease - 61 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, Auckland

Star on Constellation

Various Options Available

Looking for professional office space in the popular Constellation Drive area? Various office tenancy options available with generous carparking.

Very efficient layouts and lift in the building, plus cafe on site and next to the Northern Busway park and ride. Easy access to East Coast Bays, motorways North, CBD and Western. These are exceptional office opportunities.

Features include:

• Tenancies from 200 sqm

• High quality office space

• Generous carparking

• Building security

For any commercial property leasing/sales enquiries within Auckland North Shore area, please contact property expert Janet Marshall 021 684 775 janet.marshall@colliers.com.

Janet Marshall 021 684 775 janet.marshall@colliers.com

colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67024723

Excellent location - close to public transport and motorway access

Generous carparking

Tenancies from 200 sqm

Cafe on site

colliers.co.nz

Gardening with pots - it's as easy as 1-2-3

City Botanics - potty about pots and the power of three

We love landscaping with pots. Whether you have a tiny balcony, poolside patio or a sweeping backyard, adding pots and plants will instantly give form, structure and interest to your outdoor space. You can use them to create zones, add greenery or blooms, grow veggies, or hide unsightly features. They are a landscape designer's best friend!

If you want to joosh up your outdoor space with pots and plants, our top design tip is always to remember the 'rule of threes'; a design concept so easy to use you almost can't go wrong! Here's what we mean, with some images to illustrate.

Three pots: For maximum impact, we suggest selecting three pots of the same colour or material in the same style and shape.

Three colours: Choose three plant colours or shades that complement one another. The colour doesn't have to be in flower form either; foliage can be just as colourful, and remember, green is a colour too!

Three textures: If you prefer the look of the more reserved, all-green colour palette, consider mixing three different textures to make it more engaging. Mix spikey grasses, largeleafed shrubs, and softer mounding perennials to create visual interest.

Three words: 'thriller, filler, spiller': Keeping this handy phrase in mind will help you to create harmony and balance in your larger containers (60cm+ in diameter). The 'thriller' is the centrepiece, usually a tree or taller shrub that grabs attention. The 'filler' fills the pot and covers the soil. The 'spiller' is a trailing plant that spills over the edges of the pot to create balance with the thriller.

Would you like help choosing the best pots and plants for your space? Visit one of our monthly pop-up studios at our warehouse in Hobsonville. Bring some photos, measurements and the aspect of your space, and one of our design experts will help you choose the most appropriate pots and plants. Easy as!

Our next events are Saturday 19 August and Saturday 16 September. Visit our website events page for more details at citybotanics.co.nz/events

City Botanics specialises in small urban gardens, courtyards, patios and balconies. If you are thinking about transforming your small outdoor space, contact Martin for a free consultation on 027 215 7884, citybotanics.co.nz

Small Spaces Big Gardens

Exceptional new seaward side home

1A TIRI ROAD, TAKAPUNA

This stunning new home was completed in 2023 and designed by MDS. It offers a floor area of approximately 388m2 on a 618m2 freehold site. Situated on sought-after Tiri Road, located just off the renowned 'Golden Mile' it enjoys a sunny northerly aspect and sea views. The ground level offers formal and informal living, both offering seamless outdoor flow to decking with Louvre-Tech roof, perfect for family living and entertaining. Both living rooms feature gas fireplaces and there is ducted heating and cooling throughout the home. Those who enjoy cooking will appreciate the well-equipped kitchen, which includes an integrated fridge/freezer, full-height wine fridge, and Miele appliances. A scullery off the kitchen has a gas hob and a second fridge. A downstairs bedroom with ensuite is ideal for guests or extended family, with guest toilet, wine cellar/storage room or possibly a study. A laundry and internal access double garage with built-in cabinetry complete the lower level.

The high stud throughout gives it a spacious and luxurious feel and an impressive double-height void hallway leads you upstairs to a large master suite, a walk-in robe with built-in cabinetry and an enormous ensuite. There are also two further bedrooms and either a third living space or a fifth bedroom, bathroom, and study. A fully fenced flat site with security gates completes the property.

Enjoy everything this superb beachside lifestyle has to offer, with Milford beach at the end of the street, Milford and Takapuna shops and local eateries within an easy walk, zoned for top schools with easy access to the motorway and public transport links.

Exuding refined luxury, this unique property presents an extraordinary opportunity to purchase a brand-new large-family home in this highly sought-after location.

Expressions of Interest close 16 August 2023 (unless sold prior) www.precision.net.nz/ID #559817

Family living in Takapuna's finest avenue

3

MINNEHAHA AVENUE, TAKAPUNA

Beautiful location, home and lifestyle await. Located in Takapuna's most prestigious avenue, number three has been transformed after being fully renovated in 2013. The family-friendly layout is suitable for large families offering five double bedrooms, four bathrooms and three living areas over two levels, both levels with very high ceilings. It also offers a work-from-home office or sixth bedroom (if required) and a basement wine cellar.

Main living is on the ground floor dominated by a Poggenpohl kitchen that flows out to a spacious lounge with fire and an expansive dining area. This space is oriented to face north, flowing out to an elevated terrace and then to extensively landscaped fully fenced and gated grounds – some 709sqm of fee simple land. Adjacent to the kitchen is an additional sitting area with a tv perfect for younger children who need to be close to their parents. The ground floor also features two spacious double bedrooms which share a large bathroom (semi-ensuite for both rooms), guest bathroom and Poggenpohl laundry/scullery.

The first-floor features three double bedrooms and a huge lounge which is currently a media room with a projector, plus an additional sitting area – an amazing space. This level flows to a very large deck with a generous seating area which has a northern aspect offering all-day sun. The master has views to Rangitoto and offers a spacious walk-in wardrobe and ensuite. The additional two bedrooms share a large marble bathroom. The home office looks out over the grounds and creates a brilliant workfrom-home space.

The site is 709 m², generous by today's standards and is freehold with options for a pool and even a playground if so desired.

Only a moment's stroll to beautiful Thorne Bay beach and Takapuna's shops and cafes,. Those buyers who are location- and lifestyle-driven and are wanting a large family home with excellent accommodation and a multitude of generous living need to inspect 3 Minnehaha Avenue.

Price By Negotiation

www.precision.net.nz

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.

Golden days incoming

Early one Tuesday morning in late July, I climbed the backstairs of Takapuna’s cinema armed with popcorn and flanked by two of the most fun business owners I’ve ever met. Helen and Shaun Hayward bought the local cinema just before Christmas and could not have foreseen the trials and tribulations that have beset the business since.

Fire and floods, in quick succession, have hugely hampered their efforts to bring people together through their love of the movies. That these community-spirited Forrest Hill residents remain so upbeat is a testament to not only their fortitude, but their irrepressible sense of fun. The didn’t give up and they’re ready to bring more films and fun to the lives of locals. Read their story on page 34.

We’re pleased to draw Shore focus to local success. In this issue, we begin a series of stories on Shore start-ups shaking up their

sectors. Viv Wilson spoke to Christine Young about her home-birthed business bringing colour and cloths to cupboards everywhere, after upsizing her operation from the kitchen table to her new warehouse.

With Father’s Day on the horizon –Sunday 3 September – our monthly Q & A is dedicated to local dads. Aidan chats to a Devonport author on a topic close to his heart, and celebrates Westlake Boys’ recent international event, as well as its upcoming gala event to raise money for its newly launched fund. And I enjoyed an impromptu magic show at the home of a Takapuna couple on a heart-warming mission to keep the magic alive in their family and beyond. Variety is the spice of Channel life!

Enjoy all you can this August.

Heather Barker Vermeer, Editor

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 Junction fundraiser at Regatta Bar and Eatery

The sun was shining and there was a full complement of guests for the annual Shore Junction Fundraising Lunch at Regatta Bar and Eatery held on Wednesday 19 July. The overall result was over $30,000 raised for the community youth innovation hub in Takapuna, dubbed ’two floors of amazing’.

The lunch started with a complimentary glass of Marlborough Mumm, followed a delicious lunch prepared by the Regatta team. An inspiring talk was given by Hugh Ozumba/ MazboQ who is an independent artist and producer and MD of the UNCHAINED XL Production Company. Hugh is a youth mentor and has worked with numerous secondary schools and is Shore Junction's youth music tutor and producer. There was also a performance from a trio of young musicians who have made Shore Junction their musical home.

The event finished with a charity auction called by Shane Cortese, and a raffle draw. Shore Junction is growing and attracting large numbers of young people, with 2648 young people registered. It is a place for young people in our community, where they feel safe and listened to, and where they can meet and are motivated to achieve new things. Visit: shorejunction.nz

Sonia Thursby, Catherine Lamb, Annaliese Hewitt, Sue Stanaway, Lesley Monk

Joanne Van Dongenm, Brooke Batty, Sharon Gibb, Tracey O'Brien, Susan Webley, Sonja Glynn-Stevens

Vicki Caisley, Ingrid Dawson, Jacquie Blyth

Catherine Lamb, Barb McLean, Lucy Naylor, Kristy McAlpine

Louise Pollard, Margaret Tindall, Jenny Casey, Linda Moore

Joan Finlayson, Joan Ord, Erin Marmont, Kate Chivers

Celebrating the talent of our local rangitahi at Golden Screens

The gala opening night and week-long run of 'Golden Screens' in July was an immense success, showcasing the exceptional talent of our local rangitahi. The modern, fast-paced and entertaining musical theatre show was written by Aedan Ward and featured music by Tom Talbot, both current Takapuna Grammar School students, who lead their youth-driven local cast, crew and live band, all aged between 16 and 25. The Rose Centre supported this young group of up-and-coming theatrical creatives, fulfilling its aim to cultivate local, community-driven events, foster creativity and provide platforms of engagement for our local youth.

Friday 18 August, 8.30pm

The Hot & Flustered Shadowcast presents The Rocky Horror Picture Show, performing the cult classic live on stage while the movie plays on-screen behind them. Get dressed up to the movie or the theme, learn the dances, and enjoy this immersive theatrical experience! Tickets include a prop kit for you to fully enjoy the participation!

Thursday 31 August, 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.

THE VIC OPEN MIC NIGHT

Disney’s Haunted Mansion 31 August

The Miracle Club 3 August

Joshua Downs, Sarah Searle, Vanessa, Patrick and Sophia Kelly

Siobhan Yyrak, Toni van Tonder, Melissa Powell

Charlie and Claire Talbot

Moana Gummersall, Chris Foote

Robyn Norwell, Brian and Audrey Leybourne

Mariah Parker, Mia Brodie, Isla Sweetman, Mila White

Audrey Melhuish, Kira Scharrock, David Geyer

PRE-REGISTERED

Clean car fees increased on 1 July but we pre-registered a number of our vehicles to beat the price rises, while stock lasts.

2023 H6 GT Ultra Coupe

2023 Jolion Lux 4 x 2 2023 Jolion Ultra 4 x 2 2023 Jolion Ultra Hybrid 2023 Ora Standard

indicates the limited stock we have left - so get in quick!

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.

Benefitz and Jono Ridler at TBBA, Regatta Bar and Eatery

Benefitz, publishers of Channel Magazine, played host for the monthly Takapuna Beach Business Association (TBBA) get together at Regatta Bar and Eatery in Takapuna on Wednesday 26 July. Benefitz has been a key sponsor of the TBBA for 13-14 years. Amazing long distance swimmer Jono Ridler, who featured on the cover of Channel Mag in May, was the event's guest speaker. There was a capacity crowd of local businesspeople in attendance to hear about Jono’s epic 33-plus hour/99.1km swim from Great Barrier Island to Campbells Bay. Jono was interviewed about his accomplishment by TBBA CEO Terence Harpur. Benefitz celebrates its 35th birthday in August.

Jono Ridler

Jono Ridler, Terence Harpur

Aidan Bennett, Jono Ridler, Terence Harpur

Louise Dwen, Bev McAlpine, Vicki Warr

Sarah, Steven and Delaney Pearson, Blake Douglas

Aidan Bennett, Stuart and Jacqui Wright

Imogen Dashwood, Brendan Doyle, Simon O'Connor, Frances Gibbons Jeremy Bain, Steve Wallace

Flourishing with flair on first anniversary

Flourish Café celebrated its first year anniversary on Tuesday 11 July with a party fit for the occasion. Balloons, a celebratory cake and the most delectable food and coffees were enjoyed by all. Guest speakers included graduate trainees who spoke eloquently about the skills and confidence the Project Employ training programme has provided them, and how they are now embarking on new careers in the hospitality industry. Flourish Café provides a genuine stepping-stone to employment and independence for its trainees, creating life-changing opportunities. With the café serving delicious coffee and mouth watering savouries and cakes, every time you visit Flourish Café you’re

The New Trusts Act –Two Years On

TAMMY MCLEOD Managing Director Trust and asset structuring specialist with over

years legal experience.

•

TUESDAY 29TH AUGUST 2023, 5:30PM – 7:30PM

NORTH HARBOUR LOUNGE, LEVEL ONE, NORTH HARBOUR STADIUM, ALBANY seminar. Scan to reserve your seat, or go to thenewtrustsact.eventbrite.co.nz

Sarah Dann-Hoare, Ed Collett

Barbara Morgan, Marilyn Glover, Geoff Pownall

Holly Schurink, Chynel James, Phillip Bell, Andrew Hill

Trent Walker, Paras Wadhwa, Mat Lindsay, Kris Sonderer Andrew Hill, Terence Harpur

Brad Olsen brings brilliance to Business Excellence Network breakfast

Business leaders from across the North Harbour region converged at Regatta Bar and Eatery on Tuesday 25 July to hear from economic expert Brad Olsen, Chief Executive and Principal Economist at Infometrics, and one of New Zealand’s leading economic commentators across TV, radio, and print media. Olsen shared an array of economic tips while guests enjoyed breakfast. Over 100 people attended the ‘BEN’ breakfast which was hosted by the North Harbour Club and sponsored by Schnauer and Co, Westpac, BDO, Continental Cars BMW and Regatta. Prominent business people made the most of the networking opportunity with a number of attendees registering their interest to become members of the club.

NORTH HARBOUR CLUB MEMBERSHIP NORTH HARBOUR CLUB MEMBERSHIP

REWARDING EXCELLENCE SINCE 1995

Members enjoy networking opportunities, outstanding events, and giving back to the North Harbour community. Over $3 million has been awarded to local youth demonstrating EXCELLENCE in their field through the annual AIMES Awards programme.

The Club also recognises region leaders at the Business Hall of Fame, who have achieved EXCELLENCE and given back tremendously to the local community.

There is no other Club like this that provides great member engagement opportunities via a raft of events, with the purpose of the Club to foster networking of its members, support and reward excellence with youth, and to reward those who have achieved outstanding things in business and the community.

Keen to learn more about membership? Visit northharbourclub.co.nz

- Mike Atkinson, Director at Bellingham Wallace

Brad Olsen

Andrew Beagley, Scott Wendt, Scott Garrett, Hamish Maude, Philip Buys

Mike Atkinson, Brad Olsen, Ian Watson, Ali Dymond

Erin Marmont, Ali Dymond, Alistair Skelton, Brad Olsen, Mike Atkinson, Andy Ruzich, Jo-Anne Thomas, Andrew Hill

Liz and Paul Blackwell,Warrick Gibbs

Michael Hall, Mark Fisher

Jackie Li, Ana Aksiuta, Jimmy Sun, Anna Robinson

Unique opportunity for North Harbour Club membership

Are you familiar with the North Harbour Club?

You may be surprised to learn that it’s not connected to rugby, or any sport, but it has supported a lot of the greatest North Harbour-based sportspeople since 1995: Lydia Ko, Eliza McCartney, Michael Brake, Zoe Hobbs, Jacko Gill, to name a few…

The club is made up of prominent North Harbour businesspeople who seek to give back to the community while enjoying the outstanding events and networking opportunities available through the club.

With over 230 members currently, the club aims to expand on this to further support the youth of the North Harbour region demonstrating excellence in the fields of art, innovation (science and technology), music, education, sport, and service to the community, through the annual AIMES Awards programme.

Mike Atkinson, Director at Bellingham Wallace and Club President, has hugely benefitted from his involvement with the club.

“For me personally, being a member of the North Harbour Club allows me the privilege first and foremost to support the very talented youth in the North Harbour region to achieve excellence. It's hugely rewarding, humbling and exciting to be present at the award ceremonies that the club runs to see the quality of our future leaders, and indeed the outstanding achievements from our more experienced award winners via the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame.

“Professionally, the North Harbour Club has given me access to the who’s who of the North Harbour region and enabled me to lift my profile with like-minded people who unashamedly support and reward excellence,” says Atkinson.

The club provides a unique offering to its membership with no other club in the country like it.

“No other club provides great member engagement opportunities via a raft of events, with the purpose of the club to foster networking of its members, support and reward excellence in youth and those who have achieved outstanding things in business and the community via the Business Hall of Fame. The club can provide as much or as little as you want. However the more you put in, the more you will get back,” he said.

Corporate membership opportunities have benefitted many businesses throughout the North Harbour region. An array of outstanding club events are held throughout the year with members enjoying exclusive benefits.

“For Bellingham Wallace, the corporate membership has enabled us to host clients and other key contacts at quality events. Our guests always leave the events awestruck by what the North Harbour Club does. Our guests get the opportunity to hear from interesting and inspirational speakers, while enjoying a wonderful meal and a drink or two. Our association with the North Harbour Club is seen by our clients and our staff as an extremely positive and valuable association.”

Keen to learn more about becoming a member?

Visit the North Harbour Club website at northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz to find out more.

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

Over-the-counter hearing aids - what are they and are they right for you?

Until recently, a ‘hearing aid’ was an FDA-approved medical device sold and programmed by an audiologist with requirements for an in-office evaluation, customised fitting and mandatory trial period. These devices passed rigorous safety and reliability standards, often sold with a service package including 12-48 months' manufacturer warranties as well as inoffice fitting, verification and follow-up appointments.

In October 2022, the FDA created a category called 'OTC hearing aids' which are regulated medical devices that can be purchased 'over-thecounter' without a hearing exam, prescription or appointment with an audiologist. Some big name players like Sony and Bose are jumping into the market, in addition to smaller companies which previously sold their devices as PSAPs (personal sound amplification devices).

Could an OTC hearing aid be right for you?

OTC hearing aids are intended for age 18 plus, people with perceived mild to moderate loss, are not custom fitted, will not pick up medical issues or asymmetry in hearing, may or may not be sold with a trial period, and vary on warranties. But they could be a good starter device, much like purchasing ‘readers’ from the chemist when you start noticing visual issues.

Sound advice from a qualified, experienced audiologist... If you are new to hearing aids and are starting to notice problems with your hearing, have a proper evaluation at your local audiology clinic.

Studies show people underestimate their own level of hearing loss; hearing deteriorates gradually, making it difficult to self-assess. In a full hearing evaluation, the audiologist will check your ears for wax and medical issues, tell you if you have hearing loss and to what degree, whether there is asymmetry (significant difference in hearing between your ears), and whether hearing aids (custom fitted and/or OTC) are recommended. If you want to research OTC devices from there, at least you’ve got good baseline knowledge and you’ve ruled out wax and/or medical issues. Many audiology clinics carry OTC products, offer free trials or can recommend some good quality OTC brands.

If you would like to know more about options around hearing loss or book in for an appointment, call Teresa Burns Hearing on 09 475 9849.

Call now to book in on 09 475 9849 or email admin@teresaburnshearing.co.nz

Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd, Inside the Health - I Care Medical Centre 215 Wairau Road, Glenfield, North Shore teresaburnshearing.co.nz

North Harbour Club August and September events

NeXt Leaders event with Alexia Hilbertidou of Girl Boss NZ

Thursday 17 August, from 5pm

Hosted by Smales Farm in B:HIVE auditorium

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.)

Described by The NZ Herald as the Headmistress of Gen Z, Alexia is the founder of GirlBoss NZ – New Zealand’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.

BEN Breakfast with Steven Joyce

Tuesday 22 August, 7am

Hosted by Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna

Steven Joyce served as a senior economic minister in the John Key-led National government of New Zealand between 2008 and 2017. Over nine years in cabinet he held over seven portfolios.

He led the Key government’s economic growth programme, the ultrafast broadband rollout, and the country’s largest highway building programme in decades. Steven was also the campaign chief for the National Party for five national elections.

Steven’s book ‘On the Record’ will be released a week prior to this event and will be available for purchase at the breakfast

BEN Breakfast with Kelli Brett

Tuesday 19 September, 7am

Hosted by Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna

Kelli is editor and co-owner of New Zealand’s iconic and much-loved food and wine magazine ‘Cuisine’ and co-director of Slick & Sassy Media. She’s also chair of Aotearoa’s only national and independent restaurant awards ‘The Cuisine Good Food Awards’ and CEO of Women In Food & Drink New Zealand.

Kelli brings to the table a vast knowledge of the hospitality and media industry and a fierce dedication to promoting the evolving New Zealand food culture to the world, with a view to claiming a place for New Zealand as a premium food and drink destination. And boy does she eat at that table a LOT!

To book, visit: northharbourclub.co.nz or email: info@northharbourclub.co.nz

Tuesday 21 November

BEN Breakfast with local America’s Cup yachting legend Ray Davies

Hosted by Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna

Alexia Hilbertidou

Steven Joyce

Kelli Brett

Mike and Virginia

By Kathryn Burnett and Nick Ward – at The

Pumphouse Theatre, 31 August to 10 September

What do you get when you mix two ambitious lecturers in film studies – one specialising in romantic comedy and the other in monster movies? When Harry Met Sally on steroids! Mike and Virginia is a romantic comedy about a romantic comedy, a funny, fast-moving romp from two of New Zealand’s busiest writers. Kathryn Burnett grew up in Devonport and Bayswater. She penned last year’s sold-out comedy hit The Campervan and is an awardwinning screenwriter and playwright who has written for The Brokenwood Mysteries, Under The Vines, My Life is Murder and Fresh Eggs With a writing career spanning more than 25years, she was recently nominated for a New Zealand Adam New Play Award and was a co-winner of Best Script Drama at the 2021 NZTV Awards for her work on The Tender Trap For Mike and Virginia Kathryn joined forces with award-winning screen writer Nick Ward (Stickmen, Second Hand Wedding, Fresh Eggs, Outrageous Fortune, Westside, The Brokenwood Mysteries, Under The Vines, Birds Eye View, Wellington Paranormal) to subvert every romantic comedy convention in the book and create a smart love story with a twist.

Directed by the ever-inventive Simon Prast, Mike and Virginia are played by theatre favourites Andrew Grainger and Laura Hill. Andrew has been a constant on screen and stage in the UK and New Zealand since the 1980s, with an impressive variety of wide ranging credits including The Brokenwood Mysteries, Outrageous Fortune, Billy Elliot The Musical, Anne Boleyn, The Campervan, and the recent NZ Opera production of The Unruly Tourists. Laura is perhaps best known for her role as Toni Thompson on Shortland Street, but her experience covers TV (Go Girls, Nothing Trivial, Westside, The Brokenwood Mysteries) and stage productions around New Zealand, performing at Centrepoint, Fortune, Circa, Court and Auckland Theatre Company.

Three supporting characters in Mike and Virginia are created by Stephen Papps, Jodie Rimmer and Muna Arbon. Stephen has over three decades of experience acting in theatre, television and film (The End of the Golden Weather, The Piano, King Lear and for Tadpole, Heroes). Jodie ‘grew up’ on The PumpHouse stage and is thrilled to be back, as well as working with Kathryn again (The Strip). Muna has been an actor and an art director on various tv productions (Shortland Street, The Brokenwood Mysteries) as well as performing in many different stage roles. The combined talents of this terrific cast makes for a most entertaining show, recommended for those over 16 years as the play contains adult themes.

Mike and Virginia is on stage at the historic PumpHouse Theatre in Takapuna for a strictly limited season, from 31 August to 10 September.

