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Discover a new tranquil oasis in the heart of Takapuna, where the vibrant flavours of Vietnam intertwine with contemporary elegance. At Hanoi Haven, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Vietnamese cuisine while embracing a modern twist.
Our story begins in the enchanting streets of Hanoi, where the aroma of sizzling street food fills the air, mingling with the laughter and stories of families gathered together. It was amidst this vibrant tapestry of life, steeped in centuries of tradition and heritage, that our culinary passion blossomed.
Our menu is a testament to the enduring legacy of Vietnamese cuisine, showcasing both classic dishes that have graced tables for centuries, and contemporary creations that re-imagine beloved flavours. Each bite is a whispered memory of a homeland rich in history, a harmonious blend of heritage and modernity, a love letter to the culinary artistry of Vietnam.
With years of experience in renowned kitchens across Vietnam, our chef brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Hanoi Haven, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience. Complementing Chef’s culinary artistry is our dedicated team of hospitality professionals, committed to providing impeccable service and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere for every guest. We believe that dining is not merely about the food, but also memories created and connections forged. "Come, join us at Hanoi Haven. Let the tranquil ambience, attentive service and exquisite flavours nourish your soul and create lasting memories."
Hanoi Haven, 40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 263 6393 hello@hanoihaven.co.nz hanoihaven.co.nz
Open 7 days, 11am to late
Offering completely sensational uninterrupted views from its substantial clifftop site of 1,391m2 of freehold land and positioned on Seacliffe Avenue, renowned for some of the finest homes on the North Shore, number 52 is an amazing family package.
Immaculately presented and meticulously maintained, the property was constructed in 2005 of concrete block and a cavity plaster system (with an excellent building report). A palisade wall on the cliff (with geotech report from Riley Consulting) further enhances the integrity of the property.
The 430m2 home offers very generous proportions and an abundance of space – a fantastic home to house a family. It comprises four double bedrooms, multiple living spaces (including games room), two and half bathrooms, large gym and three-car garaging.
The master suite occupies the upper level, which is a luxurious space, with great views, large ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. A modern open plan kitchen, informal dining space, formal dining and living span entire width of the mid-level of the home, capturing the expansive views including framed views of Rangitoto. A large deck leading off this space is perfect for
Phone: 021 747 334
Over $1.3 Billion total sales
entertaining and enjoying the view and garden below. An additional westfacing deck provides excellent sun and light into the property.
On the ground level there are three double bedrooms, which flow out into a large lounge/games room ideal for teenagers. This level also has uninterrupted sea views, and these three bedrooms share a large family bathroom.
There is a large three-car garage with internal access plus plenty of off-street parking, and an additional room flows off the garage lending itself to a home gym. Alternatively, it could be a workshop/studio or would be an ideal workfrom-home office with its own external entry. A lift provides access to all levels of the house providing easy access for all ages and demographics.
This substantial luxury home is perfect for large families offering superb sea views, generous spaces and ideal separation. The property is ideally located, with its proximity to local beaches, shops and excellent local schools within an easy walk. Alternatively, the school bus to top North Shore private school Kristin, is located directly across the road from the property.
Located in the idyllic and tightly held pocket of Castor Bay, this is a spectacular and unique opportunity to secure a superb slice of beachfront property.
On offer, in terms of the land, is approximately 534 sqm of prime, direct access beachfront. It is rare to have a smaller site with a more affordable end value available on the beach; a blank canvas, primed and ready for your complete redevelopment. The property has the most idyllic relationship with the water and is situated to benefit from the sensational all-day sun with complete exposure to the east, north and west– superb!
The property in recent times has had some water ingress issues and will either require extensive remedial works or the complete removal of the existing home.
On offer in terms of the improvements is a non-cavity plaster system that was built in the late 1980s. With a unique angular design with white plaster and a mirrored glass exterior, it was once the height of eighties architectural design – “Miami Vice Cool”. Comprising four bedrooms, two separate living areas, three bathrooms, and a double garage, the home has been designed to capture the stunning views from this superb beachfront position.
The home has excellent proximity to local shops and cafés in Castor Bay itself and slightly further afield in Milford. It is zoned for top local schools and has easy access to the motorway.
Contact your architect and start planning your new dream beachfront home. Opportunities like this one do not come along often – we encourage you to act quickly.
Andrew specialises in marketing homes on the golden mile between Milford and Takapuna and around the waterfront. In the last eight consecutive calendar years, Andrew has sold over $100 million each year, at an average of over $5,000,000 per property – one of the highest (in volume and average sale price) residentially in the country. While he is renowned for dealing with higher value properties, Andrew has also carved a niche in the seaward side streets in and around Milford and Takapuna, especially with the lock-up-and-leave market. He sees a strong correlation between larger homes and the downsizer market assisting those vendors with their next purchase. If you are thinking of selling your home or purchasing a new one, please contact Andrew for a confidential discussion.
Welcome to our September 2024 issue of Channel Mag - another impressive 108-page totally free community magazine.
Our lively cover is courtesy of our friends at the Tim Bray Theatre Company who have adapted Joy Cowley’s 'Mrs Wishy-Washy' into a wonderful stage show, with a season for the school holidays at The Pumphouse Theatre in Takapuna in late September and early October. Established in 1991, Tim Bray Theatre Company is New Zealand’s longest-running professional children’s theatre company based at the Lake House Arts Centre here on the Shore. They’re dedicated to inspiring audiences through the power of imagination by making theatre for children aged three to 10 years and their families. The team at Benefitz and Channel Mag loves supporting and working with Tim and his team.
MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Awareness Week runs from 9 to 15 September 2024. During the week there will be a comedy night fundraiser in the city hosted by North Shore’s Sam Smith. Christine Young interviews Sam for this issue. The Sunnynook resident and former Westlake Boys student was a dentist until he
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was diagnosed with MS and had to give up due to a lack of feeling in his hands. He’s now a comedian, a published children’s author and works in television, mainly writing comedy and doing audience warm-up. He also starred in 'The Traitors' reality television show last year and won it. It’s an interesting interview.
As usual, there is something for everyone in this issue of Channel Mag. We have a focus on health, I chat with another former Westlake student and football star Ben Old, and we also profile two new laureates inducted into the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame, Jolie Hodson and Martin Cooper.
In our Q&A feature, we chat to hardworking and passionate North Shore librarians James, Chrissy, Jerome and Marie, about what they’ve got on for the kids for the upcoming school holidays. It’s a fun feature.
Have a great September. Spring is almost here!
Aidan Bennett, QSM
Publisher, Channel Magazine Founder & MD, Benefitz Email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz
Aidan Bennett 021 500 997 aidan@benefitz.co.nz
Liz Cannon 021 204 3395 liz@channelmag.co.nz
Kim McIntosh 021 419 468 kim@channelmag.co.nz
Designer Crystal Sharp crystal@benefitz.co.nz
Online and Social Media
Klaudia Wal klaudia@benefitz.co.nz
CHANNEL MAGAZINE is published monthly (on the first Friday of the month) by Benefitz, PO Box 33-1630, Takapuna. 09 477 4700, benefitz.co.nz. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers. For further details on the magazine visit channelmag.co.nz or contact one of our team detailed above.
nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may occur.
North Harbour Rugby’s 2024 season was launched with a function held at Northcote Rugby Club in late July. Benefitz, publisher of Channel Magazine, is one of the union's longest sponsors, having supported it since the early '90s – 30 years! Over the past two decades, Benefitz is proud to have its logo featured on the playing strip, initially on the collar, and more recently on the shorts – where we are again for 2024. The event was to launch the seasons for both the Harbour Men’s NPC and Women’s Farah Palmer Cup teams. The squads were officially introduced and there were addresses from Union chairman Gerard Van Tilborg, CEO Adrian Donald and lead sponsor Mike Gray of Go Media. Members of the Benefitz and Channel Mag team were part of the action.
List with Libby this Spring to take advantage of 45% more value on your marketing spend and a chance to win an Audi Q5.
The end of term was a great excuse to celebrate at the Devonport RSA for Tony McNeight`s travel sketching classes. The topic of the eight-week term was 'A dream city or town anywhere in the world you wish to visit'. On show were up to 50 amazingly colourful books journalling each student's journey using materials such as pen, paper and watercolour in A5 travel journals. Students were given a topic – history, food, transport, clothing – and worked together in class sharing ideas and ways of creating. Erin Hill Sketching classes are a great way to set up for 'the real thing', with many of us now travelling to places we've always wanted to see and experience. What better way to do it than with a sketchbook and pen in hand? The perfect way to keep those travel memories alive. Well done to all the talented students – some amazing travel art was showcased at the well-attended event!
Smales Farm
Now relocated to its new facility, Shorecare Urgent Care Clinic celebrated its grand opening on Monday 19 August at its new premises at 50 Greville Road, Pinehill. Well attended by over 100 guests, a formal blessing by local kaumātua opened the celebrations and continued with blessings throughout the new location, accompanied by the guests. All enjoyed the gourmet grazing table and cold drinks provided. Shorecare Greville Road replaces Shorecare Northcross (now closed) and is open daily, 365 days a year from 8am to 8pm. This brand-new facility will be a huge asset to the wider North Shore communities.
Forsyth Barr invites you to join Westpac’s Chief Economist
Kelly Eckhold and Forsyth Barr’s Investment Strategist
Zoe Wallis for their expert view on the New Zealand and global political and economic landscape in a significant election year. We are also bringing together a panel of talented investment advisers to discuss how they apply the principles of investing to navigate and take advantage of current market opportunities. There will also be an opportunity for Q&A.
Date: Tuesday, 17 September 2024
Time: 5.30pm - 7.00pm
Venue: Auditorium Room, B:Hive Smales Farm, 74 Taharoto Road, Takapuna, Auckland
RSVP by: Wednesday, 11 September to ns.events@forsythbarr.co.nz or phone 09 368 0150
By Hon Simon Watts, North Shore MP
Children need to be taught the basics of reading, writing, and maths brilliantly to set them up for success. Recently we shared some concerning news on maths results in this country.
New data shows that last year, just 22% of Year 8 students were at the expected curriculum level for maths. Worse still, three in five are more than a year behind.
That means that last year, around 50,000 children in Year 8 did not meet the expected curriculum benchmark for maths.
These figures are disappointing. This represents a total system failure, and our children deserve better. Our children weren’t being taught the basics, leading to falling educational achievement and a significant decline relative to previous generations and children in other countries.
That’s why we’re taking swift action to transform maths education with the launch of the Make It Count maths action plan that will take effect from Term 1 next year. There are four components — curriculum, workforce, assessment, and accountability.
We’re accelerating the shift to a new structured maths curriculum for Year 0-8 students, rolling it out a year earlier than planned. So, from Term 1 next year, your child will be learning maths based on a new world-leading, knowledge-rich curriculum — similar to countries like Singapore and Australia.
Every school will be getting top-quality resources to support teachers with this change, giving parents the confidence that their child will succeed.
We also need to ensure our teachers have the confidence to teach children’s maths. That's why we’re making $20 million available for professional development in structured maths. We’re lifting the standard for new teachers too, requiring new teachers to have at least NCEA Level 2 maths.
We’re making sure that children that need help get the support they need. There will be small group interventions for students who have fallen significantly behind, informed by twice-yearly standardised assessments for maths from 2025.
Finally, we’re ensuring our education system is accountable. The Ministry of Education will intervene earlier and more often in schools where extra support is needed. The Education Review Office will overhaul its reporting to focus on student progress, achievement, and assessment. Trainee teachers will also be better prepared with a stronger maths component in their initial teacher education. We’ve already required an hour a day each for maths, reading, and writing in schools, banned cellphones from classrooms, and are rolling out structured literacy to improve achievement, but it’s clear we have a serious turnaround job on our hands.
We have a plan, and we are acting — fast. Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, a principal — or you’re a student still working out what your future will hold: we have your back.
Hon Simon Watts — MP for North Shore, Email: simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz 09 486 0005
Facebook: @simonwattsmp Instagram: @simonwattsmp
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Shore Junction
Shore Junction is a launchpad for young local talent. This year Laura, our youth music and events coordinator has been focusing on providing a unique platform for young people to showcase their skills and build confidence through live performances.
Our after-hours gigs (Stage 2 and more recently Core on the Shore) offer a safe and supportive environment for budding musicians, singers and bands to take the stage. With the guidance of experienced youth workers and the enthusiastic support of fellow young volunteers, these events are creating a thriving gig scene.
From raw acoustic sets to energetic band performances, the variety of talent on display is inspiring. These gigs not only provide a chance to hone performance skills but also foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among young people. Our auditorium space is transformed into a stage and young people can attend a safe drug- and alcohol-free gig.
By creating opportunities for young people to express themselves creatively, Shore Junction is empowering the next generation of artists and leaders. We believe that every young person deserves a chance to shine, and we’re committed to providing that platform.
So, keep an eye out on Instagram for upcoming events – you might just discover the next big star.
To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz
Phoenix Theatre makes a comeback after a seven-year hiatus with the Seemore Tours season of 'Call Girls', an hilarious comedy by North Shore's James Carrick.
'Call Girls' promises uproarious entertainment as four determined older women strive to save their cherished Beach Haven Rest Home from a corporate developer. Phoenix Theatre searched extensively for a play with heart, humour and relatable characters, and 'Call Girls' hits all the marks. “In today's turbulent times, this play offers a refreshing escape,” says Phoenix Theatre's vice president, Braydon Priest.
In the play, residents Ivy, Angela, Pauline and Rose adopt alter egos and launch a pay-per-minute phone chat service to raise funds, battling against a conniving councillor and the looming threat of 'Shady Glades', a corporate giant in retirement living. From the comedic misadventures in the world of chat lines to encounters with a suave tv host, a stereotypical Irish priest, and an overly enthusiastic exercise instructor, 'Call Girls' guarantees non-stop laughter from curtain up to curtain down.
Local writer James Carrick drew inspiration from his experiences working around retirement communities, infusing the laughs with heartfelt moments. “Meeting older people every day who have so much to share motivated me to bring their stories to the stage,” Carrick explains.
The Phoenix Theatre team refrains from comparisons but suggests fans of 'Calendar Girls', 'Ladies Day' and 'Dinner Ladies' will find 'Call Girls' equally enjoyable. The production has already attracted
substantial interest, with cast members commuting from as far afield as Onehunga and Bethells Beach. Director Liz Cannon's enthusiasm is palpable. She says, "Rehearsals are going extremely well, and with such a strong and talented cast, the whole process is a real pleasure. We can't wait to bring this wonderfully funny and heart-warming play to the stage!"
The Seemore Tours season of 'Call Girls' at Takapuna's PumpHouse Theatre runs from Thursday 17 to Saturday 26 October. Tickets are already in hot demand – hurry to secure your tickets now at pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/show/call-girls
Returning with a beloved audience favourite, North Shore’s own children’s theatre company Tim Bray Theatre Company is set to bring Joy Cowley’s Mrs Wishy-Washy to life on stage once more.
The fantastically funny farmyard adventure will be playing at The PumpHouse Theatre, Takapuna from 21 September – 12 October before heading to Due Drop Events Centre, Manukau from 15 – 18 October.
“Oh, lovely mud!” exclaim Mrs Wishy-Washy’s farm animals Cow, Duck, and Pig. While the animals just love getting mucky, Mrs WishyWashy is determined to keep them spotless for the Big Farm Fair.
Audiences will be treated to comical chaos as Mrs Wishy-Washy attempts to give her muddy animal buddies a good scrub. This tale teaches valuable lessons about determination, friendship and the consequences of one’s actions, while offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy some good, clean, laugh-out loud fun.
Tim Bray Theatre Company continues its love of New Zealand children’s book author Joy Cowley, following previous successful productions of her stories 'Greedy Cat' and 'Snake and Lizard' in its repertoire. The company first staged Mrs Wishy-Washy in 2013 and now brings it back to audiences for the first time since 2017.
“Joy Cowley is internationally recognised as a superlative writer for children. Her Mrs Wishy-Washy series has sold millions of copies around the world and the books have been a bedrock of early reading helping countless numbers of children to learn to read. In this show I have woven 15 of these iconic New Zealand books into one show. With songs by Christine White, a fabulous set design, as well as fun costumes, lighting and clever makeup – it will be a show that is funny and hugely entertaining for three to eight year olds,” says Tim Bray QSM.
Getting stuck in the mud are newcomers to Tim Bray Theatre Company Clare Adams and Max Cumberpatch, as well as returning stars Verity George, Rebecca Ansell, Kat Glass, Kazim Khan, and Grant Zent who all starred in the company’s production of 'The Great
Piratical Rumbustification' earlier this year, and Carolyn Lamonde ('The Santa Claus Show ‘22', 'The Lighthouse Keeper’s Lunch').
The performance has been described as “a fine addition to children’s theatre repertoire and it does Joy Cowley proud on every level” by Lexie Matheson on Theatreview.
Tim Bray Theatre Company is committed to making its shows accessible and inclusive for everyone. For this season of 'Mrs WishyWashy', the company will have sensory relaxed, NZSL interpreted, and audio-described performances available for audiences to enjoy. TBTC also aims to provide almost 3,000 tickets through its Gift a Seat® programme for schools that apply for support, Make-A-Wish families, and to education groups needing an accessible performance.
Book now at timbray.org.nz to see Mrs Wishy-Washy live on stage at The PumpHouse Theatre from 21 September – 12 October.
By JOY COWLEY
Takapuna | Manukau 21 Sep - 18 Oct timbray.org.nz
News from The PumpHouse from James Bell
DEPOT with Amy Saunders
As we roll into spring, The PumpHouse Theatre is blooming with various shows that promise to tickle your funny bone, ignite your imagination, and leave you pondering the power of words. Here’s what’s lighting up our stage this September and October.
From 4-15 September: Get ready for some hilarity with Roger Hall’s 'Taking Off'. This classic Kiwi comedy follows four adventurous middle-aged women as they embark on a life-changing trip to Europe. Directed by the talented Simon Prast and featuring a stellar cast including Jodie Dorday, Laura Hill, Darien Takle, and Rachel Nash, this production will have you laughing, crying, and perhaps planning your own “OE”!
Workshop alert! Aspiring stage managers, this one’s for you! On 7 September, theatre legend Teresa Sokolich is offering a one-day Stage Management Masterclass. This is a golden opportunity to learn from the best in the business.
From 21 September to 12 October: Tim Bray Theatre Company brings Joy Cowley’s beloved Mrs Wishy-Washy to life. Get ready for some muddy mayhem as Cow, Duck, and Pig do their best to dodge Mrs Wishy-Washy’s cleaning frenzy. Perfect for kids and the young at heart, this show is a delightful romp through the farmyard that’s sure to leave everyone grinning.
Coal Bunker comedy. For those who like their comedy a bit more unpredictable, our Coal Bunker Studio is the place to be. On 27 September, Late Night Knife Fight pits three improv teams against each other in a hilarious battle. Then, on 28 September, Casual First Date takes the stage with their popular improvised comedy show where the strange and mundane get excitingly close!
A taste of October
Don’t miss 'Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons' by Sam Steiner from 3-12 October. This award-winning sensation has captured hearts from Edinburgh to London and beyond. The play imagines a world where words are limited – a powerful exploration of communication, silence, and the lengths we go to connect with those we love.
On 7 October, don’t miss our final Creative Talk for the year with poet Stu Bagby. The talk is free with refreshments provided. And one you certainly won't want to miss is the world premiere of 'Call Girls' by James Carrick, from 17 to 26 October. When Beach Haven Rest Home faces closure, the residents, with the support of their manager, hilariously adopt alter-egos to raise funds through a chat line, leading to laugh-out-loud moments and a heartwarming, satisfying conclusion.
Find out more and book tickets on our website pumphouse.co.nz
See you at the theatre soon!
James Bell
We’re thrilled to be part of Devonport’s growing First Thursdays event series, a globally recognised initiative that activates communities through arts and cultural activities. So, on the first Thursday of every month, you can be sure to find a series of things to do in Devonport.
Next month for First Thursdays, on Thursday 3 October, from 5-7:30pm, we are hosting Collage Your Internal Self-Portrait, a hands-on collage workshop with Naomi Azoula .This workshop guides participants on a journey of selfexpression to tap into their intuition.
Participants will curate symbolic portraits reflecting their individuality by selecting images, colours and textures that resonate with them, and experiment with various techniques, from spontaneous tearing to precise detail cutting. The process embraces happy accidents and unexpected surprises, encouraging participants to explore the limitless possibilities of intuitive collage.
Tickets are $10 and cover all materials and refreshments courtesy of our hospitality partner Toi Toi Wines. Spaces are limited so head to depot.org.nz to secure your spot!
Depot Artspace –Sponge City
Our current exhibition Sponge City explores urban resilience against the adverse weather effects of climate change. Through the art form of printmaking, this collaborative exhibition – delivered in partnership with Restoring Takarunga Hauraki (RTH) –addresses the recent flooding that Tāmaki Makaurau has experienced and how this natural disaster impacted our communities.
We’re hosting several FREE workshops and events in support of the exhibition, including a Tetra Pak printmaking workshop on Saturday 14 September, from 2-4pm. Be sure to check out depot. org.nz and register your spot today!
Stay in touch by subscribing to our newsletter at depot.org.nz to keep up to date with all things DEPOT, including exhibition openings, live music performances, workshops, creative opportunities and more!
Here at Channel we're proud to support our local hospo businesses in our monthly eating out guide. Try somewhere new this month.
Akdeniz Bar Cafe Restaurant
Persian and Mediterranean cuisine.
5/15 Victoria Rd. 09 600 2125. akdenizdevonport.co.nz
Buona Sera Restaurant
Authentic Italian food. 99 Victoria Rd. 09 445 8133. buonasera.co.nz
Cafe Hung Viet
Vietnamese cuisine. 101 Victoria Rd. 09 446 3368. cafehungviet.co.nz
Calimero
Real pizza, great taste! 163 Victoria Rd. 09 445 2232.
Corellis
Home-style fare. 46 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4151. corelliscafe.co.nz
Devonport Indian Hub - The Asian Eatery
The best of Indian and Asian fusion cuisine. 71 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4263. devonportindianhub.co.nz
Devon on the Wharf Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. 1 Queen's Parade. 09 445 7012. devononthewharf.nz
Flying Rickshaw
Indian cuisine. 97 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7721.
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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 Next Station Chinese Cuisine
Hong Kong and Cantonese-style Chinese cuisine for eat-in and takeaways. 41 Victoria Road. 09 200 0683
The Patriot (Pub)
14 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3010. thepatriot.co.nz
Vic Road 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
Independent owner-operated eatery in Devonport. Serving food to suit every diet, alongside craft beer, natural wine and small-batch spirits. We hold weekly specials, winemakers' dinners, as well as private and charity events. Sign up to our mailing list or follow our social channels to keep up to date.
Opening hours: Tues-Fri 4pm-late Saturday & Sunday 10am-late 09 446 6444 hello@vondel.co.nz www.vondel.co.nz Instagram Instagram @vondel_akl Facebook facebook.com/vondelakl
Vondel
Vegan and omni eats. 8 Victoria Rd. 09 446 6444. vondel.co.nz
Caffé Santini
Alessandro's back offering the best coffee on the Shore! 63c Lake Road, Belmont. 0221 872 491. espressosantini@gmail.com
Daily Bread
Freshly baked loaves and perfect pastries. 43 Eversleigh Rd, Belmont. dailybread.co.nz
Hauraki Social Club
NEW locally owned and operated bar and eatery. Level 1, 335 Lake Road, Hauraki. 09 802 2554. haurakisocialclub.co.nz
Sheppards Corner
Authentic TexMex - a slice of Texas on the North Shore. 131 Lake Road, Belmont. 09 447 4377. sheppardsnz.com
XO Takapuna
Asian skewers and street style food. 333 Lake Road, Hauraki Corner. 09 486 0003. xotakapuna.com
A new locally owned and operated bar and eatery located upstairs in the historic Corner Store building at Hauraki Corner (entrance up the dedicated alleyway at the rear).
Enjoy an excellent selection of beer, wine and other drinks alongside a range of delicious shared plates.
No membership necessary.
335 Lake Road, Hauraki Corner @haurakisocialclub on socials hello@haurakisocialclub.co.nz haurakisocialclub.co.nz
Open Wed-Fri from 3.30pm and Sat-Sun from 12pm
Fantail & Turtle
Popular bar and eatery with alfresco vibe and great food! 09 486 0644. fantailandturtle.co.nz
Shake Out Burgers 09 489 8223. shakeout.co
Soho Thai 09 972 2711. sohothaikitchen.com
The Grange Bar & Bistro
A favourite all-day bar and bistro. 09 972 9060. thegrangetakapuna.co.nz
Alforno Italian Restaurant
34 Anzac Street. 09 488-0179. alforno.co.nz
Aubergine Restaurant
European and Mediterranean. 129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3104. aubergine.co.nz
Botticelli Restaurant & Wine Bar
Italian eatery. 8 Anzac Street. 021 910 999. botticelli.co.nz
Burger Burger
Eat Street. 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 390 5348. burgerburger.co.nz
Catch 21 Eatery
Serving exceptional coffee, staple café offerings and fine seafood.