The old adage of “book early to avoid disappointment” applies! Phone 09-489-8360 or visit: pumphouse.co.nz

The combined talents of this terrific cast makes for a most entertaining show…

Andrew Grainger and Laura Hill as Mike and Virginia

Andrew Grainger and Laura Hill with Director Simon Prast at rehearsals

A spotlight on August

This month, The PumpHouse is home to a sublime lineup of events! From new, cutting-edge plays to showcases from local youth talent, our stage is set to come alive with theatrical goodness.

Kicking off the month in style, Rangitoto College Drama Company presents Puffs or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic – a side-splitting comedy by the talented Matt Cox that'll have you in stitches!

We are joined again by Inspired Families Foundation Trust which is bringing live music to the theatre in 何以解忧 唯有唱歌

Pform.nz is back on stage with the The Confidence Project | ERAS - which promises to take the audience on a journey through time (and even space)!

Depot with Amy Saunders

Celebrating creativity in our community

Following an exciting month of Matariki celebrations we continue to celebrate creativity in our community with two new exhibitions, applications are welcome to join our Wayfind Creative sustainable career programme, and we’ve announced the winners of our annual Depot Sound Schools' Songwriting competition. Read on for more details!

Depot Artspace

Material Instinct, 5-26 August Material Instinct explores the intersecting practices of Hulita Koloi, Malaki Peter Lakisoe Aiono, Ana Garcia, Llenyd Price and Ken Khun. This exhibition explores how materiality plays a significant role in our cultural identities; changing how one reads many daily objects in relation to their original function.

For even more youth talent, Albany Senior High School is bringing a Shakespeare classic to the theatre. The Tempest will take you on an exhilarating voyage into an enchanting world of magic and revenge.

The legendary writer and historian David Veart is back by popular demand for our next Creative Talk in the 2023 lineup. A nostalgic glimpse into our childhood as David delves into the intriguing world of toys, revealing that they are not just for play but also serious business. Make sure to secure your free RSVP on our website because this event is too incredible to miss!

We're ending the month with a banger!

Presenting Mike & Virginia – a romantic comedy about a romantic comedy! Get ready to be whisked away on a hilarious, fastpaced adventure crafted by two of New Zealand's most brilliant writers, Kathryn Burnett and Nick Ward. Kathryn penned last year's comedy hit, The Campervan, which was a sold-out sensation at The PumpHouse. Act fast to snag tickets for this brilliant new show!

For more information and to keep the good vibes flowing, head to our website, follow us on Facebook, or stay tuned to our Instagram.

See you at the theatre soon!

Ngā manaakitanga, James Bell

BOOKINGS: 09 489 8360 or pumphouse.co.nz

Ji Ben Ou: Suspended Ink 悬浮油墨, 5-30 August

Ji Ben Ou’s Suspended Ink 悬浮油墨 is a vibrant observation of the natural world at its ripest, drawing from a decades-long practice in Chinese ink and watercolour painting. An established landscape artist, here Ji Ben Ou presents close studies of spring wildlife and rural scenes in this selection of smaller works on paper.

Depot Futures

Wayfind Creative is an exciting programme for creatives who are looking to take control of their careers and create a financially viable, sustainable and deeply rewarding career. Our no-cost programme is in its third year and supports Tāmaki Makauru creatives to build thriving creative careers. Apply today and thrive tomorrow! depot.org.nz/futures

Depot Sound is delighted to announce the winners of our North Shore Schools' Songwriting Competition! We look forward to hearing the songs professionally recorded by our talented in-house studio engineers. Congratulations and thank you to everyone who showcased their songwriting ability by entering!

Intermediate division:

Winner - Sienna Fitzgerald (Northcote Intermediate)

Runner up - Maia Potter (Albany Junior High)

High school division:

Winner - Lily Williams (Hobsonville Point Secondary School)

Runner up - Elias Matheson (Birkenhead College)

Runner up - Caleb Wright (Rangitoto College)

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

A nostalgic glimpse into our childhood as David delves into the intriguing world of toys…

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

Buona Sera Restaurant

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

Cafe Hung Viet

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

Calimero

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

Corellis

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

Devonport Indian Hub - The Asian Eatery

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

Devon on the Wharf

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

Flying Rickshaw

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

Khana on the Shore

Indian cuisine. 161 Victoria Rd. 09 445 1546 /021 689 216. khana.co.nz

Manuka Cafe and Restaurant

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

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

Signal Hill

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

The Kestrel

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

The Patriot (Pub) 14 Victoria Rd, 09 445 3010. thepatriot.co.nz

Vic Road Kitchen 57-59 Victoria Rd. 09 445 9797. vicroadkitchen.co.nz

Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar 53/55 Victoria Road. 09 445 0194 vicroadkitchen.co.nz

Vondel

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

Belmont/Bayswater

Daily Bread

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

Toni's Italian Pizzeria 167 Lake Rd, Belmont. 09 962 6693. tonispizzeria.co.nz

XO Takapuna

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

Smales Farm, Takapuna

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

Shake Out Burgers – 09 489 8223. shakeout.co Soho Thai – 09 972 2711. sohothaikitchen.com

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

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

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

The Grange Bar & Bistro

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

Takapuna

Alforno Italian Restaurant

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

Aubergine Restaurant

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

Botticelli Restaurant & Wine Bar

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

Burger Burger

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

Catch 21 Eatery

Serving exceptional coffee, staple café offerings and fine seafood.

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

Centro Café

447a Lake Rd. 09 200 2277

Dantes Pizza & Casa Pasta

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

El Humero

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

Florrie McGreals Irish Pub 138 Hurstmere Road. 09 486 6330. florriemcgreals.co.nz

Flourish Café

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

Francs Bar & Diner

Main Beach, The Strand. 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. (next to The PumpHouse). 09 487 0009.

french-rendez-vous-caferestaurant.business.site

Nanam

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

Regatta Bar & Eatery

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

Sakebar Nippon

Traditional Japanese (Isakaya style). 32 Anzac Street. 09 486 2249. sakebar.co.nz

Taylors on Hurstmere

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

The Elephant Wrestler

138 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 8030. joylab.co.nz/elephant-wrestler

Tok Tok Kitchen

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

DEVONPORT

DEVONPORT

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

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

Tokyo Bay

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

Winner Winner Takapuna

Fresh dinners or lunches with yummy chicken a focus! 16 Anzac Street. 09 486 0755. winnerwinner.co.nz

Northcote Point

The Engine Room

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

Clarence Rd Eatery

124 Queen Street. 09 480 9600. clarencerdeatery.nz

Northcote Tavern

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

Birkenhead

Abruzzo Ristorante Italiano 13 Birkenhead Ave. 09 418 4202. abruzzi.co.nz

Birkenhead Brewing Company

17 Birkenhead Ave. 09 320 5055. bbc.kiwi

Blitza Pizza

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

Burrito House

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

Chef Rasa Sayang

Malaysian food. 25 Mokoia Road. 09 419 9788

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

French Rendez-Vous

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

Birkenhead

DIT

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

Fika With Me

Cosy café serving funky, flavourful Findianinspired food.

5 Birkenhead Avenue. 09 418 5508. @fikawithme

Jose's Cantina

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

Moxie Restaurant

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

Mulan Malaysian Restaurant

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

Primerose Thai Cuisine

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

Real Burger

30 Birkenhead Ave. 021 085 95485. realburger.site

Tasty Tiny Thai Restaurant

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

Thai Yum Food Hut

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

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

TAKAPUNA

Centro

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

The Good Home

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

Milford

Anokha Indian Restaurant

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

Bunty's Burgers

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

89 Kitchener Rd. 09 486 5711

Cave À Vin

146 Kitchener Rd. caveavin.co.nz

La Mexicana

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

Monthien Thai Restaurant

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

Musashi Japanese Cuisine Milford 212 Kitchener Rd. 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 Rd. pymsofmilford.com

Stanley Avenue

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

Talay Thai Restaurant

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

The Hub Milford Bar & Grill

145 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 4480. thehubmilford.nz

TAKAPUNA

Catch 21 Eatery

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

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

Shop 8/33 Hurstmere Road

09 484 0005

catch21.co.nz/menu

Taylors on Hurstmere

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!

$85 per bottle between 5-7pm daily

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

168 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna

taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com

taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz

09 489 9510

Licenced Eatery

Tokki

Modern Korean restaurant. 87 Kitchener Rd.

09 488 0888 tokki.co.nz

The Milford Cafe, Bar & Restaurant

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

East Coast Bays

21 Days Bar & Brasserie

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

El Greco Greek and Italian Eatery

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

Montrose Cafe, Bistro & Bar

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

Paper Moon

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

Ristorante La Spiaggia

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

Shore Wide

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

MILFORD

PYM's of Milford

We look forward to welcoming you to our fun local venue, with delicious food and drink options, a fabulous music selection and a warm and friendly ambiance. Join our email list to keep up to date with all of our upcoming events. Pym's is also available for private and semi-private events. We look forward to seeing you here soon.

154 Kitchener Road Milford

Wednesday - Sunday from 4pm 021 413 850 / 021 446 628 drink@pymsofmilford.com pymsofmilford.com/

MILFORD

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

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

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 overseas?

Pack & Send Takapuna is your 'one stop shop' for all your international packaging and freight needs. When you need to send overseas to any country you can rely on Pack & Send's experience 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, from sending a sensitive document to difficult fragile and valuable items. "Many of the items we have dealt with are considered too difficult for general freight," says Jeremy.

Sending overseas is complex and Pack & Send makes it easy. “We prepare all the items for sending, make inventory lists and prepare customs documentation,” says Jane.

Many of these items are valuable, so Pack & Send customers can use its Freight Plus Warranty to 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 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.”

Not only does Pack & Send export items, they arrange for the importation of goods and sensitive documents too. They have outlets in Australia and UK that can even assist with packing.

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; Pack & Send sends anything, anywhere and take care of the hassles.

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.

Authorised by Simon Watts, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

They have outlets in Australia and UK that can even assist with packing.

By Simon Watts, North Shore MP

New medical school will deliver more doctors

We all know we don't have enough doctors in New Zealand, so I'm glad that Chris Luxon and Dr Shane Reti have announced a new medical school at the University of Waikato will happen if there is a change in government after October.

This is excellent news for the Waikato and New Zealand, including here on the North Shore, with more doctors for our communities. I have been fortunate to have input into the health workforce policy by applying my real-world experience working within the public health system and as a registered paramedic.

I am frustrated seeing sick and injured New Zealanders wait for hours in emergency departments, wait weeks to see a GP and spend months on surgical wait lists.

New Zealand needs to train more doctors to meet the demands of our growing and ageing population or to replace our retiring health workforce. We need more doctors here in Auckland, and throughout New Zealand, and this is something that should not be a surprise, so one wonders why this hasn't occurred to date.

By Tim Edmonds, CEO, Well Foundation

Young people on the Shore a STEP ahead with specialist mental health programme in schools

Youth mental health challenges are at an alltime high, with need having skyrocketed in New Zealand in the past decade, but thanks to the generosity of community donations, an evidence-based youth mental health pilot in participating North Shore intermediate schools is having a positive impact.

STEPS-A (Skills Training for Emotional Problem Solving for Adolescents) is a social emotional learning curriculum effective in decreasing life-threatening behaviours in adolescents through developing skills in distress tolerance, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and mindfulness. STEPS-A was initiated in response to Child Youth and Family Mental Health Services seeing an increase in referrals, and schools reporting an overwhelming number of students needing support.

Early intervention at a community level is critical to ensuring young people are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to improve their mental wellbeing. The STEPS-A programme is co-delivered by teachers and clinicians from the hospital’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health team, helping intermediate teachers to up-skill and gain confidence in the techniques being taught. This apprenticeship approach means schools can run the programme independently in future years with background support from the specialist mental health team.

On top of the new Waikato medical school, which will train 120 new doctors, the number of medical school placements at Auckland and Otago will also increase by 50 from 2025. Together, this will see an additional 220 extra doctors graduating a year by 2030, compared to just 50 more under the current government's plan.

The new medical school will have clinical training alliances with other universities and medical facilities around regional New Zealand. This model will deliver more doctors committed to serving our growing cities, regions, and provinces.

Increasing home-grown doctors is vital to delivering the public services that New Zealanders deserve, and this is an essential and long-term investment. A responsible government plans for the future, which is what a future National government I am part of representing our community will do.

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

Northcote Intermediate, a school in the initial pilot group, has reported positive outcomes for students, with their special education needs coordinator Zane Cooper highlighting how the programme is making a significant difference by giving young people proactive skills to help them cope with everything they are facing as young teens. The school can now provide intensive support for up to 15 students over 30 weeks, rather than just referring a small number of students to services outside of school.

An additional $53,000 is required to roll out the programme to more Shore schools in early 2024. Anyone interested in supporting/ sponsoring this programme at any level can get in touch at tim@wellfoundation.org.nz or donate online via wellfoundation.org.nz

Special thanks to The Trusts, Henderson Rotary and the Rotary Club of Downtown Auckland for their support of the STEPS-A pilot programme. Visit wellfoundation.org.nz to find out more.

Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitakere Hospitals and community health services across North and West Auckland.

Well Foundation

09 447 0138

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

I am frustrated seeing sick and injured New Zealanders wait for hours in emergency departments, wait weeks to see a GP and spend months on surgical wait lists.

You can still beach it in winter in Takapuna!

You think the beach is just for summer? Nah! We know you can have a wicked time on the beach on a crisp winter’s day – you just need a few more layers of clothing and an adventurous spirit. So grab your mates and whānau, rug up and hit beautiful Takapuna Beach for some winter fun.

Get physical

Get the blood pumping and ignite your endorphins with some energetic exercise. Rally a team for a game of beach volleyball, soccer, and the timeless beach favourite, frisbee. Lace up and go for a run along the shoreline – it’s even better without the crowds. Alternatively, indulge in a more serene tempo with beach yoga or the graceful movements of tai chi. Seize the outdoors, embrace winter fitness, and hit the sand.

Get wet

Come on, it’s not even that cold! They make wetsuits for a reason, and winter in Takapuna brings excellent opportunities for adrenaline enthusiasts to take to the water and ride the waves. Grab your paddle boards, windsurfers and water toys for some ocean adventure. A sunny winter’s day along the coast is absolutely spectacular.

Go beachcombing

A leisurely walk along the beach does wonders for the soul. Breathe in the fresh air, and scour the sand for unique and beautiful shells

that make great decorations. Make it into a game for the kids by searching for specific shells or sea glass types.

Then wander down to the lava forest at the north end of Takapuna Beach and check out the volcanic rock pools, where you’ll find heaps of fascinating fossils and sea creatures.

Just chill

There’s literally never a better time to get some quiet enjoyment of Takapuna beach.

Plonk yourself in the sun and catch up on your reading list.

Plus, kids don’t care what time of year it is – if you’ve got the little ones with you, they can let their creativity shine with some relaxed sandcastle building and sand art.

And sometimes there’s nothing better than doing nothing –just being still and soaking up the picturesque views of Rangitoto Island.

Enjoy the views

If you’re one of those people that just must be inside, warm and dry, hey, we get it. This is still one of the best urban centres in the country for enjoying a coastal view.

Head down to one of the local cafés and grab a hot drink and a tasty sweet treat to round off a fabulous day on the North Shore.

We recommend Regatta Bar & Eatery, Franc’s Bar & Diner, and of course Takapuna Beach Cafe.

For more things to see, do and entertain in Takapuna – no matter the weather or temperature – check out our activities and top 10 things to do in Takapuna pages online!

New businesses – open now in Takapuna!

Domo Bakery

We’re excited to welcome Domo Bakery to Takapuna! The entire team behind Domo is passionate about croissants! They love what they do and their signature flavours include matcha, lemon and meringue and yuzu and cream cheese. We thoroughly recommend trying their brilliant, unique ‘cube’ croissant, filled with a delicious filling, you won’t be disappointed. Domo Bakery needs to be your next stop for that daily coffee and sweet fix – but get in quick, before they sell out!

90 Hurstmere Road

Puriri Lane @ Addenbrooke

At the other end of Hurstmere, Puriri Lane @ Addenbrooke has just opened – your new go-to for amazing botanicalthemed gifts, an array of plants for your garden, through to the exquisite Jane Hogben pottery. The team at Puriri Lane are thrilled to be a part of the Takapuna community and look forward to welcoming you in-store soon!

9 Hurstmere Road

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… PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

Takapuna’s cosy cafés and fireside hangouts

There’s no excuse for hunkering at home this winter! Nothing beats settling into a warm and cosy café or pub on a winter’s day, indulging in tasty kai, delicious beverages, and fantastic company. With some of Auckland’s best bars and eateries, here’s our guide to inviting Takapuna hangouts to visit this winter.

Joe’s Eatery

The first stop is Joe’s Eatery – a snug haven in the heart of Takapuna, with rustic décor and a relaxed vibe that instantly makes you feel at home.

Along with scrumptious food, Joe’s provides entertainment too. Get in on fun, informal events like gin night, when the tantalising taste of botanicals takes centre stage; and wine night, when you’ll discover new favourite vino varieties. Order a signature shared platter, relax and enjoy a fun evening with old friends and new ones.

Catch 21 Eatery

Despite the fresh, nautical, seaside décor, Catch 21 Eatery provides a warm and cosy atmosphere during these cooler days, thanks to their new café curtains – they keep the cold wind and rain out, the warm in, and the cosy vibes happening all day!

From delicious coffees and drinks, to their comforting cabinet food and hearty menu, there are beverages and food at Catch 21 to warm you up from the inside out! Try their unique roti or one of the sweet pastries from the cabinet with your beverage of choice – or go all out and tackle the full menu. Catch 21's signature dishes include a heartwarming and tantalising seafood chowder, incredible open lobster burger, a hearty whole prawn fettucine pasta, or their delicious 21 Days steak, eggs and chips.

Botticelli

Botticelli on Anzac St is an Italian institution in Takapuna. Serving up delicious, classic Italian dishes and handmade pasta to locals and loyal customers since 1994. Decorated like an Italian living room, serving food better than

an Italian nonna, a beautiful selection of Italian wines and live music on a weekly basis – what more could you need from a cosy winter night out in Takapuna?

No matter if you’re a pizza, a pasta or a filet mignon fan – Botticelli will be the crowd pleaser the family needs, the comforting and romantic date night spot, or the easy and intimate catch up spot with friends.

Florrie McGreal’s Irish Pub

Stepping into Florrie McGreal’s Irish Pub, you’re greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere with a touch of Celtic charm. The interior has a homely feel, featuring rich wooden furnishings, cosy seating areas, classic Irish memorabilia, and a well-stocked bar that includes a variety of Irish whiskeys and beers. There’s a lovely courtyard with comfortable seating, ambient lighting and outdoor heaters – the perfect spot to socialise under the stars at night. And if you’re peckish, the menu offers a great range of hot ‘n’ hearty Irishinspired dishes and pub favourites.

Takapuna Bar

When it’s chilly outside, there’s nothing better than unwinding by a toasty-warm fire. At local favourite, Takapuna Bar, you can relax on the comfy couches, grab some bar snacks, enjoy a quiet fireside chat, or get your own patriotic fire going with sports on the big screen. The natural timbers, brick wall interior and ambient lighting all add to the warm atmosphere of Takapuna Bar.

There are SO many more warm and cosy places to spend your time in Takapuna, so if you need more options, don’t forget to check out our full directory of places to eat and drink, shop, or for things to do in Takapuna on our website: ilovetakapuna.co.nz!

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

From delicious coffees and drinks, to their comforting cabinet food and hearty menu, there are beverages and food at Catch 21 to warm you up from the inside out!

the

#supportlocal

FITZGERALD TAYLOR

COSI FAN TUTTE

For the hopeful romantic Magnolia Pearl's Floral Francie Blouse is a ray of sunshine in your wardrobe.

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

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

FIESTA BALLOONS

Celebrate your dad's love and devotion with a thoughtful surprise. Send him a memorable gift hamper this Father's Day, hand-picked with love, just for him and make this day unforgettable for the superhero who means the world to us!

#FathersDayGiftIdeas

0800-FIESTA

info@fiestadesign.co.nz

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

SPERO CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR

Spring arrivals from Sills & Co

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

facebook @FiestaDesignNZ instagram @fiestaballoonsnz

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

RESENE COLORSHOP

Blue for you! Is it any wonder that blue is consistently picked as a favourite colour? The new Resene Only Blue Wallpaper Collection is for all those blue lovers out there who need a little something to dress up their walls. Choose from a range of fresh designs and plain textures. View the full collection at your local Resene ColorShop.

1 Auburn St, Takapuna 09 489 1540

2 Tawa Drive, Albany 09 414 6500

8 Croftfield Lane, Wairau Park 09 444 4387

YARNTONS

Spoil Dad this Father's Day with a pair of RM Williams boots.

18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 418 4011

69 Victoria Road, Devonport 09 445 3479 yarntons.co.nz

TOYWORLD - GLENFIELD MALL

Let your Barbie hop in and zoom around Barbie Land in this pink convertible Corvette straight out of The Barbie Movie. Available now at Toyworld Glenfield along with the full Barbie Movie collection. $189.00 Glenfield Mall, 09 440 9998 toyworld.co.nz

CITY HALL

Friend of Audrey delivering premium winter staples with their luxe range of knitwear and the ultimate oversized trench.

406 Lake Rd, Takapuna 09 394 2954 hello@cityhall.store facebook instagram @cityhall.store cityhall.store

CRAVEHOME

Here’s a fab gift for Father’s Day – the Scizza! It’s a pizza cutter that perfectly slices any pizza on any surface and can also be used to serve. Scizza has a clever spatula base that slides under your pizza so the glades don’t scratch your non-stick pans or pizza stones.

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

WALLACE COTTON

Refresh your home for spring with new bed linen, homeware and sleepwear designed for relaxed living, effortless entertaining and beautiful gifting. Inspired by nature, our new collection features nostalgic checks, hand-painted florals and leafy botanicals. Explore our new arrivals in-store at 156 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna with easy parking nearby. 156 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, 09 551 7767 wallacecotton.com

FLORIENNE

Flowers, plants, vessels, vases and lots of ideas in store to adorn your home.

60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz

Our monthly round up of posts from local businesses on IG that we’ve liked and a Q&A with Scott from @dulcie.eatery (aka the perfect place to take dad for a special Father’s Day brekkie!)

Scott Kennedy owns new Devonport eatery, Dulcie, a welcome addition to the local café scene set in a historic 1920s building overlooking the water. Scott started his hospo journey in Wellington while studying at The Backbencher, like any good uni student. He says that he found himself working more than he was going to class. After that, he moved to Melbourne and spent the last 15 years there, where he owned his own bar with a bunch of mates, roasted coffee with a three-time Aussie barista champion, and opened a brewery just as Covid lockdowns were starting. Slowly home was calling, and Scott’s partner was pregnant with their little girl so the family returned to New Zealand. Scott worked for Atomic Coffee Roasters which he said was a great environment where he was treated like family. Scott answers a few questions from Channel Mag about opening a new café and how social media fits in.

Channel Mag: Tell us a little bit about Dulcie and how it came about…

Scott Kennedy: During my time back in New Zealand, I noticed a bit of a gap in the daytime café/eatery market. In Melbourne, cafes are all about table service and the a la carte menu, where lots of New Zealand venues have a huge focus on counter service and cabinet food. My search began to find a site that would do justice to the service and food offering we ware wanting to provide and we most definitely found it here with Dulcie.

Is Instagram a source of inspiration for Dulcie?

Instagram has always been a source of inspiration. The only way you could be inspired in the past was cook books and going to other venues but Instagram has made some of the most exclusive and amazing venues in the world available to you on your couch at home. It’s definitely pushed the level of offering in the industry and has probably caused the massive latte art scene we experience in the coffee world. Which other local businesses/restaurants/cafes do social media well?

I really like what @williamseatery do; it’s simple, straight to the point and show what they do all day every day. I’m very much a minimalist…. @herosandwichhouse was a favourite of mine when I first arrived in Auckland; every post they would do made me want to get in my car and smash down a sando. Hopefully it isn’t RIP and it’s just see you soon with Huri and the crew and we see them back in Auckland slinging tasty sandwiches.

What are your goals for Dulcie this year?

It’s all about the crew this year. I just want to create a great environment for my Dulcie family to grow, learn and enjoy what they do. If they are happy then the customer will be too. Coming into summer, I’d love to open for some afternoon sessions but other than that we just want to keep doing what we do.

Favourite dish on the menu…

I love all the dishes equally like any good parent haha. I’ve been eating a lot of smoked cheddar scones with our bacon butter to start my day. But one of my favourite brunch items is the wild mushrooms on white polenta with a 63 degree egg. It’s so warming and full of umami.

dulcie.co.nz • 33 King Edward Parade, Devonport, Auckland • @dulcie.eater

We’ve been wanting to try Tokki for ages and Father’s Day is the perfect opportunity to book for a delicious modern Korean meal.

@tokki_nz

Got a beer lover in the family? Look no further than Deep Creek in Browns Bay. They’ve got some new releases that look like they’d make the perfect present this Father’s Day.

@deepcreekbrewingco

Much-loved Birkenhead café Fika offers gift vouchers. We think they’d make a great gift for the café lover in your life.

@fika_with_me

THENEWX5

New dawn for cinema in Takapuna

By Heather Barker Vermeer

If you’ve seen the 2011 film, We Bought a Zoo, you’ll understand how a life-changing decision to take on an unusual project as a family can have its challenges. You’ll also have an insight into the lives of Helen and Shaun Hayward and their two children over the past eight months.

This local family purchased a cinema. And the challenges they have faced since signing on the dotted line could make a movie script and would have prompted most people to pull the pin on the project. Not the Haywards. They’re the new owners of Takapuna’s only cinema and they’re in it for the long haul. They’re in it for the community and, despite unforeseeable setbacks, the family is in it for the fun.

What a long haul this project has already proven to be for these long-standing Forrest Hill residents. Helen and Shaun Hayward purchased the former Monterey Cinema in on December 21, 2022. On New Year’s Eve, an electrical fire ripped through the side of the building.

“We were at home with friends, when we got a call from a staff member saying the cinema was on fire,” explains Helen, showing video footage of the exterior of the third floor visibly ablaze. “It burned through the guttering on the exterior and a downpipe inside the building.”

With heavy rain forecast, a local plumber came to their aid, completing the remedial work needed to secure the piping. They managed to open for just nine days before disaster struck again.

“We came down to the cinema on the ninth of January, the morning after the flooding that hit Auckland. As we opened the doors, a river flowed out. Water was pouring down the walls and down the stairs, the light fittings were like showerheads! I’m not exaggerating when I say it was like a river; it really was. It was like nothing I’ve ever seen. We stood there with mouths wide open,” says Helen. “All I could think to say was, ‘Wow, well we’re not going to be opening today’!”

The doors have remained closed since.

What we wanted to do, on the back of the Covid pandemic, was to help reignite the community and bring people together, through their love of the movies.

Work in progress to transform Takapuna's cinema.

Shaun and Helen Hayward

The humour that the Haywards managed to muster that morning is still on display, eight months on. But unsurprisingly, it hasn’t always been possible to rally.

“There have been a few sleepless nights because we have had to fight for the future of this cinema,” says Helen. “There was a line drawn in the sand and we kept going.

“I was insistent on keeping the staff we had inherited. We have some awesome staff, and they are priceless to a business. I didn’t want these people losing their jobs. Our duty manager really went the extra mile throughout, for example. We’re so grateful for all the support we’ve had.”

They rolled up their sleeves and got on with the rebuild and saved 20 local jobs. Community calls to action were answered, with gratitude. “I put a call out on Facebook, and we got about 40 people turning up to help. It was quite overwhelming,” says Helen, emotion evident.

Choosing to focus on the silver linings life’s challenges can bring, Helen reflects, “It’s given us the opportunity to rebrand and redecorate the place. These are things we would have done down the line, but as it is, we’re going to reopen a cinema with a new name and a new look.

“What we wanted to do, on the back of the Covid pandemic, was to help reignite the community and bring people together, through their love of the movies. We wanted to help get people out and about again, enjoying life and having fun!”

The Haywards plan on showing all the blockbuster movies you’d expect from a cinema, but also promote wide community use of the venue for special interest screenings, family and friends’ fundraising events, product launches, corporate functions and more. They have already been thinking about the local secondary schools group screenings for curriculum subjects, arts and sporting interests, as well as fundraisers. Their daughter Zara attends Takapuna Grammar, as did Shaun's dad, and son Ethan attends Westlake Boys, as did Shaun and his uncle the generation prior.

In a nostalgic full circle, North Shore born and bred Shaun fondly remembers his first trips to the cinema, which he now owns. “I saw my first movies here, as a child,” he shares. “It was known as The Tudor, back in the 1980s, with one large screen. In 1999 it was rebuilt, and the current four screens were installed. It was originally known as Forester’s Hall, back in 1914.”

The couple, who first met in Auckland when Londoner Helen was on her very extended OE, have honoured the cinema’s origins in their company name – Forester’s 1914. The cinema itself will be renamed Takapuna Beachside Cinema.

They want to encourage locals to support local business and wish to work with local hospitality venues to add to the town’s offering, not compete with them.

“We want to encourage people to get out and support their local restaurants, as well as the cinema,” says Shaun. “We’re not going to be competing with them; we’ll stick to the standard cinema fare. Movies should be about popcorn, candy and ice cream!”

They will have a well-stocked bar, however, and are creating a dedicated party room, as well as keeping the cinema lounge area. New décor, colours and ideas – such as movie genre-themed nights – will inject the Haywards’ personality into the venture.

Takapuna Beachside Cinema wil open this spring, with a date to be confirmed, and Helen’s fizzing with ideas. Showing increasingly scary movies throughout the evening on Halloween is one of them. Not a fan of horror herself, though, Helen is more of a The Wizard of Oz woman. She even got married in ruby red slippers and walked down the aisle to Somewhere Over the Rainbow, in a nod to her favourite film. Shaun’s more of a sci-fi man, he says – Bladerunner is his top pick.

Shaun will be familiar to many on the Shore through his volunteer work at Mairangi Bay Surf Lifesaving Club, where he coaches the ‘tadpoles’, a role he took up when their kids were younger. Both he

and Ethan are lifeguards at the club. Shaun has also played rugby for 22 years and played football for Forrest Hill Milford FC. He can now often be seen cycling around the Shore with Ethan and Zara, though admits he can no longer keep up.

As if they didn’t have enough on their plates, the pair also run an Escape Room business in the central city and are guide dog puppy walkers for Blind and Low Vision NZ, having nurtured over 20 specialist hounds over the years.

When the hard graft is over and the doors eventually open, instead of a river running out, the pair hopes excited audiences will be streaming in – instead of streaming films at home. The Haywards are keen to reintroduce the art and experience of the cinema to patrons young and old. With a lift and ramp available, they point out that the venue is accessible to all.

“Ultimately, we bought a cinema, not a renovation project!” Helen exclaims. “Through sheer determination, downright stubbornness, and some wonderful support, we’ve got through. Now, we can start to look forward to opening and sharing our love of the cinema with the Shore.

“If you own a cinema, you’ve got to have fun with it, right? We bought it to have fun. And we look forward to bringing more fun to local people’s lives!”

Ethan, Shaun and Zara Hayward

Colourful concept mopping up more than mess

By Christine Young

With the move in July of her self-described 'accidental business' from its home base to a workroom/warehouse, North Shore entrepreneur Viv Wilson feels her company has come of age. Christine Young talked to Viv about the development of Ecovask, her testament to innovative thinking, clever design and a desire to spread more colour in the world.

Viv celebrated five years in business at the end of July, less than a month after moving into a new warehouse/workroom in Barry’s Point Road. When Channel Magazine visited in mid-July, Viv and coworker Nanette were packing a large order for a retail customer in Wellington – a far cry from Ecovask’s early beginnings.

The concept began on a family trip to Europe, where Viv saw and hankered after cheerfully coloured knitted cotton dishcloths. Despite the 20-Euro price tag, she splashed out, and she was hooked. These simple, bright cloths were worlds away from the 'manky' dishcloths she had previously used.

Thinking there was potential to sell them here at markets, and at the same time teach her children about business, Viv contacted the Danish company selling them in Europe and brought in small quantities. Sports and other family commitments got in the way of regular market appearances, until her son needed to raise $8,500 for a World Challenge trip to Nepal. The family calculated the amount could be reached if he committed to selling at local markets every weekend over the two-year lead-in time to the trip.

Market sales went well; within 18 months they had achieved the fundraising target and her son had learnt a lot about the business of being in business. “But the real benefit,” Viv says now, “was the time spent together with my son.”

The Nepal trip took place in January 2020, and it seemed the dishcloth business might wind up. Viv’s corporate background was mostly in fast-moving consumer goods, and she was ready to transition to a consulting role, working on team building with people in leadership. But, she says, "Covid was the wrong time to start that." So she threw her lockdown time and energy into building a website and began to run the colorful dishcloth business online. Somewhat unexpectedly, she says, “It just went crazy!”

Buying products out of Europe, with issues such as costs of transport and not buying directly from the manufacturer, meant the business was not sustainable in the long-run however.

Viv was reluctant to cast off her corporate mantle and become 'the dishcloth lady', but was then approached by an Indian manufacturer - a move that would allow her to move into wholesale and grow the business. The timing was right. But she wanted to mak sure it on her terms. “When we embarked on the manufacturing journey, we decided we would only work with organic cotton.” (The original product she had been selling came in both standard cotton and organic cotton.) “Yes, the product came at a premium, but it was high quality cotton.”

“I am not an eco-warrior,” she adds, but does have an ethos of doing all she can to improve sustainability.

The move to buying directly from the manufacturer was huge. It involved buying larger quantities, with all relationships having to be built via Zoom meetings, and negotiations took time.

She launched Ecovask (the name comes from Viv’s emphasis on sustainability, plus the Danish word vask for wash) at a gift Ffair in 2021. Last year, she, her husband and Nanette demonstrated and introduced her increased product range at Go Green expos, food shows and other events, while online sales continued to soar. This year, they’ve cut back demo visits to focus on wholesale, as well as direct-to-consumer sales. The two-week-long Auckland Food Show in late July/August this year is a notable exception, however, and preparations for that were well under way when we spoke.

Events, says Viv, whose background also includes shopper behaviour analysis, have been important for getting feedback from customers and understanding trends and needs, and remain so. She has adopted the slogan, 'The best dishcloths ever', the simple explanation for this being that people kept coming back to her at the markets and at events, and buying more for gifts, saying they were 'the best dishcloths ever'.

All ideas, colour palettes and the expansion of the product range are generated by Viv, many inspired by 'amazing conversations' at events. Her original dishcloth has expanded into a kaleidoscope of nine colours and a range of designs. Facecloths, tea towels, hand towels, face mitts, a kids’ wash-cloth have all been added to the range, with reusable make-up removal pads the latest addition. There are more products planned and close to launch.

Alongside Viv’s commitment to organic products as a way to ensure the wellbeing of the land, farmers and workers at every step

Viv Wilson in her workroom

in the chain, she has a personal commitment to giving back to the community. Her support of the Nest Collective, which donates baby and children's essentials to families in need, has developed this year as the business has grown.

Viv’s philosophy for her business is that if she does anything, it must be game-changing, and it must involve long-lasting high-quality products. It's also about solving issues. "You’re not aware of some of those issues until there’s a solution," she says, demonstrating a dishcloth holder that attaches discreetly and magnetically into the kitchen sink. It hides the dishcloth while allowing it to dry between uses. Or the elegant metal and siliconhandled dish scrub that has replaceable heads.

Viv’s aim now is to continue to grow the business, looking at products that tick her sustainable, practical, high-quality boxes, and managing that growth. An outlet shop for seconds at the Barrys Point Road workroom may be one option for the future, she suggests, alongside growth into more retail stores, especially locally. She also plans expansion into the Australian retail market, to take advantage of 'lots of opportunities in the bigger box retailers'.

The move into her new warehouse/workroom, where all product is stored and packed to go out to customers was a big step, Viv says. It's a statement that Ecovask is now a serious player in the homewares market. Viv is now ready to cast off her corporate persona and enjoy the creativity of 'playing outside the sandbox'.

By Stephanie Ray, director at Clean for Good

Embracing winter: Expert tips to combat mould

Dear readers,

As experts in residential cleaning, we take pride in sharing valuable insights to help you maintain a clean home throughout the year. As winter brings rain and humidity, it also ushers in an unwelcome guest: mould. We've noticed a surge in mouldrelated issues in homes, and we want to help you address this concern effectively.

Mould not only mars the appearance of your home but can also pose serious health risks. The spores released by mould can trigger allergies, respiratory issues and exacerbate asthma symptoms. If you find dark spots on windows, bathrooms, or ceilings, along with musty odours, you might be at risk. Our cleaning specialists recommend these expert tips to combat mould:

Baking soda paste: Mix baking soda with water to create a paste. Apply it to affected areas and scrub with a brush. This natural remedy cleans and prevents mould from reappearing.

Tea tree oil spray: Create a solution of tea tree oil and water in a spray bottle. Spritz it on mould-prone areas to inhibit growth and leave a refreshing scent.

Hydrogen peroxide solution: Combine hydrogen peroxide with water and spray it on mould-infested surfaces. Wipe away the mould after 10-15 minutes.

These expert tips, along with regular cleaning and proper ventilation, will help you combat mould effectively and maintain a healthy, mould-free home environment. Embrace winter confidently, armed with expert advice from Clean for Good. Stay tuned for more tips and let's make your home shine!

Ready for A+ top-quality, eco-friendly HOME cleaning? Contact us today at 020 4010 2470 or info@cleanforgood.co.nz. Visit our brand-new office at 17 Clarence Street, Devonport.

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

The ideas, the colour palettes and the expansion of her range of products are all self-generated, many inspired by “amazing conversations” at expos and fairs.

What’s Trending

Barbie and Ken are trending - Check out what Glenfield Mall recommends to create your own Barbie Land.

With a surfboard in tow, he’s having the best day ever in Barbie Land! Celebrating Barbie™ The Movie, this Ken® doll makes a great gift for fans and collectors alike.

$69.00

Trust us when we say Ken would have this in his wardrobe, and you will want it too. A comfy, relaxed fit with a trending drop shoulder design, this t-shirt features it all.

$24.99

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!

Set your bedroom into a tranquil Ken inspired zone with the Delilah Duvet Cover Set. Featuring a playful design with a soft frayed effect adding dimension and texture throughout. Designed in two soft palettes periwinkle or pink, the ultimate duvet cover to suit any decor. Starting at $139.99

This Ken loves his denim and why not make it winter worthy with this Sherpa Lined Denim Jacket from Hallensteins.

$89.99

You can still be Barbie in the winter time and this is a great option, it is available in a variety of beautiful tones. Complete the look with the matching European Pillowcase, which is available for purchase separately. Starting from $179.99

Make your Dream House a reality! Typo x Barbie is the nostalgic collab you never knew you needed. Robe - $79.99

What’s the 411? The 90s are back, baby! Pump the positivity with Lovisa’s perfect range of Barbie pink jewellery. Stock up with their awesome sales happening right now!

90s Matte Pink Squiggle Hoops - $15.00

Surf into Barbie Land with a fragrance that captures the essence of palm trees, sandy shores and fragrant flowers, Malibu Barbie’s very own surfboard fragrance is the perfect addition to any Barbie collection. $16.99

Greetings from Barbie Land! This Barbie® doll cuts a timeless silhouette in a sweet dress modeled after one of her character’s iconic looks in Barbie™ The Movie. $69.99 (Car sold seperately)

NEWLY RENOVATED STORE NOW OPEN AT GLENFIELD MALL

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NEW STORE

NOW OPEN AT GLENFIELD MALL

Casual clothing store for men, women and children. A much loved Glenfield Mall favourite is back, with a new location on level 3, near the food court.

NOW OPEN AT GLENFIELD MALL

Keep an eye out on our socials for all our exciting news.

A life in illusion

Heather Barker Vermeer meets Takapuna’s Mr and Mrs Magic

Magic is in the air along Takapuna’s ‘Golden Mile’. It's thanks to Graham and Gail Bennett; the couple have been sprinkling the stuff on the Shore and beyond for over 50 years.

A rare honour has been recently bestowed on Graham; he is now officially a member of the international Order of Merlin –Excalibur. And he’s handing down his wizardly wisdom to a new generation here on the Shore.

So how does one acquire such a grand title? And what inspires this local grandfather to keep enchanting those around him?

Narrow Neck-born, lifelong Shore resident Graham has dedicated much of his life to the pursuit of magic. He has been assisted by his sequin-loving wife Gail, originally a singer, who played a supporting role in Graham’s tv performances and his Singapore shows. The couple married in Northcote in 1978.

Originally dabbling in advertising, Graham carved out a career in aviation. He began as a flight steward with Air New Zealand, before spending 35 years as an operations executive with Singapore Airlines. It was during his early flying days that he first became mesmerised by magic.

“There was a Kiwi magician, The Great Benyon, who I saw performing in Dargaville, back in 1966. I had never seen anything like it before! I was immediately hooked.”

Graham decided to set up a magic shop on Karangahape Road. “I ran the shop alongside my job as an air steward, so I could fund all the items and magic tricks I sold.” Whoopee cushions, stink bombs, card sets, and a host of trickery delights brought Graham customers from far and wide.

Graham and Gail Bennett

He developed his skills and expanded his knowledge of the world of illusion, with input and inspiration from around the world during his stopovers. It was in Los Angeles that he became aware of something of a mecca for magicians.

“I heard about an organisation called the International Brotherhood of Magicians, based somewhere called The Magic Castle. I went along to their convention and joined the Academy of Magic Arts in 1973. This enabled me to study under some of the best magicians in the world.”

Graham reels off Ali Bongo, Paul Daniels, David Copperfield, and Siegfried and Roy as some of the famous performers he’s rubbed shoulders with. “I worked alongside Billy T on shows here in New Zealand. But my favourite magician was Paul Daniels; I thought he was a great entertainer. I’d have loved to have met Tommy Cooper, but sadly never got to meet him before he passed away.”

Graham became a member of the Brotherhood of Auckland Magicians, the New Zealand Society of Magicians, and joined the International Brotherhood of Magicians – the organisation which last month recognised his 50 years of membership with the Order of Merlin Excelsior award. “It is a great honour,” says the father-oftwo and grandfather-of-three. “I was delighted to receive the letter in the mail, announcing I was to be given this award. As far as I’m aware, I’m the only person in the South Pacific to have received it.” He was unable to attend the IBM convention in Pittsburg, USA, last month to accept his award in person, but was delighted to receive his honorary pin in the post.

This marks a lifetime of learning magic for Graham, and the sleight of hand he has mastered isn’t something everyone is able to learn. “You have to practise, practise, practise,” says Graham. “There are people who have this passion for magic and can pick up the skills much more easily than others. I suppose it’s like anything else; you have to practise hard, and you have to really want to do it to get good at it.”

Winning a tv residency in the 1980s, with 37 episodes on ‘Tracey ‘80’, was proof that Graham was indeed, ‘good at it’. “When you’re performing live, as well as being good at magic, you also have to get very good at ad-libbing too! Especially when you’re working with children and animals. I had to do that, a lot!”

Graham recounts the time when a dove he released decided to deposit more than a little magic on his audience. “I was producing a dove out of a silk handkerchief, and it was supposed to fly to Gail and land on her hand. But instead, it flew over a man who was sitting at a table nearby, eating his steak during the show. Suddenly he had an extra portion of béarnaise sauce he hadn’t ordered! That was the last time we used doves at a catered event,” he laughs.

There have been dicey moments when attempting to saw people in half, with Graham admitting he has had to learn the art of diplomacy and distraction. Gail has been the focus of this illusion more times than she can recall, entering a 16-blade sword cabinet on a regular basis in one of their favourite tricks.

Graham performed widely overseas, namely at Hollywood's Magic Castle, Academy of Magical Arts, and in Asia, the South

Pacific, the UK and Europe. He and Gail have made many lifelong friends as mainstays of the New Zealand and global magicians’ communities. In their later years, the couple have lit up the lives of retirement village residents with their shows here on the Shore.

Graham is proud of the torch the North Shore region is carrying for the future of magic, with its efforts to keep the art alive for future generations. He enjoys handing his skills down to members of the Takapuna-based Shore City Magic Club – the only New Zealand magic club with a dedicated junior section, Graham believes – and to his own grandchildren.

“Our eldest grandchild Orlando is eight and he loves to help out at shows! He has his own top hat with a rabbit in it, and he does his own routine.

“It’s great to see the young ones getting into magic. I’m pleased that there seem to be a lot of children on the Shore who are keen to learn.”

Graham and Gail enjoy sharing their love of magic with their three grandchildren and are pleased to have had the opportunity to share magic with audiences of all ages over the past five decades.

“When people see you performing, their eyes light up,” says Graham. “It’s wonderful to see.”

“That’s the power of magic,” adds Gail. “No matter how old you are, it lights people up. Magic brings everyone together.”

The Shore City Magicians Club was established in 1974, 'to promote the arts and traditions of magic and the allied entertainment arts, with a focus on encouraging and educating youth'. It meets on the first Wednesday of every month 6.30-8.30pm at Takapuna Library on The Strand. Budding magicians of any age welcome! For more info, visit: scmc.co.nz

It’s great to see the young ones getting into magic. I’m pleased that there seem to be a lot of children on the Shore who are keen to learn.

Gail and Graham outside their Takapuna home

Sharing the love with Shore dads

With Father's Day just around the corner on Sunday 3 September, we’ve taken the opportunity to chat to some local Shore-based fathers about what the day means to them, what their favourite family memories are and how they’ll be celebrating the special day.

Quality family time for Jimmy

Jimmy O’Brien is the director of Colliers Auckland North, a leading commercial real estate company on the Shore providing a full range of services including investment sales, industrial sales and leasing, office leasing and retail leasing. Jimmy lives locally in Castor Bay with his wife, Fleur, their son Mack (22) and daughter Riley (20). Both his children are in their last year at university. Jimmy tells Channel about taking the time to remember his dad, the special camping memories he’s creating with his kids and the joy of seeing his kids grow into great adults.

Channel Mag: What does Father’s Day mean to you?

Jimmy O’Brien: It's a day to appreciate and remember my dear departed dad and enjoy some family time with my two kids and wife.

What do you love most about being a father?

Sharing the journey and watching your little babies grow up into lovely young adults. Nothing can beat the pride you feel seeing your son and daughter develop and achieve their goals.

Describe a treasured memory or experience that you’ve had together with your child/children?

There are so many. However, we have done a few father/son and dad daughter camping trips. These one-on-one times bring you so much closer and have created happy memories for me and I hope my kids.

Any words of wisdom on parenthood for others?

There is an old saying, “the best thing you can spend on your child is time".

What’s your ideal Father’s Day gift and how do you celebrate the day?

I really like reading what Mack and Riley write in my Father's Day cards. A bit soppy I know but it's just gold! Oh and you can never have too many socks. Always nice to have a family Father's Day dinner out too. Soul Bar is my favourite kids!

Jimmy O’Brien

Adventures on the agenda for Simon

Simon Mathewson lives in Torbay and is dad to Harvey (four) and Isla (nearly two) and husband to Laura. After living in Glenfield, they are loving being closer to the beach in Torbay. Simon says his family live pretty standard lives during the week; he and Laura both work and the kids go to day-care. They treasure the weekends and prioritise family time, kids' activities and catching up with friends. Simon chats about the adventures he has with his young family, exploring new places and his perfect Father’s Day (spoiler alert, it involves golf!).

Channel Mag: What does Father’s Day mean to you?

Simon Mathewson: To me it is a chance to celebrate being a family and is a good opportunity to pause, take a breath and appreciate what we have and the life we are building. My favourite part of Father’s Day is seeing the kids get excited in the morning with presents and breakfast in bed.

What do you love most about being a father?