33 Hurstmere Rd. 09 484 0005. catch21.co.nz
Centro Café
447a Lake Rd. 09 200 2277
Dantes Pizza & Casa Pasta
Eat Street. 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 486 3668. dantes.co.nz
El Humero
Colombian-style barbecue. Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9973. elhumero.co.nz
Florrie McGreals Irish Pub
138 Hurstmere Road. 09 486 6330. florriemcgreals.co.nz
Flourish Café
Coffee with a conscience, service with a smile! Help Project Employ trainees fulfil their goal of gaining employment. 19 Como Street. 09 489 2266. projectemploy.nz
French Rendez-Vous
French bistro-creperie serving delicious traditional French favourites.
2a Maurere Ave. (next to The PumpHouse). 09 487 0009. french-rendez-vous-caferestaurant.business.site
Hanoi Haven
Vietnamese cuisine.
40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 263 6393. hanoihaven.co.nz
Hong's Korean Kitchen
Shop 5, 62 Hurstmere Rd. 09 200 0217. hongskoreanrestaurant.co.nz
Hops & Claret Drinkery
136 Hurstmere Road. 09 486 6330. hopsandclaret.co.nz
Nanam
Filipino flavours. 178 Hurtsmere Rd. 09 488 9976 nanam.co.nz
Regatta Bar & Eatery
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0040. joylab.co.nz/regatta
Rosie's Red-Hot Cantina
The best of California's vibrant coast and LA street scene. Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0016. starsocial.nz/venues/rosies-red-hot-cantina-takapuna
Sakebar Nippon
Traditional Japanese (Isakaya style).
32 Anzac Street. 09 486 2249. sakebar.co.nz
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
Tokyo Bay
Modern Japanese cuisine. Main Beach, The Strand. 09 390 7188. tokyobay.co.nz
Wok 'n Noodle
Asian restaurant - tasty, nutritious food cooked right in front of you.
1/7 The Strand. 09 485 3259. woknnoodle.com
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
Founded on friendship with offerings that acknowledge our fierce independence and appreciation of artisans. Expect fresh and local craft beer, real ale and cider flowing from 15 taps, a wine list covering near and distant regions synonymous with varietal excellence, an extensive gin list enhanced with botanics fresh from our on-site gardens, bespoke cocktails to sip into the evening, and a modern seasonal menu designed to share, focusing on showcasing sustainable and locally sourced produce. Supreme Winner - NZ Gastropub Awards 2024 hello@fantailandturtle.co.nz fantailandturtle.co.nz Instagram fantailandturtle
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
Welcome to our 'home away from home' cosy haven, where smiles abound with friendly service, exceptional coffee and delectable cuisine. Each customer becomes part of our extended family, savouring not only the taste of our offerings but also the heartfelt care that accompanies every visit. Step into our café and let us wrap you in a comforting embrace of hospitality and flavours that delight the senses.
Mon-Sun, 7am-3pm.
No surcharge on public holidays
447a Lake Road, Takapuna 09 200 2277 centroauckland@gmail.com
Facebook @centrotakapuna Instagram @centrotakapuna
Dutch Bistro. 3 Birkenhead Ave. 0274613898. ditisit.co.nz
Fika With Me
Cosy café serving funky, flavourful Findian-inspired food. 5 Birkenhead Avenue. 09 418 5508. @fikawithme
Jose's Cantina Mexican. 12-14 Birkenhead Ave. 09 218 6162. josescantina.co.nz
Moxie Restaurant
82 Hinemoa St. 09 419 9082. moxierestaurant.co.nz
Mulan Malaysian Restaurant
243 Hinemoa St. 09 480 2806. mulan.co.nz
Primerose Thai Cuisine
6 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 0555. primerosethaicuisine.co.nz
Real Burger
30 Birkenhead Ave. 021 085 95485. realburger.site
Tasty Tiny Thai Restaurant
52d Mokoia Rd. 09 418 4999. tastytinythai.co.nz
Thai Yum Food Hut
23 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 6799. thaiyum.net.nz
The Curry Master
18 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 7211. thecurrymaster.co.nz/birkenhead
The Good Home
83 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 0066. thegoodhomebirkenhead.co.nz
Anokha Indian Restaurant
140 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 1499. anokha.co.nz
Bunty's Burgers
Gourmet burger bar.
89 Kitchener Rd. 09 486 5711
WANT YOUR CAFE/ RESTAURANT TO BE NOTICED? Sign up for your 6th-page ad for the year for just $120+gst per issue. Full-page feature reviews can be booked for $990+gst (normally $1,450+gst)
Cave À Vin
146 Kitchener Rd. caveavin.co.nz
Khu Khu Eatery
100% vegan and Thai-inspired restaurant. 91 Kitchener Road. 09 600 3327. khukhu.co.nz
La Mexicana
13 Shakespeare Rd. 09 282 0392. lamexicana.co.nz
Monthien Thai Restaurant
142 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0409. monthien.co.nz
Musashi Japanese Cuisine Milford
212 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 5977. musashirestaurant.co.nz
PYM's of Milford
Popular neighbourhood Milford village bar & eatery. 154 Kitchener Rd. pymsofmilford.com
Stanley Avenue
52 East Coast Rd. 09 410 0066. stanleyavenue.co.nz
Talay Thai Restaurant
83-85 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 9568 talaythai.co.nz
The Hub Milford Bar & Grill
145 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 4480. thehubmilford.nz
Tokki
Modern Korean restaurant. 87 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0888 tokki.co.nz
The Milford Cafe, Bar & Restaurant
7 Milford Road. 09 488 9388. themilford.co.nz
The Engine Room
115 Queen Street. 09 480 9502. engineroom.net.nz
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
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
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
San Marco Trattoria & Bar 231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley. 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV $85 per bottle between 5-7pm daily
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! Yellow Hour! Bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne only $85 from 5pm to 7pm every night! Going to Matlida’s at Bruce Mason in September – call in to Taylors for a preshow drink and dinner
Winner Lewisham Awards, Outstanding Local Establishment, Auckland North 168 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz 09 489 9510
Licenced Eatery
Tokyo Bay is situated seaside, Takapuna Beach.
You can dine and watch the cruise liners sail out after a day in Auckland.
We are open seven days, with a casual lunch menu featuring light bites to a range of bento box styled selections, and from 5pm a more extensive evening menu featuring modern Japanese cuisine.
Bookings are essential.
Tripadvisor's 'Best of the Best' 2021, 2022 and 2023
tokyobay.co.nz Facebook tokyobaytakapuna
A premium bar with amazing tapas and cocktails. Cool and groovy with a distinctive underground vibe, Hops & Claret provides a refreshing retreat in summer and a cozy getaway in winter. Based on over 60 reviews received, Hops & Claret proudly scores 5 stars for food and 5 stars for service. Perfect for small functions or social occasions, catering for up to 40 people. Opens 3pm Wednesday-Saturday.
136 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6330 hello@hopsandclaret.co.nz hopsandclaret.co.nz Facebook @HopsandClaret
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday (no bookings needed) with traditional and authentic French flavours like beef bourguignon, gluten-free galettes and sweet crêpes.
Located in the heart of Takapuna with a Lake Pupuke view, we are fully licensed with different ranges of French wines.
2a Manurere Avenue
Next to The PumpHouse, Takapuna frenchrendezvous.booking@gmail 09 487 0009
Facebook: FrenchRendezvousTakapuna
Instagram: frenchrendezvoustakapuna
Delivering a slice of Italian hospitality on a journey that starts from our heart to your table. This is a place that revisits the traditions of Italian hospitality, where food is made in a homemade style accompanied by loving memories of cooking and bonding over food. The team brings to the table combined hospitality skills, as well as secret family recipes passed down from one generation to the other. Eat, drink, feel good - benvenuti! Wed-Fri 11am-Late; Sat-Sun 10am-Late. Happy hour 3-7pm.
Dinner service starts at 5pm 231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz Facebook Instagram @sanmarcoauckland
Discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of Takapuna, where the vibrant flavours of Vietnam intertwine with contemporary elegance. At Hanoi Haven, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Vietnamese cuisine while embracing a modern twist. With years of experience in renowned kitchens across Vietnam, our chef brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Hanoi Haven, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 263 6393 hello@hanoihaven.co.nz hanoihaven.co.nz
Open 7 days, 11am to late.
Tantalise your taste buds with the best steak experience at this beautiful venue in Browns Bay. Explore the impressive selection of cuts sourced from New Zealand, Australia and Japan, where great pride is taken in using the highest quality ingredients, matched with a carefully curated wine and beverage list. The friendly team provides top-notch catering services, taking care of your special events, cocktail parties, corporate events, conferences, birthdays, anniversaries and Christmas functions.
37 Clyde Road, Browns Bay 0800 213 297 21days.co.nz
Takapuna has us spoilt for choice with the many wonderful places where you can catch up and hang out with your friends and whānau. We’ve picked some of our favourite low-key places to visit – you’re bound to find something perfect for the occasion. Be prepared for some proper memory-making moments, top conversations, a few wins from your favourite sporting team and good ol’ good times.
Ladies and gents, for after-work drinks or an easy midweek dinner with the family, The Elephant Wrestler has you covered. The menu is all about family-friendly favourites, and a “‘bits and bobs” section with options that would go down perfectly with a beverage. Popcorn prawns, fried tofu and crumbed onion rings? Get in my belly.
If you’re after a venue with stunning ocean scenery and inspirational views, you can’t go past Regatta Bar and Eatery . Overlooking Takapuna beach and the Hauraki Gulf, incredible food is not the only thing Regatta will be serving up.
Think you know a good burger? Pop by Burger Burger and widen your horizons. This crew takes the humble burger and elevates it by using top-quality ingredients and some pretty sweet food combinations. You can book a table, or pop by as you meander past. Vegans are well catered for, and there is a surprisingly extensive selection of non-burger options.
When it’s time for an easy breezy breakfast or brunch catch-up, head to Catch 21 Eatery. Order from the menu or hit the wide selection of cabinet food. If you pick your day right, you’re in for a free beverage with the burger of the day. Don’t forget to grab a poochaccino for your doggie friend.
How about an option that’s healthy, customisable never compromising on flavour? Look no further than Poké Poké You know what’s perfect about this hangout? You can take your bowl down to the beautiful Takapuna Beach, or dine in-house.
Order a few share plates among you, grab a cocktail – the bar team are mixing up bangin’ alcoholic and zero-alcohol specialities – and you’re in for a spectacular hangout.
There’s also the new kid on the block, and she’s coming in HOT! Rosie’s Red Hot Cantina has opened on Takapuna’s beachfront, bringing some LA street vibes fused with its take on Mexican street food.
If a few mates, some great music, ice cold beer and frozen margarita slushies, a few tacos or a burger, some guac’ and nachos to share, overlooking Takapuna Beach, sounds like your perfect lazy afternoon, then Rosie’s is the place for you.
Got the footy on your mind? In that case, we recommend heading to Takapuna Bar. Find a possie in front of one of the many high-definition televisions, order a round and you’ll be away laughing. Don’t worry if the league and rugby are played at the same time – the TB crew know what they’re doing and will put three different games on at any time in the three rooms.
Florrie McGreal’s is your local neighbourhood pub with ultrafriendly service and honest grub. Gather a team and head along to Tuesday’s quiz nights. If you feel like putting your dancing shoes on, Florrie’s hosts live bands every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. Time to show off your Tik Tok moves.
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
If your mates love a bit of healthy wholefoods, make a beeline for the plentiful indoor tables at Street Organics . Everything on the menu is made from scratch using local organic ingredients wherever possible. Your eyes will feast, and your heart and soul will be nourished from the inside out. If the weather is good, grab a take-out plant-based smoothie with your choice of organic dairy or alternative milks.
Tucking into a bowl of hot ramen is right on-trend and perfect for these colder months. Head to Ajisen Ramen where the vibe is on point with timber décor and Japanese art. You’ll find some fancy-pants exotic ramen options as well as your classic shoyu and miso ramen.
You can check out the FULL list of all the amazing places to eat and drink in Takapuna on our website: ilovetakapuna.co.nz. Happy dining and chatting!
SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Gold sponsors…
The bob is back, baby! The days are getting longer, and it’s time to refresh your spring look. I Love Takapuna has the inside scoop on how to revitalise your locks. With an impressive number of Auckland barbers and hair salons to choose from, you’ll be rocking a new look in no time.
Bob cuts have seen plenty of reinventions over the years and that trend is continuing as celebrities around the world are once again seduced by the bob. Hi, Kim Kardashian and Zendaya!
Let’s be honest, a classic never truly goes out of fashion. If you’re into a chin-grazer or a more rounded soft number, working with a professional stylist will curate a look that can go from day to night with ease.
Or to truly ready yourself for a North Shore summer, why not a beachy bob? Think windswept, salty sea water and sunkissed skin.
Try tipping your hat to old-world beauty with the glam bob – chin length and voluptuous with soft layers to encourage movement. If you prefer a less polished look, try a side parting, air dried and styled with fingers.
If you’re not sure what would be the best look for you, check out Bella Figura which makes each visit unique for your specific hair needs. There’s also Destination Hair Salon, specialising in Asian and European hair.
Balayage might be the colour trend of the 2020s, and it’s still front and centre this year. With gorgeous, natural-looking results, this hair painting technique is low-maintenance and allows plenty of inspiration to revamp your look from season to season. Babylights balayage will serve you with natural-looking, sunkissed hair strands, whereas a smoky silver balayage is the way to go for those wanting a bolder statement.
Book in with Takapuna’s own local colour specialists at Oscar and Co, Morgan and Morgan and Rodney Wayne
Hair accessories are having their moment, so try boosting your outfit with a little something extra.
Whether your hair is up or down, oversized bows and ribbons are dominating this year with their ability to effortlessly blend with contemporary fashion choices. Bring a little classic elegance into your look and have a little fun while you do it.
Zoning in on luxe looks, headbands worn close to the hairline are in and perfect for sleek styled hair.
If your hair is thicker, ask your barber for a pompadour – a variation on short back and sides. It keeps the top thick, lush and groomed to perfection with oodles of old-school style. Or, for something with less maintenance, go for a textured crop or tapered fade. That tidy sides and moppy top look is what this year is all about for the blokes.
Book yourself in for some self-care at Razor Room, Azizi Barbers or Barbershop Co
For more health, hair and beauty salons in Takapuna, check out the full directory of businesses waiting to welcome you on our website: ilovetakapuna.co.nz.
Like and follow @ilovetakapuna on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with all things Takapuna!
PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Platinum sponsors…
An e ortless 30-minute drive from the CBD, this gated community is the North Shore’s best-kept secret. Featuring a stunning white sand beach and spacious sections o ering beautiful sea views. It’s the best of country living, without the commitments of a country lifestyle
100% exclusive. 90% sold. Just 16 large 2000m2 s ections remain, spread over 230 acres of parkland that rolls into native bush and breathtaking coastal lands c apes If it’s room you crave, visit weitibay.nz
At Channel Mag we love celebrating business success, so to hear that our local Pack & Send Takapuna franchise (and regular magazine contributor) has won the brand's Franchisee of the Year award for the second year in a row is heartwarming.
“We were surprised to get the award again this year, going back-to-back,” said owner Jeremy Bain during August. “It’s unusual, but we did achieve a lot over the past 12 months so I guess we were the stand-outs once again this year. We are chuffed as it was a real team effort.”
The Pack & Send Franchisee of the Year award recognises excellence achieved right across the business. That includes contribution to the development of the team and other franchisees; overall financial performance in relation to sales, gross margin and operating profit; marketing and sales initiatives; accuracy and timeliness of submission of all reports to Pack & Send head office; insurance claims and customer complaints experience; presentation and quality of store.
Congratulations Jane, Jeremy and team!
By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna
Pack & Send Takapuna is your "one stop shop" when you need to send artwork, sculptures, ceramics and antiques – anywhere. No matter how large, awkward, valuable or fragile the item is, you can rely on Pack & Send's experienced operators to package it and get it delivered, safely.
Jane and Jeremy Bain, the local franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna have a "No Limits" approach when helping customers solve packaging and freight problems around art and antiques. "Many of the items we have dealt with are valuable," says Jeremy.
"Not only in the monetary sense but because the pieces may have been handed down through the family for generations. They are irreplaceable on so many levels."
It doesn't matter where it's going – New York, London, Sydney, Queenstown – the same care and attention is given to every consignment. "We collect it, package it, take care of the documentation, track it right through to the destination and get it signed for," says Jane.
As well, Pack & Send customers can use their Freight Plus warranty cover against loss or damage to secure that extra peace of mind –something not generally available when freighting artworks.
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."
Pack & Send provides service, systems and packaging to make your freight experience as simple and smooth as possible. You don't need to open an account; they send anything, anywhere and take care of the hassles.
Pack & Send Takapuna supports our client NZ Art Promotions from Devonport at the Art in the Park exhibition again this year from 19-22 September. Held at Eden Park, Art in the Park is a world-class contemporary art show in Auckland's cultural calendar. More than 100 of New Zealand's best artists and 1000 pieces of art will be on display and for sale. At this year's show, go behind the scenes with the artists, hear them talk, watch them create, and be inspired. Tickets start from $19 and can be purchased from artinthepark.co.nz
Pack & Send Takapuna open Mon – Sat, located at 77 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna with exclusive and convenient parking outside. Ph 486 3355 or email takapuna@packsend.co.nz and let them make sending easy.
By Christine Young
Sam Smith is a comedian, MC, podcaster, children’s author, television star, ex-dentist, musician, raconteur extraordinaire – and host and MC of two key events in MS Awareness Week this month. Christine Young tries to keep up as Sam talks about his many and varied talents.
Sam exudes enthusiasm as he talks about the many strands that make up his extraordinarily busy and entertaining life. He was born in Christchurch, but moved to the UK, Nelson and then to the North Shore, where he attended Wairau Intermediate and Westlake Boys’ High School before heading south to Otago to study dentistry. After a short stint in Wellington, he returned to the Shore, where he now lives.
Sam may have trained as a dentist, but before dentistry came comedy and music. As a boy he sang in the Nelson Cathedral choir. (With a name like Sam Smith, he says, you have to be a singer – but he’s not THAT Sam Smith.) He is, however, a Westlaker who sang in the Westlake barbershop quartet for all his five years at the school. At one stage he “did some opera stuff’ but it wasn’t really his thing – bands, playing bass and guitar and “a bit of piano” were more his style.
Comedy started at Westlake too, when he auditioned and got into a comedy show. Through this he learned stand-up, under Jeremy Elwood, his mentor and later colleague on TV3’s ‘7Days’. Comedy, music and writing continued as he studied dentistry, and by the time he graduated he’d been doing the capping show for five years, and loving it.
Dentistry seems an unlikely career partner to the creative arts, but Sam also loved that. The attraction, he says (tongue in cheek?), was that “you can call yourself a doctor but you only work nine to five”. More seriously, he saw it as a way of helping people. “It’s a nice hands-on job,” he says. “The days go really quickly,” and “ripping teeth out” is “strangely fun”, he claims.
Sam may have trained as a dentist, but before dentistry came comedy and music.
After graduation, Sam started practising dentistry in Wellington, and also completed a Master of Arts in Scriptwriting. His comedy writing career also took off, kick-started via a convoluted series of connections to ‘7Days’ which led to writing jokes for the then recently launched programme. “It was a mix of the things I love,” he says, facilitated by working as a dentist four and a half days a week, and devoting Wednesday afternoons to comedy writing. He still has that 7Days job 15 year later, he adds.
One thing led to another: from writing jokes on ‘7Days’, to script-writing for ‘Jono and Ben’, to writing for ‘Sunny Skies’, ‘Family Feud’ and ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and doing audience warm-ups. These in turn led to work
on ‘The Project’ and to what might be called the pinnacle of his tv career to date, appearing on and winning ‘The Traitors’.
Appearing in ‘The Traitors” had a greater impact personally than he had ever imagined it would. He knew it would be “cool”, going away to “play games for 10 days and with so many cool people to hang out with”. And yes, he won the $30,000 prize, with colleague Anna Reeve. But he had entered the programme feeling like an outsider, an underdog, as so many people with disabilities do. “People who have anything different from the ‘norm’ have to show people they’re still [capable]. You have to prove yourself, to society and to yourself,” he says.
It was important to Sam that the other contestants knew he had poor vision and that it was part of his MS. He may even have played on this a little to garner sympathy in the early episodes. But he also wanted to succeed without support. And he did. In one test he was the only person in his group who scored any points. “That emphasised to me that even with a disability I could still be useful, still contribute to the group…. I felt like, with MS, things can still be awesome.” Being able to not only hold his own, but win, “I was so proud of myself. It was a highlight and I think about it still to this day.”
The “warm-up” gigs started when ‘Jono and Ben’ needed an audience warm-up person. No one else was keen to do it, claims Sam modestly, but he “liked meeting new people”, and the warm-up work continues, most recently for the New Zealand Music Awards.
In June 2015 Sam woke one night to find his right leg and arm were numb. Doctors
“managed to put a name to this thing” that had happened to him and he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease of the central nervous system in which the immune system attacks the protective covering of the nerves. Within six weeks he had a second attack and was put onto treatment that reduces the severity of the attacks. Medication has evolved over decade since, and Sam now has an infusion every six months “that keeps things at bay”.
MS is different for each person, says Sam. For some it impacts on their ability to walk; others lose, as Sam initially did, sensation in different parts of the body. For Sam, it resulted in his losing most of his vision.
Sam says MS was the “best thing that ever happened to me” before quickly retracting that as he feels it belittles MS and makes too light of its life-changing impacts. He knows MS can be a devastating diagnosis, especially for people with no knowledge of the condition and/or seriously physically impacted. He was “lucky” in several respects. First, he had knowledge of the disease as his grandfather had had it. Secondly, he had an alternative career to fall back on. “I never did dentistry again once I was diagnosed,” he says. He started doing more work as a warm-up guy, and let his dentistry registration lapse. “I knew I was not going to do that again…. And when I lost my eyesight, it was ’oh cool, I’ve made the right decision’.”
Losing his eyesight opened yet another career door for Sam. He became a children’s author. As his two sons grew, Sam was conscious of not being able to
read bedtime stories. But he could write a poem to recite to them as a bedtime ritual.
He wrote his first book ‘Snake Brought Cake’ as a birthday party poem with Harry (his older son’s name) the hero of a zany zoological party. Sam sent his mother the script to check her reaction. Next thing she’d sent it to a literary agent, and Sam received a call from publishing company Hachette. ‘Snake Brought Cake’ was published in 2022.
Then came ‘Miles and Jones’, a graphic novel for five- to eight-year-olds, in which Sam relives some of his childhood fantasy dreams and adventures, figuring that if the kid in him enjoyed such adventures, so might other kids. The second ‘Miles and Jones’ book will be published next February. Most recently published is ‘Don’t Scare the Dentist’, a clever play on the child-scared-of- dentist scenario; a coalescence of his two career loves, and one with a serious message told in a typically Sam Smith way.
“When I was a dentist, I loved working with kids,” he says. “They’re silly and funny…. I thought of this idea where the dentist was scared of the kids. I wanted to set kids up with the mindset that the dentist is not a scary place to go.” In fact, he notes, it’s the parents who are often scared; he’d spend time joking with the kids, getting their trust, only to have it undone by a parent’s behaviour. He’d love the book to create a generation of kids who are not scared of dentists.
Also in 2017, around the time he lost his sight, Sam received a call from Ingrid Minett, general manager of MS Auckland, asking if he’d help run a fundraising comedy evening. This was a sell-out success, the first of what have become annual sell-out events, and Sam was asked not only to MC another comedy evening, but also become an MS Ambassador, a role that encompasses demystifying MS to the public as well as to those diagnosed with the disease, and hosting and MCing events for MS Auckland.
This month as part of MS Awareness Week, Sam hosts a Comedy Night at the home of
comedy, The Classic, where he did his initial comedy training 21 years ago. As with ‘Don’t Scare the Dentist’, aspects of his life spiral and intersect. A few days later, he MCs the MS Mile and Market.
Sam turns serious for a bit: “There’s probably someone in your life you know but you have no idea they have MS.” Most people think MS is “one size fits all”, an inevitable progression from walking stick to wheelchair. What they don’t know is that some people have one attack and never have another. Others have multiple attacks, with differing impacts for each person and with no inevitable progression of the disease. Sam says his granddad lived with MS until he was 78; the disease has been around a long time and newer medications have more efficacy and fewer side effects.
He exhorts, “if you know someone with MS, ask them about it…, ask if there is any way you can help.” Talking about it can be helpful to you both. Sam is looking forward to talking about his MS during MS Awareness week and any other opportunities he can, while further developing the career he has carved out since his diagnosis. His ambitions once were to be in a sitcom and to write comedy. He’s ticked those off, but next on the horizon, commissioning gods willing, is a – guess what? – tv show about a dentist who gets MS, co-written with television screenwriter Amanda Alison.
He'll keep on with the “craziness” of the ‘Miles and Jones’ books, and he’ll no doubt find time to fit in music, song-writing and a whole lot more comedy, as well as engaging people with the reality and possibilities inherent in living with a disability.
MS Awareness Week 9-15 September:
Sam hosts Comedy Night, Tuesday 11 September, 6.30pm at The Classic 321 Queen St, Auckland CBD
Sam MCs for the MS Mile and Market Saturday 14 September, 11am-1pm at Auckland Domain
Details at msakl.org.nz/whats-happening/
We’re celebrating 20 years of Ecoya with a limited edition release of three of their greatest hits! Available in-store and online in both candles and reed diffusers - and selling fast!! Don’t miss out.
Add a touch of joy to your spring-cleaning with Ecovask! Our mission is to banish manky synthetic dishcloths and evoke the joy of conscience-free living into our daily routines. GOTS-certified organic cotton and non-toxic dyes. Visit our studio at 56 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna or online at ecovask.nz
30 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 419 9535 cravehome.co.nz
Cosy comfort: Sheepskin bean bags are perfect for outdoor relaxation.
34 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 2679
thesheepskinfactory.co.nz
9-5pm Mon - Sat, 10-5pm Sundays
Style a serene sleep sanctuary with soft abstract blooms in hushed tones. Offering gentle pattern and colour, Serendipity organic cotton bed linen features a hand-painted design showcasing the beauty of washed watercolour hues. Visit our Takapuna location at 156 Hurstmere Road to see and shop our collections in person. 156 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, 09 551 7767 wallacecotton.com
Spring is in the air and we certainly had a spring in our step after the recent Floral Windows to the World Championship at Singapore Garden Festival. Check out our socials for more.
60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz
Perfect gifts for friends and family. Check out our other amazing photo gift ideas at: shorephotogifts.co.nz
Gorgeous new The Shanty Corporation has arrived in the most divine sage check. Handcrafted quality cotton and linen fabric. Roll on spring!
73 Victoria Road, Devonport, 021 247 2469
cosifantutte.co.nz
Instagram @cosifantutte_devonport
Enjoy a cooler finish with Resene CoolColour Planning to use a dark coloured paint or wood stain on your home? Choose a Resene CoolColour finish that will help reflect more heat and keep your place cooler. Available in a wide range of colours and products from your local Resene ColorShop. Wall finished in Resene Half Nocturnal.
Cnr Tawa Drive and Rosedale Road, Albany, 09 414 6500 25 Constellation Drive, Mairangi Bay, 09 476 3957 8 Croftfield Lane, Wairau Park, 09 444 4387
Spring is in the air at Painted Bird Vintage. Delight in our stunning curation of authentic, unique vintage clothing and accessories from Europe and beyond. Book to visit The Aviary, our bespoke fitting room experience and browse our store online for the best of truly sustainable 'good' fashion - use CH24 for a treat!
1 Titoki Place, Albany (by appointment) Follow @paintedbirdnz online paintedbird.nz
Looking for luxurious beauty and spa treatments? Umile Brow & Beauty is the place to be. Indulge in one of their many treatment options, including eye enhancement services, facial treatments, face and body waxing, and more. Visit their beautiful new salon, conveniently located on Level 3 by Farmers. Shop 341, Level 3, Glenfield Mall umile.co.nz, 0800 000 666 Instagram: umile_nz Facebook: UmileNz
The Gordon Smith rib waist linen pants are going to be your favourite pair of pants during the upcoming warmer months. They’re our bestselling linen pants here at Yarntons!.
18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, 09 418 4011
69 Victoria Road, Devonport, 09 445 3479 yarntons.co.nz
In today's unpredictable market, businesses face ever-changing challenges. Adaptability - the ability to respond - has become more crucial than ever. Elena Christodoulou, leasing specialist at B:HIVE Smales Farm, explains that as a result, many businesses are exploring flexibility as a key strategy and looking beyond traditional office spaces. While flexibility is often thought of as meaning remote or hybrid working models for employees, for business owners it is an astute business strategy.
A space that can respond to market challenges is a fantastic business asset - and that’s exactly what is offered at B:HIVE Smales Farm. Here, businesses share high-quality facilities like kitchens, dining areas, collaborative spaces and meeting pods, whilst also enjoying the privacy of dedicated offices. Says Christodoulou, “Many businesses expect some level of cost efficiency with shared spaces, but they don't expect to find a calibre of space as high as what B:HIVE offers. These are stateof-the-art facilities where every detail has been thought of. Flexibility is the cherry on top but also absolutely at the core of our thinking.”
“Business is dynamic,” says Christodoulou. "We have seen a lot of change lately. Some of our members are growing and need more space, while others are strategically reducing their footprint.”
Christodoulou expects interest in flexibility to only increase as businesses explore different ways of working. “An increasing number of businesses today offer some form of hybrid working. At B:HIVE, organisations are realising the full potential of shared space and how it can be used to strengthen business outcomes and drive efficiency,” she explains.
One innovative example is businesses that have desk numbers for less than the full team size, utilising B:HIVE’s unique desk and membership model. "In that case, team members work on certain days of the week and then come together for collaboration or team-building opportunities. Other B:HIVE members enjoy a secure office with desks for each staff member, prioritising working together physically as a team most days. It's really interesting to see how our members use the model," Christodoulou adds.
Flexibility in leasing allows businesses to expand or contract as needed. Christodoulou notes that over 60% of businesses within B:HIVE have changed shape during their tenancy, leveraging the opportunity of adaptable workspaces.
Modular design and short-term licenses mean that offices can be reconfigured to suit changing needs. This flexibility is not just convenient but also sustainable, eliminating waste typically associated with traditional office moves or renovations. The ability to adapt without leaving a large environmental footprint is increasingly important for many.
In anticipation of increased demand for flexible working environments, B:HIVE is expanding its shared space offering with the highly anticipated B:HIVE+ opening in early 2025. Elena encourages any businesses interested in finding out more to express interest at bhive.co.nz
B:HIVE is also hiring. Check out B:HIVE socials for more information if you are interested in joining the team!
Boasting a powerful engine and a precise chassis and suspension setup, the BMW X2 M35i xDrive offers outstanding performance, a factor that is also unequivocally reflected in the design of the M model. Find out more about the BMW X2 M35i xDrive, and experience the unique combination of sportiness and everyday practicality.
Our round-up of posts from local stores on IG that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Stephanie from @paintedbirdnz
Stephanie King is a North Shore local who has called Campbells Bay home since 1982. As the founder of Painted Bird Vintage and The Aviary, a vintage store with over 5,000 unique pieces, Stephanie has woven her lifelong passion for vintage fashion into a thriving business that celebrates sustainability and style. From childhood days spent dressing up in 1940s and 1950s ball gowns to borrowing her stylish mother’s outfits for nights out, Stephanie always loved fashion. This passion for finding pieces with a ‘je ne sais quoi’ is what sparked her dedication to sustainable fashion, a commitment that has grown stronger with every passing year. Channel Mag talked to Stephanie about all things @paintedbirdnz
Channel Mag: Tell us a little bit about your business and how it came about…
Stephanie King: Painted Bird Vintage has evolved with the changing tides of the retail landscape, transitioning from a beloved bricks-and-mortar store to an online haven, and now, a blend of both with popups and bespoke fitting experiences. The result is The Aviary, a by-appointment bespoke fitting room service that ensures Painted Bird Vintage remains accessible, no matter what challenges arise. Whether you’re looking for a timeless piece that fits seamlessly into your modern wardrobe or a statement item that speaks to your unique style, Painted Bird Vintage offers a curated collection of high-end, on-trend vintage fashion. Each piece contributes to a smaller fashion footprint, embodying the brand’s dedication to sustainability. Is Instagram a source of inspiration for you? Who do you recommend following and why?
For me, Instagram is more than just a social platform, it’s a source of endless inspiration. The ‘gram’ is essential for raising the bar on vintage fashion in New Zealand. I love @1stdibsstyle, @vintagefashionguild, and @thevintageseeker, each one offering a unique perspective on the world of vintage fashion. I also follow sustainable fashion advocates like @mindfulfashionnz, @usefullyworld, and @fash_rev_newzealand to stay connected with the latest industry trends. Locally, I am inspired by @nzhviva and the creative team behind Viva and Canvas. Another favourite is @keertisiagphotography, whose collaboration with other local artists brings fresh, creative energy to the scene.
Which other local businesses do social media well?
I love when businesses have a genuine connection with their customers and Browns Bay’s @bathboutiquenz does that. Leanne, the owner, posts regularly with such warmth and authenticity, offering a wonderful array of thoughtful gifts.
Visit the Painted Bird Vintage paintedbird.nz Follow in Instagram: @paintedbirdnz on Instagram or Facebook
Rotisserie meals with Well Hung meats. Sign us up! They take orders in person and over the phone. Easy and delicious, dinner sorted! @wellhungbutcher1
Loving the recipes from Lalcool.nz, the new retail store where Fine Wine Delivery used to be on Constellation Drive. Love the sound of this nutty espresso martini! @lalcool.nz
The first years at school have a significant impact on how children feel about learning and how they engage with it for the rest of their lives. That’s why at Kristin Junior School, we’ve created a welcoming and caring environment where every student is known, nurtured and extended as an individual.
We carefully limit our class sizes to give our students more one-on-one time with their dedicated homeroom teacher. Our students also benefit from our traditional learning environment, with single-cell classrooms where they can focus and thrive.
To find out more about Kristin Junior School, visit kristin.school.nz or email admissions@kristin.school.nz
In March 2025, B:HIVE extends with the opening of B:HIVE + in AIA House, Smales Farm. With state-of-the-art facilities, principles of flexibility, adaptability and the full suite of B:HIVE benefits, B:HIVE + is built for business.
The Milford Village Business Association has taken on the important role of forming an emergency response management group for the Milford catchment. This is in response to the problems that arose from the terrible flooding Auckland suffered last year. Every community is asked to stand up a local team.
I have invited many local organisations to meet and set up a high-level group using a template that has been used in many other communities. If you are part of a group or organisation that would like to be involved, please email “MERM” to manager@milfordshops.co.nz. Please, no individuals (it must be an organisation) and just to be clear, this has nothing to do with resolving the outstanding issues from those disastrous floods.
This is not creating another bureaucratic organisation, but rather a phone tree using WhatsApp that enables the community to get hold of wide variety of resources for whatever emergency arises. It is not intended to be an organisation that has regular meetings with ‘makebelieve’ scenarios. Just a practical group of organisations that can be mobilised at short notice, as and when required.
Shop in Milford over the next three months and BE IN TO WIN one of three $200 ‘Dine Out in Milford’ packages. You choose which of our 25 establishments you want to go to, and we organise the rest for you! Simply spend $20 or more in any Milford restaurant/bar/takeaways at night, or any of our other fantastic Milford businesses and you can enter the draw. Three ways to enter: Entry forms, QR code or go to our website and type ‘Dine Out’ in the search box. Hold onto your Milford receipt for over $20 for when we call. Must be taken within the next month.
What’s on in Milford in September
Milford Motel
• Quiz night - every Tuesday night 7pm
• Pizza Thursdays - $20 pizzas all day!
• Saturday 28 September - its our first birthday. Celebrate! Milford Cruising Club
• Trivia Quiz night every Thursday night 7.30pm – meal starts at 7pm
• Friday night is ‘Dinner Night’ from 7pm
• Friday 27 September - live music with Serene Boulton The Hub - Bar & Grill
• Quiz night every Thursday night 7.30pm
• Live music every Friday night
• Open Mic every Sunday from 4pm On The Rocks
• Open mic Wednesday 8pm
• Thursday poker night 7pm
• Friday live music at 8pm
• Saturday Karaoke
• Happy hour every day 4pm-7pm Milford Beach Pizza
• ‘Wicked’ Wednesday $20 pizza night. Dine-in or takeaway. Pym’s of Milford
• Live Music - Every Friday night
• 6 Sept Jim Joll • 13 Sept Jake Pancho
• 20 Sept Jim Joll • 27 Sept Jake Pancho
Murray Hill, Manager, Milford Business Association, manager@milfordshops.co.nz. 021 950 463. milfordshops.co.nz Facebook milfordshops Instagram milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV
Traveling solo can be one of the most rewarding experiences, offering a unique blend of freedom, adventure, and selfdiscovery. For solo travellers, tours designed specifically for individuals who prefer to explore on their own but enjoy the structure and camaraderie of a group setting provide the perfect balance.
Shore Travel can offer a selection of tours that cater to the needs and desires of solo adventurers, allowing them to immerse themselves in new cultures, meet like-minded travellers, and explore destinations with the guidance and support of expert tour leaders. Whether you’re seeking to connect with fellow travellers or simply want the peace of mind that comes with an organised itinerary, solo travel tours offer a safe and enriching way to see the world on your own terms.
Solo travel tour highlights:
Innovative Travel has tours for women to both Egypt and India. Their tours place great importance on ensuring your time exploring destinations is memorable.
Wendy Wu Tours has a variety of options for solo travellers on a wide range of Asia tours; opt for their dedicated solo departures, enjoy a single room on their entire collection of tours, or explore their “happy to share” option.
Intrepid Tours has Women’s Expeditions that are all about breaking down barriers, fostering discussion and creating immersive local experiences for women that are ordinarily off limits on our regular group departures.
See the world on your terms Bespoke travel packages, tailormade in Milford.
Like you, we love travel. The chance to discover new, exciting places, and create memories that last a lifetime. Shore Travel is here to help you explore the world, your way.
Cnr Kitchener & Milford Roads, Milford hello@shoretravel.co.nz (09) 489 2597 www.shoretravel.co.nz
Escorted French tailor-made tour for women, departs
June 2025
We are so pleased to announce Shore Travel’s inaugural Solo Traveller tour designed and led by our very own Collette Dumont. This tour to France is especially for females who would like to experience the French culture and cuisine with a group of likeminded women.
Travel from Auckland via Singapore to France. Experience the best of Champagne, Avignon, Cannes, Monaco and Paris. Optional extension to Florence and Rome, then own arrangements. This exclusive tour takes in the best of France, with three nights in Paris, including an Alone Mona Lisa Louvre Tour and Versaille Skip the Line Tour; two nights in Reims with visits to two Champagne houses; travel by train to Avignon and stay for two nights. The last three nights are spent in Cannes with a day trip to Monte Carlo.
Email hello@shoretravel.co.nz or phone 09 489 2597 to learn more about Collette’s French tour or any other solo traveller tour or cruise options.
Regular-Sized Coffee - from $6.20
Grab a bite and co ee at Café Etage. Serving up delicious cabinet food and quality brews, it’s the go-to spot for a quick and satisfying break.
MINISO
Barbie Toys - see in-store for prices
Discover the cutest toys and plushies at Miniso! From adorable collectibles to huggable plushies, this is your new go-to for playful gifts and fun finds.
Eyebrow Threading - from $13
Get flawlessly shaped brows with expert threading at Vish Beauty Bar. Quick, precise and gentle – perfect for achieving that polished look.
Pant Hemming - from $25
Discover how expert tailoring at LookSmart can perfect your wardrobe and fashion needs. Their alternations service is a top choice for achieving a refined, smart look.
Discover, Delight, Shop, Enjoy!
Coach Eyeglasses - see in-store for prices
Elevate your eyewear game at Optique Eyecare. Discover a range of stylish, a ordable designer glasses, including these chic Coach frames. Optique o ers a perfect combination of sophisticated style and great value.
THE GELATO WORKSHOP
Deluxe Sundaes - from $14.99
Indulge in The Gelato Workshop’s deluxe sundaes, featuring the irresistible Nutella Banana Sundae. With rich Nutella and Bano ee Pie gelato, decadent toppings, and a perfect blend of flavours, it’s a must-try treat for any dessert enthusiast!
THE PHOTO STUDIO LED Light - $79
Light up your space with The Photo Studio’s personalized LED light. Featuring a custom-printed design, this illuminated piece adds a unique and personal touch to any room.
Acupuncture - see in-store for prices
Master Clinic o ers a range of e ective treatments, including acupuncture. Discover how this popular therapy can support your well-being and address your health needs.
Give the perfect present every time!
SPRING INTO ACTION THESE SPRING INTO ACTION THESE
ROAMING CHARACTERS AND MORE ACTIVITIES TO BE ANNOUNCED | | | Sat 28 Sep – Sun 13 Oct
FACE PAINTING ARTS & CRAFTS BOUNCY CASTLE
Indulge in luxurious beauty & spa treatments at UMILE Brow & Beauty
Located on Level 3 by Farmers
Located on LEVEL 3 by Chemist Warehouse
Talking about your bowels and motions (poo!) can be embarrassing. But it can also save your life.
New Zealand has one of the highest rates of bowel cancer in the world. With over eight patients diagnosed per day, it is the second most common cancer diagnosed in New Zealand, and the second most common cause of cancer death. Unfortunately, by the time it is diagnosed, over a quarter of cases are metastatic. (Cancer cells have spread throughout the body.)
It is increasingly being diagnosed in younger people. In fact, over 30% of cases are diagnosed in people less than 60 years old.
So how can we change this?
If you notice persistent:
• changes in your normal toileting habits: frequency or consistency of your bowel motions
• abdominal (stomach) pains
• cramping or bloating
• blood when you pass stools, These need to be investigated and checked out.
The additional difficulty with bowel cancer is that it may have none of these symptoms to start with. In up to half of all cases diagnosed, people will not notice any of these issues. This is where screening can be useful – a test taken when you have no symptoms at all to check for blood in the stool that you can’t see with the eye. In New Zealand, this is offered at age 60. However, I believe and support Bowel Cancer NZ’s view that this should be offered a lot younger, as it is in many countries including Australia and USA where it starts at age 45.
This is because bowel cancer is a very preventable disease. Polyps (small warty outgrowths which are precursors to colon cancer) can be seen and removed during a colonoscopy. In this way, a single colonoscopy can reduce your future chance of developing bowel cancer by over 90%. A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves placing a thin tube with a light and camera into the bowel where any issues can be identified.
At Waitemata Endoscopy, taking this proactive approach is easy. We accept GP, specialist, and self-referrals via our website. Come to talk to us or your GP to learn more.
We can offer appointments within seven working days by matching you with the availability of our experienced specialists.
Dr Cameron Schauer, Gastroenterologist & Endoscopist, MBChB 2013, FRACP 2020
To meet the team at Waitemata Endoscopy and explore the clinic video tours, please visit waitemataendoscopy.co.nz
can provide timely access to Colonoscopy & Gastroscopy for your peace of mind
With increased capacity, Waitemata Endoscopy offers greater access to a group of experienced Gastroenterologists and Surgeons, dedicated to providing excellent endoscopy care.
Appointments are available within 7 working days for most standard Colonoscopy & Gastroscopy procedures by matching patients with the availability of our Specialists.*
Talk to your GP about a referral to the Waitemata Endoscopy Group, or you can self -refer via: www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/referrals
Or call us on (09) 925 4449 // 53 Lincoln Rd, Henderson // 212 Wairau Rd, Wairau Valley
By Nova Edgcombe BSc RDH
At Mint Dental Hygiene, we believe that health is a holistic concept that encompasses mind, body and spirit. Dental care plays a crucial role in this interconnected system, and our approach is designed to support your overall wellbeing.
By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.
Do you have hearing aids but they are not working as well as you had hoped? Do you know someone who has hearing aids but doesn’t wear them? Top tips to get the most benefit from hearing aids:
Oral health significantly impacts mental health and vice versa. Poor oral hygiene can lead to chronic conditions like gum disease, which is linked to anxiety and depression. Conversely, mental health issues can result in neglect of oral hygiene, creating a vicious cycle. At Mint Dental Hygiene, we focus on breaking this cycle by providing compassionate care that addresses both physical and emotional needs. Regular dental visits not only keep your mouth healthy but also contribute to better mental health by reducing anxiety and boosting self-esteem.
Physical health benefits
Your oral health is a window to your overall health. Conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and respiratory infections are closely linked to oral health. Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream, affecting other parts of the body. By maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular cleanings, you can prevent these complications and enjoy a healthier life. Our comprehensive dental care includes preventative measures, early detection of issues and personalised treatment plans to keep your body in optimal health.
Spiritual wellbeing
A healthy smile can profoundly impact your spirit. Confidence in your smile encourages positive interactions and enhances your overall sense of wellbeing. At Mint Dental Hygiene, we aim to foster a nurturing environment where patients feel valued and cared for. Our holistic approach ensures that you leave our office with a smile that reflects your inner vitality and spirit.
Health matters at Mint Dental Hygiene, where we prioritise the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit. Our comprehensive dental care goes beyond just treating teeth; it’s about enhancing your overall wellbeing. Schedule your appointment today and experience how our holistic approach can contribute to a healthier, happier you. Your journey to complete wellness starts with a healthy smile.
Nova Edgcombe
BSc, RDH
Lake Road, Takapuna 021 2306517
1. Wear your hearing aids every day. Consistent use gets your brain used to the sound and feel of them in your ears. You will do better when you're in a difficult listening environment if you are used to everyday sounds at home. Even a few hours a day helps form good habits.
2. Have your hearing and the instruments checked every year. It is important to keep tabs on any changes in hearing. Your hearing aids also need to be serviced and adjusted annually. Book in to see your audiologist, or give us a call. Swapping providers is no problem.
3. Don’t put up with discomfort. If your hearing aids hurt or if you are struggling to manage them, contact your audiologist immediately.
4. Keep your hearing aids clean and dry. Wipe them with a dry tissue or lowlint cloth after use. Be sure to keep them dry. Wax and moisture are the two most common causes of hearing aid malfunction.
5. Keep on top of wax removal. Wearing hearing aids can exacerbate wax buildup in your ears. Get your ears checked and book in for regular wax removal if needed.
With over two decades of experience each, Teresa Burns and Anne Toth offer independent advice and thorough reviews of your current hearing aids. We love listening and helping you get the best from your hearing aids.
By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist
The last Sunday in September is the much-anticipated start of daylight saving. We give up an hour of sleep for an hour of daylight, but as the year goes on we get progressively more daylight anyway. Depending on where you are in the country there’s five to seven hours of difference in total daylight hours between June and December.
As we move through springtime, most people find it progressively easier to exercise. More evening daylight gives more opportunities to exercise outside after work. The lost hour of daylight in the morning is soon compensated for by the growing amount of total daylight. As the weather warms up it also becomes easier to consider morning exercise. More daylight means more vitamin D and this affects a variety of different areas of physical and mental health; bone density, immunity, disease prevention, mood and appetite. So the good news is that the end of September puts us on the trajectory to better times, but the bad news is that there’s a bit of a time lag.
The move to daylight saving can throw out your circadian rhythm, the 24-hour internal clock that’s running in your brain’s hypothalamus. This clock is very reliant on light for cues. A sudden change, even just an hour, can disrupt healthy hormone production, particularly when combined with the sleep deprivation associated with moving into daylight saving. Many people experience challenges to mood, appetite and metabolic rate following the shift. It’s common to feel tired, unmotivated and prone to overeating. In addition to this, many people are coming up towards the change of clocks with unsettled sleep from Covid hangover. It’s very common to suffer insomnia, brain fog and fatigue.
Fortunately a good exercise regime can assist on all fronts. It helps regulate your confused clock by supporting the appropriate release of the hormones needed for settled sleep. You need a balance of melatonin (sleep hormone) and cortisol (stress hormone). Melatonin needs to peak at night for you to wind down and cortisol needs to peak in the morning for you to perk up. Exercise not only promotes more restful sleep, it also helps bring your internal clock back to equilibrium.
Exercise also helps with the mental grogginess associated with the shift to daylight saving. It stimulates human growth hormone (HGH) which encourages the regeneration of brain cells. It also promotes the production of the four happy hormones that impact how you feel: endorphins (the euphoria hormone), serotonin (the security hormone), dopamine (the motivation hormone) and oxytocin (the bonding hormone).
If you’ve been a bit sedentary over the winter months then it’s a good idea to start easing back into exercise before the daylight saving transition occurs. As with all transitions, the best type of exercise to help you is the one you enjoy most. Just get your blood circulating; you can worry about the correct balance of strength/cardio/flexibility once you’re settled into the summer time-zone. If you’ve had Covid any time in the last couple of months it’s particularly important to go gently with intensity to avoid the risk of Long Covid. Resuming appropriate exercise is important for regaining muscle strength and cardiovascular capacity, and for resilience in case you get sick again.
Your body is designed to move about during the day and sleep soundly at night. Appropriate exercise gives you physical and mental resilience. You’ll need this for the daylight saving transition but it’s useful for all areas of life.
Les Mills Takapuna, Rooftop Level, Shore City, Takapuna
0800 LES MILLS lesmills.co.nz clairebellingham.co.nz claire@clairebellingham.co.nz
Jim and Norie Bregman, Directors and owners of Suna Pilates
The Reformer is an iconic piece of exercise equipment created by Joseph Pilates to help heal injuries and re-form the body, thus the name. Essentially, it is a padded platform on a bed-like frame that slides back and forth on wheels.