I love that you can turn anything into a fun adventure, whether it’s playing with toys inside on a rainy day or walking around the golf course or going to the supermarket during lockdown. Their imagination makes everything fun. I also love watching them grow into little people with individual personalities and interests. It’s amazing watching them learn and develop and I get really proud seeing that. For example, watching Harvey learn how to swim and seeing him be really chuffed with himself makes me really proud.

Describe a treasured memory or experience that you’ve had together with your child/children?

We took a family holiday to the Hawke’s Bay in October last year which was really special. It’s a lovely part of New Zealand and it was awesome exploring new places, beaches, playgrounds and wineries with the kids. We decided to fly down which was the first time we have all flown together which was really fun. Harvey was really excited having a seat all to himself and Isla did really well on the flight.

Any words of wisdom on parenthood for others?

Operate at your kids' level. Having little kids is hectic so just do what works for them. Even if they’re happy pretending their cutlery are swords and it means they eat their dinner then lean into it and have a sword fight with them. Table manners can come later.

Contestable grant rounds opening soon...

Auckland Foundation hold a number of contestable granting rounds every year, each with different focus areas to support our communities.

Our 2023 granting rounds are open for three weeks from August 14th. Head to our website for more information.

aucklandfoundation.org.nz

What’s your ideal Father’s Day gift and how do you celebrate the day?

Probably a round of golf at a nice course or something golf related. I stopped playing cricket once the kids came along and golf has slowly taken over. My ideal Father’s Day would be a special breakfast in bed with the kids then some sort of family activity followed by a round of golf with some friends who are also dads.

Simon Mathewson

Craig's creating memories with his girls

Craig Burkett is dad to three teenage daughters, Paige (18½) , Holly (16) and Charli (14½). Originally from Christchurch, Craig’s been a graphic designer at Benefitz for seven years, and lived in Auckland just over eight years. Craig is raising his girls on his own after his wife passed away three and a half years ago. He talks to Channel about creating fun memories together, not sweating the small stuff, and raising three girls with respect.

Channel Mag: What does Father’s Day mean to you?

Craig Burkett: For me every day is like Father’s Day lol… but it is nice to take a day to stop and acknowledge the role that a father has in the development and nurturing of his children. And also to remember your own dad who may or not still be with you.

What do you love most about being a father?

Some children don’t have both parents so in my case I am a mum and a dad and it is a joy to watch my girls develop and grow into tiny adults and you hope you instil in them good values and habits. The rewards far outweighs the challenges.

Describe a treasured memory or experience that you’ve had together with your children?

We constantly have little moments where we are all together, laughing and joking at something or someone (usually me!). Those are the experiences I remember, especially in today’s pace of life where time seems to fly past.

Any words of wisdom on parenthood for others?

Don’t sweat the small stuff… or try to box your children in. Treat them with respect; they are all unique and different and will eventually grow in to fully aware young adults who will end being your friends.

Blake loves the little things

Blake Noble is Takapuna born and bred. He now lives in Belmont with his family and is a company director in the road transport sector. Blake is dad to Poppy (eight) and Lachie (two) and husband to Niki. He reconnected with Niki after seeing her in the pages of Channel Mag, now they’re married with two young kids! Blake answers Channel’s questions about what Father’s Day means to him, creating special memories from the small things and anticipating the fun socks he’ll receive this year.

Channel Mag: What does Father’s Day mean to you?

Blake Noble: A day to celebrate family in general and appreciate the happy, healthy children we have that makes life infinitely better.

What do you love most about being a father?

The unique bond you have with your children; something that’s simply irreplaceable.

Describe a treasured memory or experience that you’ve had together with your children?

Coming home from work each night to see them; good mood or bad, it all disappears when you’re swiftly immersed into the world of a toddler!

Any words of wisdom on parenthood for others?

Be present. I was a bit slow on the uptake with this but it’s often what you get from doing the smallest things with them that create the best memories.

What’s your ideal Father’s Day gift and how do you celebrate the day?

My ideal gift is anything that they put thought into (and paid for it themselves lol) and a card with nice words. If their social calendars aren’t full then we might go out for a coffee too!

What’s your ideal Father’s Day gift and how do you celebrate the day?

Fun socks from the kids, I love their crazy thought patterns for what they choose!

Craig Burkett

Blake Noble

Jeremy, Freddie and Mitre 10!

Jeremy Jones and his wife, Ashleigh, are new parents to a son called Freddie. He just celebrated his first birthday, so Jeremy has just completed one year of fatherhood. The family live in Beach Haven and Jeremy works at AIA New Zealand in the legal team based at Smales Farm. He talks to Channel Mag about his reflections on his first year as a dad and the Mitre 10 vouchers he’s looking forward to receiving on Father’s Day!

Channel Mag: What does Father’s Day mean to you?

Jeremy Jones: As a new dad, it’s an opportunity to look back and celebrate what a journey my wife and I have been on over the last year starting our family. Freddie came four weeks early, but after a bumpy start, he is thriving and watching him grow is so rewarding.

What do you love most about being a father?

Watching and celebrating each milestone Freddie has achieved. His first word was “Dada”, so he is definitely on the right track in life!

Describe a treasured memory or experience that you’ve had together with your child/children?

At the end of the summer, we took the family boat to Motuihe Island for the day and Freddie loved spending time at the beach and swimming. It reminded me of the trips I used to do with my parents and sister to the beach.

Any words of wisdom on parenthood for others?

I’m pretty new to parenting, so still learning the ropes – but I’d say the most important thing I have found as a new father is having a supportive network of friends and family around you makes the world of difference.

What’s your ideal Father’s Day gift and how do you celebrate the day?

Mitre 10 voucher! I can’t wait until Freddie can push the little trolley around and enjoy Mitre 10 just as much as I do! We’ll likely head out for breakfast and then catch up with my parents later in the day for dinner.

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

From dull to dazzling

Improving home lighting can significantly enhance the ambiance, functionality and energy efficiency of your living space. Here are ten impactful changes you can make:

Switch to LED bulbs: They are more energy-efficient, have a longer lifespan and produce less heat compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.

Layered lighting: Instead of relying solely on one central light source, create layers of lighting using different fixtures such as floor and table lamps, wall sconces and pendant lights, adding depth to your space and allowing you to adjust the lighting for various purposes.

Dimmer switches: Install dimmer switches to control the intensity of the light in different areas of your home. Dimming the lights can create a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for winding down in the evening.

Task lighting: Install task-specific lighting in areas needing focused illumination, such as reading nooks, study areas or kitchen countertops. This reduces eye strain and enhances productivity.

Smart lighting systems: Invest in smart lighting solutions controlled remotely through smartphones or voice-activated assistants, allowing you to adjust the lighting even when you're away from home, providing added convenience and security.

Highlight architectural features and artwork: Use accent lighting to draw attention to architectural elements, artwork or decorative pieces, creating visual interest and focal points.

Lighting in outdoor spaces: Extend lighting improvements to outdoor areas such as patios, decks and gardens to enhance the aesthetics and safety of your property during evenings and nights.

Consider colour temperature: Choose light bulbs with appropriate colour temperatures for different areas. Warmer tones (around 2700-3000K) are suitable for bedrooms and living rooms, while cooler tones (around 4000-5000K) work well in task-oriented areas like kitchens.

Energy-efficient fixtures: Opt for energy-efficient lighting fixtures, such as Energy Star-rated products, to reduce electricity consumption and lower utility bills.

Automated timers and sensors: Install motion sensors or automated timers for outdoor lighting and in rooms that are frequently occupied briefly, ensuring lights are only active when needed, saving energy.

Implementing these changes will transform your home's lighting, creating a more comfortable, aesthetically pleasing, and energyefficient environment. Call us now for a free consultation.

Lewis Rudall, Lake Road Electrical 09 242 2204

Jeremy and Freddie Jones

Home lighting improvements that make a difference

Local Board work programme 2023

From DTLB Chair, Toni van Tonder

The Local Board annual work programme has been finally adopted. At the end of last year, the Local Board was told to expect a 61% cut in its discretionary budget of $1.345 million. It hasn’t been easy for us or our community groups.

When the Council adopted its annual budget on June 8, the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board received a much-reduced budget cut (9%). The relief was short-lived, when we learned other costs that were usually funded at a regional level would need to be met by the Local Board. This included the cost of running the Kauri Kids early childhood education centre at Takapuna Pools, as well as a $100k cost to investigate a potential third floor on the Takapuna Library, as an alternative to the Waiwharariki ANZAC Square library and community hub. We’ve had to make some big decisions that have directly impacted our community and, for some, their jobs. It’s been pretty rough, to be honest. As decision makers, we’ve had to focus on the facts and find ways to get the most value for the most people, with what little we have with which to create impact.

We were enormously grateful for the strong community steer we received through the annual budget consultation. With a record number of submissions (up by 1100 from the previous year), we used this to sharpen our focus. With less cash to splash, and a changing community need, our work programme for the year is not a ‘business as usual’ offering. We’re looking at ways to do better for our environment, build resilient neighbourhoods, and support the arts and our town centres, and bolster the places where communities gather.

After six months of discussions, we feel that we’ve struck a balance between preserving what the community strongly advocated for, while still responding to the critical issues that are front of mind.

Below is a quick guide to where it all landed. We’re happy to share that there is much to celebrate.

Environment: Environment and water quality continue to emerge as top priorities. We’re proud of our environmental groups and recognise their important role in restoration, volunteerism and in building community. These groups will be funded above previous levels, as this work is never-ending, and the army of volunteers continues to grow. This year, we’ve added in a new food resilience project to build on our network of community gardens, pātaka kai (community pantries) and to establish produce swaps. The cost-of-living crisis is impacting many and by sharing excess produce and skills, will fill bellies, connect and upskill neighbours.

We’ll continue to address water quality issues in our Wairau catchment, aiming to create management principles to better protect and care for this important local water body. We’re committed to working alongside the Kaipātiki Local Board which shares this network of open streams and rivers with us.

This year we’re excited to produce a walking and cycling guide that folk can use online, or grab in print, to discover some of our lesser-known parks, reserves and off-road tracks, to be immersed in nature and enjoy our natural assets. This is the free stuff available to us all, and it’s time we drew attention to it.

Partnerships: We will continue to support a range of organisations through an annual grant supplementing their mixed funding models. While some funding has changed, we still care for their success and we know you do too: The Depot Artspace, Lake House Arts, The PumpHouse Theatre, The Rose Centre, Auckland North Community Development (ANCAD), Devonport Museum, North Shore Brass, Michael King Writers’ Centre, The Rose Centre, Shore Junction and Younite.

Economic development and events: We continue to support our town centres by advocating on their behalf throughout Council, and by providing event delivery funding to our Business Improvement Districts, because we love how these events build community as well as drive economic success. We will continue to support the Young Enterprise Scheme to give youth real-world experience in entrepreneurism. We’re scoping the needs of the Sunnynook shops, as Sunnynook is rapidly changing, and we want to improve amenity and foster a strong sense of ‘shop local’. We’re excited to activate the new Waiwharariki ANZAC square, opening in early September, by showcasing the ways it can be used through interactive placemaking. This civic space was designed with you in mind and, after so much disruption, we want you there and loving it!

Community development: After the January floods, we learned a few things about ‘community’. This was amplified in public consultation on the budget. First, we learned how critical our community houses are: veritable beacons of light when times are rough. When houses flooded in Sunnynook and people were in need, they went to their community centre to find support and help with recovery. When the community is strong and connected, they will be more resilient in times of crises. It’s time we fortify the spaces where communities gather.

Our Local Board area has a population of approximately 60,000, 44% of whom are migrants. One third (roughly) live on the Devonport peninsula, while the other two thirds are in Takapuna North. There’s a heck of a lot of people we haven’t been reaching, and we haven’t always distributed our community development funding equitably.

Keeping that in mind, the Local Board community development strategy has pivoted. Instead of a top-down event-led approach, we’ve created two community outreach roles that sit in Devonport Community House and Sunnynook Community Centre. These Community Activators will be out there, on the ground, agile in supporting neighbourhood+-level connections, and responding to need as it emerges.

For instance, if a residents' group wants to build their reach, or a migrant group needs support navigating the grants programme, our activators will support them. We’re talking neighbourhood BBQs, welcome packs for new housing developments, supporting youth-led activities and grass-roots community development. We’re excited about this shift and can’t wait to see what good things come of it.

After eight months of discussions, we feel we can move our community forward, meet the social, cultural, environmental and economic needs that are our duty to address, and continue to make the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board area the best place to live, work and visit.

To our community partners who have gone through the wringer alongside us, we’re sorry it’s been so uncertain and so uncomfortable. We know you do amazing work, and we look forward to working in partnership this year and beyond.

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

ON NEW VEHICLE STOCK EXCLUSIVE TO PEUGEOT CITROEN OPEL NORTH SHORE

*$5,000 Cashback offer available on new vehicles owned by Peugeot Citroen Opel North Shore. Excludes demonstrators & distributor stock. Vehicles must be purchased by 31/08/2023 or while stock lasts. Not available in conjunction with any other offer or discount. $5,000 can be transferred by way of direct deposit to an NZ bank account of the purchaser or discounted off the price of the vehicle at initial purchase.

with Lindsay Knight

Bowls now played all the year round

The changing face of bowls, and the fact that is now a sport played all year round rather than just the summer, is reflected in Bowls North Harbour’s calendar for the 2023-24 season.

One of the centre’s flagship events, the Trust-sponsored Senior Masters, will now be played in early October rather than February, where in recent years it has run into so many challenges.

And such has been the ever-increasing congestion in the playing programme, the inter-club pennants will be played this month, some weeks before the official opening of the centre’s 2023-24 season, which is Sunday 3 September, when the traditional executive fours will be played.

While popularly received by the many bowlers aged 60 and upwards, and with a good sponsor, the Masters event has suffered disruptions outside the sport’s control. In 2021, as the tournament was about to start, there was a sudden Covid lockdown. And this February there was another late cancellation because of the horrible weather.

But by shifting the event to 2-6 October, BNH board chairperson Robyne Walker hopes the tournament can be given more certainty.

She says that it is intended the early October date will become

permanent from now on because February is extremely full of events.

The Masters is in two age-group categories, 60-74 and 75 upwards. Browns Bay is again the venue and the finals on Friday 6 October, will be live-streamed. There has been constant debate in the past decade or so over the merits of the pennants competition as opposed to the more established inter-club sevens which is played in the more traditional formats, of singles, pairs and fours.

Accommodating both competitions in a regular season has proven difficult and as the sevens leads onto a national title many have seen that as having priority.

So it is perhaps sensible to find a new date for the pennants and now with so many carpet greens, and the likelihood of more being covered, it seems a logical step to play the pennants this year on the weekends of 19-20 August and 26-27 August.

The pennants will be again in men’s, women’s and mixed divisions, with the latter a benefit to those clubs with smaller memberships enabling their top players from each gender to be together and highly competitive.

The early part of the 2023-24 season will again feature on carpet greens two events which continue to grow in prestige, the 2-4-2 mixed pairs on 16-17 September and the Ivan Kostanich open men’s singles on 23-24 September.

Meanwhile, the centre celebrated its 2022-23 season, with an awards function in which the Hobsonville club and Takapuna’s Lauren Mills were the principal winners.

Hobsonville, which has been extremely innovative and successful in recruiting newer players, was named club of the year.

And Mills was rewarded for her consistency in centre and club team competitions by winning the supreme bowler of the year title. She was chosen ahead of some strong competition, including national women’s singles champion and Commonwealth Games medallist Selina Goddard, multiple centre champion Elaine McClintock and winner of the male category Neil Fisher.

The other special awards winners were one-to-five year men, Shaun Goldsbury (Takapuna); one-to-five year women, Gaye Horne (Mairangi Bay); volunteer of the year, Colleen Rice (Mairangi Bay); coach, Graham Dorreen (Takapuna); greenkeeper, Tony Rickerby (Takapuna); umpire, Brendon Wilson (Orewa); administrator, Jenny Wilson (Manly); official, Pete Sheehan (Browns Bay); Presidents Cup, Raewyn Thomas (Orewa and centre treasurer).

bowlsnorthharbour.com

Lauren Mills

The Feeling of Cancer by Sandra Russell

Devonport resident publishes book about the emotional impact of cancer

Close to half of us will now experience cancer in our lifetime and although many books are written about living with cancer, the story of the emotional impact is rarely told. A recently published book, The Feeling of Cancer, is Devonport local and psychotherapist Sandra Russell’s deeply personal and human exploration of her inner world to reveal cancer’s emotional impact – to self, to life, to family, and ultimately to identity.

Having spent her working life helping others manage in times of emotional crisis, Sandra found herself having to navigate through the turmoil of diagnosis, treatment and beyond. The Feeling of Cancer is Sandra’s honest and frank account of how she did that. This is not an academic book, but a human story told with depth from the heart, which she hopes readers will relate to. It’s a story that captures something fundamental and unique about dealing with a life-changing illness and facing your own mortality day-to-day.

Channel Mag’s Aidan Bennett recently read Sandra’s book. Having been diagnosed with stage three melanoma himself in 2020, he has also faced personal challenges that have had an emotional impact. It was a book that resonated with him. He put these questions to Sandra Russell in late July in advance of her upcoming talk at Takapuna Library that is titled "How writing about illness helps emotional wellbeing".

AIDAN BENNETT: Congratulations Sandra on writing the book. What led to you deciding to write a book about your journey with blood cancer, multiple myeloma?

SANDRA RUSSELL: I was working as a psychotherapist with a thriving practice in Takapuna when I was diagnosed and in the early days of my diagnosis, I was looking for a book to help me understand and navigate the emotional turmoil I was experiencing. Nothing I read felt like it had the depth and honesty I was searching for, so I started writing as a way of trying to make sense of it all.

How long did it take you from start to the completed manuscript?

A book has been in my mind since the beginning, but overall it’s been a four year process. I wanted to bring together my English Lit degree and my psychotherapy work with my ongoing reading. However, the first draft wasn’t written until I joined the Masters of Creative Writing at AUT, a very stimulating and intense course that convinced me not to write the essays I had planned, but rather a very personal memoir. Unfortunately, my cancer relapsed during the first couple of months so I put the course on hold and I returned the following year.

Is this the first book you have published and who were the key people and organisations that helped you bring it to fruition?

Yes it is. I had wonderful university mentors, two well-known, established poets, and on leaving the Masters, a literary agent took me on to help me find a publisher. This was quite a process but we found one who loved the book. Unfortunately, he had to drop out due to illness. He kindly gave me access to his contacts, and I self-published through Your Books NZ, which gave me time to work with an editor to make the manuscript less academic and more accessible to take the book to market.

This is a very personal account of your cancer challenge. Did the process of writing the book help you through the struggle? I am presuming it did, given the title of your upcoming presentation. Yes, absolutely. I found it painful to write at times, but my firm belief is that putting words to difficult feelings is central to wellbeing, and my book is all about my process of struggling to do just that.

What do you hope readers of the book will get out of it?

The feedback from readers is that they feel I’ve been able to articulate the rollercoaster of feelings that everyone goes through when met with a life-threatening illness. It has helped them to feel understood and validated. The book has also helped people talk to each other about the difficult times they are having both during and after cancer treatment. I have also heard from their family members and caregivers that the book has helped them understand what their loved ones might be going through.

How is your health now and what is your current status in terms of your cancer journey?

I have lived with cancer for 10 years now and am on my second remission. I have been very lucky to have a funded drug which has kept me in remission now for over four years. There have been ups and downs with side effects along the way and, of course, the challenges of Covid, as I am considered immune-compromised. But life is pretty good. When I relapse next, and I will, there is uncertainty around treatment as we lack funded drugs in New Zealand currently, so that’s a major anxiety.

You are providing your presentation at Takapuna Library at 2pm on Sunday 20 August. Tell us about that presentation and who you would like to come along and listen (and why they should come along).

I will be in conversation with a friend and colleague, psychotherapist Amanda Cox, and as well as talking about the book, we’ll be talking about how putting feelings into words is a way of not just making sense of those feelings, but also a form of self-care. I think anyone who is interested in writing, journalling or just processing feelings in order to make sense of them will find it useful, as well as people who live with illness or have been through cancer themselves. PaperPlus Takapuna will be selling books at the upcoming presentation.

How writing about illness helps emotional wellbeing

Sunday 20 August, 2pm at Takapuna Library. You can also order your copy of ‘The Feeling of Cancer’ online at thefeelingofcancer.com. The book will be available to buy at this event in August and is also available online and in bookstores, and on Amazon Kindle as an eBook.

Sandra Russell

Plan ahead to keep your cool this summer

Embrace all seasons with comfort at home, whatever the weather.

After 16 years on the Shore, North Shore Heat Pumps Ltd is the local expert in residential air-conditioning. Owner Tim Cadell and his team are here to help every step of the way. Here are Tim’s tips for keeping your cool over the spring and summer months ahead…

As the days grow longer and warmer, it's time to prepare for the beautiful seasons of spring and summer. At North Shore Heat Pumps, we are your trusted Mitsubishi specialist, with solutions to keep you cool and comfortable during the sunny days to come.

Energy-efficient cooling: With our state-of-the-art Mitsubishi heat pump range, you can enjoy energy-efficient cooling that doesn't break the bank. Our heat pumps are designed to provide optimal performance while saving on electricity bills, allowing you to enjoy the spring season without worrying about excessive costs.

Fresh indoor air quality: Embrace the spirit of spring with clean and fresh indoor air. Mitsubishi air-conditioning units come equipped with advanced filtration systems that effectively capture and eliminate

allergens, dust, and pollutants, ensuring your indoor environment remains healthy and invigorating.

Create your personal oasis: Your home is your sanctuary, and our heat pumps can help you create the perfect oasis during the summer season. Whether it's relaxing in the living room, working in your home office, or sleeping peacefully at night, our cooling solutions will keep you comfortable throughout the day.

At North Shore Heat Pumps our team of experienced professionals is ready to assist you in finding the ideal heat pump system that meets your needs and budget. We can install within seven days from first enquiry – guaranteed!

Don't wait for the heat to catch you off guard – contact us today om 09 915 0796 to schedule an obligation-free home assessment. Let us help you stay cool and comfortable throughout spring and summer, making every moment at home a delightful and refreshing experience.

Milford has Father’s Day 2023 covered

Celebrating fathers on Sunday 3 September

No matter what you are looking for, we have Father’s Day covered in Milford. Our huge variety of main street and Milford Centre stores have lots of special gifts for dads and we also many of the Shore’s very best eateries to treat them to a special brekky, lunch or dinner on Sunday 3 September.

Make sure you get in and see our stores during August to get that special gift for dad. The variety is real; from fragrances to fashion, clothing to car care, you will find something for your favourite man of the house.

If you can’t decide on a specific item, a gift voucher from one of our superb stores will provide the answer – whether it’s a book from the Booklover or a voucher from one of our many fine eateries. I’ve listed over 44 Father’s Day suggestions, but you will find there’s even more than that in Milford!

Check out our website – milfordshops.co.nz and type in the names of the businesses selling things for ‘Dad’.

Uptown Milford

Cutting Machine – hair Care

Bunty’s Burgers – eatery

Crop – eatery

Dear Friends – eatery

Khu Khu – eatery

Langkawi – eatery

Milford Beach Pizza – eatery

Supernova – eatery

Talay Thai – eatery

The Don - Eatery

The Milford – eatery

Tokki – eatery

The Booklover – books/notebooks

Meebz – coffee accessories

Fine-O-Wine – organic wines/spirits

Just Workout – gym (voucher)

Downtown Milford

NZ Electronics – mobile phone accessories

La Mexicana – eatery

Scrunchy Millers – eatery

Seansuk Thai Massage – massage/vouchers

Central Milford

The Warehouse – car care products

Arazzo – gifts

MorArt – gifts

Barber Shop Co – haircare products/voucher

Chemist Warehouse – fragrances, skincare etc.

Life Pharmacy –fragrances, skincare etc.

Unichem Milford – fragrances, skincare etc.