The platform, called a carriage, is attached at one end by a set of springs. To move the carriage, you either push against a padded foot bar located at the spring end of the carriage or pull against ropes attached via pulleys at the opposite end of the carriage. Both legs and arms can be used for pushing and pulling. Also, there is a detachable jump board that lets you push off with your feet while lying on your back to simulate jumping in the air, which is quite fun. The springs can be adjusted to increase or decrease the resistance and make the carriage easier or harder to move. Surprisingly, some exercises are more difficult with fewer springs engaged.
The beauty of the Reformer is its flexibility and versatility; you can push and pull forwards, backwards or sideways with either your arms or your legs while you lie, sit, kneel or stand on the carriage. You can put your hands or your feet in the straps or use one hand and one foot. The foot bar allows you to push with your feet and pull with your arms at the same time. With some exercises, you use the straps while standing or kneeling on the floor. The possible combinations of movements are almost endless, allowing trainers to dial in on the exact muscles or movements that need attention.
Reformer workouts have zero impact, and the pulley-and-spring system offers variable resistance to match your ability. Thus, two people working side by side doing the same exercise on identical Reformers can experience vastly different intensities of workouts.
Using a Reformer enables you to attain better posture and coordination, move more gracefully and efficiently, avoid injuries, and find relief from back pain. The resistive movements help build stronger bones and long, strong muscles without bulk. What’s not to love?
Want to try a Reformer? Purchase a Suna Intro Pack, which gives you three Reformer and three Fit classes, for only $60. Additional Intro Packs are available at sunapilates.co.nz
The arrival of spring beckons us back to the great outdoors for adventures with family and friends. It is a great time to get reacquainted with the importance of skin health and being sunsafe. Our local skin cancer experts at SkinCheck have valuable tips for protecting your skin while getting the most out of the warmer weather.
How can skin cancer be prevented?
New Zealand has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Our location, climate and lifestyle put us at high risk, so it's essential to make sun-safe practices a part of our daily routine.
Skin cancer is caused by a range of factors. Some, like your age, complexion, and the number of moles you have, are beyond your control. However, the extent and nature of your exposure to damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays from our harsh sun is largely up to you.
You can take easy steps to protect your skin by using good quality sunscreen and covering up with high ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rated clothing, especially between 10am and 4pm, and whenever the UV index (UVI) exceeds 3. You can find the current UVI on the weather app on your mobile phone, or on the NIWA website, niwa.co.nz.
Which sunscreen is right for me?
Sunscreen can protect your skin from UV damage, but choosing the right one and using it correctly is important to get the benefits. There are four key factors in choosing the right sunscreen for you:
• Spectrum
The two main types of harmful UV radiation are UVA and UVB. Choose a sunscreen that protects you from both. These sunscreens are typically labelled 'broad-spectrum' and have both UVA and UVB logos. UVA radiation causes aging effects such as wrinkling, and UVB causes sunburn and skin cancer.
• Sun protection factor (SPF)
The SPF rating solely measures protection against UVB rays. An SPF50+ sunscreen blocks more than 98% of harmful UVB and is recommended. Sunscreens with higher SPF can tend to feel thicker.
• Ingredients
The two types of sunscreen ingredients are physical or chemical. Physical sunscreens contain zinc or titanium and are best for individuals with sensitive skin (eg eczema or acne) and children. Chemical sunscreens tend to give a better cosmetic result as they become more transparent after application. Individuals without sensitive skin can use either type. Some
• Formulation
Sunscreens come in lotion, roll-on or spray formulations. Lotions and roll-ons are easier to apply evenly on your skin and allow for better coverage.
SkinCheck has an excellent selection of sunscreens and testers and our friendly team can help you find the one that's best for you.
Do skin cancers only grow on sun-exposed skin?
Although UV exposure is the most significant modifiable risk factor for developing skin cancers, there are many other important factors that require consideration. Common skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma tend to be found in highly sun-exposed areas such as the face, arms and legs. However, melanomas which are less common but higher risk, can arise in individuals without high UV exposure or on parts of the body that are seldom exposed to the sun.
Who needs regular skin checks?
Having regular skin checks is an important part of managing your overall health. Skin cancers can be cured with less-invasive treatments when detected early.
Individuals with one or more of the following are recommended to
have full-body skin checks annually:
• Have had previous skin cancer
• Outdoor work or hobbies that result in high levels of UV exposure
• Fair skin, particularly if you sunburn easily and rarely tan
• Have light coloured eyes (blue or green), or hair (red or blonde)
• Have a high number of moles or freckles
• Have new or changing moles
• Are aged 50 years and older
You can find our friendly team in our modern clinic, conveniently located at 4 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, with onsite parking and easy access.
Book now for your full skin check and advice on skin cancer prevention ahead of the great Kiwi spring and summer ahead!
SkinCheck
4 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna (ground floor, southwest entrance) 09 443 6266 reception@skincheck.co.nz skincheck.co.nz
In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become a common part of our lives. While many people are aware of the effects of stress on their overall health, fewer realise the impact it can have on their teeth.
Stress can lead to habits such as clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism), which can cause significant dental problems over time. Bruxism can affect your whole body with muscle and postural strain loading of your hips and knees.
Why it happens: Bruxism often occurs subconsciously, especially during sleep. Several factors can contribute to this habit including
stress, anxiety and misaligned teeth. When your teeth do not bite together properly, it can put extra strain on your jaw muscles, leading to clenching and grinding. This constant pressure can wear down teeth, leading to the need for fillings, crowns or even extractions. Additionally, it can cause existing dental work to fail prematurely and can contribute to misalignment of the teeth, making orthodontic treatment necessary.
Treatment options: The good news is that there are several ways to prevent and manage bruxism. At North Shore Dental, we offer custommade night guards, also known as splints, to protect your teeth while you sleep. These devices help to distribute the pressure evenly across your teeth, reducing the damage caused by grinding. For those with misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatment can correct the bite, alleviating the underlying cause of bruxism.
We also offer Dysport® which is used to provide relief from headaches, jaw pain and other side effects of bruxism. Dysport® is placed into the masseter muscle (the main muscle for biting and chewing). The muscle is temporarily weakened which prevents the muscle from clenching involuntarily while you sleep. This greatly reduces the painful side effects of bruxism.
In some cases, occlusal adjustments may be necessary to ensure that your teeth fit together properly. This may involve reshaping the surfaces of your teeth or using crowns and bridges to restore balance.
Stress is an unavoidable part of life, but the impact on your teeth doesn’t have to be. By addressing these issues early, we can help you maintain a healthy, pain-free smile. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at North Shore Dental – we’re committed to supporting your dental health every step of the way.
North Shore Dental
Corner of Anzac and Beach Roads, Browns Bay 09 478 7442
info@northshoredental.co.nz northshoredental.co.nz
Visage offers beneficial advice on skincare during perimenopause and menopause.
The feeling that you need to overhaul your skincare routine is not necessary to manage your skin's health during menopause or perimenopause, because 'menopausal' is NOT a skin type. However, you will find it very beneficial to use certain ingredients that will support your skin's needs during the stages of perimenopause through to menopause.
You may be wondering what happens to your skin during this time, so a brief explanation may be helpful.
Oestrogen stimulates collagen production which means that as your oestrogen levels begin to decline, skin begins to lose volume and elasticity. It is at this time that we notice the texture of the skin changes, becoming less smooth. Skin can begin to sag too, with fine lines becoming more visible and we notice that hyper-pigmentation can also become an issue.
With declining oestrogen levels, there is also a reduction in ceramide production. Ceramides are produced to maintain your skin's barrier function; without them, the skin cannot hold moisture very well and becomes dry, sensitive and irritated.
Now that we understand how menopausal skin reacts, let’s look at some ingredients and products that can help you navigate your way back to healthy skin.
First up would be a good SPF 50 that has hydrating properties for prevention, like the Ultraceuticals Hydrating SPF 50.
Next up would be adding some antioxidants into your skin routine, like a firming vitamin C serum in the morning, followed by a brightening serum containing melanin inhibitors and brightening properties to give you back that glow.
Then in the evening you could add retinol into your routine. I love the Ultraceuticals A serum to plump and stimulate collagen production. Follow this with a combination of niacinamide and pro-vitamin B5 with hyaluronic acid, and you have a great combination to not only hydrate but to improve the texture and thickness of your skin too.
If you would like to find out more, feel free to call or email us, and Sarah and I would be happy to help you work out what’s best for your skin.
Le Visage, Level 1, 161 Kitchener Road, Milford 09 486 6880 info@levisage.co.nz levisage.co.nz Facebook @levisage, Instagram @levisage
Clinic hours: Tue, Wed, Fri: 11am-5pm Thu: 11am-8pm Sat: 9am-1pm
In the heart of Takapuna, The Right Fit stands as a beacon of fitness and wellness for those over 40. The Right Fit was born out of a desire to provide a tailored fitness experience for an age group often overlooked by mainstream gyms. The Takapuna branch is one of four studios across Auckland offering an exceptional exercise and lifestyle option for the more mature members of our communities.
The Right Fit Takapuna is owned by local resident Chris Wilde. Chris’s journey in the fitness industry is marked by a genuine commitment to improving the lives of his clients, particularly those who are taking the first steps to start or get back into training after a long period away. He loves working with the local people who make up The Right Fit’s incredible community.
“I’m incredibly proud of the life-changing results our community achieves, especially those who initially feel unmotivated and convinced their best days are behind them. My team cares greatly about the results our clients aspire to, and through clear planning within a welcoming environment, not only are the results we achieve fantastic, but we have plenty of fun and create many friendships along the way. If anyone is unsure of what it might take to thrive beyond their 40s, struggling to get motivated, and looking for a non-threatening environment in which to focus on themselves, I believe our community is absolutely 'The Right Fit' for you.”
The Right Fit is focused on long-term health. It is not just a gym, it’s a community where members feel supported, challenged and motivated to become their best selves. What sets it apart from other fitness centres, is its holistic, personalised approach to fitness. With no one-size-fits-all programmes, The Right Fit specialises in customised training plans designed specifically for individuals aged 40 and above. The programmes are not just about lifting weights or running on a treadmill, they are about building functional strength, improving mobility and enhancing overall wellness in a way that is sustainable and enjoyable.
Each member receives a goal-setting and programming session every eight weeks, a personalised nutrition plan and access to all four of The Right Fit locations across Auckland: Takapuna, Ponsonby, Epsom and Shortland Street in the CBD. Additionally, The Right Fit members can participate in a full schedule of complimentary group classes that create a dynamic and supportive environment, where everyone can thrive. The commitment to individualised care and long-term results is what makes The Right Fit the right choice for those who want to not only maintain but improve their health and fitness as they age.
Linda, a teacher at Kristin School and a North Shore local, started her journey with The Right Fit in her 60s. She describes her experience: "Starting at The Right Fit at 63 has truly been life-changing. I thought I was reasonably fit after years at another gym, but I was carrying extra weight and needed a change. Over the course of a year, I lost 17kg, gained strength and developed a level of fitness and definition I hadn’t seen since my 30s. Even when I fractured my wrist early on, my trainer Matt worked around my injury, ensuring I continued to progress towards my goals. The result? Renewed energy, a positive outlook, and the confidence to look forward to an active, energetic future."
David, a Milford resident and another enthusiastic member reflects on his experience: "The Right Fit Takapuna has brought both an internal and external smile to my life. On a scale of 1 to 10, it's a solid 15! The time with my trainer Chris, and the group classes have become such a priority that I plan everything else around them whenever possible. Whether it’s my personalised training sessions or my own cardio time, I wouldn’t trade it for anything."
To celebrate the success of our members and welcome new ones into the fold, Chris is excited to offer the following special promotion at The Right Fit Takapuna:
Sign up for a 6-month membership today, and you’ll receive your first two weeks absolutely free!
This is the perfect opportunity to experience The Right Fit difference first-hand and start your journey to a healthier, happier you. Don't miss out - this offer is available for a limited time only.
Join The Right Fit Takapuna, where age is just a number, and let us help you achieve the fitness goals you've always dreamed of.
The Right Fit
Chris Wilde 022 459 7841 chris@therightfit.co.nz 17 Huron Street, Takapuna therightfit.co.nz
By Kirsten Taylor, Naturopathic Sleep Specialist, Managing Director, Founder
Sleep is often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of modern life, but it stands as one of the most crucial pillars of health for every member of the family, from the youngest child to the eldest grandparent. It is not just a time of rest, but a vital process that rejuvenates the body, mind and soul. Understanding why sleep is the best elixir of health can encourage families to prioritise it, which not only leads to better health but also a more harmonious home.
Firstly, sleep plays an essential role in physical health. During sleep, the body repairs itself, rebuilding muscles and tissues and synthesising proteins that are crucial for growth and repair. This is particularly important for children and teenagers, whose bodies are in a constant state of development. For adults, sufficient sleep aids in the maintenance of a healthy immune system, reduces the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes and obesity, and promotes longevity. For the elderly, quality sleep helps manage inflammation, supports cognitive function, and can even reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. In essence, sleep acts as a natural remedy that supports and maintains physical health across all ages.
During sleep, the body repairs itself, rebuilding muscles and tissues and synthesising proteins that are crucial for growth and repair.
Cognitively, sleep is indispensable for brain function. During sleep, the brain processes and consolidates memories, enhances learning and supports mental sharpness. For children, this is critical as it affects their ability to learn, concentrate and solve problems in school. For adults, sleep helps in decision-making, emotional regulation and stress management. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, poor concentration and impaired judgment, which can strain family relationships and work-life balance. For seniors, sleep is important for maintaining cognitive clarity and emotional wellbeing. The brain’s detoxification processes, which clear out harmful waste products that accumulate during the day, also occur during sleep, making it crucial for mental health at every stage of life.
Emotionally, sleep is a powerful tool for mood regulation. Families who prioritise sleep often find that they are more patient, understanding and better equipped to handle the daily stresses of life. A well-rested family member is more likely to engage positively with others, reducing conflict and promoting a peaceful household. Sleep deprivation, on the other hand, can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression, leading to a cycle of negativity that can affect the entire family dynamic. Ensuring everyone gets enough sleep is one of the simplest ways to foster a supportive and loving environment at home.
In addition to these individual benefits, sleep has a unique ability to bring the family together. Establishing a regular sleep routine can create a sense of security and predictability, especially for children. A bedtime routine that involves the whole family, such as reading a story together or discussing the day’s events, not only helps children wind down but also strengthens familial bonds. It’s a time to connect, reflect and prepare for the new day ahead. When every member of the family is well-rested, they are more likely to be present, engaged and connected with each other.
Sleep doesn’t come easy to everyone for a variety of reasons. Research shows some basic refinements to sleep hygiene, the behaviours during the day and before bed which encourage sleep, can make the world of difference.
To encourage you to prioritise your sleep the expert team at SleepDrops would like to give you a copy of our 'One Week to a More Restful Sleep' programme. Valued at $27.90, we are offering this programme FREE for a limited time. Simply register as a customer and use coupon: ChannelMagSept2024 in the shopping cart to get your copy today!
By Mary Buckley
Yoga workshops offer an opportunity for focused learning. An opportunity to dive deeper into specific aspects of yoga. Learn about the connection between yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and overall wellness. The immersive nature of workshops encourages self-reflection and personal growth, helping you connect with your inner self. You are invited to join our upcoming workshops:
Women’s Rest & Restore
Friday evenings 7pm-8.30pm, 6 September, 4 October or 1 November 2024, $50pp
This monthly retreat is a nurturing session with Ange Gervan – for women who intend to relax deeply and revive their energy. The session will start with relaxation, breathing and flow on to a sequence of qi gong then restorative yoga; a gentle practice which facilitates exploration into breath awareness and mindful movement and leave you feeling relaxed and revived!
Day workshop: Goddess Gathering
Saturday 28 September 2024, 11am-6pm, $115pp
Spend a sacred day with Sarah Hon – for women to connect, uplift and celebrate each other. Gather together in a ritual space to practise yoga, somatic movement and meditation; to share and celebrate each other; and to cultivate an overflowing cup of nourishment, joy and peace to take back to your families and communities.
Taste of Mana with Christina McGrath
Saturday 19 October, 11am-2pm, $145pp
This fitness and wellness extraordinaire has extensive experience as a yoga teacher and athlete with a background in psychology. This workshop will give you a taste of our upcoming Mana retreat. Learnings will include yoga to benefit your mind and body, optimal nutrition to reach your goals, and mindset techniques essential to healing and growth.
The immersive nature of workshops encourages self-reflection and personal growth, helping you connect with your inner self.
Day workshop: Unlock the Divine Secret
Saturday 16 November 2024, 11am-6pm, $115pp
Together with Sarah Hon you will explore this core teaching – in satsang, in meditation, in embodied movement, in a juicy yoga flow practice, and in self-enquiry. This is a wonderful way to dive into the philosophy of yoga in an embodied way, and to level-up your yoga practice so that it can truly nourish and inspire you in every aspect of your life.
Spaces are limited on our workshops. More details and bookings can be made via our website yogasanctuary.co.nz or email us hello@yogasanctuary.co.nz
Dr Talha Gul and his team at Greenhithe Dental Boutique are focussed on a clear goal: providing easy and affordable dental care for their loyal customers. Dr Talha is changing the look and the feel of local dentistry with his boutique practice in leafy Greenhithe.
After working at the practice many years, Dr Talha took over the business in early 2021, fulfilling his dream of owning a family dental practice in a close-knit, family-orientated community. Almost four years on he is really pleased with what they have achieved.
“I love the area, the people, and the work,” said Dr Talha when we caught up with him in late August. “Having been a dentist here for over the best part of a decade, I have got to know our patients really well. I’ve seen plenty of children grow up! It’s really satisfying to have these long-standing relationships with patients and to help them along the way. We are extremely thankful to the North Shore community for their continued support and trust in our little practice.”
As a thank you to the wider community, Greenhithe Dental Boutique has a special offer for Channel Mag readers. If you book before 30 September 2024, all new patients will receive 35% off a comprehensive dental checkup and x-rays.
Greenhithe Dental Boutique's services range from general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry to full orthodontic services. You will enjoy the personal touch the team provides. Remember, Greenhithe Dental Boutique with its extensive experience, and practised efficiency, technology and techniques, offers high quality treatments and results at affordable prices. They listen to your needs, provide support, advice and payment plans to assist you to maintain oral health.
Since opening, Greenhithe Dental Boutique has been at the forefront of dental upgrades, including same-day crowns, full computerisation, digital x-rays, intra-oral images and more, to maintain the highest possible standards.
The practice also offers extended hours from 7am to 7pm, meaning early morning or late afternoon/evening appointments are available. Book today!
Greenhithe Dental Boutique
6/8 Greenhithe Road, Greenhithe greenhithedental.co.nz to book online, phone 413-5109 or email hello@greenhithedental.co.nz.
As a thank you to the wider community, Greenhithe Dental Boutique has a special offer for Channel Mag readers. If you book before September 30th, 2024, all new patients will receive 35% off a comprehensive dental checkup and x-rays.
What’s the difference and which is best for you?
Pilates and yoga are both low-impact exercise approaches that focus on body weight resistance. Both workouts can increase overall health, leading to a better quality of life, and both can be done on a mat, but the two modalities quickly diverge in how you practise them and their effects on your body.
Yoga developed in ancient India and typically emphasises the spiritual aspects of finding yourself, finding peace or simply feeling calm. Yoga practitioners believe that the mind can heal the body through practice, meditation and devotion to yoga. Classes are typically long, lasting one and a half hours or more, and often involve holding poses for extended periods. Increased flexibility and better balance are among the benefits of yoga, as are longer leaner muscles.
Created in the 1920s, Pilates simultaneously combines correct posture, controlled breathing and resistance-based movements. Unlike yoga’s focus on the mind, Pilates is about the body healing the body through functional exercise and correct posture to create a 'powerhouse body'. People often say that Pilates works your 'core', and associate their core only with their abdominals, but your core is actually made up of the abdominal muscles, lower back muscles, pelvic floor muscles, glutes and muscles encircling the hips. All Pilates exercises begin with these muscles, resulting in a strong torso which provides stability to the entire body. The strong abdominal and back muscles built through Pilates help alleviate back pain and prevent injury. Typically, Pilates classes are shorter and more intense than yoga classes – at Suna our classes are 45 minutes long and you can expect to work up a good sweat. Whether yoga or Pilates is best for you depends on what you are looking for. The main difference between the two is movement. If you seek a more stationary experience involving a spiritual element with deep stretching and gentle toning that increases flexibility, then yoga is for you. Alternatively, you should consider Pilates if you want movement, strength and a more sculpted body. Moreover, if you are recovering from an injury or want to
You should consider Pilates if you want movement, strength and a more sculpted body.
strengthen and tone your entire body while improving your posture and balance and building functional fitness, then Pilates is the better choice. Pilates is also a good option if you seek a full-body workout in a short period of time.
Yoga is frequently associated with mindfulness and being present, but often the opposite is true. While holding a long yoga pose, it’s easy for your mind to wander to the stresses of your day or the things you need to do after class.
Suna Pilates workouts focus on posture and breathing with every movement. This concentration on posture while coordinating your breath means your brain is fully focused on your body and you are forced to stay in the moment. Pilates breathing done correctly makes you feel less physically and mentally tired and makes your body operate at an optimum level. Because of our focus on breathing, you can expect to leave a Suna Pilates class feeling physically extended but also energised and revitalised.
Every exercise at Suna focuses on the muscles involved in that movement and building that muscle in the correct posture. We lengthen and strengthen each muscle so that our members build beautiful healthy 'Pilates bodies' that will stand the test of time. If this is what you seek, please visit us at Suna.
Improve your health and your life by giving Pilates a go at Suna. You can get started with six classes for just $60, or join us for our Open Day on Saturday 14 September, when we will offer complimentary 45-minute classes beginning at 11.15am, 12.15pm and 1.15pm. No need to RSVP or sign up.
Suna Pilates
1 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 489 1987
info@sunapilates.co.nz sunapilates.co.nz
Ear Health, Devonport 82 Lake Road, Narrow Neck Mon-Fri: 8:30am-5pm Sat & Sun: Closed www.earhealth.co.nz | 09 242 0866
Lynda Betts Devonport
Residential and Waterfront Sales and Marketing 021 278 3024 lynda.betts@bayleys.co.nz bayleys.co.nz/lynda-betts
Celebrate spring this September with our Garden Posie Special
10am-2pm
Quality flowers at great prices perfect to enjoy at home
Come see our fabulous florists 63 Victoria Road Devonport 09 4458350 devonportflowers.co.nz
SkinSense Beauty Therapy & Day Spa Retreat 53b Victoria Road, Devonport 09 445 7077 skinsense.co.nz
Recognised as Devonport’s leading skin and body rejuvenation clinic for over 30 years, SkinSense offers a comprehensive menu of facials and treatments. We are dedicated to optimising the appearance, condition, health and function of your skin along with delivering relaxing spa and body treatments.
Our team of qualified beauty therapists combine professionalism, knowledge, skill, credibility and client-focused outcomes, and our dedication to exceptional results extends to our investment in the latest equipment, modalities, treatments and skincare products. Our client-focused approach underpins our delivery of exceptional outcomes: skin that is rejuvenated, strengthened, glowing and more youthful.
As we travel through our lifetime and with life's many paths including the absence of calm, our stress and anxiety levels can show up in various ways, including our skin which can start to look sallow and dull.
The health benefits of a relaxing facial include re-energising, de-stressing, rejuvenating and balancing the skin and have been found to significantly reduce
stress and anxiety levels. A combination of therapeutic touch along with the use of essential oils in a tranquil spa environment can create the perfect peace and serenity.
Massage helps increase circulation, releases muscle tension, calms and reduces physical symptoms of stress, and triggers the body to release hormones that encourage relaxation, plus endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine to decrease the stress hormone.
We all need to slow down and recharge, so take time out and come into our beauty salon. Call to make an appointment or book online, and be sure to ask about our monthly beauty salon specials.
SkinSense is pleased to offer online gift vouchers along with professional skincare, and delivers New Zealand-wide.
SkinSense Beauty Therapy & Day Spa Retreat
53b Victoria Road, Devonport 09 445 7077
skinsense.co.nz
Open Tuesday-Saturday, 9am-5pm Late nights Tuesdays and Thursdays until 8pm
Interior design with Kirsten Ford of KFD Interiors
More than any other room in your home, the master suite should feel like a sanctuary, bringing a boutique hotel blend of maximum style plus maximum comfort to a small space.
Calming colours: The right colours are key to creating a calming master suite. We prefer paler soft shades that are restful and warmer shades that will ensure the space doesn’t feel too stark. Try shades of warm white, soft grey, muted green or light taupe to create a serene space.
Create a focal point: The bed is obviously the most important element of the room. We like to make it a showstopper by adding an oversized, beautiful headboard in a lush, luxe fabric for the ultimate boutique hotel feel.
Layered lighting: Mood lighting is key. Layer lighting by using more than one light source; think about adding pendants, bedside table lamps or wall lights. The latter is our favourite as wall lights save bedside space and feel so much more impressive. Dimmers are essential, with individually controlled, easily accessible switches.
Tactile textures: Layering is key for a luxe look; you really do need multiple cushions to dress your bed – trust us on this, it’s true! And remember to add softness and texture to other areas of the bedroom to balance the space – curtains to finish the windows, and an occasional chair or ottoman are our picks.
I would love to help you create a master suite with style and edge, so do get in touch to book a consultation.
KFD Interiors
027 201 9304
kirsten@kirstenforddesign.com, KFDinteriors.com Instagram @kirsten_ford_design Facebook @kirstenforddesign
Jeremy & Sarah Lowe, Renovation Consultants
Let's delve into the benefits of a paid quote.
1. Personalised service: When you pay for a quote, you're getting a customised experience. Renovation pros take the time to understand your project inside and out, making sure every little detail you want is included. It's like getting a personalised road map for your dream space. You will get a clear and detailed scope.
2. Time and know-how: Crafting an accurate quote takes a lot of effort and expertise. Renovation experts put in the hours to give you a quote and will tender out to trades to ensure you are not paying more than you need to. It's all about giving you a clear picture of what to expect, and you can see where you can cut back if needed.
3. No surprises: By investing in a detailed quote upfront, you're saving yourself from unexpected surprises later on. A good quote helps you plan better, avoid going over budget, and keep your project on track. It's all about keeping things smooth sailing.
4. Your say matters: Reputable renovation companies listen to you every step of the way. Your feedback shapes the quote, ensuring that the final plan matches your vision perfectly. It's a collaborative effort to make your dream space a reality.
In the world of renovations, choosing a partner that values accuracy is key. We give our clients the royal treatment and would love to work with you to help you bring your dream space to life.
Refresh Renovations
The Crate, 28 Constellation Drive, Mairangi Bay 022 682 1237 sarah.lowe@refresh.co.nz refresh.co.nz
Facebook Jeremy and Sarah at Refresh Instagram jeremyandsarah.refresh
By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and director at Lake Road Electrical
Electricity is a powerful tool but it needs to be handled with care, especially at home. That's why we at Lake Road Electrical always recommend using residual current devices (RCDs) to keep your family safe from electrical shocks and fires.
What's an RCD? It's a safety device that quickly cuts off power if it detects a fault, like electricity flowing through a person or a wet appliance. This rapid response can prevent serious injuries, and even save lives.
How does an RCD work? An RCD monitors the electrical currents in the circuits it protects. If it detects any electricity leaking onto unintended paths, it shuts off the power immediately.
Types
• Fixed RCDs: Installed in your switchboard. These protect multiple circuits throughout your home
• Socket-outlet RCDs: Built into outlets to protect specific areas or appliances.
• Portable RCDs: Useful for temporary setups, especially outdoors or in damp areas.
Costs
• Plug-in RCDs start at around $25
• Portable models are about $50
• Fixed RCDs are pricier but provide broader protection.
Simply press the 'Test' button every three months. If it doesn’t trip or if you have concerns, it’s crucial to consult a professional.
Unsure about your RCD protection, or need assistance with testing? Give me a shout at Lake Road Electrical. As a Master Electrician, I’m here to help make sure your electrical setup is as safe as can be. Drop me a line anytime – keeping you and your family safe is what I’m here for!
Bees all around the world are in decline due to pesticide misuse, as well as habitat degradation taking away the bees' food sources of nectar and pollen. There are three simple steps you can take that make a huge difference:
The number one thing you can do is to avoid spraying harmful pesticides that are having a huge effect on bee populations across the globe.
Neem granules are a great alternative to using more harmful pesticides. Neem is effective against a range of sucking insects, including aphids, thrips, whitefly, mealybug, scale and mites. Add granules to the soil around the drip line and water in; the plants will absorb the neem which will be ingested by any insects that chew or suck on the plant.
If you really must spray try to use neem oil which is less toxic than other pesticides and you can minimise harm further by spraying at sunset, when the bees are less active.
Just as important is providing plants that feed bees. Bee-friendly plants and flowers. Seeds, such as bee balm, hollyhock, penstemon, salvia, sweet alyssum, wildflower mixes, or zinnia, are great. Or pick up seedlings from the garden centre. Great edible choices include rosemary, basil, mint, sage, thyme, fennel, parsley, coriander and nasturtium. Trees such as bottlebrush, cabbage tree, and camellia are wonderful for attracting bees, as are natives shrubs such as New Zealand flax, hebe, and rengarenga.
An often overlooked need is water – you can also help by leaving a small saucer or bowl of fresh water for bees to drink from in the garden. It helps to leave a few pebbles in there for them to rest on while they sup. Want to do a little more? Perhaps you want to give your veggie garden a boost, or maybe you just like the idea of helping out the local bee population? If you have a larger property and are feeling a little more ambitious, there are plenty of companies who can help you set up a hive and even manage it for you!
Photo by Eric Ward on Unsplash
Amanda Graham Newhaven Gardens Ltd 021 378969 instagram.com/newhavengardens/ amanda@newhavengardens.co.nz newhavengardens.co.nz
Spedding Industrial is on its way to become a world-class industrial hub for Auckland’s north-west, providing critical infrastructure upgrades for the region to future-proof growth and demand.
Spedding Industrial, a largescale greenfield development in Whenuapai is on track to deliver Auckland’s next major industrial hub, unlocking opportunities for the northwest corridor.
Developed by greenfield specialists, Oyster Capital, the delivery of the project will see a $56 million commitment to local infrastructure upgrades, ensuring the development of the large landholding contributes to improved transport and growth planning for the north-west corridor and its communities.
Situated on Spedding Road, adjacent to Westgate, Spedding Industrial encompasses 46 hectares of land bound by Brigham Creek Road to the north, State Highway 16 to the south-west, and rural-residential land to the east and south offering future occupant businesses seamless connectivity to Auckland’s main arterial routes.
Strong demand for the development has been experienced since it launched to market late last year, with one third of the land holding sold or under contract – over $100 million in sales – offering purchasers a major foothold in one of Auckland’s fastest growing regions.
Oyster Capital’s director Cameron Wilson says demand so far has come largely from warehousing and logistics related companies wanting to upscale, but expects there to be a diverse mix of businesses at Spedding Industrial.
”With close proximity to two of Auckland’s main highways and improved transport connectivity in the area, Spedding Industrial offers businesses of scale the opportunity to secure a major foothold in one of Auckland’s fastest growing regions.
“Industrial land has become an extremely scarce commodity, especially greenfield sites of scale. Spedding Industrial is a unique opportunity for businesses to upgrade and work with large land sizes to develop into modern, world-class facilities. This will be a new and exciting business and employment hub for the north-west.”
Oyster Capital has a strong foothold in Whenuapai with a sustained
focus on the north-west sector for the past 14 years, working collaboratively with council to unlock infrastructure for housing and employment growth in the region.
Set to experience significant growth over the next 20 years, the population of Whenuapai is expected to swell from 5,000 to over 30,000 by 2041 – an increase of approximately 8,000 dwellings.
In response to this growth demand, Spedding Industrial will undertake significant infrastructure upgrades to ensure the region has enhanced transport and connectivity and is future proofing for anticipated growth demand.
Key infrastructure initiatives include nine significant transport upgrades to deliver a robust, functioning road network surrounding the site, new pedestrian and cycle links, and a critical replacement of the existing Brigham Creek Road bridge. Central to these transport improvements will be enhanced connectivity to State Highways 16 and 18, giving Whenuapai residents and visitors better access to Auckland’s motorways.
Oyster Capital will also install 1.5km of wastewater rising main on behalf of WaterCare to respond to demand increases across the area and prevent adverse effects on the environment.
Commitment to the environment will also see the preservation of natural wetlands in the area, with Oyster Capital undertaking comprehensive enhancement riparian planting, totaling 5.3, along the Sinton Stream and Totara Creek, as well as 7,488m2 of existing natural wetlands to be retained and planted with native vegetation.
Poised to be a high standard, modern industrial precinct with attractive streetscapes and covenanted design outcomes, Spedding Industrial will deliver in the north-west a significant hub for business and employment, significantly contributing to the economic prosperity of the region.
Visit: speddingroad.co.nz
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Two of the North Shore’s leading business people were inducted in to the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame at a special luncheon held at the North Harbour Stadium on Thursday 8 August. They were Jolie Hodson and Martin Cooper. Since 2015, the North Harbour Club has administered the Business Hall of Fame. The first laureates were inducted in 2004 when the Hall of Fame was part of North Shore City Council’s business unit, Enterprise North Shore. The 2024 North Harbour Business Hall of Fame Luncheon was emceed by media personality Samantha Hayes who interviewed the guest speaker, former New Zealand Prime Minister Sir John Key. The event was sponsored by Milford Asset Management (long time sponsors of the Business Hall of Fame) and Golf Warehouse and drew a large crowd of 250 people.
Takapuna resident Jolie Hodson has a strong track record of business and giving back to her community. Jolie is CEO of Spark. Her business career has spanned roles across both Australia and New Zealand. Jolie attended Westlake Girls before going on to complete a Bachelor of Commerce degree at the University of Auckland.
Jolie’s first job was on the audit team at Deloitte, becoming a partner after eight years. She then decided to take a step out of consulting and challenge herself with a career in the corporate sector, taking on a role in the finance division of brewing giant Lion Nathan in Australia. One of her biggest career opportunities came at Lion, just weeks before going on maternity leave with her second child. This was a shift out of finance and into broader commercial leadership. She progressed to become Finance Director for Lion's Australian beer, spirits and wine business.
After 12 successful years at Lion, Jolie headed home to New Zealand to become CFO of Telecom in 2013. At Telecom she played a pivotal role within the leadership team in one of New Zealand's most notable corporate turnaround stories. She was there through the brand change to Spark and took on the
role of Spark Digital CEO in 2016, before stepping into the top job of CEO and joining the Spark board as an Executive Director in 2019.
Under Jolie's leadership, Spark has continued to transform from its traditional telco routes to a much broader digital services business, with significant investments being made into high tech solutions and nationally significant digital infrastructure.
During her career, Jolie has always maintained a steadfast focus on paying back the opportunities that she has been afforded. She is passionate about supporting women in business, and is a member of Global Women, a Champion for Change, and a founder of OnBeingBold.
“The giving back part is important to me,” explained Jolie, in a recent MoneyTalks Podcast. “I’ve had people that really helped me in my career. And so things like OnBeingBold, where we come together to really help women in business, that is one of those areas. But also through our [Spark] foundation, as that digital equity side is really important to me as well.”
OnBeingBold is an organisation which aims to inspire women in the corporate world by bringing them together for events to hear from different leaders and network. She is also involved with a
group focused on inspiring Year 13 girls, an initiative that has since expanded its ambitions with a goal to increase multicultural and Pacifica representation now a feature of its strategy.
Jolie is a member of the Climate Leaders Coalition steering committee, including two years as the convenor, uniting New Zealand businesses that account for 32% of the country’s GDP to raise the bar on business leadership on climate action. The coalition has worked together to reduce emissions by 3.6 million tonnes since 2018.
In 2016, Jolie was awarded CFO of the Year, and in 2022 CEO of the Year in the Deloitte Top 200 Business Awards. In 2024, Jolie was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to business, governance, and women.
In accepting her induction in to the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame, Jolie Hodson credited her career success to the encouragement of many mentors, the collaboration of her peers, the support of her team, and the unwavering love and patience of her husband Gareth, son Sam, daughter Emma and her wider family.
MARTIN COOPER – MANAGING DIRECTOR, HARCOURTS COOPER & CO.
Not too many people on the North Shore would not know of Martin Cooper and his well-used phrase – “The North Shore, what a
great place to live”. Martin is the founder and driving force behind the successful Harcourts Cooper & Co business, is the face of their tv commercials and promotion, and is wellknown for giving back to the community.
Martin Cooper first moved to the North Shore from the South Island in 1996. He grew up in Queenstown and attributes much of his success to the role models he had growing up, his parents Warren and Lorraine. They served as Mayor and Mayoress of Queenstown for three terms and his father Warren was the MP for Otago for 24 years and a cabinet minister in the Muldoon and Bolger governments.
Martin says growing up he learned the value of honesty, hard work and caring for people within the community. He excelled as a snow skier, before rugby and real estate became passions when the family moved to live in Dunedin. Martin played for the Dunedin Rugby Club, establishing a liking for teamwork, rugby and the community. It was in Dunedin that he had his first foray into real estate, establishing his business, Cooper and Co. Real Estate, in 1991. Martin grew that company from a zero to 25% market share in five short years, before making the decision to move to North Shore in 1996.
Since that move, Harcourt's Cooper and Co. Real Estate has become a household name north of the Harbour Bridge, renowned for selling a large number of homes while supporting their community. The business has
grown to encompass 20 offices and a team of close to 500 people and is now responsible for selling one in three homes across the North Harbour region. Martin’s business has become a leader in the Harcourts Group, one of New Zealand's most trusted real estate brands. He is proud that Harcourts Cooper & Co has been the number one real estate franchise in the Harcourts International Group for 12 consecutive years and to have won numerous awards and accolades for community support.
Martin’s business has become a leader in the Harcourts Group, one of New Zealand's most trusted real estate brands.
Martin firmly believes that all businesses have a social responsibility to support the community where they both work and live. This is something that Martin is indeed a champion at. The Harcourt's Cooper and Co brand is pretty much a fixture at community events, with all agents and team members encouraged to get involved. Martin himself is an accomplished presenter and auctioneer, and is well-known for livening up charity events with his larger than life personality.
Harcourt's Cooper and Co supports local schools, bowling clubs, sporting events, the arts and mental health. Martin has enjoyed sponsoring North Harbour Rugby, North Shore Rugby, North Harbour Referees and more recently the Northcote and Silverdale rugby clubs. Harcourt's Cooper and Co also has a designated community relations team to
help support these organisations.
While it is the brand that often leads the way, Martin also plays a big part personally in his community, serving on the board of North Harbour Rugby for six years, and as a board member of Breast Cancer Cure for the past 12 years.
Martin was the recipient of a Paul Harris Fellow Award, the highest form of recognition from Rotary for outstanding contribution to the community.
Martin Cooper is a very proud partner, parent and grandparent alongside his partner Kim. Between them they have six children and now 10 grandchildren.
In accepting his induction in the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame, Martin reflected on being grateful to be running a successful business and being fully engaged in both family life and his community, saying he very much looks forward to many, many more years of support and engagement in that beloved community.
– 2004: Geoff Smale, Jim Smale, Ralph Roberts, Sir Stephen Tindall; 2005: Sir David Levene (Lifetime Achievement Award); Sir Graeme Avery; Sir Peter Maire; 2006: Diane Foreman, Peter Menzies; 2007: Ian Calderwood; 2008: David Charlesworth; 2009: Colin Harvey; 2010: Jan Dawson, Gary Monk; 2016: Paul Blackwell and Liz Blackwell, John Spooner, Annette Presley; 2017: Bill Speedy, Eric Faesenkloet, Paul Byrnes; 2018: Ken Noble, David McAlpine, Steve Newman; 2019: Greg Smale, Carmel Fisher, Guy Haddleton and Sue Haddleton; Garth Barfoot; Bob Jago, Craig Heatley; The Alison Brothers (Ewan & Alexander), Walter Gill and Simon Gundry, Ann Tod, Aidan Bennett, Sir Stephen Tindall (Lifetime Achievement Award); 2023: Naomi Ballantyne, Kerry Dines, Ian Jackson, Hugh Stedman; 2024: Jolie Hodson, Martin Cooper.
For further information visit: northharbourclub.co.nz
Gary Monk, ONZM, who has enjoyed a lengthy association with the organisation, is the new patron of the North Harbour Club.
Gary has been part of the North Harbour Club story for most of the club’s three decades. His first memory of involvement was being invited to what he believes was the inaugural lunch at the North Harbour Stadium by club founder Ross Finlayson. Former New Zealand Prime Minister David Lange was the guest speaker.
That was the start of a lengthy association that Gary is immensely proud of. Gary was made a life member of the club in 2014 recognising his massive contribution. He became patron in July 2024.
Reflecting on his involvement, Gary says it was initially to support the efforts of influential founder Ross Finlayson. He says Ross twisted his arm to be involved and contribute; however it wasn’t too long before Gary was totally sold on the club’s purpose.
Gary served as an AIMES Awards judge when Professor Ian Watson was chair. Fellow judges included Peter Wall, Faye Mason and Mike Antoniadas. Gary says being a judge hooked him into the club, seeing the amazing talent, not just of youngsters, but also their parents and extended family who all helped out to give them the best chance to succeed. He served as a trustee from 1999 to 2012, going on to play a crucial leadership role following Ross Finlayson’s passing in 2009.
Gary Monk was born and bred in Gisborne. He first came to Auckland in 1970, undertaking a law degree at Auckland University before taking a job in the seafood industry. He went on to establish his own business, Intersea, in 1983, which has traded seafood all over the world for over 40 years.
Gary is recognised as a pioneer and leader in the New Zealand seafood industry. During the 1980s he was involved in creating the innovative ‘Magic Mussel’ initiative that was the forerunner to live shellfish being sold in supermarkets and retail outlets across New Zealand. He also helped to grow markets for fresh chilled New Zealand seafood and live shellfish in North America. Intersea was also one of the pioneers in selling New Zealand frozen fish to China. This continues today, and Intersea is still working with the same China-based business partner 32 years on.
Gary has had a distinguished business career. As well as running Intersea, he has been involved as a director and in governance roles with many other entities. This has included being a director of Radio New Zealand, regional chair of BNZ Partners Auckland
North, and chair of Pacific Cooperation Broadcasting Limited (Pasifika TV). He has also chaired Mathias International, New Zealand Light Leathers, and the Balance Clearview Primary Growth Partnership. He currently chairs Bluff Limited and NZ Abalone, Premium Marine Technology and is an independent director of Mindhive. Gary has been a member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors since 2009.
It was meeting Lesley, his wife of over 48 years, that brought Gary to the North Shore to live over 40 years ago. Gary and Lesley have two daughters and four grandchildren.
The North Shore has benefited greatly from having Gary as part of the community. As well as playing a leading role in the North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust he is a founding trustee of the St Patrick’s Day Golf Charitable Trust (1989 – present), served as chair of the YES Disability Resource Centre (2013 – 2018), and was chair of Shore Junction Youth Innovation Hub (2013 – 2018).
Gary was inducted as a laureate into the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame in 2010. He was also recognised by North Shore City Council with a civic award for service to the community in 2010 and by Rotary with a Paul Harris Fellow in 2014. He was appointed a Justice of the Peace 1998.
In 2015, Gary received an ONZM in the New Year's Honours, for services to the seafood industry and the community.
Gary and Lesley Monk live in Takapuna and love spending time at their Omaha Beach property with their family. Gary’s passion’s include watching his grandchildren thrive in everything they do, following rugby and sport in general, music and fishing.
Tuesday 15th October
Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna, from 6:45am
Thursday 17th Oct 2024
Takapuna Bowling Club From 5.15pm – Bookings Essential via website
$30,000
The North Harbour Club annually awards grants to young people, aged 13 - 25 years, in the North Harbour region who display Excellence in their chosen career or field. Over $200,000 total grant funding pool is up for grabs, so get your application underway today – applications close Friday 24 January 2025.
Kia ora everyone, this month the Local Board has three important pieces of consultation on the go that I’d love you to be across.
The first is on the new Takapuna Library and Community Hub. The Local Board is keen to see a future-proofed multi-functional community space and library delivered for the residents of today and tomorrow. We’ve decided to refurbish the existing building, Auckland’s only seaside public library, possibly adding a third level to maximise views out to Rangitoto and the Hauraki Gulf. Our vision is to create a space where everyone in our community feels welcome and safe. A place where events can be held, public meetings can take place, where our community partners can be found, and where people can create, study, read or simply enjoy the company of others.
Fully funded through the sales of underperforming assets, this new hub is being designed for you, so you need to tell us what you want. We need all your great ideas, dreams and aspirations for this new facility. Te Manawa in Westgate has bookable sewing machines, recording studios, computers suites and quiet puzzle corners. Takaanini has a community kitchen so locals and workers can come in and heat their lunch, sit at the bar and eat communally. They’ve even got a tunnel slide in the kids’ area that zooms children from one floor to the other. Why do these community hubs have such things? Because their residents have asked for them. So what do you want? We cannot wait to hear all your ideas. Please go onto AK Have Your Say to weigh in. Or pop into the Takapuna Library and do it in person.
3/09/24
The second consultation currently taking place is on the Shoreline Adaptation Plan (SAP). This is an important piece of work that sets the direction for Council in how we maintain and manage our coastal assets in the short, medium and long term. Now that we’ve truly felt the impacts of climate change with last year’s flooding events and we understand now what it means when our coastlines erode, we must get some strategies in place that address adaptation. We’re a coastal community and our wellbeing and lifestyle are directly connected with the coast. It’s important that you understand where we propose to ‘hold the line', consider ‘limited Intervention’ or where we anticipate ‘managed retreat’. Again, go to AK Have your Say to see the consultation material and the SAP.
We
Our last piece of consultation coming out this month is for a future skate park that is being contemplated at Woodall Park in Narrow Neck. For those who live on the Devonport peninsula you’ll probably know of the much-loved Scotty Brewer memorial skate park in Ngataringa Reserve. Built into an old landfill that is continuing to settle, the existing park keeps sinking and is now at the end of its usable life. Knowing this, the Local Board included in its capital works programme a project line that would see the provision of skating be shifted from Ngataringa Park to some other location. Following analysis of 19 alternative sites, it’s been agreed that Woodall Park is the best fit, for its easy access, its proximity to other sporting facilities, its visibility and its existing use by skateboarders. Now we’re asking for locals, nearby residents and the skate community to tell us what they’d like to see in this location, as well as raise any concerns they might have so we can work hard to mitigate them. For us, it’s wonderful to be advancing on these projects that we’ve had on our books for many years. Delivering more for the community is what it’s all about. Enjoy the first month of spring and the longer days ahead.
Toni van Tonder, Chair, Devonport-Takapuna Local Board toni.vantonder@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Some special presentations were made recently at The Poynton Retirement Village in Takapuna. The New Zealand Defence Service Medal is awarded to recognise those who have completed Compulsory Military Training (CMT), National Service or Territorial Service since the Second World War.
In a special ceremony The Poynton residents were presented with their medals. Most of the recipients were unaware that they were eligible for the medal until it was publicised throughout the village. The Poynton resident Boyd Squires took the effort to collect the information needed on behalf of his fellow residents to make this event a success.
Most of the recipients were unaware that they were eligible for the Medal…
simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz
dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz
Former Westlake Boys student and North Harbour Club AIMES Emerging Talent Award winner in 2021/22 Ben Old is doing big things in the football world. The All White and former Wellington Phoenix winger has recently signed and moved to France to play with French Ligue 1 club Saint-Etienne (abbreviated as ASSE). Official named Association Sportive de Saint-Étienne Loire, the club competes in Ligue 1, the first division of French football. It’s a big gig. Ben is one heck of a sportsman. He is also a golfer of note. He’s was once referred to as a child golfing prodigy. He had his first golf club at age two and competed at his first international golf tournament when he was only seven, travelling to the United States to play against other child prodigies from around the world in Las Vegas, Pinehurst and San Diego. For now he’s making a tidy living in professional football. He was meant to play for the OlyWhites at the recent Paris Olympics, but a slight ankle injury ruled him out. He was recently named in the All Whites squad for two internationals against 2026 FIFA World Cup hosts Mexico and the USA, set to be played this month in Los Angeles and Cincinnati. Channel Mag’s Aidan Bennett caught up with him recently at his new French home for an online Q&A.
Channel Mag: Ben, it has been a whirlwind few months for you hasn’t it? How long was it between hearing about the overseas opportunity and arriving in France?
Ben Old: It has been a crazy few months to say the least! The football has been the easy part; everything outside football, like sorting out my apartment, car, phone etc. has been a long and slow process, especially being in another language. But I am just starting to feel settled and comfortable now. Without the club's support I don’t know what I would have done.
Tell us your initial thoughts about your new home base in France (Saint-Étienne), and the lifestyle?
France and St Etienne so far are everything I dreamed of and more. It’s been exactly the change I’ve been wanting in my life and I can’t wait to explore around France when I get the time.
We understand that Saint-Étienne is an impressive football club with a proud history? Tell us a little but about the club. Who owns it?
Yes, St Etienne has a very rich history, which is one of the main reasons I was so attracted to this
opportunity. To give a quick run-down, ASSE is the second most successful club in French football, winning ten Ligue 1 titles, six Coupe De France titles, a Coupe de la Ligue title and five Trophee des Champions. The team has recently been taken over by new owners, Kilmer Sports Ventures, a Toronto-based firm specialising in private equity, real estate, many successful sports teams and media. Their mission is to get the team back to the top and I hope to help the team be able to do that.