Ecco Shoes – footwear/voucher

Foot Mechanics – footwear/voucher

Mischief Shoes – footwear/voucher

Step It Up Shoes – footwear/voucher

The Merchant – footwear/voucher

Sportscraft Man – mens fashion

Body Haven – massage/vouchers

Santuary Thai – massage/vouchers

3 C Easy – mobile phone accessories

Whitcoulls – books/games

Beam Café – eatery

Bean Grinding – eatery

Cave A Vin – eatery

Kara Café – eatery

Muffin Break – eatery

Musashi – eatery

Paulo Café – eatery

Pecan Piccolo – eatery

Pyms of Milford – eatery

Muffin Break

The Booklover

Ecco Shoes

MorArt

Sportscraft Man

Scrunchy Millers

Adventure travel with your family

Embarking on a travel adventure with your family is an incredible way to create lasting memories, strengthen bonds, and explore the world together. Here are a few highlights recommended by Shore Travel…

Africa safari

Family adventure travel to Africa offers thrilling safaris, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes. Witnessing majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, such as elephants, giraffes, and lions, creates cherished memories for the whole family. Exploring ancient rainforests and trekking to see endangered mountain gorillas instills a sense of awe and conservation awareness in children. Engaging with local communities and learning about their traditions fosters empathy and appreciation for different cultures. Africa's diverse landscapes, from the vast savannahs to the stunning Victoria Falls, provide opportunities for exhilarating activities like white-water rafting and bungee jumping.

Tour Vietnam or Thailand

Discover the vibrant cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, where you can explore bustling markets, taste delicious street food, and visit historical sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels. Cruise the iconic Halong Bay, marvelling at the limestone karsts jutting out of the emerald waters. Immerse yourselves in the cultural heritage of Thailand as you explore the bustling streets of Bangkok, visit ancient temples like Wat Arun, and savour the flavours of Thai cuisine. Unwind on the pristine beaches of Phuket or Krabi, where crystal-clear waters and soft sands await.

You’re Invited: FREE North Shore Travel Expo Event

Thursday 24th August 2023

Plan Your Dream Holiday for 2024 and Beyond with our selection of Travel Suppliers

World-wide destinations; Self-guided and package holidays; Cruises; Tours and more.

Expo Booth Style, drop by anytime 4pm-6.30pm. Venue: Pupuke Golf Club Rooms Drinks, Nibbles & Door prizes. RSVP essential

Shore Travel

Cnr Kitchener & Milford Roads, Milford (09) 489 2597

hello@shoretravel.co.nz

www.shoretravel.co.nz

Ski Japan

Experience the ultimate family ski holiday in Japan! Discover worldclass ski resorts like Niseko, Hakuba, and Nozawa Onsen, offering pristine slopes and superb snow conditions. Embrace adventure with ski lessons for all skill levels, ensuring everyone enjoys the thrill of gliding down the mountains. Indulge in cozy accommodation and warm Japanese hospitality, creating lasting memories for the whole family. Beyond skiing, explore traditional towns, savour delicious cuisine, and unwind in soothing hot springs. With a blend of exhilarating activities, cultural immersion, and unmatched natural beauty, Japan guarantees an unforgettable family ski getaway.

Le Boat, France

Embark on an extraordinary family holiday in France with Le Boat and immerse yourself in a world of adventure and tranquillity. Set sail on the picturesque waterways, meandering through stunning landscapes and enchanting villages. Choose from a diverse fleet of comfortable boats, specially designed to accommodate families of all sizes. Explore at your own pace, stopping to sample local cuisine, visit historic landmarks, and indulge in outdoor activities. Whether you're cruising along the majestic Canal du Midi or navigating the charming rivers of Brittany, Le Boat promises an unforgettable experience filled with quality time, tranquil scenery, and cherished memories for the whole family.

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

Embrace adventure with ski lessons for all skill levels, ensuring everyone enjoys the thrill of gliding down the mountains.

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Spring is in the air

Devonport Flowers…

The My Little Posie range - so sweet and comes in four different colours for only $75* – ensured to brightened anyone’s day!

*Special offer for Channel Mag readers: use code CM10 to receive 10% off

Celebrate the arrival of spring coming soon by adding vibrant colour and beauty to your home or workplace.

Devonport Flowers uses only the best, market fresh, seasonal flowers and foliage selected at Auckland’s flower markets, to create beautiful bouquets and quaint posies or contemporary arrangements. Whether you need a bouquet for a special someone, a centrepiece for a dinner party, some flowers for the office or just want to brighten up your own space, we have the perfect arrangement for you. We also have a range of floral-inspired gifts, gift vouchers, plants, bespoke hampers, vases, candles and chocolates to impress the most discerning shopper, just perfect for Father's Day this September.

with our 'My Little Posie' range

Whether you know exactly what you want or have no idea at all, we work with you to ensure the result is simply perfect. Please contact us to arrange a personal consultation.

Our approach is simple; beautiful flowers created for you by our floral artisans who have a real passion for flowers, a passion we love to share. We offer a personalised service to make sure that your order is just right. Whether you have a specific colour scheme in mind or want to include a special message with your flowers, we will work with you to create the perfect arrangement that will make your lucky recipient smile.

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

Devonport Flowers is pleased to deliver flowers Auckland-wide, from Whangaparaoa in the north, to Papakura in the south and every suburb in between, including the whole of the North Shore and the CBD.

Devonport Flowers 63 Victoria Rd, Devonport 09 445 8350 devonportflowers.co.nz

The My Little Posie range - so sweet and comes in four different colours for only $75 – ensured to brightened anyone’s day!

Time to dip your toes into the water?

The NZ Foil Team can get you started and there’s a special Father’s Day 2023 deal…

With spring on the way, you might be thinking now is a good time to dip your toes in the water and shape up for summer. So why not try something new, like foiling in one of its many forms, and have so much fun while doing it?

Foiling is taking the world by storm, becoming popular with sailors, surfers, wake-boarders, stand-up paddlers, windsurfers, kite-surfers and anyone looking to try something that’s really fun, free and exhilarating, not to mention completely addictive!

Foiling options are developing rapidly. You can choose from wing foiling, prone foiling, tow foiling, dock-starts, SUP (stand up paddle), foiling in the waves or downwind SUP foiling! Or do whichever one the conditions call for – Wing foiling if it’s windy and the surf is either up or flat, dock-starts if it is flat and glassy, or prone or tow foiling if the surf’s up but there is no wind!

What better way to spend Father's Day than learning a new activity?!

Sam Loader, the founder of NZ Foil Centre, has designed and developed his own brand of premium foiling gear and accessories, called PPC. PPC is in huge demand in many international markets, despite a lot of competition from overseas brands.

"Foiling is so popular because it is has many advantages over other water-sports and provides such a free and relaxing feeling as you glide over the water," says Sam Loader.

54A BARRYS POINT ROAD

The NZ Foil Team can get you started & there’s a special FATHER’S DAY 2023 DEAL…

The team at NZ Foil Centre are expert foilers and can advise you on the best way to get started on your foiling journey. So come in and talk to the friendly and knowledgeable team at their easy-to-access Barrys Point Road headquarters to find out more and get a special Father’s Day deal. They also have a fantastic website where you can explore more: nzfoilcentre.co.nz

NZ Foil Centre – 54a Barrys Point Road. Phone 09 486 0699. Email: support@nzfoilcentre.co.nz

Open: Monday-Saturday 10am until 5pm. Closed on Sundays. Visit: nzfoilcentre.co.nz

Garden makeovers for selling your home

Just as updating or staging the interior of your home can make a world of difference to buyers, spending a little time on your gardens can make a world of difference and greatly boost your curb appeal.

You don't have to re-design your outdoors, call the diggers in or clear out your local garden centre though; there are some very simple and straightforward ways to make a huge difference. Most buyers will be concerned with the house and its location first and foremost; but they will certainly appreciate a garden that looks open, neat, and easy to care for. Here are the main steps you need to take to get your garden ship shape:

Tidying – Remove any garden debris, perished trees and shrubs or broken or tired looking furniture. Rake up leaves, prune and dead head your shrubs.

Trimming – Make sure all trees and shrubs are trimmed back away from gutters and windows. Give your hedges and shrubs a nice sharp trim and if you have trees or shrubs along your driveway make sure they are trimmed back as much as possible so the driveway and paths feel more spacious and open.

Weeding and mulching – Weed all garden beds and if possible cover with a nice thick layer of bark or mulch. This will not only keep the weeds away for longer, it really neatens the look of a garden, making everything look fresh, tidy and healthy.

Lawns – A freshly mowed lawn is a must, while a wild unkempt lawn just makes buyers think of lost Sunday afternoons.

Cleaning – Give decks, paths and driveways a good wash or water-blast. Now is also a great time to check for repairs to hard assets such as decks, fences, and retaining walls.

Additions – If your outdoor furniture is tired, broken or nonexistent it would be good to buy or borrow a nice fresh set, so buyers can envision themselves relaxing in your newly created oasis. You don’t have to break the bank though, a simple pop of colour with some seasonal flowers, or an outdoor mirror or sculpture can really brighten up an entry or make a gloomy corner seem refreshed.

Amanda Graham Newhaven Gardens Ltd

021 378969

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

newhavengardens.co.nz

By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist

Best time of day to exercise

Cooler weather encourages hibernation. If your motivation to exercise tends to drop away when the temperature does it can be challenging to begin again. A good starting point is choosing the right time of day.

Morning exercise gets it done before the day gets in the way and increases metabolic rate for the hours ahead. Morning provides the opportunity to do fasted cardio, often a good way to burn body fat. Many people prefer to exercise when it’s light and mornings provide the best of limited opportunity at this time of year. But morning exercise doesn’t work for everyone. If you already have an early start for work then later in the day may be the only practical workout time. Strength, flexibility, co-ordination and stamina often improve as the day goes on, making it a good time for weight training. Many people find it helps to have a couple of meals on board prior over the day before attempting intense exercise. And being at the gym is a great way to avoid spending evenings treat-eating with the TV.

Exercising somewhere between early morning and post-work can be a great way to break up the day, particularly if you have a sedentary job. Circulating blood to your brain improves cognitive functioning. It can help avoid an afternoon energy slump and the associated snacking. A middle-of-the-day workout is even more efficient if you can time it for off-peak gym times (late morning or early afternoon). You can zip around with minimal interruptions and be back to work for an efficient afternoon. The middle of the day can be an effective exercise time for people who feel the cold. It’s more temperate than mornings or evenings.

Your personal temperament plays a big role in the ideal time of day for exercise. We all have an individual chronotype or body rhythm. Some people are natural larks and easily get out of bed for their morning exercise. They find it puts them in a good frame of mind to make healthy choices for the rest of the day. Other people are natural owls and find it more difficult to rise early, often they enjoy an evening workout to blow off steam after a busy day at work.

Going against your natural temperament can make it more difficult to maintain momentum, particularly if you’re losing sleep to do it. Rest is necessary for your body to renew, repair and regulate hormones. If you’re under stress and sleep-deprived then getting up early could be counter-productive. It could also potentially overstimulate your appetite for the remainder of the day. If you’re somebody who struggles to wind down at night then getting your heart rate and adrenaline up close to bedtime could make it more difficult to get a restful sleep, particularly if you’re prone to overheating.

Everyone has a different temperament and a different set of responsibilities, so everyone’s scheduling solution is unique. Most people end up needing to exercise at a variety of times of day to fit everything in. If you’re an owl trying to be a part-time lark it makes sense to experiment with the type of exercise you find least unpleasant.

Ultimately, your fitness needs to fit in around your life, not your life around your fitness. No scheduling solution is perfect, but your winter wellness is worth the effort.

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

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

By Natasha Geo, Takapuna North Community Trust Manager

Action and exploration: 3X3 basketball and mesmerising nature night tours

3x3 basketball tournament

30 July 2023

Calling all intermediate students with hoop dreams! Don't miss out on the action-packed one-day basketball tournament where you can showcase your skills on the court. Compete for a chance to win fantastic prizes for the tournament champion, and keep your eyes peeled for exciting spot prizes throughout the day. It's a slam-dunk opportunity not to be missed! Enter now for your shot at victory and a chance to be a winner. Let the games begin!

Guided nature night tour

Discover our parks after dark, 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 pupukebirdsong.org.nz.

We’d love to hear from you!

Attention all eco-conscious individuals! We're on the lookout for inspiring environmental initiatives and ideas that are making a difference. Your voice matters, and we want to hear from you about what's important to preserve our backyard. Whether it's community projects, sustainable practices, or innovative solutions, your contributions can shape a greener future. Share your insights with us, and together, let's create a brighter, cleaner world for generations to come. Join us at Pupuke Birdsong Project, and let your environmental vision shine! 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:

By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead

LiiFT Aotearoa professional development topics coming up in August

There are some fantastic professional development and training sessions happening over the coming months.

These include: Auckland Region Community Funding Fair via Zoom webinar, on 2 August, 10am–12pm; The importance of a good chair and what a good chair does, on Zoom webinar, 8 August, 6.30pm–7.45pm; Instagram for non-profits, on Zoom webinar, 10 August, 1pm–2pm; Resourcing leaders in times of change, bi-monthly series on Zoom, 23 August, 10am– 11.30am. To find out more about each of these sessions and to register, head to ANCAD’s dedicated training website at LiiFT.nz

ANCAD’s Auckland Region Community Funding Fair

ANCAD's next Auckland Region Community Funding Fair is coming up on 2 August, 10am–12pm. Do you apply for grants? Are you in need of funding? We will be bringing some of the funders to you, live on a Zoom webinar. Here is another opportunity for you to join and hear from the funders and find out about their processes and what to be aware of in your applications. Recorded copies will be available to watch on ANCAD’s Youtube channel @ancad4208 afterwards. You can register for this FREE funding fair by going to events.humanitix. com/auckland-region-community-funding-fair

ANCAD Community Network Meeting

You are invited to this network meeting for all, on Tuesday 15 August, 9.30am–11.30am. Venue TBA. There will be a guest speaker, and following the presentation, there will be an opportunity to share any announcements. RSVP using the QR code below or find out more and how to register at ancad.org.nz/events/

Bond-themed bonanza for ‘Boys First Fund’

Westlake Boys High School’s inaugural Gala Dinner, Saturday 2 September

Tuxedos at the ready! Westlake Boys High School will be shaken, not stirred, by a live cover band at its inaugural gala dinner on Saturday 2 September to fundraise for its newly established ‘Boys First Fund’.

The gala dinner is a black-tie event, with James Bond theme, promises to be an elegant, memorable evening with delicious threecourse dinner, live and silent auctions, and dancing to the everpopular beats of The Dukes of Hammersmith.

About the BOYS FIRST FUND – The WBHS ‘Boys First Fund’ places the wellbeing and development of the students at the heart of every initiative at Westlake Boys. The first beneficiaries of the fund will be their Year 9 intake who will attend camp at Motutapu Island in January 2024, where they will be introduced to the traditions, values and expectations that underpin the Westlake culture. Funding will also provide support to students who are faced with unexpected family events that may hinder their engagement in school activities that carry a charge. As the fund grows, it will extend support to campus projects that all WBHS students will benefit from.

Held at the school's wonderful Peter Rea Auditorium, one of the best facilities for this type of event on the North Shore, the event will have a cash bar, with all attendees receiving a complimentary drink on arrival.

“We are very excited to announce the Westlake Gala Dinner, which promises to be an enjoyable, high-quality evening for members of the school’s wider community,” says David Ferguson, Headmaster, Westlake Boys High School.

“Not only will our guests enjoy a three-course dinner with fine wine and beverages, along with live entertainment, we will be raising funds for the Boys First Fund, which aims to provide exciting and educational opportunities to students who need some extra assistance to access all that Westlake has to offer. This support begins with the camp for all of our Year 9 boys, which is scheduled to take place at Motutapu Island in January 2024.”

Hard working organisers - including the school, the Westlake Foundation and the Westlakers (alumni) organisation - are reaching out to the community for support with sponsorship and for donation of auction items to ensure that the event achieves maximum results for the cause.

About the BAND – Covers band 'The Dukes of Hammersmith' have been a part of Auckland's entertainment scene since 2008. They began performing whilst on their OEs in London, satisfying the large antipodean population's appetite for live music. They have continued to entertain audiences with their upbeat brand of rock and pop covers since. As a five-piece covers band, they have the versatility to recreate the authentic sounds and feel of the artists they are replicating. After playing hundreds of gigs together, they have a repertoire of songs that cater for a range of musical tastes. It's safe to say, the auditorium will be rocking!

This gala dinner will be a fantastic black-tie event that gives guests an excuse to dress up, put on their dancing shoes and enjoy a fabulous night, raising funds so that all the Westlake boys have equal opportunities, in a supportive environment, to engage in school activities unrestricted by financial constraints.

Westlake Boys High School Gala Dinner, Saturday 2 September, from 6pm.

The Peter Rea Auditorium, Westlake Boys High School. Tickets are now on sale at $175 per person, $350 per couple and $1750 per table of 10.

Purchase online at: tinyurl.com/gala007

If you are interested in helping with sponsorship, auction items or want more information, contact Emma Bond at ebo@westlake.school.nz

We are very excited to announce the Westlake Gala Dinner, which promises to be an enjoyable, high-quality evening for members of the school’s wider community.

AUDITORIUM

Saturday, 2nd September 2023

Tickets: $175 per person, $1750 per table

Brought to you by

Fine wine and beverages

Live and silent auctions

Black tie/themed

Live Band - Dukes of Hammersmith

Cyclists claim North Island champs

The WBHS cyclists shrugged off tough racing conditions at the North Island championships in Cambridge, continuing their success from last year and recent Auckland-based events.

The two-day event on 1 -2 July saw our Junior A squad (Harry Shannon, Andrew Jensen, Jack Gillbanks & Marcus Hilder) defend their Team Time Trial title, with both senior teams also making the top 10. Despite a puncture reducing the squad to four, Senior A (Jack Lloyd, Jack Lockett, Liam Lloyd, Reuben Dando and Paddy Jameson) secured third place.

Saturday's road races saw Ashton Sinclair earning a commendable third in the U14 race, while Harry Shannon and Andrew Jensen claimed first and second in the U16 race. Jack Lloyd also took home the U20 title.

In the Criteriums on Sunday, Ashton Sinclair, Harry Shannon, and Andrew Jensen were again amongst the medals. Liam Lloyd narrowly missed gold in the U17 Criterium by just 0.19 seconds, and

Choirs hit high notes

Our Westlake choirs swept the board at the NZCF Big Sing regional festival at the Auckland Town Hall in June. Each choir performed three pieces and Voicemale was named top lower voice choir for the eighth time in the past decade. Their final piece, Mack the Knife, accompanied by the Westlake Big Band, brought the house down.

Choralation, which combines with Westlake Girls, won the mixed voices award and the best performance of an individual item, with Voicemale the runner up for this award.

A few days later the results of the national Choral Composition Competition were announced, with Declan Squire’s song ‘The Fisherman’ placing second in New Zealand.

Voicemale and Choralation will be performing in the NZCF Big Sing Finale between 25 - 27 August at the Auckland Town Hall, along with our sister choir Cantare from Westlake Girls. Only 24 of the 250+ choirs entered throughout NZ are selected for this prestigious event.

Well done to all the students involved for all their hard work and commitment, and a big thank you to the talented music directors and accompanists.

Awards summary:

Lower Voices - Voicemale WBHS

Mixed Voices - Choralation WBHS & WGHS

Second place in Composition: Declan Squire - The Fisherman

Jack Lloyd added a silver to his collection.

Our cyclists also made a strong showing in the B grade, with Blake Jeffery, Jake Wright, Jayden Whitehead, and Matthew Hutchenson all claiming medals. With 15 podium finishes, WBHS was awarded the top boys' school trophy, marking a truly outstanding performance.

Congratulations to all the riders for their outstanding performances.

Distance runners return from African experience

Our distance runners have returned from an unforgettable threeweek trip to Kenya. The 2023 expedition, a culmination of fundraising efforts and parental support, provided these 12 students with lifechanging opportunities, ranging from altitude training to immersing themselves in African culture.

Beginning their journey in Nairobi, the group went to Amboseli National Park nestled under Mount Kilimanjaro, then to Nakuru National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its diverse wildlife.

However, a core objective of the trip was altitude training in Iten, famously referred to as "The Home of Champions". Their rigorous training routine included daily runs, core workouts, technique drills, and the daunting Fartlek runs over undulating, pot-holed clay-based roads. Their efforts were rewarded with a visit to St Patrick’s High School, an athletics powerhouse that has produced many world champions and record-setters. A highlight of their trip, however, was meeting their idols, including double world marathon champion, Abel Kirui, and the legendary Eliud Kipchoge. These encounters served as a testament to their belief: “No human is limited.”

Contributions from the fundraising initiatives allowed the boys to donate two laptops and sports equipment to Abel Kirui's school, Great Joy Academy, making a positive impact on the local community.

The trip left the boys with unforgettable memories and lessons, fuelling their ambitions for the upcoming Auckland Road Race champs and the 24-hour run.

Our cyclists competing at the North Island champs.

Choralation at the town hall

The Westlake distance running team training in Kenya

Westlake Boys’ warm welcome for international guests

During the term break, Westlake Boys had the honour of hosting the International Boys' School Coalition (IBSC) 2023 Annual Conference. This significant event brought together 630 delegates from 15 countries, and for many, it was their first taste of New Zealand and our unique Kiwi hospitality.

Our student helpers were magnificent. They were smartly dressed, extended warm welcomes to our guests and went above and beyond to ensure everyone had a memorable experience.

The conference began with a captivating whakatau (welcome) ceremony, performed by a combined kapa haka rōpū from several schools, including Westlake Boys, Rosmini College, Liston College, Dilworth School, Kelston Boys High School, Kings School, and St Peter's College. This moving performance received a standing ovation from the delegates.

In the opening address, Sir Ian Taylor emphasised the importance of team trust and sharing the profound Māori wisdom: "Our past is the light before us, and the footsteps of the past pave the way to the future."

As part of the conference, our classrooms were transformed into workshop spaces where delegates explored central issues in boys' education and the theme Kia Moemoeā: Dream Beyond Limits.

A workshop highlight was the latest update on New Zealand data showing boys in single-sex schools continued to outperform their counterparts in co-ed settings. Our Headmaster David Ferguson discussed these findings in several interviews, including with TVNZ Breakfast presenter Matty McLean.

The opening day concluded with a pō whakanui manuhiri

(welcome reception) at the Viaduct Events Centre, highlighted by an impressive performance from our Big Band. Throughout the week, our students showcased their talents, including performances from our award-winning choir Voicemale, pianist Shan Liu, and a preview of our school production, Into the Woods.

Westlaker William Pike, shared his personal journey of resilience following a life-altering accident on Mt Ruapehu, deeply moving the audience. Mina Pomare-Peita's presentation, "For Now, I Will Talk for My Brothers," also had a profound impact as she discussed her personal journey after the loss of her older brother and her transformative work as a community education leader up North.

Susan Hassell and Sir Graham Henry also provided enlightening talks, sharing their experiences in transforming Hamilton Boys High into a top-performing school and discussing the leadership culture that led to the All Blacks' 2011 World Cup victory, respectively.

During the conference we were delighted to watch an exhibition match where our 1st XV rugby team took a 34-5 victory over New Plymouth Boys, giving our overseas delegates a glimpse of our national sport and iconic haka.

The week wrapped up with a celebratory pō whakanui (special reception) at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

We are confident our Kiwi hospitality left a lasting impression on our guests, leaving them with warm memories of their time at Westlake. We would like to thank everyone who contributed during the event, especially our event director, Matt Peat, for ensuring such a successful conference.

A combined kapa haka rōpū

Mr Ferguson on stage

Charlie Henderson (Y12) takes a tour around campus

Matua Johnny Waititi farewells a delegate

The Westlake chamber orchestra at the conference Student helpers welcome guests

Ishaan Chandra (Y10) performs with Voicemale

Connecting with nature

One of the many wonders of working in a school with students from early learning through to Year 13, is the way our older students support those who are younger.