We heard the club has its own plane that flies the squad to away games. Is that correct?
Yes. With St Etienne being an hour's drive away from the closest international airport in Lyon, the team takes a charter plane to most games around France.
How does the standard of football compare to the A-League and what is different about playing football in France’s Ligue 1?
It has been a question many people have asked me and it is honestly a very difficult question to answer. The quality is very high here in the French league, but with such different styles of football compared to the A-League it’s impossible to compare. The style here is much more aggressive, chaotic in terms of less structure, and much more focus is one-on-one duels. It’s an exciting style to not only play but watch and I think as a player I can learn so much and develop as a player being here.
What is the programme of matches for Saint-Étienne in Ligue 1 this season?
The season is 34 matches long plus possible play-offs. Basically
one game a week, but starting earlier, it is longer than the 27 match season in A-League. This is not including games in the cups either. There are 18 teams in the league including ASSE.
If you are playing well do you expect to get good time in the top team?
I didn’t expect to get this settled so quickly. Already in the first two league matches I have started and got a good amount of minutes both games. With my high expectations of myself I think if I’m playing how I know I can, I have a great opportunity to play a lot of minutes and be an influential player this season.
Did you manage to get along and watch any of the Paris Olympics live?
Unfortunately not, I was very busy with pre-season and the recovery process with ASSE.
Played any golf in France yet, and what golf courses in France and UK/Europe are on your list to play?
I have been able to play one round in Lyon when I got a couple days off recently. Also found a great driving range in St Etienne which I’ve already been to many times. I don’t have any golf courses in mind off the top of my head, but I will definitely be doing my research and
planning mini trips to play some of the many great courses in the UK.
What do you miss about life on the Shore and will you have a window during the year when you can come home?
I miss my family and friends a lot. Having recently been able to see my family who are on holiday in Europe, which was amazing but I'm definitely missing my extended family and all my friends in New Zealand. I also miss all the amazing cafés on the North Shore; I love a brunch and can’t compare to the ones in New Zealand haha!
It’s been exactly the change I’ve been wanting in my life and I can’t wait to explore around France when I get the time.
We saw an interesting social media clip about you being painted in France. How did that come about and what did it involve?
That was a part of my introduction and media release to the club. It was as much as a surprise for me as it was for all of you. All I got told was I had media work to do for my media release, so I assumed a photo shoot or something simple like that and then I turned up and saw this great painter finishing off an unbelievable painting of my face in the St Etienne kit. It was a truly amazing experience and memory I’ll remember forever.
Visit: asse.fr
This month, we’re shining a light on our local libraries and interviewing the hard-working and passionate people from across four different libraries on the Shore. With school holidays upon us, the local libraries have a ‘time warp theme’. There are plenty of different activities to do at your local library along with other regular activities for younger kids and our older generations.
James Dunning is the Senior Librarian for Children and Youth Services at Takapuna Library. He grew in in Takapuna, his parents still live in Takapuna so he visits them at lunchtimes and he’s working at the same library he visited as a child. James lives in Torbay with wife, Claire, who’s a writer, and children Arthur (five years old) and Audrey (five months old). James was previously a secondary school teacher and has been a librarian for six and a half years.
Channel Mag: What school holiday activities are on at your library?
James Dunning: In keeping with the time warp theme, we’ll be travelling back in time to medieval Japan, the Wild West, ancient Egypt and much more. There will be lots of fun crafting activities. Look out for our free interactive theatre extravaganza, The Time Machine, and our Children’s Writers Festival featuring local authors Karen McMillan and Jez Smith! You can find the full event list on Facebook, OurAuckland or in the library.
For those who don't have school-aged children, what regular activities can you recommend at your library?
We have very popular Wriggle and Rhyme sessions for babies (Monday 10–10.30 a.m. and 11–11.30 a.m.) and Rhymetime for preschoolers (Wednesday 10–10.30 a.m.) during school time. Lots of parents and grandparents bring their tamariki along for music and rhymes. We also have Storytime on Saturday and Sunday at 2.30 p.m where my colleagues and I read picture books. And on Fridays from 3.30–4.30 p.m. my immensely talented colleague Jiehua does after-school arts and crafts for children aged four+.
What’s your favourite book and why?
My favourite book is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J. R. R. Tolkien. I read it at a very young age and it blew me away. As a child I loved it for its imagination and its sense of wonder. As an adult I love it for its philosophy and humanity – which is ironic for a book about elves, dwarves and hobbits! Every time I reread it I discover something new to love. (Also, the first time I read it was after we saw the old animated movie at school – but we only watched the first half! So I remember coming over to Takapuna Library, where I currently work, and the librarians helping me find a copy of the book so I could find out what happens next!)
What’s the best part about working in your library?
Any and all of the following:
• Working at the library where I used to come as a child
• Being able to see the beach and the harbour out the window
• Getting to work with children and sing songs and read books with them
• Being able to go see my parents at lunch time
• My colleagues – librarians are the loveliest people
• Being able to help such a wonderful community.
Chrissy West has been the Senior Library Assistant (Children and Youth Services) at Glenfield Library for the last two years. She says that if anyone asks, she tells them she has the BEST job in the world. Her favourite part of the working day is having kōrero with local tamariki and designing a fun and engaging programme to help with their information needs. She’s been involved with volunteer work through Girl Guiding NZ and Playcentre. Chrissy is currently studying at Open Polytechnic part time and will one day get a Bachelor of Library and Information Services.
Channel Mag: What school holiday activities are on at your library?
Chrissy West: We have a weird and wonderful ‘Time Warp’ happening here at
Glenfield Library for our school holiday programmes. You can expect to jump back and forth through time, learning about gizmos, aliens and finding your inner Picasso! We have a full list of the activities and the times that they are happening so you can schedule a visit through our time warp into Glenfield Library.
I can only choose one book!? If I must… It would be 'Where the wild things are' by Maurice Sendak. Sometimes tamariki can find it difficult to manage their emotions and Max is no exception. He is crowned the wildest thing of all, but actually, he just needed some time to calm and create a different environment for himself so he was no longer grumpy. His adults gave him the opportunity to have that time and welcomed him home with aroha. This is such a powerful message for any parent going through the terrible twos (or threes). Not to mention how fun it is to read aloud to tamariki with the full sound effects and rolling of eyes, gnashing of teeth and stomping!
What’s the best part about working in your library?
For those who don't have school-aged children, what regular activities can you recommend at your library?
We have a strong pre-school programme available, and deliver Rhyme and Storytime, Wā Pēpē: Babytime, Korean Bilingual and Arabic bilingual sessions through the week during term time. On Saturdays we have Creative Space; this session is for any tamariki who want to come and do an activity with us. It changes every week and could be something STEM related, or it could be creative or building Lego superstructures. The only thing that you can be sure of is using your imagination and having lots of fun!
What’s your favourite book and why?
The best thing about working at Glenfield Library is the people. We have such a diverse community! I am so proud to be able to work with a team of compassionate and caring staff who want the best for all the members of our community.
Jerome Rivera is a Senior Librarian Children and Youth at Birkenhead Library. He lives locally in Birkdale and has recently celebrated his 15-year anniversary with Auckland Libraries.
Channel Magazine: What school holiday activities are on at your library?
Jerome Rivera: We are just finalising our
‘time warp’ school holiday programme and we can tell you that we have some exciting activities in store including making fossils, creating ancient paper, and a printing press workshop. So follow us on the Birkenhead Library Facebook page to find out more.
For those who don't have school-aged children, what regular activities can you recommend at your library?
We run or host adult programmes like Book Chat, Korean Book Chat, Tai Chi, Digital Seniors, NZSL Meetup, Chinese Age Concern, and Death Café.
What’s your favourite book and why?
My favourite book of all time is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' and my favourite to read for story time is 'The Monster at the End of This Book'.
What’s the best part about working in your library?
The best part about working at Birkenhead Library is the connections I make with the community, especially underserved ones, and working with my fabulous colleagues who all come from diverse backgrounds and
Marie Sullivan is the Children and Teens Librarian at Northcote Library, a role she has had for quite some time. She’s a proud part of the local community and has a five-year-old who goes to Sunnybrae Normal School.
Channel Magazine: What school holiday activities are on at your library?
Marie Sullivan: We will have a retro school playground games hour, Lego play, making butter for fairy bread and more. All part of our ‘time warp’ theme!
For those who don't have school-aged children, what regular activities can you recommend at your library?
We have a monthly Book Chat group. We partner with Age Concern for a Digital Seniors session for Chinese and English Language Partners who meet each week to
I have the coolest work stories; preschoolers giving me stones as gifts, helping with CVs and they land the job…
What’s your favourite book and why?
This month my favourite book is 'Say My Name' by Joanna Ho. It’s a picture book that talks about the names we are given or carry and the importance of saying them correctly. Picture books are the best.
What’s the best part about working in your library?
I have the coolest work stories; preschoolers giving me stones as gifts, helping with CVs and they land the job, connecting people to other services, or
By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation
Well Foundation is generously supported by individuals, community groups, trusts and foundations, and this year we are grateful to our local business community for pledging their support too.
We are delighted to announce that investment professionals Forsyth Barr have committed to supporting Well Foundation. This commitment demonstrates their willingness to champion improved health experiences and outcomes across the Waitematā region. We’re absolutely thrilled to have Forsyth Barr on board, and look forward to working together to support projects which make a real difference for patients, visitors and staff at our local hospitals. We’re also excited to collaborate with their North Shore office based at Smales Farm, on volunteering opportunities that benefit the hospital community. We can’t wait to see the impact we’ll make together!
Well Foundation partners with the best of North Shore businesses, with each one going above and beyond to support the needs of your local hospital foundation. We know it’s been a tough time for many, so we’re incredibly grateful to the generous businesses in our community that help us with auction items and raffle prizes, sponsor and attend events and volunteer to help our local hospital. Thank you. Your support makes a difference for every single person living on the North Shore.
Our partners don’t just help financially; they can make a massive contribution to the organisation as a whole, and what we are trying to achieve for the health of the people within our communities. If your business is interested in improving healthcare for your community by supporting the Well Foundation, please get in touch. There are so many ways we can work together!
Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitākere hospitals.
Well Foundation, 09 447 0138 info@wellfoundation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz
By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd
When working with a real estate agent, you should expect a blend of expertise, professionalism and personalised service tailored to your unique needs. First and foremost, your agent should possess an in-depth knowledge of the local market, including current trends, property values and neighbourhood specifics. This expertise allows them to provide accurate guidance on pricing, whether you're buying or selling.
Communication is key in any real estate transaction, so your agent should be accessible and responsive, keeping you informed at every stage. This includes regular updates, answering questions promptly, and providing clear explanations of complex processes. An excellent agent will also be a skilled negotiator, advocating on your behalf to secure the best possible deal.
Transparency and honesty are crucial qualities. Your agent should offer candid advice, even if it’s not what you want to hear, helping you make informed decisions. They should also be ethical, adhering to the highest standards of integrity in all interactions.
Your agent should offer candid advice, even if it’s not what you want to hear…
Additionally, your real estate agent should be well-organised, managing timelines, paperwork and appointments efficiently. They should coordinate with other professionals, such as building inspectors and solicitors, to ensure a smooth transaction.
Finally, your agent should provide a personalised experience, understanding your specific goals, preferences and budget. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling a long-time residence, they should tailor their approach to meet your needs, making the process as stress-free and successful as possible.
Yan Davies, a long-time North Shore local, has amassed a wide network of quality clients and superior knowledge of the area. She is an active Milford Cruising Club member. She works hard for her clients, driven by a sense of duty to provide a high level of service. She holds a Master's Degree in business and administration and speaks English and Chinese fluently.
Yan Davies 燕
021 585 590
yan.davies@bayleys.co.nz
Three Kristin School students have been demonstrating their entrepreneurial strengths with the development of their product/brand as part of the Youth Enterprise Scheme at the school. These are Year 12 students Miriam Al Shaar, Florence Welton and Martha Lenden-Hitchcock.
The Youth Enterprise Scheme is a programme for high school students which encourages them to use and develop their entrepreneurial skills in the creation of a business. This is done through various challenges throughout the year which help them to design and sell our product.
Their business is called Global Indulgence, with an accompanying slogan of "Bringing the sweets of the world to your doorstep". They describe their product as a safe-to-eat cookie dough that can also be used as ready-to-bake cookies. They have four flavours each based on a different country from around the world. Chocolate Chip (USA), Apple Pie (England), Dulce de Leche (Argentina), Lemon & Poppyseed (Italy).
“As New Zealand is an island nation we are quite separated from the rest of the world so we aim to spread global awareness and different cultural flavours through food,” explained the students when discussing their venture with Channel Mag's Kim McIntosh.
“To do this we selected flavours from different countries around the world for our cookie dough. Each flavour has an explanation containing information about the country it is from and how the flavour came to be. This is on our packaging so that we can teach people about different countries through our product.”
We have included slightly abbreviated versions of these explanations below. You’ll need to purchase to get the full stories!
Chocolate Chip (USA). Chocolate chip cookies are best known for originating in the 1930s from a recipe by Ruth Wakefield in Massachusetts. One of the first recipes appeared in her cookbook and took the rest of America by storm, with Wakefield even giving Nestlé the right to use her cookie recipe in 1939. The Great Depression (a financial crash that happened around the 1930s) helped to push the chocolate chip cookie because that's when Ruth Wakefield decided to open her business. Not only this, but WW2 further popularised the cookie as mothers were often encouraged to send cookies in care packages to soldiers. The chocolate chip cookie is a great example of how food can play an integral part in cultural identity and how bad times can present opportunities to be creative.
Fun Fact: When chocolate chip cookies were first invented, they were recommended to be eaten with ice cream.
Apple Pie (England). Though popularised in the United States of America, the apple pie originated in England in the 1300s, thanks to nearby culinary influences from France, the Netherlands and the Ottoman Empire. It was only in the 20th century that apple pie was used as a symbol of America when WWII soldiers reportedly fought 'for mom and apple pie'. The apple pie is a perfect example of how globalisation and bordering influences impact cuisine.
Fun fact: Other common English sweets: Old English trifle, madeira cake and banoffee pie.
Dulce de Leche (Latin America, Argentina). Literally meaning ‘Sweet from Milk’, Dulce de Leche is a staple for many households in Latin America. Although its exact origin is disputed, a popular origin story is said to be when the maid of Argentinian general Manuel de Rosas left milk and sugar on the stove for too long and came back to find it a creamy, caramelised mixture. Although originating in Latin America, globalisation has meant that is it a confectionery now enjoyed in places all over the world like Spain and the Philippines. There are 33 countries in Latin America.
Fun fact: In many cases, this caramel-like delicacy is used as a condiment or topping, for example on toast, waffles or pancakes and is usually eaten for breakfast.
Lemon & Poppyseed (Ancient Romans, Italy). The history of lemon and poppy seed has been debated for many years as the pairing is so old. However, one of the first documented civilisations to use poppy seeds in cooking was in the ancient Rome whose citizens were known for combining honey with different spices. Lemon and poppy seed is a great example of a flavour pairing influenced by global culinary ideas due to globalisation. Lemons travelled from then Persia to Italy as early as 200 BC which is why lemons form an integral part of the Italian cuisine.
Fun fact: To say ‘Lemon Poppy seed’ in Italian is papavero limone!
For more information visit: globalindulgencenz.wixsite.com/global-indulgence
You can also catch them on social media: global_indulgence_nz
Name: Global Indulgence
Slogan: "Bringing the sweets of the world to your doorstep"
Members: Miriam Al Shaar, Florence Welton, Martha Lenden-Hitchcock
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Social media: global_indulgence_nz
Product: Cookie dough, 200g containers, $10 per container
By Laura Mackenzie, Executive Member of Younite, 2024
Kia ora North Shore!
As the first month of spring brings hope for warmer weather and sunny days ahead, Younite has been hard at work, feeling inspired by this season of environmental rebirth. Before the end of this year, we have many exciting events occurring which will work to promote youth engagement in the community, encourage the integration of Māori values into society, and aim to show the importance of youth involvement in the Devonport-Takapuna area.
While many of these events are still in the process of planning and consideration, we first want to reflect on Younite’s tree planting and eco-restoration event held in late August. Despite Auckland’s unpredictable weather, our board came together to successfully provide teens in the community with an opportunity to promote sustainability at the William Souter Reserve in Forrest Hill. Ever since the rise in global protests against climate change a few years ago, youth have been at the forefront of the battle to save our planet. We as young people recognise the importance of caring for our earth, as well as encompassing the value of kaitiakitanga to restore our native environment. Through this event, local youth had the opportunity to engage in eco-restoration work, while enjoying a fun afternoon with friends and like-minded people. In addition, free pizza, beverages and candy were supplied to all teens who came along to plant a tree. As we like to say, “Do the mahi, get the treats!”.
Make sure to head to our Instagram to take a look at some photos.
Youth living in the Devonport-Takapuna area will also soon have the exciting opportunity to apply for a position on Younite’s board. We encourage you to apply if you feel passionate about change in the community, encourage the promotion of youth voices and opinions, and enjoy collaboration with others. All applicants must be between the ages of 14 to 24, and must reside in the Devonport-Takapuna area (regardless of whichever school you attend). Applications for 2025 will open in the next few months, so check out our Instagram page or email us for more information.
Additionally, we would like to continue to highlight that applications for the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board youth seat are still open! This is a unique opportunity for youth (ages 16
24 years) to get a behind-thescenes look into how local governance works while also becoming a part of active decisions made by the board. If you want more information, please head to our Instagram page or email us.
If you have any queries or suggestions, please do not hesitate to reach out and contact us at younitechair@gmail.com or through our Instagram page: @younitedt.
By Natasha Geo, Takapuna North Community Trust Manager
Takapuna Eco Pop-Up
Get ready to make a difference at the Takapuna Eco PopUp on Monday 2 September, in collaboration with Takapuna Library!
This month, we're collecting bottle caps and jar lids, which can't be recycled through kerbside collections due to their small size. By dropping them off, you'll be helping to divert waste from landfills and supporting community recycling initiatives. Join us to learn more about minimising waste at home and make a positive impact on our environment.
Matariki celebrations
We're still shining bright from our Matariki events in June and July! Our night tours and tree plantings explored the maramataka and the significance of reading stars for the coming year. If you missed out or want more, visit our Pupuke Birdsong Project website and sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on future events.
Join us on 7 September for the Wairau Estuary Clean Up and help protect this vital waterway in our community. We'll be clearing debris and preparing the estuary for nesting birds to safely lay their eggs in the coming months. All equipment is provided, so simply register on our Humanatix page by scanning the QR code below and come along to make a difference. Together, we can improve the health of our estuary and support local wildlife.
takapunatrust.org.nz
Facebook/Instagram: @TakapunaNorthCommunityTrust office@takapunatrust.org.nz 09 486 2098
Supported by:
By Fantasia Nair
As I transition from girl to woman, here are my reflections on the journey so far...
When I was a little girl, I was surrounded by innocence. I dreamed of being a woman, living in an apartment in New York with brick walls and a balcony, drinking red wine with my friends while doing our makeup on the floor, and buying flattering, pretty dresses and heels like my mum. All I wanted was to be this grown woman with total freedom and a stress-free life. As girls, it always seemed that adults were so free, but now we're adults ourselves we realise, it is in fact the children who are free.
I have become a fledgling woman, only to discover I want to be a child again! The transition from girl to woman is like no other. My advice? Embrace the process! The thing to remember is this: We’re always going to have that little girl within us, no matter how old, how wise, or how big we get. For most, growing up is exciting; for some it's nerve-racking, watching our rooms, clothing preferences and bodies change over the years. Perhaps there is no real preparation beyond puberty – you just grow up and learn to change.
Girlhood was being in primary school, carefree and so present in life. Our only focus was to have fun; making daisy chains with our friends while gossiping about the boys, coming home and begging our mums to arrange play-dates with our friends, and hating homework, when in reality it was easy spelling tests and fun arts and crafts. I often find myself reminiscing about the simplicity of life back then; our biggest concerns were whether to be a fairy, princess, or mermaid! The ability to dream without limitations, and believe in the impossible was truly magical. I miss that childlike wonder and the excitement of seeing the world through the lens of endless possibilities. The innocence of being a girl is something I cherish. Back then, I viewed the world with curiosity and openness. I approached experiences and people without preconceived notions or judgments. I miss that innocence, where everything was new and exciting, and every day held the promise of discovery.
Then comes the transition to teenagerhood and getting to know the changes in our body, mood and priorities. We realise we are no longer flat-chested, our skin isn't as clear as it used to be, and we are unsure how to
navigate new emotions rushing through our bodies. We have to see-saw between two opposite possibilities; tomboy or 'girly' girlyou’re either playing sports or learning how to do makeup; there seems to be no space in between. Teenager-hood is being 13 and having an eye for fashion but also being a fast runner, while fitting yourself into one of two socially 'palatable' boxes. In reality, you don't fit in either. It's waking up with a bulging pimple on your forehead and getting your period, making you believe this is the real transition into womanhood. Teenagerhood is fighting with your mum about how she doesn’t understand what you're going through when in truth, she understands only too well.
Late teens is about being 17 and accepting the changes to your body, and discovering who you are and what you stand for. It’s about navigating through friendships you thought would last forever, and then moving on and finding new ones. You realise that not everyone is meant to be your friend and you learn to value the genuine friendships you do have. You start to handle your emotions; learning to manage these emotions is a big part of growing up. Sometimes it feels overwhelming, but it's also empowering to understand and express how you feel. Contrary to this, you feel life is 'rigged', there is no winning, and you are always ‘too’ something or other; too loud or too quiet, too ambitious or too lazy, too skinny or too fat, too tall or too short. We learn it doesn't actually matter all that much.
Moving into adulthood ourselves is realising that our mothers are navigating through life as well, and the world doesn’t
revolve around us. We begin to sympathise with the tough moments they have been through and feel guilty for the times we were difficult. You realise how much your mother has sheltered you from the harsh realities of the world, just to protect you. Now you feel like you are entering womanhood and glimpse the realities of both the joy and the stress life comes with. You begin to question - do I want to be a woman anymore?
Womanhood is having memories of yourself as a little girl and forever holding her to your heart. Enjoying every minute of life because you wished you had when you were younger. It’s having an emergency period kit in your purse, or stumbling into a bathroom on a night out and helping a random sister with her mascara. Womanhood is many things, and a lot of it is accepting the little girl you were and loving her unconditionally. We all go through difficult times, whether it's mental health, losing friends you thought would last, or a breakup, but the best thing we can do is love ourselves. As my mum says, you won’t be able to love others if you're not capable of loving yourself first.
Channel Mag's youth contributors, Fantasia Nair and Ellie Brown bring a fresh monthly feature to our pages to inspire and advise our younger North Shore readers. If there are any topics you'd like to read about, contact Liz at liz@channelmag.co.nz and our fledgling writers will research and write engaging articles specifically for our younger (at heart) readers.
Kristin took a deep dive ‘under the sea’ this term, with our Middle School production of Disney’s 'The Little Mermaid Jr'. Adapted from the 1989 animated feature film, this 60-minute musical version of the story was the perfect show for our Middle School to tackle in 2024 – with close to 170 students benefiting from the theatrical experience, either on or off stage.
Once again, our Kristin production team worked theatrical miracles to embrace the challenges that come with a show such as Disney’s 'The Little Mermaid Jr'. Taking the audience through a story that is set both on land and under the water requires creativity of the highest order. Thankfully, the commitment of our talented team knows no bounds. Incredible costumes
were designed, created or re-imagined to bring the ocean floor to life – complete with jellyfish, starfish, puffer fish and more. On the shore, flamingos, frogs, gulls, turtles and sailors were among the impressive array of costumed characters that graced the stage. Intricate scenery pieces complemented these dazzling costumes; all illuminated with a professional lighting design.
One of the hallmarks of this very special production was the magical flying effects provided by Theatrical Solutions. This state-of-the-art flying rig allowed some of the technically complex scenes from the show to come to life in a manner that blew audience members away. From flapping seagulls to drowning princes to transforming mermaids, this unbelievable
effect was a true highlight of our production and one that the six cast members who were lifted high above the stage will remember for the rest of their lives.
Each student who took part in Disney’s 'The Little Mermaid Jr' – either as a cast member or a member of one of our many backstage and technical crews –was provided with another exceptional educational opportunity. Beyond the performances, many life skills are enhanced through an involvement in theatre. It is proven that the performing arts grow academic achievement and social engagement in young people, and Kristin is proud to offer such a high-quality programme in each of our musical theatre productions each year.
Kristin Year 8 student Victoria Xin is now a golf world champion after winning the IMG World U12 Championship in the United States of America. Played on the Heights Golf Course in San Diego; Victoria shot impressive scores of 69, 69 and 72 to win the three-round tournament by two shots over 90 golfers from all over the world.
Victoria won selection by New Zealand Golf to compete at this pinnacle event and made history as the first Kiwi golfer ever to win it. To put in perspective the level of this achievement, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson are both previous winners of the boys’ event.
Kristin is incredibly proud of Victoria’s remarkable achievement on the world stage.
Kristin is proud to announce that Year 12 student Angelina Ibrahim has been selected to participate in the prestigious UN Youth Aotearoa's Global Development Tour for 2025. Angelina is one of 20 students from across New Zealand selected for this tour. The tour will take place early next year, visiting major cities at the forefront of sustainable development. This unique opportunity will allow Angelina to explore equality, sustainability, and global citizenship themes from diverse perspectives.
Among the various destinations, Angelina is particularly eager to visit New York. "We will be conducting a Model United Nations conference with students from Columbia University," she shares. Additionally, the group will engage with various UN organisations, including UNESCO, and visit the United Nations headquarters.
Through the Global Development Tour, Angelina hopes to discover new perspectives, build international connections, and expand her knowledge of globally significant topics.
Angelina is passionate about youth advocacy and aims to represent her community's voice, particularly concerning climate change and poverty. She looks forward to gaining diverse opinions that
will enrich her perspective and enhance her leadership skills.
“I will prepare for this trip by researching the UN Global Sustainable Goals and identifying areas most important to my life and community. I will be preparing questions to ask ambassadors from global organisations to further develop my
knowledge of different UN missions. I will also be researching the policies of different countries to prepare myself for the MUN session at Columbia University.”
Kristin congratulates Angelina on this incredible achievement and looks forward to following her journey as she represents New Zealand.
Phia Marshall (Y11) recently participated in the 2024 Junior Tri-nations indoor netball tournament, representing New Zealand. It involved a six-a-side competition and a seven-a-side competition. Two teams from New Zealand, two from Australia, and one from South Africa participated. Phia’s team – U15 New Zealand Silver, placed fourth in the six-a-side and fifth in the seven-a-side. Congratulations, Phia!
Photos from a six-a-side game.
In June, nearly 200 students participated in the World Vision 40-Hour Challenge, raising $10,076.49 through various activities. Top fundraisers were recognised at an assembly, and Westlake Girls earned a gold award for raising over $10,000, along with several leadership and organiser awards. Thank you to everyone who participated!
Why choose Westlake Girls?
• Inspiring environment: Empower young women
• Quality training: Hands-on experience with supportive mentors
• Strong community: Join our vibrant, diverse school
We have places available on our in-school teacher training courses offered through ASTTP (Waikato University) and The Teachers Institute. For more information, email Sarah Hooper at shooper@westlakegirls.school.nz
On Wednesday 7 October, nine students visited the Albany District Court district to gain firsthand experience of the legal system. They observed live cases and participated in sessions with legal professionals, including a criminal lawyer and judges, who shared insights into their roles. The visit was an eye-opening experience that deepened students’ understanding of the legal system. The judges and other professionals provided valuable advice, support, and inspiration about potential careers.
Last week, we welcomed Rachel Antony, CEO of Greenstone TV, as our Career Bites speaker. She shared her diverse career journey, from studying journalism to her current executive role, while encouraging students to seize opportunities and follow their passions. Students left the session with valuable insights into the media industry and the importance of curiosity.
Our cycling team picked up enough points to retain the Top Boys School trophy at the North Island championships in Cambridge in July. The highlight of the opening day was Harry Shannon's gold in the U17 road race, continuing his impressive North Island record. Our U17 boys dominated, securing three of the top five spots in this event. Additional podium finishes included Joshua Bayley (third in U15) and Liam Lloyd (second in U20).
The second day featured the criterium, a fan favourite at Karapiro, where we claimed more podiums: two thirds and a second. The pinnacle U20 criterium saw Liam Lloyd crowned the new title holder, joining the ranks of WBHS legends.
In August our cyclists won the Auckland Schools team time trial series. This is the first time we’ve won the overall senior series since 2010.
The Westlake ensembles have once again wowed audiences and adjudicators at the annual KBB Music Festival, with several memorable performances across the six days of the event, held at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell. Westlake had three gold-standard groups represented in the gala concerts.
Westlake Concert Band (combined with Westlake Girls): Gold Award; Special Award for a Pre-1950s Work ('Gum Sucker’s
March', Grainger); Special Award for an Original Concert Band Work ('Angels in the Architecture', Ticheli).
Westlake Symphony Orchestra (combined with Westlake Girls): Gold Award; Special Award for the Best Performance of a Classical Work ('Barber of Seville Overture', Rossini); Special Award for the Best Performance of an Other Styles Work ('Festive Overture', Shostakovich).
Westlake Boys Camerata: Gold Award; Special Award for an Outstanding Performance featuring Soloist (Matthew Donaldson – trombone).
Westlake Boys Symphonic Band: Gold Award.
Westlake Big Band (combined with Westlake Girls): Silver Award.
Westlake Chamber Orchestra (combined with Westlake Girls): Silver Award.
Westlake Boys Stage Band: Bronze Award.
Westlake Boys is the Top Boys swimming school in New Zealand after winning the trophy for the fourth consecutive year. The 2024 New Zealand Secondary School Swimming Championships took place from 25-28 July at the Sir Owen Glenn National Aquatic Centre, featuring 666 swimmers from 154 schools across New Zealand.
Westlake Boys was well-represented, showcasing strong camaraderie and energy throughout the competition. The event opened with Westlake students leading the national anthem, a karakia, and a haka, followed by Brandon Holder reading the Competitors Oath.
Key highlights included Jacob Humphries’ win in the skins event, victory in the 8x50 FR relay, and Jacob setting a new New Zealand Age Group record of 55.88 in the 100 fly. The competition concluded with another relay win, securing Westlake Boys the Top Boys School trophy for the fourth consecutive year.
On Friday, 2 August, more than 250 grandparents joined their grandsons for assembly, morning tea, and a tour around campus. Our guests were entertained by the Symphonic Band, who performed 'September' by Earth, Wind & Fire. Mr Ferguson encouraged students to spend time with their grandparents, urging them
to "talk to them, ask them questions, and ask for advice. Your life will be better for it."
Senior prefects also shared valuable lessons learned from their grandparents. Head Boy Matt Young emphasised the importance of looking on the bright side and how his grandparents "were always there for me when I felt frustrated or disheartened".
Cultural Captain Declan Squire reflected on his close relationships with three of his grandparents and a great-grandparent, describing them as "generous, supportive, giving, family-oriented, and loving", and highlighted the wisdom and unique strengths they impart.
Business and Enterprise students have successfully studied real life businesses and had the opportunity to experientially apply their learning to run their own school business activities. We have had many market days this year resulting in a range of products and services being offered to the school student community. Level 2 Business Students created a wide range of delectable food products which were well supported by their peers who enjoyed different options for their lunches. The proceeds of these businesses were used to improve community wellbeing by supporting many charities.
The Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) is an integrated hands-on business programme
that is completed by Level 3 Business Studies students who plan and operate their own businesses for the entire year. These students showcased and sold their products at our school Open Evening in July.
Three students were lucky enough to participate in the The AUT Shadow a Leader Programme. This programme invites New Zealand’s organisation leaders to provide an opportunity for an AUT business and law student and an Auckland secondary school student to ‘shadow’ them for a day. It's an
innovative, industry-focused and educational initiative to support the development of future leaders of New Zealand. Mila Goodhart-Pilsbury was invited to spend her day with Microsoft, Isla Halsey with The Child Cancer Foundation and Sophie Green with Foodstuffs.
It was a privilege to host the North Shore Principal’s Group onsite last month including Minister of Education Erica Stanford. They had a very informative discussion around the education system. It was lovely to welcome the Minister and Principals to our school.
Year 13 student Bailey Flavell made her debut for the Tall Ferns who played in the FIBA qualifying tournament in Mexico in August. 17-year-old Bailey is the only Auckland school student currently in the country's top women's team.
Rosmini College has unveiled its new school mascot, Tony the Eagle! Aiming to encourage school spirit and brotherhood, Tony was inspired by the Trento coat of arms, from the home province of Antonio Rosmini. Head boy Yilin Lin says, "The eagle is no ordinary bird. It’s a symbol of freedom, of vision, of power and is the hometown animal of Antonio Rosmini. Eagles don’t just fly – they soar, high above the ground, seeing things from a perspective that few can reach. We’re a school that reaches for the sky, that sees the bigger picture, and that never backs down from a challenge." Look out for him at upcoming sport fixtures!
On Wednesday 1 August the Rosmini College music department hosted a vibrant concert celebrating the school's musical talent, featuring performances from the Rosmini orchestra, Junior Jazz Group, two student rock bands, the senior Jazz Combo, Carmini Choir, Junior Ensemble, Chamber Choir, and solo act Radeesha De Silva.
The diverse lineup showcased impressive compositions, skill, and enthusiasm, creating a memorable evening for the 400+ guests in attendance.
Meanwhile, the Rosmini College orchestra performed exceptionally well in the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell as part of the KBB music festival. The 40-strong orchestra entertained the crowd with four contrasting pieces, and went on to receive a Highly Commended award, with judges commending the players on their energy and commitment to music making, and noted that their engagement with the music created a rapport with the audience.
On Friday 9 August, 138 Rosmini students participated in the Auckland Secondary Schools Tough Guy and Gal Challenge at the Kumeu Showgrounds, joining over 800 competitors in a demanding six-kilometre muddy course.
The keen students all embraced the challenge and had a great time.
A huge congratulations to the team which was crowned Toughest Male School for 2024. Special mention goes to Kato Gerald (Y13) who came second overall, and Xavier Wells (Y12) and Chris Wyllie (Y13) for their top ten finish.
Rangitoto College is proud to be a founding school within the Auckland Schools’ Teacher Trainee Programme (ASTTP) – a course which sees talented prospective teachers train in schools while completing their qualifications through Waikato University. The accessibility of experience and professional development from our highly qualified teachers allows the trainees a rewarding and enriching learning journey while gaining their teaching qualification.
Trainee teacher Kevin Huh speaks of his experience at Rangitoto College during the ASTTP: “I am fortunate to be a part of the Auckland Schools' Teacher Training Programme for this year at Rangitoto College. This programme has helped enhance my teaching skills and develop innovative pedagogies for education.
"For the past seven years, I have studied as a postgraduate student and worked as an
English teacher in Korea. I enjoyed studying social science and teaching so much that I merged the two to become a social science/ history teacher.
"I am grateful to have an incredible mentor, to be surrounded by an exceptional group of teachers in the social science department, and to be a part of this wonderful kura.”
For more information and to apply, please email traintoteach@rangitoto.school.nz.
Are you a builder, considering a career change into secondary teaching? Do you currently hold the following qualifications and experience in Hard Technology?
• A relevant trades qualification on the NZQF or equivalent;
• a minimum of 5 yrs of relevant work experience, in the last 8 yrs, in a trade (e.g. builder, carpenter) relevant to teaching technology education subjects;
• When applying for a GradDipTchg (Secondary) you will also need to provide a body of evidence that maps your experience against the curriculum area you seek to teach.
Rangitoto College, along with other select Auckland secondary schools, offers a remote postgraduate degree with the University of Waikato. This programme will be delivered while you work onsite to transition you into your teaching career. By training onsite there's the chance to be mentored by experts in your subject-area specialisation as you train. This immersion track takes one year and gives you industry experience in a top secondary school for the whole year of training. A $12,500.00 pa. compensation payment is offered for the intern’s time. More information can be found at rangitoto.school.nz/employment/auckland-schools-teacher-training/.
The position commences Term 1, 2025. Email traintoteach@rangitoto.school.nz if you require any further information.
Rangitoto College swimmers have made a splash this year, showcasing their prowess both locally and on the national stage with remarkable achievements.
On May 17, the Auckland Champion of Champions swimming competition witnessed Rangitoto College’s swimmers emerging as a dominant force. Their journey to this event began with standout performances at the North Harbour Zones, where they excelled in individual races and delivered thrilling relays, earning their spots at the Auckland competition.
The team’s dedication is evident in their gruelling training regimen, which includes nearly 18 hours of practice each week, often starting with early morning sessions. Their commitment paid off spectacularly at the Auckland competition, where they secured a remarkable 17 medals, cementing their
reputation for excellence.
The success continued from 25-28 July, when 45 Rangitoto swimmers took to the pool at the New Zealand Secondary School Championships in Auckland. Over four action-packed days and six intense sessions, the team not only captured the titles of Top Overall Co-Educational School and Top Girls’ Relay School, but also demonstrated impressive individual performances.
Despite swimming being often seen as an individual sport, Rangitoto's swimmers showcased their teamwork and tenacity, competing in multiple races, backing up their individual performances with relay events, and pushing themselves to the limit in finals. Their efforts resulted in an impressive haul of 10 gold, 16 silver, and 15 bronze medals. Individually, Brendan Visser, Monique Wieruszowski, Lani Kim, and Helena Yule
each earned national titles.
The team's success was also due to the unwavering support of parent volunteers, with a special mention to Adrienne Carter, whose dedication played a crucial role in ensuring the team’s smooth and memorable experience.
Rangitoto College’s swimmers have truly proven their mettle, making waves and setting a high standard for excellence in the pool.
At Carmel College we support our academic, practical and social learning with the Catholic values of the Mercy tradition: justice, service, respect, care and courage. This legacy of our founding Sisters of Mercy is part of our daily practice.
One way that we make it real is through our service programme. All students are expected to participate. Students choose their own action meeting these criteria: in their own time, unpaid, plus of benefit to the community, or the environment, or another person outside the immediate household. Chores at home are important but do not count as service. Some examples are:
• Volunteering at toy libraries, public libraries, op shops, food rescue, community gardens,
• St John Youth – leadership, teaching first aid, competition training,
• street collections for charity and sponsored fundraising, running Round the Bays,
• prepping food for donated meals, food parcels, fundraisers, charitable events,
• supporting sports events in every imaginable code: as ball girls, boat holders, umpires, scorers, runners, setup and cleanup crew,
• housework, dog walking, car cleaning and gardening for elders and neighbours,
• letter-writing and card-making for the ill and elderly,
• animal shelters: cleaning and feeding vulnerable animals,
• supporting learning: tutoring, caring for school equipment and classrooms, helping at their former primary schools and preschools,
• rubbish cleanup, tree planting and ecological restoration at beaches and parks,
• sports coaching and surf lifesaving.
STUDENTS SAY:
"This year I showed the gospel value of compassion in all the activities I was involved in, through using my time to make the spaces I was involved in (netball, a community dinner, leadership, Wairau estuary clean up) a caring and welcoming space."
"I helped Year 7 and 8 students develop a sport that was important to them. We did
weekly training and games and created a positive team environment where the kids made many friends."
"I helped children with autism by taking them shopping, swimming, and supported them with homework. I gave them attention and tried to learn more about them as a person. This service taught me that all individuals have genuine talents even though their learning styles may differ. I enjoyed doing service and would do it again in the future, out of school."
"My service this year has really helped me to grow as a person. Although I’ve been doing service since Year 8 when the programme was introduced, this year –being my last – has allowed me to find a deeper appreciation for the programme and its significance to our school and ourselves, allowing me to appreciate the positive impact that doing these acts of service can have for the community."
Thanks to the parents, teachers and other community members who support our students in their service experience. If you have a community project or cause that would benefit from some student energy, please contact the Carmel College service coordinator (service@carmel. school.nz).
A number of local sporting clubs, societies and community groups started off, or, more often, were revived, in the post-Second World War period. From 1949, their meetings were covered in often great detail in the 'North Shore Times', although some geographic areas across the North Shore area were better covered than others. After all, their 'roving reporter' couldn't be everywhere and not every organisation provided regular copy for publication in the 'Times'.
Queen Elizabeth visited Devonport on 26 December 1953, and her visit was generally well publicised in the newspaper. Sporting results for some local matches also featured in the 'North Shore Times', as did some family celebrations, engagements, weddings and obituaries. However, most continued to acknowledge such family events in either or both the morning 'New Zealand Herald' and evening 'Auckland Star'.
By David Verran
Although the first service at the St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Milford was on 18 December 1949, it wasn't until early 1950 that the new church featured in the 'North Shore Times'. Part of the Takapuna parish, it was estimated to have a potential congregation of 600 and the building to be the result of ten years' work. Previously Mass was held in the Picturedrome cinema in Milford Road.
The 'North Shore Times' was initially printed in 1949 in the central city, at 31 Campbell's Buildings in Vulcan Lane (near High Street) by R A Ryan and Company. From 5 April 1950, the 'North Shore Times' also incorporated the 'Devonport News, official organ of the Devonport Businessmen's Association'. Robert Alexander Ryan (1911-1980) then established an office for the 'Times' at Halls Corner in Takapuna from 28 June 1950 and started printing the 'Times' at 102 Kitchener Road (part of Malcolm's Buildings) near Dodson Avenue in Milford from 31 January 1951.
The rival 'North Shore Advertiser' started on 4 May 1954 and was initially published by North Shore Printers at 48 Hurstmere Road in Takapuna, near the corner with Anzac Street. That publisher was Philip
Arnaud Lesmoir Phillips (1915-1984) and North Shore Printers had initially been formed around 1937. Both titles were combined in 1966 as the 'North Shore Times Advertiser' and the present day successor, the 'North Shore Times', is now published by Stuff.
The Second World War (1939-1945) remained in people's thoughts and memories. The Takapuna War Memorial Hall and Takapuna R.S.A. rooms were opened on 27 February 1954 and the Northcote War Memorial Hall in 1956. Birkenhead Borough in the early 1950s was developing its proposed War Memorial Park. The 8 March 1950 issue featured an artist's concept of the proposed park on the front page, with further details on inside pages. The park was formally opened on 19 April 1958.
Subdivision of the large Catholic and Hospital Board land endowments in the northern parts of Northcote Borough, including around Ocean View and Raleigh Roads, was more from the mid- to late-1950s. The Northcote Shopping Centre, formerly on Catholic land, opened Friday 19 June 1959 at 7.30pm.
david.verran@xtra.co.nz
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.
Max and Fiona had both been married before and had children from previous marriages. They had been together for several years but had never bothered to get married. They owned their family home and beach bach together, but in different shares, reflecting the different financial contributions that each of them had made to these assets. Max also had some savings from his previous marriage and Fiona had a large KiwiSaver as she had been making 10% contributions for the last ten years, saving hard for retirement. Max got on well with his two daughters, but unfortunately Fiona didn’t get on at all with one of her children. Her middle son had made some questionable lifestyle choices and had slowly distanced himself over time from the family. He had made it clear that he wanted nothing to do with Fiona, or his siblings for that matter. While Fiona found this upsetting, she did amend her will so that she left a life interest to Max in her share in the house and bach, with her KiwiSaver going to her other two children. They would also receive Fiona’s share in the house and bach when Max died, if Fiona died first. On the advice of her lawyer, she had left her estranged son 10% of her total assets to try and prevent him making any claim against her estate.
After only six weeks of wedded bliss, Fiona tragically had a terrible accident – she was hit on her bike while riding to the gym early one morning and sustained a head injury, from which she never recovered. Max had been appointed her attorney under an enduring power of attorney some time ago and while he had to consult with two of her three children, he was able to make the difficult decision to switch off Fiona’s life support. He knew she would not have wanted to live with the brain damage she had sustained, and her heart would not keep going without the life support.
A few weeks later Max went to the lawyer’s office to attend to Fiona’s estate. He knew that he had been appointed executor of her will together with the lawyer. However, when Max told their lawyer that they had recently been married in Rarotonga, she told him that that changed a lot of things. In particular, the will that Fiona had carefully crafted was now null and void. Marriage is one of the few things that invalidates a current will. As Fiona hadn’t updated her will after getting married, or made a will in contemplation of marriage, it meant she didn’t have a will.
… Max told their lawyer that they had recently been married in Rarotonga, she told him that that changed a lot of things.
Last year, on a whim, Max and Fiona decided to get married. They were going to Rarotonga for a holiday and Max asked Fiona if she would like to get married while they were there. She said yes and they organised the marriage certificate and a very low-key affair with only the witnesses provided by the wedding planner. They decided that they had been together long enough that they were the only ones who needed to be there, and they would tell everyone when they got home. They were secretly excited to be in their 60s and eloping. They had a wonderful time in Rarotonga and then a party with friends and family a few weeks after their marriage, surprising them by telling them that they had already married while on holiday.
That meant that her estate would be dealt with under the Administration Act. Max would receive the first $155,000 and one third of the balance, outright. The remaining two thirds would be divided equally between her three children, including her estranged son. This was vastly different to what Fiona had wanted. It also meant that, even though Max was receiving a portion of her estate, as Max did not have a life interest in their bach and the family home, he had to sell the bach to pay Fiona’s children out. It also meant that Fiona’s estranged son received a much larger portion of the estate than Fiona had wanted him to.
It is so important to review your will whenever your personal circumstances change, especially when some changes in circumstances mean that your will is invalid, and your wishes won’t be adhered to.
Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law
It is recommended to review your will every five years, or whenever your circumstances change.
When you make a will you are creating a lasting legacy for your loved ones, with the opportunity to have your say.
Significant milestones such as marriage, separation, death, a change in your assets, or expanding your family can affect your assets being distributed in the way you want them to be.
Ensure your final wishes are respected and get advice that reflects your personal situation. Contact our Trust and Wealth Protection team to review your will.
Intellectual property (IP) is a critical asset for many businesses as it represents the innovation and know-how a business possesses which makes it unique and successful. A business needs to maintain its IP to secure its competitive edge, generate revenue, and secure its long-term success in the marketplace.
The tax implications of IP are complex and often overlooked. Recently NBR published an article on how the Pushpay (church payment and software management company founded in New Zealand) IP restructure delivered a US$188 million tax benefit to its new owners. Such examples demonstrate a need to consider the tax implications of IP, both locally and internationally, as part of a business’s IP management so that your business is well positioned from a tax perspective.
Intellectual property structuring in New Zealand
Structuring IP effectively can have significant tax and legal implications. In New Zealand, the structuring of IP involves consideration under various legislative frameworks, including the Patents Act 1953, the Income Tax Act 2007 and international tax rules.
Patents and intellectual property rights
In New Zealand, patents are governed by the Patents Act 1953, administered by the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand. A patent grants the patentee the exclusive right to exploit the patented invention for a defined term.
Tax implications of intellectual property
The tax treatment of IP in New Zealand is influenced by several factors, including the creation, ownership and transfer of IP. Key considerations include:
• Royalties derived from IP linked to New Zealand are subject to tax. The definition of "linked to New Zealand" is comprehensive, covering any connection such as ownership by a New Zealand resident or creation in New Zealand.
• Expenditure on creating or acquiring IP can be deductible, but the specific rules depend on the nature of the IP and the business activities.
• New Zealand's Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) rules aim to protect the tax base. IP created in New Zealand and moved offshore could have New Zealand tax implications.
• Unlike many other jurisdictions, New Zealand does not have a general capital gains tax. However, the transfer of IP to a CFC could have tax implications, particularly if the IP was created or enhanced in New Zealand.
Strategic considerations for IP structuring
Effective IP structuring involves strategic planning to optimise tax outcomes and protect IP rights. Key strategies include:
• Establishing an IP holding company can centralise the management and exploitation of IP. This can provide tax benefits, such as the ability to claim deductions for IP-related expenses and manage royalty income efficiently.
• For businesses operating internationally, structuring IP through favourable and established jurisdictions can be beneficial.
Accountancy with Mike Atkinson of Bellingham Wallace
The tax treatment of IP in New Zealand is influenced by several factors, including the creation, ownership and transfer of IP.
However, it is essential to ensure compliance with New Zealand's CFC rules and other anti-avoidance provisions.
• Transfer pricing rules require that transactions involving IP between related parties are conducted at arm's length. Proper documentation and compliance with these rules are crucial to avoid tax disputes and penalties.
• Licensing IP to third parties or using a franchising model can generate royalty income while retaining ownership of the IP. This can be an effective way to expand business operations and monetise IP.
Intellectual property structuring in New Zealand requires careful consideration of legal and tax implications. By understanding the relevant legislation and employing strategic planning, businesses can optimise their IP management and enhance their competitive advantage.
At Bellingham Wallace, we have worked with clients to commercialise their IP. Our tax team has a wealth of experience in local and international tax structuring. Please get in touch with us if you would like to discuss your IP needs.
Visit: bellinghamwallace.co.nz
By Alison Dymond - Director.
Ali is an
experienced lawyer
and leads the Property and Commercial team at Schnauer and Co. Ali approaches legal issues with a pragmatic mindset, striving to secure the most suitable business-oriented resolutions for her clients. Her passion for aiding others shines through, and collaborating with her clients to attain their objectives brings her a genuine feeling of accomplishment.
Refinancing your mortgage is a decision that should be made carefully, considering both the current economic environment and your personal financial situation. With the recent decrease in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) from 5.5% to 5.25%, many homeowners are asking if now is the right time to refinance. There are signs that inflation is getting under control and the Reserve Bank has indicated that there may be one more cut to the OCR before the end of 2024.