Our Year 9 students recently took our kindergarten children on an exciting journey into the Kristin bush to help encourage a deeper connection with nature and foster a sense of adventure. Venturing along the Lucas Creek track, the students participated in a unique activity known as ‘Bush Bingo’.

A specially designed learning experience, this game of bingo offers the students an interactive way to engage with their surroundings. Equipped with bingo cards that feature plants, animals, and geological features; the students set off on a mission to spot and identify as many items as possible. This activity not only encourages teamwork but also heightens their observational skills, fostering an appreciation of our beautiful environment on Kristin’s campus.

This unique educational approach builds partnerships between students from different age groups. Through their experience and

knowledge, older students act as mentors and role models for our younger ones. Younger children bring a fresh perspective, enthusiasm and curiosity that inspires the older ones to view the world through a different lens.

Through their experiences in the bush, the children are given the opportunity to further develop a profound understanding of the importance of nature, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come.

The kindergarten’s commitment to providing an ever-changing learning environment reflects the dynamic nature of the world itself. Education beyond the four walls of the classroom presents limitless opportunities for discovery, innovation and growth. Embracing this through our philosophy, Kristin Kindergarten nurtures a lifelong love of learning in students and prepares them to face the challenges of an ever-evolving world.

Kristy Gilder Kindergarten Assistant Manager

Kristin students compete on a global stage

Following their success at the national competition, three teams of Kristin students were invited to attend the Future Problem Solving international competition in the United States in June.

Held at the University of Massachusetts, the five-day event saw students from around the world come together to identify, address and propose solutions to global issues.

The topic for this year’s international competition was currency, with competitors exploring themes including the pros and cons of a global currency, crypto currencies and cashless societies in the future.

The Kristin middle division team (students Richard Yang, William Huang, Andrew Guan and Arvin Alipourrezaee) won sixth place in a field of more than 80 teams, while Kristin’s senior division team (Catherine Chen, Nicole Wong, Randal Yao and Matthew Zheng) came twelfth.

The third Kristin team (Madeleine Loughton, Cecilia Lin

and Zaid Al-Sakini) competed in the Community Projects division. They had spent two years working on their project, which addressed the emotional and social impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on older citizens.

Student Matthew Zheng said attending the conference was an incredible opportunity.

“The competition demanded rigorous research and allowed us to compete against the very best problem solvers from across the world – an electrifying experience that was a first for many of us,” Matthew said.

Kristin has a long and successful involvement in the Future Problem Solving programme, which aligns to the school’s Future Ready mission. This trip was an unforgettable opportunity for students to represent their school on a global stage.

Following the competition, Kristin School was proud to receive a letter from Hon Jan Tinetti, the Minister of Education, commending the students on their fantastic results.

William Huang, Richard Yang, Arvin Alipourrezaee, Andrew Guan

International Peace Night celebration

Kristin’s International Peace Night concert is the highlight of International Celebration Week, a chance to honour the diverse cultures among the Kristin community.

The theme for this year's concert was ‘culture connects, peace unites’. With a mesmerising array of performances, the stage came alive during the concert with vibrant and captivating performances from Kristin students. Dancers gracefully showcased traditional movements from Chinese, Japanese, Hawaiian, Indian, Korean and Tongan cultures. The rhythmic beats of music and enchanting melodies resonated throughout the venue as bands and musicians from British, Chinese, German, and Spanish cultures showcased their talent.

Westlake success at NZCF regionals of The Big Sing Festival

On Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 June, our four choirs represented Westlake at the Auckland Regional Competition. In total, 68 choirs were competing this year from the Auckland and Northland regions. Audiences enjoyed a diverse and enjoyable range of music over the three-day festival held at Auckland Town Hall.

Our choirs achieved outstanding results this year, with all four WGHS choirs receiving award recognition for their performance programmes.

Cantare (directed by HOD Fiona Wilson) was awarded Best Festival Recital Programme for Upper Voice Choir and the A Capella Award for the best unaccompanied work (Malagueña by Rautavaara).

Choralation (directed by HOD Fiona Wilson) was awarded Best Festival Recital Programme for Mixed Voices and the Adjudicators' Award for the most outstanding performance of a single work (I Te Timatanga by the Wehi Whānau).

Nota Bella Junior Choir (directed by Elise Bradley) was awarded Best Festival Recital Programme for Junior Choir and the award for Best Performance of New Zealand or Pasifika work from a non-finale choir (A Dragon is in my Computer by David Hamilton).

Cigno Voce Senior Choir (directed by Rachel Carson) received the Award for Best Performance of a Choral Art Composition from a non-finale choir (Exultate), and Nota Bella was runner-up.

Our brother school choir, Voicemale (directed by David Squire),

Chemistry Cluedo workshop

Our Year 13 chemistry students visited the incredible new Innovation Centre at Massey University in Albany to participate in their Chemical Cluedo workshop on June 7, 12 and 13. The workshops were run by Dr Debbie Jordan, senior tutor in chemistry and co-chair of the SNCS outreach committee at Massey University, alongside a team of incredible PhD and Honours students who volunteered their time to run a morning jam-packed with chemistry fun and learning.

During this hands-on workshop, the students collected samples to gather data from spectrometers in action. They interpreted the spectra of organic substances to solve the case of the "Murder of Professor White," which was presented in the narrative of a story. The students were well prepared for these tasks and solved the murder very efficiently. Guided tours around the Innovation Centre and campus followed up the workshops.

was awarded Best Festival Recital Programme for Lower Voices.

National selection has been announced, and our premier choirs, Cantare and Choralation, have been selected as two of the twentyfour top choirs in the country to compete in the National Finale, held in Auckland in August.

Our junior choir Nota Bella has been selected as one of the twenty-four choirs in the North Island region to compete in the Cadenza Festival, held in Rotorua in August. Cigno Voce was also named as a reserve choir.

Congratulations to everyone involved in this fantastic event –singers, directors, singing teachers, support staff and parents.

Composition competition winners

Two senior music students, Matilda Faamausili and Bella Allan-Moetaua, won first place in the New Zealand Choral Federation Choral Composition Competition. Matilda and Bella are tutored by David Hamilton, who has worked as 'Composer in Residence' for Westlake music students for many years.

Matilda's piece 'Dover Beach' won the competition and was written for mixed choir. Matilda says, "Finding out I gained first place in the competition was such an amazing feeling, especially as I was a runner-up last year. I knew at that moment that all my hard work and determination had paid off. My passion for music and composition has grown massively this year, and I plan to study music at the University of Auckland next year and major in composition. I'm grateful for the support and help from my composition tutor David Hamilton, my peers, family, and all the wonderful music teachers, especially Mrs Wilson. A huge thank you to them all."

Bella won the Te Reo Composition Competition with her piece 'Ko tangi o rū poūa', which translates to 'Song of the Swan'. She found the text in the school library with the help of Mrs Mackie and chose to use it as it fitted the school emblem. She says, "As I look back on the process of creating my piece, I spent many hours crafting it, but I would've never thought that it would end up winning. I received some encouraging comments from the adjudicator, so I am thinking about possibly continuing with composition going forward into my university study. Without my peers, HOD of music and family supporting me to do my best, I wouldn't be where I am today, so I give a big 'thank you' to them."

Westlake Girls beat the Aussies in netball friendly

The last day of Term 2 provided a netball treat for Westlake Girls, with over 60 players taking to the court as they hosted familiar Aussie foes from Genazzano College. On their fourth tour to New Zealand, the Melbourne group, led by former Wellington netballer, Sandra Kennerley, rounded out their week-long trip with games against Westlake Girls' top teams, Premier 1, Premier 2 and Year 10-1. Genazzano played in the Under 18 Wellington Representative tournament earlier in the week and then lost to the New Zealand Secondary Schools netball champions, Hamilton Girls, on their way back north.

Dark skies promised a torrential encounter with rain thundering on Westlake's Super Dome, making it near impossible to hear each other speak. Playing concurrently, Westlake's top Year 10 side faced a development side while the premier teams met Genazzano's best. The Juniors won convincingly, 42 -13, as did the Premier 2 team, which won 37-11. Westlake's top side enjoyed a closer encounter against Genazzano, winning by three goals, 3027, and the overall sporting exchange, 3-0.

The schools last met in 2018 when Genazzano hosted Westlake Girls in Melbourne. Westlake Girls hopes to return to Melbourne in 2025.

Year 12 Outdoor Ed visit

Hunua Ranges

In week 9, the Year 12 Outdoor Ed cohort set out to do an overnight stay in the Hunua Ranges to complete their leadership assessment. Students had to lead their groups through the bush to their campsite on the first day and then back out on the second day. Students planned, packed, cooked their food, and slept in tents. The weather turned out to be beautiful.

Westlake High School founders gathering

Around 50 former students from the co-ed Westlake High School (1957 – 1961) met in June 2023 at a luncheon at The Bays Club, Browns Bay, to catch up and share memories. Principals and staff from both Westlake High Schools also attended. Thanks to alumni Robin Reid and Jan Franklin for organising the event and assisting on the day. The original Westlake High School blazer, hat, gloves, and school tie were on display at the luncheon.

Chinese and Korean Nights captivate the crowds at Rangitoto College

Rangitoto College’s annual Chinese and Korean Nights are highly anticipated events at our kura. These student-led performance evenings allow ākonga to celebrate and share their culture with our school community. As always, both evenings were hugely popular, with performers taking the stage with sold-out crowds. Once those curtains opened and the night began, the amount of hard work and dedication put in by every performer could be very clearly seen.

Highlights from Korean Night included everything from doll dance to the traditional mask dance, the elegant fan dance to the masterful taekwondo, and various K-pop, rap and nanta performances. On Chinese Night, Chinese culture was brought to life through traditional performances such as the lion dance, sleeve dance, and fan dance, as well as more modern hip-hop and singing acts. Thank you and well done to all the dedicated organisers and talented performers involved.

Rosmini success at The Big Sing

In June, Rosmini Chamber Choir and Carmini Choir (Carmel and Rosmini) performed at the Auckland regional of The Big Sing competition. It was a fantastic day celebrating the wonderful musical talent across Auckland.

After a stellar performance, the Chamber Choir was awarded a place in the second-tier finale, Cadenza, which sees them compete in Rotorua at a two-day competition featuring 12 of the best secondary school choirs of the Upper North Island.

The talk of the day was Rosmini Chamber Choir’s ‘Mambo Italiano’, which was very well received by the audience. You can watch the performance by scanning this QR code.

Overseas school trips resume

Twelve senior Rosmini College students popped the Covid bubble to make the first post-pandemic school trip abroad over the holidays. The lucky students and two teachers travelled to Hawaii where they spent time in Hilo, before moving to Honolulu for seven nights staying at the University of Hawai'i.

Highlights of the trip included exploring the geological and cultural features of the Big Island, trying flight simulators at the aviation school, hearing about the latest tools for detecting and imaging exo-planets at the Subaru telescope, and exploring the Kilauea crater, petroglyphs, and a green sand beach.

It was a fantastic learning opportunity for the boys and they thoroughly enjoyed the experience!

Matariki magic at Rosmini

The rising of Matariki signals te mātahi o te tau, the Māori new year, and is a time to reflect on the past year, celebrate the present, and plan for the year ahead. The students and staff at Rosmini College were invited to celebrate Matariki in their classrooms, and it was fantastic to see almost every department get involved and implement the lessons of Matariki into their learning.

Food technology classes made sweet kumara pie and oven hangi to share. In science they made and flew kites, while English and drama classes learned about Māori mythology before writing their own stories and performances. Beautiful art was inspired by the nine Matariki stars, and in PE students were encouraged to set goals for the future. The week of celebrations ended with te reo Māori students sharing a hangi together.

Rosmini

represented

in water polo squad

Rosmini College was proud to see four of its students represent New Zealand in the U18 water polo team that defeated the touring Australian squad in Napier over the school holidays.

Mason Stewart, Matthew Leadbeater, Mathew Mihaljevich and Theo Johns all played two games in the 2:1 series victory.

Matthew and Mathew have also been selected in the New Zealand U18 squad to play in the 2023 Australian National State Championships in Sydney in September. Good luck boys!

Takapuna Grammar represents big at the Big Sing

Takapuna Grammar School has once again achieved fantastic results at the annual Big Sing Festival – New Zealand’s premiere schools choir competition. Taka Crooners, Sultans of Sing, TGS Chorale, and Leonessa were among 68 choirs that competed at the Auckland regional event. Each choir was required to perform a repertoire of three songs including one piece by a New Zealand composer, a choral art piece, and one song of the director’s choice.

All the choirs received wonderful feedback from the festival adjudication team, and Leonessa was honoured to receive the runner up award for a “Commendable Festival Recital Programme” for an Upper Voice Choir. In addition, Year 11 student Queenie Qiu won the award for “Best Piano Accompaniment” for her work with the Sultans of Sing.

Takapuna Grammar was delighted to learn that Leonessa, as well as our mixed choir, TGS Chorale, have been named among the country’s top 24 school choirs. They will both compete in the prestigious finale event which will take place in August. The two choirs have not attended the finale together since 2019, and the achievement is made more remarkable because it is a rare distinction for a single school to have two choirs selected as finalists.

The students are excited to be continuing Takapuna Grammar School’s legacy of choral excellence, and they have set their sights on repeating the success of last year’s finale when Leonessa won a gold award, as well as the Hutt City Trophy for the Best Performance of a New Zealand Composition. With the continued support and expertise of their dedicated choir directors; Ms Keani Taruia-Pora, Ms Elise Bradley, and Mx Takerei Komene,and Ms Lauren Raby, we know these exceptional students will deliver first-class performances.

International alumna returns to

inspire students

Takapuna Grammar School welcomed back Stephanie Wang (2015-2017) to speak with the students. Stephanie was a top scholar during her time at TGS and received our first ever 45 top mark in our International Baccalaureate Diploma in 2017.

Stephanie was offered university places at UCL, Cambridge, Melbourne and chose Hong Kong University to study. During her visit, Stephanie spoke with students on her time at TGS and how it influenced her and prepared her for a chosen career. She recounted experiences both at TGS and at university, highlighting challenges and the pivotal moments that shaped her path towards success.

Stephanie now works at UBS Investment Banking in Hong Kong. She emphasised the importance of taking opportunities, making choices relevant to your personal ambitions. Her words resonated deeply with the audience and one of the most inspiring aspects of Stephanie's visit was the interactive session that followed her speech.

Stephanie's appreciation of the school's nurturing environment was evident and she recalled how TGS had provided the foundation for her future accomplishments. Grant Simpkins, International Director of Students, expressed his gratitude to Stephanie for taking the time to visit.

The clock strikes ‘Midnight in Monte Carlo’

This year’s 2023 Takapuna Grammar School ball was a night of glamour and splendour. At the Ellerslie Event Centre, students and staff alike delighted in dancing, singing and awards. Students were also treated to a delicious dinner, and took full charge, posing at the photo backdrops. This year's theme was ‘Midnight in Monte Carlo’; and students looked wonderful in gorgeous gowns and intricate ensembles. This year, TGS crowned Harry Tu’isila and Malia Faulalo as King and Queen. The Prince and Princess were Maui Hitchens and Maria Valencia. The 2033 TGS ball created many unforgettable memories and was certainly a night to remember!

To view photos from the event, visit bcphotography.co.nz/takapunagrammarschoolball2023

Leonessa

Chorale

Stephanie Wang

Carmel Day Mercy Awards

At our Carmel Day Mass each year, we take the opportunity to acknowledge members of the Carmel community who have contributed to building on the tradition of our lived Core Mercy values that are based on Gospel teachings.

The award winners this year are as follows:

Community Award – Peter Beckett and Leanne Chinnery

Peter has given many years of service to the governance of Carmel. Sitting on both the school board and proprietors board, CCAL, sees him chairing and sitting on multiple sub-committees within this governance realm. Peter generously shares his financial wisdom and his focus on Special Character.

Leanne is a parent who has given generously of her time over many years, always willing to get in and do whatever needs to be done. She was a key member of the ArtFusion team. She continues to give of her time on the PTFA to coordinate and bring events to life that not only support our community, but enrich it by creating an inclusive sense of belonging through the connections established, for students and families alike.

Staff Award – Deborah Goudie and Lorna Bryce

Deb is the calm Mercy centre of Carmel. Parents and students know this from the day they begin their learning journey with enrolment. Hers is the reassuring voice on the phone, answering all the queries and questions about how the preference system works, how to complete the enrolment form and when they will be accepted. Deb is the wise counsel to our community, parents and staff alike.

Lorna is the face and voice of Mercy. She reaches out with reassurance, to help those families who need additional financial support. Our parents trust her in their time of need and she is always able to negotiate a mana-enhancing pathway when circumstances are difficult.

Leanne is a parent who has given generously of her time over many years…

Sarah Kemble, Principal, Lorna Bryce, Deborah Goudie, Leanne Chinnery, Julie Scott, Chair Carmel BOT

Retreat for Year 9 and 10 Students

Recently Year 9 and 10 students participated in two days of Special Character events. These activities are designed to address the importance of taking care of all aspects of our life to support wellbeing.

Year 10 students took part in a retreat at St Joseph’s Parish Hall as well as on-site workshops related to building connections and developing personal wellbeing strategies to support Hauora.

Year 9 students focused on the story of Mercy: the beginnings in Ireland, the arrival of the Sisters of Mercy in New Zealand, and the stories associated with the Carmel College site. There was also a focus on the House founders who are part of our Carmel story.

As part of these two days, girls also had a chance to experience different types of prayer.

Carmel music alumna receives AIMES Emerging Talent Award

Talented and dedicated North Harbour youth were celebrated recently at the AIMES annual Emerging Talent Awards; 17 individuals were acknowledged for their outstanding performances across the fields of arts, innovation, music, sport and service to the community.

Among the winners was Carmel music alumna, Madeleine Xiao. She won an AIMES scholarship award ($3000) for emerging talent. Since leaving Carmel College in 2021 she has continued to pursue excellence in everything she does. Madeleine has been selected to attend the Adam Chamber Music Festival in Nelson, working with the New Zealand String Quartet, and she also played Chopin’s Piano Concerto No.1 in E minor with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, competing in the finale of the National Concerto Competition where she placed third.

Madeleine is currently a second year BMus music student, majoring in classical performance at the University of Auckland.

Ageless safeguard: Enduring Power of Attorney

Sarah and Josh are in their mid-thirties. Like most people their age, they had travelled extensively, living in London for a number of years, before returning home to New Zealand to start a family. Sarah had been in investment banking in the UK and Josh was a school teacher. The property market had shifted a bit in the years they had been away, but with the big money earned by Sarah in the UK, they were able to afford a large and spacious home only a couple of blocks away from the beach.

After taking advice from their lawyer, Sarah and Josh set up a trust to own their family home. Sarah was taking on some directorships of companies. They were also concerned that if one of them died, their assets would be protected both for the survivor and their children. At the same time, they made wills appointing guardians of their children and stating that all their assets would go to the trust if one or both of them died. They prepared a memorandum of guidance for the trustees of their trust and also saw their insurance broker about putting in place some life insurance.

Basically, death was covered. If one of them died, the survivor would have a large sum of money and assets all nicely protected in a trust. Enduring powers of attorney were mentioned, but Sarah and Josh thought this was something they could do in the future. Sarah’s grandma had just appointed Sarah’s father to act as her attorney – there was plenty of time for them to get enduring powers of attorney organised later.

Less than a year after returning to New Zealand, Josh woke one morning unable to speak or use the left side of his body. He had suffered a premature stroke. Sarah and Josh soon found out it is not uncommon for young people to suffer strokes and other ailments which mean that they are not able to function properly. Sarah and Josh had planned well for what happened if one of them died, but had not dealt with the situation where one of them might lose capacity.

Sarah now found herself in the position of not being able to deal with a number of things that Josh used to deal with. Everyone was asking her for a copy of an enduring power of attorney she didn’t have. The costs of going to court to get property orders to manage Josh’s affairs were expensive, but Sarah was left with few options. She quickly learned that not only old people needed to worry about enduring powers of attorney – they are for everyone.

Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law

09 883

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.

The protection of assets that we have all worked so hard to acquire is an important consideration for most people.

If you have a will, but not assigned anyone to act as your Enduring Power of Attorney, you could inadvertently be putting your assets at risk.

An Enduring Power of Attorney will look after both your property and personal care and welfare should you become incapacitated to make your own decisions while you’re still alive.

If you have not put in place an Enduring Power of Attorney, contact Tammy McLeod or one of the Trust Team for specialist advice. 09

Knowing your breakeven point

When times are tough and money woes are growing, it is good to take a step back and consider what the company needs to make and do to stay afloat. Often this consideration starts by thinking about what the company’s breakeven point is and what levers are available to help turn a loss-making company around and to start generating a profit again.

The breakeven point is essentially when a company generates sufficient income to cover all expenses. The company will be in a state of equilibrium where the company is not making a profit, nor is it be making a loss.

For a business making a single product or offering a single service, the breakeven point is best expressed as a unit measure to determine how many units must be sold for the company to break even. This formula will be taking the total fixed costs of the company (i.e., rent, salaries, and other fixed overhead costs) divided by the sales price per unit less the variable cost per unit (i.e., the cost of goods sold per unit). The difference between the sales price per unit and variable cost per unit can be viewed as the gross profit generated per unit. For example, assuming the following for a company:

• Total fixed costs = $100,000

• Sales price per unit = $100

• Variable costs per unit = $20

So the calculation for the breakeven point for the company would be $100,000 divided by $80 ($100 sales price less $20 variable costs). The result being 1,250 units. This formula could be expanded to include the desired net profit the company would like to be achieve. Just add the desired profit number with the total fixed costs and then divided by the gross profit per unit to derive the number of units you need to sell to achieve the desired net profit.

For a multiple product or service company, you could calculate the breakeven point by taking the average gross profit margin and divide this by the total fixed costs to calculate the total sales you need to achieve before the company breaks even.

In doing this, there needs to be some consideration of the sales mix required to achieve the targeted sales. This can be tested by summing the total of the number of units required to be sold multiplied by the gross profit per unit to arrive at the expected gross profit from those sales. This gross profit figure should be high enough to cover your total fixed costs.

Once the above analysis has been completed, consideration needs to be given in regard to what levers are available to either help reach the breakeven point or to generate a profit. Example of these levers include:

Fixed costs

Generally, the largest fixed costs tend to be premises rent and salaries and wages. It may not always be possible to reduce these costs for various reasons. In terms of premises rent, consider the ease of moving premises, subletting existing redundant premises space, or subletting the whole premises and moving to more cost-effective premises. In terms of salaries and wages, any cost reductions here are often by making the unpleasant decision to let excess staff capacity go.

Variable costs

This would be an opportune time to review whether there is any room to alter ordering patterns to obtain better pricing from suppliers. (i.e., increase order size to take advantage of order quantity discounts and maximise return on freight space and costs, or order less but more frequently to reduce storage costs). Alternatively, evaluate whether suppliers are still delivering appropriate value for money product or service or if there are similar but cheaper options out there. Part of this evaluation includes weighing up whether there are any associated costs of changing suppliers as these associated costs could be prohibitive.

Similarly, also review your current processes to identify areas for improvement which will make processes more efficient. You will also need to evaluate the pay-back period for any capital expenditure required to ensure this is an appropriate decision to make.

Sales price/total sales

There are several methods to increase income:

• Increase the sales price per unit charged,

• Offer unit bundle deals or other complementary goods or services to increase the average sales transaction size and sales dollar value,

• Increase the frequency of repeat sales, and/or

• Increase the number of customers.

It is always good to consider the Pareto principle when evaluating the levers available and to focus your initial efforts on the vital few levers which will give the greatest returns. Some of these levers may be uncomfortable decisions but will help ensure the company stays afloat and sails into the future.

For more information or if you have any questions, please contact a member of our advisory team today.

Visit: bellinghamwallace.co.nz

Accountancy with Mike Atkinson of Bellingham Wallace.

For a business making a single product or offering a single service, the breakeven point is best expressed as a unit measure to determine how many units must be sold for the company to break even.

By Aimee Penman (Lawyer).

Aimee joined the Schnauer and Co team in February 2023. Aimee is passionate about a career in family and employment law, and brings to the role her love for people. Aimee enjoys connecting with clients and guiding them through some of the trickiest times they will likely face.

Spring into a shared future

Most of us know the giddiness the preliminary stages of a relationship bring as you excitedly engage in discussions of future plans involving travel, buying your first home together or starting a family. For Wiremu and Sarah, spring means returning home from a stint overseas and thinking about putting a deposit down on their first home together before they start their family.

Wiremu owns a property that he bought before he met Sarah, and he wants to use the equity from that property towards the deposit. He is excited about taking this next step with Sarah, but in the back of his mind he is worried about what could happen if things don’t go as expected and he and Sarah separate, like their close friends have recently.

Meanwhile Sarah’s parents have offered to give Sarah $50,000 as a contribution towards the deposit. Sarah’s parents have told her that they do not expect to be repaid, but they would like for Sarah to receive the full $50,000 back from the sale proceeds in the event that the house is sold.

Both Wiremu and Sarah have discussed Wiremu’s other property and their unequal contributions towards the purchase, and both agree that they wouldn’t want to take what the other has contributed. This is a good first step, and while none of us wants to contemplate the worst, having a written agreement (often called a section 21 or Contracting Out Agreement) means that should the worst happen, everyone is on the same page about what the agreement or understanding was. Without one, everything is divided equally in the event of a separation regardless of what was said or agreed at the time.

Ringfencing is something that can be done to protect specific assets that exist at the time of the agreement or come to exist later if the ringfenced property is sold and a new asset purchased. All other property that you acquire during your relationship can be dealt with as relationship property and shared equally.

Sarah and Wiremu have agreed they want to protect Wiremu’s property and each other’s contribution in the event that things don’t go to plan. To do this they approach a family lawyer who drafts an initial agreement based on ringfencing the property and their initial contributions and setting out their understanding of what will happen if they separate. However, before they can sign, they each need to be independently advised as to the effect and implications of what they are agreeing to since they are seeking an unequal division of relationship property should it be necessary.

As Sarah and Wiremu have no intention of separating they have left everything to each other in their wills. However, they know that if for any reason they separate in the future, they have clearly protected their initial contributions.

If you have any questions or would like advice on any relationship property matters, our Family Team at Schnauer and Co would be happy to assist.

Schnauer & Co,

1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna

09 486 0177

schnauer.com

The benefits of a middle school for students

Until recently the concept of a middle school was often only referenced in American television shows and was not a model of schooling familiar to many New Zealanders. Most reading this would have, like me, bridged the gap between primary and secondary school with two years of intermediate school. While most of us did okay under this still-prevalent model of schooling, I hasten to guess that many of us did not thrive.

Middle school in its truest sense runs from Year 7 through to the end of Year 10 and Kristin has operated with this model for more than 20 years. These middle school years, between the ages of around 10 to 15, are what many in psychology and education refer to as the second window of opportunity, as they are second only in cognitive growth to infancy. While teenagers can get a bad rap at times, at Kristin Middle School we understand the powerful impact the right environment can have in shaping a student’s life during this formative period where the brain is quite literally pruning and shaping itself for the future. We understand that this crossroad between being a child and becoming a young adult is a crucial, formative and exciting time and if the school environment honours this, then students are set up for future success.

At Kristin Middle School we continuously seek to understand what is required to help students of this age and stage thrive. We then build our programmes around this knowledge. Research tells us that students need variety, choice, stability, community and a sense of autonomy and power over their environment. So how does this look in reality? It means students in Year 7 and Year 8 have the benefit of both a nurturing homeroom environment as well as being taught subjects such as science and the arts by specialist teachers to offer both variety and academic rigour. It means our Year 9 and Year 10 students have a vast array of optional subjects such as outdoor education, philosophy or design technology (to name but a few) to choose from to supplement their core curriculum. It involves staff working with small groups of students to help them achieve their goals and support their personalised progress. It necessitates education beyond the classroom in the form of real-life experiences, often designed by students themselves. It means authentic, altruistic leadership programmes and co-curricular programmes that allow students to find and develop their passions, which we know is key to fulfilment and self-confidence.

With all of the above in mind, it’s easy to see why I am so passionate about not just middle schooling but Kristin Middle School in particular. I genuinely believe that we offer an experience for our adolescents like no other and it excites me to help facilitate such an important time in their development.

These middle school years, between the ages of around 10 to 15, are what many in psychology and education refer to as the second window of opportunity…

Goodbye to the North Shore Historical Society

By David Verran

My parents and I became members of the North Shore Historical Society in the very early 1990s, and at that time there were over a hundred members at meetings. Over the years we listened to memorable and enthusiastic speakers and went on interesting bus trips around the greater Auckland area, as well as Thames, the Coromandel Peninsula and Northland. Sometimes there were two or three full buses. Some trips extended further around the North and South Islands, as well as visits to Norfolk Island, Australia and even China.

During the 1990s, the meeting venue changed from the Mary Thomas Centre to what is now the Taitamariki Hall in Auburn Street and then from the late 1990s to the Senior Citizen's Hall next to Takapuna Library. My late mother served on their committee for a few years and then I was its president from 2006 to 2010. My wife Susan was then president from 2010 to 2012 (the only woman president) and the current President John Webster has been in office since then. Over the years I have seen many other office holders come and go, and a host of members. Most have now moved on or sadly died.

The Society was originally formed in 1976, but had been from at least 1974 the North Shore Branch of the Auckland Historical Society. Geographically it covered the old Takapuna City Council area, but also welcomed members from outside those rather restrictive boundaries. However, we are now in process of winding up the North Shore Historical Society, with a maximum of 15 members now attending meetings. The Society gave up on organising trips some years ago, due to insufficient interest, and the number of available speakers has also lessened.

The common theme of an interest in North Shore history, and history in general, has led to many society projects. These included funding plaques at both St Joseph's and The Lake House Arts Centre, along with one featuring the historic trams which is to be reinstalled in Waiwharariki/Anzac Square when work there is completed. The Society has also funded awards at some local schools for history

students, the book 'Takapuna; people and places' (1989), technology at Takapuna Library, as well as regional newspaper, photographic and archival conservation.

The preservation of oral histories was also important to the Society, with a number of speakers having their talks recorded and those tapes lodged with Takapuna Library. There are 125 such talks listed on Auckland Libraries' list of oral histories on Kura Heritage Collections Online.

This column is to pay tribute to all those who have been a part of the Society over the years, both office holders and members. We had our last Annual General Meeting in May and in late June had the second of two General Meetings as required to wind up the society. We are now dealing with the disposal of remaining assets and liaising with the Registrar of Incorporated Societies.

We are also encouraging our members to become more active with the Devonport Historical and Museum Society, the Birkenhead Heritage Society and its museum at Farrington House in Mahara Avenue, and the Torbay Historical Society with its Vaughan Homestead.

david.verran@xtra.co.nz

T3277 courtesy of Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections, this photograph from Takapuna's 75th Jubilee Christmas Parade is dated 3 December 1988.

By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager

Country music, cake decorating and more

Did you know that you can hire out the Kennedy Park Observation Post (Beach Road, Castor Bay) on the weekends for children’s birthday parties or family gatherings (daytime only, no alcohol, limited to 35 people)? Dates book out quickly so email us if you are interested and we will see if the date you require is available. You can also hire it during the week (daytime only) for meetings, workshops etc.

If you are interested in cake decorating, why not join the North Shore Cake Decorating Club?

By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability

I.Lead and the Whaikaha partnership

The past few weeks have been quiet but the Yes and I.Lead team has still been working hard with programmes starting new intakes and with I.Lead travelling.

Last month some of the I.Lead team were invited to attend the Whaikaha Partnership Hui in Wellington. The reasoning behind the hui was to gather a variety of disability organisations around New Zealand, to have their say moving forward. This was also a great way to reflect on the one-year anniversary of the launch of Whaikaha, seeing how they are wanting the Ministry to continue develop. The hui was over a two-day period, and consisted of workshop activities and networking. The team was able to engage in important conversations and promote the work I.Lead does to other organisations. The team felt honoured and privileged to be invited to the hui, to be part of a passionate and enthusiastic discussion.

If you are interested in cake decorating, why not join the North Shore Cake Decorating Club? Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month (except January and school holidays) at the Kennedy Park Observation Post. New Members are welcome. Contact Gail Guyatt on 027 737 3188.

Interested in petanque? Contact Sue Stiff, secretary of the Kennedy Park Petanque Club. Enjoyable and friendly atmosphere – age no concern. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1pm—3pm or Sunday mornings, 10am—12noon. Players are welcome to turn up on the day.

North Shore Country Music Club – Sunnynook Community Centre – Meet at 7pm fortnightly on a Sunday in the Tawa Room (main hall). These are fun nights with guest artists and you are invited to join in. For more information contact Jim on 021 267 3135. 13 and 27 August, 10 and 24 September 2023.

Zumba Classes – Sunnynook Community Centre – Mondays and Wednesdays at 5.30pm in the Tawa Room (main hall). For more information contact Tracey on 021 113 6203 or email: zumba.tracey@gmail.com.

For more information about any of the classes / groups that meet at the centre please check our website.

Kind regards, Bronwyn Bound Centre Manager

sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz

office@sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz.

Continuing on the theme of networking, the I.Lead team met with the Minister for Community and Voluntary Sector, Priyanca Radhakrishnan. It was great to be able to meet the Minister and the team was able to discuss with her the work I.Lead does for young people. The team heard what the Minister does and the impact of her work in the community sector. We are very grateful for the Minister's ability to provide some time in her busy schedule, and we are looking forward to continue growing our networks.

yesdisability.org.nz, ilead.org.nz Facebook- facebook.com/ileadconferencenz Instagram- instagram.com/i.leadnz/

The team was able to engage in important conversations and promote the work I.Lead does to other organisations.

Inaugural slam poetry event

By Adriana Tobin, co-chair of Younite

Kia ora all!! As we pass the middle of the year I’m sure it’s been a busy time for all as we really are in the thick of this year. For Younite especially it’s been a very busy time full of change and very exciting events!

On Monday 3 July we hosted our first-ever slam poetry event. Led by our community sub-committee leader Theo Powell, the event was a huge success with around 40 people attending. We had several talented rangatahi brave the mic and speak, and inspired by others, many gave impromptu performances from raps to English pieces written for school. The room felt safe as we explored several deep and heavy topics throughout the night as we all listened with intent and respect. There were however also performances whose main objective was to bring joy and did not fail to bring the laughs. All in all it was an incredible night full of friends, comfort and clicking, and we’d like to thank everyone who came along to watch, and a special thank you to all the wonderful performers. Keep an eye out for our next open mic night :)

One event down, another to go! Our Rangatahi Art Exhibition will be running from 30 July to 10 August at the Lakehouse Arts Centre. Submissions for artwork have officially closed; thank you to all the talented artists who submitted their work. We would like to encourage all of you to come along to our exhibition to support our local talented rangatahi! From 30 July to 10 August, you can pop in at any time to view the artwork and purchase pieces that capture your eye. Our grand opening night was on Sunday 30 July, filled with performances by youth artists and yummy kai. :)

Younite also attended two Devonport-Takapuna Local Board workshops during school holidays to pilot a non-voting youth seat on the board. Younite members Tate Agnew and Lisa Kim asked questions of Council staff about community leases and the Urban Ngahere Strategy. If you’re interested in representing youth voice on the local board please get in touch.

Make sure you and your friends do not miss out on our exciting events!! For any questions, queries regarding our events or the work we do, feel free to reach us at younitechair@gmail.com, or contact us through instagram @younitedt.

By Shore Junction’s Youth Development Specialist Josh Martin

How far we have come

In the beating heart of our vibrant community lies a cornerstone of youthful vigour and dynamism - Shore Junction. From its humble beginnings three years ago, it has grown and flourished into a bustling hive of activity, now boasting a 2,500-strong youth membership. As I reflect on this incredible journey and prepare for the next exciting chapter of my life, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride for what we have accomplished together.

Shore Junction has transformed from an empty building into a bustling hub for youth in our community. This metamorphosis has been shaped not only by the physical construction of the space but more importantly by the myriad relationships that have been built. We have nurtured a truly diverse environment, welcoming Māori, Pasifika, rainbow, and disabled youth into the heart of our community. The warm sense of belonging, of being understood, and being supported, this is what we've been striving to offer each young person walking through our doors.

Notable triumphs have been the growth of our membership, the successful launch of the Shore Junction records, our dynamic discord server, and Shore Junction becoming a safe and warm environment for the diverse communities of rangatahi we welcome every day. Shore Junction exists to provide a springboard for our youth, amplifying their voices and talents, allowing them to connect, engage, and create in ways that are relevant in our digital age.

None of this would have been possible without the dedication of our staff (Conin, Annaliese, Connor and Ashe). I am in awe of their relentless energy, creativity, and commitment. Special mention goes to Sonia, whose visionary leadership and sheer tenacity have helped to shape the centre's mission and purpose. They have truly given life to our shared vision.

I am immensely proud of what we have achieved, particularly in our collaboration with external partners. Significant partnerships such as those with Sarah Thorne at ANCAD, who has been wildly supportive from the get-go, Emma Helmich from YouthTown, the YMCA and the countless other youth service providers we’re connected to have added tremendous value to our centre.

As I prepare to pass the baton, I am filled with hope and optimism for the future of Shore Junction. There is so much more to come for this vibrant community hub. While it is bittersweet to bid farewell, I eagerly anticipate the next iteration of Shore Junction, confident that it will continue to nurture and inspire our rangatahi.

My heartfelt thanks go out to all the staff, every stakeholder, every supporter, and every young person who has been part of this journey (Special shout-outs to our day one youth: Talei, Lizzie, Caitlin, Laura, Xavier and Kiera). It is the collective effort, the shared vision, and the unwavering belief in our youth that has made Shore Junction what it is today.

I’d like to leave you with a whakatauki which is the compass in the way I have led as the community and youth development director these past three years; “He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata! He tangata! He tangata!” – What is the most important thing in the world? It is people! It is people! It is people!

Mauri ora.

shorejunction.nz

Lisa Yuan and Adriana Tobin

By Richard Thorne, Devonport Business Improvement District Manager

Greetings from the peninsula

Trustees, staff, and members of the community were bitterly disappointed to learn, on Tuesday 18, that the Devonport Takapuna Local Board was indeed cutting all funding for the Trust. And, it was not prepared to work with the Trust to deliver the new objectives the Local Board was wanting to target.

Much was made of the financial constraints within which the Local Board was having to plan, but, as it turned out, the Local Board has assigned $98,000 to its new Devonport-based community activator role, when the Trust Board had already budgeted to receive considerably less than that funding from the Local Board for the 2024 financial year.

The Local Board has embarked on a social media campaign to sell its story, but the fact that there was never an opportunity for a real, significant face-to-face dialogue with people who had contributed enormously to this community over many years was extremely unfortunate. The Local Board’s winding down of its relationship with the Trust makes it impossible for the Trust to run the community events and activities that have been so much enjoyed by the peninsula community.

This all happened during a wonderful Matariki period on the peninsula, during which many, many opportunities were offered by many groups to the peninsula community to engage in te āo Māori and to learn a little more about tikanga in the context of waiata, kapa haka, sharing kai and karakia.

Full credit goes to Manukura Ngahiwi Walker and Māreikura Terehia Walker, who helped lead the way, and organised a number of the activities, with the support of ngā matua, Zane Catterall and Natanahira Te Pona, and behind it all, the advice and guidance of kaumatua, Danny Watson and John Retimana.

Of course, Bayswater School started it all off with its annual Matariki celebration. Then the other activities included a Depot Artspace Matariki Exhibition, ‘Āhuru Mōwai’, a lantern-making at Devonport Community House, followed by a beautiful hikoi to the summit of Takarunga, lantern-making at the Navy Museum, and another beautiful hikoi to the summit of Maungauika, a celebration in Windsor Reserve with performance by the Te Hau Kapua Kapa Haka Rōpu, a community kapa haka group led by Ngahiwi and Terehia, a concert at the ferry building on 14 July by the New Zealand and Auckland Youth Symphonic Winds Bands; followed on Saturday by a schools kapa haka presentation. Planting days took place with Restoring Takarunga Hauraki, a community hangi was enjoyed at Devonport Community House, a really enjoyable family Matariki workshop took place at Harmony Hall. There was a book launch at Devonport Library - Hira Nathan’s ‘Whakawhetai Gratitude’, a lovely Matariki day at The Rose Centre with a delicious hangi lunch, and more.

Many of these activities were supported by the Trust’s own events budget, along with funding the Trust had gained for the purpose. In that regard, thanks go to the Local Board, to the Devonport Business Association, and to Pub Charity.

With the likely winding down of the Trust, it will be up to this community to ensure that these opportunities survive.

For event communications, email abby@dpt.nz

For general enquiries, etc, email nigel@dpt.nz

For events information, go to dpt.nz

You don’t need to be a student of New Zealand music to know that Devonport has long been a hotbed of creative musical talent, and (formerly) home to some of Tāmaki Makaurau’s most valued live performance venues in The Masonic and The Esplanade hotels.

As with too many similarly central social venues, creeping urbanisation eventually robbed the area, and future generations of music fans, of those popular local venues, but the past month has shown that live music is very much errm, alive and well in Devonport.

It was brilliant to see locally-connected rock band Racing sell out its early July gig at the Devonport RSA hall upstairs on Victoria St.

Somewhere on the far side of their musical moon lies the Auckland Youth Symphonic Band, which performed inside the Devonport ferry terminal on the Matariki public holiday. Under the baton of Michael Jamieson about 20 young musicians brought their instruments across the harbour to help us celebrate the occasion and successfully brighten a rather drizzly Friday.

Another exotic musical component of Devonport’s Matariki celebrations took place the following Saturday night at The Vic, our historic movie theatre that conveniently doubles as a luxurious seated live performance venue. The Helium Project included 10 talented musicians producing emotive synth- and string-laden ambient soundscapes. “Our aim is to create a sonic landscape that transports the audience into the stories behind the star cluster and truly celebrate Matariki,” explains project creator Nick Edgar.

The Devonport Flagstaff has recently initiated a very handy online guide to events happening locally over the weekend ahead. According to ‘Devonport this weekend’ the same Saturday saw three of our public houses also contributing to the local live music scene. The Kestrel featured folk/pop musician Jaz Paterson, The Patriot served up covers band Strange Brew, while Tiny Triumphs had both pop-rock band Jailmaker and the Re-Animators on a double bill.

Four live music options on one night, and all within 800m of one another! That’s quite some musical smorgasbord, reminiscent even of those good ol’ days when the ‘Splade and Masonic were regularly bringing the country’s top music acts to the North Shore.

Devonport – your next party night destination!

Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz

Devonport Community News for this month with Nigel Bioletti, Trust Manager, Devonport Peninsula Trust

Devonport village – alive with the sound of music

Do you have this pest plant in your backyard?

August pest plant of the month: Jasmine

Jasmine is a climbing vine that is capable of outcompeting and shading out native seedlings. It is also shade tolerant, and eventually creates thick mats throughout the understory of indigenous forests and prohibits natural regeneration. Jasmine is mainly spread by fragments dumped in green waste that quickly grow into large infestations. It usually flowers around springtime and it's best to start controlling it now.

If you notice jasmine on your property, take action as soon as possible:

• Dig out small infestations, trying to remove all parts of the root system – jasmine can regrow from stem fragments that are left in the ground.

• Hand release off native trees where possible. Make a cut at the base of the stem and apply a thin film of Met Gel to both ends of the cut stem. Large vines can be left on the tree after applying Met Gel to both ends of the cut stem.

• For large infestations and ground cover, foliar spray with 0.5g/l metsulfuron +15ml/l glyphosate + penetrant. Always wear appropriate personal protection equipment and read the manufacturer’s label for guidelines and recommendations. It's best to spray just before it starts flowering.

• Follow up in three months to reapply herbicide and ensure all regrowth has died (mature jasmine infestations usually need multiple applications).

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 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.

Louise Benson, Head of Property Management Barfoot and Thompson Milford

Trying to sell your home? Consider renting it out instead

The housing sales market has been slow. You may have been trying to sell your home but not seeing either the demand or the price you believe it is worth. Have you considered renting it for two years to capitalise on the strong rental demand while also allowing the sales market time to recover?

It may not have been something you would have considered; however using an experienced property manager to ensure your home is professionally cared for will, in most cases, outweigh the cost of their services. Besides rental return to offset your mortgage, you may also be looking at capital gain. As discussed in last month’s article, rental prices have increased by 20% since 2018 and this is being further influenced by a large increase in tenants actively looking, compared with the limited number of properties available for rent. If you would like to delve deeper, contact us for a free rental appraisal and we can advise on all that is involved.

By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd

Preparing to sell a house with spring approaching

Bayleys residential teams have witnessed a significant uplift in enquiries, the highest levels in the past three months, which we believe is a result of astute buyers now perceiving that we are at, or if not, close to the bottom of the market.

Preparing to sell a house with spring approaching, and a market starting to heat up, involves several essential steps to ensure a successful and attractive sale. Here are some important tasks that Yan would like to recommend that vendors should consider before listing their property:

Property inspection and repairs: Conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify any issues that may affect the sale. Address any necessary repairs, such as leaky roofs, plumbing, heating, electrical or cosmetic touch-ups.

Clean and declutter: A clean and clutter-free home is more appealing to potential buyers. Deep clean the entire house, organise belongings and remove personal items to allow buyers to envision themselves living there.

Kerb appeal: The first impression matters, so invest in improving the kerb appeal of your property. Ensure the front yard is wellmaintained, jazz up the entrance and add fresh plants or flowers to enhance the overall look.

Energy efficiency and home improvements: Consider making energy-efficient upgrades, as they can be appealing to ecoconscious buyers and potentially increase the property’s value.

Market research: Understand the local real estate market.

With strategic planning, vendors can increase the chances of attracting a greater number of potential buyers and therefore achieve a successful sale at a favourable price. We are expecting more activity in spring... why not list earlier and get a head start on the competition?

As a special offer for Channel Mag readers this month, we can manage your property for 0% fees for the first 3 months* This will enable you to sit back, relax and leave the work to us. We look after your home like it’s ours; we pride ourselves on taking a firm but fair approach with our tenants to ensure they are looking after the property to our high standards. This doesn’t mean that problems will never occur, and through knowledge and experience, we have developed effective strategies to deal with these so you won’t have to!! Contact me to learn more. *Conditions apply.

Testimonial from a happy owner:

"Barfoot & Thompson was our company of choice to manage the renting of our residence for one year and then its sale by auction. The services rendered by the property manager for the rental period were excellent, as was that of the salesperson. In both cases we felt our needs and perspectives were well understood and met. Both the property manager and salesperson were professional, friendly, efficient and responsive. We could not have asked for more."

Louise Benson, Head of Property Management

Barfoot and Thompson Milford

027 431 9536

milford.rental@barfoot.co.nz

Yan Davies, a long-time North Shore local, has amassed a wide network of quality clients and superior knowledge of the area. A straight talker who enjoys an open communication style and ethical business model. She works hard for her clients, driven by a sense of duty to provide a high level of service. She holds a Masters degree in business and administration, and speaks English and Chinese fluently.

Yan 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

唯一华人中介@Takapuna 分行

WeChat ID: YanDavies021585590

Conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify any issues that may affect the sale.

*Special offer for Channel Mag readers...

Besides rental return to offset your mortgage, you may also be looking at capital gain.

Enhancing your deck with glass balustrades

Seven key considerations

Building a deck is an exciting endeavour that can elevate the outdoor living space of your home. To create a truly exceptional deck, it's crucial to carefully consider various factors before diving into the project. Among the many choices available, glass balustrades have gained popularity for their modern and sleek appeal. In this article, we'll explore seven essential considerations to keep in mind when incorporating glass balustrades into your deck design.