So what does this actually mean? The OCR is a tool used by the Reserve Bank to influence economic activity. By lowering the OCR, the Reserve Bank encourages borrowing and spending by making it cheaper for banks to lend money. This typically results in lower interest rates on loans, including mortgages.
The recent decrease in the OCR is part of the Reserve Bank's efforts to stimulate our sluggish economy. For homeowners, this could mean that interest rates on mortgages might stay low for the rest of 2024 and into 2025. If you’re currently on a fixed-rate mortgage, refinancing to a lower rate could help you save money over the life of your loan.
Is now the right time to refinance? Deciding whether to refinance involves considering several factors. The most immediate benefit of refinancing is the potential to secure a lower interest rate, which could reduce your mortgage repayments. Even a slight reduction in your interest rate can lead to significant savings over time.
Another reason to consider refinancing is to change the structure of your loan. For example, you might want to have parts of your loan on different fixed rates so that you can benefit from locking in lower rates for the foreseeable future.
However, there are costs associated with refinancing. This includes break costs/early repayment fees and legal fees. It is critical to calculate whether the savings from a lower interest rate outweigh these upfront costs.
Crystal ball-gazing. As we look ahead to the rest of 2024 and into 2025, the future of interest rates will largely depend on how the New Zealand economy performs. If inflation remains under control and the economy continues to grow, we may see interest rates stay low or even decrease further. However, if inflation picks up or the global economic environment changes, rates could rise again.
For those considering refinancing, this means that now could be an opportune time to act. Locking in a lower rate while it’s available could protect you against future rate increases. On the other hand, if rates drop further, those on variable rates or who wait to refinance could benefit even more.
A mortgage broker or financial advisor can help you navigate the complexities of refinancing and determine the best course of action. With the right strategy, refinancing could be a smart financial move that puts you in a better position for the future.t financial move that puts you in a better position for the future.
Schnauer & Co,
1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna 09 486 0177
schnauer.com
In light of the recent education initiatives announced by the new government, many parents are considering what these changes might mean for their children. The government’s new measures focus on addressing achievement rates, particularly in numeracy and literacy, with a reported 22% of Year 8 students nationwide currently meeting the expected benchmarks in mathematics. This has led to significant revisions of the curriculum and the introduction of twice-yearly assessments for mathematics.
At Kristin, our commitment to academic excellence is reflected in our students' impressive results. For example, 98% of our Year 10 students met the numeracy co-requisite (required for University Entrance) at their first attempt. These outcomes highlight the effectiveness of our evidence-based teaching methodologies and comprehensive assessment practices. By monitoring student progress through external standardised tests and internal teacher assessments, we ensure that each child receives support targeted to their individual needs.
Our approach is grounded in consistently prioritising researchbased teaching methodologies and ongoing professional development for our educators. This commitment allows us to stay at the forefront of effective teaching practices, particularly in critical areas like mathematics. Our independent status enables us to rapidly adapt to new research and implement innovative strategies that enhance student learning.
We also believe that learning extends beyond the classroom, and parents play a crucial role in reinforcing numeracy skills at home. Here are some ways parents can support their children's mathematics learning:
1. Incorporate maths into everyday activities: Engage your child in activities like cooking, where measuring ingredients helps reinforce concepts of weight, volume, and temperature, as well as understanding tens, hundreds, and decimals.
2. Talk about fractions: Use everyday items like pizza or cake to introduce and discuss fractions. Ask your child how many slices the pizza is divided into and how many pieces they have, helping them visualise and understand fractions.
3. Use an analogue clock: Having an analogue clock on display at home is a great way to teach your child about time. Regularly refer to the clock and discuss the time to help them understand the relationship between the numbers and the passage of time.
4. Encourage counting and number recognition: For younger children, activities like counting objects, sorting items by size or quantity, or recognising numbers in the environment (such as on houses or buses) can strengthen basic numeracy skills.
5. Play maths games: Engage your child with games that involve maths, such as board games that require counting spaces, card games that involve addition or subtraction, or digital apps designed to make maths fun.
6. Practise multiplication facts: Help your child memorise multiplication facts through fun and interactive methods. Use flashcards, sing multiplication songs, or employ visual representations like arrays to show equivalence, such as demonstrating that 5x3 is the same as 3x5.
Mathematics teaches vital skills, such as critical thinking and logic, that are transferable to a wide range of contexts. Schools and parents working together can make a big difference in this critical area.
By Richard Thorne, Devonport Business Improvement District Manager
There are plenty of reasons locals think of Devonport as a village, or even ‘the village’: its seaside location, peninsulaend geography, historic homes, Windsor Reserve etc. But if there is one thing that turns a suburb into a village it lies in the community spirit found therein, and in Devonport there’s no better example than Uglys Community Pantry.
Justin Burke and his wife Kath are the very community-minded folk behind Uglys, cleverly sub-titled ‘Beautiful On The Inside’. Operating largely from a driveway in Clarence St. with an honesty box stall and prices from $1 to $5, Justin describes it as an op-shop for food.
Their low profit business model stems from the first Covid lockdown which brought an abrupt end to Justin's travel agency business in March 2020. “I was walking around and saw all the fruit on trees. That started it! I thought we could use that surplus as a way to support schools and sports clubs.”
Kath’s jam and chutney-making from Devonport’s surplus fruit soon led to offers of end-of-day bakery items and other food waste resources, and in the collection process Justin discovered that across the peninsula there were numerous people facing hardships, including from several Council-owned housing areas. Today much of the food-sharing he does is with produce donated by supermarkets and smaller businesses such as Devonport’s Baked, taken directly to those struggling and often lonely residents.
He loves to chat and loves what pleasure such simple acts of charitable giving bring. Not only is Uglys minimising waste but helping people in need through old fashioned acts of kindness. “That’s what it’s about, and also I want to spread that idea of locals helping locals.”
You’ll find Justin selling a range of (beautiful on the inside!) fresh fruit and delicious preserves from a market table in central Devonport each weekend. The business keeps growing and he recently started printing a simple newsletter called Chatter, to help explain what Uglys is doing around our community.
One great example is the twice-weekly delivery of bread and rolls to Bayswater Kindergarten, where staff have turned the donations into a game for their tamariki. Each gets to choose a bag to take home as a contribution to their family food stocks – a neat way for them to learn about food and waste, as well as giving and receiving.
Devonport village is enriched by such community spirit, and the Uglys’ jams, relishes and sauces really do put the ‘local’ into shop local.
Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz
By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead
Check out other training and professional development for notfor-profit (NFP) groups on ANCAD’s LiiFT Aotearoa website. LiiFT Aotearoa Professional Development
There are some practical and helpful professional development and training sessions for NFP and community groups in September, and continuing throughout the year.
3 September, 6.30pm-7.45pm. On Zoom. Effective meetings: How to have a good board/committee meeting. Presenter Carol Scholes
5 September, 10am to 11.30am. On Zoom. Journalling: A reflective practice tool for NFP leaders. Presenter Sarah Doherty.
23 September, 1pm to 2.30pm. On Zoom. Leading hybrid teams: Working together apart. Presenter Aly McNicoll.
25 September, 9.30am to 2pm. In-person workshop at a Glenfield venue. Essential First Aid.
To find out more about each of these sessions and to register, head to ANCAD’s dedicated training website at LiiFT.nz
Community Accounting services: ANCAD's Community Accounting programme is a free and confidential service which offers support and assistance on accounting matters to community organisations within Aotearoa. If your organisation would like to make use of these FREE services, contact us on email eva@ancad.org.nz for more information.
2024 Funding Guide: ANCAD has produced this latest edition of the Funding Guide with lots of useful and helpful information for NFP groups and those seeking funding. Available as hard cover $45 or PDF version $25 from the ANCAD website (shop page) ancad.org.nz/shop/. NFP organisations in the Devonport-Takapuna and Hibiscus and Bays local board areas are entitled to a free copy, due to funding support received from these respective local councils. Email simon@ancad.org.nz for more information.
For more about what ANCAD is doing and how we can help, visit ancad.org.nz Facebook @ancad.org.nz Instagram ancadinc LiiFT Aotearoa, LiiFT.nz 0800 426 223 or info@ancad.org.nz
By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager
We have organised stencils to redo the faded distance markers around Sunnynook Park and are now taking enrolments for the marathon. Email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz to join in.
The idea is that you walk around Sunnynook Park (or your neighbourhood) throughout the month of September and see how many marathons you can do. A marathon is 42km. If you would like a booklet to record your laps then please call into the Sunnynook Community Centre office – they will be ready from Monday 2 September. If you register, you go in the draw to win some vouchers for local cafés etc. We will have an ‘end of marathon’ celebration on Saturday 5 October at 10am.
The idea is that you walk around Sunnynook Park (or your neighbourhood) throughout the month of September and see how many marathons you can do.
We have a ‘Kids' market’ on Saturday 5 October, from 10am to 12pm in the Tawa Room. This is a kids' market run by kids for kids.. Please come along, bring your children and support our local kids.
If you would like to hire the Kennedy Park Observation Post for a child’s birthday party / baby shower / family gathering / art class etc please email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz for more information. Please check out our website for up to date information about our classes.
If you would like to go on the online mailing list to receive our community newsletters please email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability
In August, I.Lead undertook its first group outdoor activity as part of the William Pike Challenge. The participants walked from St Heliers to Mission Bay (and back again), stopping for ice-cream along the way.
Over the next six months, the I.Lead WPC participants (all with various ability levels) will be encouraged to get inspired by the outdoors; building their resilience, wellbeing, confidence, and skills through outdoor adventures, community service, and passion projects. Disabled youth are often used to feeling left out of exciting opportunities and adventures, making this programme a game-changer. Participants, no matter their abilities or skill level, will have the opportunity to go sailing, rock climbing, nature-walking, and more.
To complete the challenge, participants are required to complete five outdoor activities, 20 hours of community service, and 20 hours of passion projects over a year. Through these activities, participants are given opportunities to step outside their comfort zones, develop and strengthen 21st-century skills, and have extraordinary experiences. I.Lead will be the first fully-disabled youth group to take part in the William Pike Challenge.
In August I.Lead members Amy and Abdulla attended the We Empower Us Summit in Murrays Bay, which was a dynamic and collaborative event that is part of an overall project focused on youth wellbeing and strengthening our community.
With the success of our first Dunedin I.Drive workshop last month, we will be hosting our second Dunedin I.Drive workshop in September. Originating in the North Shore of Auckland, I.Drive now hosts courses in Auckland’s North Shore, South Auckland, and Dunedin; with the first Hamilton workshop coming in October! I.Drive is well on its journey of expanding throughout the country. This will allow I.Drive the opportunity to reach more young disabled people in need of our support in attaining their licences.
I.Lead’s regional committees are in full swing, with committees in Auckland, Waikato, Wellington, and Dunedin. These committees meet monthly to discuss issues relevant to their region.
Our regional I.Lead committees enable members aged 16-30, who identify as disabled, to facilitate projects within their area, develop programmes and initiatives for local I.Lead members; and attend expos and conferences. Currently, we are working to establish committees in regions including Hawkes Bay, Blenheim, Christchurch, and Whāngarei. If you are interested in becoming a regional committee member, reach out via social media or email us at ilead@yesdisability.org.nz.
For more information about our programs and upcoming events, check out our websites and social media. ilead.org.nz/ • facebook.com/ileadconferencenz instagram.com/i.leadnz/ • tiktok.com/@i.lead linkedin.com/company/i-lead-org
sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz office@sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz.
Simon Gundry is a Devonport and North Shore identity, and character, who is known for calling a spade a spade. He is a director of contracting company Gill & Gundry, is an enthusiastic sailor (past crew-member of Ceramco New Zealand, Lion New Zealand and Shockwave) and is a life member of the North Shore Rugby Football Club. Simon was awarded a QSM for services to the community in 2013. More recently, he was inducted into the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame. He has been writing this thought-provoking column for Channel from the very first issue (over 14 years ago!).
Mr Gundry QSM is away travelling the world, so his old mate from the pub is back this month.
How good were the Olympics and congratulations to everyone who represented New Zealand so superbly and in particular our medal winners. Eleventh nation for medals and arguably the best country for medals by population. And, RayGun – surely Australia’s greatest ever contribution to Olympic sport?
As a gentleman of a certain age, I grew up in Devonport in the 1960s with the family home being reasonably close to Cheltenham beach. I attended Vauxhall School, primer 1 to standard 6, but after school our lives revolved around the Bath Street Reserve; it was our sporting arena and gathering place.
In winter, it would be soccer, rugby, epic full-contact bullrush contests, all activities in any weather and we’d play until the street lights came on.
Just consider a few of the developments that we depend upon today that were built during the 1960s…
In summer, it was cricket, softball, swimming, canoes, fishing and learning to sail. Maybe it’s my increasingly unreliable memory but I’m sure the weather was better, with long, hot and dry summers and the occasional big easterly gale to liven things up.
Looking back, it was an idyllic time and place to grow up, and yes we did have the freedom to roam widely that simply isn’t possible today. But there were boundaries and consequences, because if you did get up to mischief it was almost certain your mother would know about it long before you got home and you’d be greeted with “Mrs Williams phoned me, and just wait until I tell your father”.
New Zealand had one of the highest living standards in the world, we had a world class education system that concentrated on teaching the 3 Rs properly, an excellent health system, social welfare from “cradle to grave” and State Advances that helped people buy their first home.
Most of our butter and nearly every lamb we produced was sent off to Blighty and there were jobs aplenty. The then Prime Minister Sir Keith Holyoake once joked there were so few unemployed that he knew them all by name. That all changed in 1973 when Britain joined the EEC and the apron strings were cut. I tend to believe that apart from brief periods of prosperity, New Zealand has battled economically since.
Devonport was not a wealthy suburb and many of my friends’ families didn’t own a car or a tv; clothes were generally handed down from older siblings. By today’s standards there were few luxuries and I don’t recall any of my mates going to the GC or Fiji for their school holidays. I read in a recent Channel magazine about a school trip to Hawaii. I can only recall two school trips, one to the newly opened sewerage plant in Albany and a trip to a dairy farm in Dairy Flat. Hawaii didn’t even come close.
I’m sure staple food items were comparatively cheaper and having grown up in the Depression era, our mothers certainly knew how to make those essential food items go a long way and nothing was ever wasted. People did get by and there was resilience and selfsufficiency which appears to have diminished over the passing years.
We attended school every day and there had to be a particularly good reason not to. Our mothers made our lunches, and for a special treat on Fridays you could order fish and chips or a pie and a doughnut/cream bun for your school lunch. Imagine that today, the food police and perpetually outraged would be apoplectic at the mere thought.
They were simpler and less sophisticated times. New Zealand was a more egalitarian society. I don’t recall seeing obvious wealth nor do I recall seeing poverty either, although I’m sure it existed. I suspect most of our families had just enough to get by with a no frills, meat and three veg type existence. There were plenty of jobs but also a strong work ethic and it was important to have a job, no matter how humble, to support your family and do your best to provide for them. Families were valued as a unit, without too much state interference, and I think we were better off for that.
Rogernomics finished many of those “make work” jobs and I do understand why that needed to happen, but those jobs gave people a reason to get up each morning and a sense of pride and purpose, which leads us to today where we can have several generations of a family and nobody has ever been troubled by employment.
New Zealand was comparatively wealthy, ambitious and we had some forward-thinking leadership. Just consider a few of the developments that we depend upon today that were built during the 1960s: Benmore hydro scheme, Auckland Airport, expanding the Southern Motorway, Tongariro hydro scheme, waste treatment plant at Mangere, Kapuni gas field developed, harbour bridge 'Nippon" clip-ons, and the now shamefully vandalised Marsden Point Refinery.
As a country we currently face a multitude of issues, and we need a clearly articulated vision for our future, with a general consensus as to where we’re going and how we intend to get there. Sadly it’s hard to see how that will happen with such entrenched social and political division.
I recently walked our small hound around the rocks from Narrow Neck to Cheltenham on a brilliantly fine, crisp and clear winter’s morning. The Waitematā sparkled, Rangitoto looked green and magnificent and it occurred to me that despite all our problems, maybe this isn’t such a bad place after all, and who knows, perhaps New Zealand’s best years really are ahead of us. Let’s all hope so.
Bowls North Harbour patron and Milford resident Brett O’Riley is among a strong group of World Bowls officials who are pressing for the sport to be included at the Olympic Games in Brisbane in 2032.
It’s a goal that has been there even before the recent Olympics in Paris captivated seemingly the entire world.
Though bowls has been always in the Commonwealth Games, the notion of it being in the Olympics would not have been entertained by even the most enthusiastic bowlers a few years ago. Bowls then was seen primarily as a sport for those past their athletic prime. And it was a sport confined mainly to British countries and their colonial off-shoots in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and to a lesser extent, Canada. But as O’Riley points out neither of these notions is strictly accurate.
In Australia, particularly, at elite levels there is an emphasis on youth and few of its leading players are even 50. New Zealand’s leading bowlers, too, North Harbour’s own Selina Goddard for instance, are still in their 20s or early 30s. Selina, indeed, has the petite build of an international gymnast.
And in recent years bowls has expanded from what were its traditional countries. In 2023 there were 57 countries affiliated to World Bowls and O’Riley believes that because of the development work being done in the Pacific and Asia that could soon be up to 80.
As has been seen over the past 25 years bowls is a sport tailor-made for Asians. Malaysia and India only adopted bowls in earnest when each hosted the Commonwealth Games in 1998 and 2010. But now both countries abound in world class players.
To maintain the global growth O’Riley, in his role as World Bowls’ Oceania director, and other officials have been staging regional events as well as introducing a global ranking system and a challenge series.
One such event, which O’Riley describes as an unqualified success, was the Lion City Cup in Singapore in late July, a tournament in which O’Riley’s wife, prominent Takapuna and Harbour bowler and administrator Robyne Walker, won a pairs gold medal with current national women’s singles champion, Leeanne Poulson.
As well as New Zealand and hosts Singapore, China, Hong Kong,
Japan, the Philippines, Malaysia and India competed in this event.
There are other compelling reasons why, with Australia the host country, bowls would not be out of place in Queensland in 2032 and its presence no more incongruous than, say, rock climbing, BMX cycling or break dancing or even mainstream sports like golf, tennis, football, basketball and rugby sevens, all of which have their own major competitions.
Australia is a particularly strong bowls nation with 400,000 registered players and more than 190 clubs and, of course, Queensland’s Gold and Sunshine Coasts are two of the major hubs.
There also would be minimal costs in introducing bowls as an Olympics sport. The greens, facilities and infrastructure are already in place. Bowls also meets other criteria in being a game for both genders and for the disabled.
Bowls itself might have to make some concessions of it own, perhaps in some playing adjustments, with more quick-fire formats, power plays and games of shorter duration. Competition will be fierce from other sports but this might be the chance for bowls to have its moment in the Olympic spotlight.
O’Riley is also involved in trying to ensure bowls remains a Commonwealth Games sport in 2026, assuming a replacement venue can be found, currently rumoured to be Scotland.
bowlsnorthharbour.com
For over two decades Benefitz has been one of the very few in the New Zealand market to be able to print 5 metres wide. This is set to continue well into the future with the recent installation of the brand new Fujifilm Acuity Ultra R2 LED Printer – 5 metres wide!
This new machine has replaced our Uvistar 5 metre printer that we had for many years. The purchase continues our strong partnership with Fujifilm. They have been a very reliable supply partner for a long period.
As well as providing us with the best power in the country to print big images, the new machine offers many other advantages.
It is estimated that the Acuity Ultra R2 uses one third of the power required by the machine it is replacing, the benefits of the LED technology. Ink usage is 30-40% more efficient and there are also advantages in longevity of the LED technology (lamps etc).
The machine is faster, more automated, and resolution (quality) is also substantially higher at 1200dpi, versus the previous machine that was 600dpi.
Due to the improved resolution and extra substrates that this new machine prints on there will be advantages in versatility with the new technology.
“We have been customers of Fujifilm for over 25 years,” explained Benefitz MD Aidan Bennett, when reflecting on the decision to order the machine. “We work with them on small format digital machinery and our large/grand format machinery. We had no hesitation on choosing to entrust them again with this investment as they were fantastic with the support they provided on the previous machine. They are very good with their servicing and technical support.”
New Zealand’s newest and biggest printing machine for big images is printing now at Benefitz – powered by solar.
• Prints up to 5 metres wide and just about any length
• LED UV inks with 3.5 picolitre drop size at 1200dpi
• Prints billboard skins, mesh/scrim banners, fabrics, backlit images & more!
• Suitable for both outdoor & indoor prints.
For over two decades Benefitz has been one of the very few in the New Zealand market to be able to print 5 metres wide. This is set to continue well into the future with the recent installation of the brand new Fujifilm Acuity Ultra R2 UV Printer – 5 metres wide!
THE BENEFITS…
• Prints up to 5 metres wide and just about any length.
• LED UV inks with 3.5 picolitre drop size, superb quality!
• Prints big Billboard skins and PVC Mesh banners in no time.
• Also prints on Fabrics, Backlit and a wide range of substrates.
• High resolution for both Outdoor and Indoor prints.
• Powered by Solar.
Interested in advertising in our Services on the Shore section? Contact: Kim McIntosh: kim@channelmag.co.nz, 021 419 468
Liz Cannon: liz@channelmag.co.nz, 021 204 3395
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GARDEN DESIGN
Transforming outdoor spaces with thoughtful design and beautiful planting.
021 549 161 | hello@sculptgardens.co.nz sculptgardens.co.nz
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION
DRIVING SERVICES
Join in the fun at Takapuna Boating Club, right on Takapuna beach!
Sunday Club Days.
Courses - learn to paddle, sail, or drive a rigid inflatable boat (for on-the-water volunteers).
Fun Racing - from beginners to advanced.
Social - Paddle & Pinot evenings, and destination sails.
Free use of club boats, boards, surfskis & equipment.
Use of storage facilities available.
Many affordable membership options.
Milford: 09
Driving Miss Daisy
uckland o the vet
• ACC cont
• Pre-bookings essential
39 The Str and, Takapuna Beach, Auckland Phone: 09 489-6941 members@takapunaboating.org.nz takapunaboating.org.nz
1/32 Songwriter's chart successes initially including "Castle Element to rise in Stone" (6,9)
4/19 Bizarrely I happen to love thy song, which is by 18 (8,3,3)
10 See 15 Down
11 Sound of Pacino on stage (5)
12/14 Banks of creek held by 34 for synchronised walking (8)
13 Submarine followers may take a toll occasionally? (5)
14 See 12
17 Bergerac actor, not French, races with the French (7)
19 See 4
21 Skeletal component supplied by Prince and King (6)
23 Bottled salt and ice is most frilly (7)
25 Smart, singular, subversive? (4)
26 See 27
27/26 Ballad of ice and salmon? (4,5)
31 The mountain resides in an Ancient Egyptian soul for a Day of Brahma (5)
32 See 1
33 Broadcast cassette as a 11 action (8)
34 Small creatures have none left over for six-track recording (4,2)
1 Being unclear, quiet and showy (8)
Solution to last month's crossword
2 Software licence conceals something old (5)
3 Baghdadi lives here, with one King and one Queen (4)
5 Something dangling keeps the canal warm (7)
6 Base of bottle by mouth (4)
7 Spooner's sci-fi sabre may be used for nocturnal entertainment (9)
8 By a caller, pet's occasionally called (6)
9 Sitcom - "Toast" ? (6)
15/10/24 Before card carrying alien, homely relative going to work by 18 (1,4,2,7,6)
16 See 23
18 Speed of light in geographical features brought to life by music group (3,6)
20 Bolsters fire, inhales smoke, interrupting first half of evening meal (6,2)
22 Shapers shaped angels (7)
23/16 Behold - star maiden can resort to church show from the sixties (4,2,5)
24 See 15
28 Suggestion from president: inch to the front (5)
29 Brave at last, invader heads to island (4)
30 Words by Shakespeare loosely adapted for infamous "Carry on" film? (4)
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.
Stunning single-level weatherboard house in a quiet cul-de-sac on one of Castor Bay’s best streets. This home captures all-day sun and sits in absolute privacy on its own flat 627 m2 fully fenced freehold site, surrounded by beautiful mature easy-care gardens –sit back and take in the peace and birdsong. Enjoy the wonderful indoor-outdoor flow to the extensive decks, verandas and gardens beyond. A modern light filled open-plan kitchen with vaulted velux ceiling is at the heart of the home... an entertainer’s delight, flowing effortlessly to the outdoor dining and living area with louvred roof. A separate large living room features a gas fire for cosy warmth on winter nights, with a large bay window framing the outdoors. The spacious master bedroom with ensuite, walk-in wardrobe plus additional built-in storage sits separately, whilst down the hallway two further double bedrooms share an additional bathroom to ensure everyone is catered for. Double garage with laundry and internal access completes the picture.