Safety first: Safety is paramount when it comes to deck railings. Glass balustrades offer a transparent and secure barrier that ensures the wellbeing of deck occupants while providing unobstructed views of the surroundings. These robust and durable structures are designed to withstand the elements, offering peace of mind.

Aesthetics: Glass balustrades add a touch of sophistication to any deck. With their seamless and elegant appearance, they effortlessly complement diverse architectural styles, creating an open and spacious ambiance. The transparent nature of glass balustrades preserves scenic vistas, allowing you to fully appreciate your outdoor space.

Embracing natural light: Integrating glass balustrades into your deck design enables ample natural light to permeate the area, illuminating both the deck and adjacent indoor spaces. This feature is particularly advantageous if your deck is attached to a room with large windows or sliding glass doors, fostering a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors.

Low maintenance: Compared to other railing materials, glass balustrades require minimal upkeep. Unlike wood, they don't require regular painting or staining. Cleaning can be as simple as using a glass cleaner and a soft cloth. However, it's worth noting that glass surfaces may reveal fingerprints and smudges more prominently.

Weather resilience: Glass balustrades are engineered to withstand various weather conditions. Crafted from tempered or laminated glass, they possess exceptional strength and resistance to breakage. Additionally, they are treated with UV-resistant coatings or finishes, preserving their colour and integrity over time.

Privacy considerations: While glass balustrades provide transparency, it's essential to consider your privacy needs. If privacy is a concern, you can explore options like frosted or textured glass, which partially obscure the view while still allowing natural light to permeate.

Professional installation and budget: The installation of glass balustrades requires specialised knowledge and expertise. It is vital to engage the services of professional contractors with experience in working with glass railing systems to ensure a proper installation. The cost of glass balustrades will vary based on factors such as deck size, design complexity, and the specific type of glass chosen.

Conclusion: Enhancing your deck with glass balustrades brings undeniable charm and modernity to your outdoor space. By considering the seven key factors outlined above, you can ensure the successful integration of glass balustrades into your deck design. Remember to consult with experienced professionals to make informed decisions regarding safety, aesthetics, maintenance, privacy, and budget. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a remarkable deck that combines functionality and visual appeal, providing years of enjoyment for you and your loved ones.

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

COL LIERS NORTH SHORE

YOUR SALES & LEASING TEAM

JIMMY O’BRIEN General Manager | Director

M 021 979 001

E jimmy.o’brien@colliers.com

JANET MARSHALL Director | Commercial

M 021 684 775

E janet.marshall@colliers.com

MATT PRENTICE Director | Industrial Sales & Leasing

M 021 464 904

E matt.prentice@colliers.com

SHONEET CHAND Director | Investment Sales

M 021 400 765

E shoneet.chand@colliers.com

RYAN DE ZWART Associate Director Industrial Sales & Leasing

M 021 575 001

E ryan.dezwart@colliers.com

We are now into Q3 and looking at the prospects for the remainder of 2023. It is likely that activity will increase from the levels witnessed earlier in the year. Investors are still cautious, but the Reserve Bank has removed much of this uncertainty with no increase in the OCR for the first time in almost two years. North Shore overall office vacancy from our Q2 research was at 5.5% and industrial vacancy at 2.9%. We expect an upward trend in investor confidence and a continuation of high levels of leasing activity. Recent leasing enquiry particularly for premises over 1,000+ sqm and the demand for retail hospitality reflects this upward trend.

rubbish clean-up along the local shoreline, and to do our part for the continued environmental wellbeing of our beaches.

JACK TUSON Associate Director Industrial Sales & Leasing

M 027 448 1148

E jack.tuson@colliers.com

MIKE RYAN Industrial Sales & Leasing

M 021 402 461

E mike.ryan@colliers.com

The North Shore office was pleased to have participated in the National Volunteer Week and Colliers Gives programme with a

NICK RECORDON

Commercial Sales & Leasing

M 027 230 6751

E nick.recordon@colliers.com

Janet Marshall, Colliers North Shore

Accelerating success.

TAKAPUNA

TROPHY OFFICE - 775 SQM - GREAT VALUE

An opportunity is available to take 775 sqm of high quality modern office with existing furniture (50+ desks).

The layout configuration is exceptional and offers video conferencing facilities, large board rooms, meeting rooms and open plan area.

For Lease - 15 Huron Street, Takapuna Janet Marshall 021 684 775

Accelerating success.

For Lease

94 Apollo Drive, Albany

200 sqm or 850 sqm 'A' grade office in popular Apollo Drive

Relocate your head office to the North Shore’s only 4-star Green Build rated office building. High profile signage on this standalone building ensures your brand exposure. Only two tenancies available: 200 sqm or 850 sqm with exclusive deck area. These offices will surpass all other premises offering high specifications.

The Green Star rating fosters a smarter building with more resource efficiency, energy and water savings, lower running costs and a healthy work environment for everyone.

Call for further information or to arrange an inspection.

Janet Marshall 021 684 775

colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67016934

WHY LEASE WHEN YOU CAN OWN: 270 SQM ALBANY OFFICE

Great opportunity to own your own premises. Excellent location and within good proximity to plenty of good cafes and retail nearby. Located only minutes from the motorways, East Coast Bays and Albany mall. Vendor invites you to make an offer.

Features:

• Vacant possession

• Popular location, excellent amenities nearby Premises of this calibre are in high demand

• Minutes from the motorways and Albany Mall

• Sole Agency

colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67021249

Accelerating success.

Janet

021 684 775

Ryan 021 402 461 mike.ryan@colliers.com

For Lease - 51 Corinthian Drive, Albany

GENEROUS INCENTIVES OFFERED - BUILDING NAMING RIGHTS

Options from 330 sqm to 1,585 sqm

Excellent opportunity to relocate your head office to this well-known standalone building. Great profile from the Northern Motorway. Neighbours include Westpac, a pharmacy, and a range of medical tenants.

Only three minutes to excellent cafes/retail and Westfield Mall.

Various options available from 330 sqm up to 1,585 sqm - something to suit everyone!

This Landlord is keen to assist you with your requirements, as the incoming Tenant you could have naming rights if you so wished, as well as a customised fit out may be considered.

For further information and/or to view by appointment only please contact Janet Marshall.

colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67015111

Marshall 021 684 775

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!).

It was indeed the final of finals!

Oh, what a wonderful day it was in Devonport in mid-July. If ever I had confidence in club rugby, it was that day. Five thousand people gathered around the hallowed fields at Vauxhall Road where the North Shore Rugby Club have been playing for 150 years. It was indeed the final of finals: the undefeated North Shore team versus archrivals Takapuna, on a cloudy, sometimes sunny, sometimes slightly drizzly typical July afternoon.

Unfortunately a couple of hours earlier, the North Shore Premier 2 team had to take the long hazardous journey up Lake Road to play an undefeated Takapuna Premier 2 in the North Harbour Premier 2 Finals. Slowly the news came through by telegram that the North Shore team were up against Takapuna at their home fields. The North Shore Prem 2s were leading with 15 minutes to go, with a very tight final. Then the news came through that they had won, - they had beaten the undefeated Takapuna side. What a great day for the team captain Niwa Whatuira playing his final game in the green and white jersey.

… I would like to congratulate the Border rugby team from Waverley, for winning their fourth consecutive club rugby championship, a feat that has never been achieved before in the 100 year history of the Whanganui Club Rugby competition.

Meanwhile, on the hallowed turf of Vauxhall Road, with the wind blowing the leaves on the plane trees and the ghosts of many past North Shore players lurking in the backdrops of the grounds, the undefeated North Shore Premier side, ably led by Alex Woonton and Edgar Tu-Inukuafe, not to mention the brilliant Brad McNaughten controlling the game from half back, emerged from the changing sheds at the northern end of the grounds, as did the Takapuna side. Five thousand people surrounded the field without a red badge security guard in sight. What a game it was; 6-3 at half time to North Shore, with both sides exchanging penalty kicks. The final score, much to the elation of the parochial North Shore crowd, was 25-10 to North Shore. The clubrooms rocked and rolled late into the night, with one

of the most memorable club days I’ve ever experienced in my 60-plus years associated with the club.

Nobody could have written the script for the North Shore’s 150th birthday party better, with first the sit-down dinner to launch the North Shore Rugby Club book, where we hosted Scott (Razor) Robertson, the All Black coach in waiting. It was a marvellous night indeed. Then the Easter festivities, with a sit-down dinner for old boys, old girls, players, coaches and anybody who had had an association with the Club, held at Westlake Boys’ High School. On the Good Friday, the Field Day games against Takapuna, which attracted several thousand people. To put the icing on the birthday cake, two wins in two finals.

It has indeed been a brilliant season for both the North Shore Rugby Club and the North Shore Cricket Club, as the cricket club also won the Auckland Championship – now called the Hedley Howarth Two-day Championship. This was last won by the North Shore Cricket Club 37 years ago, when the likes of Richard Reid, Chris Davies (who incidentally was a co-coach of the North Shore Premier side that won the championship mentioned previously), Nigel Grantham, Hayden Smith, and others. So it’s a big congratulations to Will Clarke as captain of the North Shore cricket side, and his team, bringing that prestigious trophy back to Devonport.

While I’m on my hobby horse that is grass roots rugby, I would like to congratulate the Border rugby team from Waverley, for winning their fourth consecutive club rugby championship, a feat that has never been achieved before in the 100 year history of the Whanganui Club Rugby competition. I’ve a close association with Border Rugby as my daughter went to Whanganui Collegiate for five years and a couple of her friends’ families had a close association with this club. I’ve come to know many of them over the years and watched many games over the region of Whanganui, including way up the top of the Waitotara Valley. This is one of the most remote rugby fields in the southern hemisphere, being some 60kms up a no exit road and carved out of a hill. The Border team is made up of dairy farmers, stock agents, truck drivers, bank managers, doctors and lawyers and business executives, journeying down to Cooks Garden Whanganui, where Peter Snell broke the world mile record many years ago. Their opposition on the day was a big grunty team from Taihape, determined to end the winning run of championships held by the Border club, who train and play on beautiful Dallison Park, Waverley.

The Border team was ably led by Angus Middleton, with Craig Clare playing his final game, incidentally with a broken jaw. Border scored in the eightieth minute with Craig Clare adding the conversion to win the game 24-23, and therefore winning their fourth consecutive championship for Whanganui Club Rugby. We must never underestimate the importance of grass roots sport at any level in our communities; it is something to be encouraged and lauded.

I’m getting sick of moaning, it all falls on deaf ears. I see the construction of the speed humps in Devonport is going well, at a cost of $450,000 per hump.

By Kevin O’Leary, General Manager, Business North Harbour

Resilience is key

The July Official Cash Rate (OCR) announcement by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) which saw no change in the OCR following 12 consecutive increases was a major relief to us all, as many businesses and households struggle to cope with the seemingly endless rise in the cost of just about everything.

Unfortunately, while this announcement was a positive change to the recent trend, it will still be quite a while before the high interest rates that are causing so many people to re-think their priorities will start to come down, and when they do, it’s likely to be a very gradual process. Indeed, the RBNZ has stated that the OCR will need to remain at a “restrictive level for the foreseeable future”, indicating that there is little or no relief on the horizon until next year as the RBNZ remains steadfast in its commitment to bring inflation down to the target level of 1 to 3%.

This means that we are all going to have to become more resilient as we navigate our way through what for an increasing number of people are extremely difficult economic times. The current ‘cost of living crisis’ which continues to see food and utility prices increasing, when added to the high cost of borrowing, has seen a reduction in consumer spending which is affecting the operational efficacy of many businesses. Consequently, many business owners who are struggling with their cashflow due to this latest reduction in income, are having to make difficult operational decisions, including reducing the level of their workforce and putting any investment or expansion plans on hold. The real possibility of people losing their jobs is somewhat ironic when you consider the damage caused to many businesses in recent years by having to operate below optimal capacity, due to their inability to find adequate numbers of staff to fill positions.

Currently, many businesses and households are constantly having to review their budgets and prioritise their spending as the economic situation becomes more challenging. While inflation has slowed, coming down from its height of around 7.2% in December 2022, indicating that the action taken by the RBNZ is starting to have an effect, it still remains high at around 6%. When you add together these ongoing price increases, the cessation of the fuel subsidy and half-price public transport fares which have increased our travel costs, and the latest increases in your rates and water rates bills, then there is little to be optimistic about.

In these difficult times, I would ask you to keep supporting your local businesses by buying local and utilising locally available services as we all try to keep our heads above water in the current challenging economic climate. businessnh.org.nz 09

… many business owners who are struggling with their cashflow due to this latest reduction in income, are having to make difficult operational decisions…

“It’s like therapy without the talking” - client, Sept 2022

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

The Channel Crossword

Pooh-Bah! • Set by Māyā (https://mayaofauckland.com/), each month for Channel. No. 89

Across

6 Somehow I con man with toupee, obtaining a traditional introduction (4,4,1,4)

8 A number admitting trade with Henry touched a nerve (6,4)

9 Plaything captivates king of ancient city (4)

10 Is spearhead lodged in part of computer without an opening giving out? (8)

12 Amalgamation - half Angela, half German (6)

13 Release from Sir Alfred? (7)

15 Topless joint associated with Uriah Heep (7)

17 A Stooge, graduate, or "protoplasmal primordial atomic globule" (6)

18 At party - or content to leave society, preferring to stay at home (8)

20 A coin for Princess Mâyâ (4)

21 Cheat on wife and say "Stewart, do your thing!" for a forked twig (7,3)

23 Dire "Yes Minister" emergency no mystery (somehow) to a Sir Humphrey (8,5)

Down

1 Beige king in Europe (4)

2 Mad inhabitant of 16? (6)

3 Like Prince or Madonna, may initially reject my childish taboo (7)

4 Member of a paramilitary organisation holding a drink - that's representative (8)

5 "O, titter not!" - bad Italian painter (10)

6 Merry romp at one-time Turkish sultanate? (7,6)

7 Sensitive area where blood rises by a small measure and you and I separate gas (9,4)

11 Unique piece of DNA found in rising star (3,7)

14 Raymond the cold manipulator? (8)

16 Wyndham's village of rising shadow and heartless Hermione, for example (7)

19 Conduct at home, surrounded by animals (6)

22 King: "One is horrible!" (4)

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.

Ingredients

30g dried porcini or other dried mushrooms, soaked in two cups of warm water for at least 30 minutes

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1 kg pork chops, cut 3/4 inch thick

1/2 cup dry white wine

1/2 cup canned whole peeled Italian tomatoes, drained and cut up

1/2 cup cream

Salt and pepper to taste

The filtered water from the mushroom soak

1/2 lb (250g) fresh white button mushrooms

Braised pork chops with tomatoes, cream and porcini mushrooms

Directions

1. Choose a Ballarini Alba casserole pan that can accommodate all the chops without overlapping. Put in two tablespoons of the vegetable oil, turn on the heat to medium high, and when the oil is hot, slip in the chops. Brown the meat deeply on one side, then do the other side.

2. Add the white wine, letting it simmer briskly for 15 to 20 seconds, while using a wooden spoon to scrape loose any browning residues in the pan. Add the tomatoes, cream, salt and pepper, and the reconstituted drained porcini mushrooms (save the soaking water). Turn the heat down to cook at a very gentle simmer and cover the pan, setting the lid slightly ajar.

3. Cook for 45 minutes or more, depending on the exact thickness and quality of the chops, until the meat feels tender when prodded with a fork. Turn the chops from time to time.

4. While the chops are cooking, put the filtered water from the porcini mushroom soak into a small saucepan and boil it down to about 1/3 cup.

5. Wash the fresh white mushrooms rapidly under cold running water and wipe them thoroughly dry with a soft cloth towel. Cut them into very thin lengthwise slices without detaching the caps from the stems.

6. Choose a sauté pan that can contain the fresh mushrooms without crowding them. Put in the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil and turn on the heat to high. When the oil is hot, put in the mushrooms. Stir them frequently, adding salt and pepper. When the liquid they will shed has boiled away, add the reduced filtered water from the porcini soak, and continue to stir frequently until there is no more liquid in the pan. Take off heat.

7. When the pork chops are tender, add the cooked mushrooms to the pan. Turn the chops and mushrooms, cover the pan again and continue cooking for five to eight minutes over a moderate heat. Transfer the entire contents of the pan to a warm platter and serve at once.

Recipe by LakeLure Cottage

TAKAPUNA TO DEVONPORT RESIDENTIAL SPECIALIST

is experienced and well-networked.

“Buying a house in Auckland was a daunting prospect and not supposed to be an enjoyable experience so it seems weird to say that it was actually fun working with Kathryn to purchase our property. Professional, knowledgeable and calm, delivering excellent service to ensure all parties were accurately represented, and a successful outcome could be achieved. We loved working with Kathryn and the experience from start to finish has been great. Kathryn is a person of high integrity, goes the extra mile and puts relationship at the heart of what she is doing!

Rachel & Aaron

Established in the property industry for over 13 years, Kathryn sells throughout the North Shore, specialising in the Takapuna to Devonport peninsula. She

-

Devonport 2/77 Aramoana Avenue

Devonport 2/77 Aramoana Avenue

Spring good for housing market!

Spring is almost within reach, and with it, will likely come an upturn in the property market here on the Shore. If you’re feeling like a fresh start this season, you may be in the market for a move and with listings picking up after a slower winter, it may be time to press on with a new purchase.

The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand’s (REINZ) latest figures, released on 13 July, show ‘a renewed level of activity emerging’.

Chief Executive Jen Baird says REINZ is seeing a rise in sales counts alongside a hesitancy from sellers to list.

Compared to this time last year, there has been a notable increase in sales, according to REINZ. The total number of properties sold across New Zealand in June 2023 was 5,629, up from 4,912 in June 2022 (+14.6%), year-on-year.

is driving ongoing lower levels of new property coming to market and an increase in the number of sales being made,” says Jen.

Historically, data shows a decrease in sales is typically expected when moving from May to June across New Zealand. When that seasonal trend is considered, by applying seasonal adjustment to the sales count figures, REINZ says sales this June exceeded expectations, when compared to the sales count in May 2023.

Jen says, “Salespeople across the country are reporting increased first home buyer activity at open homes, with the easing of LVR restrictions that came into effect on 1 June bringing more people out looking. Although activity has increased, caution remains as interest rates, a pending election and further strain caused by the cost-of-living tempers putting pen on paper.”

Nationally, the June 2023 median price decreased 8.2% yearon-year to $780,000 from $850,000. Days to sell have risen to 49 days for June 2023 — up four days compared to June 2022 and no change from May 2023.

Take a look at some of the stunning homes available on the Shore this month in our new Channel magazine addition, The Property Channel.

At the end of June, the total number of properties for sale across New Zealand was 24,676, down 6.1% (1,595 properties) from 26,271 year-on-year, and down 7.5% month-on-month.

“With sales counts up year-on-year but down slightly monthon-month, the change in direction of the national inventory level

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.

Compared to this time last year, there has been a notable increase in sales, according to REINZ.

1/22 Tiri Road Milford

Project By The Beach

4 Bed | 4 Bath | 2 Garage

Whitney Wilson 0278 4444 24

Raewyn Jesson 021 929 586

whitney@prestierealestate co nz raewyn@prestigerealestate.co.nz

prestigerealestate co nz

21 Prospect Terrace Milford

Outstanding Development Opportunity

4 Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Garage

Experience spacious & comfortable living in this standalone home, while you explore your exciting options & decide what to do to maximize its value The potential is huge here in one of Milford's best locations Perfectly positioned 3 back from Milford beach, itself with stunning sea views The original home has been added too & enhanced over time & offers 4/5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms Also, within the dwelling is the self-contained/granny flat area/work from home with its own entrance, this being ideal for teenagers, extended family or students Benefit from the convenience of being zoned for exceptional schools Enjoy easy access to transportation, cafes & shopping mall An irresistible opportunity awaits you

Today’s buy will be tomorrow security

Prestige Real Estate International Ltd

Licensed Real Estate Agent REAA 2008

Rory Blair 0210 0233 8073

Alistair Laurie 0274 922 156

rory@prestierealestate.co.nz

alistair@prestigerealestate co nz

prestigerealestate co nz

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

Real Estate Agent REAA 2008

Set out on a generous 835m2 freehold section, this timeless 3-bedroom, 1 study home ticks a lot of boxes This is open plan living at its best - the large kitchen, living and dining area flow out to a generous deck with fantastic urban views Stairs from the deck lead down to a large back yard and second decked area

Follow the sun throughout the day with multiple outdoor living areas Enjoy a relaxing quiet coffee in the front garden or entertain family and friends on your rear deck

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

boutique North Shore Property Management Company providing a comprehensive service.

packages to suit your property’s specific needs and to retain the maximum investment return. Zane

With a low maintenance luxurious lifestyle that will suit those at all stages of life, plan family or courtyard

EXCLUSIVE

Sweeping Views, All-day Sun, One back from the Cliff Immaculate four bedroom architecturally designed home View at bayleys.co.nz/1451431

Positioned one back from the cliff with spectacular, sweeping, panoramic views and all day sun. Architecturally re-designed 17-years ago, this immaculate home is perfect for families or professional couples. Spacious open plan living rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows perfectly showcase the vista. Four bedrooms include a spacious master opening to the garden. The excellent kitchen enjoys wide views and you will love the separate media room and office. Internal access garage, workshop, and easy-care landscaped gardens. Superb location, close to beaches and schools for all ages.

Auction: 1.30pm, Thu 10 August 2023 (unless sold prior)

Victoria Bidwell

Residential Property and Waterfront Specialist

021 947 080 | victoria.bidwell@bayleys.co.nz

Top Individual agent for Bayleys North Shore for 17 years (inc 2022/23)

Bayleys National Top achiever since 2007

International Property Awards, London – Winner Best Residential Marketing

Specialising in Takapuna and Devonport Peninsula

Spectacular

Views, Beach Access, Two Bedroom Cottage View at bayleys.co.nz/1451475

This delightful waterfront villa and separate two-bedroom cottage has exceptional city views and direct beach access. Sitting comfortably on a 1404sqm road to water site, it has all the character of a turn-of-the-century home and all the modern creature comforts of a home built only eleven years ago. Professionally landscaped gardens provide sunny and easy-care outdoor areas with beautiful mature planting, flat lawns, ample off-street parking (in addition to the three-car garaging) and a modern boardwalk for easy access to the beach, where at high tide you can enjoy all water activities from swimming to boating.

Asking Price $5,950,000

Victoria Bidwell

Residential Property and Waterfront Specialist

021 947 080 | victoria.bidwell@bayleys.co.nz

Top Individual agent for Bayleys North Shore for 17 years (inc 2022/23)

Bayleys National Top achiever since 2007

International Property Awards, London – Winner Best Residential Marketing

Specialising in Takapuna and Devonport Peninsula

EXCLUSIVE

Easy-care Luxury on the Golden Mile

Breathtaking views that have to be seen to be believed View at bayleys.co.nz/1451437

If you’d like the advantages of a standalone home but the convenience of a luxury apartment with your own easy-care garden, this iconic waterfront home will be perfect! Positioned in the “Avenues” with scene-stealing architecture that hugs the coast with sweeping curves and 27 metres of floor-to-ceiling glass, showcasing the views. Fully renovated with top of the range imported finishes, it delivers an exceptional lifestyle of convenience and luxury with dramatic ocean views. Solid concrete construction makes it easy-care inside and out, making it perfect for both a permanent home or a lock-up and leave.

Victoria Bidwell

Residential Property and Waterfront Specialist

021 947 080 | victoria.bidwell@bayleys.co.nz

Top Individual agent for Bayleys North Shore for 17 years (inc 2022/23)

Bayleys National Top achiever since 2007

International Property Awards, London – Winner Best Residential Marketing

Specialising in Takapuna and Devonport Peninsula

We are so excited to be in our new office, and appreciate how many of you have come to see us.

List in August with Bayleys Devonport and be in to win $5,000 Airpoints dollars. Contact us now!